2024, a New Year or a repeat?

 As the clock flips over to a new year, and the news media reminds us of  the local and world events that happened over the last 12 months, all the people who died, and the advancements we have made, I too reflect back on my last year.

 I have never really made new year resolutions that I knew I'd never keep. I think we keep making the same ones each year and half hearted make them sound more obtainable like losing weight and getting back in shape.  I guess it sounds good but never comes to reality. But I have made one PROMISE to myself to TRY to be a better person, to advocate searching the truth, to do things that make people feel good about themselves, and to help people anyway I can. OK, I guess that is more than one promise.

But I have one big fault, I stop associating with people that do bad things to others.  And as the bible says, "Love thy enemy." That is very hard for me to do. You see, I have the knack to see through people who do things for their own benefit and welfare. Whether it be lying, stealing or blaming their own bad deed on others. They are not only being untrue to others, but also to themselves. They know who they are, and so do I.

For the last few three years, we have heard about the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and the misinformation about the 2020 election being stolen, the insurrection and attack of the Capitol, The southern US borders being overrunned by people wanting to enter, and now the conflict in the Middle East. We hear about these things so often, ear start to turn down the sound in our heads. Our world and our country is in conflict. I don't blame outer space aliens for not coming to earth because the way we treat each other.

Our late fire chief said it simply, and to the point, "BE NICE". I think we are all judged by our deeds, how we treat others, and the words we speak. Not how rich, powerful or influential you are.

I am hoping for some major things to happen next year. The cure for the common cold, the cure for Cancer and Alzheimer's, climate change is reverse for the good, people learn how to use the turn signals and become more courteous, food prices go down along with gas. I know, those probably won't happen but I can hope. I've got a few more wishes, but I'll keep those to myself.

Folks, it's a group effort to make 2024 better than 2023. Losing weight and getting back into shape are good resolutions so don't stop doing those, but we really need your help. Little acts of kindness goes a long way. And maybe that act will encourage the next people, and the next, and the next. We can only hope and try.

So celebrate the coming of a new year, make those resolutions and add one more to BE NICE to others. Happy healthy and better New Year to you all!

Traditions is what we believe to be right or wrong.

 After visiting a few countries steeped in traditions, much like our own country, my mind started wondering (like it does constantly) about my and our traditions we live with daily. Now, don't get me wrong, traditions are not always bad … most of the time. And really, what is a tradition? The way we dress, the food we eat, the way we speak to others?  According to Webster it is  a 'Time honored and trusted practice or set of standards practiced from one generation to the next.' That's about right, won't you agree?

Anytime I think about traditions, I think about times from my past like Christmas morning and ripping gifts open, or Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends, or the way many people spend so much time cooking a big holiday meal just to have it eaten in 20 minutes. I guess you could say holidays are very traditional.

One story comes to mind about traditions goes this way; A young girl asked her mother why shy cut a roast in half before putting it in the oven, Mom said, Because my mother did it that way. So the little girl asked her grandmother the same question and the grandmother said, Because my mother did it. So the girl went to her great-grandmother and asked her, and se said, Because I could not afford a larger pan. And a tradition was born.

But traditions don't have to be about food or holidays. They can be about cruelty, abuse, hate and anger. Sometimes that becomes a standard in families and in a culture. A home of abuse usually breeds abuse. A father or mother's believes sometimes pass on to the children and maybe to their children. Because my Dad carries a gun, I want to. Because my friends believe one thing, I believe it too. Bad traditions are hard to erase from minds. People are more likely to remember bad things than good. That is the downfall of humans. We will listen intensely to a bad side about something, and sort of listen to the good side. Thus the point I want to make about the state of our country and the world today.

There is a very thin line between disagreement and anger, and also government and the church. Some people agree that religion should not be involved with government, but it is, and in  big way. Our Constitution forbids it and says, there should be a separation between church and state. I am a strong believer in the Constitution and the far sight our forefathers had. I agree it is not perfect but it is what our country was built on and has been looked at for many, many other countries as right and good. But now, certain people want to get rid of the Constitution, get rid of anyone that does not look like them and put one person into office that is a power hungry like Hitler was in the 30s and 40s. 

Our country has been a model to SO many others for open arms, economy, opportunity and dreams of a better life for more than about 250 years. That is called Democracy and freedom. It is not by any means perfect, but the best that has come along for centuries. We fought for freedom from the British, we fought against a dictator when he wanted to rule the world in WWII  as he slaughtered Jews and anyone who disagreed to his believes. Is that what you want? I don't.

What I am asking you is to keep our well trusted traditions intact by voting for the trusted people to represent us in a truly democratic manner, without any self interest, and ONLY the voice of the people, not their personal believes in mind. Do your research and vote your conscience to save and keep our democracy.

Happy Holidays, stay safe and take care.

Please leave your point of view and comments here,

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We have lost too many … needlessly

Our world, including the USA, has seen too many epidemics. Polio, flu's, Tuberculosis and Covid 19. But there is one the we DON'T hear enough about that is preventable unlike some of the others, Suicide.  As in every life lost situation, it effects people around that person who kills themselves. But in this scenario it is in a negative way. Many times the family wants to deny the death happened as it did. Sometimes the family plans for a funeral is hidden from the public in shame.  The CDC has reported suicide takes the lives of Americans 132 times EVERY DAY! That is a national epidemic. That is 48,180 Individuals each year. 

Why do people take their life? It is very complicated. Some times it is caused by a divorce or separation, maybe a lose of a job, loneness, drugs, bullying, poverty, lose of self-esteem, lose of self-convince or worth, and so many other reasons. Thousands of people deal with suicidal tendencies daily. Maybe have tried to kill themselves several times, but have been stopped before it was too late and lost their courage to complete the job. As a firefighter, I have seen the result of a suicide failed attempt and success. It is sad either way.

I must admit, I have had a period in my life I considered suicide. But after really reaching down deep in my soul I realized it was not me, and I had so much more I had to offer to myself and others. Plus I also realized I did not have the courage to finish that horrible step.

