Reflection

In the summer of 1968 my brother was off the coast of Vietnam. He was a radio operator on board USS Arlington AGMR-2. A ship I'll always remember. I missed my brother and was quite proud that he was in the Navy. He would occasionally send me letters and a Navy magazine. I don't recall the name of the magazine but remember it had a centerfold. Hot stuff back then. Bikinis. Also very sexist by today's standards. By the time I had joined the Navy in 1971 this publication was history. As Bob Dylan had predicted, The times they are a changin'.
Back in '68 when you left the ship you were in your dress uniform. Either Whites or Blues depending upon the season. To wear your civilian clothes was a treat. There were " locker clubs " just outside the gates of the bases. There you could rent a locker to store your civilian clothes in. Civilian clothes were not allowed aboard ship. After leaving the base you would change into your clothes but you must change back to the " Uniform of the Day " before returning to base. Some went through this ritual and others took a different route. You could have uniforms custom tailored to wear on " Liberty." These uniforms looked like the regulation issue but were modified somewhat. On the Navy uniform a zipper would be added to the jumper top. This zipper ran down the side and allowed the jumper to be tailored to fit your chest and waist. On the inside of the cuffs would be embroidered designs. Dragons and flames were very popular. The pants were also modified to fit snugly through the butt. The famous thirteen buttons were there alright but served no function. Snaps under them had replaced them. In 1968 if you were a sailor on liberty you were expected to be drinking beer. Quick access was a necessity ! Necessity is the mother of invention. Often times these Liberty uniforms were made of Gabardine
All of that had changed by 1971. The locker clubs were still there but no longer necessary. The liberty uniforms were a thing of the past. The old school boys still wore them but the new guys,like me, didn't think that was too cool. Remember we are in 1971 now and we are all hip and cool !. I guess the change was a concession to the times. It was a change in attitude. The leaders and decision makers were a younger crowd. Everyone was concerned with being progressive. Even the haircut was being relaxed just a little.
Having spent twenty years in the Navy I feel qualified to comment. Looking back I think all of that had a detrimental effect. Less pride in service and less loyalty to your command. You see on the upper right sleeve of your uniform was the name of your outfit. Whether ship or shore you were identified with a certain group. This fostered loyalty. And you watched out for your shipmates ! The wearing of the uniform fostered that pride. I'm a sailor ! Immediately recognizable by anyone. There was no mistaking a sailor in his dress blues !
A certain myth went along with all that.
I'm hoping to organize a group of Veterans to march here in a parade. Perhaps in time for Memorial day but if not the fourth of July. I have my regulation U.S.Navy uniform and will be proud to put it on. Marching down the street to honor all those that have marched ahead of me. I am proud to have followed in the footsteps of all the patriots ! The times are still a changin'.

Illegal

Ran across a small article online. I hadn't heard about this on the evening news. Not sure why that is, unless they were trying to keep it a little quiet. Although I can think of no reason why not. Whatever the case this story caught my attention. The city of Baltimore has begun a new federally mandated program for tracking illegal immigrants. Anyone arrested will be fingerprinted and those prints passed to the FBI. The FBI in turn will share those fingerprints with the Immigration and Customs Service. In that manner the ICE can track illegals and deport them for crimes committed.
One group here in Maryland " Casa de Maryland " is all up in arms. They are claiming they will be profiled and arrested for minor crimes. They fear they will be deported for these crimes. They say they have been trying to foster a positive relationship with the Police department. This policy is a determent to that effort.
My reaction is short and simple. If you are in my country legally, and have the papers to prove it, you have nothing to worry about. Don't commit any crimes and you have nothing to worry about. And " minor crimes " are just what exactly ? Crime is crime. Never heard of anyone in this country, legally, being deported for any minor crimes. Come to think of it haven't heard of any for major crimes either.
I think the thing that amazes me more about this story is that this is a new policy. I thought it would have been the duty of any agency to report the presence of any illegals to the authorities. Why is it that we have so many separate agencies and they fail to share information ? Why are these same agencies so concerned with who gets the credit ? It is all a little silly.
I am just getting real annoyed with these " immigrants " that enter our country illegally and then expect protections. I really get annoyed when they protest ! What part of illegal is it that they don't understand ? And as long as our government allows this to happen , it will continue. It will get worse. In this latest policy the poor immigrant feels uneasy. He is not comfortable being in my country. Well that's just too bad. If I sneak into your country  I wouldn't have a warm and fuzzy feeling either. Especially if I'm committing crimes !

Looking back

A group has formed on Facebook that I am proud to be a member of. This group consists of residents and former residents of a certain geographic location. In reality it could be anywhere but it just so happens it is the eastern end of Long Island. The town of East Hampton to be exact. We would never call it " The Hamptons."

Lately there has been some discussion about changes. The changes that have occurred and changes that possibly should occur. People hate changes. This is particularly true of the residents of East Hampton. It is part of our heritage. Don't go changing things ! Each succeeding generation has witnessed changes and each succeeding generation has complained about it.

The latest thing to change was the closing of a deli. This deli has been operating in this building ,under various owners, for at least sixty years or longer. It was the last Mom and Pop deli in the village. The last vestige of days gone by. The residents bemoan this loss.Well,some do. You see there are two distinct groups in East Hampton. The ones whose families have lived there for several generations and the new comers. The new comers embrace changes.

I am a former resident and have not been to visit this place for a very long time. I'm quite sure I would be shocked to see all the changes. Last time I was there was to bury my father. Graveyards don't change much. Perhaps it would be better for me not to return and have a look around. Just remember things the way they were.

In the larger picture no one should be surprised. This has happened throughout history and we all know history repeats itself. When our ancestors settled Long Island ( Native Americans are always unsettled ) we started making changes. Why ? Because we wanted to raise our families in the manner we were raised. We bought the land from the Indians and built our towns. Then we started living our lives the way we always had. Things stay pretty much the same until interlopers arrive to upset the apple-cart. New ideas and ways of doing things bring about changes. Each generation remembering the last. The older folks complaining about the new. Has always been so and will most likely remain that way.

I think the main thing is we all hate to see our past fading away. The memories of our childhood. The places we played.ate,lived and loved. It is a sad thing to see all that pass.When we have children of our own we all want things to be better for them. So as a result, we make changes.Then we become Grandparents and want to take it all back. We hate the changes and blame it all on this younger generation. Darn kids think they know it all.

I can see the same thing happening right here in Greensboro. I'm a newcomer here, only been here twenty years or so. My son is a town commissioner. Talking about changes to be made. It is these " outsiders " like him that make changes. Thing is, no locals ran for the job. But the locals will complain. I take none of this on a personal level. I'm just an observer. I did join the historical society and have an interest in saving some of Greensboro for future generations.

All things change. It is the acceptance of those changes that causes some pain. Some never do.

