Morning to all my Saturday morning person readers. I say “person readers” out of respect to our new Supreme Court nominee since I, like the person up for nomination, am not a biologist and thus feel unqualified to define the readership.

This week, with my neighbors away on vacation (Adrianne & grandkids), I took Rugby-the-dog on many a walk. Upon their return he seemed extremely happy to finally see the rest of his ‘pack’. I believe that part of his joy lay in the fact that my walks offered him more distance with fewer sniffing stops.

In addition, it presented me with witnessing the nuttiness of our weather. One day it hit eighty, the next day a short snow flurry. I am amazed that I am not walking about with a case of the sniffles.

Bureaucracy bar none — Question? Who exactly runs our nation? I believe that our governmental infrastructure, and accompanying bureaucracy, has grown beyond functionality. Earlier this week it was proposed by the administration to hire (‘require’?) an additional 87,000 IRS agents; and just so you understand fully we’ve been informed not to expect refunds for months on end.

The ancient Greeks understood all of this and found an answer. In that light, have we created our own ‘Gorgons’, a ‘Medusa’ for each overgrown bureau? An entity where nothing and nobody can stare into a department without turning into stone? Does our term ‘to stonewall’ even apply?

Bumper Cars – Way back in 1895 in my state of Ohio there were only two cars on the road (properly registered). Somehow they managed to find each other and properly crashed into one another. Some skeptics claim that only one car was involved in an accident and it hit a tree, I prefer the first tale.

The joy in $$$ earned – by the health care industry primarily due to the way Covid-19 was presented and managed – worldwide. Words such as ‘lockdown’, travel restrictions, masking, and Zoom have become part of the everyday lexicon (even the word ‘Passport’ has taken on new meaning). Almost made illegal were any and all attempts to treat Covid-19 as symptoms were first noticed using a variety of widely available prescriptions; it was rest at home until too sick and then be admitted to the hospital.

So here is what was paid out to hospitals, State by State, for each Covid-19 case dealt with. Remember that the $$$ amount shown is per patient. Not included is how the bottom line of Maderno and Pfizer were affected.

While we were bombarded with a daily drumbeat of cases and the raw numbers of deaths attributed to the contagion, here from World Health Organization and John Hopkins Covid Resource Center are the actual survival rates.

Traveling in Style –

”The Graf Zeppelin is a ship with a soul. You have only to fly in it to know that it’s a living, vibrant, sensitive and magnificent thing” ~ written by British journalist Lady Grace Drummond-Hay (shown seated in the Graf’s lounge)

Most of us have known of the burning of the huge airship, a Zeppelin named Hindenburg, while landing in Lakehurst, NJ. What most don’t realize was the level of comfort and safety the Zeppelin airships offered beginning in the late 1920s.

The Graf Zeppelin was 100 ft wide and 776 ft long. It had a crew of 36 and carried 24 passengers who were afforded amazing comfort. The Graf Zeppelin had nary a single injury. It made regular crossings of the Atlantic and into Brazil. In the end of its ‘run’ it had made 590 flights totaling over 1 million miles which included a “round the world” trip – Lakehurst, NJ from start to finish, flying time 12 days, 12 hours, and 13 minutes accomplished in 21 days (20,651 mi covered).

On its second flight it also transported ‘Susie’, an eastern gorilla which had been captured in the Belgian Congo. After touring the US, Susie went to Cincinnati Zoo in 1931 where she lived until 1947.

Fini –
• Today is ‘baby-brother’ Art’s birthday. He’s the last of the brothers’ still plowing forward while in his prime – the last of us still in his sixties.

• Later this week two ladies who’ve been a joy in my life celebrate their birthdays, Dia and Jeannie (Neaners) P.

• Have you ever sat at a railroad crossing waiting impatiently for the train to cross? Consider yourself lucky it wasn’t for the Norfolk & Western train of 500 coal cars that travelled 157 miles between Iaeger, West Virginia, U.S.A and Portsmouth, Ohio, in 1967 – it was 4 miles long, pulling 42,000 tons of coal.

• Adrianne and the grandkids vacationed in New York City. Little did they realize that we can send a person to the moon in much less time than it would have taken them to make their trip from the ‘Nati’ by Stagecoach.

their incoming flight seen from my favorite viewing spot

• Possibly, since writing about travel’ and the German ‘Zeppelin’, today marked the day – April 2, 1917 – that Woodrow Wilson had America enter World War I.

• And finishing up this ‘travel’ version of the Ramblings is this factoid; the purported world’s shortest street is 6 centimetres (2.4”) long. It is in Scotland.

• This especially for our family numismatist, Jason, comes this piece of history. Today in 1792 Congress authorized the minting of the $10 Eagle, $5 half-Eagle & 2.50 quarter-Eagle gold coins (as well as the silver dollar, dollar, quarter, dime & half-dime). Any of these in your collection?

Best till next weekend. Travel safely!

Dirk

Morning all; here it’s a chilly morning (hovering at 40 – with a 5-minute snow shower). All this means that my fresh pot of hot java tastes extra good. This morning I want to thank you, my readers, for sticking with these Ramblings. I know it’s a chore to get up on Saturday morning to get a weekly ‘fix’. Oh wait, that’s me, writing this stuff. Well anyway, thanks for reading; I’m still having fun plowing on.

I just noticed an itch on my head and touching my scalp noted that I have a small crust at that spot. Late afternoon yesterday I found myself leaning under our microwave replacing the cook-top light on its underside. I also remember whacking my head on the corner of one of the kitchen cabinets. It’s amazing how quickly one can put ‘two and two’ together.

This leads me to Segway into some reflections I had earlier this week. From this (and tied to me whacking my head) comes this short YouTube on the human brain. Enjoy!

