Tis the Season for giving and thankfulness?

 In less than two weeks, Christmas will be upon us all... or Hanukkah or Kwanzaa or what ever holiday you believe in, we wish you all a safe and blessed Happy Holiday. With all the crowded stores, people hustling around carrying arms of  boxes of recently credit charged gifts, maybe driving faster than normal to get their shopping quickly along with the patients wearing thinner and anger raising, as the one finger salutes waving as they cut you off in traffic. All the tension climbs through the roofs, people change into ogres of hate and egomaniacs with harsh words anytime someone crosses them. Well, maybe not all that, but sometimes it feels that way. 

The holidays season is suppose to be a time of rejoicing, happiness and thankfulness. At least that is the way it is advertised. With children sliding down snow covered hills, adults sitting around a fire laughing and drinking hot coco and dressed up in their new puffer jackets and ski boots. But unfortunately it isn't always that way. I wish it was. The reality is some people forgot what those up coming holidays were designed for, and what they celebrate. It is not the lights all over your house, and the inflated Santa in the yard, or buying electronic gifts, or wiz-bang toys, or socks for dad, or that sweater you bought for someone that they will never wear it. Christmas is A LOT more than that. It is about praise, thankfulness, compassion, friendliness, greeting strangers with a firm handshake and smiles and worship. Maybe I am just too old fashion and dam old. But I remember what Christmas and the holiday season use-to-be like. It was sort of like going to grandma house with the whole family, having all of us sitting down at her big table and having a meal, eating too much and then gathering by the Christmas tree and exchanging small inexpensive gifts people really appreciated with laughter, stories and jokes.

The gift giving came from the three wise men who came to pay tribute to Jesus.  Their descendants probably became Amazon, Macy's and Target owners. Maybe if we all spent a day dishing out food at he local homeless shelter, or helped a needy family, or just stopped to help someone else during this coming season. Who knows it might just put a different light on your Christmas. And take you kids so they can see the other side of the street, and what it is like to sleep on the street or not have enough food for a Christmas dinner. Every year I try to help at least one person I know is hurting. It makes me feel good and worth the smiles on their faces that some stranger cares for them in at least a little way.

I just lost a cousin I called after so many years not talking, because I let my own world consume days. But when just a call cheered him up so much, it made me feel good too. I wish I had called more.

Anyway, Happy holidays to you all. As my late Fire Chief said, "Be Nice, be kind and care for others." We talk more after the first of the year.

A new vehicle plus my view on our society and leader. (if you want to call him that..)

I bet you thought this meant a new car, huh? No, it's a new camper 5th wheel. Since we got rid of our other 5th wheel 4 years ago, I have never really been truly happy with the two travel trailers we owned. They were nice but not with all the things the 5th wheel has. So I did a lot of research on line and visited RV dealer to check them out. I loved but hated running from the sales people and always gave them my wrong name and phone number. (I guess they may be mad at me now. I don't care.😆) 

Finally I came across the 5th wheel that checked all of my boxes like length and options like solar, weight, charging, comfort and décor. Not that I am a designer freak or anything. I just wanted on light and airy with lots of storage. Plus, the end price was a top point too. 

So without being a total bore, here it is: a 2026 Alliance Avenue 27' short camper.

Lately Trump has received the lowest rating by the public than ANY president in the history of the USA. He has angered people in his own party and some of his staff and cabinet. He has sent the National Guard into cities that did not request them of any help to control crime. With NO evidence they were ever needed. That cause protests which got innocent people in trouble and several hospitalized for being mostly peaceful or committing ANY crimes. He has pardoned obviously offenders of the law, and sometimes twice from January 6th assault on the Nation's Capital building. In Portland he though 3 murders in two moths was high, so he sent in ICE to protect the citizens. Eventho the Mayor and Police Chief said we DON'T need help. How many times has Trump ben convicted of and has never (and I repeat) NEVER been incarcerated or served any time behind bars. If it were you or me, we'd be thrown in jail or prison. Where are the good judges and any law enforcement of the judgments? How about the government shutdown of 41 days and the crowds of people who could not get food and some become homeless because weren't getting paid? But he or any of the legislators were paid and did not need food stamps. I bet none of them went to a food bank to feed their kids, or they did not use Medicare to get medical help because they could pay for their own.

I could go on for days saying Trump is so UN-presidential like any president I have seen in my 79 years and has committed and convicted of so many crimes, but yet has somehow gotten out of any jail time.  I love this country and know the damage and anger his creatured, I really don't know how we can rebuild after his term is over. I can only wish and pray the citizens can finally see through him and what he has done, and will do, to our democracy. Maybe the judges will find their backbone and send this guy to what he deserves in jail. With no violence involved.

Take care, stay safe and vote with your heart.

Things we ALL should think about.

Over the last 10 months, we have been held hostage to so much lying coming from the White house. Now I will admit it also comes from the left side of the aisle too. The stuff from Trump are out-n-out boldface lies and actions, you can not even think anyone would believe them or accept them. Let me account for you just SOME of the lies and actions I can remember. There have been SO many.

Let's start on January 6th 2021. Remember when people stormed the Capital building and many of them were legally judged guilty and sent to prison? Their sentences were released and commuted. The second in command with Epstein went to prison but she will probably get released. Former New Year representative George Santos was also just released.

Anyone who supports Trump (a loyal Trump-er Republican) and bends over to 'kiss his ring' is his friend. But not someone who has tired to disgrace or disagree publicly with him or his ideology faces intimidation, lawsuits, and if you have any government supported funding, you will be cut off as a racial left-winger and anti American.

Many people like myself who study history will see the resemblance between Trump and Hitler, Mussolini and other dictators in the past . They first get rid of disbelievers to his philosophies or individuals and establishments that will not bow to his demands like universities and authors. Then cut he cords of the media like National Public Radio and TV like CBS, take away passes of reporters from the Pentagon unless the SWEAR to report and write stories to the way the Pentagon wants. He thinks he can tell the states to sent the national guard to stop peaceful protests who are NOT committing ANY crimes. He thinks just because some of the medic and protests are slowed down, the general public will only believe his lies and actions.