Getting Focused

I've got too many irons in the fire. For whatever reason I have gotten myself into more things than I can comfortably handle. Never much of a multi-tasker I find myself a bit flustered. I want to do it all. I have research to do for the historical society. That in of itself is quite a large project. I'm still working on the family tree. I've got this blog I enjoy writing and lately I've taken to composing poetry. All those things plus other projects that I have been putting off. I really need to regain focus.
Spring is just around the corner and with that comes a multitude of tasks. Yard cleanup, grass cutting, tilling and planting. I've promised to install the hot tub for my daughter in law as well. Makes me wonder just what is it I've done all winter.
It is just that I've had this burst of creativity lately. I have no explanation for it. Some of it comes from being inspired by others. Thanks to their encouragement I've been willing to put it " out there. " Either that or I've finally reached the age where I really don't care what people say about me. I've become comfortable in my own skin. OMG I'm growing up. Mom always said this would happen someday.
While I have been enjoying this little creative burst it has lead me to think about things a little differently. It has changed my thinking in regards to writers and poets. My parents never gave much credence to either as an occupation. As a result I was influenced to think that either of those as an occupation would have been less than a manly pursuit. It wasn't encouraged or taken seriously in my household. Dad thought it was effeminate, especially poetry. If the opposite had been true I can't help but wonder if I may have made a different career choice. Or at the least been a starving author ! Artists starve ,so why not authors ?
Well that is just speculation. I do need to concentrate more on the job at hand. I have committed to this history project and need to return to it. It is hard sometimes to stay on the trail and not wander off. Did I mention I started writing a book ? Got a few pages down already. Have to sit that aside for awhile if I'm ever going to get things finished.

On Sale

Barack Obama must be listening to his wife. I heard where in his latest budget proposal he wants to include a ten thousand dollar tax credit for anyone buying a new " green " car. This tax credit could be applied at the time of purchase. Sounds like the same logic most women use. Buy it when it is on sale and you're saving money. Do not consider whether you actually need the item or not. Do not be concerned with trivial things like, can I afford it ? It's on sale ! It's a tax credit. Buy it !
Seriously though, of what benefit is that to most of us ? How about a tax credit for gas or food ? Now that might do some good. If I can afford to buy a new car I probably don't need the tax credit that badly. The rhetoric is that is good for the environment and will stimulate the economy. Yeah,alright. The environment I can get and you do have to start somewhere. As far as stimulating the economy I'm not convinced. This tax credit would only apply to " approved " vehicles. Just who is doing the approving. I haven't done any real research on the deal but I'm quite sure more foreign manufacturers offer these " green " vehicles than American. So just whose economy are we stimulating ?
I read these things and can't help but wonder what are they thinking. Our elected officials can't be that out of touch,can they ? On one hand they what to grant tax breaks and with the other raise or impose new taxes. If they are not giving our money away in some social programs they propose breaks for the more wealthy individuals in our country. Cash in hand means little, your line of credit is what really counts. What happened to a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush ? That doesn't apply in today's economy. And then they wonder why the economy is so bad. Well,duh !
Personally I think we were all better off with the barter system. At least that way we all had to contribute in some meaningful fashion. And we are all capable of doing that. I'm tried of excuses. I'm tired of everyone attempting to give reasons why they can't do this or that. I'm really tired of those that think they are entitled. Give me a few hours with the budget and I could do some real saving ! I certainly wouldn't be popular with a whole lot of people but things would change ! You see that is the problem with being the President. You win election in the popular vote and then spend the next four years trying to stay popular. What I would like to hear from a candidate is ; elect me and I'll make some serious changes whether you like me or not. I'm the boss and will make the decisions ! If you become unhappy with the changes you can always fire me. In the meantime I will do what needs to be done. Thank you very much for your support !

Work for It

I was having a pleasant conversation with my sister yesterday. She lives in Florida and we stay in touch on a fairly regular basis. I do enjoy talking with her. Another connection to the past. There are things you can only talk about with your siblings because,well, they are your siblings. They understand what you mean even when the meaning isn't so very clear. Simpatico, I think they call that. Our Mom had just had a health crisis and she had just returned to her home. Mom is 82. My sister was saying how the doctors urged a lifestyle change for Mom,as they always do. She needed to exercise more and eat healthier choices. The standard Doctor lingo.
My sister had remarked how she had a treadmill in her home and used it on a regular basis. She had considered buying my Mom an exercise bicycle but decided against it. Probably wouldn't get used. I agreed . I remarked that is why you can always find them in the paper for cheap ! Hardly ever used is the most common description.
As often happens with me I went off on another whole train of thought. Why is it so much easier to develop bad habits than to form good ones ? Didn't take long for me to start smoking but over twenty five years to change that habit. Bad habits you can form all alone,unassisted, no problem. To change that behavior however often requires the assistance of others. I think that is why people hire a personal trainer. Some one to yell at you and keep you motivated. Your spouse doesn't count, that's just nagging ! But when you pay someone to do the same thing it is called positive reinforcement. Funny how our minds work,isn't it.
We often blame bad habits on someone else's influence. Everybody else was doing it. A movie star was doing that and I thought I'd be just as cool. Good habits we take all the credit for. I quit smoking ! Some insist on telling everyone that and insisting they should do the same. A definite change in attitude from there previous opinion.
It is possible to acquire good habits. Thing is,it takes work and a conscious effort. If only bad habits took the same. At least that way we would have a fighting chance. Healthy foods just don't taste as good as Ice cream and candy. Riding is much easier than walking. The use of every labor saving device possible just seems logical.
Yes,it is a quandary alright. The never ending battle between good and evil. The deck is stacked against us. I wonder why that is so ? I think God must have a good sense of humor. Anything worthwhile is worth working for. My Grandmother often said those words. That old time logic and good common sense. 

Expect Nothing

A lawsuit has been filed against Facebook. Apparently some businesses feel that Facebook is invading their privacy. Gasp ! Facebook installs cookies on your computer and monitors where and what you look at. They admit to knowing what browser you are using, your operating system and what websites you visit. I'm amused that these business people would be surprised by that. Would like to meet them, got some waterfront property for them.
The law speaks to an " expectation of privacy." That is why they can install security cameras on main street but not in a dressing room at Walmart. Facebook is advertised as a social network. Should I reasonably assume an expectation of privacy ? I don't think so. This social network is a free service or entertainment media,if you prefer, so I really have no basis for complaint. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth ! Don't like it, leave.
The ones filing the suit seem to be concerned that someone would find out what they are looking at. Well, Grandma always told me this, if you are ashamed of what you are reading or looking at, you probably shouldn't be looking at it in the first place. Live your life with nothing to hide. Good old common sense still works today.
The bottom line is simple, put your business on Facebook and your business is now public. Expect nothing in the way of privacy.

