"To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:..." ~ Ecclesiastes 3:1

I am here. All is well. Not to worry. We'll see how long that holds up on this back-top-work Thursday, August 31, 2017. I am at my work workstation for the first time since last Friday. Wow! John Denver is doing his thing in my head, "A'int it good to be back home again." Harvey the Hurricane, AKA, a tropical storm has wreaked havoc, mostly with somewhere around 60 inches of rain. Our home, thank God, has been spared. We haven't had power for around four days, but that, compared to so many others is really nothing to complain about. I didn't say I have not complained. In fact, I've termed myself and the other 73 customers on our street the real Deplorables. On Tuesday afternoon out in our area the sun came out and the sky looked as if it hadn't even made contact with Harvey. Suddenly, the streets were teeming with people. Kids were back on their bicycles and skateboards. Families were out walking here and there. To me, in a very small way, it was like when Noah received that dove with the branch in its mouth back into the ark. We leave Harvey with thankfulness for God's provision and protection along with our heartfelt prayers for so many thousands who have suffered severely at the hands of this storm. That's right. Loss of precious lives and untold damage to property and to people's peace of mind. Okay, John, you can tone it down because I am here and yes, it is good to be back to my home away from home, again.

We have a friend that we've worked with some in the Santa Claus photo business. He likes to book us for some apartment complexes he works with. He passed my name onto an event planning lady. She called me with a specific date. I sent her our information and told her that she should book it soon because it is a Saturday in December and I am certain it will be taken. Suddenly, she started sending me these emails. She is working with some corporate clients. She informs me how particular these corporate clients are and how inflexible they are in their scheduling. I had been mostly dealing with her via email, but, I called her. I told her that I responded to that one date because I did not have anything on my calendar. I then proceeded to explain to her how we work our part of the program. We choose what events we will be involved in. We do not do corporate events unless they are for family and children. We do not do adult parties. We do not do in home visits. She seemed flabbergasted. I told her that we have many folks that have been loyal to us throughout our time doing what we do and that we are loyal to them. We do not have a booking agent. We are not seeking one. She even wants me to sign some kind of contract stating that I will not promote myself while working on her event. Do what? Maybe someday I'll need something like that, but not today. I told her as far as I was concerned I have the one request that I will consider. Nothing more. At this time. I thanked her for her interest and I do admire people who take the ball and run with it, but, slow that train down a little. Thank you.

A couple of weeks ago I showed up here at the workplace and when I got out of my truck I heard a loud booming sound. It was a pounding noise. It sounded like someone in one of our back shop buildings was hitting the side of the wall with a hammer. As I investigated, I could tell the sound was coming from the dumpster. Something was inside and couldn't get out. When our shipping guy arrived I told him about it. He chuckled and said that it happens after the dumpster is emptied and when they go in they can't get out. He was talking about raccoons. He said he had something that would solve the problem. He fetched a long metal pole he had leaning against one of the buildings. He then very tentatively raised the lid on the dumpster and slid the pole down into it. Before he could get out of the way a huge raccoon flew up that pole and jumped out, nearly hitting him on the side of the head. The coon hit the ground and didn't hang around to thank his rescuer because he was on the run. Like greased lightning. Another fellow who used to be here dealt with the same situation differently. His approach involved the use of a 22 caliber pistol. Enough said. I suppose the current fellow is more inclined to live and let live. I think I will leave it there for today, as I try to get my bearings. Do what? The Community Coffee? Thanks for asking. I had my reserve case high and dry on top of my inbox on top of my desk. I thought you would want to know that. May God help all those hurting on this day is my prayer. Amen and Amen. .....More later.

'MISS ME, BUT LET ME GO', Author Unknown: "When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me. I want no rites in a gloom-filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little – but not too long, And not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that was once shared. Miss me, but let me go. For this journey we all must take, and each must go alone. It’s all part of the master’s plan, a step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know. Bear your sorrow in good deeds. Miss me, but let me go."

*** Be careful out there. Either the re-strengthened Hurricane Harvey, or, the remnants of the former Hurricane Harvey, appear to present the potential for a huge sorm and rain event. It is due to make itself known later this evening. Having had our home directly impacted before, I would advise us all to stay tuned and take seriously the potential for flooding. May God protect us all is my prayer. Amen. ***

Well, hello there, my, it seems like just yesterday we were kicking around some thoughts and ideas. Good to have you back on this Friday, August 25, 2017. They do not make canceling stuff easy. That's by design. I signed up for a service without ever talking to a real person so that I could get onto mom's computer and fix her problems. Guess what? You cannot cancel your subscription in the same way. I do not blame the technicians involved. Their number one desire is to talk you out of canceling. I get that. However, they forced me to dial their number to get a very pleasant sounding lady on the line. She was very nice. She eased into the reason I might be canceling by asking if I had been having any recent connectivity issues. I was ready for that one. I put it like this: "I bought your service to be able to log onto my mom's computer to help keep it going. My mom, at age 93, has passed away, so, she will not be using her computer anymore." Dead silence on the other end, no pun intended. She didn't comment on my comment but said she would get on this right away and make sure it is canceled. She thanked me. I thanked her. There was a whole of thanking going on. You know, like the 1971 Elvis hit, "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin On". I do hope she follows up and takes care of my transaction. I wrote down the conversation, just to be sure. And, yes, I do recommend their product. It served us well for several years, GoToMyPC. (Believe me, I used it often.) I do have good news. Before the kind lady went into the meeting to review potential sales responses to 'she died', she took the time to send an email confirming the cancellation. Good for her!

I'm not complaining but the more numbers that I block, it seems to be it is the fewer crank calls I am receiving. You think that is how it is supposed to work? Yeah. But, you do know, they change numbers a lot. I can't be sure if this is a good thing or not but I really do get a big kick out of blocking those low down rotten time thieves. Sorry for the language. It just, more or less, jumped out. The only thing I don't have is a mechanism to melt their phone on the other end. Sorry again. I have no idea where that came from. You saw me admit to not knowing whether getting all frothed up over being able to block a number is healthy or not. I did receive a note from the blocking utility on my little Android phone asking if I could not hit the screen so hard while blocking a number. Maybe the little guy has a touch of arthritis like me. You do know that I am just throwing stuff onto the electronic page, for the fun of it. I will not deny that I do enjoy blocking those dream cruise and real estate mongers, but, as you can see, it really isn't that important to me. To me. To me. To me. Thanks.