I have had colleagues who have taken their lives and it crushed their families and friends. They ask, "Why?" Imagine finding that friend or relative after that person took their life. Imaging the mental trauma it leaves them in for so many years. And the stigma that surrounds that family or friends in the future. "Oh, your father is the one who killed himself." That just keeps on hurting deep down inside.

Teens who feel like they are not popular or 'cool' get bulled so much they feel they don't want to continue living anymore. They feel they don't have friends, or maybe they can not afford to dress cool or have a different look to them. Other teens tease them constantly to the breaking point of no return. Their parents don't recognize the symptoms and then come home to a tragedy. It literally tears a family apart and cause divorces and anger between parents and their surviving siblings.

What is used for a suicide? Number one is guns, drugs is number two. This is why we ALL must look for those suicidal tendencies of not eating, increased anger, keeping to themselves, quietness and not talking about their lives, especially personal things like boys, girls, friends and school. Parents need to secure their guns and stay more in tune to the behavior of your children. Mental illness can also be an issue. Yes, trust them but talk to them a lot. It is, maybe, a stage of life, but one that should be monitored closely with gentle hands.

But it is not just about teens and children, adults too. Some adults feel they have no self-worth too. The same symptoms carry over to adults too.

We all have to help with this epidemic, and we can with little or no education except to care about not losing lives.

Suicide can be a hard bone to chew on, along with everything else us humans have to deal with. The Federal government finally saw what is happening and sat-up a hotline for anyone to use fi they are thinking about it. 988 is the suicide hotline. Trained and caring people man this line 24/7. Use it! It works.

Take care and stay safe.

Portugal and Spain trip (The Iberian country)

We recently returned from a trip to Portugal and Spain. We learned how the two countries were conquered by several different countries and cultures. First was some Germanic tribes, then Morocco (the Moors), then came the Romans, and finally the Catholic crusaders for the church, which is still pretty much the culture today.

We landed into Lisbon Portugal where we stayed for 3 days. A very large city of small alleyways and steep hills.

Then off to across the border to Spain, after a brief stop in Évora to learn about those beautiful hand painted tiles. Traveling can be a pain in a bus, but ours had WIFI. Next stop was Carmona and some wonderful Roman ruins with an amphitheater, which is still used today.

Remnants of the Roman structures was everywhere, from the columns to the arched aqueducts crossing over the modern streets.

Then to romantic Seville for a day trip. Visiting and grand plaza built in 1929 for the Pan-American Expo the year the stock market crashed causing it to be a total disaster, but it is gorgeous with its tall spirals, hand craved stone columns and beautiful painted tile mosaics.

Stay a couple nights in a converted Castle fort perched high on a hill overlooking the small town was unbelievable. One of many hotels we would stay in that totally blew our socks off.

Next stop, Ronda, after stops at an olive farm and a 2000 acre ranch that raises bulls for bullfighting. Very controversial topic, even in Spain. If you did not know, Spain is the largest producer of olive oil in the world. Much of the olive oil marketed by Italy comes from Spain, Read your labels. 

As we drove through the countryside toward U'beda, there was nothing but rolling hills and a sea of olive trees. After a short stop in Cordova to tour a gigantic (250,000 Muslim Mosque built by the Moors, when the Catholic crusaders (Templars) took over the country and built a cathedral in the middle of it. Amazing! The Mosque must have been to beautiful to tear down.

We continued our trip northeast toward Toledo (not Ohio) for the next few nights and finally the long flight back to the states. Toledo is an extremely old city located in a river valley surrounded by very old houses, churches and military armories.

Our trip to Portugal and Spain was amazing, informative and in some aspects eye opening to their history. Both countries were world powers in their day, mainly on the oceans. The people, like other countries we have visited, were over run by countries and forced to change their culture in many ways. Now they are a mixture of all they were. Each invading country left its mark from architecture, to food, to religion and imbedded into the present culture of Portugal and Spain. 

There is so much more I could write and photos I could photo but it would be a blur. We loved the trip and the people on our 16 day trip, but were so glad (as always) to be home and see our bed.

Take care, stay safe.

Oh snap!

 After getting home from a whirlwind 17 days of travel in Portugal and Spain, we realized, "Oh, Thanksgiving is in just a couple days." Jet lag from nearly 20 hours in transient, and washing all the dirty clothes, catching up with all the daily stuff you do when you are home normally, the day has been a little busy and still sleepy. The pilot of our airline announced as we landed in Phoenix, "Welcome to Phoenix, the current temperature is 75 degrees and the current time is 6:45 PM, so now you can enjoy the same evening for the second time." All of us sleepyheads had to thing for a second, oh yeah, we left Europe 7 or 8 hours before. Ah-h-h!

A Mosque that was built in the 1400s and then the Catholic church took it over and built a cathedral in the center of the 250,000 square foot Mosque.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays of the year. Getting together with family and friends to break bread and over eating (like we haven't already done that on our trip), is a blessing in itself. But that is really why I love Thanksgiving. Nancy and I have been very blessed to go to SO many countries, talk to the native people and hear what their lives are like, eat with them, sing and dance with them, immerse our lives into theirs and learn their cultures, trying to understand them deeply. This trip was no different. And yes, the be able to do these trips is a great blessing in itself.

But our blessings does not stop there. We both are thankful for all of our family members, great friends, our past jobs and the people we worked with and enjoyed. All the great times and sad times we had with them. Life has been VERY good to us both.

With anyone, there are always ups and downs in your life. Some remember just the downs, we think of the ups, and look around to see what we have. Not just 'things' like houses, cars and money, but family and friends and relationships. That is what we ALL should be thankful for. 

All that we have means nothing if you don't have friends, family and relationships in your life. One of the best gifts I had when we got home was a big sloppy lick from our curly haired dog, so glad to see us. We were SO glad to see him too, just like our bed.

So on Thanksgiving Day, say thank you for all you have, not what you want, WHAT YOU HAVE. After you think about all you have, you may feel pretty blessed too.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone, share your love, take care and stay safe. God bless.

                             More photos of our trip posted later after I get them sorted.

It's been a busy couple weeks, and it is going to get busier.