Then, in my morning mail came notice that it was time to sign up for Paddlefest 2022 in August. Last August I did the 10-mile kayak run on the mighty Ohio River (but owned by Kentucky).

Taxes — As you know from a week ago, my taxes are done and have been submitted. This also means that I’m in much better shape to enjoy the annual blossoming of spring as plants put on their grand display. Here are two examples from just this week.

The joy of Kabuki Theater – is missing this go-around of the Confirmation Hearings. Especially missing is the stream of slanderous dives into the nominee’s high school yearbooks. This go around it’s much more boring. However, there are some snippets embedded deep within these quotations:

”Abraham Lincoln once asked an audience how many legs a dog has if you count the tail as a leg. When they answered “five,” Lincoln told them the answer was four. The fact that you called the tail a leg did not make it a leg.” ~ Thomas Sowell, Professor Emeritus

”When every Judicial nominee calls herself an “originalist”, the method cuts no ice. If everything is originalism, nothing is.” ~ Adrian Vermeule, Professor of Constitutional Law, Harvard Law School

Steel Drums – Thursday we couldn’t wait to head out to Vai’s school to listen to a concert as she and her Steel Drum band mates put on quite a show. Listen to this piece called “Shut up and Dance” and keep in mind that everything you hear are percussion instruments. Great stuff!

Time with the grandkids – from performing some public service (with Adrianne & Vai), this was sorting Adult Diapers at Matthew 25: Ministries. And with at least as much fun, cleaning and taking a ride in ‘Our Duck’, the little Citroën Deux Chevaux.

Fini –
• Here in Ohio we’re still struggling to settle on the Congressional redistricting. Until the courts approve we can’t be certain when exactly our mid-term elections will happen. This also means that we can’t predict when exactly the next Covid-19 variant will emerge – but rest assured it will show up just in time, that’s a certainty.

• A ‘remember when’ moment. Remember when, for weeks on end, we were bombarded on a daily basis with salacious news of Trump, someone named ‘Stormy Daniels’, and an attorney named Avenatti? Well you might have missed (since the news didn’t bother to inform), that the 9th Circuit ruled the Daniels lawsuit frivolous and that she owes Trump nearly $300,000.

• Any one of you ever shake the last bit from a jar of Paprika? Ours has been hanging about the kitchen for at least a decade.

• Last weekend Kirstin led a Bridesmaid Party, outdoors in Leander, TX. Good to hear that this was her leading the ladies in a calming Yoga session rather than some raucous event. Good for you Kirstin.

• About six years ago we went to a Lenten Fish Fry at the Eagles Hall in nearby St. Bernard. I ended up requiring a Heimlich when a piece of bread got stuck. Last evening Marcia and I went to the place for the first time since that event. It was great! It reminded me of all the Fish Fries we’ve been missing in Wharncliffe and Thessalon on our Canada seasons.

• Often we talk about “the good old days.” This photo (colorized by Marina Amaral) shows a Sunday afternoon in Gordonton, NC in 1939. It sure did seem a lot calmer, but then, summer heat does promote more sitting around.

• Also remember that the Pleistocene Ice Age is still cooling. The previous ice age (the Karoo) lasted 100M years, the Pleistocene is only a mere 1.6M years old. No reason to panic – yet!

Best till next weekend. Let’s hope that wiser heads prevail as this week progresses. Don’t forget those caught under ‘jackboots’ throughout the world.

Dirk

Morning all; Marcia was already up with coffee made when I woke up – must be a celebration in honor of the first day of spring; to you all, a happy Saturday and happy springtime. And, I do hope you caught sight of the full moon, the worm moon, a couple of days ago, it was a lovely sight.

Our Zoo as well as our nearby Spring Grove cemetery are both also registered Botanical Gardens and the latter also an Arboretum. And, by the way, both are located a mere neighborhood away. Now, in short order, they’ll both be in full bloom (pun intended).

Taxes — Yesterday, shortly after 2:00PM, I sat at our dining room table (where I am sitting now) ‘hunting & pecking’ away on this week’s Ramblings. Anyway, all of last year’s required paperwork was quickly encircling me.

About the time that Marcia announced dinnertime I was in the final throws of completion as I plowed through Turbo Tax 2021. One small hiccup, a final page showed me as the ‘recipient’ with an address that had the State of residence as CA. I couldn’t change. I also couldn’t correct it.

After dinner I had a ‘Live Chat’ technician on the hook for nearly two hours. Eventually she overrode that piece. Finally, everything was accepted and e-mailed to both the State and the Feds. This morning I am staring at two new emails from Turbo Tax with the header; “ACTION NEEDED!” Then in smaller text; “Your 2021 Personal return was rejected. This happens from time to time, but we’re here to help.”

Now what? Now, how much more time is required dinking around further? Didn’t I hear, year after year, that in the near future we’d do our taxes on a Postcard? It’s been said that nothing is as certain as death and taxes. I know I’m on the way towards the one, but the other too seems to be accelerating.

After two weeks – in Austin, fine weeks I must say, I am home. Kirstin claims that we got everything on her to-do list done. If so, I had a blast doing it. The list was varied. From a chip in her windshield, a replacement ‘key’ to her gas fireplace, to more involved stuff like a doggy-door (Piper-the-dog thinks it wonderful) and the powerwashing the final side of the backyard fence (a neighbor sent a text to her making note of it).

Aside from that, the time spent with Derek, Kellen, and Kirstin was wonderful. This included watching two, vintage, Sherlock Holmes movies. But, the event which garnered the most high-fives was Derek backing their freshly washed car into the garage with me in the passenger seat. This was a first! It was accomplished spot-on perfect!

And, rest assured, there was some time for a bit of relaxation.

