Thursday Thirteen - The "I" Edition

Today I am 60 years old. There was a time when I never thought I'd see 30, much less 60, so yay.

Since it's a big deal birthday, I am going to list 13 things I've accomplished over the last 60 years. This is actually harder for me than it sounds, because I tend to focus on the things I've done wrong, not the things I've done right. Anyway, let's see what I can come up with.

1. I chose a good man for my mate.

2. I have three college degrees, and I was an honor student.

3. I have written and published approximately 2 million words and oodles of photographs for various publications. Most of those were nonfiction articles, but I've also published poetry and a couple of short stories. I also wrote the county's official magazine for its 250th birthday.

4. I am a loyal friend. I consider my friends family.

5. I am a good sister to my brother and have worked hard to keep that relationship going.

6. I am a good daughter. I certainly could have been a lot more trouble than I was.

7. I am a good wife even if I don't like to cook or do housework. I still do it.

8. I'm a good nature photographer.

9. I'm a good aunt to my nephews and niece.

10. I'm a decent musician, playing guitar and writing songs. I can usually play Twinkle Twinkle Little Star on any instrument I pick up.

11. I do ok with computers, including using word processing programs and gaming.

12. I'm well-read and knowledgeable about a wide variety of subjects.

13. I make great fudge.

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Thursday Thirteen is played by lots of people; there is a list here if you want to read other Thursday Thirteens and/or play along. I've been playing for a while, and this is my 811th time to do a list of 13 on a Thursday. Or so sayth the Blogger counter, anyway.

Crash and Burn

Yesterday, I wheeled my grocery cart from Food Lion and as I approached my car, I hit the trunk opening.

A woman was walking by just as I hit the button, and it startled her. I called, "Sorry, I didn't realize you were so close to the car," and she said, "I thought I must've touched it or something." We laughed about it, and she climbed into her car.

I proceeded to start putting my groceries in the trunk. The woman had parked beside me and was driving a white van/SUV type vehicle. I was trying to figure out how to keep the hot rotisserie chicken away from the cold items when I heard a slight beep of a horn and then I heard, "crunch, crash, bang." I said, "Oh crap," and ducked. I turned around to see that the woman had backed right into a smaller vehicle with North Carolina plates.

They each pulled back into their parking spaces, and the woman climbed out of her car. "I just didn't see him at all," she said as she walked by me.

She said something to the man, and he somewhat loudly and angrily replied, "I don't have a job, I can't absorb this." Then he asked where he was, and she told him Botetourt County, and he wanted the police called, and wanted to know who would respond, and she again said, "Botetourt County."

I pushed my cart to the rack and as I walked back, I surveyed the damage. The car from North Carolina had taken the brunt of the blow, with the rear side being caved in. The white vehicle had scratches but was otherwise ok.

The woman was heading to her car with her cellphone in her hand. "Do you want me to stay?" I asked her. She shook her head no. Had she said yes, I would have stayed even though I didn't really see anything as I was focusing on my grocery unloading task. I didn't know her but I'm sure she was shaken. I know I would have been. Had I thought I'd been a good witness I would have stayed, but since I really didn't see anything but the aftermath, I left.

Since this occurred on private property, the police won't have done anything other than referee and ensured that insurance information was properly passed along by each party. At least there would be a paper trail.

***

The other thing that happened yesterday was something that I am occasionally confronted with, and it always makes me uncomfortable.

Someone I know asked me if I wanted to write their life story. 

For free.

I know many people are not writers, and I believe everyone has a story. But I do not want to write someone else's life story, not for free. I know they mean well, but they have no idea what kind of time that would take.

If the person had said, "I'll pay you," or mentioned anything like that - even a barter for services - I would have responded more enthusiastically. Instead, I said, "I think you should write it. Get started on it. I'll be glad to give you advice later on if you need it."

My friend said she wasn't a writer, but I said, "You should try it anyway. That's more real, more in your own voice."

Fortunately, she dropped the topic and we moved on. (I hope she doesn't read my blog.)

Many years ago, a good friend stopped talking to me after I declined to write her life story, so this is tricky. It's not something I want to lose friends over, but it's like asking a lawyer to take your case for nothing. Or asking your doctor to see you without charge. Those are extraordinary circumstances if you have to do that. Writing a life story is not an extraordinary circumstance, and writing has been how I've made my living. I have done enough volunteer work for various causes. I don't need to do free work for other people.