Yep, here it is the middle of October, and I feel I am running out of time to do the things I wanted to do before the end of the year. Nancy hikes nearly daily preparing to go on trips with her "Tribe" (the friends she hikes with), or she quilts beautiful quilts for friends and family.  I am usually in my shop working on cars for myself or others from full restorations to ground up builds to modifications. And now in our 70s, I think we both are slowing down somewhat. You know, that old person life of more doctor visits and less time to play. Of course we both stay up to date on our health care, but things pop up unexpectedly. 

A few days ago, we returned from flying to Arkansas to see our oldest grandson, in his freshman year at Henderson State University. He is doing great and loves the campus life. A swim team member and majoring in Aviation to become a commercial pilot. Cody does not have much free time.  He has become a man at 19 years old and a handsome 6'5", with his head screwed on tight, he has set his goals in life and is determined to achieve them. Yes, we are very proud of him and our other 6 grandkids. God has blessed us truly.

After a few days visit, we drove five hours north to Springfield Missouri for an overnight visit with two of my cousin who have some heath problems, and then flew home.

Washed the dirty clothes and get ready for another trip to Portugal and Spain in two weeks. Busy weeks for us, but the world does not care about our busy life, it's been busy too.

As the war in Ukraine roams on, another conflict breaks out in the Middle East. As long as I can remember there have always been conflicts and wars and it seems the United States has been involved one way or another. Whether it is about religion, ‎ethnicity, color of someone's skin, oil, control of the government or greed, there will NEVER be total peace on earth. I, and I am sure you want you grand children to live in a world of peace, but I fear they will not.

I was sort of a hot headed kid growing up who had his share of fighting at the drop of a hat. Now as a 'senior citizen' (as they call us) I still get anger when I hear or see someone disrespected because they may seem different or have different briefs. We are ALL different in our own ways and we should ALL respect that and except it. People, I believe, just shoot their off the opinions without thinking about the effect it has on the children or other around them. And if it is a bad or hurtful statement, that thought sticks in people's minds and gets repeated over and over and over again until others begin to believe it. Hate spreads like a wildfire before we know it. By then the hate becomes, what people believe, as the truth.  But it is a lie. In a way, the old saying from the 60s, "Make love instead of war" should be brought back as "Love instead of war and hate". So all we can do is try to be good, kind, peaceful and compassionate people and hopefully it will spread to others.

If we all could only be as loving as dogs with unconditional love. I just look into my dog Cooper's eyes and see it. Take care, stay safe and be nice to others.

A bunch of nothing to some, but hits the nail for others.

Maybe I am weird, but as I said before, I see and notice things probably most people don't really think about. I find some things odd, other weird, some I ask why, and still others I see as interesting.

The other day, Nancy and I were at the grocery shopping for food. I won't say the name. Anyway, we walked all over and my wife is very thorough to check and compare prices. I guess most men are not. So we collected what we needed, and some I stealthily dropped into the basket, so we preceded to the checkout. Keep in mind, Nancy and I both worked in the grocery business for many years. I noticed there was only two cashiers open while the rest of the cash registers were "self check". Now I know if I only have a few items, self check is quicker and saves time. I get it. But only two cashiers to slowly slide your items across a scanner while 7 people stay there and watch and tap their feet in frustration asking, "WHY AREN'T THERE MORE CASHIERS OPENING?"

Well this morning, I read an article stating I am not the only one who noticed self checks are being installed is ALL stores. Wal-Mart, Kroger, Safeway, Home Depot, Lowe's, Kohl's, and many, many more. Hey cashiers, they are killing your jobs!

I stopped into our local mini Wal-Mart after it's remodel and noticed they doubled the number of self checks and reduced the number of cashier spots by half. I am sorry, but I do not agree will the big chains wanting more money at the cost of people pushed out of their jobs. That is Just not right. At least in our small town Wal-Mart, a lot of the employees are semi-retired, single moms, immigrants, students, or senior citizens. Some want an extra income, other than social security or a small pension, some want a descent living here, some are just getting started after graduation, or divorce. It does not matter, they want a job.

I guess I have always been a loud mouth for fairness and honesty, but it doesn't seem the world wants to play that game. It is more, I got mine, you fight each other for yours.

I was in the corporate world long enough to see big companies have stock holders and they always want a profit, no matter who suffers. That's exactly why unions were created a century ago. To get fair wages and hold jobs. But even they stated to get too big for their pants. So where is the middle? In my mind it has to be fair wages for fair pricing and fair profits. But who determines that? Maybe if I had a few more years and the authority to say what is right for all. But I don't. But all of us do. I have been known the tell the cashiers (once I find one) "You know, they are killing your jobs." Some get it, and others blow me off, or reply with a statement management told them.

Anyway, you the consumer should speak up for those who are being replaced with a scanner or a dismissal. We have plenty of people that want and need jobs, even starting at a low wage.

OK, I am done ---- for now. I hope you leave your opinions and thoughts. I'd be interested in your feeling about this. But until the next time "take care and stay safe".

Self realization

 Yes, I am back. No I did not forget to post a new blog. I just wanted to have something, I felt, needed to be said. maybe get something off my chest or maybe a brief history of a trip. Anyway, you get the drift.

This week I am not going to write something about a guru in a white robe who teaches some weird out of this world philosophy about Nirvana utopia. But I am going to write about reality in our world. And maybe a little history.

Tomorrow is the 22nd anniversary of the attack on the United States and New York City. I know, we all saw it replaying time after time after time. Probably more than we liked and maybe just wanted to turn everything off, curl up on the fetal position and make believe it did not really happen. Well it did. And the worse thing is that besides losing more than 3,000 people, it effected ALL of us in one shape or another. Many of us knew someone that did not make it. Those of us who travel, have had to wait longer to get into airports, get in some hotels, endure security checks over and over again. It caused our government to start more that a half dozen new organizations and offices, and give more power to others. It all gets so annoying that some U.S. citizens are moving to other countries and starting over. The attack caused several Arab countries to turn against the USA after we retaliated and pissed of some of our allies. I believe the attack resulted in the beginning of what we see today as a split in our country over political party differences more that before the attack. I believe the attack brought back old  feelings about World War II and the hate for Japanese and other Asian people, racial factions against black, brown, and any color skin you may be other than white. Yeah, this all happened before the attack, but since it has grown exponentially. Mass shootings have gone crazy in place you would never imagined before. No one trusts anyone.

