EASTERN EXPOSURE (June 16/187)

I didn't want to dwell on it, but hard to ignore...

BOOM Well, the weekend experienced a big boom heard around the world. No, not the fireworks at Yankee Doodle days downtown, but "big, beautiful bunker busting" bombs on a country that has been technically fighting with one country Israel. Guess we can make that two. Time will tell how this shakes out, but I much prefer when we talk softly and carry the big stick rather than personally sticking the stick in the eye first. Or working through and arming our proxies rather than sending planes marked with ye old stars and stripes-same objective, but not "technically" attacking a country without provocation. Yes, Iran with the a-bomb has been a threat, but military secrets and weapons are fleeting and other countries (read Russia, China, etc) will be happy to replace what has been lost. With the added advantage of saying we started it. Who knows-stay tuned. Or was it just a way for two unpopular leaders to hogtie us to whatever atrocity they wish to pursue to stay in power?

Have to hand it to marmie for keeping the secret as this had to have been organized over several weeks. Considering how much military expertise, experience and talent has been eliminated under the Administration and who his closest advisors are, I am impressed they pulled it off. I pray for our soldiers in the field who will take the first casualties. I am sure our top-drawer homeland security folks will keep us safe here in the States, however. While legitimate outcry is mostly shushed by congress we are reminded Obama took much heat for the Libya bombing and the boys passed a resolution (War Powers) I believe, that no you can't start a war without our okie doke. But of course, rules only apply to dems. I am not optimistic that this will end well when the best scenario is boots on the ground. Because when you punch someone in the nose and then say now make peace, you might get some pushback. 

Wondering how the magats are going to respond to "no war charlie and I am the candidate of peace". By eliminating DEI meaning women and African Americans, transgender and deporting other cannon fodder the straight white boys better be ready to hit the desert for this new conflict. Are bone spurs inherited?

Speaking of family if the trump boys new phone sales go well, I guess once again it proves the red hats support anything no matter what. Phones, btw, that have to be made in China as we don't have the ability to make them here lol. Also, AFTER you send your credit card info, you get a message that the service is not yet available, but you get the nifty T1 golden paperweight to carry around and impress your friends. I swear he could sell gold painted turds and they would line up to buy. 

Just a thought -- you don't have to accept or agree with anyone you don't want to; what you can't do is make their life miserable or terrorize them. But the proud boys with their masks and guns probably don't agree. How much you want to bet these masked dudes grabbing citizens off the streets were the ones refusing to wear covid masks. "I can't breathe" works on so many levels. Witnessing the open racism  during these "street grabs" if you are of the brown persuasion, I would suggest you start carrying your passport around with you. 

BEFORE THE WAR In other news, we got the old convertible up and running last week. She asked for and got a new battery installed Yay. But the AC wasn't working, not Yay. Decided to try driving it back to be worked on in Lansing. The drive was fine and hot until oh yeah, I suddenly remember you have to push in the little snowflake symbol under the controls to turn the AC on 😣duhh. Good news as I want to drive her in a parade on the 4th. I am a veteran at parade driving so have mastered the tap, tap, tap on the brake so you don't run over the candidate or kids darting into the street. Kind of kills the mood. Speaking of driving, on a trip to Howell last week I didn't realize how bad things have gotten since I used to drive for work all the time. All trucks and distracted drivers, but everyone's exceeding the speed limit just fine. More skill would be appreciated, however. Praying for, Peace out....💓💨💙

KINGS/FELONS/JELLYFISH? (June 16/188)

"NO KING'S" day went beautifully and was well-attended around the country. Birthday bash for marmie, not so much depending on who's reporting it of course. Although I have to admit an 80-year old tank squeaking down the road to a crowd in silence watching overheated soldiers hanging their heads out the gun ports to get some air might have been worth the price of admission. Course the birthday boy has had a rough week, with his public break-up with muskie (who came crawling back) the ramp-up of the Iran-Israel hostilities, further losses in Court, millions of Americans protesting against him on his birthday, etc etc. You know the usual. 

IDLE THOUGHTS Jewish laser conspiracy monger mgt says "waving a confederate flag doesn't make me a racist". Yet only a racist would wave a confederate flag. She was one of the few repugs who accepted an invite to the glorify marmie parade. Most went home for the weekend, but I don't think it was to hold town halls. When your aid and abet partners don't want to be seen at your "party" what does that say about you?

Don't ever remember hearing daily reports on the number of measles cases since the '50's due to the fact that we DID NOT have measles outbreaks to report as we had pretty much eradicated the disease. Until the vacc fanatics started using opinion over science and put a drug addict worm brain non-doctor/scientist in charge. Problem, of course, is insurance will not cover the shots if the government does not support it. Hence the outbreak. Well, we're all gonna die of something right so let's whip up old diseases and take them for a spin. See how well stupidity works? 

Multi-million-dollar parade occurs ostensibly to celebrate the armed forces with a backdrop of 1000s of federal and civil servants fired (including the Pentagon and Veteran's Administration) and slashing of Medicaid and food allowances for the poor. Yay America.  The same Soldiers that the orange guy calls suckers while refusing to pose with any overweight or disabled ones at a recent "rally". 

Odd that ICE is arresting immigrants at their JOBS or in COURT. I doubt that the "criminals" we are targeting would be dumb enough to have jobs and pay taxes and go to court per immigration rules. But thanks, stevie mitler who told ICE to pursue them at legitimate venues like that to "get the numbers up". Who abused him as a baby 'cause the dude has some real personality issues no doubt related to inadequate potty training as he gets his knickers in a bind at every interview. Love is fragile but hate grows exponentially. If you think the idle white boys are going to pick up on the farm, hospitality industry and retail jobs that are being covered by these folks, I have a bridge in Brooklyn as they say. Unless the measles kills them all first of course. Natural selection is a thing. 

Trying to link Governor Waltz with the Minnestoa assassin is the latest fake outrage from the magats in charge. It was DEMs who were targeted you wretched brain farts. I believe this was your agenda.

LIFE WITH JP Spent a couple of days at the lake with the boy as he wanted to spend his first week off school fishing. He had to help Grandpa change the oil on the boat first, but they did do a little night fishing the first night hooking a large walleye. If you're a serious fish-person, early morning and late night is the game plan. It takes a few tries, but he does get up in a relatively good mood. Also had time to hit the State park to swim. He parked himself half in the water half on the beach after I sprayed him down with sunscreen. I, of course, stay back in the trees as pure sun is poison to me (like all the Sweet girls actually). As he kept his "cool" sunglasses on, I thought he was discretely eyeballing the young lady with the orange bathing suit, but he claims he was napping. He's a good grandson though. As he blends in as one of the bodiless heads in the water, he will see me looking and waves his hands to let me know he's not resting on the bottom.

He's full of questions so we try not to lie too much, lol. At one point I mentioned that I was a teacher in my job. He said you were a teacher? Not at school with kids but creating programs and training and teaching adult workers. "Trying to get them to do things they don't want to do". That's just like school he countered. The kids never want to do what the teacher asks them to do. It starts young I guess.

His general M.O. is to combine his wrap-around sunglasses, gelled hair and a teen-age swagger as he says it looks cool. Unfortunately, the ultimate cold water was thrown as he got asked twice at restaurants if he needed a children's menu. I keep telling him he'll appreciate looking younger...some day. He makes up for the insult by telling semi-adult jokes to the waitstaff.  

 The 2007 Pontiac G6 convertible is the lake car. I told JP he could have it when he's 16, but not sure it's going to make it. It kept going dead overnight. Especially aggravating as I need to drive it when we are getting the boat in and out of the water. Commandeered the neighbor to drive the trailer over to the launch site where he was eager to back it into the water, as he hadn't done it in years. That's an opt-out comment for me, but after four tries he made it. I think it's a guy thing.  I have massive fear of brakes failing or taking the dock out. Mostly don't want to look dumb as you will hear it from onlookers especially as a woman.  Peace out.....💚   💛💙

CAT FIGHTS (June 9/189)

WEEKLY RANT As I pull all the stops to pay off the Anderson bill (one year same as cash) I will admit the windows do keep out the street noise-including those pesky little sirens that warn of impending disaster. The creditor that Anderson uses charges an exorbitant amount of interest to the unwary, hence the mandate to pay it off before its time. At what point is it called usury? They also start charging interest a month before the first bill is due-also tricky tactics.  Anyone who knows me well, knows I have the assets, I just don't like to pay before it's time. And I never do interest. Financial discipline has its perks.