I remember another guy who asked me to write his life story - he had been involved, peripherally, in NASCAR - and he stopped talking to me as well when I declined. These things are not going to make any money, so offering to split the "big bucks" with me isn't going to cut it. If someone writes something, I am more than happy to read it and make suggestions for a meager amount*, but if they want copyediting or involved, in-depth work, then I need to be paid for my time.

*I charged the last person $100 to read through and make suggestions. That is way too little for what I offer, but I consider the circumstances. If you don't want to invest $100 in your creation for a read-through, then you either already know it's no good or know deep down you're not going to listen to my suggestions.

Smoke From Distant Fires

For the last month, we've had smoke from fires from Canada, and now we're getting smoke from fires in the upper eastern part of the United States. 

They make for interesting sunsets. Last night it looked like I was living on a different planet as I watched an incredibly red sunset.

He's All Grown Up

June is a big month for birthdays in my family, and today is my brother's turn.

Happy birthday, Brother!

My brother, age 8 or 9

I don't remember the day he came home, or my mother's pregnancy. I would have been two - almost three - when he was born.

He was a rascal from the start, though. My very first memory of him is this: when he started walking/crawling/moving around, he pushed a chair over to the counter, climbed up on it, and proceeded to eat an entire bottle of aspirin. 

I told my mother what I'd seen him do, and she whisked him off to the emergency room to have his stomach pumped. He was probably a year old. (I remember this because I was a hero for a day or so.)

Around the same time, a dog chomped on the leg of a very large stuffed doll that I loved, and my mother laid it next to the oven while she tended to other things. She was going to repair it. My brother, again with the chair, turned on the stove and set the doll on fire. We're lucky he didn't burn the house down.

When he was around 6, he took a pair of scissors to the hair on all of my dolls - including some old Barbies and a Midge that I wasn't supposed to play with because they'd belonged to my mother - and made them bald.

I imagine I made it difficult for him at school without meaning to - I was a straight-A student (and quiet and generally well-behaved) and he had to follow that legacy.

But those are old memories, and I want to talk about the wonderful man he has become. He raised three children - a stepson and two of his own. He runs a big company (yet still answers the phone when I call), and he is devoted to our father.

He likes to hunt and enjoys being in the woods, alone with his thoughts, I suppose. He also likes a good meal. He works very hard - too hard. He's always on the go, always doing something.

High School Senior

When my husband caught his hand in the hay baler, my brother stayed with me, brought us hamburgers when we tired of hospital food, and fixed the hot water heater for me when it broke the day I brought hubby home from the hospital.

He helped me out when husband had his ankle fused, and last summer when husband had his hip replaced. All I had to do was ask.

A few months ago, when I was having a problem, I talked to many people about it, but it was when I called him that I burst into tears and sobbed.

With his son, 1997

He's a caring fellow, and I have always loved him. So happy birthday, brother! (And yes, I know, you'll always be younger than me.)

In April 2023

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing

1. What are your plans for June?

A. Have a birthday, get a mammogram, see my doctor, work on the bookkeeping, do some writing.

2. What are your mid-year resolutions or goals?

A. I don't have any. 

3. Are you good at taking care of plants?

A. Yes.

4. What makes you feel nourished?

A. Hugs, phone calls, time alone, and chocolate.

5. Which animals do you see most in your area?

A. Deer, squirrels, turkeys, birds.

6. What books are on your summer reading list?

A. The Princess Bride, which I am reading now, Tarzan of the Apes, and any of the 100s of books on my Kindle. I would like to read a good biography of Eleanor Roosevelt. If anyone has a recommendation, please leave it in the comments.

7. What projects do you want to tackle this summer?

A. I would like to redo my office, but I don't know that I have the umph to do that at the moment.

8. Do you have any weddings, graduations, summer celebrations to attend?

A. Just birthdays in June.

9. Which summer snacks are you excited to enjoy again?

A. Watermelon.

10. How much time do you like to take for vacations?

A. We haven't had a vacation since September 2019. We generally only go away for about 5 days if we go. We have a farm to run and can't be away long.