It all seems pretty grim, right? Well I don't think we have to be this way. I am all for protecting our country, family and friends, and I'd be the first to fight someone who tries to hurt the country and my loved ones. But besides that, I want people to greet EVERYONE with a firm hand shake, or hug and a big smile, no matter who. It is harder to spread love than hatred. It take more of an effort to spread love that hatred, but we must try. And before you know it, it becomes second nature, like it should. That love, kindness will spread from one, and to another, and another. People who use religion as a reason to kill or imprisonment is just wrong. God did not put us on earth to kill each other. "Love thy neighbor" as it reads in the commandments, no matter what religion you believe in. Give it a try, believe me, you'll gain more friends and it will make you feel good too.

One last thing I want to say. If you have not been following Nancy's travel with our daughter and three friends (they call themselves the 'Tribe') across the West Highlands Trail in Scotland, it has been amazing and surprising too. A total of 35 miles in 4 days in those remote beautiful rolling hills where my ancestors lived centuries ago. I am so proud of Nancy, our daughter and her friends. AND on day of hiking, two of our friends tied the marital knot on the trial, and wore the bridal grown hiking, for 4 miles. That was truly awesome. Congrats to the newly weds and to the TRIBE.

Be kind, be nice, and take care of each other.

Be appreciative of what you have.

I read a book years ago,  written by a young lieutenant in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. In the book was a letter the young man wrote to his wife about the battle he was in and eventually had one of his legs amputated due to a gun shot wound. In those times, his leg could not be saved. In his letter, he wrote the tale of his injury in detail and in the next paragraph he expressed his deepest and personal feelings about his circumstances. "My darling wife. I am laying in this horrible field hospital on a board covered with only a bloody sheet. The pain is excruciating after the surgeon  cut off my leg. I lay here feeling sorry for myself because I have only one leg, and then I look to the side and there is a soldier laying next to me with no legs at all."

That passage has stuck with me for years, and the appreciation the young lieutenant showed for simply being alive eventho his injury and lose of his leg. That single passage has changed my way of appreciating events in my life, eventho they may have made me sad or angry. 

We ALL go through times that are hard, painful and hurt. But I believe those bad times make us stronger so we can endure what follows, whether good or bad.  So we have to keep our heads up and keep climbing that mountain for our dreams. Yes, every time we fall, we get scares, and I have had a few. Visible and non-visible.

I recently saw an interview featuring Michael J. Fox, the actor, who is suffering from late stages of Parkinson's Disease. Through the entire interview he spoke about his mantra, "Gratitude and Optimism." He is grateful for living as long as he has with his lovely wife and true friends who support him, and he has optimism that some day soon his misery will help others find a cure for that horrible disease.

I always remember living in the Midwest when I was younger. We'd make plans for an outing or a picnic and it would rain, which blew our plans. Here in the western states, we pray for rain and sometimes go walking in it. Mainly because of the lengthy drought we have been in. Nancy and I have been at the Grand Canyon when it started to rain. We kept on walking around as the other visitors run for cover. We did have an umbrella. We loved it, and laughed.

Neil DeGrasse, noted scientist, once told a story about an interview with the late J. Robert Oppenheimer, key figure in the development of the atomic bomb. He was asked, "Why did you volunteer to head up the program to build the atomic bomb and don't you feel guilty.?"  He answered by saying, "If God did not want a bomb, he would not made the atom."  Oppenheim did question the bomb and his role as he stated years later, "I am death, the destroyer of worlds." But as an employee of the US Army, and his job and objective was to build a bomb to end the war. And then they disgraced and disrespected him in many ways. You veterans can relate to that.

Now that I have shared my thoughts about appreciation, tell me about your struggles to achieve your dreams, and your final successes

Take care, stay safe and keep on climbing.

These are some of the things I love ... and Don't love.

This is the weekend we celebrate our freedom from Great Britain in 1776. Eventho the Declaration of Independence was really signed on August 2, not July 4th.  Ok, enough of the history lesson Harrold.

Being a free country and having the opportunity to do basically what we want (as long as it legal) is a great privilege. Many people take for granite. I don't. I have learned to appreciate and cherish things in my life. Allow me to list a few.

1. Hearing my grand kids laugh as they play.
2. Watching a movie that makes me laugh so hard, it hurts.
3. Watching a movie that makes me tear up.
4. Watching the sunrise.
5. Watching the sunset.
6. Watching rain fall.
7. Watching a rainbow appear.
8. Looking into my dog's eyes as he lays his head in my lap.
9. Hearing the birds sing early in the morning.
10. Cuddling a newly born baby.

Those were just a few things I love and find precious. But I am sad to say there are things I DO NOT like.

1. People who twist the truth to gain something for themselves.
2. People who can not see the facts for what they really are, the truth.
3. Thieves
4. People who prey on others, especially the elderly.
5. Inconsiderate and obviously self-centered people.

Our freedom and democracy is not something that comes easily. Many, many countries model themselves after our form of democracy. I am not saying it is perfect, but it does work. It is something we ALL have to help with. Understanding the law and how things work is part of being a responsible, law-abiding citizen, anyone living and visiting in the USA. Just as we would have to do in other countries. Of course we can challenge the law. That is our right as citizens. But when you twist the truth, and lie about the facts, that my friends is not being responsible. The drawback of telling the twisted facts over and over again is, people start believing it, unfortunately. Honest people don't twist the facts for their own benefit.

We have a badly divided country, and the words of a very smart man, "United we stand, but divided we fall."

So on this 4th of July weekend, go have fun, shoot of some fireworks, eat some hot dogs and hamburgers, and wave our stars and stripes for continued freedom in our country.

As another humble and wise man said, "There are three things people need, someone to love, something to do, and something to hope for."  so stated Tom Bodett of the Motel 6 commercials. I hope for our democracy to continue forever.  HAPPY 4Th of July!!!

Have you ever noticed? You might want to pay attention to this.

