Birthday Tribute

Well, today is his birthday. If I count right, my brother is 68 today. 68 years ago, this guy stepped into the world. Of course, I, being the younger, didn't get to know him until 2 years later, so I can roast and toast my Big Brother.

Clyde,

I remember the baseball games in our back yard. You were always able to hit the ball, while I swung and swung, and never could.

I remember riding the ponies, getting brushed off under the apple trees, both of us laughing our heads off while our ponies ran back to the stable.

I remember swimming, and diving. You could do all the fancy dives, I was a chicken to try, but I think I could outswim you.

I remember the day I slammed the door on your foot and tore off a toenail. You were chasing me thru the house with a wet towel!

I remember that on Saturday mornings we would walk the mile to Bruce's to watch cartoons on TV since we didn't have one.

I remember going halloweening with all the girls in the neighborhood. You fell into a sunken grave as we walked thru an abandoned cemetery. (While being pelted with buckshot from an irate farmer...all we did was fill his mailbox with smashed pumpkins.)

I remember when you were in the play, "The Family Nobody Wanted."

I remember how you played basketball for our school, hurriedly changed into your wool band uniform at half time to entertain as drummer with the band, then back out on the floor to finish the game.

I remember the big beer party we had one weekend when Dad and Mom were gone. The sheriff came and we saw him coming and everyone scattered. Including us who paddled out in the canoe to the shadowed fringe of the lake and sat there throwing beer into the lake so we wouldn't get caught with it. The sheriff left and never came back. (Must have been a false alarm)

I remember playing the organ at your wedding. Just before your bride came down the aisle, the lights were turned off. My light on the organ went off, too. So I had to wing the wedding march.

I remember you getting knocked in the head by a door at my wedding, and had a big, red line down your forehead in our pictures.

I remember you calling me late one night to announce the birth of your daughter. I had only been married 3 weeks, and when you asked, "what are you doing" I told you. You said, I'll call ya back."

I remember you being so sympathetic when we lost our first child.

I remember how we shared our good times with our families as long as they lived close by.

I remember the day I had to call you and tell you Mom was dying.

I remember how caring and understanding you were when my beloved Tilly was so sick and then passed.You and Sis-in-law were here for me every minute. Taking time away from your jobs and family to come to my rescue.

Now, I am looking forward to making more fond memories with you. But today, even though you're in TX and I am not, I want to wish you the best birthday ever. No one, dear Clyde, could ask for a better big brother than you!

Many Happy Returns,

Peace,
JE

I Believe...

That we are responsible for what
We do, no matter how we feel.

It's All About Me!

For lack of anything better to blog today, I stole this from Mellodee over at Mellodee's Musings. It never hurts to get better acquainted, does it?




My cell phone? Tracfone, 19.99 at Walgreens, I buy minutes for it every 90 days.

My spouse? Gone, but certainly not forgotten

My hair? Had what little I have buzzed the other day.

My mother? A true lady and I miss her every day

My father? Strict, good provider, and missed, too.

My favorite possession? Family photographs

My dream last night? About cupcakes and messy icing. Go figure that one out.

My Favorite drink? caffeine-free Diet Coke, Margaritas, Iced Tea

My favorite room? My bedroom, and great room both are my favorites.

My hobby? Crafting, reading and blogging. Walking when the weather is okay

My phobias? I hate the wind, and I am afraid of dying alone.

My favorite day of the week? All of them, now that I'm retired!!

My favorite breakfast? Anything on IHop's menu, or Kolaches

My biggest wish? I wish for my daughter to find a "better" job and happiness and contentment.

My day? Cold, gray, and breezy.

My evening? On the computer and reading!

My usual attire? Jeans and a shirt

My Friends? Treasures beyond compare

My life? Seems to be passing me by right now.

My mood? Calm: How well can you say Prozac!

My car? 2006 Chrysler Sebring

My favorite stores? I love Big Lots, Dollar Tree, Kohl's, Hobby Lobby, JoAnn's, Michaels, and bookstores! ( Thanks Curley for the boost.)

My favorite color? No surprise here, Red!

My last crying spell? I don't remember, but they are fewer than in the past.

My most frequent place to go? Church, MacDonald's, grocery store

My very best friends? Alan, Steve, Tim, Curley, Lynn, Susan

My favorite place to vacation? Ludington, Michigan, and Arlington, Texas

This is probably boring and useless, but, oh well! LOL!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #25

The Broken Blue Line by Connie Dial: This is the second novel by Dial with the character of Mike Turner, an LAPD detective. Corrupt cops, Mexican Mafia, and a little romance thrown in make for a good read.
I was impressed by Dial's writing style. It's bold and "out there"letting us know that she knows her stuff. She should after serving as a police officer on the LAPD for almost 27 years. She can really talk the talk.
Though no as fast paced as the novels I usually read, this one was worth the read.

Happy Reading,

JE

Springing Forward!

Hey all you people out there. I hope you didn't forget to turn your clocks forward an hour. I stayed up late reading and watching TV and when I went to bed at 1:54 am, it magically became 2:54am. And when the alarm went off this morning, I realized that I should not have stayed up so late. I lost a whole hour. Oh well, I can take a nap this afternoon.
I think it's interesting to watch the expressions on people's faces when the arrive at church on the first Sunday of DST, and realize that church is about over instead of just starting. Last year, I talked to one lady that said she got there, and realized by looking at the full parking lot that something was amiss. She checked the time on her cell phone, and realized that she had neglected to turn up her clock and so she just went home. I probably would have done the same thing.
Well, off to church. Everyone have a great day. It's going to be daylight longer!

Peace,
JE

I'm back! Sure enough, one of my friends said she forgot to reset her clock last night, woke up at 8:40am, remembering that she had to teach a Sunday School class full of youngsters at 9:00am.. And she wasn't late!

I Believe....

