“The weather is nature's disruptor of human plans and busybodies. Of all the things on earth, nature's disruption is what we know we can depend on, as it is essentially uncontrolled by men.” ― Criss Jami, Author

Hello once again and welcome. It's Thursday, the last day of May, the 31st, 2018. This early heatwave has contributed to some very unstable weather events in and around Texas. I have a fellow who worked for me at the big company in the early 1970's. His name is Rick and he now owns an insurance agency in San Saba, Texas. That town is a couple of hours northwest of Austin. He and I are friends on Facebook. Being an insurance agent, he received quite a few photos the other day after a sudden thunderstorm with high winds and hail hit the nearby town of Richland Springs. It happened last Saturday, May 26. (The photo above was one of those sent to him.) The fellow who sent that photo had this message with it, "Everything metal looks like this after 25 minutes of hail. All roofs in town are toast. All windows and windshields are smashed. What a sight!" Another posted this message, "We had 25 minutes of hail, 95 mph winds, 1-1/2 inches of rain. Rain was a blessing. The others were not. Volunteers are everywhere. People are wonderful. No one hurt that we know of. We will survive." Sounds like there will be a whole lot of insurance claims. When I knew Ricky he was an early 20 something, single, and very fun to work with. Someone would have had to work at it not to like Ricky. He is now a grandpa who likes to spend a lot of time on the golf course. He and I agree that our time together 'back in the day' were some of the most enjoyable of our working careers.

It was Memorial Day. There was a championship softball playoff being played in Fresno, California. Before one of the games started, the crowd stood up only to hear the public address announcer say they were not going to do the national anthem since it had already been played before a previous game. It was Memorial Day. The crowd started booing then that gave way to some quiet singing which spread throughout the crowd. They didn't need someone to lead them, they sang the anthem themselves without musical accompaniment. No one told them to do it. But, they were determined to show honor to the fallen and to the country they love. At 3 p.m., on Memorial Day, I was watching the Astros play the Yankees in Yankee Stadium. They announced a brief pause for everyone to stand and observe a moment of silence to honor those who have paid the ultimate price while serving in our military. The moment of silence ended. It was very moving, but, then, a chant began and it got louder and louder. There were 50,000 people in attendance and most everyone was chanting USA --- USA ---- USA! I don't know about you but those kinds of things make me proud to be a citizen of the United States of America. That video of the people singing the anthem was shot on someone's cell phone and it has now been seen by some 1.7 million on YouTube. I ask you one more time, is this a great country, or what?

The reboot of the TV program 'Roseanne' has been canceled to the dismay of many who liked it. The star, Roseanne Barr, was canned for tweeting out a racially charged joke about a former Obama aide. The TV Network, ABC, acted immediately. Guess who is blamed for this situation? According to the maligned Obama aide, the blame lies directly at the feet of President Trump. That should not surprise anyone. It is a part of the narrative they must all pledge to honor or they will no longer be allowed into their private club, the elite leftist society. Anyone within their circle who deviates in any way from the groupthink mentality of their talking points is immediately ostracized. I'm not saying it doesn't work that way in the conservative world, but, to me, it's at least not so blatantly obvious. President Bill Clinton's daughter, Chelsea, recently trashed President Trump while on a foreign visit. She spoke to how President Trump had degraded the office itself. Has she not read the history of her own parents? That's a great example of the polarization that exists within our country. President Trump didn't invent this divide, but, perhaps, he has furthered its recognition through his manner of speaking. Regarding the Roseanne matter, I, for one, do not care. I've never watched that program. I actually don't care to see it. I'm not sure what category that puts me in, but, I'm okay with the cancellation of any program I never cared to watch. That's how I roll. You can roll the way you choose. Or, I think we can still do that. I might need to check and get back to you on that one. Until next time, I am praying for our nation and her leaders. God is our only hope. Amen. ....More later.

“It`s not how old you are, it`s how you are old.” ― Jules Renard, French Author, (1864-1910)

Good morning. It's Wednesday, May 30, 2018, and I am here to tell you that we are smack dab in the middle of our first heat wave of this early summer. 'Feels like' of over 100 degrees each day, I just hope those who longed for summer are able to enjoy this stifling heat. The good news for us? We have a brand new, more efficient, air conditioning system. That's the plan, but, since I haven't received our first electrical bill since we installed this system, I'll have to wait and see on that promise. We have confidence in our technician and we do hope his prediction of cost savings turns out to be true. I do know we have to factor in this unexpected onset of super hot weather so early in the season. Oh well, it is how things unfold in the life and times of your blogger scribe. Your aging blogger scribe. Here is my confession for the day: I am dropping more things today than I ever have before. Literally. I spend way too much time down on the floor looking for a pill or a penny that got away from my fingers. Here's a funny development. Sometimes I drop something when I am actually focused on about making sure I don't drop something. That makes my internal heat index explode. Yes. I am aware that these types of things come with the three score and ten plus that God has granted to me. However, it can still be a source of frustration. Trust me. What's that? Shouldn't I follow my own advice in saying one might as well laugh as to cry? Thanks so much for reminding me.

We stayed in over the Memorial Day holiday. I personally enjoyed a time of rest and relaxation. I slept more than I usually do. We enjoyed a wonderful time of worship and fellowship on Sunday. On Monday, since I was off, I accompanied the wife to the ministry in the elder, special needs apartment complex. There were 15 older ladies who showed up for a time of singing, praying, and a Bible lesson. The wife, along with four or five others, have been involved in this ministry for many years. I could tell how special this time is to those ladies. There was a lot of laughing along with the sharing of burdens and challenges. I was asked to give my testimony of how I came to know the Lord. While salvation is an individual matter between a person and the Lord Himself, we all know that others influenced us as we came to a realization of our need for a Savior. For me, it was dating my girlfriend. She was a preacher's daughter. I had to attend Church services with her if I was to see her. That gave me an incentive to be in as many services as I could. Their Church had services on Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening, and Saturday evening. In a Saturday evening service in January of 1964, my girlfriend's dad was up there preaching loud and clear. I had heard it many times before, even in my own Church. But, on that night, the Lord Himself got hold of my life and when the invitation was given I couldn't stay in my pew. That was a long time ago. My girlfriend became my wife of nearly 54 years. I've not always been faithful in my walk with God but He has always been faithful to me, and, He is still working to make me what He wants me to be. That's my story and I believe it to be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. That's why I'm sticking to it. Amen.

The judge asked the man, "Why did you steal the car?" "I had to get to work." "Why didn't you take the bus?" "I don't have a license to operate the bus." ~ How do you stop two blind dudes that are beating each other up? You scream, "I'm betting on the guy with the huge knife." ~ "Hey dear, what do you say to nice long walk?" "Yeah, that sounds really good." "Great, could you pick up a few items from the corner store on your way back?" ~ "They say you can’t get a decent job without an education. But look at Albert Einstein – he was a drop-out and still ended up being the first man on the moon!" ~ "A smoothie? It's the miracle of being able to charge $5 for a peach and a banana." ~ A student at a management school came up to a pretty girl and hugged her without any warning. The surprised girl said, “What was that?” The guy smiled at her, “Direct marketing!” The girl slapped him soundly. “What was that?!” said the boy, holding his cheek. “Customer feedback.” ~ "When somebody makes you really angry, count to three. When you get to two, punch them in the face. They won’t be expecting that." ~ Those are supposed to be some new jokes. Supposed. They were lifted from a website entitled New Jokes for 2018. I can't be sure if they are very funny but the people who posted them obviously thought they were. Since I've been dropping so many things lately, I would rather withhold judgment at this time. You decide. Enjoy the rest of your Wednesday, and may God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ...More later.