A century of The Big One – This month in 1922 under the call letters of WLW AM 700, “The Big One”, began broadcasting. Started by Powel Crosley Jr who wanted a radio in every Crosley car sold and a cheap radio set in every home (the $7 Harko radio) began broadcasting.

To make it even better he set up a state-of-the-art studio for a complete live broadcasts as well as starting live baseball sports broadcasts. Dubbed “The Nation’s Station” it jump started the careers of many, including Red Skelton and Jazz biggies such as “Fats” Waller. It’s truly a wonderful story.

At 5,000 watts, it was billed as the first ‘super power’ station. Eventually it was granted to increase the output to an unprecedented 500,000 watts. To give an idea of what that was like, locals reported receiving the signal through their teeth fillings, it could be heard off-shore in the Pacific, and it was the only station mentioned by Hitler as being a pain in his side. The four tubes pushing out this power were transported three or four per train box car.

Today, no clear channel station can operate beyond 50,000 watts. The last time the old tubes were used was at midnight New Year 2000 when fear of computer disruption was widespread. The old tubes were fired up and the station ran for 15-minutes using the old technology while the computer century crossover was checked.

Fini –
• If you remember what this little widget was used for, then you’re as old as me.

• This past week the Irish were feted. This is how the ‘Nati handled the event (we also had a parade).

• A bit actor named Jussie Smollett was convicted of a felony hate crime hoax, sentenced, and a day or so later released from jail while awaiting his appeal. Meanwhile, un-convicted folk, mostly charged with ‘trespassing’ on January 6, 2021 are still in pre-trial detention. Nah, it’s nothing political.

• A ‘remember when’ moment occurred this week when Zelenskyy received a standing ovation from congress. Wasn’t it a short couple of years ago when the same Zelenskyy told the same Congress that there was no ‘quid pro quo’ on a call with Trump and he wasn’t believed? Just thinking.

• We’re watching how the Polish people have been accepting and welcoming to the refugees from Ukraine. In that light, I thought it to be interesting to post a map I found marking every Catholic Church in Poland. Could this be a player?

• This past week the women’s NCAA swimming competition was held. As expected, the Trans competitor won handily. This whole ‘adjustment’ on how sport records can be made and broken would be even better if we went a step further and move towards holding Trans-Species races. This photo of world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, coming in second explains fully. Wouldn’t the world be just electrified watching a cheetah win?

• What exactly is going on as we watch the inflation rate creep (jump) up?
2017 Trump – 1.7%
2018 Trump – 1.65%
2019 Trump – 1.7%
2020 Trump – 1.4%
2021 Biden – 14%
2022 Biden – 14.9%

• A side door adjacent to where I was sitting at my gate for the flight home, I spotted this. A black wall with a heavy duty, four steel hinged door, a lit sign when in use, two strobe lights (green & blue) contained in a box set up for speaker, a secure electric entry, and a sign stating; “CBP Outbound Search”. This next to a gate used mostly for smaller commuter style aircraft. Any conspiracy theorists with an idea?

• I am watching unions trying to gain foothold at places like Starbucks and Amazon. At a time when our administration is promoting ‘unity’, isn’t a union all about division? Isn’t it a wedge between employer and employee? Assuming work and pay are acceptable why pay dues to a union? How it works negatively to the extreme is the spectacle witnessed these past months between players and owners in MLB?

• And, on top of it all, I have started up my exercise routine after what turned out to be pretty well a two-week hiatus.

Best till next weekend. Stay happy, stay healthy, and keep of all those oppressed and in fear in your hears and mind.

Dirk

Morning all; on the verge of Spring we have another so-called “bomb cyclone” weather phenomenon. And yes, I did look up whether or not there is such a thing. There is! It’s a winter storm that is created through a process called “bombogenesis”; a storm which will see a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure, plummeting by 0.71 of an inch of mercury or more within 24 hours.

When I talked with Marcia last evening she described it as a “white blanket of death” which had started to fall. That explains it better.

Here in Austin it only turned cold and very windy. All the overwintered plants we took out a week ago are back in the garage. And, oh yes, I only packed clothing for a 60 – 80 degree range; not good!

For those in the path — of the ’bomb’ cyclone I captured some seaside shoreline sounds, magically generated by my little bedside Marpac sound generator. I am hoping that this will improve your mood.

Best project – has been the Doggy Door. If for no other reason than not having to get up every time Piper-the-dog wants to head into the yard. So, this project took center stage early on. Initially it was bit of coaxing to get her to use it; the video below shows her very first attempt. But, by day three she had become a fearless pro. The process was totally satisfying.

Quote of the week –

”Bravery is not the absence of fear. Bravery is feeling the fear, the doubt, the insecurity, and deciding that something else is more important.” ~ Mark Manson, author

This week’s quote could be a guide for those fighting for Freedom everywhere, whether truckers in Canada or citizens in the Ukraine.

As I spotted elsewhere: “The spread of communism starts when people are silenced. Free speech is the first freedom citizens lose”.

Fini –

• As a walker, I recently read that the longest continuous walking path in the world is: 22,387Km.

• Probably photo shopped. But these days I wouldn’t be surprised if it were true.

• Vili had a school project. He studied and then made a class presentation on Bob Dylan. Scored a solid ‘A’. Kudos Vili!

• Dinah has been back on the water training as a member of her rowing team. While walking in Austin, I spotted her competition’s digs.

• Teaching Derek the fine art of grilling, and that adding the right herbs and spices is much more than a good thing. Good times!

• Surgical instruments from Roman times. These look like they’d be in use today.

• Now can’t wait for my favorite breakfast; multi-grain toast, loaded with fresh Avocado, and sprinkled with ‘Everything but the Bagel’. 

