Steak 'n Shake = Blah!!

Ok, stick with this story about Steak 'n Shake for a moment...

Today is my wife's birthday. I asked her where she would like to go as a family to eat. Her response was:

We haven't been to Steak 'n Shake for 3 years. Why don't we try that?

So, why not? I'm always up for variety in my dining experiences. Well, I guess we now know why we haven't been there in 3 years. And after talking with co-workers today about dining nightmares, I was unaware I would run into my own on my wife's special day.

We ordered drinks, then food for my three kids and ourselves. I have now learned to never underestimate a kid's menu that is for "kids ages 12 and under." Here is a copy of the menu.

The waiter first tried to give us food that was for another table, then 15 minutes later they brought out ours.

My oldest daughter got the kid's salad which was a plateful with a small cup of dressing. OK, that is what we expected. She was happy with it.

Our youngest daughter got a "steakdog" and a sealed cup of applesauce. Fine.

My wife and I also got what we expected.

Then they handed my son a serving of macaroni and cheese, as well as some fries. The wife and I were a bit shocked to say the least. I believe there is more macaroni and cheese in a cheap microwavable cup you can get at the grocery store.

When we questioned the waiter, his response was that is what it is... You can order a side of macaroni for 99 cents, and it will double the size.

Well, the logic would say that a menu that was suitable for kids up to age 12 would have a proper portion size without having to order another serving, wouldn't it?

The waiter was obviously oblivious to our view and continued to ask us:

"Is there anything else I can get for you?"

Hmmm..... how about an appropriate serving of macaroni? That was all I could think of.

The only comfort anyone gave from the "rest"-aurant was when I went to pay the bill and the cashier asked how everything was.

"Well, I was a bit disappointed with the kid's serving of macaroni."

"Yea, they are small" is all the response I got as he asked me for $30 for the night's dining experience.

I guess I know why I won't think about going back for another 3 years.

Aviary - quick and easy.

I was just getting some new extensions for Google Chrome and I came across Aviary. So, I gave it a shot.

Let's back up. I started using Adobe Photoshop about 10 versions ago, and about as many years. I have been a die hard fan and user since. I've also gotten into other Adobe products and have been happy with it's cross-program integration and utilization.

I've never been a fan of online image tools. I've always seen that Photoshop can do more and I still stand by that. I just did a speed test on an 8 year old laptop (not mine) of Aviary tools using the extension through Google Chrome to do a screen capture and quick edit and I was surprised.

In about 30 seconds I was able to create text, draw arrows, and save it as a jpeg. I was doing this for document I have had a short time to produce, yet it still looks decent enough to get by.

Photoshop just lost a little bit o love from yours truly today. Don't worry, I'll be back for the elaborate needs that are just perfect for Photoshop.

Boy Scouts celebrates 100 years of leadership

Boy Scouts celebrates 100 years of leadership | The News-Sentinel - Fort Wayne IN

For me, the adventure started in 3rd Grade in Cub Scouts. I earned my Arrow of Light and crossed over into Boy Scouts the same time my good friend, Shawn Ruch did.

I continued on into Boy Scouts where I camped and canoed and loved the adventure! I became and Eagle Scout on June 6, 1994, and became distracted by high school life.

When my son was old enough to join Cub Scouts, he signed up. Shortly following, I accepted a position as a Scouting Professional with the Boy Scouts of America.

One of my favorite highlights from 2009 was being able to go with him to Cub Scout Resident Camp at Camp Chief Little Turtle in Pleasant Lake, IN. We did all the activities with his Pack, including a 5-mile hike.

Last year, I also had to meet Alvin Townley and read his books. Check out the Amazon link I've added here. Both of his books highlight Eagle Scouts and their experiences.

The values taught in Scouting can not be found in other activities. The opportunities for leadership and development cannot be found in other places either. Sports can go so far and some people become leaders because of it, but Scouting allows for all young men to get the experience.

I would like to join in the millions to say "Happy Birthday" and "Thank You!" to the BSA for all that it has done in the lives of young men and for the betterment of all of out communities. Here's to another 100 years!!