That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

Thursday Musings

It's another gray day out. I really am craving sunshine and warmth. I am depressed. I have another ear infection. This one, the third since September, is bad enough that it called for going to the ENT specialist and having that "suction thingy" done on my ears. My "good" ear, the one I count on the most, is the worst. Bad enough that the infection had forced the tube in my ear for drainage out into the ear canal. What a gross mess. Of course Dr. W. had to show me the grossness! I wanted to puke. So now, I am on antibiotics (oral) and drops, and a new prescribed med for allergies. I also need to find a way to TOTALLY keep water out of my ears. I have tried several kinds of ear plugs, but they still leak. I am trying using a shower cap, but that's like wearing a condom (sort of) and takes the pleasure out of having the warm shower water beating on my head and shoulders. What an analogy that was!!!
I am tired of staying home all the time, but have no place to go. I am shopped out, and don't need anything to speak of. Of course, if I went shopping, I would find something and spend money needlessly that I can use for groceries and bills.
I am ready to do some more redecorating, but I need to have the windows open to paint, so that's on hold until warmer weather.
I am already bored with the television lineup going to reruns. What's with that already? I don't watch much, and have watched reruns of my favorite shows the last two weeks.
I sucked at Jeopardy last night. I usually do pretty well, but know little about Greek mythology, and can't identify today's rock stars at all. They had a category that you had to take a given number times 5, divided by 2, and add 3. I couldn't even do that in the time allowed.
I am finding that I am carrying my feelings around on my shirtsleeve and that isn't my usual attitude. Usually, I am pretty forgiving and carefree, but lately...NOT!
I guess I need to go crawl into a hole and chill out until I get things straightened out in my mind. Of course, when I get the infection out of my system, and possibly can hear what is going on around me, I just might feel better.

Peace,
JE

What I Read #24

Lost Angel by Mike Doogan: The first in the Nik Kane series. Nik Kane was once a detective of distinction, then came his fall. Now, an ex con and a recovering alcoholic, Kane is looking for a place to belong. He is hired by a fanatical religious group called "Rejoice" to find one of their young members, and daughter of an elder, Faith.
In searching for Faith, Nik finds obstacles, both human and spiritual that make his looking more difficult.
Taking place in Alaska, this first novel by Doogan is a winner.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #23

The Border Lords by T. Jefferson Parker: More action and adventure with the Mexican Drug Cartels. Sean Ozburn is deep undercover for the LASD. The longer he is working, the more iratic his behavior becomes. He becomes a rogue cop. About the same time, Sean's wife Seliah notices that her behavior has become uncommon and scary. It is up to DEA agent Charlie Hood to find out what is going on with Sean, and at the same time, try to stop a shipment of automatic pistols from being spread around the city of LA.

There was something about this novel that made me uncomfortable, yet compelled me to keep on reading. I cannot put my finger on just what it was, but it was there lurking in my subconscious. It wasn't an easy read. Lots going on, and lot of characters to remember. Not the best novel on my list, but I am not panning it, either.

Happy Reading,
JE

A Thought.....

Life today doesn't make any more sense than it did on day one!

Ugh! More snow!

Can you believe it. All day yesterday it rained. Then in late afternoon, it became hard rain. By hard, I mean it was pellets, and then it was snow. This after a few days of thaw, rain, sunshine and spoiling us by teasing.
Well, Prof and I were shopping in nearby city. We couldn't believe that we were coming home in snow when we went in the rain. Yes, we really could believe it, but didn't want to. It snowed all evening and didn't stick. The ground was too warm. But, when I got up this AM for church, the roof on my garden shed was white. Then I looked at the ground. Yes, once again it was white. The temp is now hovering around 30 degrees F and the sun is shining sporadically, so the snow is melting as we speak. (Or writing and reading.)
Why am I writing this? Just venting about the Midwest weather once again. For all of you who live in the warmer climates, see what you are missing. And for us here in the "snowbelt," we just keep on hoping for Spring to come soon! Very soon!

Peace,
JE

Today's Groaner

Did you hear about the fellow whose whole left side was cut off?
He's all right now.

I Believe.....

That you should always leave loved ones with Loving words.
It may be the last time you see them.

Today's Groaner

Police were called to a day care where a three-year-old was
resisting a rest.

I Believe...

That it's taking me a long time
To become the person I want to be.

Gas (or should I say Gold)

I got this from Mel over at Mellodee's Musings. Our gas here in the Midwest today is $3.43 a gallon. If it keeps on the rise, I will be staying home even more than I am now,(if that's even possible) or taking public transit around town. As soon as the weather warms up, I will get out the trusty Schwinn and pedal my a** all over town.
This is a case where the rich are getting even richer and us poor blokes are getting poorer by the minute. Where will it end?
And SSI didn't go up this year because the consumer P I allegedly didn't go up. Well, you can tell Mr. O doesn't have to pay for his own gas! Or groceries, or utilities!
I swore I wasn't going to get started...so I will shut up now.

Peace, (it might help the world situation)
JE

What I Read #22

Skin River by Steven Sidor: If you are a fan of gruesome murder mysteries, this is the novel for you. Buddy Bayes, a former Chicago thug, is trying to find a new path for his life by moving to Gunnar, Wisconsin. He buys the "Black Chimney," a run down bar and grill, remodels it, and begins a new life for himself.
Just when he thinks everything is going along fine, his past rears up and shows its ugly head. That along with a mysterious serial killer in the area, makes for an interesting, fast paced read.
This is author Sidor's first novel. This guy has a real talent for presenting the weird and bizarre!

Happy Reading,
JE

I Believe...

That you can do something in an instant
That will give you heartache for life.