I'm back, and I do think I am ready. But, I'll let you be the judge of that.

We have returned to the scene. It's Tuesday, May 29, 2018, and we are back at it, here at the ole blogger ranch. The other day I used my grandfather's assessment of what he thought of when we kids slept later than he thought we should, he said we were "All laid up like a bunch of dogs." My eldest son sent me a note about how that my father-in-law reacted to having a whole bunch of grandsons visiting in their home during the summer school break. He said this about his grandpa, "Pawpaw Rawles waded through a sea of grandsons in pallets and sleeping bags on the living room floor at about 6 a.m. "You better get up or the sun’s gonna warp you." While I have heard that story many times that's the first time I've heard that saying. And, I do like it. That's why I shared it with you today. By the time he walked through that room to rouse them he had already banged pots and pans in the kitchen trying to get their attention. Old school all the way. I readily identify with it. My grandfather was the same way. Dark and night are for sleeping. Daylight is for getting up and getting with it. It didn't matter whether it was working in the garden, mowing the yard, or leaving to go hunting. Being up and ready was not a requested action, it was a requirement. I told my son that while they all were irritated at the time, it is now a treasured memory. I wasn't there and I didn't see it, but, I love to hear them talk about it and I now have his saying to treasure also.

The mainstream media is no longer dripping with hypocrisy. They have opened up a fire hydrant and it is flooding every newscast. The independent counsel investigating the Trump campaign and his administration has been deemed untouchable, beyond reproach, and a constitutional necessity if we are to survive as a functioning representative democracy/republic. Really? Rewind the tape back to when Kenneth Starr had the same role and was investigating President Clinton. Go to YouTube or just Google the news spot videos from that sordid episode in our history. Judge Starr was known as a straight arrow with an impeccable reputation. That is until he was appointed to investigate the Clintons. These outlets demanding that Mueller is protected called Starr's work a witchhunt. They cast all manners of aspersions on his motives. They called him a pervert. And, here's something that is key. Back then, just like today, they all read from the same talking points. Mr. Mueller may be an honorable person. But, may we all just think about this for a moment. What is the difference between back then and now? Oh, I get it. It has to do with 'who' is being investigated. We no longer have a free and independent press. They are partisan. They have, in many ways, proven themselves to be untrustworthy. If Trump and his crew have done things that should be exposed and dealt with, so be it. But, one more time, if the mainstream media are who they claim to be as fair and independent arbiters of truth, then what is the difference between Mueller's investigation and the way they treated Judge Starr?

As we know, the President has a knack for creating lots of blowback from the words he uses. The other day he said MS13 gang criminals were not human, they are animals. The heinous acts of the ones he was referring to were as reprehensible and repulsive as anyone could imagine. Many on the left side of the spectrum were outraged that he had called these people animals. They began to pontificate how that all people were God's children. The House Democratic Leader even went as far as to say the people called animals had a divine spark in their being. Sadly, she doesn't have the same respect for the 54 million babies that have been aborted/killed since the 1973 Roe Versus Wade ruling by our Supreme Court. Challenged on this very issue some time ago, she, as a committed abortion rights supporter, said it was not her business to make those types of philosophical assessments. Those MS13 divine spark folks she mentioned were guilty of rape, pillage, and mayhem with no respect for their victim's ages or sex. One reason some are so strong on open borders to allow unfettered immigration is due to the fact that we've killed off so many of our offspring, therefore, we aren't producing enough children to replace our generation. To keep the system working we have to have people. I know many of you tuned me out when I began talking about political matters. That's okay. That's your choice. I'm just sharing my throwdown assessment of what I see unfolding before our very eyes. Yep. That would be correct. You don't see anything if you have your head stuck down in the sand. In case you missed it, I'm not in favor of that approach. Take care. Enjoy your day. Stay alert. And, may God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. ....More later.

Remembering and honoring those who died in active military service.

Welcome to the Friday before a three day weekend. It's the Memorial Day holiday and today is May 25, 2018. This holiday is defined to honor those who died in active military service. I've written many times about a couple of my high school buddies who went off to Vietnam and gave their lives there for a war about freedom and liberty. While the experts have dissected that war from every angle, the two fellows I'm thinking of went there for the right reason and gave up their lives as heroes. I do remember them. I remember us in class together. I remember us on the creek bank, fishing together. I remember us all being full of life and mischief. And, I remember their sacrifice. With tears. May God comfort the hearts of all those who recognize and grieve the loss of loved ones who paid the ultimate price while wearing the uniform of our country. Amen.

I've found that doctors know what they are talking about. I have actually verified their warnings. Often, the hard way. This new diabetic medication which replaced the other new diabetic medication (because of the 1% weight gain side effect), well, he told me that whatever I do I should make certain that I take the new new pill with food. He said it works differently than the one it replaced. I typically take my night medications at 8 p.m. I usually eat my supper around 5 p.m. I thought that would be close enough. I had gotten adjusted to the previous new pill that way. Well, well. Not so, grasshopper! I came in from Wednesday evening services and dutifully took my medications at my regular 8 p.m. schedule, including the new little pill. At 12:11 a.m., (Don't you love digital clocks?), I experienced the full impact of his warning. My blood sugar crashed and I felt like I was being pulled through a rat hole backward. Weebly and wobbly I got up, grabbed a handful of the candy therapy units and went to my recliner. I looked for a Coke but we didn't have any. I ate about five pieces of therapeutic sugar and began to feel my face again. That's why he is the doctor. He was right. Again. "It is very important with this medication that you take it with food." I didn't even think about thinking about waking 'you know who' because I would have had to explain my dilemma. Lesson learned.

I know. You have probably lost count by now of what reason number this one would be that you are glad that you are not me. I don't mind being an object lesson. Although, to be honest, I would have rathered it not have been quite so dramatic. I do give myself credit for knowing exactly what it was. I should have taken to heart the slogan we always shared with our ministry to inner-city kids, "Good clubbers always follow instructions." I admit it. I am a work in progress. Or, as the wife might say, a piece of work. I do hope you enjoy your holiday weekend. Think some of those who have given their lives while wearing the uniform of our country. Maybe say a prayer for those they left behind. The other evening the wife was given a jar of homemade mayhaw jelly. It had been made by a lady at our local fellowship. That immediately reminded me of one of my buddies who died in Vietnam. When we would come in from being out on the creek bank fishing all night, we would be dragging. His mom would whip up a batch of homemade cathead biscuits and serve them up with butter and mayhaw jelly. Yep. I remember. May God bless their memory and may He continue to bless the nation they died for. Amen.   ....More later.

Here's my serving up of my cornucopia of discombobulated thoughts, recollections, and ideas for today. Enjoy.