Speaking of hidden talents. Due to my Mother's influence, I also know "what" constitutes cleaning a room, I just don't want to do it. Hence the housekeeping crew once a month for bigger jobs who are due tomorrow which prompts my straightening up of general areas to keep them focused on the big stuff. But with my new eagle eyes, the things they don't do drive me crazy. Who doesn't dust the top of things, clean under the soap dish, clean behind the toilet (and the bottom of the toilet seat btw) but my shelf of knick-knacks gets a personalized dusting every time. Why not dust the ceiling fan blades as meticulously?  And I won't even go into the nicks on my sensitive stove and dining room breakfront finishes. I believe their motto is everything as fast as possible, damage be damned. But my shower stalls and floors get washed so that's the trade-off. Though my criticisms would prompt the question of "I'd rather do it myself" one of the realities of progressive arthritis is the limited amount of physical energy you have in a day which goes downhill as the day goes on and activity increases. That's why I'm a morning person LOL. 

DONE GONE ROGUE Two middle-school girls are having a hissy fit and though we hate to be juvenile, we're loving it. Now marmie's threatening consequences if muscilage does anything for democrats. Who's winning? Up for debate. Who's losing? Republicans backing the wrong horse....again. Interesting to attack the richest man in the world who has to be a shred brighter than his foe. Stay tuned. 

Meanwhile the orange man has brought the army to town-national guard and marines on alert. Right out of the 2025 project playbook. Incite a riot (since the LAPD said they were handling it fine) then escalate it. Don't take the bait California. And his weird ass command that protesters do not wear masks; when ironically it seems like we need to strip the combat gear and masks off the J-6 felons filling out the icy rank. And party boy of the DOD threatening to send in the army on OUR OWN PEOPLE! mr hypocrisy sends in troops that were not asked for but allowed people to be injured and die when under his watch, as he called no troops on January 6. He doesn't "care" about the people if anyone had any doubts.

Peaceful protest people. That is how we won in the war for civil rights-lock arms-chant -no fires, no looting.  Marmie had a bad week (muskie, China, courts) and he wants an excuse so go ahead, make him crazy with non-violent protest. 

Right up there with defunding Sesame Street, attacking prestigious universities with their ground-breaking research and development projects, deporting scientists. The idea is to dumb down America as a dictator's greatest fear is an educated public. Democracy is messy, uncomfortable and totally worth it.

DOCTOR DOCTOR To say it's getting confusing as the OH and I juggle different doctors, specialties, appointments is an understatement. And every single one of them, even in the same system, have their own, as they amusingly call it, customer portal for messages, questions, information--pretty much anything for one to make intelligent decisions from. And every stinking one does not work as soon as I leave the office where I set it up! Spent an entire day and a half trying to get answers from the OH's arthritis doctor on the latest med only to find out I was calling the wrong damn place! Which if their "friendly" patient portal had worked I would have found out hours earlier. It also appears everyone is working on "summer hours" so that much more fun tracking anybody down. 

When you're up to your ass in alligators, wave your hands/paws in the air like you just don't care...

Peace out....💚  💙💛

COMMERCIALLY SPEAKING (June 1/190)

MEMORY DAYS Took the holiday off last week. Busy weekend and time with the grandson so Nana went dark on the blogging. Took him to a band concert and though skeptical, he perked up when they did a Billy Joel medley. When JP he isn't talking, he's singing, so hopefully he gets into Choir next school year. After much stealthy stalking, he nailed a 14-inch bass 8 feet from the dock with a 7-foot pole. Ecstasy and chest thumping ensues.  Funny watching the changes. One minute he is all up in a man-type response and then he morphs into the funny kid again. Those moments of change are lightning fast. I think when we are parents, we may not always notice the changes quite as sharply. 

Those folks who enjoy the "Simpsons" know Bart's third grade teacher as Miss Cropopple but I think it's just a subtle joke spelling of Crabapple and it gets pronounced differently. We live near a street called Crabapple and it always makes me chuckle. I'm just weird like that.

YESTERDAY'S NEWS   Rather than allowing the distraction about the plane (which we now find he asked for, it wasn't spontaneously gifted), we should be focusing on the 2 billion in bitcoin to the frumpie family he managed to finagle on his Mideast trip. On top of the "dinner at the white house" for people who contributed to the cause at home. Guardrails are off, no pretenses as the white house has now become the whore house as one wag put it. 

Following the rules set by the felon in charge, tulsi washboard just had employees change the report to make deportees criminals when staff found no wrong-doing or connections with gangs. I think the employee also earned a kick out the door of the department as well for being honest. Do you think there are people still trying to do the right thing? Surely the boss will see the truth and back down... LOL.

Got to love Bondi-belle declaring it's illegal to call yourself boss unless you're in charge of the country. OMG-this crap would not play on a soap opera. At any rate a hell of lot of us are up for charges on this one

Ok. Let's talk big, beautiful bill. Who writes these titles - third graders? ASIDE: I refuse to be governed by intellectual inferiors. Though the scariest is stripping judges of enforcement power, said bill will cost at least $1000 more a year for the really poor and $700 for the middle class with a big savings of $690,000 for the rich. Plus adding trillions to the national debt. Explain things to me like I'm five years old why don't you? My personal math deficient rep to congress says the BBB will put money back in the taxpayer's pocket. You mean the kickback (they call them campaign contributions) you folks got for selling us down the proverbial river?

Shame on that damn Biden for covering up his health issues while delivering a booming economy, infrastructure repairs and amazing off-the-chart stock market numbers. Bite me. Speaking of health. Cutting Medicaid and demanding proof of work for life basically, 64% of Medicaid recipients work but HAVE NO BENEFITS. Most of the rest are either caregivers or disabled. Which studies indicate leaves approximately 7% of Medicaid recipients who are non-working adults. But let's gut it by 800 billion-what's the harm. One red congress person was informed at a town meeting that "people are going to die". Their heartfelt response "we're all going to die". And the band played on....

COMMERCIALS Anybody else sick of these all-body spray commercials? Though I imagine most of us are probably sweating a bit more than usual with the antics in Washington. I am less than enthralled with seeing people gaily spraying their pits, privates and feet and claiming 72 hours of happy smells. Yuck. Apparently, they have never heard of a shower.

And the shingles commercial. Shingles doesn't care and neither do I. Just walk around the rock pile doofus! Or if you can't be sure to hand those front row tickets to the people smart enough to walk around the rock pile. Though I kind of enjoy the Jardiance song/dance routines or as my b-i-l calls them "Diabetes: The Musical".  The blue/yellow color scheme; the perfect timing on stunts; depicting normal sized people who just may need the medication. What's not to love? On the other hand, the Ozempic marching citizens routine is very boring. We seem to have a recurring health issue in this country, hmmm. Supposedly these silly methods of pitching meds are more popular in a TikTok mode than some dr/scientist extolling their virtues. We must be entertained (while Rome burns...).

Although in the old days, we had our moments. "It's shake n bake and I hepped". "Please Mother, I'd rather do it myself!" My Mother would have me recreate that one for guests as my portrayal was stunning apparently. "That's a spicey meatball" "He likes it. Hey Mikey!"  "Where's the beef?" How many remember the Xerox commercial where a monk takes the hand-written sheets and makes copies rather than pains-takingly writing each page over and over. And who can forget Doctors advertising cigarettes and Crown Royal though I might have made the booze reference up. They did ban those two on Television, however. 

Interviewed an interesting lady on generational differences in communication in the workplace. Quite a lively discussion. She asked me what stuck out to me as I was growing up. I said "Motown" "Viet Nam" "Civil Rights" "Women's Rights" For her (millennial) it was 9/11 and covid. She said youth needs to listen to experience and "experience" needs to be open to new ideas and change. Change is inevitable boomers "here you are in your 70's doing video podcasts". Got me there I guess LOL. I said I believed it was every generation's duty to "shake up" the establishment (which is why we got to get these old war horses out of Congress!)

If all else fails, celebrate summer this week with 80+ degree weather. The OH's beloved tomato plants are planted so some normality and optimism return.  Peace out......💚  💙💛

                                                                                      

DARK TIMES (MAY 19/192)

DARK HUMOR When there is a power outage everyone becomes an instant expert at candlelight dinners. Ok, what's in the fridge? Everything that needs to be eaten right away. Who needs a knife? In the dark-nobody. Let's just pop some popcorn, oh shoot no microwave and no jiffy pop for the gas stove...in the dark, umm no. Guess I'll just grab a shower, oh yeah, no pump no potty. What is this strange phenomenon I just discovered called outside and natural light. Let me just charge up my phone, oh yeah. We gave up and just went out to dinner. Obviously, we got hit with a blackout at the lake.  

No problems in Grand Ledge except a branch down, but Hastings was another issue. Total blackout. First we went to set up our neighbor's generator as he just had surgery. So, these two wounded warriors were hauling a generator over the grass, moving refrigerators, etc. (he wasn't allowed to do much). Then the OH had to work out our friend's massive cord circus. Surprised the house hasn't gone up in smoke long ago. 