It is time to wrap up another week. I wouldn't even want to try and summarize all the different stuff touched on during this cycle. The word plethora comes to mind. And, the always popular, to me, cornucopia. Please don't send any requests asking for my recipes for preparing plethora and cornucopia. Before doing that, I think one should consider that I have perfected the art of blocking. He said, laughing. Not out loud. Not to himself, but, maybe with a wee bit of a whimsical grin. The wife did leave me again. I agree. She does that quite often. She and her sister are headed to visit their elder remaining brother. He turned 82 earlier this week. His name is Cleon. That's him on the left in both photos. The other brother, our dear Brother Milton, the man of God, passed from this life to the next in February of 2016. 'The girls' as they are called, Dorothy and Marilyn, are excited to be on their way to visit him. I've been blessed to have my wife's family as my family for this good long run. Marilyn and I were married on December 18, 1964. We had a couple of days of honeymoon and then we made our way down to Cleon's where the entire family was gathered to celebrate Christmas. That's how it began, so many years ago. Cleon is a faithful neighbor. Bro. Milton, literally, had the power of God on his sermons. The girls are both women of distinction in their testimony and walk for the Lord. Me, well, I'm just home alone, and that's my story. At this time I am sticking with it. I do hope you enjoy your Saturday and that Lord's Day Sunday will find us all in the place of worship celebrating His goodness and provision for us all. (Weather permitting!) See you next time, Lord willing. Amen. ....More later.

“When you start wiping out your history — sanitizing your history — to make you feel better, it’s a bad thing.” ~ Condoleezza Rice, former Secretary of State

Good morning to one and all. I do hope everyone is able to embrace the day with spunk and optimism. Yes, I fully realize, that optimism is hard to come by on this Thursday, August 24, 2017. This rash of statue demolitions is making any kind of sane outlook for our future as a nation hard to envision. Here in our area, a major university is changing the name on a set of their buildings, not because the name itself is connected to something that is currently declared offensive, but, get this, because it sounds like it might be. Don't doubt me on this. They said they were doing it out of an abundance of respect for the sensitivity of their diverse student body. Another university out west has used a white stallion for many years as their school mascot. Big problem. The horse is white. The name of the horse is the same as the name of the horse ridden by Confederate General Robert E. Lee. It's spelled differently, has no connection whatsoever, but, they are giving serious consideration to making a change. I did check this one out. ESPN has confirmed that one of their play by play announcer who is Asian and named Robert Lee has been pulled from covering a particular sporting event in the South. Their statement said they regretted it had come to this. Folks, this is no longer a slippery slope, what we have is an avalanche of madness. Now I move on to the newest edition of lunacy on steroids. One writer has now introduced the fact that it's time for folks to add The Alamo to the list of symbols that offend some people. One prominent hall of fame black athlete now in his mid-fifties declared his own take on this nonsense. He said he grew up black, he grew up in a black neighborhood, he went to black schools, and he has always been black. However, he added that not once in his entire life had he ever heard about any statue of any kind ever being a problem. I do hope we all can see clearly the bottom line here: WEDGE ISSUE. Politics. Period. See? You had thought that I wasn't paying attention to this stuff. Right? Now you know. I was and am. And, you also now know what I think about it.

We are still dealing with the loss of mom and dad. I was watching, of all things, the sitcom, "Last Man Standing", where the main character's dad had brought a lady friend over to meet the family. That made for a huge problem even though it had been five years since the mom had died. One little comment in that show hit me like a ton of bricks. In explaining his issues, the son told his dad that he couldn't help himself because every time his dad came through the door he expected to see his mom with him. That hit a nerve with me. I find myself so many times thinking I will hear their voices again, see them again, have them call me on the phone, and it only took one little comment to get me going again. We all deal with issues in our own way. Most of the time I am very calm, cool, and collected, because of my great thankfulness for the joy we shared together for such a wonderful long run. But, yours truly, does have his moments. And, that was one of them. It kind of slipped up on me and even surprised me just a tad. So, there you have it, I just might not be so strong after all. That reminds me, "The joy of the Lord is my strength." (Nehemiah 8:10) Amen.

You just never know what might be served up here at the ole blogger ranch. I think of it like a smorgasbord, without the salad guard. You can take in what you like and leave the other on the table. I have folks that I know, some of them in my own family, who see the political world totally opposite to the way I see it. I do not doubt their sincerity. And, I am glad we live in a land where we can disagree, hopefully, agreeably. At the same time, them being true believers does not alter my way of weighing the facts as I see them. Because of that, often you get my take because it's my blog, my viewpoints, and my little corner of the electronic blogging universe. There may well come a time when those who provide this utility will change the rules and folks like me will not be able to use their facility to express ourselves. I am not of the doomsayer mindset, but, something like that happening would not surprise me at all. I might add something for us all to consider. There are institutions that are well respected in the mainstream world and one of their main functions is to define those in our nation they determine to be a hate group. Their current list of hate designees includes a number of Christ centered ministries. Those ministries have published their guiding principles that reflect what they believe to be God's viewpoints. God's viewpoints are unwelcome by the mainstream world. That, my friend, is something we all should pay attention to, and I'll leave you to connect how it does, in fact, relate to the statue issue. Think. Pray. And, may God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

"Four fruit flies flew through three fields Thirsty for free flower meals Three flies fought over where to fly One swished away to a Swiss fish fry" ~ Children's tongue twisting song written by Bryant Oden

Good morning and welcome, it is Wednesday, August 23, 2017. I do hope all of my readers were able to work through the total eclipse event without any lingering side effects. In the email containing Monday's blog, sent to 40 recipients, it included this title, "For some people, today will be a total eclipse of their smart." I received an inquiry about that title. It was intended to be a play on the title of that immensely popular song back in 1983, by Bonnie Tyler, "Total Eclipse of the Heart." My eldest son recognized it as such and wanted to know how in the world I would have known about that song. I told him there used to be something called Top 40 Radio and I typically would catch whatever the most popular tunes were. That was 34 years ago. I read where the now 66-year-old Bonnie Tyler sang her big hit during the totality phase of the eclipse this past Monday. I have most likely now eclipsed my record for how much space I have devoted to the subject of eclipses. I sure hope that doesn't cast any shadow on my credibility or blot out the good standing I've attempted to earn over time. Just kidding. Still messing around with eclipse related metaphors. That's all. Nothing more than that. No secret code. Just your friendly blogger having himself a bit of fun.