Okay. Today is Thursday, May 24, 2018, and I am going to do my best to slow down the fingers somewhat so that my daily visit will be a wee bit shorter. Just think. I used to write my episodes out by hand and then type them in. I can't remember exactly why I did them that way but I do believe going from my noggin to the keyboard is more efficient. I didn't say it produced better results but it does seem to make better use of my time. I have been thinking some about the upcoming Memorial Day holiday. We are not planning a trip but perhaps we can come up with something to do for my three-day hiatus. Sorry, but the first thing I thought of was sleep. I always think about getting extra sleep, but, at my age, when your bones become very noisy after being laid up for a few hours, well, they typically win and the best intentions don't always work out. My grandfather used to say this about us kids when we slept late: "Y'all were laid up like a bunch of dogs." I'm the only touch typist here in our shop office. Because of that, I can do different types of correspondence when needed. And, it does come in handy when I sit down to do my daily blog. I am well aware how my fingers can do the walking at times without a lot of involvement from my brain, Because of this, I try to remind myself to think. I will be the first to admit that it doesn't always show up very well, but, usually, that's not from a lack of trying. At the same time, I am appreciative for those who tune in.

I am thankful for my doctor. I may joke around about how we interact but he has done a great job of working with me to manage my diabetes. We had a real scare a few months ago when I scored an A1C of 7.2. That was the first time I had ever been out of the sixes. We added an additional medication and my number the other day was 6.3. For those who do not have diabetes, this doesn't mean a lot, but, for those of us that do, well, seeing it adjust down to that extent would be a reason for me to do my happy dance. That is if I had a happy dance. I'm not saying I never danced but the twist craze was the only one in vogue at the time I was doing any swiveling around. Being raised as a fundamental, independent, God-fearing, King James 1611 only, Baptist, well, we were told that dancing should not be something we engaged in. Back in those days, things were quite different than they are today. I don't know why I remember this situation but I do. After my dad passed away we lived for some time with my mom's parents. We had moved from Port Arthur, Texas. One day the pastor of our Church in Port Arthur stopped by to check on mom and the six of us. One problem. Mom was at home, in the house, but she was wearing shorts. That, my friend, was a cardinal sin back in the mid-1950's. I remember that she ran out the back door and hid behind the clothes hanging out on the clothesline. I'm not sure what Granny told the preacher but that's how serious things like that were, back in the day.

My mom used to tell us kids stories to help us to be reminded of what we should and should not do. She did believe in using a switch, (plum tree), to reinforce correction. Before she did the deed she told us about how that she decided one time to run away from her dad, Paw Paw Mac when he was attempting to discipline her. It was nearly dark. She ran but got tangled up in an old apple crate. He caught up with her and she got added licks for running. Her point? Don't even think about running because 'your sin will find you out.' When I talk about how we were taught to behave growing up some think we were brutalized. Really? Because we got the switch? We might have agreed with that sentiment immediately after receiving our punishment. However, we never even thought about it in that way. People disciplined their children back in those days. We were expected to behave ourselves. When we didn't we were held accountable. Most all the kids I grew up with had the same type of experience. There's no doubt that in today's enlightened world what my mom did, may, in fact, today, be called child abuse. In case you haven't noticed, look what a great job we're doing in our enlightened world. I look back at my raising, including the discipline, and I thank God for my mom doing the best she knew how to do to try and instill in us the values of right and wrong. I never even once enjoyed getting the switch. But, I am so thankful for my mom, always and forever. Amen.   ....More later.

~ Those who have true wisdom will fear the Lord, the One who alone can give true security: “Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared” ~ (Proverbs 3:23–26).

Hello out there in the bubble called the electronic superhighway, the internet, the world wide web, or, in my case, the small area containing the bits and bytes that store my blog each day. It is Wednesday, May 23, 2018, and I have been doing some thinking. I was a kid once. I also went to school like kids do today. I have been searching my memory files to try and come up with any semblance of threat I may have experienced while in school. I did have some playground encounters. Bullies have always been around and I can remember that being the case when I was a kid. But, things were different. Never, ever, can I remember a time when even the hint of a thought of danger was contemplated from someone who could shoot and kill people on school grounds. It was not part of the landscape. People everywhere are asking what has changed to bring us to where we are in today's times. I'm not implying anything about guns or gun control. I am saying that at one time in our country, schools were considered to be safe places. No one concerned themselves with preventative security. Nowadays, schools are not deemed as being safe spaces. Tragedy could happen anywhere at any time. Again, what has changed? Were we all back then just living in a wistful bubble of Mayberry-itis? I don't think so. I think we felt safe because we were safe. Our world has changed. The appreciation of the value of human life has been altered. Social media, the internet, the violent games, movies, TV, and all kinds of other technology-based saturations permeate the lives of our children, beginning at an early age. I know we have many who say this increase in knowledge and access to technology is worth whatever the price. Is it? What about the home? This saturation of images and interactive role-playing has taken the place of family connections. We've become a technologically savvy people who have lost our way. Our children are the outcome of this environment. Only a return to God and the values He has stipulated for His created human family can make a dent in what we have become today. I'm just thinking out loud, and, I do not absolve myself from being a part of how we got to where we are today. I do know this. Unless something changes I fear we will continue to see this type of fruit because of the crops we have planted. Just me. My thoughts. Feel free to have your own. May God help is my prayer. Amen.

I didn't mean to be so wordy, but, this is an issue that impacts every man, woman, boy, and girl. That impact is not only here in our country but all around the globe. This clash of cultures is real. Those of us that grew up during a different time are inclined to see things in a certain way. I recently read about the reasons Dr. James Dobson left the highly successful organization he founded, 'Focus on the Family'. His philosophical bent was different than the younger man, Jim Daly, who was chosen to run the organization. I get that. The times they have changed. The younger Daly believes that being less confrontational and more subtle is a better way to pursue bringing truth to the culture today. I get that. I am a baby boomer. Here are the identified generations since I came on the scene: Xennials; Generation Y; The Millennials; Gen Next; Gen/Gen Z; and Gen Alpha. All of these generational designations reflect individuals who occupy space here on the planet. They are people. As I think about the barriers that exist, I immediately thought of the only thing I know of that is powerful enough to transcend these differences, that is, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is, after all, the power of God unto salvation... (Romans 1:16) This may sound simplistic, but, I really can't think of anything else that has the power to change from the inside out any person of any generation. The song says people need the Lord. Yep. That is true. It really is. Amen.

Now that I have gotten us all stirred up on that subject, let me see if I can take the edge off. I continue to know, up close and personal, that me, myself, and I, is the very best source of comic material that I share with my audience from time to time. I don't always connect my stories directly to myself, most likely due to the embarrassment factor. But, let's face it. Old people can be and often are very funny. I recently read a study that was done in Great Britain that looked at how people process humor at different ages. The good news says that even older folks can still recognize funny and are able to laugh as a result. The study did find that older folks need to understand the joke in order to have the appropriate response. Hey, so we slow down a little. The younger folks get it quicker, but, we do get there. And, when we do, we laugh. That's a good thing. There are many little stories that help illustrate how age impacts our day to day living. Here is a classic: ~ An elderly couple had dinner at another couple's house, and after eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen. The two gentlemen were talking, and one said, "Last night we went out to a new restaurant and it was really great. I would  recommend it very highly." The other man said, "What is the name of the  restaurant?" The first man thought and thought and finally said, "What is the name of that flower you give to someone you love? You know... the  one that's red and has thorns." "Do you mean a rose?" "Yes, that's the one," replied the man. He then turned towards the kitchen and yelled, "Rose, what's the name of that restaurant we went to last  night?" ~ That one is closer to home than I would like to admit. I do hope you have a wonderful rest of the day and may our Great God add His blessings as we continue our journey here. Amen. .....More later.