We didn't mind helping out as we just plug ours into the house connection, push the button (no pull cord yah) and turn on the generator at the panel. Merrily plugging the power cord into the generator posed the first problem. We've used it before, and this is a brand-new generator. Looking closely, we realized it's little tab on the plug was facing the wrong direction. WTF - aren't these things universal? Off to Ace (where the helpful hardware dude says "hey, it's backwards" tell me something I don't know)
 to find a new plug which meant another 45 minutes removing old plug and rewiring new plug and starting Ms Gennie up. As it chugged along, I realized "ruh roh" we had no power going to the house. Where was it all going? Amps and watts running hither and yon though firing up an 8000 rpm Generac to charge my phone seemed a bit of overkill. Went over every inch of the machine; perused the handbook and troubleshooting online, contemplated finding an electrician (yeah right); talked to service at Generac and I knew more than she did. Asked if there was some switch we were missing, she kept insisting it was the plug. So, we tore the plug apart to check the wiring. As I considered diving into the melting ice cream with wine and beer chasers (about all I have in the frig) the OH found a switch marked "30 amp". You don't suppose....SUCCESS! Thank God, I can use the bathroom. I was almost ready to pay an electrician 100 bucks to push a switch LOL. 

Since old faithful was chugging along and using little gas, we closed up for the night. Leaving the gennie at the door to the outside we shut the overhead garage door. A short time later, gennie kicked off. Shitake mushrooms-now what? Apparently, a wee bit of CO2 was making its presence known and as a good little safety feature, she shut 'er down. As we were manipulating the generator further outside, actually building a ramp, and trying to avoid the monsoon winds that were blowing the exhaust back into the garage, the frickin' power came back on! Not complaining. Just seemed a fitting end to a rather frustrating day. 

                                                                                       

IT'S A BIRD IT'S A PLANE IT'S IDIOTIC Wow when I worked in Government you couldn't accept diddly squat from anyone unless you could consume it on the spot I think was the caveat. But a whole effing $400 million plane would make me, or possibly any normal person, to think twice maybe? It is embarrassing that the prez of the United States is going around accepting/soliciting "gifts" from terrorist-supporting countries who actually hate us for our interferences. We used to be a leader. I heard he even bitched when UAE only gave him a vial containing a drop of the most expensive oil in the world because it was so small. Again, what a low-class buffoon representing what used to be one of the greatest countries in the world. Camel salutes and lying to his face make marmalade think "people like me", "people respect what a big shot I am". Pathetic. When he whines just give him a golden binkie. The new mantra "Make America Grovel Apparently."

HUH? Now my own low-class humor. Received a begging letter from the Alzheimer's Association. On the envelope it read OPEN IMMEDIATELY! I immediately mentally added "before you forget". I know, I know mean. Cutting it short, still sore from Friday and Saturday.  Peace out.....💚  💙💛

CUE THE FLOWERS (May 12/193)

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all my favorite mothers and those who have passed on. Memories of my Mother with our marathon monopoly games and Euchre weekends with whoever we brought home. It was always more fun when Mom quit being Mom instead turning into "no prisoners, winner take all" mentality. She was competitive and damn good at anything she played. No home-baked bread and cookies, more political debate and stimulating conversation. I suppose that's why we are all so mouthy, AND opiniated. Not having to hide intellect or actually being able to debate is so refreshing. I imagine Mom and Aunt Kathleen are sipping martinis and spilling the tea wherever their energies landed them in the afterlife.                                                                                              

PERSONAL RANT OF THE WEEK Landscaper "where art thou?" Why, why, why do small independent businesses fail to communicate? One third down for a deposit and no show on promised day until I check. Next date no show until I check. Then 3rd time's the charm and they come as promised and do a bang-up job with profuse apologies for not communicating a little better. The down-payment was expensive enough that I did not want to take a stand and cancel. At any rate, perhaps I have educated a hard-working entrepreneur on a good customer service practice. 

DISH SECTION Ok - busy week for marmalade and his cultists. Evil seems to be able to work much faster than doing the right thing, I guess. First the same people that were sooo offended by the Paris Last Supper parody (or was it) last summer think mocking the catholic church with marmie as pope should just be laughed off. Hypocrisy, thy name is maggot.

Second Ok - our new stance on no immigration and deporting everyone will, aha, affect economic growth! Remember the birth rate is down and our young people ain't interested in the jobs that so many newcomers were willing to do to be part of this country. Oops. 

Third Ok - Did it ever occur that defunding all scientific research and tossing the scientists will halt America's reign as the world leader in innovations and new discoveries? Oops. We already see the fallout of firing all the air traffic controllers due to the scaredy cat white men thinking every woman or person of color is incompetent. Double Oops. 

Fourth OK (strictly for laughs) With two non-medical people heading up our health departments we will get advice attributed to RFK like "menthol cigarettes are ok to smoke and will cure polio" compliments of comedian Don Novello, i.e., Father Guido Sarducci. He also claimed a Conclave in the 1700's  couldn't decide on a new pope and they finally voted one in as they were tired of the food. As one cardinal had a fly fall into his soup, they took it as a sign of the Holy Spirit and elected him. Next time around, a cardinal brought his own fly.  (for those who don't watch Stephen Colbert). And sadly funny RFK says autism is not genetic, it's environmental and he will prove it by September. My point-lies are truth these days. 

OUT ON THE STREETS Borrowing from one of my favorite columnists (Celia Rivenbark) the charge that all the protesters in all 50 states are being paid is "a whole extra slathering of crazy on an imbecile sandwich". Like for twenty bucks an hour we will stand in the sun/wind/rain, get harassed, hosed and arrested. Though I wouldn't say no if I was already there anyway. Magots think it's weak to protest for a principle for free rather than to get paid or screw somebody to achieve success - it's just not in their playbook. Meanwhile their hero is charging big bucks for wealthy folks to attend white house dinners so they can buy trumpie bitcoin. He's also accepting an uber expensive jet from Qatar (which is not a bribe 😄) to be Air Force One and his sons are trading off the Presidency for new ventures in other countries.  For the 12th time today, "if a democrat tried any of this shit, they would have been run out on the proverbial rail with slaps to the head in mock horror".

Let them eat cake or, modern translation, have less dolls and pencils. Funny how the rich are always telling us to sacrifice and endure being broke a bit longer while they eat more cake than they can manage. Last time that happened I believe people lost their heads over it...just saying.

In more good news for the red states (read magots) the temporary head of FEMA was immediately discharged when he said to Congress FEMA's work is vital to America. Dumped him quicker than a dam giving way in North Carolina. Still have any doubts about who is benefitting from the Administration? Even fax news is calling foul, gently, of course. And also, a prize for the poorer states, the administration can cancel Head Start but spend ninety million for a military/birthday parade. "It will be so worth it" he crows. To whom?

I'm heading out to my deck chair with a mindless romance novel and a couple of pretzel sticks and taking in Spring.  Peace out.....💚   💙💛

DAYS OF WINE (& CHEESE & CHOCOLATE) (May 5/194)

HABITUAL We are creatures of habit.

 Church. I normally sit in a particular spot in church: on the aisle (claustrophobic); single chair with arms (in case I need help rising); middle of the church (incognito). I missed my row by one and didn't realize it until midway through the service when I found I was not lounging on my comfy arm rest. However, when I looked around the lady that always sits at the end of my row was right there and the usual two people that sit behind me were right behind me -Major LOL! What do they do when I am not there? (I'm not a fanatic about attending) Do they wander aimlessly and lost with a vague feeling that something is not quite right. That is more responsibility than I really need or want. 

Habits and rituals like laundry. Always three loads in a specific order. Why? It makes no difference to the machine. Or ironing. Collar, back, front, collar again. Dishwashing. Sharp knives, delicate items, plates, containers, silverware, pots and pans. If I have sufficient hot water, soap and pre-rinse it should make no difference. I also feel like I have to do X number of chores before I can start playing on the laptop or chilling with a book. Again why? Walking. Always the same route and same guilt if I don't knock a couple 1000 steps every couple of hours. Oh hell, a glass of wine fixes everything.

ECON 101 Marmalade thinks we should be ok with being poor as he mentioned it at least five times last week. It's the economy stupid-what happened to that? But never fear, those dirty, hard, non-union low paying factory jobs are on the horizon. Along with the $5,000 baby prize to offset the 300 grand it takes to raise a child. Just tighten your belts though many are running out of belt holes. Just buy two dolls instead of thirty he says and pay a few bucks more for Christmas (which if it's Chinese means a couple hundred bucks more). Wonder what Christmas was like at his house? Me, me, me-all the presents are for me. So, I guess I understand why he thinks less is more. Meanwhile he is ordering a 400-million-dollar jet with a winding staircase and bedroom suites: promoting a 90-million-dollar military parade in honor of his birthday, etc etc. Typical king/dictator behavior. Glad we can be supportive by just enduring a little economic pain like good little serfs. 