My little 2MG tablet once a day is really helping to lower my fasted blood glucose readings. (Amazingly, I read where the maximum dosage for it is 10MG, twice a day.) This very morning I hit below 100 for the first time in I don't know when. To me, that too is pretty amazing. That makes me thankful to God for those who get the education, do the research, and use their skills to develop drugs that help people, like me. Then we have this development. I've taken the same cholesterol medication for many years. But, as they used to say back home, all good things come to an end and for that particular drug, this is the end, my friend. With literally no noticeable side effects for many years, without warning I began to develop severe muscle cramps. A blood test revealed a muscle related issue. I stopped the cholesterol medication for two weeks, got a new blood test, and everything is back to normal, and I no longer have the muscle cramping. But, yes, but, there's always one of those, right? But, my doctor advises that now would be a good time for me to do my best to keep my cholesterol in check through my diet. He does love using that "D" word. Here I am, fighting diabetes and that little pill he added is helping but it has also helped me to add a few pounds. This is a common outcome because when your blood sugar drops you tend to snack. When you snack, things happen. I think you get my drift. The weight gain would not be good for my cholesterol. My point? Oh, what a vicious vortex I am caught up in! Not really. These and so many other little life threatening details are what make up my day to day living. The good news is that I'm still here to talk about it and to report to one and all that God is still on His throne and He is in control. Amen.

We are regular watchers of the TV series, American Ninja Warrior. If we are home and it is on, we watch it. We even watch re-runs of previous seasons if they are on. Seeing people deal with and overcome those physical challenges and serious obstacles provides a boost in our 'feel good'. Sometimes a promising young talent messes up and it makes me not only feel sorry for them, but, maybe even a little disappointed. Disappointed? I'm disappointed? Even as I am fully stretched out in my recliner watching someone who has trained relentlessly and yet I have a feeling of disappointment? We are quite strange, don't you think? If he had only used that reverse hand technique. If she had only slowed down a little. It's not really so hard to coach from the recliner. Let me see? They work full time jobs and then stay in the gym half the night training. That's the difference between a participant and a spectator. Often we find ourselves in just about every walk of life sitting in the bleachers doing commentary when we should be out there on the field of play, from work to worship. That even sounded a little harsh to me, like a slap in the face, but, in a good way because it reminds me of who needs to hear it. Yep. You guessed it the first time. Those three again. Me. Myself. And, I. Think on that for a while. Take care. Enjoy the life God has given to you as best you can. Be thankful. See you next time. Amen. .....More later.

Now that's what I call a good day!

Good morning and welcome. Today is Tuesday, August 22, 2017, and I'm still doing that crawfish thing. You know the one I am talking about. That's where I go forward by going backwards. Paw Paw Mac used to say crawfish don't care as much about where he might be going but he mostly wants to see where he has been. At any rate, I'm thinking about the special day I had last Saturday. It was the day designated to celebrate my birthday. I started off that day with a great homemade breakfast from the wife. Homemade biscuits, grits, my egg cooked perfectly, over easy, bacon, and some over-the-top delicious fig preserves canned by the wife's sister. After breakfast, I decided to go to the mall to walk. It was still early so the only people there were the walkers and a few very early merchandisers. I noticed when I walked by that in one of the fast food joints there was a large number of boxes waiting to be unpacked. As I passed by, I also took note of a dozen folks waiting in line for the super duper hair cutting place to open. There were some hairdressers already in the shop. It appeared their number one priority was to walk around like they had no idea a bunch of people were waiting outside. The workers were all wearing their black uniforms with their hair all teased up, and they looked like they were prancing a little. I saw a couple of older deaf people walking while talking to each other in sign language. After finishing two laps, I did something I only do in an emergency. (You know. In the case of an emergency, break this glass.) I was ready for another cup of coffee. (I had only had four cups of Community Colombian blend before leaving the house.) I, in a rather halting manner, walked into that place that puts the little holder on the cup and supposedly that little holder makes it coffee. The lady at the counter had a smile that was so bright it made me blink. I asked if she had any bold brew. She thought I said gold. She was puzzled. (It's the beard.) I clarified my request. "I would like some very strong coffee, please." She turned up the brightness of her teeth a notch and told me she had just finished brewing their espresso blend. I paid $2.00 for a small cup, found me a place to sit, and sipped my brew. It wasn't Community but it did have a bite and I actually, for the most part, enjoyed it. There. I said it. That one time. Please don't tell anyone I was seen in that place. Thanks.

Great Grand Gabi!

After running a few errands, I returned to the house and found the wife totally immersed in her cooking program. She was preparing a meal for us to celebrate my birthday with family. What a menu! She made pot roast, (consisting of two large roasts), mashed potatoes and gavy, fresh field peas, fried okra, homemade cornbread, and fresh sliced tomatoes. Some fourteen of us circled this veritable feast and after a prayer of thanksgiving to God, we attacked. I broke open a new jar of home canned pepper sauce and spooned out a generous portion onto the cornbread that I had piled up with peas and okra. It had a kick. (The two jars of pepper sauce were actually sent from Louisiana for our youngest son Rodney. Rodney couldn't be there so I thought it best to sample it on his behalf.)  He will like it because they made it hotter than the regular stuff they can. The wife outdid herself. (My mom used to ask me after we had enjoyed a huge family meal if it was the best ever.) She obviously paid attention to my pattern of food-related bragging. Here's one thing that made the wife feel ever so very good. She had prepared enough food for a logging camp and there were very few leftovers. Very few. They were scarce. How scarce were they? Scarce as hen's teeth. I had a wonderful birthday meal. We had a beautiful family gathering. MiMi and Poppy got to share forth and back holding of our newest great grand, Gabi. A good time was had by all and especially the birthday honoree. Thanks to my wife who put in the time and effort to make all of this happen. I am blessed. Amen.