Best till next weekend – homeward bound on Tuesday.

Dirk

Morning all; Even though it’s still dark and quiet this week’s Ramblings will arrive a little later than normal. Changing time zones does that you know.

I started setting my watch while still in the air heading for Kirstin’s. Let it be known that my Casio Pro Trek is the best watch I’ve ever had (a gift from Jason a few years ago). With over 30 city settings and the ability to set time via longitude and latitude means only one thing – deadly accuracy.

45-minutes of trying had my time set several hours off, That evening at Kirstin’s here in Austin, had me work on the thing another hour; to no avail.

I downloaded the manual and poked around a few You Tubes. So, when I finally got it correct, to the minute, in Austin’s Central time zone it was almost a bit of a let-down, A ho-hum moment. What I have learned to do is keep looking at the thing just to make certain it hadn’t changed time zones on its own.

First three days in Austin — I realized the evening prior to my leave-at-dawn flight that my sinuses were set to explode with the beginning of a cold. It had been so long since I had one, that what was left from the Cold Alka-seltzer Plus tablets years ago were now mere ‘bits’ in swollen packages.

Even though I am still searching for new, secret, locations where Kirstin hides the Kleenex, I am definitely on the mend. “Plink, Plink, Fizz” thank you very much.

Tools in hand – Actually, I’ve already gotten a pretty decent jump on the “To-Do” list. Simple stuff like dragging potted garden plants from their winter storage in the garage into the yard; with the help of Derek. Then, it was on to the slightly more complex, repairing a kitchen cupboard hinge.

Most noticeable was the setting in order of the backyard Pergola – this was celebrated by Kirstin and I making use of the place. Anyway, there are a dozen or so items on the list. Most fun will be dealing with the security camera/lights above the garage door.

Quote of the week –

”I do not want my picture in your offices, for the President is not an icon or a portrait. Hang your kid’s photos instead – and look at them each time you are making a decision.” ~ Volodymyr Zelenskyy President of the Ukraine

Recently I read (forget where exactly) that everything reported about war by governments, mainstream media, much alternative media, and by the ignorant public at large, is little more than lies and deceit. Assuming that to be correct (and it probably is), it’s an opportune time to quote Orwell one more time:
“War is peace.
Freedom is slavery.
Ignorance is strength.” George Orwell, 1984

Fini –
• Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas made mention that this past week 15 Russians and 15 Chinese were apprehended crossing the border illegally. The question is why, and how many more actually made it? Why are we not controlling our border?

• Last weekend I made my way through a new section of the walking trail. Something new to explore and to see.

• One way as a reminder that you’re living in a city founded by German immigrants. Just look at the signs and the buildings.

• The current administration had our AG write a letter to the DOJ asking them to monitor parents who seek change (especially with School Boards promoting Critical Race Theory style agendas) and view them as Domestic Terrorists. Now 14 States are using Freedom of Information Act channels to have the AG turn over communications with the National School Boards Association. Just thought you’d want to know.

• George Chakiris starred in the 1961 movie; West Side Story. He was Bernardo and a member of the Sharks. Turns out he was born in a house I pass weekly on my exercise walks – on Sherman Avenue. Apparently his father, a Greek immigrant had a sweet shop in the front of the place. Currently it’s a home contracting business.

• Russia’s attack on the largest European Nuclear Power Plant, the Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine has now been labeled a War Crime. Since the ‘world’ appears to speechify mostly, what exactly does this mean?

Best till next weekend – after which I’ll finish my taxes.

Dirk

Morning all; What a week it’s been — and it’s not over yet. Pray for the people of the Ukraine as another ruthless dictator tries for an early start towards domination.

KHARKIV, Ukraine — is one of Cincinnati’s nine sister cities around the world. It is under attack after Russia invaded, without provocation, the Ukraine this week.

Delegations from the two cities met and signed documents; and as a result Cincinnati and Kharkiv, have been sister cities since September 11, 1989. Over 2,500 Cincinnati citizens have visited Kharkiv as a result, and currently there is a Cincinnati student-art exhibit there.

Buildings in our town are showing the colors of Ukraine as a symbol of solidarity. Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city, 20-miles from the Russian border, is being targeted.

All of this begs the question, how and to what use are the millions of dollars we pump into the United Nations spent; has anyone heard a peep from them? Why has Putin not yet been cited with “crimes against humanity”? In fact, why do we continue to support the UN and its featherbedding ‘diplomats’?

Our current diplomatic – link in Europe is our Foreign Relations ‘expert’, Kamala Harris. She’s been recorded with the following gem; “Within the context then of the fact that that window is still opening, although, open, although it is absolutely narrowing, but within the context of a diplomatic path still being open.”

I cannot but marvel at this perfectly created ‘word-salad’.

Quote of the week – My favorite this week is from Elon Musk on Twitter to Senator Elizabeth Warren who commented on Musk (and other Billionaires) not paying enough in taxes;

”Will visit IRS next time I’m in DC just to say hi, since I paid the most taxes ever in history for an individual last year. Maybe I can have a cookie or something….” ~ Elon Musk

Canada – watching as it devolved into an updated version of a banana republic. Prime Minister Trudeau hob-nobs much better with the Devos crowd than with his own people. So, rather than meeting with the very folk, citizenry who only wanted discourse, he set on a path of sending in his ‘jackboots’.

I should point out that during the Ottawa protest not a single business was looted or burned down. The homeless were fed by the truckers of the Freedom Convoy and the streets were kept spotless. The street in front of Parliament was turned into an ice rink for kids. Veterans maintained security around the statues. These were the people called demagogues and treated like scum. No request to communicate was even answered.