With all the Doge savings:  three trillion, well maybe 2 trillion, well maybe 200 billion or was it basically a couple of bucks after we factor in the amount it cost us to "find" these savings. Another savings! Cut all funds to NPR and PBS the only source of emergency information and entertainment to media deserts out there which again impacts his base in the red states.  I guess giving people helpful info after a natural disaster is too "woke". Let them find out FEMA is gone on their own.  Meanwhile after firing DEI traffic controllers the rest walked out and hey, anybody want to take a plane trip?  Yep, just can't stand all the winning especially when contrasted with January 19 when we had healthy 401's, no signs of a recession, low inflation and no extra costs for punishing tarrifs. Win-win to lose-lose in a heartbeat. Great first 100 days bozo. 

NOT SO CASUAL FRIDAY PT appointment at 7 am. I know, I be crazy so only got 5000 steps before leaving. That we sign up and agree, when we are already in pain, to a vigorous routine of elliptical, stretches and giant ball exercises in the name of health improvement seems rather bizarre. Plus, all the therapists are buff and flat stomached which is another assault to our fragile, rickety egos. I followed up the day with a podcast recording but fortunately my hair-do held up (thank you hairspray) to keep me camera ready. The exercises just imparted that healthy glow. 

GRAPE TIMES Tried to recreate our luscious wine and cheese experience from Traverse at home with a few friends. As usual, we pay attention to the first description and then it dissolves into our usual chaotic, everyone talking at once funfest with wine. Auxerrois (white), Pinot Noir and a fancy Reisling paired with two pungent aged dutch cheeses yummm. And we still had room for german chocolate cake and brownies because you know chocolate goes with everything. I may have to do it again with the rest of the gang because we over bought the main ingredients as usual.  Funny how several wine samples encourage an open wallet, but all good. We are blessed to have a great group of friends who are fun, literate and interesting. Sure, we talk about ailments and grandkids, but mostly we laugh at the constantly changing lunacy of life. 

We also finally settled one of those great mysteries of wine. Why are some bottles corked, and some screw capped? Cost? Nope we were told if the bottle is corked you can store it for a time while screw-on cap libations are meant to be devoured quickly. Usually not a problem when we have guests. I may have to start having wine with dinner every night to make a dent, however on our latest collection.

                                                     

Oh yes. For the right-wingers who think we should lighten up and smile about marmie's mocking photo dressed as the pope, try making fun of the orange one and wait for ICE to break down your door in the night. Funny how that works. Lighten up all you magot culters, as there is so much to mock with your glorious leader.   Peace out....💚    💙💛

YES, WE'RE CRABBY (April 28/194)

What's all blue and sleeps in the front row? Our intrepid clown prince who eschews funeral black at a most solemn occasion showing the "best" of Amer-i-cer. Even his wife knew better.

 Apparently, much whining ensued to be seated where he could be seen so it is fitting that he was seen....sleeping. Stuck between Estonia and Finland must have been a real let-down. Meanwhile "Sleepy Joe" was doing just fine and managed to stay awake for the whole service. Again, marmalade's wife had to snarl (my word) at him to just shake Macron's hand during the peace sharing-what a tool. The idol of the evangelical-jellies, and creator of the bible (according to orange aid) it's amazingly obvious the dude's never been in church or at a funeral.

Not to cast aspersions (all biblical today with eschew and casting) but who was one of the last peeps to see the Pope? Why our own junior clown-in-waiting. Maybe looking into those soulless eyes was the proverbial last straw. I'm glad though that the venerable Francisco got to see those thousands of well -wishers and had a last ride through the crowd blessing babies. A much more fitting last day. Part of me wonders if we have seen the last of the good guys for a while... I am so over a bastard administration that deports babies.

MOVING ON Though still not firing on all cylinders this week I was able to get some work done with the podcasts. I'm hoping to get the whole summer's worth done in May. But lordie, I do hate nudging docs and attorneys on meeting deadlines. This is an all-volunteer operation, and this volunteer is getting tired.

Got to enjoy the last week of our non-teenage grandson. His transition into beast commences Friday as he turns 13. I understand it is instantaneous and inevitable, and we will now enjoy a vocabulary of grunts, sighs, surprising defiance and sudden deafness.  I will no doubt hear that plaintive "Nana" as I crash headlong over whatever embarrassing faux pas I have made on his behalf. It's going to be fun! But on the other hand, we are talking about JP who has never been at a loss for words since he enunciated his first "mama". Even before he could talk, we have video of him speaking klingon, blarney, space jam or something and waving his arms around as he follows something, someone we can't see engaged in an obviously heated discussion. 

PURPLE POISON The most anticipated purple ball made its appearance Thursday. He called early in the week to ascertain my activities on B-day. As if. But I made him work for it. So evil to watch your beloved boy twist in the wind as you feign ignorance about what has him all stoked. First shot, surprisingly, was a strike showing the versatility of a finger-tip ball curving a perfect arc into the sweet spot. He was beside himself. He proceeded to bowl four games and then another six on Saturday. He was itching for the trifecta Sunday, but his folks wanted him home for at least part of the weekend. The teenage face emerged, but he held his tongue. 

JUST CALL ME ARTHRITICA As I haven't had any medical drama for a while I thought I would try to address the issues I have with walking, sitting, stairs and bending over to put on my shoes. I have a recalcitrant (oh how I love big words that absolutely describe the situation) hip. I did not know how bad it was until I went to my first PT appointment. The therapist said "you don't bend that way, do you?" Apparently not. Takes an outsider I guess though I have been told I walk funny for a while. Why am I not laughing. I also found out that, like a crab, I walk kind of sideways bent over. The knee bone is connected to the backbone connected to the hip bone as my arthritis continues its inevitable course. My theory is my body only torments me one issue at a time before it coyly and playfully reveals the next surprise. At any rate I now have a series of tortuous stretching exercises to do twice a day for the next month and probably forever. Beats surgery. As I need to get up and walk now, Peace Out.....💚  💙💛

                                                                                        

WINING/WHINING (April 21/195)

What's your earliest memory? "I remember when I was born. I was so surprised I didn't talk for a year and a half!" (compliments of Steve Martin)

"Grape and Cherry working together" sang JP. No, he was not creating a farmer joke. He was lauding the new bowling ball he is receiving for his birthday. Ok that takes some explanation. He has been fascinated that "Storm" creates bowling balls with different scents. Yeah, I don't get it either. However, for three years he has begged to go into the pro shop whenever we bowl to "sniff the balls". It has led to some odd looks from other patrons, but it's a Storm thing and he's cute. 

So, the big moment had arrived. He finally got his lesson from the resident pro who said he was ready for a heavier, fingertip ball. JP's dreams are about to come true! Rushing to the pro shop leaving his ailing Nana to pick up his abandoned ball and bag, the snif-a-thon now commences in earnest. Green ball is vanilla; purple is grape; red is cherry. Plus, a couple of other choices in the order book. Who will pass the sniff test and emerge triumphant. I'm not kidding this was an event that can only be described as the MOST IMPORTANT DECISION OF HIS LIFE! (there will be others) He savored the moment and sweated over making the wrong choice. Cherry is cool but the grape one is purple! Grandpa likes the green one..but purple! Should I mention that he was wearing a neon yellow shirt and lime green pants-the kid is not shy about standing out. Ok finally down to cherry-grape. Upon realizing his mom has a cherry ball, he can double his smell options if he goes with grape. PLUS-it's PURPLE! Hence, cherry and grape working together floats out from the backseat. ROFL from the front seat ensues. 

Thought I was feeling my age last week at the Safety Conference. On Tuesday I was practically laying my head down for a nap at the 7:30 pm mark of the banquet. Hiding yawns and trying to look attentive after only one small wine. Wednesday, I was just as exhausted. I was planning two interviews which meant listening to their programs, taking notes and then turning it into an interview on the fly. First day went fine. Second day consisted of many discussions, taking notes at the program, moderating another program and flying back downstairs for the 2nd interview which I really had to wing. I was so proud that I managed it until I reached over the turn the recording off at the end and got the death statement "Recording On". F---K to the 10th ever-loving degree! I never started recording! Oh well, it was a couple attorneys, and they probably would have wanted to "vette" it anyway plus I never mentioned their upcoming seminar they wanted mentioned so maybe it was for the best. Attorneys hate being rushed or handed surprise questions. We'll just do it over ZOOM with their questions laid out like civilized people. Damn.