I feel like Grandpaw Jones off of the old 'Hee Haw' series who used to give his upcoming menu and afterward the affirmation would come wafting through the air, 'Yum! Yum!' Now that I have the anniversary of my 71st year accounted for and in the rear view mirror, it is time to get on with the rest of my life, beginning with today. Yep. One day at a time. Hopefully, each one with some type of target of making it count in my influence on others and in honoring the God who gave me life, and more importantly, gave me eternal life in His presence. At our Thursday evening prayer and Bible study gathering, during our song time, one of the ladies called out the song, "That Glad Reunion Day". Many there didn't know that song. She did. We did. And, I think everyone enjoyed learning it. Enjoy the rest of your day and find something to thank God for. Until next time, may God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

"That Glad Reunion Day" - Iris Dement

Verse 1

There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know,
When we see the many loved ones we've known here below;
Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow,
That will be a glad reunion day.

Chorus

Glad (That will be a happy day) day, Yes, a wonderful day,
Glad (That will be a happy day) day, Yes, a glorious day,
There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay,
That will be a glad reunion day.

Verse 2

There within the holy city we'll sing and rejoice,
Praising Christ the blessed Savior with heart and with voice;
Tell Him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice,
That will be a glad reunion day.
Repeat Chorus

Verse 3

When we live a million years in that wonderful place,
Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face,
It will seem but just  a moment of praising His grace,
That will be a glad reunion day.

Repeat Chorus

"Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make makes you." ~ John C. Maxwell

I know what some of you might be thinking. One of these days you think you are going to tune in only to find that the blogger guy at the ole blogger ranch has run out of any more to say. While some would say that happened a long time ago but I never stopped writing, I must interject that while running out of something to say is a distinct possibility, it doesn't happen to be on this day, Monday, August 21, 2017. I suppose we wake up to some serious choices for the day ahead of us. No. I am not talking about Washington, DC. Sadly, that train left the station a long time ago. I'm thinking about the solar eclipse that will be seen today. It has been widely reported with very dire warnings concerning the potential for doing eye damage if it is viewed without appropriate eye protection. Then, we have all the doomsayers grabbing hold of this event to peddle their version of the end of the world. You have to wonder what children are thinking about all of this. It's not as if they are not already living in some pretty weird times. Don't get me wrong. I do believe everyone should prepare themselves for that day when they will meet God, however, I have no use at all for these charlatans that use something like the eclipse to promulgate their whacked out claims. The bottom line, be careful. I think you'll be okay if you choose from what is behind the following three doors: 1) Don't watch at all. 2) Use a minimum of 14 rated welding goggles to glance only. 3) Drink another cup of Community. Thanks. I choose the prize behind door number 3.

We had a great time of singing and Bible study in our home last Thursday. It was our first meeting. We had 16 regulars, plus, 3 visitors and a beautiful baby boy. Six more called in with late last minute cancellations due to circumstances that came up. I get emotional just thinking about the love and fellowship that permeated our time together. I give a shout out to our Jimmy Sr. and Jimmy Jr. for their willingness to plan out the parking for our guests. Oh, how the rafters rang as we joined our voices in praise to our Great God! We prayed for those near and dear to each heart. Then, we opened up God's Book and allowed Him to speak as we shared from the 139th Division of the Psalms where we were reminded of our unfathomable infinite God who intimately cares for His own.Thanks to the wife for getting everything ready and for the refreshments she had for all to enjoy. It was a little crowded on a super hot Thursday evening. (It's August in our part of the world. Right?) We plan to join together again this week and I am already looking forward to it. Think about it. You really can't go wrong when you join your hearts and voices together with songs like: "Victory in Jesus" ~ "Glad Reunion Day" "Jesus is Coming Soon" ~ "What a Friend we have in Jesus" ~  "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow" ~ and "The Family of God".

I owe Facebook an apology. I've been boasting about how Facebook doesn't really know my location and how proud I am of that. Here's a sampling of what I see every morning: "Good morning, Al! It'll be hot today in Ventura. The forecast shows a high of 95°F." I assumed it thought I was in Ventura, California, however, after doing some checking, I discovered it is actually the name of a small community less than two miles down the road from where our Company is located. I do hate it when I miss something like that. My little story did fit my narrative so well. You know. I was happy to be messing with the mental genius, Facebook's founder, Mark Zuckerberg, only to find out he was messing with me. Yes. I will get over it. It's stuff like this that really makes my day challenging. Not really. I do hope you folks out there in the just-down-the-road Texas community of Ventura have yourself a mighty fine day out there in your 95°F weather with a heat index of triple digits. As for as Ventura, California, I guess I need to apologize to them as well. Maybe I will. Okay. I'll think about it. Does anyone have one of those shells where you can hear the ocean? I need a little inspiration. I hope you take all of this with less than a grain of salt. (For the technically inclined, a grain of salt, on average, is 0.0393701 inches.) See you next time, and in the meantime, may the Good Lord up above smile on us all. Amen. ...More later.

"As a child my family’s menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it." ~ Buddy Hackett, Comedian, (1924-2003)

I'm practicing some exhaling exercises this morning. Not really, but, given the heat index and the fact that I've been out in it often this week, well, I'm either out of shape, (likely), or the heat is more than an ordinary person can take. Let me correct that, it could be more than a person can take, because, I may be a lot of things, but, I do not believe I have ever been called ordinary. And, by the way, all of this is happening on this wonderful Friday, August 18, 2017. People often tell me I certainly don't act my age, (meaning I'm still pretty spry for an older fellow), and this week has helped me to conclude that acting is a good way to say it. I'm acting like I'm younger but I'm not necessarily feeling younger. (Why in the name of all that is good do I tell them no thank you when they offer to help me? I must be off my rocker.) Don't get nervous because I'm not planning on making today's episode another walk through where I attempt to share all of my geriatric aches and pains. I will admit that sounds pretty interesting, however, I mentioned it today only because age and heat index are not good bed fellows. I thought some of you might want to know that. Now you do. I report. You decide, or maybe, just get another cup of coffee. I think I will do the same. (I'll save all the details for the next time I'm sitting in the waiting room where we will be swapping our medical and surgical stories.I don't have any really good scars to show but it still should be good.)