Writing

I have decided to write some of my blogs and other writings down in a book. I was fortunate to receive a beautiful leather bound book, with blank pages, as a Christmas gift. It is perfect for what I have in mind. I did have a collection of my blogs published in a hard cover edition that rests on my bookshelf. A limited edition volume, one copy. I was thinking writing one in my own handwriting would be a nice thing to hand down. Add that personal touch. I have quite a bit of material to chose from, so filling the book should be no problem. The only real obstacle to this endeavor is my handwriting. My penmanship is less than stellar. The last time I can remember practicing that the paper had three lines on it ! You remember, the dotted line in the center and solid lines top and bottom.
I would like to do this in cursive. That form of writing is becoming a lost art altogether. I am thinking about getting some course of instruction to refresh my skills. Problem there is at my age by the time I master it I would probably be too shaky. I should have listened when I was in school and practiced my penmanship skills. Well, most guys have terrible handwriting anyway. Pretty handwriting is the domain of women and Monks. And now the Monks use a font setting on their laptops.
I should have started all these projects years ago. Now I have several projects and hobbies going on all at once. When I was younger I was given to more trivial pursuits that were far less productive. Whoever said, youth is wasted on the young, hit that nail on the head. I'll try to find time to practice my cursive writing skills. I want to do this book thing. I'll have to check online or at the library for a method. I'm thinking I want to use a fountain style pen. That I think will be the first step. Buy a fountain pen and start just writing with that. Probably take some getting used to. One more iron in the fire. I do have an idea about using some of my pictures in a project. That will have to wait,for now. So much to do and so little time.

Reassigned

I was just sitting here listening to the morning news. All the usual fodder. Tax hikes, violence and someone in trouble for using a derisive term. Then I heard them talking about transgender people. I had heard some debate about whether to allow them to use public restrooms. I wondered how that was going to work. One proposition states they must have had " gender reassignment surgery. " OMG,  I've heard of that stuff but never thought I'd hear about it on the morning news. I'm no prude,  but really ?

The first thing that came to mind was the term gender reassignment. I realize it is a matter of faith but I know who "assigned " my gender. I really don't think you can reassign his choices. ( Or hers,if that is what you believe). There is an old saying, It isn't nice to fool mother nature. Really I'm just amused at these terms. The English language is a wonderful thing. To form such an apt description of such a "private " procedure. Sorry couldn't help myself.

I'm guessing you can reassign in  either direction. As a man that is a chilling thought. Subtraction is more difficult than addition. I can not fathom submitting to that procedure. I'm not even going to think about that anymore ! I do wonder how that works with your birth certificate. Are you issued another with the sex of child listed as reassigned ? Or are you issued another as an attachment to the original ? What about all your other credentials ? High school diploma,College degree,drivers license, etc. ? And if I see what I think may be a suspicious person in the restroom can I ask ? Excuse me, er Maam, have you been fully reassigned ? That could make for an uncomfortable situation. As a person that does Genealogy as a hobby this gender reassignment could become quite confusing. It would alter the census records too. John Doe had three daughters in 1956 but in 1976 two of them had been reassigned. Ummm.

The bottom line for me is simple. People are going to do whatever they feel they need to do. Should they decide to reassign themselves I really don't care. Whether or not you are transgender or homosexual matters little to me. As long as you leave me alone I don't have a problem with you. Making any overt gestures or remarks to me will result in a confrontation. I will let my feelings be known. Live and let live I say. As long as your choices only effect you I'm ok with that. When your behaviors effect others or in particular me, I will take action to correct the situation.

Not that Old

I was doing a little rearranging and cleaning up when I ran across some older photographs. These pictures were from six years ago. We had taken the Grandchildren fishing. At that time I had a small skiff. It was quite small and a bit crowded with two adults and two kids. We still enjoyed it. We only went on the river and the depth of the water never exceeded five feet. Of course the kids thought it was the ocean !
Mark,the eldest, would have been six and his sister Morgan four. Looking at these pictures brought back many good memories. What I was surprised at was how difficult it was to remember them being that young. It made me smile. What a couple of cuties they were. Still are,truth be told. A lot changes in six years. Mark was wearing a pair of leather sandals. He used to wear them all the time. When I showed him the picture his reaction was, OMG I wore sandals ? He couldn't believe it. I don't think he would today. Morgans smile looks exactly the same today.
I often talk about old pictures. Usually I'm thinking about ones much older than these. Discovering these has changed my thinking. I need to visit the ones taken within the last few years. Maybe that will help to keep my memories fresh. It wasn't the boat or the fishing that I had forgotten about. It was how small the kids once were. I'm thinking I'll be pulling out some of those albums and doing a review. Maybe even framing up some more and putting them out. And I definitely need to take my own advice and start writing on the back.

Morgan,Grandpa and Mark on the Choptank 2006

Finding Comfort

Let me start by saying I am not a fan of Whitney Houston or funerals. Haven't really listened to a lot of either one. That being said I admit I did, I guess out of  morbid fascination, watch a portion of her funeral. The very first thing that struck me was the fact that it was televised. Yes, she was a star but televise her funeral ? I guess it is alright and affords her fans the opportunity to witness the ceremony.
I heard earlier that the family wanted to keep it private. A family funeral. Now that is a large family ! Looked like hundreds in attendance to me. Not at all what I would envision for a private family funeral. Televised,Private I don't think so. I understand the fact that a whole lot of celebrities are members of her family. That does present challenges. The grieving "fans" could prove to be less than respectful in their behavior.
As I watched the proceedings another thing struck me as odd. The clapping ! As I said I'm not a fan of funerals and as a result have attended very few. The ones I have attended didn't include applause. I know that in our modern times we call it a celebration of life. Call it what you will, but to me it is a solemn occasion. It seemed very strange to me to have an audience clapping after each speech or musical performance. Just what were they applauding for ? The performance or for Whitney ? As an artist I would not have wanted anyone to applaud me,the performance I offered would have been solely for Whitney. It just does not seem in keeping with the occasion. Perhaps the gathering following the actual internment would be a more appropriate venue for all that applause.
Well, to each their own. As long as the family was content with the funeral that is what is important. After all funerals are for the grieving. We all grieve in our own fashion. Personally I much prefer grieving in private. Very private. Public displays of grief or affection are not a part of my makeup. Has to do with the way you were raised. I sincerely hope her family found comfort. 