Right now he is hold you all prisoners during this government shutdown due to his effort to get rid of 'Obama Care' and other Democratic programs passed years ago, and will soon run out unless refunded. Meanwhile citizens suffer and maybe die because of healthcare limited for many people. Social Security is being threaten, government workers are laid-off, national parks are closing and the ranger who work there had to set-up a food bank to feed their families. Why did any of the indictments and convictions on Trump simply disappear from any news reporting or get moved along through the courts? Why are the senators and representatives still getting paid? Don't they work for the government? OH, they are suppose to be working for the citizens, right? And if you live in Arizona, legally elected representative Adelita Grijalva still has not been sworn in by House leader Johnson, but the recently elected Republican candidates have. Is it because it would swing to overall voting toward the Democrats? I think so.

Let's face it, the truth is, Trump dislikes anything that is democratic or that is good for the general public (us, the people). As long as he is office, it will take decades to rebuild our country back tot he powerful and wonderful country we once were.  I wish him NO HARM, or any of his cabinet members. he believes since he is the president, he can do what ever he wishes. HE IS WRONG!! Tell your representatives to put a stop to him. Your voice is louder than you think.

This has been the year from hell for me

Let me first say, I am not looking for sympathy when I thought about writing this blog, but just to acknowledge that I know what pain and hurt is, and I to send anyone who has gone through pain like I experienced this year that I am send YOU the sympathy to you. We ALL have periods in our life when we go through physical or mental pain. usually with me it was either one or the other, but seldom was is both at the same time. I have always considered myself a pretty strong person that pretty much could handle just about anything that was thrown at me. Of course it was hard but I managed to handled it.  I also realize I know people who have experienced A LOT more than I have, and I am in awe of them. I am a religious man and I don't believe God is a vengeful God, but sometimes I think he/she will remind you to be kinder and be more loving to others. Maybe I have slipped there. I apologize to anyone I may have offended.  I am truly sorry. 

In this year I was diagnosed with colon cancer in January, had surgery to remove the cancer in February, had a port surgically implanted in my chest for chemo infusions performed twice a week, gone through chemo therapy to get rid of any leftover cancer for 6 months, took time off to go on a trip to Africa (which wore me out, but I was NOT going to miss that), had the port removed in August, and then in September (the final straw) fell on our concrete floor and crack or broke 3 or 4 vertebra in my lower back. That final diagnoses will come after tomorrow when I have a MRI. Seems like Harrold is not a very good shepherd of his body. 

The back thing came the morning after I criticized Trump for using a presidential plane to transport Charlie Kirk back to Phoenix for burial and was hammered for that. But that is FREEDOM OF SPEECH, like what we all have that right. I WAS NOT critical of guns of his (Kirk)  religion, but the abuse of using taxpayer tax dollars for transporting a friend of the president. That is all.

Anyway, This is the explain why I have missed some blog times, not for sympathy. I would like the reach out to the people who found out about the fall and wished me well. thank you. So if I miss a few more just to let you know the back does take some wind out of my sails after sitting in front of the computer for a while, but modern day meds does help. Have a good day and take care with both feet on the floor and not on your back.

Charlie Kirk assassination

First I want to say, I am against ANYONE being assassinated, not matter who they are or which party they support. Or random shootings killing anyone. I don't care if it is a friend of the president or innocent children  at school. But, (maybe I am wrong) do you remember the president telling people to lower their flags to half mass for multiple kids who were killed while they hid under their desks at school? Or were any of them transported by one the government official airplanes to be buried? I don't think so. Is it just me thinking the president and the republican party think their FRIENDS should be treated with the same honors as a elected dignitary, or a war or national hero? Those are OUR tax dollars that pay for those airplanes and I don't believe a person, and a religious leader should, First be involved with politics,(according to the Constitution, religion and politics should NOT mingle) and secondly get special privileges, just because he spreads lies and are friends with the republican party and the president. As he says, "I am the president, and I can do anything I wish." REALLY?? I believe he thinks he is just like a king. Eventho his overall popularity is down to nearly 30%, as of today . The lowest of ANY president, in history.  

When some one thinks the states or cities can not control crime to the point he has to send in the National Guard to control a few random bad guys. Even when no governor or mayor ask for his help. Either he watches too much 6 PM FOX News, or his advisors are as stupid as he is.

When my youngest G-son was small and found out where I was during the Viet Nam conflict, he asked me, "Papa, did you ever kill anyone in the war?" " No son, I never did, and would not want to, except to save my squad members' lives or mine. And even then, it would haunt me forever." I was issued a .45 pistol when I went there and just stack it in my lock until I left that base. I did carry a fixed blade knife.

You may not think I am a religious man, but I am. "Thou shall not kill." is one of the Ten Commandments, and I try to follow that.

I hope Kirk's killer is prosecuted by a middle of the road judge, not a Trump appointee so there are not bias judgments, or ridiculous pardons for the invaders of the National Capital on January 6th. I believe he'll get the death sentence, if trump has anything to do with it, and that may go on for months.

Do me a favor and leave your view point or comments, and follow me in this blog. I get nothing except satisfaction of knowing I am not talking to the wall. Let's all try to bring these United States back to good place to live. Take care, keep your head down and be safe. This world is gone crazy out there.

A trip I wanted to take

 On August 3rd, Nancy and I embarked on a 14 day trip I wanted to do for 12 years, ever since we visited it then. I wanted to go back to Africa, but a different region. I wanted to see the Serengeti and see the animals we did not see the last time. Not behind bars and fences, but in their natural environment, where they roamed free and wild. Tanzania. 