11. How much has changed since last summer?

A. My husband has a new hip. That was a big change. He's doing great.

12. Name something that would be out of character for you.

A. Running.

13. What do you miss about winter?

A. Nothing.

14. What are your favorite free / cost effective ways to have fun?

A. Take a walk, read a book, play a video game.

15. Who do you trust most to house & pet sit?

A. This is not a service I generally have a need of, although there are folks we trust to help with the cattle should it become necessary. That said, I'd trust my brother or some of my friends with most things.

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I encourage you to visit other participants in Sunday Stealing posts and leave a comment. Cheers to all us thieves who love memes, however we come by them.

Saturday 9: The Best

Saturday 9: The Best (1991)

In memory of Tina Turner, who died on May 24, 2023.

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

 

1) In this song, Tina Turner sings that she can think of no better place to be than her lover's arms. Since we're entering summer vacation season, let's switch it to: What's the best place you've ever traveled to?

A. We have had lovely vacations in Charleston, SC, Williamsburg, VA, and Myrtle Beach, SC. However, the trip I took to Madrid and Paris when I was a junior in high school is hard to beat, even if it was so long ago, I barely remember much of it now. I loved Paris. I could live there, if I had to move to a city.

2) Songwriters Holly Knight and Desmond Child originally offered this song to English pop singer Paul Young. He declined it. Can you think of a time when you said "no" when "yes" might have been a better answer?

A. One of the stupidest things I ever did was leave a law firm in 1984. I'd only been there a little over a year and had been promised a raise in March. When it didn't come, I went looking for another job. I should have stayed where I was and not worried about the raise (which likely would have come eventually). I should have not said, "No, you're not going back on your word," and left (which is what I did). I have a thing about people breaking promises. Once someone says they're going to do something and then they don't do it, I lose all trust in them. It's a terrible way to go through life and I've tried hard to overcome that, but it still rears its ugly head as a niggle when someone says they will do something and then they do not. I try not to let it ruin relationships or cause me to do things rashly now, though. I learned that lesson.

3) Tina Turner was born in Nutbush, TN. In 1973 she recorded a song about it called "Nutbush City Limits." Is there a song about your hometown?

A. Not that I am aware of. However, Fincastle is the location of the first bluegrass festival ever. It took place in 1965. 

4) It was at Nutbush's Spring Hill Baptist Church that very young Tina began singing with the choir. She credited those early performances with giving her confidence in front of a crowd. Are you comfortable with public speaking? 

A. I am not.

5) When she was a teen, her mom relocated the family to St. Louis. It was here that Tina played on the high school basketball team. Can you make a free throw?

A. Maybe. I haven't tried in at least 45 years. I'd probably have to do it granny style.

 

6) Tina met her second husband, Erwin Bach, at the airport. A record exec, Erwin went to Heathrow to meet her flight and help her prepare for her London appearances. The last time you were at the airport, were you a traveler or were you meeting or dropping someone off?

A. I would have been picking up someone.

 

7) In 1991, the year this record was released, Queen lead singer Freddie Mercury died. What's your favorite Queen song?

A. Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

 

8) Also in 1991, Disney's Beauty and the Beast became the first animated movie to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. What's your favorite Disney movie?

A. I don't really have one, but I'll go with either the animated version of Aladdin or Finding Nemo.

9) Random question: What's your perfect day, weatherwise?

A. Sunny, with blue skies, temperature about 72 degrees with a very mild breeze occasionally. And no pollen.

__________

I encourage you to visit other participants in Sunday Stealing posts and leave a comment. Cheers to all us thieves who love memes, however we come by them.

He's My Number One

Many happy returns to my beloved, who today celebrates his birthday.

We are celebrating by having fertilizer put on the hayfields this afternoon.

Tomorrow night we will celebrate more with hamburgers and apple pie (his request).

I gave him tools this morning for a present, along with a card.

So happy birthday to my fellow, one of the good ones, and he's all mine!

Bing Image. Tractor Birthday Cake.

An Outing

The evening took us away from our house and to an event hall filled with people, many of whom we knew.

The occasion was the celebration of a friend's 25th year in business. She is a massage therapist (with emphasis on the therapist), and now about 64 years old. I saw her for many years, and sent my husband to see her, and gave gift certificates to friends and family to enjoy her services (though I suspect most of those went unused, stuffed in some drawer).

It is unusual for a massage therapist to last so long; they generally wear out, from what I understand. Bing says the average career of a massage therapist is 5 to 8 years. The fact that Karen has worked for long - and kept herself in shape so that she was able to do it - was indeed something to celebrate. Giving a massage is hard work.