Little Details

I have a penchant for taking pictures. This was only discovered when digital photography became available to me. Before that the cost was a bit prohibitive. Now a good camera can be had and unlimited pictures taken for a few hundred dollars. No need to know how to do the f-stop thing or how to develop the film. Opps, no film. Just allow the computer to process those binary numbers.
I really enjoy taking pictures of just about anything. Especially the grand kids. Lots of shots of them. I must say I have some excellent shots. Also a lot that are less than stellar. No matter. I would have to say I'm not much of an art critic. I like what I like without regard to artist or author. I have pictures that I have taken that I believe would fall into the artsy category. I have some portraits of the kids that are as good as those you would get at the mall.
I do dabble with some programs for altering your pictures. Photosuite being the primary program. I have used  Picassa and photo shop. I find it useful for cropping the pictures,adding text and improving the visual quality.
I have learned some things about photos. Discovered there is a difference between black and white and gray scale pictures. The majority of the old photographs from my Mom are gray scale pictures. If you scan them as black and white they do not appear correct. We always called them black and white but that is not correct. I'm still not sure why that is but I really don't care. I have a couple tin type pictures and they appear to be black and white. At least that is the way they scan. Sephia is another. That's like the photos taken in old west days.
We have all heard a picture is worth a thousand words. True but I would add the words cannot be read without being written down. What I mean by that is writing some sort of time and/or description of what the picture represents. I am fascinated by the writing on the back of old photographs. I have some from my Great Grandmother. She describes in detail just what it is you're looking at. A wealth of information. On some she tells not only who the picture is of but the exact location including background buildings. IE: The white roses on the fence belong to Archie Robertson. The picture was taken at least sixty years ago but I know the roses were white and on whose fence they are. Little details.And it is the details that pique my interest.
I have said this before but it bears repeating. Write something on the back of your prints. I know it sometimes seems like,why bother, I know what it is. True, and others as well, but what about twenty years from now ? What about fifty ? I also have several very old pictures that the person is not identified. Probably some family member, but who ? No way to know for sure. Same with some scenery. Very pretty but where was/is the location ?
I just think it is wonderful that we can capture everything nowadays. Photographs,audio and even video readily available to everyone. What a wonderful thing we can leave for future generations. I would love to hear the sound of my Grandfathers voice. He passed before my birth. Or hear my Great Great Grandfather speaking of the civil war. We rarely consider the fact that yesterday is history and tomorrow the future.
We started by scratching images on the walls of our caves and have come this far. Let's not waste the opportunity. Your kids may not be too excited about it and your parents may think your nuts. What do you think your great great grandchildren would think ? They just might be a little excited, don't you think.

The picture was painted by my son and entered in the Delaware State Fair. That was over ten years ago. It hangs in my attic next to my scoop net used for crabbing. I made the simple frame for him.

Forgiveness in Death ?

You have probably seen the news story about the father killing his two sons and then blowing up the house.The same man whose wife went missing while they were camping. His missing wife's parents had gained custody of the children. A tragic tale to be sure. One can never be sure what people are capable of when presented certain circumstances. Speculation as to whether this could have been averted does nothing to diminish the act itself.
Why did this father brutally slay his children ? Was it to spare them the agony of dying in the explosion and resulting fire ? Why deny them life ?Was it solely to deny the Grandparent ?  Those answers we cannot know. What the thought process may have been doesn't alter the facts any more than their deaths ease the pain of the father. And surely one can only hope it was pain that he was feeling and not revenge when this act was committed.
Now it time for their burial. The father wished to be buried alongside his children. Family members are rejecting this. Some have purchased the adjoining plots to prevent him from being buried next to them. I can understand this reaction. What I can't decide upon, just yet, is if this is justified. Perhaps it is too soon but the question begs, " Should there be forgiveness in death ? "  On the other hand, should forgiveness be withheld for all eternity ? If you are of a religious bent the answer must ultimately be, forgiveness. Does not God promise us all forgiveness ? Should we not strive to be like him ? But then again, if you do not forgive, will not God ? These are difficult questions. Questions to ponder. There are many mysteries in life and answers we will never know. Each of us must make our choices.
If I were the Grandparents my thoughts would have to be this. My daughter is gone,missing, I do not know if she is dead or alive. I can not visit her grave. Now I must bury my Grand children. When I go to visit them I surely don't want that man lying next to them. A constant reminder of tragic events. This man took the lives of the children and may have taken the life of my daughter. I cannot find forgiveness.
Such a tragic lose of life. Why ? And do you forgive ? . 

Clever

I love reading the advertising on products. Those that write it are so creative in their descriptions. They can made almost anything sound appealing. It is obvious that they go for the immediate impulse and sometimes rely on the fact that you may not think about what it actually says. Working in the grocery store it is food products that I remember the most but the same applies to everything. Here are a few of my favorites; Kitten Food, formulated for cats of all ages. That what it says right on the bag. Also have Adult Cat food and you guessed it, it is formulated for cats of all ages. There is a refrigerated coffee creamer that contains " no dairy products " but lists milk in the ingredients. I'm a little confused. Also have butter with calcium. Isn't butter made with milk ? Doesn't milk have calcium ? I know they have been adding vitamin D to milk for a number of years now, have they been taking out the calcium ? We have a half gallon carton of " juice " that shows a fresh orange hanging on a tree limb. The morning dew is dripping off it. In very fine print on the carton it says, " contains no juice." It is an orange drink Natural and artificial colors and flavorings ! I've always been a little nervous about those artificial flavors. It never says what it is they use to obtain those flavors but then again maybe I'm better off not knowing.
I was at the deli counter and they had cheese on sale. I told the lady I would like a pound of American cheese. She says, domestic or imported ? What part of American didn't you understand. If it is made somewhere else is it really American ? Of course you could say the same about Polish sausage I suppose. I am used to the white or yellow question but that imported one threw me off. And just when did they start with the white American cheese ? And is the cheese yellow and then made white or white and then made yellow ? And just how do they do that ?
You might be feeling a little sluggish. No problem you can buy five hour energy. This product promises you five hours of energy with no crash afterwards. You can work like crazy for five hours straight and not even feel tired after. Amazing stuff, those chemicals.
I see and read these things everyday. I always get amused by them. Products shouting the fact they are made with real cheese ! It says cheese spread on the label. Beef Jerky, contains beef and beef byproducts. There's a surprise.
Next time you are shopping read the labels. I'm sure you will get a chuckle or two. Those advertisers sure are clever. Skirting the truth. I'd love to see their profile page on Facebook ! LOL

A Little Better

I was thinking just yesterday. If you ever start feeling bad about yourself, your health or appearance I have the cure. Go up to your local grocery or department store. Don't go to buy anything just go to observe. In my job I get to observe a lot. It is sometimes difficult to remained focused on putting the Cheerios on the shelf so the mind tends to wander.
I especially like watching people. I see lots of them and become grateful. Grateful that I can still walk erect while pushing a shopping cart. Many people , a lot of them quite a bit younger than I, can't seem to manage that. I was thinking arm rests should be installed. Many shuffle along bent over almost double struggling to get to the next item on their shopping list. I see others that appear lost. Blank stares on their faces they wander about going up and down the aisles over and over. On occasion these same people will just abandon their cart and leave. Happens more than you would think.
At other times I'm grateful for my education. I've had customers ask questions that defy logic. If this product is three for five dollars,how much is one ? Seriously. Apparently multiplication and division can be a real challenge for some. If this is ten for ten how much is one ? Me; yes,you can buy just one. Them; I know that ,but how much is one ?
And finally if you start feeling a little down regarding your appearance, don't ! Take a good honest look around. There is some out there that are just plain ugly ! Go ahead,admit it, you have said the same thing to yourself. Yes there are some that are just plain physically short changed. And one final thought. It is alright to make yourself feel better by looking at others. Just keep it to yourself.