Nancy and I were always animal lovers. Yes, dogs and cats and birds but these are wild, untamed. The Serengeti is a mostly highland area with nearly flat and some places forest areas, but yet big grassy plains and distant mountains with flattop trees. 

After 28 hours in transit, 4 airplanes and 3 layovers,  and swollen ankles plus losing our luggage, we arrived at a gorgeous first lodge.

Our luggage came the next day and the trip was started. The great thing about Overseas Adventure Travels (O.A.T.) is they do everything for you. It cost a little more but it is worth it, and there are no more than 16 people on the tour. Plus you get immersed into the culture of the country you are visiting. First we visited a factory that makes a water filtration system for the locals. Then a basket weaving school trying to keep a traditional art going. Of course there were morning and evening drives out to look for animals. Everyday.

That did not take long to spot some. The Serengeti is a national park that no one can live or build in, but the animals know no boundaries or borders so they roam around, into villages and small towns. It is nothing to see animals walking through a village, but they try to stay away from humans, plus they eat their crops. Sometimes kill people too.

After a few nights in a couple nights in some luxurious lodges, we moved on the a VERY remote mobile camp in the midst of the heart of the Serengeti, where we were awoken by the rumbles of a lion's roar, and Leopard and the Hyenas' laugh. You would think they were right outside our canvas tent, but no, they were far away.

Walking around after dark was prohibited, because you never knew what was hiding in the tall grass or outside your zippered doorway. After dinner in a large tent you were escorted to your tent and did not come out until they escorted you back to the dining tent for breakfast. The animals never tried to get into your tents, but you had to keep it zipped all the time. We had an indoor shower, flushing toilet and sink for washing up. We had to laugh at some of the people who never camped in their life.

Four nights later we left for a unbelievable coffee\farm plantation and back to wi-fi  and being pampered in a beautiful lodge.

 I've just given you the highlights of our amazing trip, but there are too many photos and stories to share, but I will share a few more. August is the winter time and migration time for many of the animals. We saw herds of wildebeest, wart hogs, zebras, antelopes, giraffes, 3 baby lions in a tree, baby elephants, a baby cheetah, group of baboons, and some of the most friendly and welcoming locals ever. The people are very poor but would welcome you into their houses and share a meal with you, not matter how poor they are.

And if you are interested in taking a trip like this, contact Overseas Adventure Travels and experience an amazing trip. But don't be afraid of being dirty for a few days. We will always remember the two trips we took to Africa.  and stay safe. We are blessed. Take care and stay safe.

What is YOUR views?

I have noticed lately, just because someone views something differently than you do, they'll actually fight over it. I don't understand how people can be so sat in their views, they would literally fight with someone that disagrees with them. For instants, witnesses to an auto accident, whether it be the drivers or by-standers. Literally fist fights have broken out. Each person sees the accident differently and are passionate that they were right. Let the police figure it out who is right and who is wrong. 

Now days it is politics. Sure not everyone will agree with politicians, no matter which party they are from, or the politician's laws or statements. So many topics are so controversial and many people have strong feelings and views about them.  It goes from politics, to religion, to the odd acting neighbors, to the flavor of ice cream. We ALL have different likes and dislikes, but none are worth arguing over, or fighting with someone who disagrees.

Another topic is  our Secretary of Health who is advocating no vaccinations and certain foods like non-pasteurized or foods that have preservatives added. Is he going to change the entire population that has eaten those foods since birth? No. I will admit,  Americans are heavier than we need to be, and we may not eat as many healthy foods as we should, but does any other country's population? I doubt it, so eat what you love and see your family doctor regularly. 

When I hear someone talk about a ridiculous thing like not getting their children vaccinated or something else stupid, I just roll my eyes, take a deep breath, and smile. Why should I get into a heated discussion which I will never change that person's mind or thinking. I may mumble under my breath, but never voice my criticism of their opinion. I trust science, years of history, and proofed facts, not insane fake information spread by people who have no idea what is right and would much rather believe lies.

But I will admit, there are somethings I WILL fight for. No necessarily physically fight for, but a calm adult type discussion. I will fight/discuss for our country and our democracy. And eventho the bible has been translated decades after the fact and by many people over the centuries, I will still defend it. And of course, I will fight for my family and my friends. I stand up for the right reasons and the right things. I am not perfect, but I DO know right from wrong.

I believe everyone should be more acceptance in other people's views and believes. Not judgmental or critical just because they don't believe the way you do. You don't have to go along with their believes, but just accept and agree to disagree, and walk away knowing you voiced your factual based opinion, without swing a fist or any harsh words. Take pride in that.

Nancy and I will be gone for a few weeks taking another international trip the the Serengeti region of Tanzania Africa. So until I get back, take care, and stay safe.

Camping (again) at 8,000 feet

 We all need to get away from time to time. And  we are the same. After buying a used travel trailer a few months ago, and not using it, it was time to pull it out and tryout that rig. What we found out was, yes it was nice to get away to somewhere fairly remote from people, and just join with mother nature and relax. 

Our Daughter and son-n-law have some property in Nutrioso (new-tree-o-so), a small development in northeastern Arizona close (12 miles) to the NM and AZ border. On top of a plateau covered with tall pines, a beautiful view on a good size lots. The only drawbacks is it takes 5 hours to get there and the weather got hotter. The breezy wind helped.

Some good friends joined us and in their 4X4, we went exploring the local dirt roads and back country. Not much blacktop under those tires. Time spent catching up about family and other friends, tales about each others' travels, sharing meals and drinks, and just day dreaming and relaxing. Nothing better than that.

But after a week without the internet, cell phones and TV, it was sort-of good to get back to reality of civilization life, unfortunately. And then I realized, " We don't do this enough." But after the last few months of surgery, chemo treatments, and doctor visits, you can understand why it was good to just get away. The clean air, the clambering of the wildlife around us, no traffic noise, and fresh mountain breezes, refreshes the soul and your mind. 