It may be a little dark but it's very comforting in an odd sort of way.

Hey, when you get to be my age you have to be able to look forward to something. And, just to be clear, the new diabetic medication I'm taking may have some impact on me being a little wobbly out in the heat. I'm not sure full disclosure required that, but, I thought it best to include it in my report. Thanks. One of the things coming out of our current civil war in the making which passes itself off as the political landscape we find ourselves in, is how that it makes me just want to listen to old time radio shows on my satellite radio instead of any news. I'm not off the grid completely. I still get all the stuff happening in real time on my Twitter feed, but, as far as making a conscious choice to hear in-depth stuff, well, I've pretty much put that on the back burner. I know. That's not like me. However, these times are setting emergency alarms off all around and the outcome measures somewhere between distressing and depressing. Were it not for God's promises, I'm not sure how we could face another day. Yet, His promises are sure and certain, therefore, we can keep on keeping on. That's a fact, Jill. I know. It doesn't rhyme, however, it's my tip of the hat to my cultural sensitive side. Aren't you proud of me? Maybe a participation trophy would be appropriate, if nothing else. What do you think?

Our Alex.

I showed a photo yesterday of our grandson Brady Boy. He is eleven. Our grandson Alexander Benjamin is four months older than Brady. Alex called me Wednesday night to wish me a happy birthday. That's the first time he's done that. (He may have been told to do it, but, it was still a blessing to me.) He said he was worn out from his first day back to school. I told him that I was praying for him that he might have a very good year in school. He thanked me for that. My oh my, how time is getting away from us and it's obvious when I look at these two boys. Our grandchildren and great grandchildren help define our legacy. We thank God for them all. Another week has come and gone and now it's time for us all to take a break and enjoy our upcoming Saturday. We are also already anticipating going to the meeting place where God's people gather on Lord's Day Sunday. I've enjoyed our visits this week and I do thank you for hanging in there with me. Take care. Enjoy. May God bless us all. Amen. ....More later.

Spunk and Enthusiasm. Not a bad combination, if you ask me. Not bad even if you don't ask me.

Our Brady boy!

Good morning. Just for the record, we will be officially celebrating my birthday this upcoming Saturday with the family. I don't think anything is planned to recognize the 40th anniversary of that iconic Elvis guy who chose my birthday to check out. Today is Thursday, August 17, 2017, and we are doing our best to keep at it. Speaking of family, I chit chatted with our grandson Brady the other day. He is getting ready for 6th grade this week. He is also back in football. We had ourselves a somewhat politically incorrect forth and back about football. I said, "Well, son, I know you are a hard hitter. Have you left anyone laying out on the field yet?" He nonchalantly shot back, "No Sir, not yet, but I plan to do so, soon." For those who follow my blog who like to see everyone play nice even on the football field, well, consider this: Brady is very clear on the fact that it is a contact sport. And, he intends to fulfill his part of that bargain. While I do pray for his safety, I, at the same time, greatly admire his spunk and enthusiasm. Those two attributes are good ones for any of us to have as we deal with the life we have been given.

They tell us the moment you speak of having humility is the moment you lose it. Well, I'm going to say something any way. I am humbled by the many well wishes, comments, and other forms of greeting that were expressed yesterday in recognition of my 71st birthday. Many, way too many, were way too kind. My eldest son said I should feel honored. However, while I do appreciate these wonderful thoughts, I live with the fellow being talked about, 24x7. The reality is this. I'm just as convicted about my life when the preacher shares God's word as the next fellow. Maybe even more so. I'm still working through some pretty profound thoughts from a sermon I heard last Sunday. Here was a take away that I have thought a lot about this week, "If you do not have a plan for how you will spend your time, every bit of it, there is someone who does have a plan. That someone is Satan and anytime we fail to have a plan in the use our time, he will fill any void." The sermon was about finishing well with the example of the Apostle Paul's testimony, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course." (2 Timothy 4:7) Therefore, I received all those wonderful comments, many of them quite laudatory in nature, within the context of knowing I need to do more, work harder, and be more conscious of my time so that I can finish well, for the honor and glory of the Lord. But, thanks for the birthday wishes. I will always cherish the love shown towards me.

At any rate, we move on. This means that today is the next day of my 71st year in my sojourn here on this sphere called earth. One lady pointed out to me that having achieved that status meant I was one year past the three score and ten promised in the Scriptures. That comes from the 90th division of the Psalms, Verse 10, in a prayer song attributed to Moses. Since I mentioned that waxing poetic situation yesterday, I thought I would share that particular passage as a way of saying thanks for all the birthday wishes, and, let's all pray for each other that we would find ourselves faithful and focused on finishing well. Amen. ....More later. 

Psalm 90

A prayer of Moses, the man of God.

1) O Lord, you have been our protector through all generations!

2) Even before the mountains came into existence,
or you brought the world into being,
you were the eternal God.

3) You make mankind return to the dust,
and say, “Return, O people!”

4) Yes, in your eyes a thousand years
are like yesterday that quickly passes,
or like one of the divisions of the nighttime.

5) You bring their lives to an end and they “fall asleep.”
In the morning they are like the grass that sprouts up;

6) in the morning it glistens and sprouts up;
at evening time it withers and dries up.

7) Yes, we are consumed by your anger;
we are terrified by your wrath.

8) You are aware of our sins;
you even know about our hidden sins.

9) Yes, throughout all our days we experience your raging fury;
the years of our lives pass quickly, like a sigh.

10) The days of our lives add up to seventy years,
or eighty, if one is especially strong.
But even one’s best years are marred by trouble and oppression.
Yes, they pass quickly and we fly away.

11) Who can really fathom the intensity of your anger?
Your raging fury causes people to fear you.

12) So teach us to consider our mortality,
so that we might live wisely.

13) Turn back toward us, O Lord!
How long must this suffering last?
Have pity on your servants!

14) Satisfy us in the morning with your loyal love!
Then we will shout for joy and be happy all our days!