McDonalds. When is a sundae not a sundae? When it's a bowl of ice cream in a sundae dish. When one asks for a sundae, one assumes more dressing up than plain vanilla ice cream. Odd they never asked me what flavor. End of a long weekend in Traverse City. Lots of family time with Sisters and B-I-L's and a baby shower with the OH's half. One event, a wine and cheese pairing was quite informative and alcoholic. It ended with a visit to the lower-level wine aging area which was accessed down a wooden staircase with each of us clutching a glass of wine - after sampling four with cheese. We all made it unscathed. We sampled several barrels in varying stages of "aging". They definitely needed a spit bucket down there. I of course cornered the host and pointed out some safety issues, cause that's my groove especially when I am imbibing. The OH knew the drill so he escaped the drill by going upstairs to order wayyy too much wine, and cheese of course. I am just relieved we only ended up with two cases from the four-day trip.

Not being sick for a long time, I didn't recognize the signs. The exhaustion was a harbinger of a kicking one's butt common cold. I have been hugging the couch and trying to slow the mucous trail. No sore throat, a little fever-with an Alice in Wonderland head three sizes too big and a hacky cough. JP kept checking my eyes and telling me how bad, or good, I looked. He worries when his significant others are under the weather. Though he did abandon me when the siren call of a new ball had him scurrying for the pro shop. Otherwise, he's such a sweetie.

Since I have been upright too long trying to avoid medicating too much, I'm going to go back to my couch cocoon and build a tent of kleenex.  Peace out......💚   💙💛

                                              

NEEDING TO GO, WITH STYLE (April 7/197)

OLDEN TIMES Now that we are in our 70's we're not sure whether we need to go into assisted living or politics. I can appreciate the younger woman running to be the next Senator from Michigan replacing Gary Peters. The ancient mariners fluffer-buffering their way around Congress need to move on down the road. Time to get in tune with the 21st century already a quarter century old.

Considering the age and degree of dementia in the presidency, we really need to make a change. Of course, one octogenarian had better advisors, so the economy was booming, employment was at a record high, wages were up, prices and inflation were steady or coming down and we had more power in the workplace than ever before. Then three THREE months later that is all in the toilet. Because a lot of people just couldn't stand the idea that "others" (black, brown, immigrants, women) were enjoying the economy as well.  They weren't duped-they voted for exactly what they wanted-a racist, misogynist felon who promised they could reign supreme again. Surprise- he didn't care about you folks either. How much aid is getting to the devastated south right now?  The dems need to stop making excuses or hoping maggats will come to their senses. They will stay loyal because even if they suffer all the "others" will suffer more. 

TARIFF LAND Meanwhile all the penguins and seals on Heard and McDonald Islands are fretting over their 10% tariff burden. Their economy of fish and ice will no doubt take a hit.  Though I bet they look pretty cute in their little fishing boats and caps as they are now expected to export something. Don't get me started on the folks living on British Indian Ocean Territory which consists entirely of US and UK military personnel. Are they exporting security and importing everything else? Who knew? Clown cabinet again fails to educate the chief buffoon on reality.  

LATEST JP The grandson leads a busy interesting life, so we can no longer just show up and expect him to drop all and hang out. Though he is still young enough to go along with it for now. Surprised him the other day after school with a bowling adventure. He asked for a moment and walked off to talk in his phone. Apparently, he had arranged with the "guys" to play some Minecraft that afternoon and the old folks showed up. Though I told him it was cool as we didn't check ahead of time, he said no problem. I also appreciate that he walked away to make his excuses to spare me.

Later, we got him a sub sandwich for dinner. I just handed him a twenty to handle the transaction himself reminding him we had drink and chips at home so just the sandwich. About five minutes later he comes back weighted down with sandwich, pop, chips and my change. Without my saying a word he goes "Wait, wait. I can explain". Apparently, the extra items were free, and he brought me fourteen dollars back on an eleven-dollar sandwich. Color me confused. He mentioned something about engaging in some small talk. I stand amazed at his abilities to make friends and influence as the saying goes. Better not to push for details. Did I mention it's usually a couple of high school girls on duty at the sub shop at that time.

Taking a small vacay to Traverse City this week followed by the Michigan Safety Conference next week so may not be posting on Sunday. If I get time, however, I may scribble about my fascination with TC vineyard bathrooms. They are each unique and I have threatened to write a pamphlet about their variety-usually themed-accompanied by pictures. I have scheduled two wine/cheese events in addition to our idle ramblings and possibly a quick wallet emptying sojourn at the local casino. Typical sedentary activities for seniors. Big Sis and B-I-L coming for a couple days, so looking forward to some down time. Two live interviews scheduled during the conference so back to "work". Hold tight and don't look at your 401 anytime soon. This too shall pass.  Peace out....💚   💙💛

                                         

                                                                                          

PS Thank you Cory Booker for a masterful performance and the amazing truth that you are standing there - a black senator- despite the 2nd longest speech by a man determined to destroy your ability to be a black senator. A beautiful spark of light in a mostly dark week showing the good guys win sometimes too.

A SIRENS' CALL (March 31/198)

SCAMMY SHAMMYS  In a brilliant move, one step up from the Nigerian prince needing money, I received a fascinating letter from a Solicitor's office in Ontario. In it I was the recipient of a ten-million-dollar bank account left by a Dr. Maria with no heirs - hoo hoo. Well, I had to give 10% to charity but I am perfectly fine with what's left. Being the curious type I looked up the attorney and there is actually a law firm of that name and partner of the right name.  Again, I am impressed with the scammer's attention to detail.  So of course, I wrote the attorney and sent him a scan of the letter for their amusement or concern as I put it. He, of course, was happy to pursue fraud proceedings against the letter writer.  I had also apologized for the orange clown and extolled the virtues of his beautiful country confessing to relatives from his area of Canada. He turned out to be a fan of Red Wings, Lions and Tigers (as a border town dweller) and assured me this too shall pass. Thank goodness for the ever-optimistic Canadians.

PLAYING AT WAR Who knew grown men/women would revert to cutsie emojis while they're, supposedly, raining down hell on the bad guys. Serious plans hatched in Signal chat like a bunch of Valley Girls setting up a shopping adventure on Rodeo Drive. The head of the CIA, National Security, National Intelligence (oxymoron), Defense, State, Counter-Terrorism and the White House (among others) must have fired everyone who could have instructed them on how to play Stratego or Sink My Battleship -take your pick - without totally exposing their proverbial backsides to the "other side".  Incompetence, arrogance, unexpected and inappropriate humor prevail while our soldiers are being compromised or killed. Big fun. 

Showing the merit-based competence that got them their jobs we can imagine "Do I need to save these coordinates on my phone?" asks the clueless head of Intelligence (Gabby) who probably just passes everything on anyway. "Boom-Boom" chuckles Mr Natl Security (Walz) while Defense's blue boy (Hogshead) arranges the after party or did that happen before the boom-boom? Ratcliffe (CIA) just whines "we are so misunderstood. We were just chatting about the weather". Meanwhile the only one with integrity and who practiced discretion is the journalist who was accidently put on the circle jerk.  At least until they started to malign his integrity. Surprise! He just happens to be editor-in-chief of a prestigious multi-platform magazine and possesses a brain. Again, intelligence fail!  I feel so much safer now. 

IT'S ABOUT LIFE STUPID After feeding his adoring slack-jawed adherents that vaccines cause issues, like life, Rkay, not a doctor or immunologist, promoted mass doses of Vitamin A for nervous parents. Leading to several cases of liver failure because Vi- A in large doses is a direct toxin!! Kind of makes you long for the old Fauci days, an actual doctor-scientist-immunologist, when we bitched about all the washing, 6-foot rule, masks and vaccines but we lived. Sad, I know.  

But pretty much that's the future when you lay off thousands of people who actually do know what they're talking about and close down all research and prep on the next epidemic or disease. I know if I was a germ I would definitely be taking note. When I was researching the aids/hepatitis program for police and fire I could actually pick up the phone and reach someone at the CDC for advice. You know not go on my opinion, or worse, the employees who wanted no muss, no fuss. Well, you have your wish and again my catch phrase. I feel so much safer.

SPRING BREAK Took the boy to the lake for a couple of days as he had the week off. Bowled a couple of times and a quick visit to the Air Zoo in Portage to replace his beloved WWII flight jacket. Kids insist on growing. Cold but sunny which was Joe's point when I caught him out on the dock fishing pole in hand -no coat and no shoes. I insisted on shoes but have given up on coats. Update -- the song JP sang at the talent show was "In the End" by Linkin Park. He said he couldn't sing like Bennington and I tried to explain that every artist has their own style. You might sing the same song, but it is your own rendition. Upshot is he signed up for both choir and acting for his "enhancement" classes this next term. Hmmm.