Dutifully the police, military style, obeyed and crushed the protest rally. In a nation where 95+% of the mainstream media is on the public dole (to the tune of over $1.2-Billion) reporting following the party line is the standard.

There were exceptions (very few). So when Trudeau’s RCMP Calvary trampled an elderly woman on a mobility scooter – who turned out to be an elder in the Mohawk nation, things didn’t look so good. And, this event was reported world-wide by a number of alternative news sources.

Birthday – with just a day (and year) apart from mine is former Beatle, the late George Harrison (February 25, 1943). Musically the best Beatle and known as ‘the quiet Beatle’ – something I share with him in my family; I’m known in our family as ‘the quiet one’. Correct – yes?

Thursday I had a day worth remembering and was showered with more love then I could have conjured up in my wildest dreams. Pictures have already been shared with family, but here are a couple for everyone. Enjoy!

Fini –
• G.K. Chesterton is one of those who can encapsulate thought brilliantly, such as: “You do not know a tyranny until it is on top of you; until it has you in a trap. The tyrant is not present until he is omnipresent.”

• Years ago, on a business trip in Egypt, I visited the pyramids in Giza. Actually climbed down the shaft to the funerary chamber. This week I came across this cut-away of what all is inside the structure and thought you’d appreciate.

• Professional MLS soccer’s season is starting today. This evening at 6:00PM our team, FC-Cincinnati will be playing Austin-FC in Austin. Last time I was in Austin I swung by their brand new (it was still under construction) stadium. Now, I am missing seeing this opener by just a few days. Grrrr!

• On my favorite walking trail it passes along the backyards of some houses. This family painted their fence and cut a couple of holes in it so that their two (pretty ‘yippy’) dogs can also see what’s going on. Reverse Zoo maybe?

• Painting by numbers can also make for a stunning picture. This was done by Kirstin to hang in the cabin. Since were here and not there we hung it here. Pretty sweet, don’t you agree?

• This past season our Bengal’s did pretty well. The “Who Dey” cheer was heard everywhere. Now, from the UK, comes this virtual Pub.

This evening Marcia and I will head for our favorite teeny-tiny hole in the wall Italian place – Biagio’s Bistro. After which we’ll walk two businesses over to the city’s best alternative movie theater. There we’re going to see Bill Murray read poetry and music by world renowned cellist Jan Vogler “rock the Acropolis in Greece” in a movie titled: NEW WORLDS: THE CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION.

It’s touted as; “a timeless mix of music, literature and poetry”. Murray will also be joined by piano and violin. Held at the 2,000 year old stage of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus it’ll feature music from Bach to van Morrison, Whitman to West Side Story. Marcia and I are both psyched and pumped!

OK, I know I need to complete my Taxes – just haven’t done it yet.

Best till next weekend – from Austin.

Dirk

Morning all; Saturday morning and 10-days before what seemed an eternity away last October 20th – it’ll be March 1st. It’s really HAPPENING! Our official harbinger of spring’s arrival!

 End of the road – is an reality; for everything. This week for me will be some kind of formal  notification as I celebrate (think; ‘march towards’) my birthday. This birthday has me ponder the iconic phrase by President Abraham Lincoln who started his Gettysburg Address with; “four score and seven years ago”. For me, I’ll be reminded that I am well underway clawing towards that number.

At Christmas time  – Kirstin introduced me to a book titled ‘A Beginner’s Guide to the End’ by B J Miller, MD and Shoshana Berger. It’s a wealth of understanding, a fount of knowledge, and easy to read. Whether we’re 20 or 80 we are all subject to the fragility of life itself. The book handles it.

The chapter on Hospital entry, processing, staying, and discharge is a beauty. Have an ‘easy-to-clear-up’ issue and it’s like going to a Fast Food restaurant and quickly emerge with a ‘Happy’ meal.

Need more and it becomes something like a top-of-the-line French place such as The French Laundry where the menu registers $$$$$. That place comes complete with a maître d’, a sommelier, wait staff, bar staff, sous chef, chef, dessert baker, busser, etc. Plus, a myriad of cutlery, glassware, and dishes; all with a specific function, all much more than merely baffling, overwhelming, and perplexing: hospitals are like that. The book gives you ‘hacks’ to make the process do-able.

What a great gift that was. I thought I’d share on the day after I updated my own Living Will.

This ‘shocker’ – hit our news cycle this week. Oh, the HORROR of it all:

Quotes of the week – for my Canadian friends and readers – and for thinking folk wherever.

”The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command” ~ George Orwell ‘1984’

And for anyone who needs a smile [read it carefully it is NOT a typo and it’s deeper than you think]:

”will Trudeau fidel while Canada burns?” ~ Scott Adams (creator of the Dilbert comic strip)

I’ve been asked why my focus on Canada? I love Canada, I love Canadians. We have property in Canada and we’ve lived in Canada. It is through a demagogue Prime Minister who functions little beyond that of an adolescent teenager that I’ve watched, almost in mere weeks, this great nation, devolve into an ugly statist system.

Exactly, what is it I’m talking about? This couple of minute Press announcement by Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister will explain. This is how her government is retroactively managing what had been a legal protest; initiated without any legislative sanction. A protest declared illegal retroactively by Canada’s current administration, on the basis of being publicly identified by the media, using stolen data from a fundraising website; all without a shred of direct knowledge of any violence.

Trudeau has launched a digital gulag whereby any Canadian citizen can be ‘erased’ without a shot being fired. It is also something of concern to all free peoples. Merely two months ago, no Canadian ever thought this could happen to them – with this ‘play’ bills can’t get paid, Credit Cards won’t function, ATM’s sit silent, and Savings accounts are locked! Totally OK and normal; in a free society?