But then this next week, two doctor visits, with tests I am sure, and hopefully good news about getting rid of the 'IV port' planted in my chest, for good. That would mean I am in remission. At least for now.

Anyway, I am making this short so I can go visit with one of our self-adopted grandkids (she adopted us, but we would have adopted her too) in the hospital. Painful story.

So until the next edition, get out of town, go camping or take a nice long drive into the wilderness/countryside and breath deep with your eyes closed and clear your minds, and just relax under a big shady tree. Enjoy!

It is NOT over yet.

It all started last November, or maybe before that, I am not really sure. A simple procedure to make sure things were good and OK, that turned my thought process around forever. Both of my parents died from different forms of cancer, but I never thought I would have cancer too. Eventho my cancer was not as bad as many people thought, it was still cancer. And cancer is a thing, I believe, never really goes away. In my case,  it may be because of my own neglect that the doctor found cancer. Maybe if I had not been stubborn and had my normally scheduled colonoscopy, I may not have to go through a colon/bladder surgery and the following chemo treatments. But history can not be reversed or turned around. Maybe it was meant to be as a message to pay attention to your body and treat it well by get things checked when the doctors tell you. Who knows.

Now, after a few months going through the chemo infusions and the sleepless night in my recliner, I still feel I escaped the worse cancer had instore for me if I had not acted quickly, and did not get some great medical caregivers.

Thursday evening at a 'Boy's Night' gathering of retired firefighters, I sat next to a firefighter who went through pure hell with his cancer ordeal. His was related to the job and had to fight to get it recognized as a Workman's Comp case. Then, several surgeries, radiation and chemo treatments, more surgeries and excruciating pain, along with many months in the hospital. As the night ended and our discussions ended, I felt I had been blessed to not even come close to what he endured. As I have said many times, "There is always someone who has it worse than you". And he definitely did.

My side-effect inconveniences I experienced were exactly that, inconveniences. But as the title reads, 'It is NOT over yet'. I still have blood tests and Cat-Scans to go through to make sure nothing was missed and the cancer cells did not move somewhere else to do their dirty work. And if they did, well, we'll deal with that like I did before. There is not 'quitting' when dealing with cancer. You just find another way to defeat it, or slow it down, or remove it.

Until the tests are completed, I do what I always did, enjoy my family, travel and restore vintage cars. And even if the tests are not what I wanted to hear, I will continue to do what I like in life as long as possible.

Next week, Nancy and I along with our youngest grandson are going camping for a week in a cooler place in Arizona. We will be gone over the 4th of July for the tall pines of northeastern Arizona at nearly 8,000 feet, so I will not be posting a blog next Sunday, but relaxing and hanging out with friends and family.

So until the next blog, take care, stay safe and don't be crazy with fireworks. HAPPY 4th everyone! 

 

Losing someone you love and look-up to is tough.

 I suppose my childhood was not the TV version of the best, but it wasn't the worse either. We did not have a lot of money, or live in a house, mostly small unattractive apartments in some questionable neighborhoods but I did not care. I was with my loving parents. At least one was, my mother. My father had just gotten discharged from the Navy after WWll and was still young and wild, like most were then. He came to Cincinnati to stay with his older brother and look for a job. My mother was born in Alabama and moved to Cincinnati for work in a factory during the war. After they met, I was born the following year in 1946. I never asked them how they met, and when I was old enough to think about that, they were gone. They both came from the 'Great Generation' who never really discussed things like that.

At age 7, I was shipped off to my mother's parents farm in Alabama. For the next year I lived in an old farm house with no electric or indoor plumbing. I went to school there, and actually got the best grades ever, and I worked in the fields along side of my two uncles (mom's younger brothers) and grandparents. I picked cotton by hand, carried iced water to my grandfather as he plowed the fields behind a horse, took baths in a big wash tub, and fought with my uncles throwing mud hardened corn cobs at each other. Boy did they hurt. When they finally got electricity and water in doors, along with a telephone, I'd talk to my mother back in Cincinnati. My dad never called, or at least I don't remember him calling. He did came by and picked me up to go stay in a moldy old cabin next to a big dam. It was the worse time for a week. I got a bad sunburn cause he said I was too pale and needed to get a tan. No 'Coppertone' tan lotion back then.

When my mom finally came and got me, we lived in these small apartments for years. As a 5th grader, we moved 5 times and I was in 5 different schools in some rough neighborhoods where I learned to street fight to save my pale body and chubby appearance. My mother worked in a department store running elevators, eventually becoming the elevator girl for the owner of the store. She always worked and always was loving and we always had what we needed to survive, food, presentable clothing and a roof over our heads. But she needed a loving partner. To me, it seemed like she could not find the right guy. It wasn't until I was 12 years old she found a guy she would marry. Carl was his name and he become my step-father until he died. My father and I did finally reunited years later but it was a stand-offish manner. He never was the lovey-dovey type.  I wanted that relationship, but he just accepted it and went along.

Fast forward to many years later, my dad got skin cancer which was the cause of his death. We did talk in his last days and he told me he was sorry and loved me. First I remember him saying that. My mother passed in the same hospital building we both were born in. Her in 1924 and me in 1946. But I did not mean to bore you with my life story.

To my title point, when my dad passed, I was not at lose as I was when my mother died. Maybe because I felt my dad did not love me like my mother had. When I asked my dad to help with anything, it was with a long deep exhale and an reluctant "OK". My mother was always happy to help me. But she was never ready wanted to discuss my thoughts and dreams for my future. Maybe that was the way of that generation. Never really discuss or talk about personal thoughts and feelings with your kids. I missed not talking to them about my feelings on life in general. But now they are gone.  I have changed that in our family. We talk about ANYTHING the grand kids want to talk about. And we clear our schedule anytime they want help. 