What I read #21

The Prostitutes' Ball by Stephen J. Cannell: Another fast-paced Shane Scully mystery. Shane has a new partner, Sumner "Hitch" Hitchens. Hitch is not only a detective, but also a Hollywood celebrity in his own right, having sold a story for a movie. Shane and Hitch are caught up in a triple homicide, which leads to finding more bodies linked to cold cases.
Cannell did a fantastic job of putting Shane and Hitch together. Their life styles and policing styles are entirely different, yet they gel into the perfect detective team.
This the latest Shane Scully mystery by Cannell. It was published in late 2010. I am wondering if it was his last work.

Happy Reading,

JE

Face Lift

My friend Curley and her son TallGuy were in to visit today. TallGuy is the prince of all things computer. The poor guy only has dial up at home because they live so far out that any cable network never reaches them and their disc service for high speed is exorbitantly expensive. He brought his laptop, logged in to my wireless and went to town. He created my new blog background, tweeking here and there, fuzzing, changing colors and so on. I had showed him a piece of scrapbooking paper I had that I really liked and he did it. he knew where to go to get all the http stuff and so on and look what happened.
This look is so ME. Music is my passion and red is my favorite color so what more could I ask for. Besides, Curley, TallGuy and I went out for lunch at a local Asian place, and had a good visit. What a nice day.
Thanks Curley for finishing a project for me, and a BIG thank you to TallGuy for the new blog face lift.

Peace,

JE

The Date

Those of you who have read me for a while know that last summer I received a phone call, (go here if you need to refresh your memory). It was from a lady in a "sort of" nearby town whom I had never met. She had met my brother and sister-in-law recently and they suggested that she give me a call. She caught me unawares, but after talking to her, and calling my brother for confirmation, I thought I should probably give her a call. I never did. I received 2 letters from her over the course of the summer and fall. I didn't respond. About a month ago I decided that it was time to at least be courteous and respond to her letters.(after much heckling from my own personal "peanut gallery.") I immediately received a letter back (containing a Valentine). She was going to be in my town on such and such a day and wanted to know if I wanted to have dinner with her that evening before she went home. I was under no obligation whatsoever, and it was completely up to me. I was to call her and let her know either way. So, I called her. She wasn't home, so I left a message saying I would call her back. Before I had a chance to call back, she called me. We made arrangements to meet for dinner at a local restaurant on her route.
We met in the parking lot. We went inside and had a nice dinner. We visited. Several times she mentioned that "we" should do this or that together. I felt pushed. I also felt outclassed. She is a well educated high school English teacher. She teaches advanced students. She talked about things I have never heard of being done in a classroom. As the evening progressed, I felt more and more uncomfortable. It was a first date, I understand that. But I felt nothing!
Now what do I do? I haven't called her or written to her. She is a nice person, but I feel that she is not for me. Oh, the decisions we have to make, even as adults. I guess I could ask my 17 yr old grandson for dating advice...NOT!

Peace (really???)
JE

What I Read #20

Shavetail by Thomas Cobb: A shavetail by definition is a young mule that hasn't yet been trained to haul heavy loads .
Private Ned Thorne is considered a "shavetail" in this dramatic post Civil War novel. He is only seventeen, but has things happen in his past that made him leave Connecticut and join the US Army. Ned is transferred to the outer reaches of the Arizona Territory. Once there, he is faced with becoming a man in a hurry. Obediah Brickner, a muleskinner with the army, is the perfect antagonist. His taunts toward Ned can either make Ned a stronger soldier or break his spirit.
Set in the desolate, but beautiful desert country of the Southwest, this novel is not like your typical western. Cobb has a way with words that paints mental pictures for the reader. His prose style is intellectual, yet easy to read. He has written one other novel, Crazy Heart. If Shavetail is an example of Cobb's talent, he should be writing more.

Happy Reading,
JE

I Believe...

That true friendship continues to grow,
even over the longest distance.
Same goes for true love.

Groaner of the Day

When you've seen one shopping center you've seen a mall.

I Believe...

That no matter how good a friend is,
they're going to hurt you,
every once in a while
and you must forgive them for that.

Today's Groaner

Local Area Network in Australia: The LAN down under.

Today's Groaner

You are stuck with your debt if you can't budge it.

What I Believe...

I Believe...
That we don't have to change friends if
We understand that friends change.

Snow!

Last night the weather man was predicting snow and high winds. Well, I scoffed, yet when I looked outside at 5:03 AM this morning when the phone rang telling us that Kiddo's school was on a two hour delay, I saw that it was indeed snowing and blowing. So, I just turned off the light, rolled over and went back to sleep. Awakening at 9:30am, I noticed that the sun was shining brightly and it was done snowing. When I walked out of my room, I could hear Kiddo talking from the attic. (online with a friend playing a video game..ah the wonders of technology) Alas, the roads were so bad this morning, that school both in the county and in town was canceled.
Kiddo donned his coat and hat and went out and shoveled off the walks for the postman. He came back in rosy cheeked and cold. He said that the wind was ferocious out there. The teaser we had last week was just that. A teaser. I was out running around in a sweat shirt and my old fishing hat. Now, even if I really wanted to go outside, which I don't, I would need ye olde winter coat, hat scarf and boots. Damn Midwest weather.
And to add to my misery, my brother just sent me a note stating that it was 82 at his house yesterday. (And my sister-in-law is skiing in Northern Michigan...she must be nuts!) LOL!
I am going to Texas on the 26th of April and staying a month. I don't care how hot it gets while I am there. I am ready for it!
But, as I sit in my great room looking out, I do have to admit it is beautiful!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #19

On The Grind by Stephen J. Cannell: One word sums up this Shane Scully mystery, and that word is WOW! Shane gets fired from the LAPD. He seeks police work in an LA suburb called Haven Park. There he falls into a world of racism, graft, and corruption, both in the PD, and in the political regime of the town. From high speed chases on city streets, to shoot outs on the desert, this novel holds the reader in suspense right up to the very last page.
The only detail I found unbelievable, and mind you, I am no expert, but the physical beatings some of the characters take, are seeming physically impossible to sustain and still be alive!
Again, I feel badly that author Cannell is no longer with us. When I have read all his novels, I am sure I will feel a sense of loss. Cannell was a master at story telling. On the Grind is no exception!