Nancy always tells me, "You notice things other people really don't think are important"  Well that could be true. But I believe this is something the next generation may be interested in. 

I have noticed, over the past few years, a growing increase of commercials dealing with aging and our aging population. Not only in the U.S., but globally. Well yeah, advertisers focus on the biggest population because they want more people to buy their product. That's just good business. But they are hitting it hard on the elderly, retired folks. And I AM one of them! The TV ads usually run in the late afternoon into evening and then they shift to the younger generation. Still adults but younger. 

Yes, we are getting older, and not as agile as we use to be. But, injury attorneys, reverse mortgages, life insurance, stair lifts, and walk-in tubs, all portrayed by an elderly person which looks to be in pretty good shape. I guess seniors do watch more TV in the afternoon before dinner time, so that would be why they are aired. I personally watch the hot rod shows. 

As we continue to age, more advertisers and other people like scammers will target us to get our hard earned retirement money we have stashed away.

The global population is getting older every year, accord to world census records. In 2020 17.3 of the U.S. over 60 population was 7.3%. But it is projected that is 2040 it will number 22%, and 50.4% of them today are females. That is out of the 2020 census stating the U.S. population was 331,449,281.

People retired now do not contribute to Social Security or Medicare, but do draw from it. That means the younger generation must work longer to keep (retirees) checks coming. The elderly go to doctors and hospitals more that the younger generations. We buy more medications, eat out more, buy less clothing, travel more (for a time), watch more TV and read/watch the news more than younger generations. But, we are also more susceptible to  illnesses, anxiety, depression and sometimes suicide. Many retirees go back to work due to inflation, stock market losses, or becoming a caregiver for a loved one.

Everyone, being a retiree, knows first hand getting old is not fun and hell to get out of bed in the morning sometimes. But, next to our parents generation, we are one of the hardest working, kick aside the bad times, fierce fighting generation I have ever been a part off. Like our parents, we have had the hard times and made the best from it and pushed forward, with the understanding we made a few mistakes on the way.

I know I am getting older, but my 'wine' is just getting better with age. And I don't plan to slow down soon. I hope you don't plan to either. We ARE part of that gray society and we should be proud of what and who we are, no matter what those commercials tell us we should buy and do. Stay strong, stay safe and take care of each other. Could someone help me with my soapbox, my back hurts.😊

It is just not right

Were you ever discriminated against, as a child, teen, adult, or applied for a job, or heard talk behind your back that you were not right because you were born with, or did something in your life. I was. As a young child having blonde hair, fair skin and a little pudgy, I was picked on ... until I learned to fight back. Not always physically, but mentally. I just learned to let it 'roll off my back'. Of course there were times I had to defend myself, and I began to do that quite well.

We have many friends that are different from us the caucasian middle class, married to the opposite sex, and some would say the idea case of the NORMAL couple. I don't see it that way.

I tell everyone, "I am are colorblind." And even tho we see all of the differences between people, but it does not matter to us. It not even a second thought. But some people can not, or will not, see other people as equals. There is single word for that. It is DISCRIMINATION ! 

Discrimination is when someone is joked about, shunned, paid less than their counterparts or co-workers, insulted, bullied, threatened, intimidated, prejudicial distinction, assaulted, and the worse murdered.

People do these things because they grew up in a negative environment, or stereotype anyone because of the race, color, religion, age, sex nation origin, marital status political affiliation, weight, height or disability. or maybe it is just because they did not like the way you dress, or your tattoos, hair color, or they just looked at them wrong. Who know? No matter what the reason is, it is wrong legally and morally.

I hear time and time again about a person who does not get the same pay as their co-workers in the same position, bullied, spoken bad about by someone who is negative toward that person is some way. That is wrong.

People should be judged on their actions and abilities, not on the things I mentioned before. I heard about a lady who is a 15 year quadropedic, in a wheelchair. She and her husband had beautiful twin girls about 3 years ago. She not only helps raise the girls, but also holds down a full time job from home. She received emails and text about she was not capable to raise those girls because of her condition. Like any good parents, they both are involved in the upbringing of the girls in the best environment. People should ashamed of themselves to even thinking that. I think the lady is a great parent.

If we would just close ours, we ALL would look alike.  Next time you feel even a little bit judgmental, think about what other people think when they look at you. I hope just another human trying to serve off their time on this earth. Take care and stay safe.

Memorial Day

 Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day until 1966, when the late President Lyndon Johnson changed the name on the anniversary of its beginning back on May 30th, 1866. A day to show respect to the fallen soldiers of the Union Army in the Civil War.

Today we still celebrate our service men and women. It is the recognize their sacrifice for our freedom in the United States, but also for other countries. Yes, some died for and in other countries to help them fight for freedom too. Percentage wise, there are more veterans buried in France than on American soil. But the French people honor them as well, along with their own.

Before the name change, many people thought of the holiday as a day you honor everyone deceased. I remember, as a child, taking flowers to my relative's grave sites and remembering things I recalled about them. I believe some of my relatives still do. Which is not a bad thing, but it shows they are not forgotten and treasure their lives and love for them.

As a veteran myself, this day means a lot to me. While serving in foreign countries, I saw their citizens decorating WWII American graves and honoring them with music, salutes, and tears. This goes on in many countries all over the world. Believe it or not, many countries appreciate the sacrifice we have made to help them keep the peace and freedom in the world. There are a few countries believe we should not be there, and keep our noses out of their business. Of course, that maybe true in some cases.

The total point of the day we have tomorrow is to honor the service people that lost their lives serving our country, in an effort to keep us ALL free and without repression. 

Many people fly the stars and stripes only on Memorial Day to show their support. I fly the flag 24-7-365 to show my pride and support all year long. My believe is when you are an American, natural or by immigration, you should always support the country and always show your respect for the ones who fought for us, and died. You may not support the government policies, but support those who wear the uniform.

I have a strong heritage of ancestors who served in the american military starting with my 4 or 5 times Great grandfather Arnold Schell (Shell) who fought for our country's liberation from the British, and up to myself. He immigrated from Europe as a child in 1750. Since then, every male in the Shell family, with the exception of one, served in the military. Nancy's father also served, as did many of cousins.