Punishment

We have had a rash of break ins around Greensboro lately. The Post Office (twice) , the drug store,a restaurant, and a food store. A few other places as well. A total of about eleven burglaries. Big doings around these parts where we don't have much crime. The other day at 3:30 in the morning he was caught red handed. Taken into custody without incident. Going before the Judge a slew of charges were presented. Among them the break ins at the Post Office, a federal offense. He was released on his own recognizance. The reasoning ? No prior offense !
Call me a hardliner but that reasoning doesn't cut water with me. This person is a thief. He was caught red handed, dead to rights. No doubt about it. Not like it was an accident or something. He didn't just accidently break into the post office and take peoples mail. I fail to see why he is not being punished. The trial and sentencing will take a long period of time. We all know how that goes nowadays. In the meantime he is free to come and go as he pleases.
And so the message being sent is this, if it is your first offense, or a series of offenses committed for the first time, it is not as bad. We still trust you. Excuse me but my trust in you was broken the minute I discovered you were a thief ! You should have no expectations that it would be otherwise.
I don't know the details of the case. The reason he was breaking in and stealing things. I really don't care either. I am tired of making excuses for these misfits. If he wanted drugs, I don't care. Was it for money, I don't care. I will imprison you ! I will get your attention.
I see no point in making laws and not enforcing them. In this case there is no doubt. Why the hesitation ? It's alright, it is the first time he did this, at least that we know of. When he flees from justice will that also be the case ? Well, he never did that before !
We need to send a clear message to those that would commit crimes. You will be punished ! The first time, every time. I'm sick of these Judges afraid to pass Judgement. That's what your job is. Enforce the laws ! Like raising children a firm hand is required. If you don't have the intenstinal fortitude to do that you have no business on the bench,

A Silent Sentinel

Not long ago someone posted a picture of the lighthouse at Montauk Point, New York. It was an exceptional shot. Once again I was reminded what a lovely and scenic place the east end of Long Island can be. For a brief period in time I was transported. Back to the 1960's and my home there. Back to a time when these sights were a every day thing. Also sights you didn't see often because you weren't really looking.
Risking everything I copied this picture to my computer. I didn't see any copyright so I assume it was in the public domain. I put it on my computer as a desktop background. I even printed it and sent it to my sister. I didn't claim ownership or anything so I'm hoping that was okay.
Seeing that Lighthouse brought back another memory. Down to a place called Cedar Point there was an old lighthouse. I could remember seeing it as a kid. A large house,made of Granite,and the lighthouse rose out of one corner. It wasn't occupied and the light didn't function. The actual light had been moved to a steel structure a little father out in the bay. I recall looking at that place and thinking how cool it would be to live there. Surrounded by the bay and kept company by the gulls. I wasn't allowed to walk out there to where it stood. It was private property and not to be trespassed upon. This was back in a day when people actually respected this. I got to thinking about this lost light and realized how little I knew about it. So I googled it.
I quickly learned that cedar point was settled in 1651. The light,as it stands today,was built in 1868. The tower is forty feet high. It's light last shone from that tower in 1934. My Mom would have been five years old at the time.The purpose of this light was to guide ships into Sag Harbor. Primarily,whaling ships in it's heyday.
My own ancestors were whalers. I could imagine Great Great Grandfather Abraham seeing that light from the deck of his ship and being thankful to have made it home safely. Abraham made seven voyages around the horn in search of whales. These voyages lasted years and that solitary beacon signaled the end to the voyage. His brother Oliver also chased the elusive whales. How many of my ancestors passed this very same light I can not know. A good majority of them were baymen and would have passed this light. If only the granite could release it's secrets.
An effort has been started to renovate this historic lighthouse. The cost is high but the reward will be great. The interior was destroyed by fire set by vandals. The light needs to be replaced in the tower. I hope one day to see this light flicked on once again. A small piece of the past preserved. A reminder to man.

The silent sentinel, what secrets does it hold ?

Winners and Losers

Went to the indoor soccer game yesterday. My Grandson plays and I go to support his athletic endeavors. I have been there for T-Ball,little league and outdoor soccer. I do enjoy watching all the children play. Not because of the exercise they get, but to watch their development. The skills will come with practice but it is the character development that is most important. And in that category I am at odds with today's thinking. For the most part the score is not officially kept. There are no winners and losers. At least that is the rhetoric I'm hearing. Check with the kids however and they pretty much know the score.
My opinion is that the score should indeed be kept. I don't see where teaching children about winning and losing is a bad thing. Doesn't that happen to each of us everyday ? How this line of reasoning came to be is a mystery to me. Wasn't like that when I was growing up. Games were played and the score was kept. Sometimes you won and sometimes you lost. Sure, I was told the purpose of playing the game was to have fun. Didn't take me long to figure out that winning was a whole lot more fun than losing. The result was I tried a little harder. It didn't ruin my life. What I did learn was some kids could play ball better than I, some could excel in academics and not everyone is the same. I had to learn to deal with that reality. I learned those lessons at a early age. I learned I may not be a star, but I can still be a part of the team.
In each of the sports the Grandson participates they have a tournament at the end of the season. Whether you had a winning or losing season doesn't matter. Remember no score is kept. So it is possible that the team that has won all season long can lose the tournament and receive nothing. What does that teach them. Hard work and dedication over a long period of time is not necessary ! Play a few games at the end of the season and you can be champs. Wrong message if you ask me.
Yes you may be sparing their feelings right now but at what cost ? The world is a hard and cruel place. Those around you will not always be your family,friends and teammates. You had best teach them to accept that reality and quickly. Of equal importance is to teach them to deal with loss. Whether it is the loss of a game or the loss of something else, acceptance is key. The " it's not fair " syndrome is rampant in this country. Life isn't fair and no one promised it would be. We,as a society, made rules to keep things as fair as possible. But those same rules do not ensure success. That is a lesson to be learned and accepted. The sooner the better.

Geez,who knew ?