Despite the fact that we have 33,000 people in our county, it's really a small community. The event was held at the Kyle House, once known as Bolton's Store, in the county seat. The building is an events venue, and there were easily 50 plus people there when we arrived.

Since the most public places I have been since 2019 are grocery stores, this was a bit much for me; the sweet, cloying scent of perfumes, powders, and colognes, so many people in a smaller space than a massive market.

But I had accepted the invitation knowing that I am trying to claw my way back to civilization, having become almost - but not quite - agoraphobic during the pandemic, seldom leaving the house, only venturing out to purchase food. As for other items, let's just say the UPS man and I are on a first-name basis.

So, this was a personal test, which I passed. I am grateful that I went, happy to have seen so many familiar faces after so many years of seeing only scowls in the supermarket. These people were happy, caring on pleasant conversations, and enjoying themselves.

The people I knew included my physical therapist, whom I hadn't seen since 2019. She suffocated me in an embracing and long hug the moment I walked in the door. I stiffened at first, having determined previously that I didn't want physical contact, but she was so sincere, and I like her so much that it was only a moment of light panic, and then I hugged her back with similar intensity. 

I also saw a former county supervisor, whom I'd really enjoyed working with and was sorry to see retire many years ago, a cousin who said she wants to meet for coffee, my dear friend Leslie (another hug) and her brother, who informed us he had retired as a surveyor that very day, (I also called him by another brother's name, oops), and an ex-husband of another dear friend. I also greeted a former employer and his wife, a contractor and his wife, both of whom have known my husband most of his life, a former high school pal, a former firefighter's wife, and of course Karen, who was throwing herself this bash.

I had a couple of chicken salad sandwiches and a cookie, along with water. A pile of articles about Karen sat on the end of one table, and I only had to flip over a page before I saw my byline, again and again. I've written so much about this county and its people over the last 30 years. Of course I'd written about Karen. In fact, I wrote the first article about Karen's business, I think.

My former employer (a lawyer then, retired now) saw one of the articles and then chased me down to show me. "Here's your name," he said, thrusting the story at me. He pointed it out to someone I didn't know. "She wrote this."

Yes, I wrote that. It was nice to know it meant something to someone, or several someones, even though it was years old.

No one had on masks, including me. Everyone is over that, although I still wear one when I go pick up drugs at the drug counter. If there are going to be germs anywhere, it's in there. I had a mask in my pocket, but I didn't put it on (I admit it was tempting).

Almost everyone was dressed up, in nice work clothes or church clothes, including us (although I had on my sneakers because I can't get my orthotic in any other shoe). I enjoyed myself. My husband enjoyed it. We left after an hour, with things still going full swing, when I finally felt the perfumes and smells seeping into my lungs and felt an asthmatic wheeze coming on.

I guess I'm coming out into the world again.

Thursday Thirteen #810*

Thirteen Reasons to raise the national debt ceiling:

1. Economic Stability: Raising the debt ceiling ensures that the government can continue paying its bills and obligations, thus maintaining economic stability. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could result in a government shutdown, default on debt payments, and a severe financial crisis.

Bing generated.

2. Avoid a Government Shutdown: Raising the debt ceiling prevents a potential government shutdown, which can have detrimental effects on essential services, government operations, and public trust in the functioning of the government. Government services include things like keeping up the federal highways, social assistance programs (SNAP, etc.), the federal court system, environmental protections, all of the workers who make up the government to keep things running (air traffic controllers, for example), federal recreational services such as the National Parks, the Smithsonian, etc., and research for new technologies, such as funding for research for various diseases as well as NASA, which has brought many technological advances to humanity.

3. Preserving Creditworthiness: By raising the debt ceiling, the government maintains its ability to borrow money and meet its financial obligations. This helps preserve the country's creditworthiness and prevents a downgrade in its credit rating, which would increase borrowing costs for the government and potentially the entire world economy.

4. Supporting Social Programs: Raising the debt ceiling ensures that critical social programs, such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, continue to receive funding. These programs provide vital support to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals.

Bing Image

5. Investing in Infrastructure: Raising the debt ceiling can enable the government to fund infrastructure projects that create jobs, improve transportation systems, enhance public facilities, and stimulate economic growth. Investing in infrastructure is crucial for long-term economic competitiveness and development.