Word of the week – For my friends in Canada as they watch their Government run rough shot over and negating their Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms comes this word:
“Hew” ~ the word has changed from shaping something to conforming or adhering to something, as to “hewing to the line”!
Quiz: Unscramble the letters LOPCMY into a word meaning to conform.

Fini –
• A week ago marked the anniversary – February 9, 1969 – of the Boeing 747 airliner. My absolute favorite to fly. The most special run was to Beijing, with brother Pieter where we had seats 1A and 1B. Marvelous – thanks again Pieter!

• Every so often Marcia tries to breach the subject with one of the grand-kids – to little avail. So, who remembers taking a ‘typing’ class in middle or high school?

• One more Ontario, Canada bit. Last week’s Super Bowl in LA’s SoFi center had it filled – most being maskless. Meanwhile it’s “illegal” to have more than 10 people in your home in Ontario.

• We had a Super Bowl party. It was an all-out food event. Amongst the edibles brought to the party was this from the Charcuterie tray brought by Marcia – the only bits left when everything ended. OK, what are you looking at? What in the world are these things anyway?

• Looking over on my desk I am reminded by Elon Musk’s words: “If you give yourself 30 days to clean your home it will take 30 days. But, if you give yourself 3 hours, it will take 3 hours.

• Back into a groove on my exercise program, walking, resistance workouts, and swimming. This was last Tuesday.

• Thursday we’ll be enjoying a dinner at Montgomery Inn (the Boathouse one for you aficionados). Can’t wait. Eating at the place is always a special joy!

Dinah won her indoor rowing race held this week. Fastest novice! Proud of you kiddo! Race held at the Boathouse as it is their winter training center (same as the place noted above)

Finally, this from Victor Hugo: “Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent”

Maybe I’ll next spend a little time working on the very special birthday gift from brother Pieter. Yes it’s a Rubik’s Cube, but instead of 9-tiles per side, this one has 25! It is also made up of photos from my past. On second thought, it’ll be better to just look at it some more.

OK, actually it’s now Tax time – the official end to 2021.

Proceed!

Best till next weekend.

Dirk

Morning all; we’re Baaaack! After a week which proved to be way too short. Many great memories were stored during the week. And now, a flood of them emerge as I take my first sips of morning coffee. By the way, this is Who Dey! weekend. A certain 50-year old franchise, which has made this community go bonkers, will emerge winners at Super Bowl LVI.

Face Plant – has become a regular pastime of mine. Leaving town last weekend was no different. This time it was stepping out of the car at the airport onto a patch of glaze ice. It was a ‘first’ for me; going through TSA with blood running down my leg – at least I still managed going through the ‘Pre-Check’ line.

I did get to see our flight get De-Iced – twice over:

Quote of the week – for any given February winter’s day:

”Fellow heart owners – walk off that headache instead. Just don’t walk too fast. Especially if it’s snowing. And you missed breakfast. And you’re worried about lockdown. And you recently made a bed. Let’s be careful out there, that’s all I am saying.” ~ Neil Oliver

The brothers together – and as Sandy said; “So fun to see the four of you laughing till you cried. Forever young!” It was a a weekend way more than special.

We, the four brothers, needed to practice a special routine done to a Dutch Birthday song for our twin cousins in Amsterdam. I think that we struggled somewhat more than anticipated. The birthday girls in Amsterdam we could hear/see laughing on Face Time so I think it worked.

Whenever a get together happens, food plays a major role. How about Dutch Zoute Haring and cheeses?

How about stacks of Dutch pancakes made on the grill outside?

How about bottles of Limoncello made of lemons from Art’s tree?

How about a chicken salad to die for?

How about a ‘Cuban’ croquette sandwich?

How about Art fixing a great Risotto?

But best of all – just sitting and talking. Just walking and talking. Even just playing ‘footsie’!

Word of the week – For my friends in Canada as they watch their Government run rough shot over all their published rights:
“Inquination” ~ (15 century): the action of polluting, defiling, or corrupting.
Powerfully accurate word during these times! Thinking of you all.

As I read recently:

the truckers should tell the government, “the sooner you comply, the sooner we can go back to normal. We’re all in this together.”

Not to be left out, here is a bit of Trudeau ‘brilliance’ directly from his mouth:

”I can understand frustrations with mandates, but mandates are the way to avoid further restrictions.” What a clown!

As a Will Chamberlain observed; “how many trucks can Trudeau tow if the tow trucks won’t tow trucks?”

Game of the Day – an update of an old one, now re-named: “Where’s Trudo?”

Fini –
• Our hometown corporation, Procter & Gamble has a series of cleaning establishments called, Tide Cleaners. This week they’re cleaning any Orange item for free.

• With a number of birthdays falling this month, I paid a little more attention to the, somewhat, morbid. This is a proposal by Pat Sajak who just designed his tombstone. It’ll read: “R _ P. I’d like to buy a vowel.”

• Happy Birthdays to Dave Z, Karen H, and Jacqueline P.

• Barely a week goes by without hearing the phrase “Climate Change” so this is my offering for this week (couldn’t resist): “If we divide 125 genders by three bathrooms, how much climate change do we have?”

Please, no phone calls tomorrow evening. We’ll be immersed in our current Football glory with the Bengals, and thus busy watching a win unfold.

Have a wonderful new week and stay positive, be healthy, and skip all thoughts of performing your own Face Plant.

Best till next weekend.

Dirk – who does a Swan dive at any airport of choice.

Morning all; it’s been a cold week, a week where it’s even a bit difficult to stay truly warm. Yes, we have heat, but, with single digit temperatures all around – let’s just say, “it permeates”. Having said that, I’ll pour some hot java.

One thing I should notify you of; later this coming week I’ll be traveling to FL for a brothers gathering. It’ll be a great time for me, but NO Ramblings for you to peruse next Saturday.

