"To remember the past is to see that we are here today by grace, that we have survived as a gift." ~ Frederick Buechner, 1926-2002, American author, Presbyterian minister, preacher, and theologian. The author of thirty-nine published books.

Well, hello there, welcome to my version of Flashback Friday on this last of August, Friday, August 29, 2025. It is good to be able to look back from time to time and hopefully we do so as we learn and grow. Right? I agree. I recently celebrated my 79th year plus 9 months of being alive here on the planet. I started blogging in the summer of 2007 and that year I was a mere 61 years and 9 months. Here's what I had to say in that blog where I was dealing with my birthday story.  As you can see I tended to be a wee bit wordy back then. Ha! File that under the category of: What Else is New? I also was going overboard on the graphics but that story still resonates today and, at least in the family we all laugh about it. Ha Ha. Enjoy. 

 

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2007

The King is Dead, The King is Dead!

In this my 70th blog, on this very day, I mark the 61st year of my sojourn here on this planet. The date is August 16th and for those of you in the know you will recognize this as the day that Elvis Presley, in 1977, left this life for the next. This year the media will be doing special presentations on Elvis to mark the 30th anniversary of his passing. History records that King Herod the Great actually left orders for several hundred highly respected men to be killed immediately upon his death to make certain there would be mourning throughout the territory when he died. In some ways I guess Elvis dying on my birthday brought more attention to it since there is typically much in the way of remembrances of the King. Prior to this, to mark the 16th, I had to settle for some obscure battle won by the Americans against the British in 1777.

I certainly well remember that very day that Elvis left the building for the last time. That afternoon, as we took our places on our commuter van it was obvious that people were acting very strangely. Some of the ladies riding with us were either crying or they had been crying. Those waiting for buses on street corners were boohooing as well. It was a surreal scene and the fellow driving and I commented on how absolutely bizarre it was that Elvis would still have this kind of impact on people. It was maybe not as widespread as when JFK went down but it certainly was in the same ballpark.

This was a uniquely strange situation but I had other fish to fry. One of the things my wife had drilled into me was that I should come home ready to be surprised for my birthday. She and our three boys had something planned and I had been warned not to come home all grumpy and washed out like normal. With all the stuff flying around about Elvis this was going to be even harder but I set my mind to psyching myself up for the big welcome. I’m one of those people who enjoy doing big birthdays for my wife and my boys but I do not care for a big birthday being done for me. This is another one of those quirks that I am sure someone from my past is responsible for and as soon as I find out who, they have a lot to answer for. It’s a joke, you can smile now!

In fact, I well remember a big birthday done for me at the big company by all of my employees. I had made it clear that I did not want anything done but they went behind my back and put together a huge deal and invited everyone in the department. I got wind of what was going on and made it clear I was none too happy about it. One of the ladies who had worked for me a long time came into my office, closed the door, and her message went like this: “Now you listen and you listen well. These people all love you. Why I’ll never know, but they do and they have gone to a lot of trouble to do this birthday deal for you. So, you need to get yourself down the hall and into that conference room and whether you like it or not, you need to show them how much you appreciate what they have done for you”. And, that’s exactly what I did!

The closer we got to my drop off place I continued to pump myself up to get ready for the big celebration awaiting me at home. I tried to guess what they might have done. Okay, now I was nearing the house. A big smile and get ready for the big welcome. I came to the door and knocked. Nothing. I unlocked the door and walked into the hall ready to have the whole crew jump out and say surprise, surprise! Nothing. What’s the deal? I walked to the end of the hall and could see all of them, my wife included, in the family room glued to the TV set watching the news reports about Elvis. I finally grunted and up jumped our youngest who was six at that time. He ran over to me and shouted out, “Daddy, daddy, the King is dead, the King is dead!” So there you have it, thanks to Elvis for croaking on my day, and happy birthday to me!”

One final thought, God has been good to me in that while Elvis has left the building for the last time, through His mercy and grace He has allowed me to continue in this life and it is my prayer that I will use wisely the remaining time He provides to me. More later……………..

John 16:33 New Living Translation ~ "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

Good morning blog readers. It is good to be at the keyboard this morning, clicking and clacking away, today's edition landing on Thursday, August 28, 2025. My wife commented that my typing had really improved since I restarted my blogging activity. That means I can make mistakes even faster now. I don't know why but the book title, 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' was stuck in my mind this morning. I say that because I've never read that book and pretty much know next to nothing about it, however, the title is one that caused me to ponder the way our lives unfold in this sin cursed world. It really, at times, does seem like a series of unfortunate events. Not in your world? Good for you! It seems like for our family we dealt with a whole lot of tragedies even from the time I was just a tyke. Granny Mac, my mom's mother used to say this in response to receiving word of another sad occurrence, "Son, you just never know what a day might bring." I mention this because some folks who deal with a lot of adversity, at times, think they are all alone in their experience. Yet, according to our Creator, as inspired by God the Holy Spirit, we are told this, "No trial has come upon you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tried more than you are able to bear; but he will, with the trial, make a way to escape, so that you be able to bear up under it." 1st Corinthians 10:13 from the Anderson New Testament. Many translations do use that word escape and we all applaud. Yay for escape but the truth is the way of escape involves our ability to bear it not avoid it. I've not met anyone who has been able to avoid difficult times because it is very much a part of the human existence here in this fallen world. I'm saying that no one should feel like they are being picked on although I must confess that I have felt that way myself at times. I will not recount the many family members we've lost beginning with my dad in 1954, but, there is no way that these loses make any sense whatsoever from a human rationalization standpoint. I well remember my mom's dad Paw Paw Mac's response in the face of great calamity or loss, he couldn't sing a lick but he could mimic the words of the Ira F. Stanphil song:

 

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow

I don't know about tomorrow
I just live from day to day
I don't borrow from the sunshine
For its skies may turn to gray

 

I don't worry o'er the future
For I know what Jesus said
And today I'll walk beside Him
For He knows what lies ahead

 

Chorus: 

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand

 