Just an observation. Funny how quickly Obama changed his opinion and policy on the birth control issue. Wouldn't have anything to do with it being an election year would it ? Now if we could only get the lawmakers to act that quickly on other policies. Of course from what I hear he just shifted the responsibility to the insurance company. If the employer doesn't wish to pay for that benefit the insurance carrier will be compelled to provide the pills at no cost. Right ! The insurance company is not going to change the cost of their policies to account for that. I can see that. Kind of a catch twenty two.
The president and his cronies must think we are really stupid. Does it make any difference if the bill says birth control pills or toe nail clipping ? The insurance carrier is going to charge something,somewhere. You know it,I know it and I'm sure the president knows it ! If you can compel insurance companies to provide services free of charge our whole medical crisis would be solved. The insurance companies will just pay for it !
The central issue is the Catholic church refuses to pay for something they consider immoral. I respect that. Whether they pay directly or indirectly makes no difference. The government has no business forcing this on them. One should remember this is the same administration that provided illegal guns to dope dealers ! The result there was getting some of our own agents shot with the same guns. What one has to do with the other I'm not sure but it does. Does this administration feel they are above the constitution ?  And just what are our elected lawmakers thinking about ?
The american public got the President to act quickly on this. Why ? Because he felt his re election chances were being damaged. It had nothing to do with anything else. If we,the American voting public, could get the same message across to all those in Washington we could get real change. Let the bums know we mean business !
There is an old adage, " never discuss religion and politics. " That is true because there is nothing like those two subjects to stir things up. Obama just found that out. Apparently he doesn't have any strong religious convictions. His choice. 

Incentives

The car show is being held in Baltimore. All the manufacturers displaying their latest offerings. I have never been to one and most likely will never attend. Looks like fun but I'm not much on window shopping. I rarely admire those things that I know I can't afford. I don't feel as bad that way. What you don't know won't hurt you. In my opinion most of the cars look pretty much alike these days. Stylistically there is little to be excited about.
I hear the ads on television. Cross overs and hybrids seem to be the rage. Going green. I can remember going from station wagons to mini vans. That was a big deal back in the day. Then the SUV's.  The sport utility vehicle. Good name don't you think ? Sounds impressive. And now we have arrived at the hybrid. Sounds a bit unnatural to me. Not a bad idea though. Our energy dependence is not a good thing. We need to explore alternatives. We were supposed to have flying cars in suitcases by now ! I hear about cross overs but am not real sure just what it is they are crossing.
I hear tell a hybrid can be had for 25 thousand or so. Incentives are being offered. Special financing and interest rates. Isn't that always the way. For those that can afford to buy new vehicles, breaks are being given. For those of us that have to struggle along with what we have, nothing. It is not only new cars but most everything else is that way. If I can afford to spend several thousands of dollars upgrading the insulation value in my home, tax break. If I can barely afford oil to heat it, my problem. And so it goes. Those that have,get more. Those that struggle,keep struggling. And then you have the freeloaders ! I won't go there this morning.
I do get a little annoyed with the pitchmen. They make it seem as though if you are not buying a new hybrid car you are responsible for the destruction of the environment. They say what an inexpensive proposition it really is. You can get them and a tax break too ! Why aren't you ? Run right out and go into debt for another twenty thousand plus. I'm happy for those that can. I'm just thinking that maybe some incentives and breaks ought to be offered to the average working family. You know,those that aren't on welfare and those that don't make a six figure income.
Ok,got that out of my system this morning. What's the point ? No point Just expressing an opinion.

Choices

I keep hearing about a policy the government wants to institute requiring the Catholic church to provide birth control coverage in their health plans. This is contrary to the beliefs held by the Catholic church. The church has stated they will not comply and will just not offer health insurance coverage at all. I would have to agree with the church. The government has no place in Church policy. But for me it is a much broader issue. For me it comes down to employer rights. We always hear about the rights of the workers. What about the employer ? Call me crazy but I think they have rights as well. In a nutshell I feel this way, if you are the one signing my paycheck you have the right to expect and or demand certain things. As long as these demands and expectations are clearly spelled out beforehand I see no problem. If I do not like the terms and conditions of employment I do not have to accept the position ! 

Yes, there are abuses. Unions were formed to address those issues. Great gains were made. In the beginning it was necessary and to a certain degree it still is. Akin to locks I would say. Only there to keep honest people honest ! 

Now the government wants to force a religious group to fund actions contrary to their faith ! Didn't this same government rule we could not make women of the Muslim faith remove their headgear ? Their reasoning, it would violate their religious freedom. Why does this not apply to the Catholic church as well ? I heard a few protesters saying their daughters worked for the Catholic church and needed this coverage. They were concerned without the coverage to buy birth control pills they would get pregnant. I know a no cost solution to that problem ! Abstinence. Works every time and is 100% effective. Also effective against SDS.

Sounds like a win/win situation to me.

It all sounds to me like another case of, let's not hold people responsible for their actions. Instead we will fund their mistakes. The government was not formed to provide relief to those that are irresponsible in their behaviors. Nor is it the place of the government to force employers to provide what I would consider unnecessary services. An employer should be compelled to provide a safe,healthy and prejudice free workplace. Reasonable hours and a reasonable wage. Access to basic health coverage is a plus. That is pretty much the limit of the employers responsibilities.

Now the government is playing the role of bully. Either you comply or we remove funding. In this case tax exempt status. The church has little option other than to offer no coverage at all. Make all positions part time and avoid the expense altogether. The ones protesting,demanding this coverage are only hurting themselves. If I were working for the church isn't it reasonable to assume I should comply with their doctrine ? Should I chose not to that is a personal choice. It does not mean I should force them to fund my actions.

Bottom line, if you are not happy with your employer or the health plans they offer, leave ! Simple as that.

Those People

Have you ever noticed how difficult life can be for others ? I'm not talking about those that are living with a handicap or some form of  physical disability. No these are apparently normal people in every respect, with one exception. Every task they go to perform is an effort.
I noticed this while waiting to get a cup of coffee at the local convenience store. This is a small store and only has one set of coffee pots. This person was attempting to pour a cup of coffee. First while trying to get the cup out of the dispenser a whole stack comes out. Finally managing this task the first pot he grabs doesn't have enough coffee in it. Set that one down and grab another. Now to add sugar and cream. Getting those packages open wasn't the smoothest of operations. Then to find a stir stick (right there next to the sugar pack). Putting the plastic lid on was also a major engineering feat for this individual. All this while blocking the coffee pot like a defensive tackle protecting the quarterback !
I have seen these poor souls everywhere. At the checkout counter trying to write a check. Pens don't write and the checks rips when being removed from the book. Their cards never swipe in the machine. They trip and stumble over the tiniest things. These are the same people that get home to discover they have left their groceries in the cart. (Happens all the time)
Yes for some life is a struggle. Everyday things are obstacles to these persons. There is no explanation for this phenomena either. Often times, if speaking with these folks, they are intelligent and well meaning. They are trying their very best,yet things always go awry for them. I try to be patient and understanding when I encounter them. It is not their fault. It is what life has handed them. 