15) Make us happy in proportion to the days you have afflicted us,
in proportion to the years we have experienced trouble!

16) May your servants see your work!
May their sons see your majesty!

17) May our sovereign God extend his favor to us!
Make our endeavors successful!
Yes, make them successful!

New English Translation (NET)

On this day, I am reminded once again of God's mercy, grace, and provision in my life. Amen.

Good morning and welcome to this particular Wednesday, August 16, 2017. This is the day that I pause to thank the good Lord above for His providence and His provision throughout my three score and ten years plus one.  That’s right. I am blessed, as of today, to have been breathing the air here on the planet for these seventy-one years.  There are way too many blessings to even begin to mention by name, but, I will summarize my journey thus far in this way: Faith, Family, and Friends. Faith: Simply put, God. He has been good to me. Family: I have a wonderful immediate and extended family. Friends: I have a host of those who have blessed me with their support and friendship. I’ve learned some things during my time. Some of it came the hard way. Being somewhat reflective, I share this quote from the late, celebrated American poet, Robert Frost, “The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected.” I do thank God for His blessings. Amen. (The photo collage depicts myself and Marilyn as kids. Believe it or not, just 10 or so years from that photo, we were dating. The rest, as they say, is history. She reflects God’s best in my life for over 55 years.)

Since I ushered myself into a reflective mood, I suppose I should say something that would be an attempt to utter a profound assessment of this life that God has given to me. I looked up some famous words spoken by famous people in their conclusions about the meaning of life. Some of them sounded pretty good but they were not what I was looking for. I then thought about the Source of Truth given to us by God Himself. And, this is the passage that jumped into my mind. It is from the inspired journal kept by Solomon and it is his conclusion having devoted himself to pretty much every pursuit known to humanity.  "When all has been heard, the end of the matter is: fear God [worship Him with awe-filled reverence, knowing that He is almighty God] and keep His commandments, for this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, every hidden and secret thing, whether it is good or evil." (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, from the Amplified Bible.) He's still working on me and I am too. It is a full-time occupation. No retirement. Amen.

I most likely could have come up with some flowery sounding words but never would I or anyone else be able to have the impact that comes when we share God's Holy Word. He speaks through His Word by the power of His Spirit who is able to communicate truth to the human heart. Here's a tidbit from the ProEdit website: "So 860.3 million words certainly sounds like a lot. However, getting our heads around that number requires some perspective. Here goes: In one lifetime, the average person speaks the equivalent of the entire text of the complete 20-volume Oxford English Dictionary (OED) more than 14.5 times." I know what some of you are thinking. You think I am way ahead of that schedule. You are probably right. Please humor me a tad, because it is, after all, my birthday. I may not show it all the time, but to me, I surely should have an attitude of gratitude because God has been there with me throughout my lifetime. Like I said, I may not show it all the time. I may not even feel it all the time, but, the good news is how that doesn't change the reality of His provision and presence. I close with that thought, I am thankful. Amen. ....More later..

"Sweat is the cologne of accomplishment." ~ Heywood Hale Brown

Here we go again and this time we do so on Tuesday, August 15, 2017. As we have sifted through the paperwork associated with mom and dad, we've been reminded of things we may not have fully understood. Mom and dad were effective and productive in the jobs they held. Exceptionally so. Both of them. They never came off as bragging on themselves as high achievers and they never talked much about how often they had been recognized for their performance, however, they both, during their times of employment, were given numerous awards and letters of commendation. In our time spent reviewing the correspondence and paperwork of their lives, we have seen stacks of these recognitions. I knew that mom had been given special commendation at different times but the sheer number of them in one of the manila folders was still surprising. Many of dad's awards, especially as a military non-commissioned officer, have been framed and they are very impressive. Yet, there's even more that were never put into that type of presentation. Letters from his commanding officers. Letters recognizing him going above and beyond. As we consider these forms of recognition, they are inspirational to us and it reaffirms our thankfulness to God for giving us the opportunity to have these two remarkable people as our parents. Amen.

One of the things these documents spoke to me reflects on their unapologetic work ethic. They gave themselves to whatever work they were involved in. That's one of the elusive traits that employers bemoan today. Employees who lack a solid work ethic. Mom and dad had that all over them. I do know many of their direct descendants also carry that attribute with pride. Today when you talk about being committed to the job you have, the current views that swirl around responds with things like a slave, workaholic, and no real life. Really? I can tell you one thing. Our parents were committed to their jobs and they had REAL LIVES. Lives that made a difference, by the way. At mom's and dad's house there is a coo coo clock hanging on the wall. Someone mentioned that it was given to them by a lady we all knew growing up. I then told the others there with me how that mom and dad saw after this lady, carried her to her doctor appointments, and mom sent food, up and until she passed away. That didn't get recognized on a piece of paper. But, I can assure you, it reflects their story. What was a consistent part of their story? Their resolve and commitment to whatever task they put their hand to. At the job site or in hauling an ailing widow woman to her doctors 100 miles away. Amen.

You can tell that I'm just back from being at the homestead over in Louisiana. Some wonder about me not really caring that much about the stuff mom and dad accumulated. I already have a chest full of that stuff. You know. The one that contains my heart. Okay. For you purists, I know it's not the pump that does its thing 24x7. It was a metaphoric statement. Heart. I believe the Bible portrays the heart as being the seat or place of origin of our thoughts and emotions. The 1611 King James translation put Proverbs 4:23 in this way, "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." At any rate, my heart, in that context, is fully satisfied and saturated with my respect and remembrance of mom and dad. Waxing poetic today? Sorry. I'm not into waxing. I've seen that video of them doing that on the fellow's chest hair. Way too painful for me. Thanks for showing up today. It's good to be able to work through these issues with you being here to help me out. And, it does save on my psychiatric fees. See you next time and may God bless us, one and all. Amen. ....More later.

The past, the present, the future. God knows. The good, the bad, the ugly. God knows. Our pain, challenges, and sorrows. God knows. And, best of all, HE CARES! Read all about it in the 139th Division of the Psalms.