Ev'ry step is getting brighter
As the golden stairs I climb
Ev'ry burden's getting lighter
Ev'ry cloud is silver lined

 

Well there the sun is always shining
There no tear will dim the eye
At the ending of the rainbow
Where the mountains touch the sky

 

Chorus: 

Many things about tomorrow
I don't seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand

 

Yes I know who holds tomorrow
And I know who holds my hand

 

 

I'm not trying to get us all down and out because the only thing that can get us up and going is our Father who is in heaven. The other thing that I know to be true is this: Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who are called according to his purpose". I didn't say I can comprehend the full meaning of this promise but I do know this: I can, by faith, apprehend it as the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. The all things in some people's way of seeing it has to do with good stuff. Nope. All things. The good, the bad, the ugly, and, yes, even the terrible, He is at work in all things to bring good to His own. I've heard it explained many different ways but the bottom line is to trust Him. He will make a way. He will. I've been there and done that. He will. Have a great rest of the day and may God add His blessings. Amen.

Here's what Mr. Artificial Intelligence has to say about using the internet to share the Gospel: "To spread the gospel online, create authentic, personal testimonies and share scripture through engaging formats like videos, infographics, and blogs on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Start with prayer, foster positive interactions, avoid arguments, and use creative storytelling to reach a broad audience with the message of faith in Jesus Christ. "

Good morning and welcome. It is Wednesday, August 27, 2025, and, I am bringing greetings from my blog space to wherever you happen to be. I say that intentionally because my blogs go here, there, and practically any and everywhere people use the internet. I am not using any advertising and I have never entertained any thought of trying to monetize my blogs. Yet, in the past 6 months The View From Here has been viewed nearly 100,000 times. Here's the breakdown by country for the most recent 6 months: Singapore 24.1K, United States 22.8K, Brazil 15.9K, Vietnam 10.1K, Canada 7K, France 1.97K, Hong Kong 1.61K, Mexico 1.13K, United Kingdom 1.11K, Other 12.7K. For many years the United Kingdom pretty much followed right after the United States. Obviously, something has changed. Maybe they have put up screening rules and my slang fest writing may be considered subversive. Or, perhaps they see it as a threat to the English language worthy of some blocking activity. I don't have a clue. However, I am thankful for the platform I have where I can give honor to our Creator God and how that each of us can be made right with Him through His provision of His One and Only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. I have said in the past that many if not most of those who land on my blog are likely searching for something else. That's okay. As our Pastor likes to say, "God can use any means whatsoever to save anyone at anytime, period." (something like that) I won't go through the entire story but remember the Russian engineer who was working in Iraq when he saw John 3:16 scribbled on the side of a tunnel they were building. He eventually returned to Russian but he had that John 3:16 stuck in his mind. He looked and looked and finally was able to find out it was a Bible verse and when he was finally able to read it, he was gloriously saved. Wow! Do we serve a great God or what? Amen.

 

I haven't angered anyone recently about politics so I thought I would write a little to stir up the collective blood pressure of many in my area of influence. I voted three times for Trump. Why? Because I could not stomach the alternatives. Period. Some in my circle think he is God's man put in charge to provide relief for His people. I will agree that he is where he is because of God's sovereign will. I hope he is a believer, however, I heard him say that he has never asked God for forgiveness because he has never needed to. Yikes. In fairness I also heard him say there's no one more Christian than him. I report. You decide. Here's my take: He is doing some good. I support his doing good. As a person, I recognize that he is ego driven and very narcissistic in his dealings. I watched as much as I could take of his cabinet meeting yesterday. It was one after the other essentially kissing his ring and saying great things about him. I did what we all can do. I turned it off. I continue to support him and the programs that further freedom for our country. Remember. God is in control. "God called King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, a pagan ruler, his "servant" in the Bible to fulfill His purposes, primarily to judge the wicked kingdom of Judah and execute divine punishment. While not a willing follower of God, Nebuchadnezzar was used as an instrument of God's wrath, illustrating that God's power is sovereign and extends even to non-believing rulers to accomplish His will. Another example is King Cyrus of the Medes, who was called God's "anointed" and "shepherd" for a similar purpose." (copied)  I will continue to support our President and pray for him but I do so with my understanding of who he is as a person. Hey, God can use me. He can use you too. We can be His servants in carrying out his purpose wherever we happen to find ourselves. Amen.

"Lil Miss Biscuit's role in our lives: 1) Calm us down when we are stressed. 2) Stress us out when we are calm." ~ adapted from a dog joke

Yes and Amen. Praise the Lord. Good to be back here with you folks on this day, Tuesday, August 26, 2025. After sharing the artificial intelligence overview in yesterday's blog, well, it may have prompted the question as to whether I've been using AI to write my daily visits. The answer is a resounding no, however, I will be the first to posit how they may have been better had AI produced them, but, that would not be me. Right? There are already jokes circulating about the use of this newest flavor of technology. I read where one technical fellow remarked, "To keep your job safe from AI you had better be using AI to do a better job." That one is quite the conundrum. Another person said this, "I'm not worried about AI taking my job because only an idiot would do my job and AI is much smarter than that." I suppose that's a case of job security. My point? We have not heard the last about AI and whether we hear about it or not, it will slowly be invading nearly every aspect of human life. Meanwhile, back on the blogger farm, that's where they get planted and grow up each day, joking only, yes, back on the blogger farm, it is National Dog Day here in our country, the United States of America. Yes. I do recognize there is something to be championed every single day and most of the time whatever it recognizes has sponsors that profit from the recognition. You know. Like pet food companies, animal veterinarians, pet groomers, pet toy makers, and all things pet related. Having said that, Lil Miss Biscuit, well, she pretty much operates on this basis: Everyday is National Pet Day here at the ole blogger farm. Trust me. It is. It really is.