6. Emergency Funding: Raising the debt ceiling allows the government to respond effectively to unexpected emergencies, such as natural disasters, public health crises, or security threats. It ensures that necessary resources are available to mitigate the impact of these crises and protect citizens.

7. National Defense: The debt ceiling increase can ensure adequate funding for national defense, including the military, intelligence agencies, and veterans' programs. Maintaining a strong defense is essential for safeguarding national security interests and protecting the country from external threats.

8. Debt Refinancing: Raising the debt ceiling provides the opportunity to refinance existing debt at favorable interest rates. This can lead to cost savings for the government, freeing up resources for other critical priorities or reducing the overall burden of interest payments.

9. Economic Stimulus: Raising the debt ceiling allows the government to implement fiscal stimulus measures during economic downturns. Increased spending on public projects, tax cuts, or targeted subsidies can boost economic activity, create jobs, and help accelerate economic recovery.

10. Maintaining Government Operations: Raising the debt ceiling ensures that government agencies and departments can continue their operations without disruption. It enables the hiring and payment of federal employees, maintenance of public facilities, and delivery of essential services to the public.

Bing Image

11. Research and Innovation: Increased debt ceiling capacity can support investments in scientific research, technological innovation, and development of new industries. These investments lay the groundwork for future economic growth, job creation, and competitiveness in the global market.

12. Education and Workforce Development: Raising the debt ceiling allows for investments in education and workforce development programs. These initiatives can enhance the skills of the workforce, improve access to quality education, and ensure that the country remains globally competitive.

13. Social Safety Nets: Raising the debt ceiling enables the government to continue providing social safety net programs, such as unemployment benefits and food assistance, to those in need. These programs help mitigate the impacts of economic hardships and provide a basic level of support for individuals and families facing financial difficulties.

ChatGPT assisted with this list.

Bing AI created the images.

*I thought last week was #810 but the blogger counter says it was 809. I have no idea, I just go by what the blog label counter says. Maybe I misread it last week.

__________________

Thursday Thirteen is played by lots of people; there is a list here if you want to read other Thursday Thirteens and/or play along. I've been playing for a while, and this is my 810th time to do a list of 13 on a Thursday. Or so sayth the Blogger counter, anyway.

I Want Pockets

Why do they make women's pants without pockets?

I bet there isn't a pair of men's dress pants anywhere that doesn't have pockets, yet I have trouble finding pants with pockets. Especially at my size.

Women need pockets too. It's a place to put a tissue. Or your car keys. Or your hand.

No pocket in my pants means I have to carry to some kind of purse or pocketbook. I generally do anyway, but I carry a much larger one than I would have to if my pants all had pockets.

My pocketbook has things in it like my inhaler, tissues, ink pens, Tylenol, Dramamine, and the other usual things one must have, like a driver's license and a credit card. I know wallets are lifted from men's pockets, but it seems safer to carry a wallet in a pocket than it does throw a big honkin' purse over your shoulder.

Not only that, but the dress pants I have on today have FAKE pockets. If they're going to all the trouble to sew in a line that looks like a pocket, why not make an actual pocket? What's the point of a fake pocket?

Give me pockets in my pants!

Roy G Biv

"How will the kids learn their colors?" That was my husband's reaction as we watched a local news story about a parent who objected to a rainbow motif in a classroom.

He, like me, remembers learning our colors via the rainbow and the familiar acronym of Roy G Biv. That's red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet, for the uninitiated.

 Bing generated image.

Fascism has come to the Roanoke Valley dressed up as "concern for the children," as book banners and school patrols go after what they consider items and persons who "groom" or "indoctrinate" children, ostensibly trying to "turn" young people into homosexuals or transgenders or whomever it is these folks are afraid of.

Ban one book, and where does it end? Is the next one to go some beloved story like Little Women, which is, after all, about strong young girls (and we can't have that). Remove one rainbow, and the next thing to go will be unicorns and leprechauns, I suppose. And why do these people - some of whom do not even have children - get to say what can and can't be happening in a library, a classroom, or any other place? And if they're so hellbent on protecting children, where were they when some were murdered this weekend by gunfire in Florida? Are they protesting for gun control? No. They seem pretty content with letting a child bleed out in the street.

We watched the first two hours of FDR on the History channel last night, and I highly recommend it. We are taping the remainder of the series and will watch it before the week runs out, I expect.