Yep. I did make it back and I am thankful to be able to bring you greetings from my back-to-work workstation here on this Monday, August 14, 2017. I've shared my grandfather's saying before that he used when he felt maybe a little worse for wear, "I feel like I've been dragged through a rat hole backwards." While I couldn't find anything concerning the origin of that little saying, that doesn't mean that it hasn't been used as slang in the past. It is used in at least one song and in a number of books. When I Googled it, my blog came up twice as a reference. Those were several years ago, therefore, I think it is okay to use it today. No. I do not have an illustration for that one. At any rate, we are able to get up and go and for that I am thankful. Having seen that ability lost to a number of individuals close to us over the past several years, I can assure you, I do not take it for granted. Sometimes as I drive down the country road leading up to my workplace I just have to blurt out to the Lord how grateful I am that He has provided me the strength to do what I am doing. I am reminded of Job's response from Chapter 12 of the Book that bears his name: "Who among all these does not know That the hand of the LORD has done this, In whose hand is the life of every living thing, And the breath of all mankind?" (Verse 9-10, NASB) Amen.

I read where the sale of underground bunkers is spiking out in California. Supposedly, this is directly connected to the North Korean threat of launching a nuclear attack against certain locations in the United States. I found a company out there that sells these survival shelters. That photo is from their advertising website. They have 14 models with an entry level price of $9,999.00. They say their shelters are buried at least 10 feet deep and can be installed in 3 to 5 days. Wow! Who knew? They also claim to be the only manufacturer to have actually tested their units. I have no idea how they did that. The design is essentially a huge corrugated thick pipe with life support systems installed. My guess is these units will do a much better job than our drills at school when I was a kid. That's where we all got under our desks, as best we could. I grew up. I saw the photos from Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I don't think getting under a school desk would offer any protection at all. I'm not being critical of the people who purchase these units. That is their choice. At the same time, I do know, we all know, that fear sells. My choice is to trust God. Sorry, I do not have a Plan B.

I suppose some have noticed that I do typically work without a script. Some would add, without a clue as well. And, believe it or not, I'm not sure it would ever resonate much at all if I attempted to do it differently than how it more or less falls out each day. I know I have to be careful using the word fall out having just mentioned the nuclear threat. I read where the late night TV people are blaming President Trump for what North Korea is up to. Really? One of them called on President Trump to shut up before he gets us all killed. That kind of stuff may get the knee jerk expected from the people who watch them, but, I, for one, think it is time for the peace loving nations of the world to deal with a rogue regime that has enslaved its own people and constantly threatens to nuke anyone they don't like. I don't know exactly what should be done, but, this look-the-other-way strategy over the past many years hasn't really accomplished anything. Just me. Not you perhaps. Just my thought about it. I think we are still allowed to have our own opinion. Thanks for finding me on your dial today and may God protect us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

"The only steps in this house are the stairsteps and the only half in this house is the half and half creamer." ~ Al Hodson

Welcome. It's Friday, August 11, 2017. I hope everyone in our area is enjoying the fact that we are nearly in the middle of August and due to some rains of late, our grass is still green. Hello! That's not always how it works in this area even when we water as much as we can. I will be heading out to Louisiana later this morning. My brother and I will continue our work on getting everything in order in support of the settling of mom's and dad's affairs. We are making progress and we are so blessed to have the support of our huge blended family. Those who follow my daily episodes are aware that my brother is technically, my step brother. He is our recently departed dad's eldest son. When he and I call each other to discuss a particular estate related matter we never fail to visit and swap stories. Just for the enjoyment of it. Our family crew is well over 100 strong and this closeness among our blended family is something very special to us. Our desire to preserve this family bond is the agreed to foundation upon which we make our decisions regarding the duties mom and dad assigned to us. The wives are going this time. We both are glad. We do need some grunt labor. That was a joke. They both read my blog. I hope they are laughing. We do need their help. One of the main things they can do is to keep us focused on working instead of visiting. Based on prior history, I think they can do that.

Lord willing, we will begin an in-home prayer and Bible study beginning next Thursday evening. Our inaugural gathering has about 20 folks coming with the potential for more. We have wanted to do this for a long time. We have the piano tuned, the song books ready, and a seating arrangement that will accommodate our time together. And, a high priority item, the Community Coffee will be flowing. Why didn't we do this before? Well, sometimes invention is the mother of necessity and sometimes necessity is the mother of invention. At any rate, the time has come and we are so excited to start this new adventure. It has been my great privilege to stand and share God's Holy Word for nearly 50 years. I'm not bragging on myself because I learned a long time ago that true Bible teaching comes from God through the teacher. Therefore, I am praying that God will speak to us all as we seek to honor Him with the lives He has given to us. And, that He will be honored by all that we do. Maybe some of our neighbors will also come. Now that would be such a blessing! Amen.

What a week! I worked on booking some Santa events. I worked on a number of estate related matters. We worked on preparing for the upcoming new Bible study. I worked on doing my blog each day. Oh yeah, I did some work in support of the Company where I spend many of my waking hours each week. Some work. Thus far, they haven't shown up with a mirror to check my breathing to see if I am still alive, but, I'm sure on some days they wonder. Yes. I did nearly pass out in Church due to the side effects from my new diabetic medication. Believe me, that was a come to the altar, wake up call. (Continuing with the Church motif here.) Since that happened, I have been very careful to make sure I have plenty of snacks to keep my blood sugar stabilized. And, the good news, early on, is how my fasted numbers in the morning are coming down. That, folks, is great news to yours truly. Busy? Yes. Hopefully, gainfully so, in terms of being involved in things that do make a difference. And, as I often say, with a goal of making a difference for time and eternity. Until our next time together, enjoy your Saturday and Lord's Day Sunday. May God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

"For me, comedy is a day-to-day report on the human condition. It's what's happening right now. I get maybe 20 minutes of my act straight from the newspaper." ~ Comedian Elayne Boosler

You do know by now that I tend to notice things. I do. And, Facebook, actually helps me to do that very thing. Especially, over time. This is what I dredged up as a lead on this Thursday, August 10, 2017. One of the things I notice is how people post the most amazing, revolutionary, life changing, new product, service, self-help program, diet, exercise, parenting help, you name it, and that's all you hear and see for many days and weeks. But, somehow, something along the way happens and that astounding breakthrough passes off the scene, never to be heard from again. That's not the case with every individual, but, it reflects the reality of the human condition found in most of us. I include myself with a caveat. I'm not likely to be out there parading something for all to see, but, that's the beauty of social networking. One gets to share whatever it is that one chooses. And, I might add, one gets to notice what one wants to notice. I do know this. Anyone who posts a testimony of coming to know the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, well, if they meant business with God, they never have to worry about that one fading away. You have this as a certainty as Jesus Himself said: "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one." (John 10: 28-30, (KJV)

When he laughs, everyone better be laughing too!