 

I thought I would post that little graphic as a PSA, Public Service Announcement. Just trying to be a good citizen and fellow traveler here on the so called terrestrial ball. If you do not read my blog until tomorrow you will need to adjust the number of sleeps indicated, as in, do the math. Time is getting away from us this year and it comes with a lot of wear and tear. Our eldest son, Chris, who will be 60 in October, he came over to install a new hot water heater. He is a very talented jack of all trades and master of many. He began his mechanical orientation at a very young age when at 7 or 8 he would take apart stuff that was broken and he would look at it and figure out how to fix it. Not me. I typically would break it more when trying to take it apart. I should know more. I was raised to know more. But, I missed out on the handyman gene and all things mechanical were difficult for me. At any rate, he replaced the hot water heater and I helped. Enough help to get all the family stirred up, including Uncle Bursy, bursitis, Cousin Arthur, arthritis, and brother-in-law, Tendy, as in tendonitis. The wife and I had previously purchased the new unit at one of the huge hardware conglomerate locations. We got it to the check out and they sent for a fellow we called The Muscle to help us load it onto the pickup truck. He looked like a stand-in for one of the old Tarzan movies, maybe in his early 20's. We, or mostly he, got it on the truck. I then used twine to tie it down. It weighed 160 pounds. When we got to the house I had figured out my approach to unloading it. The wife did not care for my approach which was mostly me manhandling it. As I was wrestling it to the tailgate, a fellow in a small auto parts delivery pickup did a u-turn and came back to see if he could help. He and I together got it off the truck. He announced that at 60 he often had issues with his knees and feet. I told him I was 79. He exclaimed, "Good for you!" My wife told him he was a God-send. I thought a good neighbor might suffice but she is right to thank God for any and all blessings. We got the new one in. It produces really good hot water. Looking at all of it makes me share this bit of insight: Any of these types of things, no matter what they are, keep this in mind, they are never easy. Never. Okay. I hear you. Some are wishing I would use artificial intelligence because it would probably be shorter. Rambling is my claim to fame. Thanks for tuning in and may God add His blessings. Amen.

"Success in creating AI, (artificial intelligence), would be the biggest event in human history. Unfortunately, it might also be the last, unless we learn how to avoid the risks." ~ Stephen Hawking, (1942-2018),Theoretical Physicist

Well hello and welcome to this day, the one provided to us by our Creator, and, we pause, on this day, Monday, August 25, 2025, to give Him honor and praise. Amen. I thought I would give you a little insight into artificial intelligence. Very little since I know very little about it, however, it will become more and more a daily part of future life here on the planet. It is likely being more widely used in areas like medical practice which does, in fact, impact all of us. Okay. Why talk about it? I have an very simple AI program on my phone. I do. I really do. It is named ChatGPT and essentially you can ask it just about anything and it will work on it. Enhance my photo: it will do it. Get research information a certain topic: it will do it. And, the one I will share with you today,Write me a story. ChatGPT is owned by the company, OpenAI and its major investor is Microsoft. It has a for profit component as well as a not for profit application, but, they do intend to make money off of their investment. My free downloaded application does basic stuff but I could get a more enhanced version if I chose to pay. I will not say that I will never pay but thus far I am just playing around with the free version. Okay. Here's a glimpse into the future. I opened the ChatGPT application and I uploaded a photo and I simply asked the application to write a short story about the photo. Ready? Set. Go!

 

~ Beneath the soft glow of twinkling lights and the gentle fall of snow, Mr. and Mrs. Claus sat side by side, their smiles warm enough to melt the winter chill. The North Pole was alive with holiday cheer, elves bustling in their workshop and reindeer pawing at the snow, readying themselves for the great journey ahead. But in this moment, the two of them found a rare pocket of peace. Mrs. Claus, with her kind eyes and comforting presence, had just finished baking a mountain of cookies for the elves. Santa, his red suit dusted with flour from sneaking too many treats, laughed as he recounted the year’s letters from children around the world. Before them, three perfectly wrapped gifts rested in the snow. They weren’t ordinary presents—they were the first three of the season, holding inside them the spirit of joy, kindness, and hope. Santa and Mrs. Claus knew these gifts weren’t meant for just one child, but for the whole world. “Shall we send them off?” Mrs. Claus asked softly. Santa nodded, his eyes sparkling behind his glasses. “Tonight, love. Tonight, the world will remember the magic of Christmas.” And with a wave of his mittened hand, the gifts began to shimmer with golden light, ready to travel across the globe, carrying with them the very heart of the holiday. ~

 

I don't know about you but I was a wee bit surprised with this coming out almost instantly based on the photo I submitted. I have no idea where artificial intelligence will take humanity but I do know for those who respond to The Gospel and put their faith in Jesus the Christ, we don't have to stay awake at night being concerned. We already see AI generated stories hitting all forms of social media. They are the truest form of fake news since they were created out of one desire: The one posting is after views, or clicks as they are called because they generate income as in money, profits. Another thing we are seeing is the manipulation of video like speeches where the person in the video says something entirely different than what they originally spoke. There's one right now of a sitting US Senator where this distortion has been produced and sent out all over the world. She did not say the things in the AI generated video. She said the opposite. But, AI was able to make her lips and her voice say the opposite things posted. Yep. There, eventually, will have to be some kind of law or a set of laws to govern the use of this powerful tool and the proverbial surface has not even been scratched. Again, trust in God, period. My guess is the kids asked to write short stories are going to be getting a lot better grades going forward. Ha! Until next time, may God help us, and may He also add His blessings. Amen.

"The only thing that saves us from the bureaucracy is its inefficiency." ~ Eugene McCarthy.