It really brings home the issue of fascism, which I consider any effort to ban a book to be, so I will end with this rather long quote that I am borrowing from Heather Cox Richardson, who borrowed it from an Army pamphlet from 1945. I looked up the original but it's easier to copy and paste. Yes, I can be lazy.

Keep this in mind and then determine who is really a Democrat, a Republican, and a Fascist. I know what I think. I think the people who keep calling Republicans Rinos are really the fascists. Real Republicans know better and are trying to keep our Republic strong. Anyway, this is worth the read:

Fascism, the U.S. government document explained, “is government by the few and for the few. The objective is seizure and control of the economic, political, social, and cultural life of the state.” “The people run democratic governments, but fascist governments run the people.”

“The basic principles of democracy stand in the way of their desires; hence—democracy must go! Anyone who is not a member of their inner gang has to do what he’s told. They permit no civil liberties, no equality before the law.” “Fascism treats women as mere breeders. ‘Children, kitchen, and the church,’ was the Nazi slogan for women,” the pamphlet said.

Fascists “make their own rules and change them when they choose…. They maintain themselves in power by use of force combined with propaganda based on primitive ideas of ‘blood’ and ‘race,’ by skillful manipulation of fear and hate, and by false promise of security. The propaganda glorifies war and insists it is smart and ‘realistic’ to be pitiless and violent.”

Fascists understood that “the fundamental principle of democracy—faith in the common sense of the common people—was the direct opposite of the fascist principle of rule by the elite few,” it explained, “[s]o they fought democracy…. They played political, religious, social, and economic groups against each other and seized power while these groups struggled.”

Americans should not be fooled into thinking that fascism could not come to America, the pamphlet warned; after all, “[w]e once laughed Hitler off as a harmless little clown with a funny mustache.” And indeed, the U.S. had experienced “sorry instances of mob sadism, lynchings, vigilantism, terror, and suppression of civil liberties. We have had our hooded gangs, Black Legions, Silver Shirts, and racial and religious bigots. All of them, in the name of Americanism, have used undemocratic methods and doctrines which…can be properly identified as ‘fascist.’”

The War Department thought it was important for Americans to understand the tactics fascists would use to take power in the United States. They would try to gain power “under the guise of ‘super-patriotism’ and ‘super-Americanism.’” And they would use three techniques:

First, they would pit religious, racial, and economic groups against one another to break down national unity. Part of that effort to divide and conquer would be a “well-planned ‘hate campaign’ against minority races, religions, and other groups.”

Second, they would deny any need for international cooperation, because that would fly in the face of their insistence that their supporters were better than everyone else. “In place of international cooperation, the fascists seek to substitute a perverted sort of ultra-nationalism which tells their people that they are the only people in the world who count. With this goes hatred and suspicion toward the people of all other nations.”

Third, fascists would insist that “the world has but two choices—either fascism or communism, and they label as ‘communists’ everyone who refuses to support them.” (Emphasis mine)

It is “vitally important” to learn to spot native fascists, the government said, “even though they adopt names and slogans with popular appeal, drape themselves with the American flag, and attempt to carry out their program in the name of the democracy they are trying to destroy.”

The only way to stop the rise of fascism in the United States, the document said, “is by making our democracy work and by actively cooperating to preserve world peace and security.” In the midst of the insecurity of the modern world, the hatred at the root of fascism “fulfills a triple mission.” By dividing people, it weakens democracy. “By getting men to hate rather than to think,” it prevents them “from seeking the real cause and a democratic solution to the problem.” By falsely promising prosperity, it lures people to embrace its security.        -- Heather Cox Richardson

Which do you want to be? The book burner or the book saver? The person who admires rainbows or the one who denigrates them because of their own personal insecurities and hang-ups? Just who do the children need to be saved from? 

I really have to wonder.

 

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing

1. Do you go in at a fast-food place or just hit the drive through?

A. We generally use the drive through, especially since the pandemic.

2. Have you ever lost anything down a toilet? 

A. Not that I recall. If I did, it must not have been important.

3. Do you have a dog?

A. Not anymore. I had a dog for 17 years, but she died in 2001, and I was so heartbroken that I did not get another. Besides, I am highly allergic to animals, and she had to stay outside unless it was really cold, at which point I brought her in the garage (fortunately she was half Eskimo Spitz and loved the cold). I didn't think it would be fair to an animal to bring it to live with me.