It is hard to lose your parents because sometimes you feel like an orphan, but you're not. Your parents can not be replaced and part of them lives in you, like old photos, memories they cause you to remember, some things you do emulate them. But this is not just about parents, but anyone that means a lot to you. Siblings, friends, aunts and uncles, co-workers, anyone you cared for. You can never fill that void or their shoes. You have to remember the good times and times you spent with them. Cherish friends and relatives NOW before it is too late, even if you don't see eye-to-eye. And if you are lucky enough to still have your parents, ask them those hard questions now before...

Today is Father's Day and I miss both of my parents. They may not have been perfect parents but I am sure somewhere deep down they loved you as much as they could, and in their own way. Respect that and take comfort as you look through those old family photos and films. 

Take care and stay safe.

Good news

This last Wednesday, I received some good news from my Oncologist at the Infusion/Cancer Center. Week before last was, to me, was the week from HELL. I had no, NO energy, my mouth felt like a mouth full of needles, I lost most of the feeling in my fingers and toes, some of my hair started to fall out (which I expected that since I am going bald anyway), and I was becoming irritable and short tempered, which I never wanted to do. The Doctor said, "That is what I wanted to hear." I replied, "You did, and why." "That means you hit your max so now we can stop the Chemo."  I was surprised and glad. I said, "Why didn't you tell me that" "Because I knew you were a tough guy (me 'tough'?) and wanted to go until you could not stand any more, so when you said 'the week from Hell, I knew we hit your stop time."  

Now that does not mean I am in remission. That will still be testing for remains of the cancer. If there are none then I am good, but if there are, we continue with some more chemo.  And then there is a CT Scan in July too. I asked him about the infusion port removal. I guess we'll get that taken out after Nancy and I get back from Africa in late August. It does not bother me anyway.

Typically when you stop the treatments, it is semi-customary to go up to the nurse's station and ring a brass bell to tell the other patients and world you are done. But I did not do that. I just wanted to hugs the great nurses that was SO caring to me and the other patients that come in there. I could not do their job and watch some of the patient dwindle away. Especially the kids. I may have shed a tear or two as I exited the center. Let me admit it, Cancer really sucks and no damn fun, and I feel I had the light version. The nurses and the great staff made my time bearable sitting there for 3 hours while being infused with chemicals that basically kill your immune system and in return give you pain and and plenty of 'inconveniences'. God bless the more serious patients and their journey. And God bless the nurses that hold your hand and treat you like family while you endure it all. They are angels. Truly.

Now I can almost get back to a semi-normal life, as long as I get rid of the brain-fog and needles in my hands and mouth. I maybe able to feel a nut or bolt and get my taste back and feel the pleasure of cold ice cream and iced tea soon. We'll see.

Until then, you can have some as my alter ego and tell me how it was. So take it easy, stay safe and comment and follow me. 

Memorial Day - What are you planning?

 Recently, my daughter and I visited one of Phoenix's oldest cemetery, Greenwood. Five years ago, one of our self-adopted children passed and being from a very Chinese family, they adhere to traditional customs. When we first visited Greenwood a year after his passing, we were appalled there was no headstone or ever a marker for his grave. two years later I visited it again and still not markings. On this visit, we saw his family finally had a very nice headstone placed on his grave. My daughter and I broke down. She was a good friend of his since high school and Nancy and I love this goofy Chinese kid that no home life but enjoyed joining our family on any occasion we had.

Memorial Day is not only for remembering veterans, but anyone that means anything to you and that no longer with us. I am especially proud that our citizens rally around veterans, active and non-active, to pay tribute to their service and sacrifices they made to keep our country safe and free.

During the Viet Nam conflict when I entered the military, veterans were not appreciated. We were spit on and cussed at for servicing. That is why, unless I had to, I did not travel in uniform, and ever today don't wear any veteran attire like t-shirts or caps. My first airplane ride was to boot camp in Amarillo Texas.

Again during the Viet Nam era, killed soldiers' families were notified with just a telegram delivered by mail or a taxi, until a wife of an Army Colonel was so upset and rallied the families together to make it more personal and caring. Afterwards, families were notified by military personal, in uniform to not only notify the family, but to help comfort them from the shock of losing their relative. Organizations like the VFW , and the American Legion also try to comfort the families  during those times. It hasn't been until 9-11 that our country has paid so much attention to veterans, first responders for their service. We thank you for that. It has been a long time coming, because I am both, a vet and retired first responder. I sometime get embarrassed when someone says, "Thank you for your service.". I served because that is what you should do, not because of the attention. I am proud I was able and I believe most Vets and first responders would say the same. Anyway, every, EVERY male on my father's side served in the military from 1776 up to myself, and we are proud to have done that.

So Memorial Day and the weekend is not just about grilling some hot dogs and hamburgers, and going to a lake and boating, but to pay tribute to the one gone with a visit, maybe flowers or just to say their names in honor and gratitude.

Next time you see a uniformed service member or a police offer or a firefighter, or a nurse/doctor in scrubs, maybe pay for their lunch or coffee and just say, "Thank you." They will get it and appreciate you understanding what they are doing and continue doing for ALL of us. But also remember your relatives too. They ALL should never be forgotten by us. Take care and stay safe.

Do you have To-Do-List or a Bucket list?

 The answer is, Yes I do! I believe everyone does and probably half of them never get finished. I have some things for years and maybe decades. Eventho we built this house 27 years ago and Nancy and I designed it, we were here every step of the way during construction. I even helped the constructor as one of the carpenter laborers swing hammers and laid tile, plumbing, so we could save money. And I learned alot. But now after building it 27 years ago, we see some things differently and want to change things, which we can't do or don't want to do. So we are going to call in the professionals and let them do the heavy lifting. 