Good morning and welcome. Today is Friday, August 22, 2025, and, I thought for just a few minutes I would put on my curmudgeon's hat and let off a little steam. Here in the Woodlands area we are in the midst of what I would call roads and streets construction chaos. It's as if the spigot was opened at the same time and suddenly there's hardly anyway for one to get from point A to any other point. Okay. I will go the back way this time. Gotcha! Construction there too. I'm all for bicycle pathways that traverse alongside our highways but do they have to shut down the entire roadway to repave the bicycle path? Oh my. I find myself exhausted by the time I get to the freeway and then I wait 10 minutes on the feeder. I told the wife when I left the commute into downtown Houston I pretty much looked forward to no longer having to fight the traffic, but, alas, we fight it even to get to where our local body of believers in Jesus Christ gather to worship and hear God's Word. That we do nearly every trip except for Sunday morning. I'll let you guess why it's that way on Sunday morning. And, while I am at it, may I say this about it, whoever called The Woodlands one of the most livable places in the United States, well, I'm not sure what they had been smoking but I'm almost certain it was not barbecue. No. I'm not finished yet. Could, in the name of all that makes common sense a virtue, any of these projects have one iota of coordination between them? I know.They do often forget to mark their hands, left and right, and, on top of that, they have the evidence but my understanding is Louisiana purchased all of the slow men working signs. I must admit Louisiana deserves them but they could at least loan a few to our construction crews here in this area. If you think I sound critical, I'm a wee bit sorry, and, yes, I do know they are only doing their jobs. How about working the midnight shift? How  about staging the work so people can make it to work where they earn money and pay an overall average of 30% of everything they make to cover national, state, and local taxes? (That sounds low to me but that's what the most recent data shows.) Okay. I now remove my curmudgeon hat and say a prayer for all the workers that they would be safe. And, I do know they will not be injured while hurrying because whether they have their sign or not they've got it going big time from their hearts. Sorry. That just slipped out.

 

I did not intend to be harsh on those who work in construction. They have a job to do and they work for an outfit that specializes in overhead. I have to share my priority when I was directing a large corporate information technology department, computer and telecommunications. I wanted the 200 people in our group to understand that our job was to help each person in our company to be more productive, whether they wanted to be or not. It was not to deliver technology which we did on a regular basis. It was to serve the person using that technology. Every day in every way. My point? All projects including road construction projects should be designed with the individuals in mind that utilize those roads. Often, it appears the work itself is paramount. That my friend is a different emphasis. I rest my case. I rest my fingers from the keyboard, and, I rest my rant, and, finally, I rest in Him. Yep. That's where one finds rest. Have a great weekend which means Sunday is the first day of next week, so, make sure you honor the Lord by showing up where folks gather to worship. Enjoy. May God add His blessings. Amen.

"I have discovered that most people who tell me that they cannot forgive a person who wronged them are handicapped by a mistaken understanding of what forgiving is." ~ Lewis Benedictus Smedes, 1922-2002, was a renowned Christian author, ethicist, and theologian in the Reformed tradition. He was a professor of theology and ethics for twenty-five years at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.

You may have heard that sound yesterday. It was the exhale of air as peace returned to our little corner of the world. That's right. Lil Miss Biscuit got her grooming with all the trimming and now everyone can rest easy. It is now Thursday, August 21, 2025, and, we continue the journey here. I used to tell the leaders in the group I managed how they should breathe on a mirror now and then to see if they are still alive. Now, it may be time for me to follow that advice. They didn't care for that piece of motivational encouragement and I'm not too fond of it myself. Back to Lil Miss Biscuit, she is one funny little dog. She hates being left at the groomer. When they finish and I return she wants to punish me but she is conflicted because she is so glad to see me. She quickly overcomes her agitation, jumps up into my arms, and, all is forgotten. We could all learn a lesson from Lil Miss Biscuit. We could. We really could. It's not a slogan of live and let live. It's not a misappropriation of the verse from John chapter 8, "He who is without sin, let him throw the first stone." (my recollection of how it goes) No. Miss Biscuit forgives, forgets, and becomes in full fellowship without much ado. She does. Well, what about us? Do we hold on to stuff because we deserve to do it? Here's what thus says the Word of the Lord through the Apostle Paul, inspired by Holy Spirit God: "And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ." from the Holman Standard Bible. I read that and say okay, okay, and then I hit the forgiving one another, but, that's not as difficult to embrace as the standard or model given, forgive in the same way God forgave us in Christ. Really? You're kidding. Right? Nope. That's the admonition and the model, period. This may be the quiet BIGGIE that most of us are challenged by. Forgive as Christ forgave. I am first in line to know that far too often I hold onto a perceived slight or grudge. I'm good at it. Shame on me. How do we deal with it? Only with God's provision through His Holy Spirit. Okay. I've done enough preaching to myself, but, I will close with this: I'm not asking for one penny, no, not one. But, please send one thin dime to cover the weight of the postal money order. (Loose quote from an old vinyl record with a comedic bit on radio preachers by Dave Gardner.)

 

I needed to be concise today and I did intend that because we have old people choir practice later this morning. I know. They named it Legacy Choir to take the edge off , but, when I observe the gathering, sometimes fifty or more, it looks like a cotton field in bloom to me. As that first paragraph shows, I tend to get a little wound up from time to time, but, as the song says it's my party and I'll cry if I want to, well, it's my blog and I'll throw run on sentences out there as long as I want to. Just joking. And, thanks so much for those who take the time to read my daily visits. I get feedback and most of it is very positive. I do have residing here on these premises a type of chief critic and she knows how to shuck the corn when it comes to evaluating my writings. Even most of her feedback is positive as well. I'm just messing around. Y'all, yep, that includes everyone, seek God first and then get out there and have a great rest of today. May He add His blessings. Amen.

"The more I see of men, the better I like my dog.” ~ Frederick the Great, 1712-1786, Frederick II was the monarch of Prussia from 1740 until his death in 1786. He was the last Hohenzollern monarch titled King in Prussia, declaring himself King of Prussia after annexing Royal Prussia from the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1772.