4. Ever go camping?

A. Not as an adult. My father took us camping when I was quite young. I barely remember it. Mostly I remember that my mother hated it.

5. Have you met anyone famous?

A. I have met a lot of politicians who could be considered famous. This was due to my work. I met all of Virginia's governors from Douglas Wilder through Bob McDonnell. I am on a first-name basis with my state House of Delegates representative. I know many local news reporters who would be considered "famous" around here. I have also met famous writers like Lee Smith, Sharon Olds, Beth Macy (I went to school with her), Jill McCorkle, and others. But no actors.

6. Any plans today?

A. It is supposed to rain all day, so maybe I will simply have a lazy day. I have a few letters I need to write, and I should do bookkeeping for the farm, but we'll see how it goes.

7. Are you happy?

A. I think "happy" is overrated.

8. Where are you right now?

A. In my office in my house in a county in the state of Virginia, USA, on the continent of North America.

9. Biggest annoyance in your life right now?

A. My hair. I have been seeing the same person for several years now, and while I like her, she cannot cut my hair. This last cut was a final straw. It's the shortest it's ever been and needs to grow out quite a bit, at which point I will return to seeing if I can find someone who listens and doesn't scalp me.

10. Last song listened to?

A. Carry On My Wayward Son, by Kansas.

11. Last movie you saw?

A. We watched part of Star Trek: Into the Darkness on Friday night but did not watch the entire movie. I have never seen it in its entirety even though I like Star Trek.

12. Are you allergic to anything?

A. Pollen of all types, animal dander, dust, hay, various medicines, black pepper, milk, strawberries, etc. Some of the foods I can tolerate in moderation.

13. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time?

A. A pair of Apex sneakers (white) which are quite expensive, but few shoes can accommodate the special orthotic insert I have to wear in my right shoe.

14. What do you think of when you think of Australia?

A. Kangaroos.

15. Do you use smiley faces on the computer a lot?

A. No, I don't think I do. I'm not an emoji fan.

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I encourage you to visit other participants in Sunday Stealing posts and leave a comment. Cheers to all us thieves who love memes, however we come by them.

Saturday 9: Some Gave All

Saturday 9: Some Gave All (1992)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

Memorial Day is the federal holiday designated to honor American service people who died in battle.

1) Here at Saturday 9, we regard everyone who served -- veterans and active military -- as heroes. Have you, or has anyone in your family, worn the uniform of our armed forces? We want to hear about them.

A. Many members of my family have served. My father and his brothers, and several of my mother's brothers, would be my closest family members. My grandfather on my father's side served in World War II. The only story I remember my father telling about his time in the service (he was in Korea, after the fighting but during the mop-up and occupation, I think), was one day he was serving potatoes in the chow line, and he looked down and saw his brother coming through. So, he pulled down his hat, and when his brother got to him, he only gave him a spoonful of potatoes. When Uncle Jerry said, "Hey, I want more!" my father looked up and said, "Go to hell" or something like that, and Uncle Jerry sprang over the chow line to hug my dad. Obviously, they were serving at the same time.

2) Memorial Day has its own flag etiquette. In the morning, the American flag should be flown at half staff in memory of those we have lost. Then, at noon, it should be raised briskly to full staff, in honor of all who have served. Where is the nearest flag flying from where you sit right now?

A. Probably in downtown Fincastle, at the county courthouse, although there may be neighbors who have flags up that I cannot see. So many houses around here sit far back from the road and if you're driving it's hard to take note of little details like that.

3) Since 1988, motorcycle riders have participated in Rolling Thunder. In events all over the country, including Washington DC, bikers "Roll Together" to draw attention to service members still missing and raise awareness of mental health issues our veterans cope with each day. When have you most recently ridden a motorcycle? A scooter? A bicycle?

A. It's been a very long time for any of those. Thirty years, at least, unless you want to count the recumbent bike I used for exercise prior to 2013.

4) This week's song is the title track of Billy Ray Cyrus' best-selling album. Named for this patriotic song, the album also included Billy Ray's signature song, "Achy Breaky Heart." "Achy Breaky Heart" is a popular choice on karaoke nights. Do you know it well enough to sing along?

A. No. 

5) Sandy Kane, the hero of "Some Gave All," is based on a real Vietnam vet Billy Ray Cyrus met and spoke to about his sacrifice for his country. Can you think of another song based on a real person?