Privately Public

I just saw on the news that a group of women are protesting against Facebook. It would seem they are upset that Facebook removed their photographs. The pictures were of them breastfeeding their children. Facebook has a nudity policy and they removed them in accordance with that policy.
The news spoke with one lady whose contention is that breastfeeding a baby is just that and doesn't fall under the nudity clause. She also felt that breastfeeding was nothing of a sexual nature and just a natural function.
I would have to agree with her on all counts. I understand the reasoning but don't understand the need to share. I, for one, do not want to see that. It is a private thing between a mother and child. Just because we all know that  is what is done, it doesn't need to be displayed publicly. We all have other bodily functions that are one hundred percent natural and non sexual but I wouldn't want to see those publicly either !
What I think we have here is a lack of empathy. I ,for one, would not deliberately do anything to make others uncomfortable. It is a little thing called respect and caring. The proper thing to do is excuse oneself and take care of business. As far as pictures on Facebook, that  is pretty much public. A little discretion please.
This isn't the first instance of this issue making the news. There were women wanting to breastfeed at the McDonalds,the mall and other public places. Yes, I understand it is a natural thing. Had it been something we were all exposed to since birth it would not be an issue. In some European countries they have co-ed restrooms. Not a problem for them, but a problem for me !
The bottom line for me is this; show a little common sense. Feeding your child is an essential thing. It is not necessary to do it in a public forum. I would have to question the reasoning behind photographing this event. For what purpose ? Seems a little creepy to me.

On the downside

Now would be a good time for my fifteen minutes of fame. They say everyone gets theirs and I'm still waiting. I have been feeling a little depressed and low as of late. A little fame just might cheer me up. I can honestly say I haven't had my fifteen yet. At least I don't think I have.
Oh I've had some high points that's for sure. I've had a few moments. Didn't someone write a song about that ? Moments ? Think so and I don't want to be accused of plagiarism. So that thought or idea is not really my own.
Darn,that is also depressing. Why didn't I think of that earlier ? Could've written a great song or thought provoking essay. Oh well I'll just keep typing.
I hear about things going viral these days. Sounds like a disease. In reality it is a good thing, most of the time. Social media can provide you with fame and fortune. That very well may be where your fifteen minutes comes from. I think that is an amazing thing. There are literally thousands, if not millions of videos and yet somehow one will catch on. An obscure person somewhere in the world makes a video and posts it. Somehow it gets viewed and goes viral ! There are hundreds of thousands of people writing blogs like mine. I have looked and there are people in foreign countries that have read some of my postings ! Amazing. How or why would someone in say Russia find and read my blog ?
We all want to be remembered. We would all like to think we made a difference. Isn't that what fame is all about ? Isn't that why most "stars" have such huge egos ? Ego is the driving force. It is related to desire. The two go hand in hand. Either one can get out of hand. Every one of us needs our ego stroked on occasion. We all need our desires fulfilled. It is when those two things become insatiable that it becomes an issue.
So my ego is feeling a little neglected. They say knowing the problem is half the battle. I'll get through this little patch alright.I feel a little better just writing about it. This too, will pass. I'll try to remain optimistic. I could go viral at any time. Become the guru of the internet. I am good at giving advice !

A Small Town Boy

Yesterday I made a very rare trip to the Dover shopping mall. The wife had a specific shop in mind for a very specific item. I think the last time I was in the mall was over the holidays. I remember it being a crowded place with people just bustling about. I remember thinking the whole time, I hate this place !

On this trip the mall wasn't nearly as busy. The concourse was fairly free and could be walked without saying " excuse me " every two seconds. All of the shop fronts were visible. It was a different experience altogether. I did find myself looking at the objects in the windows that were being offered for sale. Mostly clothing. Everything offered was so hip and modern. Six inch heels in neon colors and all matter of outlandish outfits. I guess it is what the kids wear. I noticed cell phones were offered both in shops and in booths in the center of the concourse. They seemed to be doing a brisk business. 

As I walked along and looked at all this merchandise it struck me what a materialistic society we have become. I felt like a hillbilly in Beverly hills. All the flash and glitter. Clothing that was of little practical value. I could only imagine wearing some of those outfits to single occasion events. The materials they were constructed of didn't appear to be very durable either. I couldn't help but notice how some of the younger crowd was staring at these offerings with what could only be described as; coveting the item. Covet strikes me as the only word strong enough, barring the word lust. It was an unsettling feeling.

Yesterdays trip to the mall was an eye opener for me. I have never liked the mall because I really don't like crowds or shopping. Now I can add one more reason for not going. It shows the seedy underbelly of our society. Materialistic and self centered. We are becoming so self absorbed in our own image that we are losing sight of what is really important. We are a society turning inwards. I have been seeing the signs of this for some time.

There are some things I have learned with age. One is to have comfortable shoes. For those that may remember, Earth Shoes fit the bill.

Buy clothing made of durable materials like denim,cotton or wool. Don't buy anything too trendy.

Stick with the basics ! This is very important. The basic in anything is always the best. The less there is, the lower the cost and the more durable it is.

Don't be so concerned with what is hip, it'll change !

I think I could live a minimalist type of lifestyle. Just the basics. A computer and internet access is basic you know. LOL I have seen pictures of lovely little cabins set in the woods. The people living in them living off the fruit of the land. The only problem I have with that is is this, in order to live a minimalist lifestyle one would have to have a minimum of money in the bank. I've got the minimum alright and it isn't enough ! So that isn't going to happen. 

The truth of the matter is this. I went to the mall. I didn't like what I saw. Guess I'm just a small town boy and always will be. 

Thoughts on Valentines

Soon it will be Valentines day. The pressure is on. Men everywhere are reminding themselves over and over. Don't forget,Don't forget. Anxiety is setting in. Yet, in the end more than one will screw it up. Either by forgetting altogether or by getting some totally lame gift. A Hallmark card with all the appropriate words of love and devotion is required. Most men hate that and it is a little embarrassing to buy them. The clerks,usually female, always seem to know what the card says and give you that look. How sweet ! Yeah,yeah can we just get on with the sale.
I remember when I was in grade school. We all made a " mailbox " in the shape of a heart  for the other students to put your valentines in. Back in my day we weren't required to give everyone a valentine, only those that you chose to. That has apparently changed over the years and you must give to all. Speaking with some of my younger co-workers they were surprised to learn that not everyone received an equal number of valentines,back in the day. It was a tough world I grew up in. Mom always encouraged me to give to everyone. I had to write them all out but I now confess not all made it to the classroom ! There were some I just didn't like.
We have all heard of St. Valentine but the real story is lost to time. There were several St Valentines  in fact. All were martyred. This happened back in the Roman times. Somewhere in history another Valentine was linked with romantic love. Valentines day was an official Catholic feast day. The Pope removed it from the Catholic calender in 1969. I didn't know that. But I don't practice Catholicism either.
In a round about way I guess you could say Valentines day has always been about love. In the beginning those that were martyred for the love of God. And in modern times the love between a man and a women, although that too might change,but I digress. At any rate the love you profess on St. Valentines day should be a love you are willing to die for. Now that I know the gravity of this situation I had best get to the Hallmark store,pronto !