Today is another day in the neighborhood and I bid you welcome to my world on this Wednesday, August 20, 2025.  It is groomer day for Lil Miss Biscuit. Groomer day by popular demand. The wife wants her trimmed up, the vet does too. Do what? I like her to be on the shaggy side like maybe she would be if she wasn't an inside dog. The dogs I grew up with never even heard the word groomer. I suppose they groomed themselves by wallowing in a nice area of dirt somewhere. I laugh to think Paw Paw Mac would have ever uttered, "Son, I think we need to get that hair out of that dog's eyes." When I was at the Vet the other day she politely asked this question, "I suppose keeping her shaggy like this is a choice?" What was I supposed to say, maybe, "She's in the witness protection program and I'm trying to disguise her appearance." I told the vet that was how I like it to which she replied, "Oh, I see." Her claws, that's right. She has claws. I know her genetics must be a mess because a mountain lion couldn't do as much damage as she can with her claws. The groomer guy, he clips them and he grinds them too. Yet, our 87 year old neighbor who came over and just had to hold Lil Miss Biscuit. She put a blanket over her and said she thought that would protect her. Not even close. Biscuit who is hyper and rambunctious got so excited she unintentionally scraped the neighbor's arm and it was bleeding. A lot. The wife too her to the urgent care and they wrapped it up. Now Lil Miss Biscuit is on the police watch list. Not really. The neighbor is fine and she still super loves Biscuit, our 12 pound mutt. (She is one of those people that all animals including wild animals love her and she loves them back.) So, I take her in this morning. "Sir, I need to see her rabies paperwork so I can update it in the system." I gave them the paperwork. "Anything new for this visit?" Yep. Give her some trimming since the whole world has voted and it is now time to get that hair out of her eyes!

 

I find it hard to believe what the cost of pet grooming is in today's world but I will tell you this: It ain't cheap. Those who track this industry tell us it is a worldwide market of $6.5 billion with 40% of that amount spent in North America. When they get through with Biscuit it will be around $100. Oh well, the bottom line is this: Biscuit loves us and we love her back. One of the things I love must about Lil Miss Biscuit, she makes me laugh. She does. I think she knows she does but since I'm a charter member of the senility club you might want to take my thoughts about it with a grain of salt. (The phrase "with a grain of salt" originates from a Roman concept and first appeared in the writings of Pliny the Elder around 77 AD. Pliny described a recipe for an antidote to poison that included a grain of salt. This led to the idea that any threat involving poison could be taken "with a grain of salt," meaning with caution or less seriously.) Now you know. I think that's enough for today. Have a good one and be reminded that God cares and He is working all things for good to those love Him and are the called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28) Until next time, may God add His blessings. Amen.

Deuteronomy 8:11: "Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day."

Hello and welcome. We here, or at least our household, are thanking God for the rain this morning on this Tuesday, August 19, 2025. I am fully aware that a shower here may mean something not needed elsewhere, but, we do need it here and we are thankful for it. Amen. I used to say things like I'm sure the water people in our neighborhood are happy we are able to give the meter some rest, but, since that may have reflected in a sarcastic manner of the one pouring out water almost on a day and night basis, well, it seems best not to mention the lady of the house in that particular context. Right? I thought you would agree. The photo above is from some 19 years ago. That would be yours truly pulling the wagon and the fellow in the tiny lawn chair is none other than our grandson, Alexander Benjamin or Alex as he is referred to these days. Alex has had some challenges in his sojourn thus far with autism and other health related issues, but, he was able to finish high school this past summer and is now enrolled in a local community college. We thank God for his provision in Alex's life to get him to this point. Alex will be 20 next month and perhaps we could retake that photo with him pulling the wagon and me sitting in the chair. That would be a hoot. Time has made a change and it doesn't slow down. For no one. We have our youngest grandson, Brady Darrell who is currently in Navy boot camp. I will have much more to say about him in a future blog. My point? I've earned these wrinkles. I find myself reminding more and more people about aging and how they are referred to in the closing words that Solomon shared in his summation from Ecclesiastes Chapter 12: Verses 1-7 from the New Living Translation:

 

"Don’t let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.” Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes, and rain clouds continually darken your sky. Remember him before your legs—the guards of your house—start to tremble; and before your shoulders—the strong men—stoop. Remember him before your teeth—your few remaining servants—stop grinding; and before your eyes—the women looking through the windows—see dimly. Remember him before the door to life’s opportunities is closed and the sound of work fades. Now you rise at the first chirping of the birds, but then all their sounds will grow faint. Remember him before you become fearful of falling and worry about danger in the streets; before your hair turns white like an almond tree in bloom, and you drag along without energy like a dying grasshopper, and the caperberry no longer inspires sexual desire. Remember him before you near the grave, your everlasting home, when the mourners will weep at your funeral. Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. Don’t wait until the water jar is smashed at the spring and the pulley is broken at the well. For then the dust will return to the earth, and the spirit will return to God who gave it."

 

Growing old is quite natural if you live long enough. Duh! It sounds simple but the message has to do with recognizing and responding to God before you get so old your faculties fail. That's a good reminder for me, at 79 years and counting, (not including the 9 months I spent living in my mom's tummy). And, it is a good reminder to everyone at an age where they can understand. (See Nehemiah chapter 8 where the crowd hearing the message is defined.) The younger the better and we all know most kids mature on different schedules. The younger the better, the sooner the better, and, even at an older age, get this truth: It's not too late to seek and find the Lord. If you are away from Him, come home. He awaits your return. (See the account of the prodigal son, Luke Chapter 15.) Okay. That's enough homework for us all. Have a blessed rest of the day and may God add His blessings. Amen.

I would have provided some photos of my wife's prepared meal but I feared the Food Network would sue me for insulting their programming.

My bride of nearly 61 years!