Chaos and Mayhem – as our street corner is known I’ve not reported on these past several weeks. I just felt that week after week commenting on Chaos & Mayhem was getting somewhat stale. However, it doesn’t mean that it is a less active place. This photo was from yesterday morning when two police cruisers had our side street shut down after a car tried to take down a tree. The tree won that battle – all because of 2-inches of snow.

Quote of the week – is a traditional Turkish Proverb:

”when a clown moves into a palace, he doesn’t become a king. The palace becomes a circus”

If it’s not too scary, peruse (noodle) on that a little. Maybe tie it together with this Turkish proverb; “The fish rots from the head”.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day – was Thursday, January 27th. I thought you’d appreciate of this piece of history. King Mohammed V of Morocco saved 250,000 Jews living in his nation from certain prosecution and likely a cruel death.

During the WWII Holocaust years, France’s pro-Nazi Vichy regime insisted Jewish citizens in Morocco be reported and marked for deportation.

King Mohammed V resisted. He refused to ghettoize and deport these people saying; “there are no Jews in Morocco only Moroccan citizens.”

Now, that was an example of true leadership! [click; for a thorough history of Morocco and European intervention in the Barbary Coast region]

Truckin’ Through Trudeaupia¹ (Being on the wrong side of history) – Once again, Justin Trudeau the Prime Minister of Canada is on the wrong side of history. This time it’s the Freedom Convoy 2022.

Quoting Trudeau at a Press Conference regarding the Convoy; “The small fringe minority of people who are on their way to Ottawa, who are holding unacceptable views that they are expressing, do not represent the views of Canadians.”

Arriving today in Canada’s capital, Ottawa, will begin to see the first of possibly 50,000 heavy trucks. To give some scope of this event, those arriving from the western portion of Canada had the first ones crossing into Ontario from Manitoba while the trailing convoy trucks had just entered into Manitoba from Saskatchewan – a distance of 300 miles.

Apparently as many as 10,000 U.S. truckers will try to cross into Canada or assemble at border areas on the U.S.A. side to commiserate with the Canadian truckers.

Thousands upon thousands everyday Canadians are cheering the Convoy as it passes while offering hot drinks and foods and braving below 0 temperatures.

Now, the heavy hitters are joining in; in support Elon Musk of Tesla fame, (71,000,000 Social Media followers) Tweeted; “Canadian Truckers rule”.

What was what Trudeau said again; “The small fringe minority of people who are on their way to Ottawa……….blah, blah, blah”? Yeah right!
(¹) Copied from a headline by Mark Steyn

Filibustering – Our president whom I shall not name; the one who has no core values, the one who acts as a ‘windsock’ – gauging how the ‘wind’ blows.

Here is what I mean. President ‘windsock’ touts his love for people of color. Is that why in 2003 he filibustered for nearly two years fighting the nomination of then – California Supreme Court, Justice Janice Rogers Brown to the D.C. Circuit?

[If he and others of his Party had not blocked the nomination, Justice Janice Rogers Brown most likely would have been our first black female Justice]

In case you think this was a unique occurrence, he did the same with the nomination of another black Justice nominated for the Supreme Court. To President ‘windsock’ diversity is cool, but only to score points.

The cited occurrences were President ‘windsock’ during his pro-filibuster phase. Apparently he has now shifted that position too. The man is a sham.

James Burnham – (1905 – 1987) was an American philosopher and political theorist. He chaired the philosophy department at New York University, and during WWII led the “Political and Psychological Warfare” division of the Office of Policy Coordination in a forerunner of the CIA. President Reagan awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Amongst a series of books he wrote was the Managerial Revolution (1941).

Similarly to George Orwell he was a visionary. Burnham saw the growth of Capitalism culminating into the dominant world force. But, he also foresaw the demise of Capitalism. His thinking was that wasn’t Socialism replacing Capitalism, but new elite – the Manager.

Just a thought, but can anyone tell me what exactly is going on these days? As of late, exactly what has emerged as a dominant force? Is it government leaders or is it the power exerted by governmental bureaus and business entities? Do they report to anyone? These are solid questions.

Take note, the attached video is pretty detailed but is 15-minutes in length.

Quote to close the week –

“… truth, whose mother is history, who is the rival of time, depository of deeds, witness of the past, example and lesson to the present, and warning to the future.” ~ Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Author, best known for his novel Don Quixote (printed as; “El Igenioso hidalgo Don Quijote de la Mancha”) this month in 1605.

Powerful insight!

Fini –
• The early death of Nazism was opening the Eastern front (i.e. Russia) in winter. Now we, having scraped our knuckles disastrously while hastening out of Afghanistan (aka the burial ground of nations), we are hovering to do fight with Russia – in winter. “Brilliant” I says sarcastically.

• Tevita has finally been able to text (and with one brother talk) in Tonga. So, he’s finally been able to communicate with family. They are all fine. In fact, his mother in Vava’u mainly got ash, but little other damage.

• Not my original but spotted on-line; “can’t believe that we do not have world peace after changing the name on pancake boxes and syrup bottles.”

• We really have forgotten just how ruthless some regimes were and some still are. The Stalin regime systematically destroyed the Mongolian culture. Queen Genepil (1905-1938) was the last queen of Mongolia. After the death of her husband she was arrested and executed, thereby destroying the last vestiges of what had been Mongolia.

• Barely a week goes by without hearing the phrase “Climate Change”. The narrative is always the same and covers everything – all is caused by Climate Change; and thus all is bad. However, have no fear, everything can be fixed: just pony-up, more taxes!

• This neighborhood (hobbit) house had its cedar shingle roof replaced. I watched the process (progress); 4 guys, 5 weeks.