Ever curious what a frozen Coke can looks after it blows? Outside of coating the entire fridge from its resting place in a drawer it becomes a work of art.  See Pic. Ok Michigan State-give us a heart attack one more time tonight!  Peace out.....💚💚💚  💙💛

                                                                 

P.S. Money saving tip of the week. How much did the government save by just parking 20 truckloads of food costing one million dollars when marmie cancelled the food bank program in Cleveland.  Cruelty is the point. 

ROLLING ALONG (March 24/199)

The first five days after a weekend are the hardest...

OH THE HUMANITY "I thought the left, you know, the Democrats, were supposed to be the party of empathy and caring. And yet they're burning down cars.." Real quote from a petulant muskie to fax news.  This from the guy who labeled empathy "the fundamental weakness of Western civilization" as well as calling anyone who received ANY kind of federal assistance "parasites". Oh boo hoo, want some cheese with that whine? Being paid by the government to rip through every institution and federal program with wanton glee. Getting fat on government contracts and using the prez and commerce secretary to hustle his goods and buy his stock. LOL & OMG! 

 In other words, he was relying on our "softness" to ignore his evil, heinous behavior and big mouth. Guess what? We didn't. Just to show you we are not bogged down in that pesky old empathy we shall rejoice in your tumbling stocks and sagging sales. Call us cruel. It's the new world you and yours asked for and created. Karma's a bitch they say.

 Word must be filtering down or consequences from Washington have finally impacted one individual in our neighborhood. For four long years we have had to endure one neighbor flapping his ludicrous banners in our collective faces extolling the virtues of their beloved cult leader. They changed them out now and then but always allegiance to the orange one. An especially egregious one proudly stated           God-Guns-marmie. Like the Almighty had anything to do with Sir POS. And for four long years, our mostly sane neighbors never tore down, torched or pooped on the daily assault. "Cause the Democrats are supposedly the party of empathy and caring".

Oh and no tears shed for the mostly poor red state schools who will have to deal with no money as they torpedo the Dept of Ed. Never fear they have a plan. Posting the 10 commandments and prayer will compensate for empty bellies, no supplies, equal treatment or special ed. Somebody's got to work the fields after all the foreign workers get deported.

FRUSTRATION I know men find it difficult to understand why women take so long to shop. Case in point. Mission:  need one pair of black dress slacks and replacements to two leisure pants that are long in the tooth as they are worn...a lot!  (suits were easier actually) Result: Two hours later, one pair of dress pants and 2 shirts I didn't even know I needed. This is after, literally, trying on a dozen pairs of pants. Male clothing mission: need pair of dress pants and a shirt. Result: 10 minutes (including check-out) after trying on one pair of pants and picking up the usual size shirt. Difference? Women's clothing has a multitude of designers, and their sizes are not uniform!  Arrgghh Trust me. No one is a perfect size whatever. That's why when you order online they ask you who (what brand) you usually wear-see they know. There is no standard sizing for women's clothes and, insult to injury, the same thing costs us more. It's called the female tax. Or does that sound too DEI? Truth hurts....us. 

STAR POWER Ok, enough negativity about the proverbial roosters flapping home to rotate. We have a budding star in the family. Through his own grit and determination, the grandson made his stage debut. He was part of a talent show where he sang a difficult half-rap half singing number that he chose and practiced. Loving grandparents attend faithfully and pray he makes it through successfully. Surprise-he was a hit! Casually holding the mic in one hand, other hand in the pocket grooving with the beat got the audience bobbing right along with him. The cheers, outside of family, were legit. Did he sing a little too fast in a couple of places? Was he off melody a couple of times? Maybe but who knows with rap anyway. Lol. We've always said his future should be in musical theater. His outfit was reminiscent of Springsteen in jeans, work boots and a long black button-down shirt over a tee shirt-all he needed was colored shades. 

                                                                                              

So stay alert and keep your powder dry. Keep dancing MSU!  Peace out....💚💚💚   💙💛

If attacked by a mob of clowns go for the juggler...

WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS (March 17/200)

RANDOM THOUGHTS -Beware the Ides of (in)March, we are much too feisty for one day. 

 Why is it so many folks, including the ones on LinkedIn that I consider more savvy than most, are still siding with marmie and can even justify the debacle with Zelensky? How do they not know that Ukraine is the only one standing on the precipice of NATO fighting to save democratic ideals. Fox News better let them know. Though even foxie conservatives have been a' chastising the "boy" for screwing with their 401's. 

When asked by seniors at a Michigan plastics plant to stop trying to cut Social Security, Vance's response was "Don't you all have jobs?" kind of fell flat with the crowd. Amazingly tone deaf and harbingers of things to come. Those 70+ folks better brush off their resumes. 

Cruising by a popular hang-out for the homeless folk, I noticed no one holding up their usual sign. You can tell the spots based on the amount of uneaten food kind folk present to them trying to help. Apparently, they take weekends off? 

Amusing that marmie said anyone who signed the USMCA agreement (because he didn't like NAFTA I guess) must have been an idiot. He negotiated and signed it in 2018. Now he's beating our longest and best ally over the head with it. And we thought he possessed no self-awareness - kudos.

Ever wonder why frauds work so well on seniors? You might think it is their lack of sophistication with the internet or failing mental facilities or just easier to scare. Nope it's because they answer their phone. Try calling anyone under the age of 50- buzz buzz buzz. They are desperate for connections and socialization. What we should do is force conversation and long never-ending get to the point stories on unknown callers. We can wear out these rascals trust me. As a past personnel director I had the pleasure? of listening while retirees talked about their cat, their grandchildren, Mildred down the street, etc. until they actually forget what they were calling about. I used to get a lot of work done once I mastered holding the phone on my shoulder and would usually answer emails as they talked. They eventually got there and were always grateful for the respect.  

In the continuing effort to make us, unhealthy, stupid and unemployed, the administration's funding cuts to Johns Hopkins will shut down a large part of the City of Baltimore as they are the largest private employer in the City. Another smart money-saving move by chainsaw mary. 

The priest at my church likes to start the service by asking if anyone has any good news to share. He was just bubbling over with eagerness to share his news. Reaching under the lectern he pulls out a large basket. "I know it's hard to get eggs right now, but someone gifted me some." Ok big whoop. But then he tilted the basket to reveal giant bright blue ovals that look like they were laid by a dinosaur. One looked to be the same volume as a dozen chicken eggs. He further revealed they were EMU eggs! Double huh. As I've not noticed many Liberty Mutual clones around the neighborhood it is a mystery. Especially since Doug, the emu, is, well a guy. 

Paraphrasing Jeff Foxworthy, "you may be a racist if you deport a Brown Medicine highly skilled organ transplant surgeon from Lebanon with a proper H-1B visa" or "detain a woman in Puerto Rico coming back home to the USA because she is brown". You may be a scared little white boy and racist when you deliberately ERASE all references to women, African American and Hispanic heroes who are buried at Arlington National Cemetery by order of two little scared white boys-marmie and hogshead.

Speaking of scared white boys, I always seem to be greeted at church by the grumpiest hospitality member in the group.  Very definition of an oxymoron, I know. It's like he darts over to the door to hand me my book to which I always say thank-you but never a friendly acknowledgement. Mind you these are volunteers, and no tips are at stake.  I asked another member why he is always so grumpy, and his answer was "he's grumpy and I'm sneezy" hilarious. He also services my row when they pass the plate and is in my path to hand me my bulletin, a regular three-peat. It has a become a game. However yesterday, he fumbled the signal and forgot to pass the plate so I'm frantically trying to throw money at it. We clasped hands as he took possession of the envelope. Nope-no change. Still handed me my bulletin with his trademark scowl. Totally makes my day.

Like most celebrity endorsements, a crappy car was hawked by a celebrity who doesn't drive and really hates EV's to followers who could never afford it anyway. Unfortunately, and humorously it was the president. 

We buried our friend last week and a more emotional funeral I don't think I have ever been. Wishing peace and love "that there's just too little of". Keep protesting, listening, believing and pushing change where you can. God bless Missouri because with FEMA funding blocked, you're on your own. You sold your soul to a man who doesn't even know your name... 💚  💙💛

                                                              

MARCH MADNESS BEGINS EARLY (March 10/201)

GREEN GREEN Why is grass always "greener"(egregious) when the dems play? When Marjorie (Jewish laser crazy) Green shouts insults while wrapped in her farm raised-mink coat like a schoolgirl wearing her bunny wrap at homecoming during Biden's address, we just sigh and move on.  But when a truly courageous old dude, also named Green, complete with a resplendent cane, cites the emperor's lack of clothing, class and truth while shaking said cane, the repugs are so intimidated they toss him out and censure him. Of course, the dramatic toss-out took a while, because well the man uses a cane. Talk about your thin-skinned snowflakes.  We need more dems like Rep Al Green in my estimation. 