Good morning folks. Today is Monday, August 18, 2025, and I woke up this morning feeling fine. I say that because on Saturday I hit the three score and 19 years mark. I am a realist in noting that feeling fine is a relative term because feeling fine at 79 years plus 2 days is quite different than feeling fine at a much younger age. My wife. She is something else. From our first birthdays together back in 1965, (and even before while we were dating), we've done our best to make them a big deal. Back when we started there wasn't a lot of there there for us to work with, but, we did go out of our way as best we could. There's a country saying that has ended up meaning a great meal including great hospitality, one of two options: Put the little pot in the big pot, or Put the big pot in the little pot. People in the South use it both ways as an idiom to denote a special time especially when food is involved. That's just what our Southern cook did for me on Sunday along with about 15 others to celebrate my 79th rotation around the sun. Her menu, two pot roasts with carrots, potatoes, gravy galore, rice, fresh field peas, fried okra, fresh sliced tomatoes, corn on the cob, some of the best cornbread ever, ice tea and dessert consisting of an Italian creme cake with Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla ice cream. I obtained a diabetic concession day from the powers that be, (approved by me, myself, and I), therefore, I did two plates. Sorry. Even though George Washington most likely did not cut down a cherry tree, in my case, I cannot tell a lie because I had two plates. On most days I do myself a whole lot of resisting but here's the bottom line. Little pots, big pots, and everything in-between, every morsel of every bite was melt in your mouth delicious. Now you know why I have myself a conniption fit when I see an eatery declaring itself to feature 'home cooked'. That's like people saying canned biscuits are as good as mom makes. I'm not sure who to pity. Mom or the sadly uninformed biscuit eater. (I always wanted to use biscuit eater and I finally worked it in. Yay!) I cannot let these falsities stand, not on my watch, but, thanks again sweetheart for your many hours, that's right, the get up early and stay late kind of work that made my birthday so special.

 

I have a way of saying things that some folks don't appreciate. I tell my family that I am doing well and I will be doing well until I'm not, period. While the timing is in God's purview, it doesn't take an IQ much greater than that of a banana to know that at 79 that 'until I'm not' is closer for me than ever before. When you read today's edition, don't get me wrong. I am not against eating out. As long as they serve supper around 4 p.m. I am up for it. You do know that's a joke. Right? We eat out a lot. Therefore, when I tell you about the false flag portraying food as home cooked, I am someone who knows the difference. I do. I really do. What's that? I am just prejudicial towards my wife's cooking. Okay, you go ahead and sleep well believing that. Meanwhile, could y'all pass me another helping of the cornbread covered with field peas and fried okra. Thanks. May God bless each one is my prayer. Amen and Amen. 

"It is vanity to desire a long life and to take no heed of a good life." ~ Thomas a Kempis, 1380-1471, Christian Writer of devotional books including the popular, "Imitation of Christ"

 

Okay. I ran out of time yesterday. That's my story and at this point and time I'm sticking to it. Good morning and welcome to another day in my neighborhood. It is Friday, August 15, 2025, and I am one day away from hitting the four score minus one status. That's right. Lord willing. Seventy nine years. Who would have ever thought I would make it to that age? I certainly didn't. My dad, Cecil Sr., only made 31 years, his dad, Will Cuffie, made it to 71, my mom Lena made 93 years and her dad made 71. For the Abbott men, at least in the more recent history, I am hanging around longer. Those who have done some research into our family history trace back our roots to a George Abbot from Yorkshire, England who came across the pond and into Andover, Massachusetts, in 1640. The Abbot/Abbott name has an ecumenical background with the title Abbott typically heading a monastery or abbey. Gilda Radner, a talented comedic actress, left life early at the age of forty-three. Here was what she said about her life, "I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle and end." In my experience, her thoughts ring true when we consider life in this fallen world. However, for those who know God and more importantly are known by God as His very own, this life is but a prelude to our never ending existence in His presence. (Known by God, see Psalm 139 and Galatians 4) Perhaps in a slightly prophetic sense I happened to recently watch a black and white clip of the late Tennessee Ernie Ford singing his huge hit, 'Sixteen Tons'. Here's the chorus:

 

You load sixteen tons, what do you get?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter don't you call me, 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store

 

The sentiment from the Sixteen Tons song, my friend, is a rather gloomy but accurate account of a life lived with little expectation of getting out of all one owes. I am thankful for my time here. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for what little I've been able to accomplish in this life. I would be remiss not to mention the wife of my youth, what a blessing! Yet, none of these compare to that which awaits those who have truly put their faith and trust in God's Son, the One sent to rescue us, the Lord Jesus Christ. I could have lived a better life. I could have done more to serve our Lord. Yet, I remain thankful for all He has provided to me during my sojourn here. You don't know Him? Hey. Life is very unpredictable, so, I highly recommend you respond to God's offer of salvation. Today! It will change your perspective. I guarantee it! Amen.

" Here's a rule of life: You don't get to pick what bad things happen to you." ~ Rory Miller, American Writer

My dad, Cecil Al Abbott, Sr. 1923-1954

Have you ever wondered what life would be like had not certain things happened? Well, I have, and, from time to time I still wonder. Today is the one we all have and it is before us to get on with it, on this Wednesday, August 13, 2025. When I talk about wondering how things would have been for my mom and us six children had dad not left us suddenly, well, I am aware that our faith informs our understanding. Which, in this case, means only this: I trust in God and He is Sovereign. Some will immediately say that is one big cop out, but, believe me as someone who lived through what was to me an earth shattering experience, well, it is the only one that makes sense. I've heard a few folks say they think had a tragic circumstance not occurred for them and their family, they likely would have either ended up in the penitentiary or an insane asylum. Coming up with stuff like that may make someone feel better but it doesn't do much for me. Dad came down with the flu during Christmas time of 1953. He did not seek medical attention. (As a rule, unless it was really bad, it's just not something we did back in those days.) The flu turned into pneumonia, his lungs filled up with fluid and that led to a cardiac failure and he died. As a result our little clan became the epitome of pitiful. Shocked. Bewildered. Confused. And, when he breathed his last our world and everything in it underwent cataclysmic change. I was 7-1/2 when this happened. I've written quite a bit about missing my dad and how I went through a time where I repeatedly tried to conjure up how his voice sounded. I ended up being brought up under the example and teaching of my mom's dad, my grandfather, Paw Paw Mac. He and Granny Mac became important influences in my young life. But, even though I know that Romans 8:28 doesn't apply to only good things but it does apply to ALL THINGS and how they work together for good to those who love God and are the called according to His purpose. I do have clips or you might call them reels using today's vernacular of our family, mom and dad and the six stair step kids doing this, that, and the other. Not long memories, just short bursts. In the end, I'm left with Romans 8:28 and that, my friend, is not a bad place to start with, stay with, and end with. Amen.