• Now that we’re having a cold snap, I’ve gotten into a bit of a rhythm. Daily workout using Resistance bands and (trying for three times per week) lap swim events at the gym.

• “Keep on knitting in the free world”, by Marcia

The plan is to head out for Jungle Jim’s where, as part of our current Football glory with the Bengals, we’ll see someone sit in a bathtub filled with Cincinnati Chili. I am told it’ll take 20-gallons in case you’re wondering.

Have a wonderful new week and stay positive, be healthy, and continue swimmingly.

Best till we write again.

Dirk

Morning all; waiting for another minute or two while Mr. Coffee finishes gurgling – very distracting at 4:45. While waiting, let me share this quote:

The greatest lie man has ever told himself is that “not losing” is the same as “winning ~ Josh Denny

There, now coffee is ready, let’s get started.

Tonga news – All week our whole family has been scanning for news from Tonga and the eruption of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai volcano and what is referred to as a “once in a millennium event.’

The eruption was so massive that even astronauts aboard the International Space Station spotted the resulting dust cloud and were able to photograph it.

After attempt upon attempt, all week long, late last evening Tevita and Adrianne finally posted this news: “Update: Tevita was able to talk with his brother and get positive updates on other family members. Still so much recovery, but a relief to know they are safe. Communication is still spotty so keep trying for those eager to hear.”

Don’t stop with your prayers for those in that country and their losses and with thanks for the ongoing rescue efforts.

Only a Drone – We have rules and we have laws. Plus we have the CIA and the FBI. Plus we have the FAA. The FAA? Yup, drone flying over a filled stadium is ‘verboten’ and carries a $30,000 to $50,000 dollar fine. Someone flew over our stadium at last week’s playoff game and got some excellent footage. They haven’t been caught – yet.

Bill our artist friend – Our longtime friend Bill M., now well past age 90, loves the paint ‘Dead Airplanes’ (those of WWII vintage). Bill moved East last year to be closer to his daughter.

But it was Bill who sparked my interest in reading about a painter named Graig Kreindler. See, Graig paints ‘Dead Baseball Players’. Two of his works I thought you might appreciate. One is of Ted Williams when he was a 20-year old rookie about ready to debut at Yankee Stadium.

The other painting is a work in-progress of pitcher Sandy Koufax beginning what would become a no-hitter against Philadelphia in 1964. Wonderful works. Enjoy and appreciate!

Doctors emerging – Covid-19 and the harsh pandemic power grabs with accompanying restrictions had thousands of Doctors, Scientists, and specialists ‘hunker’ down for their own job safety and security – tow that line! Now that much of what was promulgated and now starting to be debunked, these folk are beginning to raise their heads. This from one such individual, Vinay Prasad, MD MPH; “Something is deeply broken with our Covid policy if the more vaccine doses you get in your arm, the more layers of mask you wear, the more restrictions you face.”

Hegelian Dialectic – Look up the definition of; ‘Hegelian Dialectic’. Oh, heck, let me save you a little time. Hegelian Dialectics; “refers to the creation of a problem. The problem creates a reaction. If there is enough fear and hysteria people will not only accept the solution that limits their rights but will actually beg for it”.

Want real world examples? Just look around at civilized nations such as Canada or Australia. The advancing of more and more by authorities often is accomplished by first isolating groups of people who are labeled ‘undesirable’. Past examples include Venezuela, and Germany in the 1930s leading into WWII.

Start thinking of places like Quebec where getting medical attention or even shopping requires showing a “Vaccine Passport”. But here? In our country? This video from NY City and has a 9-year old taken in for trying to gain entry at the Museum of Natural History – without a vaccination card.

Desert – Last evening, facing a very cold night, Marcia made a favorite old Dutch dish: Boerenkool Stampot (Kale Hash) with smoked sausage. Comfort food at its best! What came a little later for desert was a total surprise especially with such a presentation. The best!

Quote of the week – This after a two-hour meandering Press Conference complete with ‘word salad’ earlier in the week:

”Nothing built, nothing is back, and nothing is better” ~ Kam Bree

Fini –
• Bernice King; “My mother wasn’t behind my father. Where does that come from?” A reflection on the March from Selma on Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday holiday.

• The Grammy Awards are being moved to Las Vegas. Possibly so that members of this most elite body can avoid California’s Covid mandates which they’ve promoted?

• Our newest teenager is over-the-moon with her new platform shoes, a gift from her BFF, Eliana.

• Barely mentioned in the news is that the other very cold day saw over 100,000 people marching peacefully in DC as part of the annual March for Life. Now that science has advanced and is challenging (actually its ‘negating’) what was known back in 1973, I believe we’re watching the beginning of the end for Roe v. Wade. I am more than glad, especially as a grandparent of a now thriving young person who began her entry into the world at well under 2 pounds. All life is precious, all life matters.

• My favorite ‘Meme’ of the week. This is a classic!

• Growing up I remember climbing around a home being built and jumping from the rafters hitting a board with a nail in it – it went through my shoe and foot. The solution of the era was a cleaning of my foot and watching the little glass applicator of the purple stuff being swabbed about. After a scream, band aids were applied, clean socks put on, and I was sent outside (limping a bit). Was it a different time?

• The Texas synagogue terrorist attack was a 24-hour news story – notice a difference between this and some other ‘attacks’?

• Happy birthday today to nephew Joel. And tomorrow to Cathy. Cathy’s we’ll celebrate with brunch at a nearby Taste of Belgium — I do believe they also have Goetta on the menu,

This afternoon we’ll watch the home team beat some wannabe football players from Nashville.

Have a wonderful new week and stay positive, be healthy, and continue to be connected.

Best till next weekend.

Dirk – droning on