                                                                                                          

Meanwhile same old same old. Tariffs. marmie creates a crisis, then resolves the crisis he just caused. However, the stock market is certainly reacting in a "predictable" manner. After putting financial people in high positions, the gloves are off in that it's probably all about making as much money as they can along with an alleged appearance of stock manipulation.  Don't get me started on a bitcoin reserve. Our economy relying on something that is based on nothing and only worth what people will pay? Again, I feel so much safer. Also, when is the fishman going to start cutting the more than 4000, six-figure emps who carry the water for Congress? Yep, they got that many "helpers". As soon as they finish laying the hatchet (excuse me, chainsaw) to Disaster Relief, Medicaid and SS (while raising defense AGAIN) the proverbial shitske will really hit the maggot fan. 

PEOPLE BE STRANGE We were waiting behind a lady with a full cart at the grocery store when she frantically discovers she has lost her debit card and searches for other means of payment. I calmly watch her try a check which is denied, then a credit card that she doesn't push all the way in and says it doesn't work. Just as she gives up and starts to walk away from her cart, the man behind us comes up and pays her bill! $134 worth. Now, $50 I might have helped out, but $134 and multiple payment options are declined? I don't want to say it was not legit, but I watched her use several means and no dice. Even the OH thought it was a little squirrely and he's like the Beiber song "Love Yourself" in that "he likes everyone". But kudos to the kind man in the back. We pass no judgement and applaud the charitable act. 

Another people be strange moment was the other day when I could not utilize the discount at Bob Evans as the cashier claims, the QR Code kept getting rejected and they weren't taught how to deal with that (like call a manager?). Last visit there a discount would be applied if I spent $20. As I was less than a buck short, I grabbed a loaf of banana bread which would essentially be free to reach the magic number. Again "no can do". Apparently the "slower" of the restaurant species is always at the cash register. I have suffered BE's constant text and emails and even downloaded the app to partake in the coupons available. Then it dawned, they had never honored one!

I have a hidden talent, frankly, which comes from my penchant (love) of taking offense on minor issues like that. Yes, I take things back and get refunds, etc., etc.  At any rate, I have developed excellent complaint letter writing skills. Never post publicly, unless the offense is outrageous, I'm never going back, and lives are at stake. But I carefully and respectfully reiterate the facts and behaviors and send it to the owner or corporate. My latest missive resulted in $20 in gift cards from the local establishment and another gift card from corporate. Amazing how often that works. I got a personal call & recompense from the English Inn (a restaurant who prides itself on a fine dining experience) after I wrote to the owner describing our less than fine outing. After 3 out of 4 awful experiences at a local Mexican place at the lake, yes, we went back four times as our options are limited out there, I wrote the owner and described my issues. For once I got no response so the OH said maybe not their fault as I should have written it in Español. Authenticity has its drawbacks I suppose.

MSU (BIG10 Champs) soundly thumps little brother michigan for the second time and of course the blues try to start a fight par usual by disrespecting our senior tradition. Funny how they are always the "other team" involved but "they never start it". They are the champs of that scenario.

Busy week with doctor visits, a conference and a Celebration of Life for our dear friend. Now as JP said the other day when he was trying to get off the phone with his bestie to go bowling with us "Geez guys, I have a life".     Peace out....💚💚💚  💙💛I Stand with Ukraine

STY GAMES (March 3/202)

TIPLESS WORLD As businesses pushes us into a cashless society, they are also charging us an extra service fee for the privilege of using a credit card! "Oh you want change for a twenty? Let me figure out how that works". Perhaps that requires an extra charge for the ability to do basic math. 

SERVICE WORLD Furnace/AC install went well until about 11 pm when the brand spanking new heatmaster started to do a little shimmy/shake along with powering up and down every time it turned off. Run, run, swoop down slow, slow then run, run slow, slow stop. Mesmerizing as one waits for the furnace's fan symphony to finish clearing its throat three times before turning all the way off. Sigh. HVAC folks out the next day to REPLACE the igniter which started the whole "let's replace the whole damn thing and quit replacing an igniter every year. As I understand it; they do not ship the latest igniter with the brand-new furnace, and it came separately. Huh? So, if you don't know that, you learn the hard way. Always comforting when the repair guy (not the install guy) has to keep looking at the instructions.  Maybe they should come to the install party together? Nobody got a tip, but from experience, I did postdate the check a couple of days. Going local we at least can get service within a reasonable time. 

Not so much with handyman/woman people. If you're working for yourself and are frantically, and frequently advertising your ability to fix anything, just call, you should probably make yourself available.  We have had mixed, well actually lousy adventures with handy persons. One lasted a few years, did several jobs and then ghosted before finishing the bench for the deck/pergola. I have to quit paying these people before everything is done, but we had had good history with him. I even checked police and obituary reports to see if I was banging on an empty drum. Nothing, so that mystery remains. 

Another one did some bigger jobs and even came out to the lake house to build a firewall and a couple of other projects. We gifted him with one of our precious all-beef sticks and paid his bill in full. All we needed was our key back. Another mystery disappearance. I think he lost it and was embarrassed. Dumb. Both of these guys did take some shortcuts so not a great loss unless you really need something done. Asked an electrical engineer friend to help on a couple of small electrical jobs, but obviously not a long-term solution. 

Found another possibility at the lake whose wife was frantically advertising his awesome skills. Gave him a shout when we realized upon purchase of a new generator, we had never purchased one in the box before. I was hoping for some assistance with the 220 lb. metal monolith. It wasn't about how to put it together, but more about how we could move the damn thing to put it together. While I was sending ghost texts out to the universe, the OH came up with creative solutions like hanging the beast over the tailgate to put the feet and wheels on and tying cables to it and run it down a ramp to the ground. I was playing second chair so my assistance consisted of fetching tools, reading instructions, pulling, sliding moving things on command and being very helpful when the OH ran into a roadblock on the wiring by pointing out we could move the battery box. It works and no cuts, bruises or broken bones -Success!

Of course, when we finally heard from the newbie handyperson, we went back and forth a couple of days before connecting. He diagnosed my non-working basically new dishwasher within ten minutes, and we arranged a couple more jobs agreeing to meet in the am before we had to leave. No show. I finally texted and the response was he had an appointment at 9. Ahem. Step one of running a business COMMUNICATE! I sent a long text and said we'd like to work with him, but we need to communicate on changes to schedules or I might as well nip this in the bud. We agreed to a meet next Wednesday pm so we will see if it's a hit or a miss and move on.

POLITICAL RANT I'm assuming everyone has been privy to the shit show last week with our dumpf and his mini-me, judy. After inexplicably voting with our mortal enemies (for 80 years) on the Ukraine war they then tried to ambush Ukraine's premier, who despite being outnumbered, rendered our fearless leader and wannabe mafia don petty and asinine. Which immediately got Ukraine massive support from the EU. judy's ranting about saying thank-you reminded me of an old grannie reminding President Z to thank his auntie for a totally inappropriate birthday gift. Perhaps he even offered notepaper so he could communicate his gratitude for holding off an invading dictator and saving democracy. Wow. Well at least our mortal enemies were happy. 

Also, as for all the massive layoffs of government workers (with prejudice by saying it's a performance issue), who the hell do you think is going to do the work that we, I don't know, pay government to do? It will affect everyone. Of course, since they have also outlawed science, health and charity maybe people don't get it yet. I have a family member who has often made the comment that they consider a compliment, "well you work for government, but I know you work hard". Where did this mentality come from? Name one business that has a 100% productive and perfect workforce. Just like other businesses, the majority are decent people doing their job. As someone who has worked in management and personnel I have definitely disciplined and fired government workers, just like every other business manager doing their job. 

But no sweat, the house passed a budget proposal that has the potential of cutting 880 billion out of Medicaid and 7,000 social security workers are also being laid off. Their thinking is the disabled and poor need to find a job with medical benies. Good luck with that. Maybe muskie should get back to running his crumbling empire and get out of the "people's business". Technically the government workforce has not grown proportionately for 50 years, and I can attest that every government job I ever had was in a vastly understaffed situation with the emps doing several jobs to keep things afloat-at less pay than the private sector. Humorously today, the trade-off was you were protected by Civil Service. However, you know who collected a paycheck without working? Right, political appointees usually with ridiculous demands of preferential treatment, ignoring established rules and procedures and causing general chaos. I have examples unfortunately.