So while many will celebrate this three day weekend by going to a lake or river, grilling hamburgers, hot dogs and eating watermelon and corn on the cob or having a cold one. Many cemeteries will have hundreds of small flags planted on the graves of vets honoring their service and sacrifice. I, my family and a few friends, will be joining the crowd by grilling, maybe play some 'Corn Hole', and even a cold one, but still thinking about the ones before us who served this country for freedom and liberty. 

Take care, stay safe, and take a moment to remember them.

  

Happy Mother's Day

A day for Mom. Maybe we should have more of these days for mothers, since they play such an important part in our lives. A lot of people praise their mothers for all the strength and fortitude they had raising children, sometime alone without a husband's help. Many talk about the mothers who did without to give to their children, whether it be food, clothing and/or a home.

I want to tell you a little bit about one of those mothers, who raised her only child on very little income, and always with a smile and kind touch. This mother married and medically discharged Navy sailor right after WW2. A man from Kentucky and this lady from Alabama were not unlike most people of that era, not much education, but willing to work hard to get their feet rooted and begin their family. A child was born almost immediately and they found a small apartment in a low income housing development. From there they gained money for the essentials and moved to an upstairs attic apartment in a growing neighborhood. The child grew strong and started school a few blocks away. He thought he had the best childhood ever. But the father had wandering eyes and eventually the parents split. 

The mother, never wanting to let the child see her pain and go through the divorce process, so she sent the child to live with her parents on a farm in Alabama. Phone calls and letters were few and far between due to the lack of money the mother had. after nearly a year, the child was sent for by the mother to return to her. It was a joyous reunion, but with an understanding that funds were slim, the child had to be strong because he would be on his own while the mother worked in a low paying job, an elevator operator in an upscale department store in downtown Cincinnati.

The mother moved them from one apartment to another apartment for several years, trying to get them in a better neighborhood at a price she could afford. Sometimes living there for only a month or two. The child suffered by going to 5 different schools in one year. The mother did what she could, but assisting with the child's school homework was not her thing, only having an 8th grade education herself. 

The mother continued to tell the child things will get better and they would get out of the low income apartments and into a better neighborhood. Of course the child believed his loving mother, except he knew that would not happen until a hardworking man came into the picture.

Now, this the same scenario we hear about from many single divorced mothers struggling from day to day, making the best out of nothing mainly for the kids. That is what mothers do. It is a motherly instinct to take care of the children before yourself. Right? If there holes in the kids socks, you sew the holes up. If their very little food, the mother eats less so the kids can have more. You do what you can to make the ends meet. It is built into mothers, and most fathers, if the are the main parent.

Mother's day is a little sad for me because mother has been gone for several years. I miss the phone calls to tell her how much I love her and wish her Happy Mother's day or birthday. She was alway caring and loving to me. Sometime too much for me (as tears come to my eyes).

I regret the few times I spoke too harsh to her as I grew up and finally understood what parenthood was really like. My mother had very few skills or education, but she was rich with love, caring, and more love. Plus, she was a GREAT cook. In her final years, she took a job cooking for the prisoners at her local jail, and the prisoner called he "MOM".

My mother finally found a good man to marry and they lived their later years into retirement, happily in Alabama.

And you probably guessed it, the story is about my mother and me. A hero in my mind and a very loving mother. I miss you Mom. Happy Mother's Day to all of you mothers for all you give up for your children and all those kisses you embarrass us with in front of our friends as kids.

And to all the mother that no longer with us, you will NEVER forgotten and we will ALWAYS be loved.

                                                            My late mother at 81. 

NO one is perfect

 I have lived quite a long time. That just means I am old, BUT that never stopped me from trying something new. I may not achieve my effort the first time, or the second, or the third, and maybe ten times more, but I don't quit.

Now believe me, I am not the model of a success story. Many things I have tried I never succeeded at. I never was good at sports, except maybe boxing for a short time. I write because I like to, but I am not great. I was a firefighter for more than two and a half decades, but I think I was average. Now I build cars, but I am sure I could get better. I hope I have been a good father and husband, but again I could be better. There some people that a good at (almost) everything they try. I am not that. I do take pride that I tried and never qit at anything I wanted to do.

I believe everyone has a purpose in life, to do one thing really well. Some can do several things well. And we envy them for that. We all wish we could play great baseball, or run a marathon, or act in Hollywood, or write a great novel, or paint an impressive painting that people love. Maybe, just maybe you could if you try, and try, and try over, and over again. Failure are the stepping stones to success. As one person told me, "Anyone who has not failed hundreds of times and give up, will never succeed their dream in life." And Einstein said,"Without failure, the sweetness of success, will never be tasted." 

No one likes failure, and everyone love success. But one does not exist without the other. I know people now that are afraid to try new things because they are not sure about themselves, or will not take the time to try. Of course we have to proceed with caution, but if you can not bring yourself to take that leap and have confidence in your abilities, well, then that honey of success will never reach your lips. Failure makes you stronger and builds that confidence IF you let it. 

There are other factors too. You must listen to the people who encourage you, who give you hope, and support you efforts. No someone calls you a loser, or beats you down with words of despair. I was lucky to have a few teachers in high school that stuck with me when I tried to reach a goal. I always wanted to be an artist, and my art teacher really encouraged me to keep my creativity going as I improved. She was just one of the people let guided me to try and never quit at no matter what I wanted to achieve. I never became an artist, but I did put the artistic ability in to other dimensions and skills.

I think you should be proud of your failures. That is just a sign of a strong person. Everyone loves a winner, but we should also root for the loser to win the next time. Losers will eventually become the winner and taste that honey. I may have not tasted the honey all that many times, but when I did, it was SO-O-O sweet. Take care and stay safe.

Spring has sprung and ...

 Flowers are blooming, bees are buzzing and the pollen and allergies are EVERYWHERE! Yes, I am one of the million folks who suffer from allergies. I have a love hate affair with Spring. I love the season for the warmth it brings, but I hate sneezing, itchy eyes, coughing and wiping my nose every few minutes.