 

Ready for Resurrection Day services, 1953.

Don't think for a moment I've not been blessed. I have been, way beyond anything I could have hoped for. This does not mean that our experience wasn't excruciating and painful. It was. I will not lie. It still is up and until this very day. However, God has been with us throughout our journey and we thank Him for His provision along the way. I would share the blessings I could think of, but, believe me, I would likely not remember them all. God has been good to me. I have not always been good to Him, but, He has been faithful. For this and so much more, I give Him the praise and all the glory, in Jesus Name. Amen.

"The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family." ~Thomas Jefferson

Top photo of some of our family who gathered and I was privileged to have a part in my sister Fran's homegoing service in April of 2023. The bottom photo reflects the recent homegoing of my wife's brother Cleon this past June and I was privileged to have a part in his service too. 

 

Family matters. God ordained it to be that way. This is what I am thinking about on this Tuesday, August 12, 2025. We hear the word dysfunctional tossed around a lot these days but I heard a preacher say this about being dysfunctional. He said all families are while some or more than others. How can that be? The program on radio is entitled 'Back to Genesis', and, that is where we find the first family. Was that first family dysfunctional? Mom and dad disobeyed God and everything changed. It's called sin and it has infected every person born on the planet with the exception of the Lord Jesus Christ. Eventually, the first couple had children and my guess is the parents did their best to instill into their two boys, Cain and Abel, what they knew about God and their testimony of how God provided for them when they became separated from Him. We all know how the story goes. The boys grew up and went to do their own thing. This sin thing was a reality to them and it is for us today. Through a series of circumstances, Cain in a jealous rage rose up and killed his brother, even though God Himself tried to reason with Cain and encouraged him not to allow hate to guide his actions. Dysfunctional? Big time! My point? Family is messy. Family doesn't always conform to an ideal. Family is filled up with people who make choices in life and choices always bring consequences, both good and bad outcomes depending on the choice made. Hey, I've been there and done that. Family. It's complicated but it's worth preserving, it's worth taking the time to be involved, and, it's worth doing whatever we can to pass down the values that were passed down to us. To be honest, I am a wee bit weary of only seeing our extended family at the graveside. Yes, yes, yes, family matters. 

 

Let me quickly add, it's even difficult getting my immediate family together these days. One of the enemy's, (Satan by name), most effective devices is to keep everyone too busy to do things like gather as a family. We are just too busy with too many other things to do, and the list goes on and on. I have previewed something I am going to write about one day and it has to do with our busy lives. There's even a concept and it's tagged with this moniker, the Principle of Busyness. It's general defined in this way: The cultural tendency to equate being busy with productivity and success, even when that busyness might not be leading to meaningful results. If I make it to Saturday I will celebrate my 79th year of sojourn here on the planet, therefore, let me just say this about that. I know all too well what it means to be occupied and busy, especially in pursuing my work duties, often to the neglect of my family. Often. Too often. Therefore, I can tell everyone not to be so busy doing stuff that you miss the most important, that which will live on after you are gone. Yep. It's a little late for me except I can hope to help some to avoid my mistakes, and, I am still kicking as they say, therefore, I can do what I can do today. Or, as the song says and it speaks to my procrastinating heart, 

Tomorrow, tomorrow!
I love ya tomorrow!
You're always
A day
Away"

 

Mostly joking. We do need to make family a priority today even as God ordained. Amen and Amen. 

John 10:29, "My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand."

Welcome one and all to today's episode. You are seeing it for the first time and that's the same experience I had when I was putting it together. Funny how that works, and, often I am as surprised as anyone when I read what I wrote. Okay. Enough of that. It is Monday, August 11, 2025, and it's a good day to pause and recognize the truth about our very existence. From the Book of Job we read this about God: Chapter 12, Verse 10, from the English Standard Bible: "In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind." It's best that we acknowledge this truth and give Him thanks for the life He has given to us. I do thank Him for my life and I hope you will do the same. The photo above was put together to reflect on the beginning years of our just completed 15 year run as Santa and Mrs. Claus, beginning back in 2009. Many of the children in the photos above are now in college with some already out in the working world. It has been our desire to bring a smile in our portrayal of the Jolly Ole Fellow and his wife. We had thought to hang it all up but there were just too many requests, therefore, we decided to make a go at it, one more time. We do love being with the children. We always have. The preparation work in making the transformation into Santa is quite taxing, the work itself involved is just that, work. I know. There are some who think it must be the easiest job in the world. My response says give it a go, then, we will talk. And, dealing with a few people, usually the moms and dads, mostly the moms, does require Santa to be prayed up. Fortunately, that's typically the exception. In the end, it truly is all about the children and according to my wife I reach out to little ones whether I'm in Santa mode or not. We already have several bookings including a couple of out of town projects. I need to have a meeting soon with the participants in my doing this work. They include Uncle Arthur, cousins Bursy, and Tendon, along with Ty a really good friend. In case you missed it those stand for arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, and Tylenol. It will take a village to get this done and I am always thankful for Mrs. Claus who encourages me, drives for me, and reminds me not to worry but just be happy. 

 

Speaking of making others smile, I thought maybe our Lil Miss Biscuit might bring a little cheer. I will say it. She causes me to laugh out loud. Not Lol, buy really, laughing out loud. That Lol designation has become very much overused and while it originally did mean laughing out loud, in today's world it is used to convey everything from amusement to sarcasm. But, when I say Lil Miss Biscuit is funny. I mean it. She makes me laugh. Out loud. I think that was actually around before the abbreviation was around, but, in our world today there's not so much of wholesome laughing out loud. A lot of that is because of the difficulties people face in life. I can get down and out too. I can. I really can. I try not to but our stinking thinking at times causes us to lose our perspective, especially, as those who have their trust guaranteed by faith in Jesus, the Christ. The Aussies like to say, "No worries." We believers should be the ones who live with a no worry attitude. How? The Apostle's Paul inspired take, from the Berean Literal Bible, Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious about nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." Reading that verse is good. Quoting that verse is commendable. Living that verse is tough but when we do live it, it is the reflection of who we are in Christ. No one said my thoughts would pass the discombobulation test. It's just a blog and after all is said and done, who in their right mind could be angry for long with Santa Claus? Take care and have a blessed rest of today. May God be with us all. Amen.