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #18

Case Histories by Kate Atkinson: Three separate cases, a missing child, a murdered husband, and a stabbing of a secretary all seem unrelated. Until PI Jackson Brodie gets called upon to try to find the missing child.
A thoroughly confusing and yet, well written (if that's possible) web of intrigue leads Brodie into a mire of jealousy and abuse.
At one moment I was laughing at some antics of one of the characters, the next I was scratching my head with mystery.
Author Atkinson writes with a tongue-in-cheek wit along with a workable knowledge of crime and how to twist the two together to make for an entertaining read.

Happy Reading,
JE

I Believe...

That just because two people argue,
It doesn't mean they don't love each other,
And just because they don't argue,
It doesn't mean that they do love each other.


Note: I received an email of "I Believes" from a relative that is a real sweetheart. I intend to share some of them here with you all.

Groaner of the Day!

With her marriage, she got a new name and a dress.

Groaner of the Day

If you don't pay your exorcist you can get repossessed.

Let It Be Said...

'The happiest of people don't necessarily have
the best of everything;
They just make the most of everything they have.

Page Designs 2

I know that the previous blog sounds entirely stupid now. I wrote about the gray gloomy design I was using. Then I went into blogger and made some changes, so then the gray gloomy design was no more. Which made the whole whiny blog even more ridiculous. So, maybe it would be a good thing to just ignore the entire mess. Except the part where I encouraged Curley's son TallGuy to go into the blog design business. He's a whiz at computer stuff, and a guru of patience when it comes to all the http and and other puter lingo. So I still think he could make a go of this as a sideline business. He could call it "TallGuy Productions."

JE

Incidentally, I didn't know that you could go into blogger and do all sorts of cool stuff. It's fantastic what you find if you're brave enough to click on a few "unknown" buttons!

Page Designs

Help! I am sick and tired of this page design. I keep changing colors (it's gray and gloomy out today, thus the gray gloomy color) and I change fonts. But I would like a design that is truly ME. I know there are designs that I can buy, but I don't want to pay for one. I am too tight with my $$ for that. I also know there is a way to design my own, but I am not computer language savvy enough to do that. I look at other blogs and wonder where they get the neat designs they use. Then, I look at some, and think that mine looks pretty good in comparison. I found a couple of music images on Google images that would make good backgrounds on a blog, but they are probably copyrighted and unusable.
So, if any readers can help me, or are willing to talk (plain English, please) me through the steps to create my own design, let me know.
Hey Curley, TallGuy should be able to help me with this. Just think, he could create blog designs and sell them and make a living and wouldn't even have to get dressed or leave his warren! Tell him I said to "get right on that." LOL!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #17

Hollywood Tough by Stephen J. Cannell: Shane Scully, his wife Alexa and their son Chooch are caught up in gang wars, drug distribution, and film making. This leads to an all out war in the high desert around Scottsdale, Arizona; far and away from Shane's or Alexa's jurisdiction.
As I said before, I am back-reading Cannell's novels. This one was just as exciting and adventure-filled as the first one I read. I keep wanting another and another!

Happy Reading,
JE

Groaner of the Day!

Show me a piano falling down a mineshaft and I'll show you A-flat
miner.

Groaner of the Day!

A will is a dead giveaway.

Groaner of the Day!

A dentist and a manicurist married. They fought tooth and nail.

What I Read #16

Authorized Personnel Only by Barbara D'Amato: There are pickpockets hitting the big fancy stores in downtown Chicago. There is someone murdering the homeless in downtown Chicago. Many of the detective squad are ill with E Coli virus that they contacted at a dinner put on by the Chicago Police department. So, patrolman Suze Figueroa and her partner Bennis, are assigned as "temp detectives" and are out to solve the murders, and catch the pickpockets!

The Chicago-Sun-Times says, "every new D'Amato is worth waiting for." And they are right. I will search my library shelves for more. This was an exciting, yet easy read. The characters were human and the story was real. I give it a 4 four star rating.

Happy Reading,
JE

Groaner of the Day!

The batteries were given out free of charge.

Groaner of the Day (What Wisdom???)

The professor discovered that her theory of earthquakes was on
shaky ground.

Wisdom of the Day (Groaner!)

When the smog lifts in Los Angeles, U.C.L.A.

What I Read #15

The Viking Funeral by Stephen J. Cannell: My, what a rip roaring good read this was. Another Shane Scully suspense, thriller at it's finest. Shane goes undercover to catch some rogue cops hell-bent on ending corruption in the ranks. Only the rogue cops go bad to the bone. Shane very nearly gets to visit the grim reaper, but NOT yet!
It makes me sad to know that Cannell passed away last September. What a talent he had. The literary world will feel his loss for years to come. Do read this series if you get the chance. My library doesn't have all of them, so I am reading them hit-and-miss. Maybe I will find them in a good used bookstore in the city the next time I am there.

Happy Reading,

JE

Wisdom of the Day

A thief who stole a calendar got twelve months.

Music?????