II Corinthians 6:2 NKJV, "For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

We are having our own little celebration here at the old blogger ranch. It's Tuesday, May 22, 2018, and I'm celebrating Tuesday all day long. It is, after all is said and done, "the day the Lord has made." (Psalm 118:24) There is a 'this day' orientation in God's Word, the Bible. It is mentioned over 300 times. When we really think about it, it's the one we have in order to make something of it. The only one! Doing good with the day is a reasonable and productive goal. Thomas Jefferson said, "I believe that every human mind feels pleasure in doing good to another." That almost sounds like he knew about the release of those brain chemicals when we give of ourselves on behalf of someone else. The good stuff, like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, called by brain researchers, the 'Happiness Trifecta'. For those who have identified themselves with Jesus, the Christ, as Lord and Savior, there's certainly a lot more to why we would occupy ourselves in seeking to make the most of our day through honoring Him and serving others. It is our calling. The Apostle Paul gave us the inspired text that calls on us to have the mind of Christ as we go along our way. (Philippians Chapter 2) What was the mind of Christ? In Luke 19:10, Jesus said, "For the son of man has come to seek and to save the lost." In Matthew 20:28, Jesus also said, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." Talk about a role model! If we reflect the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus, we please Him and serve others. On top of that, you get those chemical thingies too. Sounds like compounded blessings to me. What say you?

Sounds really good, but, believe me, it's not easy. We need help. We are very weak on our own. Recognizing our need is a great starting place. That's where He wants us to be. He will help us if we yield to Him and seek out opportunities to serve Him. That scream of the urgent is not going away. However, we can, with His help, do good. But only if we intend to do so. And, only if we look to Him to enable us to do the 'all things' He has called us to do. (Philippians 4:13) This doesn't mean that we neglect our job responsibilities, but, we can do all of the above to the extent possible as we go about our daily lives. I'll not soon forget a huge meeting at the big company many years ago. It was a briefing on a huge computerization project. That's what they called them back in the day. The room was full. The who's who of the data processing group was there. All the high muckety mucks. The project leader's name was Robert. He stood up to get started. He said something like this, "Gentleman, this is a large and expensive project for our company. It will take tremendous work, commitment, and effort to complete. Because of its size and complexity, I want to pause and with your permission, I want to ask God to help us as we do this work." Dead silence. You could have heard a pin drop. Robert then prayed a simple prayer asking God to help those engaged in this work. He ended and said, Amen. The looks on the faces of the executives were one of surprise and bemusement. But, he did it. I think they respected him for it, but, I'm sure he was told not to do it again. I still remember it well and that was over 40 years ago.

No. I'm not trying out for a writing position with an inspirational devotional publishing company. Too wordy. Too scattered. And, how many editors would they need to correct my stuff? But, those first two paragraphs was what I was thinking about and that's what ended up on the electronic page. Last week my doctor deleted one diabetic pill and replaced it with a new one. The deleted one has weight gain as a side effect. He told me that only 1% of those taking that particular pill had reported that as a problem. He gave me the impression that he thought it might not be an issue. I told the doctor that 1% could mean quite a few people if the reporting population was really large. He didn't roll his eyes but he did get that slightly exasperated look on his face. The new pill works somewhat differently. I started taking it last Friday evening. It takes me a while to adjust to a new medication that impacts my blood sugar. Saturday, I felt pretty light-headed and somewhat wiped out. I mostly spent the day making new indentions in my recliner. On Sunday, I continued the medication and felt some better. I was able to stay awake in both the morning and evening Church services. I did carry some candy with me, just in case. I don't know if I needed the candy but I ate it anyway. Next time I'm with my doctor I'll try to inform him about the value of preemptive candy therapy. I bet you anything he has not even studied that body of truth. I did make eye contact a time or two with the watcher from the choir. When I did, I stretched my eyes as wide open as they would go, to make sure she knew I was WIDE awake. I hope no one else saw me. They might think I'm having some other type of side effect. I know. Discombobulated in full view. Have yourself a great rest of the day and I'll do my best to see you again, on this station, come tomorrow morning. May God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

“A happy family is but an earlier heaven.” — George Bernard Shaw

I'm here. And, yes, just for the record, I am on time today. Just like, most days. It is Monday, May 21, 2018, and I do bid you a hearty welcome. Last Thursday, (May 17), was the first anniversary of the memorial service we had for our mom. It's also the day our great grand Gabriella was born. Saying farewell to the Matriarch of our family while saying hello and welcome to our newest member, well, to me, that does, in fact, demonstrate how that life goes on. That first photo on the top left is yours truly. I actually got my hands on Gabi before her MiMi did. MiMi had stayed in Louisiana to help see after dad. The bottom left is our great grand Madi, (8), and little Gabi, with sitting outside the restaurant with their great grands. The bottom right is Gabi with her great grand Poppy Claus. We are blessed beyond measure to have the family God has given to us. If you see Gabi doing her thing on a real-time video session, you would be impressed and entertained. Gabi and her mom, our granddaughter Brittany will be leaving Fort Riley, Kansas to visit in our area for a couple of weeks beginning in early June. Her dad, Ryan, will stay behind to carry on his US Army duties. We are anxious to see them. Her Paw Paw, our eldest Chris, and her Maw Maw, Chris' wife, Sherrie, are chomping at the bit to have them in their home. She is a little entertainer. There's no doubt about that.

I was out on the road for several hours last Friday. One of the sports stations suspended their broadcasting and put up a live feed of local non-stop coverage of the school shooting at the high school in Santa Fe, Texas. They were interviewing students, parents, school officials, law enforcement, and others. It made me want to both cry and throw up at the same time. One of the things I detest about these incidents is how people on both sides of the issue regarding gun control versus the 2nd Amendment have to jump in with all of their arguments. Can't everyone just pause and consider the magnitude of the devastation to the families, perhaps, for once? There will be plenty of time for these voices to be heard. Maybe we all could appreciate and ponder the words of our President immediately following this tragic incident: "Unfortunately, I have to begin by expressing our sadness and heartbreak over the deadly shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas that just took place moments ago. We’re closely monitoring the situation and federal authorities are coordinating with local officials. This has been going on too long in our country too many years, too many decades now. We grieve for the terrible loss of life and send our support and love to everyone affected by this absolutely horrific attack. To the students, families, teachers, and personnel at Santa Fe High, we’re with you at this tragic hour, and we’ll be with you forever. My administration is determined to do everything in our power to protect our students, secure our schools and to keep weapons out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves and to others. Everyone must work together at every level of government to keep our children safe. May God heal the injured, and may God comfort the wounded, and may God be with the victims and with the victims’ families. Very sad day. Very, very sad." I agree. May God help is my prayer. Amen.