I'm certainly not critical of folks who get all excited about something only to see it dissipate over time. Been there. Done that. Many times. If I were to give any advice at all, it might be to tone it down a little when the enthusiasm level is out of control. At the same time, they can do what they well please. I can too. Including giving some unasked for advice. Do we live in a great country or what? We do. But I am aware there's a promise out there to make us great, again. I get it. At the same time, I am very much grateful for the greatness that has remained throughout my sojourn as a citizen of this country. Think about this most recent dust up with North Korea. The regime there is at least in the running for the title of being the most repressive in the world. Their people have no freedoms. Many of the children there are slowly starving. I would hate to see it come to an armed confrontation because the people of North Korea would end up suffering the most. However, at the same time, there's only so much provocation that any freedom loving nation can take. I mention this in the context of being thankful for the nation God allowed us to be a part of. We are blessed. Yes. Despite our troubles, our internal conflicts and struggles, we are blessed. And, I humbly thank God above for His provision for the United States of America. Amen.

Let me see if I am making any progress here. I pointed out some of our common human frailties. Check. I included myself by association. Check. I talked about the freedoms we enjoy, including those regarding how we represent ourselves to others. Check. I shared the eternality of what it means to become a child of the living God. Check. I shared my heart concerning the contrast between the freedoms we enjoy versus life under totalitarianism. Check. I gave God the credit for all that we enjoy here in this land. Check. That seems to be some reasonable thoughts for us all to consider as we continue our day, here in the land of the free, and the home of the brave. Oh yeah. I also did a little unapologetic flag waving even though, that, sadly, is becoming very frowned upon in the so called enlightened circles of the elite. Their attitude towards it will not cause me to stop. I love my country. Period. End of story. Thanks for getting on board and riding along with me today. I'm also wondering if and when we will pass go and collect our $200. May God bless each one. And, may He continue to bless the USA! Amen. ....More later.

Welcome to Pet Peeve Wednesday

People Who Never Shut Up and Talk Over You Constantly, take a breath already ~ People Who Are Always Interrupting ~ Animal Cruelty ~ Unflushed/Messy Public Toilets ~ When People Copy a Really Good Idea of Yours and Get Credit for It ~ People Who Don't Know About Personal Space ~ Rude People ~ Parents Letting Their Toddlers Scream and Scream and Scream and Ignoring Them ~ People Who Don't Cover Their Cough/sneeze ~ Chewing with your mouth open ~ Someone Who Always Finds Something to Complain About ~ People Who Won't Respect Your Opinion Just Because It Doesn't Match Theirs ~ People Who Think Their Overly Annoying Children Are the Cutest Little Angels ~ Driving too slow in the fast lane ~ Cutting in line ~ When Someone Tells You They Will Take Care of It and Doesn't Follow Through ~ Really Bad Body Odor ~ Stopping in the middle of a crowded hallway ~ Parking a car across two spaces ~ Talking during the movie ~ Talking With Mouth Full ~ People Acting Like There Hurt or Sad Just to Get Attention. ~Welcome to pet peeve Wednesday, August 9, 2017. Those were the top ones listed by the Ranker website. If you can't find one on that list, you probably can make your own. Ranker claims to have the definitive ranking on just about everything imaginable. (It really agitates me when they make claims like that.)

They had plenty of others on their compiled list. I think we all know there are two sides to this coin. The one where we are annoyed and the one we might not think as much about, the one where we are the one doing the annoying. Thanks. I needed that whether anyone else did or not. What's most interesting to me is how I find myself getting steamed over something and within a short period of time I get hit up side the head because I find myself doing the exact same thing. Oh, but it is different when I did it. I had my reasons. See what I mean? Where's a police officer when you really need one? If I knew the number I'd call a tow truck and have that car towed. The nerve of some people. Yep. HOWEVER, when the shoe is on the other foot, we, don't exactly see it the same way. I was in a huge hurry. I have a deadline to meet. It was only going to be for a minute or less. Blah, Blah, Blah. Here's a legitimate peeve I can share. I'm trying to adjust to my new added diabetic medicine, therefore, I brought a one each Little Debbie Swiss Roll, just in case. I then said to myself, Self, you should probably check out the little cake to make sure it will work. I opened the little plastic and all the icing, (translated: the good stuff), was glued to the plastic leaving only a shrunk up miniature piece left. That's what heat and humidity do. And, that just burns me up. However, it may be a good thing since I only ate a half and as it turned out, it was only a facsimile of its former self. 

Swiss Roll Disaster: Portrait of a 'Bad Day'

Please don't send me a list of those above that you think I am guilty of.  Please. Those kinds of things really hack me off. Just kidding. I think I've beat myself up enough for one day. And, consider the trauma I suffered in that little cake incident. That's enough to ruin any one's day. Don't think for a moment that I am unaware of what some of you are doing as you read my sad story. That's right. I know. You are doing that thing with your finger on your thumb playing the world's smallest record player with a version of, "My Heart Cries for You." No. I am not claiming to be clairvoyant. I finally found something to be proud of this morning. I actually spelled clairvoyant correctly. I prefer not to see the spell checker acting like Redd Foxx on 'Sandford and Son' when he was having one of his purported custom made heart attacks. "Elizabeth, honey, I'm coming to see you." I don't mind the spell checker pointing out my mistakes. I just do not care for the snickering. Another thing I am thankful for today is that God knows all about everything that we have to do with. We don't pray to inform Him of anything, we pray because He has invited us to come directly into His throne room based on the finished work of His Son, our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Now that is something that will make us all feel better as we face this day. Amen.   .....More later.