Okay, I know that I am from a different generation and probably some of you think I live under a rock or in a cave, so let's just forgo the span of time thing!
I TRIED to watch the Grammy awards last night. Note, I said "tried." I was in awe of the special effects that the singers used. Bright flashing lights, fire, dancers, etc. Act after act, beautiful choreography, though you had to be about 13 to keep up with them. My, the agility. Then I really started listening to the singing. And, now I know why they use special effects! They CAN'T sing! And the costumes! Why, I saw more skin on the stage last night than I would have if i had opened a Victoria's Secret catalog.
I can remember the Grammy's when the performers simply walked out on stage, grabbed a Mike and sang. They had either canned background, or their band. Choreography was "in sync" with each other, and the music was actually music, not noise like I heard last night. Remember the "Temptations?" Now those guys could dance and sing.
Lady Gaga won! Her acceptance speech was too long and monotonous! I was embarrassed for her. She looked stupid and sounded it! I will now refer to her as Lady Gag-ya!
So, since Kiddo, Prof, and her boyfriend were all in my great room watching TV, and had no place else to watch, and they seem to like this sort of "legal porn," I went to my room, read some craft magazines, then switched to my novel and read until midnight.
Oh how I miss the days of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Whitesnake, Heart, Meatloaf, Joe Cocker and the rest. Now that was music.

Peace, (well maybe)

JE

Words of Life

Life is a great and wondrous mystery,

and the only thing we know

that we have for sure

is what is right here right now.

Don't miss it.

~Leo Buscaglia

Wisdom of the Day

When fish are in schools they sometimes take debate.

Food for Thought

A fellow blogger sent me these words. As I read them and understood their full meaning, I decided it is like another set of commandments to live our lives in today's world.

1] A Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a "steering wheel" that directs the right path throughout.


2] So a Car's WINDSHIELD is so large & the Rear view Mirror is so small? Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. So, Look Ahead and Move on.


3] Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.


4] All things in life are temporary. If going well, enjoy it, they will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry, they can't last long either.


5] Old Friends are Gold! New Friends are Diamond! If you get a Diamond, don't forget the Gold! Because to hold a Diamond, you always need a Base of Gold!


6] Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart, it's just a bend, not the end!


7] When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.


8] A blind person asked St. Anthony: "Can there be anything worse than losing eye sight?" He replied: "Yes, losing your vision!"


9] When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you.


10] WORRYING does not take away tomorrow's TROUBLES, it takes away today's PEACE.

Wisdom of the Day

To write with a broken pencil is pointless.

What I Read #14

Montana Man by Barbara Delinsky: I have read other Delinsky novels and this was not what I thought it was going to be. I hate to even admit I wasted my time reading it. It was chick-lit at it's finest, I guess. I didn't know Delinsky wrote this kind of fluff.
Lily and her five week old daughter are snowbound in a cabin in the woods with Quist (we never learn his last name.) They fall madly in love in three days time, but it takes 200+ pages for them to admit it to each other.
Again, this was an early work by Delinsky, sort of a beating hearts/heaving bosoms type novel, that didn't close the bedroom door and left little or nothing to the imagination. How do people write this stuff? Oh well, it's over and done with. Now, on to something more exciting; like a slasher, murder/thriller.

Duped, but still happily reading,

JE

What I Read #13

Tainted Evidence by Robert Daley: Karen Henning, Assistant DA in NYC is given a major case. Lionel Epps, a low life thug, shoots and wounds 5 NYC cops. It is up to Karen to convict him. In trying this case, she encounters mass corruption and politics.
This was another legal thriller by Daley, a former NYC deputy police commissioner. he tells it like he's lived it. He probably has!

Happy Reading,

JE

Tagging (I think)

I just got home from a quick trip downtown. Real quick since the library, which was my destination, was closed for inventory. Anyway, I had to wait on a train (so what else is new in this town) and enjoyed watching the boxcars go by with the artistic graphics spray painted on the sides. I think in today's world this defacing of private property is called "tagging." It was interesting to watch the different styles of artwork, be it sloppy single spray can daubing, or the more sophisticated lettering with lots of personality. I don't know where these budding artists hang out, but they should be working in the shops that do "air brush" art. There is a real talent being wasted out there. Well, maybe not wasted, because it kept me entertained for a few minutes. The train happened to be moving pretty fast, so I couldn't always read what was written, just a combo of letters. But, you know, I didn't see any "bad" words, either.
Is there a section of the Guggenheim dedicated to this?
Peace,
JE

Word Filter

Found this on line. Seems to be as appropriate today as it was in Socrates' time:


In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?"

"Hold on a minute," Socrates replied. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be good idea to take a moment and filter what you’re going to say. That’s why I call it the triple filter test. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"

"Well, no," the man said, "actually I just heard about it and…"

"All right," said Socrates. "So you don’t really know if it’s true or not. Now, let’s try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?"

"Umm, no, on the contrary…"

"So," Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about my friend, but you’re not certain it’s true. You may still pass the test though, because there’s one filter left-the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?"

"No, not really."

"Well," concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true, nor good, nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"

Peace,

JE

Words to Live By!

I recently received this from a very dear life-long friend. (It is from an article by a lady in Ohio that turned 90.) I don't know the publish date, but whenever it was, it still holds true for all of us that are growing older.

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, take that first small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

What I Read #12

White Sister by Stephen J. Cannell: From the writer of my favorite TV series, Hunter, comes White Sister, a gripping, fast paced mystery thriller. Detective Shane Scully is on a case involving the murder of another LAPD officer, which also involved the serious wounding of Scully's wife, Alexa.
From the shady streets of LA, to the glitzy offices of famous "rappers," to the magical strip of Las Vegas, Shane breaks a few laws, as well as a few heads to find the killer or killers, and the one who seriously wounded the love of his life.
This was my first read by Cannell. It is one of many in the Shane Scully series. Now I want to go back and start at the beginning. After reading this novel, it's plain to me why Cannell's TV series, which include, The Rockford Files, The A-Team, Silk Stalkings, and The Commish, were all highly rated and long running.

Happy Reading,

JE

What I Read #11

Deep Pockets by Linda Barnes: Another in the Carlotta Carlyle mystery series. In this story, Wilson Chaney, a Harvard professor, is being blackmailed. To stop this, and not let his innermost secrets come out and jeopardize his tenure at Harvard, Chaney hires Carlotta to find the blackmailer.
Of course, in the process of doing her duty, Carlotta calls on her tenant, the weird Roz, as well as her cohort, Gloria. Action abounds, coupled with a few dead bodies, as well as graft and corruption. A typical Barnes read, Deep Pockets will keep you entertained. Curl up with a cup of your fav coffee or tea, and enjoy!