After Nancy came home from Cornwall England yesterday from her 60 mile in 5 days of hiking, she said she had plenty of time to think about things, and one thing she wanted to re-do our master bathroom. I said, "OK, and how much will that cost?" So I had to do some research and it isn't going to be cheap but affordable, because I AM NOT GOING TO MOVE ANYMORE! Anyway, more on that later when we have a idea of what we're going to do.

Back to Nancy's hiking trip. Her, and a dear friend, are planning to do overseas hiking trips in several countries. So far they have done Spain, Scotland and now Cornwall England, on the farthest southern coast of England. Next is another section of the Appalachian Trail in New York state. That will be number 6 out of 12 states. She typically does 1,000 miles hiking a year, which includes the shorter hikes (4 to 10 miles) around our house and the state. Crazy hiker. Meanwhile I just work in my shop on cars. Crazy car builder. 

So we have a "To-do list" for the house and camping and now (which we have had for a while) a "Bucket list" for countries we have not been to. Not to brag, but we have hit all but one continent accept Australia and or New Zealand. Those are on the list now. Covid stopped our New Zealand trip but I think that will be within the next year. Tanzania Africa is coming in August, with quick layovers in Kenya and Qatar. Another LONG flight. "Sigh" But we love Africa.

Not that I think of myself as a famous person in any means, but do want to finish a book I started many years ago about a (not another fire department book) green eyed boy being raised my a divorced single mother in Cincinnati in the 50s and 60s. Guess who? And some of the plans he had about life and moved around so much and finally found his focus in life. AND, fell on his face MANY, MANY times before he did. 

I am going to make this short today. Hope you comment about your 'To-Dos' or trips. I'd love to hear about them and how you all are doing in this mixed up world. But here are some of the photos Nancy sent me from the UK on her hike last week. Take care and stay safe.

Yep, BIG boulders to climb over. And wild horses too.

Beautiful sea shores and more boulders.

And two lovely, hearty ladies living their dreams. Proud of them both, but mostly Nancy.

Day 3.

I have SO many questions.

First I want to say, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there. And to thank them for their love, strength, and sensibility while raising children, and putting up with us husbands  and dads.

OK, now to my questions. I know you have had questions that some may laugh at, but go ahead and ask them. A teacher I had many, MANY years ago once said, " Some people think if someone ask a question, you are questioning that person knowledge or intelligence." It is not that at all. Of course it maybe the case for President Trump. But he does not like to be questioned, AT ALL!

I have always been curious about a lot of things and topics. They may seem ridiculous to some, but I want to know 'why'. And I still have quite a few more. 

• Why are the people who teach our children (K-12) paid less than college instructors?
• Why can't we treat each other with respect, no matter what the situation?
• Why are we SO bombarded with ads? From looking up something on Google to sides of buses, to more than half of our mail, to so many TV and movie commercials to everywhere.
• Why do people have to have 24 news? 7 to 9 AM, noon until 1 PM, 4 until 7 PM and again at 10 or 11 PM. And mostly it is the same as the previous reports. And mostly what the media focuses on is crime and horror. And it seems movies and TV series do the same. I figure, if it is something I need to know, I'll get the message sooner or later. People must love killers, blood and drama. I do too, but not all the time.
• Why do girls (young and old) scream at movies, concerts, celebrations. Yelling I understand, but screaming, especially in my ear? I mean just blasting from the feet to their vocal chords. As I clap at those times, they are screaming and looking at me, like to say, "Why aren't you screaming too?" I am a guy and only scream when I close my fingers in the car door. And it is usually bad words anyway. Like 'darn' or 'heck'. OK, maybe not.
• And here is the 'BIGGY' Why does Trump think the President has ALL the power in the world and can sidestep the law, courts to do whatever he dislikes or disagrees with? The law IS THE LAW FOR EVERYONE.  Is it, 1.) that he just does not care or 2.)  he just stupid and being feed bad info, or 3.) does not care about the small people like us? I think it is all three, especially No. 3. "Kids don't need 30 dolls, they would be fine with 3."  Quote unquote. Out of his mouth.  That is not his choice as President. Just because he had 30 dolls as a child, does not mean other kids can't.

These are just some of my unanswered questions. Silly as they may seem, I wonder about them. Maybe not really. 

For those of you wanting to know how I feel. I am doing well, or as expected. Some side effects, most inconveniences, but good. I like this statement, "My diagnosis does not define me." One more treatment on this coming Wednesday and then test to see how the chemo performed. I have faith this position of my life journey will be concluded. 

If you are like most, you have seen we have a new Pope "Bob'. Oops, I probably should call him Pope Leo, the first American Pope since the, well, forever. And I believe one that will tell Trump he is wrong is all of his stupid moves. I am not catholic, but I respect those who are.

So until the next time, Take care, stay safe and follow this blog, oh and leave your comments.

5 down and hopefully, 1 more to go.

 Actually, the 5 infusions I have had went fairly fast and discounting the few inconveniences, it wasn't all that bad. I have seen some other patients come in looking like they just about to pass now. Older people, middle aged, but the heartbreakers are the very young and teens. They have SO much to live for. But fortunately the medical community has advanced so quickly today, more and more are not only surviving cancer, but live to a elderly age.

Yeah, I have had some inconveniences like wearing a pump on my belt two days after the infusion with a another chemo drug contently going to my veins.  A little hair loss, pins and needles in my fingers every time I reach into the refrigerator to get the milk, slight loss of feeling in my fingers, some lack of energy, and sleeping in my recliner for two nights while I wear the pump. But you know, it's all OK because I believe all will be fine in a couple months, all these things will eventually go away. I do hope the hair grows back . LOL! What the hell, it is only hair, right?

Wearing a pump has caused me to do things much more mythical than I use to do things. Well one is I wear out faster working on cars, and I have to think how and where I am moving around things so I don't catch the tubing going into my upper chest does not get pulled out or tangled or crimped. Getting dressed in the morning is always fun figuring where and how to route the tubing for that days activity, which usually means crawling under, in, or around a car which has things that would love to grab the tubing. It's interesting for sure. SO many other cancer patients have it far worse than I do. I still feel I am lucky. The simple things you take for granite become more complicated and frustrating. So far I have not simply flipped out over it all, and keep my wits about me, and NEVER took it out on Nancy and anyone else. 