We were becoming very dry in and around our area, but, praise the Lord, we did get us some rain yesterday. The best record I could find was for a little less than 3 inches of rain in our specific area. We sure needed it. I think it must have been considerably more than that in some areas. The water was over the road in two different places on my ride in this morning. It had come one of those rainstorm events right when Church was dismissed yesterday. No one had anticipated it being that way, therefore, nearly everyone had to wait until it slacked. There were a number of loan umbrellas in the Church reception area so I grabbed one and made a dash to my truck. It was coming down hard. I had to wade a little water to get to my truck. Talk about a spontaneous downpour! Five miles from the Church it was sunny and hot. We got home. We were somewhat disappointed that our parched yard had not received any of the liquid refreshment. But, alas, it did show up. Big time. My wife didn't do a rain dance celebration but she was thanking God for His provision. That's always a good response even as I drove carefully through the water this morning. Yes. Thank you, Lord, for the rain. Have a great rest of the day and may God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

The shoe is now on the other foot: "The circumstances have reversed, the participants have changed places."

Well, hello there, my, it seems like it was only yesterday. Yep. It was. The last time we met up. Now we move on to today where we are eagerly anticipating, (I know that I am), the end of this work week. That's right. It is Friday, May 18, 2018, and I do bid you a hearty hello and welcome to today's episode. If you were reading my blog ten years ago, here is what I had to say, ~ Fortuitous Friday! I know it's a little long today but it is what it is. While the word fortuitous is related to the word fortunate and usually reflects the idea of things unfolding by lucky chance, those of us who are God’s very own know that our lives do not play out based on this type of happenstance. In fact, the believer’s life is 100% in God’s hands at all times, period, end of story. We do live in a sin-cursed, fallen world that is dangerous, and often experience troubles in our sojourn here. However, we can always depend on God to be there for us and He will see us through the good times and the bad. The blessings involved in being His very own child far outweigh the very temporary challenges we have here, and even those difficulties typically can also become sources of praise to our heavenly Father. ~ Much has happened over these past ten years but I do believe my blog posting back then was an accurate portrayal of the life of God's own children, and, it remains that way today. For that, and so much more, we give Him the thanks and praise. Amen.

There is an audio recording taking the internet by storm. It is being played on every social media platform. Millions have listened to it. Some who listen to it hear one thing. Others who listen to it hear something totally different. Some hear the word Yanny said over and over again. Others hear the word Laurel over and over again. Me? The first time I listened to it I heard Laurel one time and then the rest of the brief recording I heard Yanny. When I first saw it pop up I thought it was something to do with Laurel and Hardy, the slapstick comedy team who were active from the late 1920's through the early 1950's. I soon learned that it wasn't. Supposedly, it has something to do with how each person's brain works. The audio experts are weighing in. Engineering folks have their assessment. Those who traffic in psychological processing, they have their opinions. So far, I really don't know if it means that much if anything at all. There are those who think it to be some type of trick or hoax. It does tell us one thing. It doesn't take much to get folks involved and stirred up. Not much at all. They now have improved recordings that guarantee the listener will hear whichever one they want to hear. And, even some that promise you will hear both, alternating. At the end of it all, it is another day for us to be busy in doing our best to embrace and be productive on the day the Lord has made. I think it best that I occupy myself in that endeavor. What say you? (For those who want to hear some true certified nerds talking about this, here's a link for you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3km896XZ-J0)

My wife insisted that I tell the doctor how easily I fall asleep. She contends that if I get still I easily can fall asleep. Like I did in the waiting room down at the hospital. She was thinking maybe I was developing a form of sleep apnea or even narcolepsy. I dutifully brought up the subject to my primary care. He asked me a number of questions. Do you sleep well at night? I do. Do you feel rested when you wake up? I do. Do you snore all the time? I don't. I wasn't altogether pleased with his conclusion. He said it seems to him that I don't have a medical problem, but, people in their 70's have earned the right to nap. Like I say, I'm still trying to process all of that. It almost sounds like he was making an old age assessment. I did defend myself to the wife. I told her that I had not fallen asleep in Church lately. She said she couldn't be sure because I had learned how to position myself so that it's hard for her to tell from the choir loft. Here's a really funny one. Her singing partner mentioned to me that my wife actually fell asleep in the choir loft during services and that she had to nudge her with her elbow. Really? She did what? The watcher fell asleep? I could hear a whole lot of clucking going on. It was the sound of chickens coming home to roost. They always do. Not that I would ever mention it to her. That's just not how I am put together. I'm not completely sure but I think that little revelation made my day. And, I slept even better the next time I got good and still. You do know I am mostly joking around here. I hope she does too. With three months until I hit 72, I've made it to a new status in life, 'I've earned the right to nap!" Enjoy your Saturday and Lord's Day Sunday. Lord willing, I will see y'all again, come next Monday. Until then, may God bless us all is my prayer. Amen. .....More later.

"Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical. A few days later, the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm. A couple of days later, the doctor spoke to Morris and said: 'You're really doing great, aren't you?' Morris replied: 'Just doing what you said, Doc. Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.' The doctor said: 'I didn't say that. I said, You've got a heart murmur - be careful.'" ~ copied

Hello and welcome. It's Thursday, May 17, 2018. If you are reading this today it must mean that I made it through my physical examination. I would say with flying colors but I'm not 100% that would be accurate. Timeout. Let me check something first. Here's what I found on the use of flying colors as a metaphor: "To pass with flying colors means to pass with distinction. This term has a nautical history. It derives from when ships would return home with their "colors" (another word for flags) flying to show they had been victorious." I think it best to wait until all the reports are in before I make any further comment. However, I did enjoy my time with my doctor. He is very businesslike and both the wife and I like him very much. He has his medical background to support his conclusions. I have about a 35-year headstart on him in terms of age, therefore, I can offer my gained experience as we talk about medical matters, family stuff, and other topics as well. The connection and the results have worked well over the past seven years. I haven't used any doctor jokes on him yet. Except for him dealing with me. At least it gives him something to talk about later. On a sad note for us, he and his wife will be leaving this area in the fall. I sure hate to lose our doctor. When I talked to him about it, he told me that he and his wife (a pediatrician) are going to be on staff working in Nairobi, Kenya as doctors in a mission hospital. I told him I guessed it would do no good to argue with the Lord. He smiled. May God bless these two and their two small children as they answer the call to the mission field. Amen.

Things do change as we get older. These record-setting hot temperatures seem to really zap me. Back when I was a teenager, those hot temperatures meant that it was swimming hole time. We would get there early and stay all day. We would take turns swinging out on a rope for hours upon hours. Nowadays I try to be on close terms with the air conditioning system as much as possible. And, I remind everyone one more time how those who yearned for summer to get here, I do hope you are satisfied. I really do. We are early on in the season and it has already hit 95 degrees here. I looked at the records for temperatures for the month of May in our area. The average low is 68 degrees and the average high is 86 degrees. I did see one record low for May that I really liked. It was 44 degrees. Thank you very much, I will take that one any day of the week. Sadly, the lower temperatures are typically within the first week. After that, the song made famous by June Carter Cash and husband Johnny comes to mind. It's the one with the line, "hotter than a pepper sprout". Oh well, we are blessed to have a brand new a/c and furnace system at our residence. It was installed this week. It's supposed to save us money. I will be the judge on that one. Meanwhile, I will try to think cool thoughts and watch videos showing blizzard-like conditions. It may not help much, but, I will take any of it that I can get.