A few years ago, I actually had to have surgery to remove a couple polyps. Which was miserable too. And then no problems for years. But now, with all the rain we got here in Arizona, all the symptoms are back with a fury.

No one likes being sick, especially me. I get a little out of sorts, maybe a bit gumpy, hard of hearing because my head is all stopped up. My nose get raw from blowing my nose constantly, my eye itch so much I want to rip into them with my nails. I have a pile of over-the-counter meds that do absolutely nothing to stop my pain. The doctor does not have any appointment for two months. I'll be dead by then. It's embarrassing to go into a store or business for the fear people will walk WAY around me for afraid of catching my misery. It makes you feel like laying on the couch in the fetal position and moaning. But then my dog will come over and lick me, as tho he think it makes me feel better. And it does ... somewhat. Nancy just says, "Suck it up" No pity from her.

I think men have less tolerance for pain and being sick than women. After all women go through a lot of pain during childbirth, and they are the ones who nurse us wimps and our children. But every once in a while it would be nice to hear a, "Haa, pretty baby." from her.

Seriously though, Spring is a good season, and I am exaggerating a little. But allergy suffers are crazy here in Arizona, and everywhere plants grow, dogs and cat live, and dust is blown around. I am sure the cavemen suffered too.

I may have used up two big boxes of tissues and a dozen handkerchiefs over the last 2 weeks, I am glad Spring is here, EXCEPT, I know what follows Spring in Arizona. A very hot summer!

Anyway, enough of my bubbling about allergies. Spring is here and we should enjoy the beauty of the green lust desert while we can, before it turns brown for summer. 

You'll have the excuse me now. I need to get a clean handkerchief and pop a few more allergy pills. Take care and stay, stay. ACHOO! Sorry. safe.

Certain things irritates me. How about you?

I think we all have certain things that really bugs us, almost to the point of blowing our stack. As a MUCH younger person, I was sort of a hot head, which I regret. But as I aged, I guess I mellowed out some. But I have to say, there are some times I lose my 'cool'. I don't mean anything like road rage or physically harming anyone. Just muttering about an idiot or saying something to myself about someone when I am in the car by myself.

People that shoot off their mouth with their opinion before they look around, or maybe don't care who they hurt or insult. Unfortunately that maybe considered a form of 'bullying' and being judgmental. Both are unexceptable. Bullying is a major cause for many teen and adolescent suicides. No matter how you classify it, it's just not right. Just because someone may seem slow, or dress different, or speak different, or anything other than what you think is correct, it does not give you the right to judge them, or influence others to judge them. 

It's not only bullying that irritates me, but age discrimination, sexual harassment, prejudice against other races and nationalities, religious beliefs, sexual preferences, body piercings and tattoos, or their color of hair. They are ALL WRONG!

Ok now, let me be clear, I dislike all of those but, when people threaten someone's life or property, that I will say something about. Case in point, erratic, inconsiderate and irrational  drivers. I guess that is why I dislike driving in big cities. Everyone is in a rush. And the things people do while driving drives me insane. It's not only talking on their phone, but feeding their child in a car seat in the back seat? Getting dressed, putting makeup on while looking in the rear view mirror, shaving, and of course texting. The stop sign reads and means STOP! Not coast through. The biggest comment the Police officers get is "I am late."  Start earlier folks. Sorry, not an adequate excuse. Non-usage of turn signal use is another of my pet peeves. 

Here's one for you, how much do we see or hear advertising? We are overloaded with advertisements. Not only on billboards, radio and TV commercials, newspaper ads, internet, social media, on the side of buses, cars, trucks, on T-shirts, jackets, on uniforms. We even collect advertisements. How many "Coca-Cola" articles do you have in your home? 'Lady Bird Johnson' (the late President Lyndon B. Johnson's wife)  tried to eliminate advertisement signage from the highways back the late 70s. That did not last long.

All-n-all, I must sound like a really angry person, but actually I am not. Just had to get something off my chest. We are not different (in that respect) than any other country in the world, maybe not as bad. I get it, our society is still a work in progress, and that some things we just live with and except it for being daily living, but I don't have to like it. And neither do you. Maybe if we start with ourselves and display good judgement in front of our children and other adults, they'll get the message and straighten their act too. Let's hope.

So go back to the 35 minutes of that one hour long TV show, and disregard the crazy driver who cut you off a minute ago, and don't pay any attention to the jerk who mouths off about the election being robbed. It's just everyday life. 

"Never judge a man (person) by the way they look or the clothes they wear. Judge them by their words and their actions toward others. Only God has the final say for all of us."   Anonymous

When does an individual become family?

We all are born with a family. And, sometimes we have extended family members, or marital family, or people who feel like family and you want to trade them for your original family. Those all have happened to me, and I am sure you have been touch by that also.

As some of you may know, I took on a restoration an all original 1965 Malibu Super Sport. The man who brought it over, trains protection dogs for celebrities, sport stars and other people with money and NOT folks in my tax bracket. This man and I agreed to trade skills and now he is training our 7 month old Goldendoodle (Cooper), and I work on his car. The agreement has been good for both parties, but Cooper is smarter than Nancy and I. So the training has become train the owners of Cooper, which is interesting. 

Besides being very cute or handsome, he also know how to play us well. Ok, let me stop here and backup a little. Cooper IS NOT going to be a guard or attack dog. Nancy has decided to have him be a 'therapy dog'. So when we get through the obedience part, sit, down, heel and place (go to his bed), he will be taught to greet people, let them love on him and make them happy and loved too. He is a real people dog.

But I am off point here. Cooper, in his short time with us, has picked up on our weaknesses and how to do things he wants, and look cute doing them. He is a player. Like dropping is tennis ball and kicking it under the couch or chair, so we have to get down on the floor and reach for it. Meanwhile he liens down and give us a juicy lick with the remains of his last water bowl visit still in his beard. Oh yeah, his a player.

Sometimes he is stubborn and just lays when he knows he should sit or heel. As he is being walked, he'll come to a stop, look at passing cars and then glance at me as if to say, "Do you like that car Dad?" Oh yeah, he's a player.