Oh, Nancy, my dream wife. I really hit the jackpot with her. No pity, none of this, "OH Honey how are you feeling today?" Always encouragement, positive thoughts and no complaining about my grumbling, just a smile and a nod of the head like, "You'll get it." She has been SO great, and has for 48 years now. I ask myself, how did she put up with me this long?

I know I have told you this story about a young lieutenant in the Civil War what he wrote to his young wife after he had his leg amputated from a wound. He thought he was so bad off with one leg and believed he would be nothing more a crunch dependent cripple, until a man was laid on the cot next to him who no legs at all, who eventually would die laying there. There is ALWAYS someone worse off than you. Our fire department, and many, many more departments have lost so many members from cancer. I feel SO lucky to be just one of the lucky.

If you know someone who is suffering with any type of serious medical issue, support them through encouragement, visits with jokes and helping them to do fun things in getting their mind off the negatives and onto the positives. Our department has done so much for us retirees with their support to all of us. We should all the do same, as much as you can. We are all in the same race, the HUMAN RACE. 

Thank you again for reading my simple babblings. I really appreciate and love your comments and send you all love and hope for this country. Follow my simple writings, take care and stay safe.

The photo below is something I saw on the corner and it made me smile.

Have we totally lost our sense of direction?

 I know, what you are about to read is old news. You have heard it in the TV news, newspapers, even social media for weeks. But, I don't believe the majority has actually realized the score of what has happened in the first 100 days of the Trump administration.

Since before Donald Trump took office, he said he was going to 'strip the federal government and reduce the budget and make it more efficient running and good for all.' Well, as they say, "What do think of me now?"  Trump now has the LOWEST approval rating than any president in the history of the United States. 55,000 confirmed cuts, more that 76,000 employee buyouts, and 145,000 other planned reductions still coming. This 34 felon convicted president has cut off people from agencies, closed federal departments, cut off funding for vaccines to child and elderly, cut funds to people starving in other countries and basically closed the door to the entire world like we the citizens of the USA are all alone with no friends. 

He and his clones, like Elon Musk, who are billionaires, think they can slim down what we have busted our butts to build one of the strongest countries in the world, now are a shadow of what we were and possibly weaker that the other two great powers. And believe or not, those billionaires are making money while we, the people, suffer with with the coming higher prices and empty shelves and no trade from other countries that we depend on.. Big box stores like Target and Walmart bring in a lot of foods grown in other countries and goods that will skyrocket with the 100 to 200% tariffs that Trump imposed and says it will make us grow financially. Ask ANY economist how tariffs work and they will tell you they kill the imposing country and hurt the economy and sometime throw the country, and the rest of the world into a recession.  Global trade is an international machine, not for just the USA, we are not alone in this world. We all benefit from global trade.  No one likes to see almost everything coming from China, but the manufactures did that to them self after the American employees refused to do some jobs and ask for higher wages. 

Thousands of USA citizens will suffer from the cuts and defunding the following cuts the Trump administration has made: 

- cuts in the Department of Medicare and Medicaid
- Dept. education
- World Health Agency

- USAid

- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

- parts of the Defense Dept.

- parts the Federal Aviation Admin.

- parts of the I.R.S.

- National institution of Health

- National Ocean and Atmosphere Admin.

- parts of the Treasury Dept.

- International Development

- support to states for free school lunches

- support for agencies that help the homeless

- support for meals for seniors

- Government Oversite Agencies

- and almost anything that are cutting down on our impact on the environment. Instead he says "DRILL BABY DRILL" and dig more coal.

This is truly NOT a president for the people, but who has taken the advice of his billionaire buddies that see a profit off our backs as the people who supply the nation.

Many people see Trump as a savior, but in reality he is a false God (which he would probably like to be called that) and a president who tearing down our democracy, dismantling our government and splitting our country so that rich will rule and we are forced to have the leftovers. 

The ONLY way Trump and his administration will continue is to say nothing, OR tell the courts and your representatives in Washington to block him, and Musk and any of his administration to stop their destruction and listen to the educated people who built this country, and understand the world economy and how it works. Legally allow those immigrates in who are willing to work in the fields, build our homes and do the jobs believe are below them for minimum wages. Maybe then factories will return to the USA and we can again produce our goods instead of China and their off shoots in Asian countries. IT'S A GLOBAL ECONOMY WORLD Mr. President, not USA stands alone. 

Contact your representatives and let your voice be heard. WE ARE THE PEOPLE, not the billionaires. Trump loves to in command, praise and will never admit he is wrong, so don't cross him. He hates people who disagree and will hurt you if he can. 

I am sorry for my rant. Maybe if we all do this, it will be heard in Washington. Take care and be safe. BTW, I am doing with chemo. Thanks for your thoughts and comments.

How old is OLD?

Occasionally I think of myself as being 'OLD'. But, I don't believe I do that very much. Yeah, I am 78 and yeah I have things that make me feel old, but am I suppose to slow down and act old? Hell no!! I had a bad shoulder, got that fixed. I had a little foot problems, got that fixed. I had a back problem, got that fixed too.  I had a heart thing, well, that is a on going fix. And then there is that Cancer thing, OK,  that I am dealing with that too.  Getting old does mean you start having more aches and pains than you did at 20 or 25 years old. But it does not you have to roll over and wait for death to come knocking. It does come with consequences as time marches on. I never thought I'd join AARP or get Social Security when I was 25. Or a lifetime membership to Silver Slippers gym card, but like other seniors, I did.