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." ~ Robert Breault, American Operatic Tenor

Welcome to Friday, August 8, 2025 where I am thinking this morning. Dangerous? Yep, but it does remind me that much of our lives as a couple, soon to be 61 years, has centered around family gatherings. Sadly, as we have gotten older these gatherings are no longer as much of a focus due to many reasons. Our children are grandparents now. Their children have their own lives and while we still do Christmas with as many as we can get to come, we no longer do all the other special days together. I'm not complaining. This is how it works in life. I am so thankful that we do enjoy the memories and I hope you do too. I've chosen to provide a blog I wrote back on December 22, 2007, my first year of blogging 18 years ago. 

 

Flashback, December 22, 2007, enjoy!

 

That's right! I was at the Super Duper Center at 7 a.m., this morning and back home by 9:30 a.m. I had my list and I had my shopping game face on and I got in, got it done, and got back out, with little to no interference or trouble. That's not to say I didn't see quite a few people there walking around like they were in a daze. They must have not gotten the memo about making sure I had the place to myself.

I guess it is something about it being so early in the morning or maybe only morning-people (which I am!) were there because everyone seemed to be in a really good mood. The goods were in disarray and there were the normal area supervisors barking out orders like someone had died and left them in charge, but on the whole, it wasn't that bad. My approach was to cruise up and down the aisles forth and back before choosing anything. I did this for about thirty minutes in the toy department so I could get an idea of exactly what was still on the shelves. I hate it when you are always finding something more to your liking and then having to take the item in your basket back to where you originally found it. Okay, I know most people just throw it out wherever they happen to be but I only do that when I can't find the place where I picked it up. That's happened a few times but I usually try to be a shopper with integrity.

I would have liked to have avoided anything with a 'Made in China' label on it but to tell the truth I don't think my grandchildren are ready for wooden clothing. I was able to diversify some by finding stuff made in India and Pakistan. I still remember when the founder of this huge conglomerate once had a 'Made in the USA' campaign, but things haven't been the same since he passed away a number of years ago.

This concludes this phase of the 2007 Christmas Celebration Project. On Monday I will be visiting the grocery store to prepare for our annual steak cookout for Christmas Day. Yeah, that's what we've been doing over the past twenty five years and we all look forward to it. There will be huge thick beef steaks for our three sons and one of the daughters-in-law, and I reckon this year I will have a small one, and a few medium ones for others and we will do charbroiled chicken for those who enjoy that better. We'll also have a garden salad, baked potatoes with all the stuffings, lightly seasoned mushrooms, some pinto beans, and fresh baked bread. Of course there will be all kinds of desserts appropriate for the holiday and we are so looking forward to having our bunch together next Tuesday.

I may be sixty plus but I still get excited as we anticipate family, food, and fellowship. We also know that God has provided all that we have and it is because of Him that we are able to put together this special gathering. I do hope as well that you are making plans to enjoy this special time! ......More later.

"When my blood runs black as the moonless night, and my heartbeat sounds as the Warriors march, only then may you say, I’ve had enough coffee." ~ Anonymous

My grandfather used to say this: I feel like I've been pulled through a rat hole backwards. I am not that clear on how that works logistically but I think maybe I get just a wee bit of what he meant by it. Well, that's that and I now turn to the business at hand, today's edition brought to you by Louisiana Community Coffee, on this Thursday, August 7, 2025. Yes, you would be correct. I do not receive any remuneration from the Community Coffee company, but, many, yes, many folks over the years have told me I should. Even though I have been going here and there this morning I was still able to enjoy three cups of the Dark and Bold, Intense Blend precious liquid. The key is to end up with about two inches of liquid* in the cup and that first sip will set you free, are something like that. Some ask if it leaves an aftertaste but I only wonder if they mean for an instance or for many minutes, the answer would be a resounding YES! I used to grimace, (maybe that's why my face turned out like it did), when I would see my Paw Paw McMillan in the early hours of the morning pour the syrup like coffee left from the previous day into a cup and drink it down. It did cause him to shake his head and shoulders like a horse waking up. Waste not was the habit of those that came through the Great Depression. Okay, it's confession time again. I do that very thing now. I do. I really do. "Oh look I left a couple of swallows in that cup." Sure you can feel it in your toes but it's enough to shame forever those who go into one of those coffee salon shops and order one of those mixed offerings with many ingredients, and, they then have the nerve to call if coffee. No siree! It may be something but it's not coffee. Bill O'Reilly wasn't available, therefore, I gave you the no spin on that one. In less than two weeks, if the Lord provides, I will mark my 79th year plus the 9 months in my mother's womb, so, perhaps it may be a tad late to tell me the coffee I drink is not really good for me. That was not a rant. Just sayin....or just sharing.... as they say back home. Hey, this somewhat a free country. I say somewhat because I just thought of how much we paid for our home and the land it is on, but, the taxation authorities still control my ability to live in it. Think about that one. Back to being free. You are free to like whatever you like. I like Community Coffee. I'm not mad at others because they don't drink Community. Because, after all, we do have folks who don't know any better. Go ahead, say it with me, "You know what I mean, Vern? *(I finally found a small k-cup coffee maker that will allow you to put in the exact amount of water you want added to the coffee. One cup at a time. Yay!)

 

Yes. I carry my coffee maker and my Community with me when I travel.

I will leave it at that for today. Don't forget to remember to remember that God has a very special love for those who are His own, the true seed of Abraham. (Galatians 3:29) Until next time, I bid you Godspeed and pray that He will add his blessings. Amen and Amen.