I'm all for having a day set aside to honor folks and to celebrate great remembrances. Mothers, fathers, teachers, police, military, nurses, and so many others we never even knew existed. Just in the month of May, there are many that are somewhat obscure. To me, at least. A national tourist appreciation day; military spouses day; birth mother's day; dance like a chicken day; visit your relatives day; waiters and waitresses day; lucky penny day; leprechaun day; no socks day; brothers and sisters day; and the one I liked but didn't know about: older Americans' month. There were many others but I am somewhat baffled how many of these do end up showing up on social media. If you designate a 'love your pet' day, well, you are guaranteed to get at least a million photos of pets with inscriptions about how much they mean to their owner. I'm not sure owner is politically correct today. Maybe it is now called a pet provider or pet facilitator. I'm not up to date on how that goes. At any rate, there are so many days of adulation, they, in my opinion, run the risk of all running together. You know. They are all so special, we end up with nothing being really special. However, now that I am aware that the entire month of May is designated to celebrate older Americans, well, for some reason that one resonates with me. It has a nice ring to it. If you get my drift. Take care, and remember that God loves us all regardless of whether there's a day set aside in our honor. Amen. ....More later.

We give God the praise and glory, for He alone is worthy. Amen.

Good morning and welcome to Wednesday, May 16, 2018. Yesterday was some day. Our twelve-year-old grandson Alex had a heart cath and then an ablation procedure completed in the Houston downtown medical center. I was the first one there. I made it to the pediatric surgical registration at 5:15 a.m. Alex was supposed to be there by 5:30 a.m. He made it just a few minutes after that time. He was wound up pretty tight when he got there. We talked and I gave him the assurances I could as his grandfather. Before they took him back, I was able to share a brief prayer with him. I did my best to keep my composure because he was already in a heightened state. Good news. He was in surgery for nearly six hours and they were able to complete the heart ablation and his heart should now beat more normally. He may have to be on medication as well. We had many family members, Church members, and others who were interceding with the Lord on behalf of our Alex. That's very humbling. We do give God the praise for He alone is worthy. The photo shows our Alex at different ages. Our grandchildren are very special to us, but, I think you knew that already.  Amen.

Being there for many hours in the designated pediatric waiting area, we saw many children. Some were special needs and their caregivers had their hands full taking care of them. Some had all kinds of tubes and wires and equipment connected to them. My heart went out to each of them. The wife commented that seeing them made one count their blessings. Another lady said it did cause one to alter their perception. The lady who was shepherding us through the process was very nice. In visiting with her, I gave her one of our Santa and Mrs. Claus cards as a souvenir. She was excited to get it. She had coordinated the Christmas party last year for the pediatric wing and she said she scrambled to find a Santa to come in. I told her we would be interested in something like that. When we got into this portrayal game we had in mind being able to minister to children in need and maybe this will help to open a door to an even wider audience. The opportunities we have had to be Santa to children with special needs have all been wonderful blessings.

Today I am dragging a little. A long day yesterday. And, today, I get to go for my annual physical. This means no coffee and no food. Fasting. The food is no big deal. The coffee. Don't even talk about it! My appointment is not until after 9 a.m., and for me, as an early riser, well, even as I type this paragraph, it's nearly 5 hours away. I should have slept in. Too late for that now. My Keurig just sits there looking at me wondering what in the world is going on. It usually is in non-stop coffee making mode, but, not this morning. Sorry. I promise to make it up to you later. The wife volunteered to go with me to the doctor. I told her I didn't think that would be necessary. She wants to make sure that I cover all the bases. I know what I will do. I will make a list and check it twice. That way I will be sure and make my time with my doctor as productive as possible. They will draw blood and I'm supposed to get a new Shingles vaccine. I'm sitting here trying to figure out where I can stop on the way back to work to get a 'real' cup of coffee. Please don't mention the fast food joints. I've been there and done that. I might just drop by the house and get me a cup of Community. That will be like a reward for being a good boy. Or, something like that. I do hope everyone has a great rest of the day and yes, it's okay for you to pray for my doctor. It wouldn't be the first time folks have suggested that. I wonder why? May God bless each one. Amen. ....More later.

Remembering my baby sister Kayla on what would have been her 66th birthday.

It's Tuesday, May 15, 2018, and I am thinking about my baby sister, Kayla Jean. This is the 66th anniversary of her birth. She went home to be with the Lord in 1978 at age 27. She came down with a deadly form of leukemia and 18 months later she was gone. She will always be the baby of our family. She left behind a testimony of how a believer can face death in a way that encourages us all. She also left behind her three girls, our nieces, Stacy, Kelly, and Mary Beth. We could hardly come to grips with this challenge in her life, but, she came to realize that knowing that you know the Lord is what life, and death, is all about. Kayla is remembered more than just on her birthday or the anniversary of her home going. Recently, I was thinking about how that as a teenager she used to ride with the wife and me. She wanted to sing along with us a portion of a particular Dottie Rambo song:

Verse

When I'm low in spirit I cry Lord lift me up
I want to go higher with Thee
But the Lord Knows I can't live on a mountain
so He picked out a valley for me

Chorus

He leads me beside still waters
somewhere in the valley below
He draws me aside
to be tested and tried
but in the valley, He restoreth my soul

Memories. This quote has certainly been true in my life, "The past beats inside of me like a second heart." (Author, John Banville) We try to make a big deal out of Mothers Day each year. We have so much to be thankful for as it relates to all the moms who have been influential in our lives. However, I know a fellow whose mom more or less abandoned him when he was a wee little lad. He has a great wife who is a good mom, but, Mothers Day is not anything for him to celebrate with regard to his birth mom. God was good to him because an aunt and uncle took him in and raised him. He counts them as his parents. Recently, using the internet, I helped him locate his real dad. He already knows where is real mom lives. He doesn't really want to see them. His aunt passed away a few years ago and he honored her as his mom. He still calls his uncle, dad. I point this out because there are always those among us who have not had the privileged life where their real mom was there to love and care for them. This makes me even more thankful for how God has blessed in my life and it makes me sensitive to those who have not experienced that kind of affection. I really only have one word of encouragement. God is the answer. He is the healer of all hurts. Amen.

I ask everyone to say a prayer for our Alexander Benjamin. Alex is our 12-year-old grandson. He has been dealing with a runaway heart for some time now and they will be doing a heart cath this morning to try and pinpoint a way to improve his situation. Our Alex was handed some health issues from the get-go, but, he continues to persevere. They hope to slow down his heart rate by working on some of the nerves. We do love this boy and pray God's provision into his life at this time. He is anxious about the procedure. Who wouldn't be? We are blessed to have access to wonderful medical specialties here in the Houston area. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. What a privilege to be able to call upon believers both within our immediate family as well as our extended Christian family to join us in seeking God at this time. We know that God knows, but, He has given us the privilege of coming to His throne of grace in our time of need. He invites us to do that very thing. (Hebrews 4:16) There will be an entourage there with him in the downtown medical center and we know that God is aware. Thanks for praying. Enjoy the rest of your day and may God help us to help each other as we face the challenges of life. Amen. .....More later.