A sweet obsession

There was a doctor on television discussing the obesity problem in America. Obviously a learned man he spoke with great knowledge and eloquence. He was explaining how the body metabolizes sugar. It was his contention that it is sugar that is in the forefront of this weight issue. I was listening closely and he had me engaged fully until he made this statement, " the government should regulate the sale of sugar just as they do drugs and alcohol ! "
Did I hear that right ? I find myself leaning toward the set to be sure I heard that right. Yes,that is what he said alright.
At this point he lost all creditably with me. Must be some kind of nut. Regulate sugar ? Why not regulate Twinkies and ice cream. I get what he was trying to say. We do tend to go a little overboard with sugar and all the products it is a part of. America does have a sweet tooth. But to suggest the solution is government intervention is just ridiculous. I have never heard of anyone harming anyone while on a sugar high,except for kids driving their parents a little crazy. This gentleman spent some time making a point about government regulation of sugar. He was serious in this proposal.
Vision of sugar pushers came to mind. Hooded people hiding in the alleys, psst, want some sugar dude ? Lives ruined in pursuit of that granulated substance. White or brown and the ultimate prize 10X. I could see this was going to cause some serious problems should his proposal come to fruition.
I am baffled why anyone would think the government should try to regulate something like sugar. It is not an additive substance. To the best of my knowledge it doesn't effect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Should you choose to consume more of it than is healthy whose fault is that ? Certainly it is not a failure on the governments part. Should the government issue ration coupons for big Macs ? Control those fatty foods. Why doesn't this man figure it is a personal responsibility to control your own dietary intake ? I just don't know. I do see more and more of this reaction though. It is the governments fault !
If people used the amount of time and energy it takes to find fault and applied it to finding a solution we would all be better off ! The government doesn't need to be involved .

Thinking about Grandma

 I was remembering going to her house and the things you would find there. Things not so easily found today at Grandmas. Things like a flat iron. If you are not of a certain age you may not even know what a flat iron is. No, I'm not talking about a flat iron for your hair. I mean the one used to iron clothes. Grandma had a whole bunch of them. I remember them sitting on the coal stove getting warmed for use. Hers were all cast iron and she would use a pot holder to pick them up.
On that old well worn kitchen floor was linoleum. The seam where the two pieces met in the center of the room was covered with a brass strip of metal. I spent many a hour tacking that down so Grandma wouldn't trip on it. At least that is what Grandma always said. By the age of seven or so you could barely see the metal for the tack heads.
An oil cloth covered her dining room table.A nondescript faded yellow with fringe trim. In the corner of the parlor was a door. You opened this door to go upstairs. You don't see that much anymore. A door at the foot of the stairs.
Around the back of the house was the woodpile. A sawn length of timber stood on end with an ax in it. Grandma told me to keep the blade sunk into the wood to prevent rusting. A smaller pile of discarded cedar shingles set to one side. The local builders would drop them off  to be used as kindling. Attached to the rear wall of the house was the coal box. I  remember the coal man delivering that coal and dumping it into the box. What a dusty,dirty job that was. He would back that truck up and just tilt the bed a little bit.Using a coal shovel he would then fill the box.
Grandma also had "bluing " No it wasn't for gun barrels. It was used to whiten the whites. Sheets,pillow cases and such. Bars of Octagon soap were used to get the clothes clean. Washing was done in the wash tub with the scrub board. You would be hard pressed to find any Grandmas with any of those items today.
Oh yeah,she had a sprinkle bottle too. Know what that is ? Could be any bottle you wanted. Just put the sprinkle stopper in the top of the bottle and you're ready. Ready to do what ? Why iron clothes of course. The sprinkle bottle wet the clothes before ironing to remove wrinkles. Think steam iron.
She had a peculator coffee pot and a wood/coal burning stove. She had a pantry. I'm pretty sure she had a boot jack. The back door leading into the kitchen was called " the back stoop ". I don't think she had a front one. The front door was never opened when I was there.
I spent many hours with Grandma. She was always working, doing other peoples laundry. She was a great baker and would, time permitting, make wonderful pastries. Looking back at Grandmas house is like looking at a Norman Rockwell painting. There was one thing you could always find at Grandmas house that you can still find at any Grandmas house today : Love.
 She raised ten children of her own and I'm not sure how many Grand children and Great Grand Children. A quiet little lady with gray hair worn in a bun. Always in her house dress and apron. Slippers on her feet. Her grip was firm and her eyes piercing. I never heard her complain or wish for anything other than what she had. She had come to America from Sweden. Sent to care for a sick Aunt. She spent most of her life washing clothes and caring for children. I'm sure that isn't what she expected. I often wonder what her dreams were.
What hopes and aspirations did she harbor ? When next I see her, I'll be sure to ask.

Just Ramblin'

It's all getting a little bit too casual for me. Not that I'm a stickler for convention or necessarily agree with Miss Manners but a return to a little more formality is in order. I'm watching the candidates in their blue jeans and now they are singing. The thing is, the jeans don't fit and they can't sing ! How am I supposed to take them seriously ?
I know this isn't anything new, Bill Clinton played saxophone on the tonight show and the Governor of Maryland is in a rock band. O'Malleys' March I think it is called and yes CD's are available.
It is just that I want my presidential candidates to be a bit more presidential. I know it is all about getting the votes. I know that has to do with appearance. But for me it just isn't working. Seems real phony to me. I can't help but wonder if these guys go to work in blue jeans ? And holding office is going to work for them. I wouldn't apply for a job as a roofer wearing a three piece suit ! I read an article once about preparing for a job interview and they clearly state, " dress as though you were going to work that day. " I don't want my president going to work in baggy blue jeans, shirt sleeves and loafers ! At least not where I can see him/her.
I can only assume the voters they are trying to appeal too are from a different generation than mine. Perhaps a younger generation doesn't care. That is probably the case. A lot of the younger crowd show a lack of respect. It is not their fault,it is what they were taught. Too much free wheeling from the Woodstock crowd. I can speak to that as I am part of that generation. I didn't buy into all that and didn't raise my children that way.
It is all a part of a growing trend. The country in general has gone less formal or is it less civilized ? I'm beginning to think the two terms may be interchangeable. It is getting to be more of an anything goes type of society. One need only take a good look around to see that.
Call me an old fuddy duddy or whatever but I see the country going down hill. A lack of a moral compass and proper decorum being the prime motivators. There are factions trying to remove God from our nation. Our current President is decrying " Economic Equality ",( code for socialism), men marrying men and lots of other examples. Just take a good look, and listen to what is being said. We are in trouble people.
I'm sure all this has been said before. I remain hopeful that the country will regain its' compass. Often times however it is extremely difficult to regain ones footing once you start down the slippery slope. Let's all be careful where we step !