Happy Reading,
JE

Note: Cover shown here is from the paper back printing. I read it in hardcover. The cover is entirely different; the story is the same!

What I Read #10

Runoff by Mark Coggins: It seems that there was some tampering with the ballots during the mayoral election in San Francisco. Enter PI August Riordan. He is hired by Leonora Lee, the reigning Dragon Lady of Chinatown, who thinks the Chinese candidate, Mr. Chow, should have won. She wants Riordan to find out who is behind the fraud and report back to her.
During his investigation, Riordan is confronted by many obstacles, mostly human, and bodies start piling up. He is assisted by his gay, cross-dressing friend and associate, Chris.
All in all, this was a rollicking, good read. It was funny, and well written. It was my first August Riordan novel, of which there are many. This was #4 in the series. I think I will check in at my local library to another.
Happy Reading,
JE

Snow!

I can think of a lot of offensive four-letter words, but right now, none of them is as offensive to me as S-N-O-W. I've had enough. We have gotten so much of the white stuff that I can't remember what grass even looks like. I don't think we've seen bare ground since Thanksgiving.
Right as I type, my area is under a winter storm watch. Last night we got another 5 inches of the stuff, and right now we are in the middle of a "lull" with another wintry blast headed our way destined to smack us up the side of the proverbial head beginning sometime this afternoon and hopefully ending tomorrow evening. I have even heard the words "historic amounts of snow" coming over the TV. I hope the weatherman is so wrong.
Along with this, Kiddo's school was canceled once again. The poor kid will probably graduate sometime in the middle of the summer instead of late May! My snow blower refuses to start, even though I put a new spark plug and new gasoline/oil mix in yesterday and pulled the starter cord until my back hurts. Prof called the guy with the snow blade that removes snow for me if it's a lot, and he will send one of his crew to me sometime today. They are very busy.
Mother Nature is reeking havoc on us right now. There is a positive, though. The melting runoff from all of this will fill the reservoirs around us making the fishermen happy. That's fine for them, but I don't fish and I don't shovel. I think I need a cup of coffee and a good book, cause it looks like I sure ain't goin' anywhere today!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #9

Peace like a River by Leif Enger: Not the kind of novel I usually choose, Peace like a River was highly recommended by a friend. Told in "first person" narrative, it is the story of Reuben Land, his younger sister, Swede, and his older brother Davy. It is a story of faith and perseverance. At times it is funny; at times it is heartbreaking. But throughout the entire book, the closeness of family, and the faith that holds them together is closely interwoven in a story that will leave you with a smile, and a feeling of gladness that you took the time to read it.
Happy Reading,

JE

What I Read #8

Gangster by Lorenzo Carcaterra: A saga of epic proportions spanning the life of Angelo Vestieri. Told in the voice of Gabe, who was taken in and raised by Angelo, Pudge, and Ida the Goose, all who were gangsters in NYC.
Now, in the 1990's, Angelo is lying in a hospital, dying, we assume of old age, and Gabe is sitting at his bedside reminiscing about his life with Angelo with Mary. Mary being a mysterious lady from Angelo's past.
This brilliant novel by Carcaterra, though fiction, captures the down and dirty life of the underworld back in the days of Capone and Bonnie and Clyde. Scary, yet entertaining, Gangster will hold your interest until the very last page.

Happy Reading,
JE

A "Get Acquainted" Blog

Since I have some new readers, and they would have to dig pretty far back in my blog to find out much stuff about me, I thought I would steal this from Maggie and publish some facts about myself to help new readers get better acquainted with me and what makes me tick.

1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT?
I have a scar on my left hand where my dad was reaching across the table to cut my meat at the same time I reached for the A-1 Sauce.

2. WHAT IS ON THE WALLS IN YOUR ROOM
My grandparents very ornate marriage certificate circa 1902.

3. DO YOU SNORE, GRIND YOUR TEETH, OR TALK IN YOUR SLEEP?
Snore…at least that’s what my kids say!

4. WHAT TYPE OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO?
Country and gospel.

5. WHAT TIME WERE YOU BORN?
4:30 PM on Mother’s Day, 1945

6. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW?
Another vacation to Texas.

7. WHAT DO YOU MISS?
My late wife, and having my house to myself.

8. WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION(S)?
Materially, probably my car.

9. HOW TALL ARE YOU?
5'9"

10. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC?
No

11. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK?
No

12. THE LAST PERSON TO MAKE YOU CRY?
I can't remember


13. WHAT'S YOUR WORST FEAR?
The prequel to dying, (pain and suffering)

14. WHAT KIND OF HAIR/EYE COLOR DO YOU LIKE ON PEOPLE YOU'RE ATTRACTED TO?
At this stage in my life, I’m not going to be picky

15. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF PROPOSING?
I can't see myself proposing at all....

16. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINK?
coffee

17. FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING?
Cheese and onions

18. IF YOU COULD EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Dutch apple pie

19. FAVORITE COLOR OF ALL TIME?
Red

20. HAVE YOU EVER EATEN A GOLDFISH?
nope, and I never intend to, either

21. WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEANINGFUL GIFT YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED?
The first Valentine Day my wife and I were dating, we each secretly had our picture taken for each other. Ironic, and priceless.

22. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH?
Nope

23. ARE YOU DOUBLE JOINTED?
No

24. FAVORITE CLOTHING BRAND?
Croft and Barrows

25. WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE FEMALE/MALE CELEBRITY?
Julia Roberts

26. DO YOU HAVE A PET RIGHT NOW?
No, and I don’t intend to get one…ever!

27. WHAT KIND IS IT?
N/A see #26 above

28. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING?
No. I've loved and lost, and I don't want to do it again!

30. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED?
13

31. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES?
Gray, silver, combination of both

32. FAVORITE QUOTE?
“Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?”
Or “Beer is God’s way of saying He loves us and wants us to be happy.”
Or “ It is by chance that we met, by choice that we became friends.”

33. FAVORITE PLACE?
Eastern shore of Lake Michigan

Yuck Update

I think I just might survive this thing. My ears are still stopped up and I can't hear worth a crap yet, but the rumbling and shifting of the liquid behind my ear drums is better. My nose isn't running as much, but my eyes are still scratchy.
I can hear the train whistles two blocks away now; yesterday nada. I can also hear the clicking of the keys on the keyboard as I write this. So, all things considered, maybe I am getting better.
I still don't want to do much, and I break out in a sweat if I get too active, but this too shall pass.

I will continue with my reading and weaving. I have a project going on a lap loom that is slow going, but will be quite beautiful when I get it finished. I told Curley the other day that I may get it done by 2015! At 3 rows of weaving per inch, and the finished project is supposed to reach 63 inches, I have a long way to go. I am at exactly 24 inches now. But it passes the time while I don't feel too hot and it is so cold and nasty outside. This is one year when Spring just can't come too soon.

Peace,
JE

What I Read #7

Calder Storm by Janet Dailey: Another in the Calder saga by Dailey. Trey Calder, heir apparent to the Calder fortune meets pro photographer Sloan Davis. After a whirlwind courtship, the two are married. What happens next is embroiled in the old feud between the Calders of Montana and the Rutledges of Texas. I haven't read a Calder novel for a long time. This one was just like the rest of the ones I had read, though. Only the times have changed. Very predictable, and I knew exactly what was going to happen at the end, even before it happened.
I thought I wanted a change from the thriller, mystery stuff that I had been reading. I was welcoming a change, but now I think I want to get back to something a little less sappy!
However, the area where this book took place is the exact area I visited two years ago in Montana. I was in Miles City and in the surrounding countryside. I will have to give author Dailey credit. Her descriptions of the Big Sky country are right on! It has to be the most hauntingly beautiful territory I have ever seen.

Read on, dear readers,
JE

Feeling Yucky!

I woke up yesterday with a stuffy nose. And my eyes matted some. And my ears plugged up. I blew my nose all day long. The plugged ears came and went. By evening, I though maybe it was just a sinus thing going on with the severe change in the weather. NOT! This morning I feel like crap! I have a cold. A winter cold. I feel like there is fluid behind my ear drums, and it shifts now and then. Sometimes I can hear well, then it shifts, and I can't hear squat. Sometimes, all I can hear is my heartbeat in my ears. My eyes are puffy and feel scratchy, and my nose is running. I am almost out of Puffs, and I have no cough drops. I feel miserable.
Now that the whining part is over, I will go pour myself a HUGE cup of coffee, grab my book and recline in my favorite chair...and alternately read, nap and feel sorry for myself.

Peace,
JE

What's on Your Fridge?

I think it's interesting to go into other people's homes and notice what is on their refrigerators. I think you can tell a lot about people by this. For instance, I was at a home recently that had nothing on their fridge door. These people have several children and grandchildren. Where was the art work? Where were the photos? No post-a-notes: nothing! As I looked around their lovely home, I also noticed that there were very few family pictures, and no knick-knacks to speak of. I surmised that these two people must live very regimented, orderly lives.
I, on the other hand, took a gander at my own fridge door. There I found the following:

• Kiddo's 2010-2011 school schedule
• Kiddo's January school lunch menu calendar
• A picture of Curley and her family that has to be at least 3 yrs old
• An out-of-date call tree and email list for my choir
• A recipe in my late wife's handwriting for cheese spread
• A snowman shaped magnetic grocery list
• A magnetic hook with a fly swatter hanging on it. (a good place cause I can never find it.)
• A guitar shaped magnet with "Elvis" on it. A souvenir of Graceland
• A business card for our local transit company with phone number
• A take out menu for our local Pizza King
• A picture of my self proclaimed "goddaughter" and her family (2 yrs old)
• A Christmas card from my son and his wife announcing the impending arrival of my granddaughter who is now almost 2 1/2.
• And a plethora of clippy magnets awaiting new stuff to be posted.

So what does this array tell me. That I care about people, and that I obviously don't mind having a cluttered fridge door. It is a reminder of all that is good now, and was good then. My life is not regimented and orderly, but it sure is fun!

Peace,
JE

• 
  

What I Read #6

Nowhere to Run by Robert Daley: From NYC to the French Riviera, author Daley takes the reader on a rolicking, sometimes dangerous journey. Jack Dilger, a NYC cop, retired, is hiding out from drug lords until they can be extradited from Columbia to the US. He chooses the a small village on the coast of France to hide in. There he meets Madeleine. Together, they cruise the Med, fall in love, and attempt to corral the bad guys.
Another fine mystery by the author of Prince of the City. Read it. I think you'll like it.

Happy Reading,
JE

*Note: I see a pattern forming here. A lot of novels about drugs and cartels. Is this where our world is heading?

What I Read #5

Apaches by Lorenzo Carcaterra: The "Apaches," A group of former cops, forced to retire due to injuries received while on duty in NYC, get together to find a missing 12 year old girl. What they find is a drug cartel led by one notorious lady. The Apaches are determined to bring her down!
Author Carcaterra knows just how to take hold of a reader and not let go. I was up until the wee hours of the morning finishing this spine chilling, sometimes gruesome thriller.
Note: this is not a book for the faint-of-heart!