"Don’t wait. Make memories today. Celebrate your life!" ~ unknown

It's Monday, May 14, 2018. Welcome back. This is where I do my best to share my version of 'where the rubber meets the road'. That phrase is typically used to emphasize the actual implementation or application of ideas, concepts, and visions. I suppose here at the ole blogger ranch, my usage has to do with life. The earliest use to be found is from a newspaper article from 1956. The writer was talking about what it takes to become successful in advertising for radio and TV. Here's the quote from the article: "How much is it going to cost? Let's get down to where the rubber meets the road." I'm preparing a lesson for next Sunday on what the Bible teaches regarding giving. The text has to do with financial giving, but, actually, the issue does have to do more generically with the condition of the heart, as in the adage, 'the heart of the matter is a matter of the heart'. One thing that social media does is make everyone aware of opportunities to donate to worthy causes. It's overwhelming. These appeals are everywhere. Many are either posted by or supported by dear friends. There's no way that we could support them all. No way. In addition, we have constantly before us the needs of our local fellowship of believers, of missionaries, or other outreach ministries. The internet, Facebook, Twitter, Emails, and other social media utilities are inundated with these stories along with requests for funding help. That's where the rubber meets the road for those in need. The majority of these are clearly legit, so much so, I feel torn in not being able to respond to as many as I would like to. If only. That reminds me of a fellow who told me once that he was so burdened by this great need in the Church we were in at the time, he wished the Lord would let him win the lottery so he could take care of that need. I couldn't help myself so I blurted out, "God doesn't really care about what you would do with something you don't have, He is concerned with what you are doing with what you do have."  Thanks. I needed that. Or, at least I think I did.

Sometimes when I have a few minutes I like to read from one of the reprinted newspapers that are historical in nature. The other day I was reading from the front page of the Washington D. C. 'The Evening Star', dated August 14, 1945. That particular edition was heralding the surrender of Japan and the end of World War II. (That photo is of the actual newspaper.) It was a special edition of twelve pages. I've looked through it a number of times. However, there is a small article on the front page that I had not noticed before. ~ The bolded title from this Associated Press article said this, "Private Falls to Death At Peace Celebration" followed by this notice: DENVER, Aug. 14 -- A 25 year-old soldier was killed in a fall from a third-story hotel room early today during a peace celebration. The victim was Pvt. Allan A. Allison of Youngstown, Ohio, stations at Lowery Field. Detective L.C. Sawyer said a fist fight preceded Allison's fall and that Geron Shelton, 24, of Temple, Texas, a veteran of this war was arrested for investigation. ~ Looking on the internet, I was able to find the grave marker for Private Allison. I also found an obscure record of the testimony of Detective L. C. Sawyer in an unrelated case. I also think I found the information on Geron Shelton. Right age and location in Texas, he lived to be 78 years old. I just thought it was interesting how he got involved in a fistfight at a peace celebration and ended up dead. Life. It can be hard to figure out.

I don't know why but those kinds of things strike me as being relevant in our never knowing what a day might bring. It may be a small thing but I never leave for work without kissing my wife and telling her I love her. Some might say that's a silly routine, but, for me, it does recognize the fragility of life. We just never know. I'm guessing that Private Allison, wearing the uniform of his country, and now excited about the prospects of the end of a long protracted war, never thought his showing up for the peace celebration in Denver, Colorado would lead to his death. My point? If you have something you want to say to someone, don't wait. If you have something you want to do for someone, don't wait. If you know you need to get things right with God, don't wait. I read enough news stories and obituaries to know that every day brings unexpected consequences, some of them fatal, to unsuspecting people. I thought about these things when I read that little notice. That's why I shared it with you today. Nothing more than that. Here's an interesting observation from Kathy Reichs, an American Forensics Anthropologist and Crime Writer, "My line of work makes you aware of the fragility of life. You can get up in the morning, eat your cornflakes, blow-dry your hair, go to work and end up dead." With that happy thought, I commend us all to the loving care of our Heavenly Father. Amen. ....More later.

"The mother's heart is the child's schoolroom." ~ Henry Ward Beecher (1813-1887)

Today is Friday, May 11, 2018. On Sunday we anticipate celebrating another day set aside to recognize and honor mothers. Sunday is the 13th and that marks the one year anniversary of my dearest mother's homegoing. Five years ago, I wrote the following tribute and published it in one of my blogs. I thought it was appropriate to share it again. ~ I am sitting here thinking about all the special moms that have had such a huge impact on my life. The annual day where we honor moms in a special way is coming up on Sunday. The photo reflects the obvious. My dear mother. Her mom, Granny Mac. My wife. Her mom, Mom Rawles. These ladies literally influenced and shaped my life and are in many ways responsible for who I am today. The word profound comes to mind because that's the level and extent of these moms along with their impact on my life. All of these ladies reflect special talents and abilities. They were and are known for their devotion to their family. But, perhaps the most telling distinction I can think of is their shared common belief in God and their efforts to live, with His help, the life of a Godly woman. Mom Rawles was a pastor's wife for most of her adult life. She was a simple woman of faith and I learned to love her dearly. Granny Mac helped raise us kids and she never quit quoting the Scriptures to us up until her final days here on the earth. My mom sacrificed for us kids, took us to Church, worked outside and inside our home, and today she remains committed to the study of God's Word. Lastly, my wife, she is beloved by all, and the boys and I along with their wives, children, grandchildren, and the great grand, all can rise up in thanking God for who she is and all that she does for each of us. Thank God for mothers who show us the way. Amen.~

The other day when I was back at our home place in Louisiana, I felt differently. There are still many memories that permeate the surroundings of that old house and the property. However, it's not the same anymore. Granny and Paw Paw Mac are gone. Mom and dad are gone. They are not lost because we know where they are, but, they are no longer there. I walked out to the back shed and looked around at the field where we planted so many vegetable gardens. What a lovely place. What a life God allowed me to be a part of. And, it is because of the people He placed in my life. I was glad to be at the home place again but I don't have a need to go there anymore. Soon, it will belong to my niece and she can do with it as she chooses. Over the years we closed a number of chapters and now the book is finished. Like I say, I will always cherish the memories made in that place. Some folks may feel blessed because of the inheritance left to them. I feel blessed because of the continuing presence of the influence and caring that came my way through these folks who not only changed my life but, they did help to make me who I am today. I may go back there again. We are still working on the sale of the house and property. But, if not, I'm okay with that. May God bless the memory and legacy of those who once lived in those two homesteads, my grandparents, and my parents. Amen.

The eaglets born back in December may have also left their home place. And, even their mom and dad may be looking for new nesting grounds. Maybe the old home place doesn't have the attraction that it once had. These eagles have been seen by more than 125 million people who have kept up with them online since the littles were born last December. Maybe they all decided to take a vacation. They do live fairly close to Disneyworld. Or, maybe, it was time to move on. None of them have been spotted for the past several days. (Mom and dad Eagle may have decided it was best to abandon the old home place where their offspring would know the fish that used to be brought there would no longer be available.) Scholars believe the man endowed with wisdom from above, Solomon, is the one God chose to pen the words in the writing of Ecclesiastes, where he made this sober observation, "To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:..."(Chapter 3, Verse 1, NKJV) I know there is a pull inside where we try and hang on, to preserve that which we had, from yesterday. But, it is the here and now that gives us the opportunity to invest our time, talent, and effort. Hopefully, in a way that pleases God. This would be engaging in activities that reflect what Jesus described should be the motivating factors in the pursuit of life. Here is how the words of Jesus are rendered in the New American Standard Bible (NASB), from Luke 10:27, "And he answered, 'YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.'" That's one we could start and end with each day. Have a great Saturday and Lord's Day Sunday. Happy Mothers Day to all the moms who read my blog and may God add His blessings. Amen. .....More later.