THE BACKYARD MENAGERIE Nothing like new goodies like corn cobs to entice all types of beasts to the backyard. The birds have reigned supreme for many years and those below have grabbed what left-overs fall into their realm. It's always a hierarchy thing where the sparrows get knocked out by the starlings who fade for the crows who bow to the cardinals who acquiesce to the bluejays. We have even had some raptors who snatch a more meaty offering but that's nature. This year we added the corn and are hosting about 13 deer but also, ducks, rabbits, coyotes, a giant racoon and some other weird blobs that hover over the golden treasures that are impossible to identify. Suffice it to say, we are becoming popular. Though the racoon has sometimes moved right onto the deck after leftover seed and does not seem too spooked by humans. Come Spring all that goes away and the only beasts enjoying free meals are my hummers (hummingbirds). Could cause a riot at the door.  Peace out.....💚  💙💛

3 STARS AND ABOVE (February 24/203)

THOUGHT OF THE DAY:  Business exists to make a profit. Government exists to provide service. Taxes paid in, help to all comes out-get it?  Instead of pushing to post the 10 commandments in schools try not to disparage, threaten and doge-douche pastors that ask you to follow them. 

WEATHERPROOF So, I guess we are getting our January thaw in February. Just in time as we clock one of the coldest Februarys on record. Saw a tip jar the other day that was labeled "Should we fire the groundhog?" Oddly enough there was folding stuff in the No jar and nada in the Yes. We are a funny people. I still say they juice up the little fellow and determine if more cold weather will help the cranberry crop or whatever, threaten his family, etc., to give the "right" reading. 

Wonderful timing as our lake house furnace is stumbling along on its final crippled proverbial legs. After the last repair we discovered she was more than 20 years old! Existing on borrowed time but of course new ones will never last that long. And why not replace the AC at the same time, argghh. Fortunately, we picked a mild week to execute the job. I was hoping to make it through the winter, but was warned prices and products were going to be more expensive/unavailable if we waited even a couple of months. And you thought what happens in Wash DC has nothing to do with you...

MAR/MUS LAND Isn't it odd that the two people let go from the Joint Chiefs of Staff were, wait for it, a woman and a black man. The highly decorated, experienced and extremely competent black man replaced by a totally unqualified white dude who had to be shoehorned in around the requirements.  Now doesn't that sound a lot like a violation of the DEI dealie?  Not to mention the woman was the second female admiral in command that was fired. These jobs are not filled by "newbies". These people have put in an entire career of accomplishments and command experience before being appointed. In other words, highly experienced professionals with a proven record. Fired by a talk show host (well actually a talk show host and failed businessman). Perhaps the two were scared of strong women used to command with more stars on their epaulets than in their eyes might see right through their particular forms of BS and cluelessness. I feel so much safer now. 

And the best solution for problems in the air as warned by Pete Buttigieg for years, is to fire a bunch of FAA and air traffic controllers which is already causing flight cancellations. A lot of chaos for 5% of the budget. Gotta find money to pay the muskie I guess. 

ON A LIGHTER NOTE Life with JP. We enjoyed an overnight with our buddy over the weekend, and he fills us in on all the crazy stuff in his life. I enjoy listening and we are able to give him all our attention with no responsibility-what a deal! He's all excited about being in a talent show at school and insists he wants to sing. Well, to be kind, that would not have been my first choice for him. His Mom and I think he should do jokes. He kills and his memory and timing are awesome. He even knows to wait on delivering the punchline. But somehow, I get the impression it would mess up his rep with his buds to do stand-up comedy. I do not get the non-coolness factor of all that, but his decision. 

Then he was all uptight about going through a "puberty" class. Yep, ye old sex ed we called it, or I think it was called "Growing Up & Liking It" in grammar school. He said he's been through it twice already in other years and they show pictures of EVERYTHING -both sexes. He says it's just gross. 😉 I told him the human body is beautiful, and God doesn't make junk. Though it is amazing how little men seem to know about female functions. "What you get a period every month?" and "Having a baby is no big deal" JP will probably die whenever he reads this-hopefully at a much more mature age. LOL

COOKKIIEESS! The GS cookies are out already. However, they do not go door to door and they do not deliver. Delivery costs $15.00 at least! I get that things are more dangerous these days, and I'll order online or whatever, but they won't even deliver the darn things with Mom or Dad in the car with them. You have to "catch" them at whatever location they choose to populate. We were told it was a chance to practice a little Entrepeneur stuff when we were in scouts with taking orders, counting money and making change, delivering orders correctly. Now it's all business...for the Girl Scout administration, I guess. It doesn't appear to be tied to any particular scout who used to have to hustle to get their camping money through their own initiative and enterprise. May just have to skip my delectable thin mints this year.

Speaking of cookies, I was trying to hear the television last night and kept telling the OH to turn it up. Turns out a couple of cookies were calling my name and were drowning out the dialog until I liberated them from the package. Such is life. I'm also partial to frozen white chocolate chip cookies left over from Christmas.   

THEN Interesting to learn that although Ukraine started the war and perhaps bombed themselves, they were not invited to initial peace talks. Does anyone get it that if Russia stops it's over? History is written by the winners as they say. Hopefully not in this case. Peace out....💚   💙💛

HEARTS AND SOULS AND SO ON (February 17/204)

NOT SO SUPER? Super Bowl, Super Sunday, Super Build-Up - super sleeper. But it is an excuse to eat nachos and chicken wings. You know wine doesn't quite go with it, but as I had some in the fridge...  Am I losing my sense of humor or are the commercials trying way too hard, at least humor -wise. Though I truly enjoyed the Mic Ultra seniors hustling pickle Ballers. The seal played by Seal was creepy-he must be hard up for cash. Maybe the times are too dark right now for us to forget the world for a couple of hours and be entertained. Though the Chiefs certainly tried their best with six, was it, pratfalls by the QB and dropped passes by, well everyone on the team which were eventually captured by the opponent's constant interceptions.  

SO ON AND SO ON MIOSHA interview completed last week, the same week that the muskie went after OSHA which we knew he would like every other Repugnant administration. Question. Will people do the right thing without laws and rules? Well, the pres doesn't so guess not. Insurance companies are going to have to work awfully hard to avoid paying claims by pushing safety programs. Just a bit easier with OSHA. 

Though there is not much in DC to be happy about couple of humorous thoughts. After laying off the folks guarding our nuclear stockpile and realizing what a boneheaded move that was (among many) now they can't seem to get in touch with the laid-off (and pissed) workers. The tea party arose when we elected a black man who they claim was born in Africa. Now we are being ripped off by a white guy who was actually born in Africa. Considering the howling, phone calls, letters overwhelming the Congress I think they might just find out what revolution is all about. There is more of us than them you know. muskie's 4-year-old told the "supposed" pres to shush he wasn't the president. We know little pitchers have big ears and repeat everything...Meanwhile tesla's crashing (deliberate pun) all over the world and the Pentagon has withdrawn the 400 million? billion? they were going to spend on "guess who's" electric vehicles. Don't worry musk isn't working for free, I think it's up to 14 million so far.

On the hmmm ide, RFK has rescinded the layoffs of 950 Indian Health Services employees hours after they were told they were being laid off. Should we be tentatively optimistic that RFK ran a con on the Don? 15,000 IRS employees have been laid off. Good news/bad news as the layoff, when they already had too few employees, could cut down on being audited but maybe not receive your refund. And finally, good to know I didn't misread it, but JD is as big an ass as orange julius. Pissing off and insulting all of Europe now. 

VALENTINE ARROWS How much do you trust me?" Well apparently, not much. When I told the OH he needed a weekly shot for his anemia and I would be the dispenser he was, shall we say, not a fan. I trotted to his first stabbing to learn the technique armed with my usual inappropriate yet witty remarks. Hell, I didn't want to do it either. After we played around with the syringes (not self-sheaving I might add which is so wrong with my shaky hands) the nurse commented she could continue to do them. Obviously, we signed up immediately. Would have been a good skill to learn I suppose. It's the initial stabbing that is the tricky part. He keeps telling people I would be oblivious to the bubble in the tube, and I say he's just being a baby. 

A good friend passed away last week. Although we knew she was battling the ravages of cancer for the third time, we had our hopes. She was a main player in our second family of close friends who raised our children together, appreciated plays, music, dining together, partying at each other's houses including our now infamous wine tastings, celebrated each other's achievements as we grew from young adulthood to our current senior status. It was supposed to go on forever. We will remember the wonderful foods prepared at her house and her strong yet loving opinions and the fact that I always chose a sweeter wine that I would call a "Donna wine" to please her at every gathering. Rest in Peace my friend. We'll see you again. To grieve is to have loved. 💔💖