Yes, it has been that kind of year. I started this blog and have met and made many new friends. That’s the smiley face.
Then Digital Doom struck. First, it was an insidious infection that I picked up from an infected blog — I’m not sure which one. I doubt that the blog owner was aware of the infection. This in turn compromised the multiple Websites that I maintain for my ISP, church and personal use. This infection had made it past my defenses somehow. Although my blog was flagged for a while, I downloaded the html code and scanned it and there was no problem, unlike the Websites.
In the end I started my computer and entered, “Format c:” I had a complete backup of my system so it was only hours of effort to restore things. I had to reset all of my passwords, clean all of the Websites and start all over again.
I don’t recommend products, but do keep your protection software up-to-date. Please.
Digital Doom also struck as a couple of blogger friends have disappeared from the scene this year. One of them reappeared, but I still miss Reggie Girl from Georgia.
This was the main hub for my Internet Service Provider, Reliable Internet, LLC. It sat proudly above the local grain elevator. Then Digital Doom struck.
In a tragic construction accident a weld broke on a new tube being lifted in place on this “leg.” It struck the guys that support the structure. Two men were thrown to the ground. One from 30 feet and he has recovered from his fall. The other from 120 feet — up at the top. He survived and is recovering.
All the Reliable Internet antennas were destroyed. Within hours, replacement antennas and other equipment were on order for rush delivery. A new, taller, tower was erected and within days the hub was back in action. Brian, who owns and operates Reliable Internet got little rest during that time, but many of his friends and family members came forward to help.
I got through those days by borrowing a dial-up connection. It made me realize how much I hate dial-up.
Personal
I saw the practitioner at the doctor’s office yesterday. She confirmed that I have a full blown urinary tract infection. I’m on an antibiotic and hope to shake this soon. I’m sick tired of feeling sick and tired.
It’s been hard to keep up with all the blog stuff. So, if I’ve failed to drop back on you EC participants, please forgive me. I’m doing what I can.
Sylvia is almost back to normal she still has a cough, but it has abated a lot today. She joins me in thanking all of you for yours prayers on our behalf.
Are you hoping for a better year in 2010? I am!
Well, I guess digital doom, as annoying as it is, is probably minor on the scale of problems, right? You've got you health (for the most part these days) and a lovely family, Chuck. Oh! And a new kitten! I say that is one heck of a good year, pally.
I hope that 2010 brings you better health. That is of the utmost importance. My 2009 was a rollercoaster for many reasons. I never liked rollercoasters so I/m hoping for a more calm and tranquil new year.
Hey, personal health comes before anything. Infections can really sap you as your body tries to fight. I hope you are back to health very soon. Sylvia too.
Happy New Year.
Sounds like you have been having a hard time. Everyone is sick this year. We are usually pretty good around here. Not this year. We are taking turns. Now Karen is sick. She has infected ears and sinuses.
I hope 2010 is better for all of us.
Happy New Year
May 2010 be a better year for Chuck and Sylvia along their Secondary Roads.
Congrats on the blogoversary. I guess I found you after that internet infection. Hope you conquer the personal one before the antibiotics knock out all your personal necessary fauna. Interesting place for an antenna. Ours is on the top of a radio tower. Not everyone locally can get the wireless connection, but if one's roof can speak to the radio tower then it works. We are on a hill, and were thus RESCUED from dial-up.
I imagine you get a big kick out of the new NetZero ads that promise broadband users a substantial savings if they sign up for their dial-up service. By the way, I wonder if Midnight might've had something to do with your "infection?"