"Our entire much-praised technological progress, and civilization generally, could be compared to an axe in the hand of a pathological criminal." ~ Albert Einstein

Good morning and welcome to a new day. This one happens to be tagged with this identity: Thursday, May 10, 2018. Most of you know that I grew up in a rural area. After commuting in to and working in downtown Houston for some 24 years, I've spent the past nearly 12 years working at a facility that is somewhat like a return to my roots in a location in a rural area. Our facility uses modern technology to assist in our fabrication work, but, we are, as is often said, located off the beaten path. If you need proof, search my blogs and read the many times I've chronicled my contacts with the wildlife that still operates in this territory. Will it always stay this way? Probably not. Recently, a new convenience store opened a few miles from our workplace. Before they started construction on that facility there was nothing there but woods. It took them many months to complete that project. It's not only a C-Store, but it has room for other stores as well, like a small strip center. Here's the interesting feature. It is open 24 hours a day. I'm not talking about being able to purchase gas at the pump 24 hours a day. The store itself is open 24 hours a day. Where only woods stood before, now stands this large commercial operation and guess what? People are there. Not just the workers. I typically come by that store at 3:45 a.m. each morning. Several cars are typically there. There was no there-there just a few months ago. I suppose like the theme from the movie, this confirms the adage, "Build it and they will come." I wonder what they did before this place opened. Who knows? Maybe street lights next. That would make my daily commutes safer for me and for my animal friends as well.

I know most people are aware that when it comes to anti-Trump bias, the mainstream media is eat up with it. I fear it is terminal. The recently revealed back-channel meetings between former Secretary of State John Kerry and Iranian officials is a good example. He is now a private citizen. Back when one of Trump's appointees made contacts with a foreign government, the mainstream press dug up a 1799 law called the Logan Act to say that particular individual needed to be prosecuted. This somewhat obscure law calls for the fine or imprisonment of private citizens who attempt to intervene without authorization in disputes or controversies between the United States and foreign governments. It has never been used to successfully prosecute any American citizen. Nevertheless, the mainstream was determined to see Trump's man dealt with using this statute. Fast forward to John Kerry. A much clearer case of interference could be made as he, a private citizen, attempted to influence the outcome of deliberations regarding the so-called US-Iranian nuclear deal. Clear cut. No mention by the mainstream press of the Logan Act with regard to John Kerry's meddling. None. Some of the conservative sources have pointed out this glaring double standard, but, most take it in stride, knowing that is how it works in our world today.

I'm not saying everything that Trump does is hunky dory. Obviously, his behavior, responses, and general approaches can be irritating to those who dislike him as well as those who voted for him. That would be me. One of President Obama's key advisors recently said that progress in the job market and economy can be directly attributed to President Obama's strategies. You have to know the mainstream would have loved to have run with that one, but, even they know how laughable that would be. You have a new President who does the opposite of what the previous one did and the economy begins to show improvement. Not even the most naive of our fellow citizens would buy how the previous administration going in a completely different direction could take credit for these positive changes. Or, could they? Even as I write this, the mainstream may be attempting to find another obscure law written in the 1700's that requires the president they like to get any and all the credit for any all things they deem to be positive. Tongue and cheek? I wish I could say it is, but, we do know what The Scriptures say, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD like channels of water; he turns it wherever he wants." (Proverbs 21:1, from the NET Bible) This means God has the final say, period, end of story. I'm trusting in Him. What say you? Amen. .....More later.

“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” ― Pablo Picasso

Good morning and welcome. Today we will be participating in Wednesday, May 9, 2018. It does have an ending point, therefore, let's get out there and do the best we can with it. That was quoted from my own version of self-talk number forty-four. Just joking. But, it is good for us to be reminded about embracing the day the Lord has given to us. If we don't, we can end up with a case of the would haves, could haves, and should haves. Believe me, because of my natural procrastination inclinations, I've had to deal with those maladies way too many times. We have to live intentionally. The old adage is true. You can't get back the stone after it is thrown, or the word after it is said, or the occasion after it is missed, or the time after it is passed. Having intentions is a good thing. But, we all know they do not accomplish anything if they are not put into action. We all live with some amount of regret over things we wished we had done. "We often talked about going to see them but something always seemed to come up. Now we will have to wait until we see them in heaven." "That guy did so much for me, I wished I would have let him know while I had time." "I owed her an apology but the timing was never right. Now it's too late." "I sure hope someone let them know how much I really cared." Those came to mind and, yes, they most likely reflect some of my own personal experiences. I overheard a recent conversation regarding a serious business matter. It involved a good customer. The boss asked the employee if they had actually spoken to the individual involved. They had not. Only via texting and email. In frustration, the boss wondered out loud why we can't seem to talk to people anymore. And, that my friend, may be part of our problem. Sometimes a real hug, a real voice, a real hand makes all the difference in the world.

I not only was preaching to the choir in that paragraph but, it was aimed directly at the trio I know all too well. That would be none other than, me, myself, and I. However, you are more than welcome to be helped as well. One fellow recommended that we should starve the distractions in our lives while feeding our focus. Those who attempt to help folks to be successful in whatever endeavors they pursue typically advise many of the same things. Some of these include: 1) Turn off the automatic notifications on your smartphone. (It can be checked twice a day.) 2) Check, read, and respond to your emails maybe once or twice a day. 3) Remove clutter, physical and digital. 4) Unplug your TV. 5) Keep and work from a 'to-do' list. There are several others but those were enough to cause me to have that sensation of onset paranoia. Many of those technology-related tools have become an integrated part of who we are. Sadly. I do not have an audible notification set for messages coming to my phone. Most people do. Even at times when people are involved in important discussions, that phone goes 'bing' and the person starts twitching. Finally, the other individual says you might need to get that. Why? They don't want the other person to kill over from anxiety. They take the call. They shut it down. They say it was nothing, but, the previous moment is lost and the objective of the conversation is lost as well. Me, you, us, it's widespread and as Smokey the bear might warn, "Only you can do something about it."

I know I'm not that good at doing motivational stuff and most of those who are can prove their effectiveness by sharing examples of how their techniques have produced successful results. I was in a management conference and the fellow speaking had been brought in to help those of us in leadership to become more effective and more productive. This was many years ago and his program was based on a simple filing system approach to support getting things done. A marking pen and folders support this system which produces the actions you take each day. I don't remember all the details but I do remember him saying his system would work well in every facet of one's life including at home. One of the class members raised their hand and asked the guru to walk us through how he used his renowned system in his own family. Sounded like a reasonable request. The speaker began to hem-haw around, stutter, and he suddenly didn't seem to be able to find words. Finally, he blurted out that he had never applied this revolutionary approach in his own home. The one that guarantees outstanding results. The one that is simple and easy to apply. Oh well, as they say, if you can't do it yourself maybe you can tell others how they can do it. That speaker's credibility more or less went down the tubes. Our big boss who brought him in wasn't too happy. The way I see it, those folders were a form of the to-do list. They were tools. Tools help, but, they do have to be used. I do remember a fellow who called them vanilla folders instead of manilla, in case that helps. Take care. Now. You hear? See you next time and may God bless us all. Amen. ....More later.