Now I see my children getting into their 50s, WHAT HAPPENED THERE? Now my daughter is dying her hair so she does not look old. But my grandkids want to grow faster and get to that age where their parents don't have the command over them. I remember that too. And when I was on my own, I called home and ask how to start a checking account and should I get a credit card  or "Can I come home a stay a few days" because I was home sick. I did not do that, but I did ask for advice from not only my parents but other OLD PEOPLE.

Get out on you own is a nature thing that even animals do and want.. Our nearest genetic evolutionary  relative, the Chimpanzee, does that too. Until the parent gets tried of them and literally boots them out of the home tree or nest. But coming back for a visit is also what they do. Did your kids come home and stayed for a while after they left? And when they see their old room was turned into a workout room or home office they got mad. "Does this mean this is not my room anymore Mom?" As Mom and Dad looks at each other and shrug their shoulders, with a smile. I remember when our late son moving out,  then in a months moved back in and we told him, :"You remember our rules, right?" He looked at us and replied, "But I am over 18 now." Yes, but it IS our house and those are the rules."  A month or so, he moved out again after finding his own house, which we gracefully helped him find.

Getting old is NOT what some commercials crack it up to be. "AGE IS JUST A NUMBER" Retirement is good, but, not like being young and physically fit with no pain as you roll out of bed in the morning. Going out most nights with friends partying until 1 or 2 AM, as now you are in bed by 9:30 PM, and falling  asleep at 7.I always crack-up when I hear the phrase, "The Golden Years"  Right? The retirement years are good, but I would much rather crawl under cars at age 20 years old than at 78 years old, eventho I still do it. The good thing about retirement is I don't have to answer to a boss, well, maybe the wife, and the dog is starting to get that way too. But I can come and go, without dragging the kids around, or start work when I want, stop to get a smoothie without asking for an advance on my allowance. Nancy and I do follow the fire house rules of  if she cooks, I wash the dishes. And If I cook, I wash the dishes. Did I get that right? Well anyway, I have a dish washer.

I do love retirement and I except aging and getting old. There are benefits like people getting up to offer their seats, people smile and greet you differently, and there is the AARP discount at a lot of restaurants if you go earlier than 6 PM.  Either way, aging isn't all that bad. I do stop by a firehouse to see how many people don't remember me anymore and tell them how it was when I joined the department. But they just smile respectfully, think I just came in to get my blood pressure taken as a senior citizen.

I read today in 2034, seniors on Social Security will surpass the number of 16 years old. Doesn't matter, I'll be gone by then anyway. JOKE!  JOKE!

Have a painless day, take care and stay safe. Follow me and leave your description of getting old, or not, but leave comments. I WILL answer, if you leave your name.

Another week, another treatment.

When I was still working a real job (on the fire department), all of my time was scheduled around when I worked and when I was off. Now it is around my chemo treatments. I guess that would normal for most people, but it is a little strange how we schedule our activities around our work schedules, or other events. Maybe not but you know, as Nancy always says, " You always notice things other people would never notice." I think she is right. 

Like last Wednesday while I sat there and they plugged me in to the 3rd chemo treatment,  my eyes wandered around looking at the other 10 or so people getting the same things I am getting (I guess their are), I wondered how did we get this thing called cancer? Was it through our occupations, like firefighters, or was passed down through family genes, or just bad health practices? Who knows. I guess they can tell that from research, someone can do the chemistry or 'geneo' thing to find the origin of the cancer cells to find where it came from. I am not that smart. I have not heard or know how I got it, but I do know I consider myself lucky in a sense because I was told it was found in the early stage.  I was never afraid of getting cancer nor am I afraid of dying. But I don't believe either was or is something I should be concerned about at this stage. I DO feel for some of the people in that room with me that are suffering with this ugly horrible disease. 

As I sit there for about 3 hour getting the chemo, that basically kills my immune system, or at least slows its reactivity. I look around at the  other patients. Some look, like sorta me (older) but look really bad, some that are middle aged and look vibrant and health, and then there are the teenagers and adolescences that break my heart. I feel for ALL of them, but the young kids really get to me. I feel I have had a pretty great life and experienced alot, but those kids have alot more living to do before their time comes. But I am not the one who determines that. I believe that is God's job. 

My mind wanders as I sit there watching people come in, get plugged in and how they react to the treatments. Some get warm blankets because it does make you cold, some take a nap for 3 hours, some play on their phone or tables just to kill the time. I have movies on my table that I watch but occasionally glance up to see what everyone is doing, like patients and the great nurses we have. They bring snacks and drinks around, and sometimes if it is not really busy, they'll stop and chat with you about just about anything. of course they want to know about side-affects I am having or if I feel like I need some hydration (IV fluids). I usually tell them "No I am good"

My side affects are minimal as I know. My sensitivity to cold definitely increased. just getting into the refrigerator or getting a milk jug out makes my finger feeling like pins and needles. I wear an extra shirt mostly, and have an extra blanket on my side of the bed at night. These are small inconveniences but can but irritating to some people. I figure if I am going to get through this there has to be some stuff I just have to endure. I NEVER want to make anyone else upset just because I don't feel good. What is the sense in that?

I know since I retired, firefighters have found that they were not as well protected with our equipment as they thought over the years. Our department, like others, have been hit with many MANY cases of cancer due to the carcinogenic agents we were exposed in our normal shifts which have increased in past years. Our department, along with others have joined with cancer researchers  to find out what we did not do to protect our members better and what we can do to prevent future cases. 

Our Union Local 493 has teamed up with some media people to produce a video about the journey of one very brave firefighter who is fighting his unbelievable battle with cancer and the extreme agony he has endured. I hope, if you have not already seen this, would watch this and understand what we as firefighters do to keep you safe. But also understand what people with cancer have to go through. 

Go to Youtube.com, "Dying to save you". Have some tissues.

Thanks for read this blog. And please follow my journey and leave your name so I know who to answer to in the comments. Take care and stay safe.