A. No. But I'll go with Ode to Billy Jo or Harper Valley PTA. I don't know if they were real people, though.

6) Memorial Day is the traditional kick off of the summer season. Have you packed away your winter clothes yet?

A. I don't pack my clothes away. They are all mixed together and that's the way they stay.

7) As you answer these questions, is there a fan or an air conditioner cooling your room?

A. Not in the room. The air conditioner for the entire house (heat pump) is on, but not running. It's not hot enough outside yet for it to turn on.

8) Memorial Day is also a holiday for retailers. Ads promise great prices on everything from grills to lawn decorations to high tech gear and gadgets. Will you be shopping any sales this weekend?

A. I don't think so.

9) Random question: When is the last time you felt like a kid?

A. When I was a kid. Now, if you mean when was the last time you were in the presence of a parent, and he gave you the stink eye like you'd done something wrong even when you hadn't, like he's always done, then that was Wednesday.

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I encourage you to visit other participants in Sunday Stealing posts and leave a comment. Cheers to all us thieves who love memes, however we come by them.

I Stand With Libraries

As of this posting, my county library has received formal reconsideration requests (requests to remove) to review 13 titles. Here are some stats:

# titles challenged that Botetourt County Library does not own: 48
# titles challenged that Botetourt County Library owns: 13
# citizens challenging titles: 3
1 citizen requested a review of 12 titles
2 citizens requested a review of 1 title
# challenged titles any of the requestors said they read/viewed: 1
# times 13 challenged titles have been checked out without complaint: 278
Total purchase cost of all Botetourt-owned copies of all 13 challenged titles: $289
Estimated time/labor cost to review these 13 titles: $11,409
# years the 13 challenged titles have been on library shelves: range from 6 months to 13 years
% 13 challenged titles added to the collection before 2020: 75%

https://www.botetourtva.gov/817/BOCO-Facts-4-U

So, we're going to spend $11,500 in taxpayer dollars to review $300 worth of books because 3 people object to different lifestyles. I hope they're proud of themselves.

Thursday Thirteen #810

In a few weeks, I am turning 60 years old. Here are 13 pieces of advice for someone turning 60 years old:

1. Embrace your age: Turning 60 is a milestone, so embrace it and appreciate the wisdom and experiences that come with it.

2. Take care of your health: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular health check-ups can go a long way in maintaining good health.

3. Stay socially connected: Cultivate meaningful relationships with family, friends, and the community. Social connections contribute to overall happiness and well-being.

4. Pursue your passions: Explore new hobbies, interests, or activities that bring you joy. Use this time to indulge in activities that you may not have had time for earlier in life.

5. Plan for retirement: Evaluate your financial situation and consider retirement planning. Ensure you have a solid plan in place for a comfortable and secure retirement.

6. Travel and explore: Take the opportunity to travel and explore new places. Experiencing different cultures and landscapes can be enriching and fulfilling.

7. Maintain a positive mindset: Cultivate a positive attitude towards life. Focus on gratitude, mindfulness, and finding joy in the present moment.

8. Volunteer and give back: Consider volunteering for a cause that resonates with you. Giving back to society can be immensely rewarding and provide a sense of purpose.

9. Continuously learn: Never stop learning. Engage in lifelong learning through reading, taking courses, or acquiring new skills. It keeps your mind sharp and opens up new possibilities.

10. Reflect and set goals: Take time to reflect on your past achievements and experiences. Set new goals and aspirations for the future. Having a sense of purpose can provide motivation and fulfillment.

11. Take time for self-care: Prioritize self-care and relaxation. Engage in activities that help you unwind and recharge, such as meditation, yoga, or enjoying hobbies.

12. Spend quality time with loved ones: Cherish your time with family and friends. Create meaningful memories and strengthen your relationships by spending quality time together.

13. Embrace change: Life is ever-changing, and being open to new experiences and adapting to change is important. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and remain flexible in your outlook.

*ChatGPT assisted with this list.

Artwork from free photos from Dreamstime

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Thursday Thirteen is played by lots of people; there is a list here if you want to read other Thursday Thirteens and/or play along. I've been playing for a while, and this is my 810th time to do a list of 13 on a Thursday. Or so sayth the Blogger counter, anyway.

Flowers