But the thing that got me as the trainer trains us is, "They are like a 4 year old children." It really hit home and flashbacks to our young children stubborn days, and how they played us too.

But all-in-all, Cooper is doing great, and the guy car is doing well too. The trainer has told us  Cooper is as smart, if not smarter that the dogs he sells for $75K or more to celebrities. he says we are very lucky to have a dog that catches on to commands so quickly. I hope Nancy and I can keep up with Cooper.

Cooper bonded with nancy right away. i am just a playmate. But either way, Cooper is family now. His dog tag even says COOPER SHELL. 

One thing that was apparent right away was that Cooper loves his tennis ball and fetching them is his joy and rewards, along with his torn-up stuffed toys. 

Cooper Shell ... too darn smart and too handsome for his own good. But is is family and loved.

Cooper in his favorite place of relaxation and listening to us.

What is in a name?

I get deliveries from Amazon, UPS, FedEx, and of course, the Post Office, neary daily.  Mostly car parts or just stuff we really don't want to drive to the store and get ourselves. Ok, call us lazy. But after a day of hiking 7-9 miles like Nancy, and me crawling in and out from under cars, yeah, we're tired.  But back to the topic.

As I greet the delivery person, I sometimes think about how we greet people we really don't know. I have had several people address my as 'BOSS'. That sort of hurts, especially if it is a black person. It sounds as if I may have been a descendant of a slave owner. Obviously I don't  say anything, but I would rather not be called that. Mister (Mr.), or Mr. Shell, or Sir, or just plain Harrold does it for me. I am not a BOSS to anyone. Certainly not the drivers.

Some females dislike the term "Ma'am". I honest call many females Ma'am. That was the way my mother taught me the address a lady/woman. "Yes or No Ma'am". For men it was "Yes or No Sir". It really does not matter if the person is older or younger, I believe it just shows respect to an unknown person to you. How about calling a lady "Miss or Mrs' even when you don't know her marital status. I have some correct me on that too. We had neighbors, when I was very young, we called Ms. Kelley or Mr. Kelley. One day, their grandson, and my playmate, harsly corrected me. "Why do you call my grandmother Ms. Kelley? That is my grandfather's first name." I bluntly asked, "What should I call them?" That was the only names I knew to call them.

I guess the prefix we hang on someone comes from farther back than we realize. We you were raised in the South, Southwest or a rural area, their prefixes are probably in your normal vocabulary. And come out naturally, like me. Even if I am on the phone talking to someone I can not see, I address them in those ways.

I twice sat next to the late Senator John McCain at banquets and I addressed him as Senator McCain or Mr. McCain until he told me, "Just call me John." I liked that. It was clear how I was to address him. Of course I would only call him that in private, not in a crowd.

To me, names are a way to, not only address people, but also signify who or what they represent. Doctor, Professor, Chairperson, Chief, Mayor etc. It also tell you things about that person or  company or event you automatically recognize. If I mentioned Microsoft, or Pepsi, or McDonald's, you would automatically recognize that company. That is called a 'brand', and so are those prefixes we hang on people. Sometimes they like that brand, and sometimes they don't. I guess sometimes it may be best to NOT give someone a prefix at all. A simple 'Yes' or 'No' suffices. Sometimes just hearing a name brings images, feelings or emotions. 

That happened to me a couple weeks ago. I was at a gathering at a fire department conference when the name Joe Woyjeck came up. Joe is the father of one of the 19 firefighters who perished in the Yarnell Hill fire in 2013. A wildland fire that nature turned ugly and took the lives if 19 brave firefighters. Kevin, his son, was only 19 and the youngest.

I quickly sought out Joe and renewed our friendship and mutual topic of losing a son. Over lunch, we both discussed what we were doing since that horrible day in June for him, and February 2015 for me, and our retirements from the fire departments. Joe from L.A. County, and me from Phoenix. Friends and family don't need prefixes. Prefixes are for unknowns or to show respect. But if someone corrects you, don't take it personal. We all have a way we like to be addressed or known.  Take care, stay safe and ... just call me Harrold.

Love

On this Sunday morning (and a topic I stole from a CBS show), I thought it would be appropriate to talk about the topic of "LOVE", since Valentine's Day is two days away. What is the meaning of love? Well, that has been defined and discussed so many times over the centuries, I can't keep up. But according to the Oxford Language Dictionary, "An intense feeling of deep affection" or  "A great interest and pleasure in something", or "Like or enjoy very much" And the symbol of love is always a heart, but your heart doesn't see love, it's your brain that tells you that you love something or someone.

Love is a very complex feeling we can never truly understand fully. And the word love is used in conversations way too easily. "I love ice cream", or "I love going to the movies" ,or  "I love Tom Cruise". 

But there is another side to love, it is called 'heartbreak'. And I don't believe there is anyone who has not experienced both emotions with one event. A marriage and then later a breakup. A birth and then a death. A beloved pet, and then the pet passes. There is no love without a heartbreak somewhere. I believe it makes us stronger in the long run.

Let's take a marriage. Can anyone say a marriage is easy? No. It is work, a long term commitment of give and take and compromise. I know, I've been there, and it is especially hard when both people are Type A  strong willed personalities. No marriage is smooth sailing, and neither are friendships, but the love shared is what holds the whole thing together.  Love is a thing we all want, but can not always get, in the form we wish. It is not alway like a 'Hallmark' movie. 

There are literally hundreds of songs written about love and heartbreaks, especially in Country Western music. There is probably something about a pickup truck and a dog in there too.

I could probably go on, and on, and on, about the topic of love, but I won't because we all know what it is, and how we deal with it.  But, before I close this very short blog edition, just remember the words written for a song by the late Burt Bacharach and sang by Dionne Warwick, "What this world needs now is love sweet love, it's the only thing that there's just too little of..."  I believe love is a mural partnership through the road you take. One gives as the other compromises and the next time it goes in reverse. Whether is in a marriage, politics, a friendship, in business or having a pet. Compromise, trust, truthfulness and loyalty are the key ingredients to keep that relationship strong and bonded. Take one away and all will tumble apart.

Happy Valentine's Day to you all. Take care and stay safe.