Happy reading,
JE

What I Read #4

Inside Out by Barry Eisler: A number of graphic video tapes of torture of infidels have come up missing. Every alphabet governmental agency is after not only the dangerous tapes, but the person or persons who stole them and are threatening to make them public.
While my hat is off to Eisler for the research and knowledge that went in to making this story believable, I found trying to keep track of who worked for who against who very tasking. It made the story less enjoyable for me, yet I can't say it didn't hold my interest. I just had to work harder than I normally do to understand all that was going on.
Happy Reading,
JE

Who is Snopes and who cares what they think!

I received a caution warning from a friend about something that you should watch for in parking lots. I believed it; it sounded like it made sense to me. A way a carjacker could get you to stop and get out of your car. So I bulk e-mailed it to a group of my senior (and not so senior) friends. I thought that they all go to Walmart and other places, so they might as well heed this warning.

One of the "friends" I sent it to sent me back a message. She told me that she checked this info on Snopes and they said it wasn't true. Then she again reiterated that this was not true. Now I ask you, how in the heck does Snopes (who ever "they" are) know every darn thing? Are they some amazing group of nerds that scope out every little detail of everybody's lives, check every occurrence that happens every hour of every day? I think not. Give me a break.

And furthermore, what kind of friend would send back a terse note saying that I was basically a liar? I felt like a little boy having his hands smacked for stealing cookies! It really pissed me off. I guess I just have to consider who it was. She is basically a nice person, yet one that certainly doesn't have enough to do with her life, and one who is pretty opinionated. So, I will excuse her. This time. (Maybe she'll be the one to get carjacked, Snopes or no Snopes!)

Funny thing is, one of the news channels, MSNBC or CNN recently reported on this very thing happening in a California Walmart parking lot. Of course, everything happens in California. Maybe that's where Snopes is located!!!!!

I need a Prozac!

Peace...(later maybe)
JE

What I Read #3

Whiplash by Catherine Coulter: Another FBI suspense thriller. Agents Savich and Sherlock are hot on the trail of a murderer. Aided by Agent Bowie Richards, the plot thickens as, one after the other. employees of a pharmaceutical manufacturer either come up missing or are found dead.
Again, Coulter manages to grab the reader's interest and hold it in another in her continuing FBI series with our two favorite agents.

Happy Reading,
JE

Too Many Clothes and Laundry!!!

One of the most horrendous of life's jobs is doing laundry. I equate it to having a vasectomy or a root canal. I hate doing it! In accessing this problem, I perused my closet. I definitely have too many clothes. I need to institute the "one in one out" rule in my clothes purchases. If I buy a new sweater, it's never to replace a worn out one; it's because I liked the new one and I still like the old one, too. Same with jeans, shirts and dress clothes. I just like clothes. (And shoes, so Prof gets that naturally, if the "shoe gene" can be passed along.)
I am still wearing shirts I had 20 years ago. They are comfy, and still good, even though they are a little frayed around the neck and there are holes where the cuffs are sewn on.
So now that we have determined that I am a pack rat when it comes to clothes, it is obvious that I can go several weeks without doing laundry. Even though I may look a little shabby as the optimum laundry time approaches, I can still be clean from the skin out.
This leads to mountains of laundry. I just keep piling it up. Then, suddenly I am down to the last pair of skivvies and have to do the dreaded laundry. Which usually amounts to 6 or 8 loads! For one person!
So, yesterday was laundry day, finally. I did it all. All 7 loads. I have it washed, dried, folded, AND put away. I decided to try something new. I put a white clothes basket, and a colored clothes basket in my room where I usually pile all my dirty stuff. I am going to presort this way. And I swear that when a basket is full I will tote it to the laundry room and wash it. I swear!
And while I am grousing about laundry, I have to admit that I hate my laundry room. It's long, narrow and crowded. It's not a very big room, has no place to fold clothes, and my washer and dryer are along one end. They are a stacked unit, which is convenient, because there is no room for a side by side pair. There's no other way to arrange the room to make it more pleasant to be in, so I have to use it the way it is. It's the only room in my house that foresight was not used.
But this room does have a lot of light. One wall faces the back yard and is all windows. So, maybe I should just spend time doing laundry and birdwatching at the same time. Or rabbit watching. And I should quit complaining.

Today I Feel Stupid!

I got my household natural gas bill a few days ago. Man! Was it ever high. I discussed this with a few friends who use the same gas company and they told me that I should call NIPSCO (Northern Indiana Public Service Co) and find out why my bill was so high because none of theirs show a marked increase!
So this morning, I called NIPSCO and talked to customer service rep. Dawn, who was as nice as could be to me. She explained that I had subscribed to buy my gas from an outside source, not NIPSCO. She gave me the phone number of that source. She also explained that right now NIPSCO is selling natural gas at about 42 cents per therm, and I was probably paying about 75 cents per therm from my outside source.
I remember one day, in August of 2009 that a young man came to my door and talked to me about how much money he could save me if I subscribed to his plan. At the time, NIPSCO gas was very expensive, and I could lock in a certain amount per therm with his company. Being naive about such things, I thought it sounded like a good deal, and I even took the stuff inside (I did not let this guy in my house) and discussed it with Prof for a few minutes. I admit she was skeptical, but I could see that right now it would save me a few bucks, so why not try it.
Now, almost two years later, I find out that NIPSCO's gas is down to a reasonable rate while I am locked into this other plan for another YEAR! If I choose to withdraw from their plan, I pay an exorbitant penalty.
I feel really dumb...no, stupid for doing this. I caution any other person who is faced with this decision to avoid signing anything! I feel that this young man took advantage of me. Though, I am in possession of all my faculties, so I guess I am the only one to blame. Right now, I am feeling put upon, dumb and like someone has really taken me "for a ride."
I have learned a valuable lesson. Don't give lip service to anyone who comes to your door trying to save you money. Slam the door in their face and go on about your business.
I think these outside companies prey on senior citizens. It's a story as old as time itself. I have seen it happen to my grandparents, and now it has happened to me. I'm mad as hell right now, but mostly at myself!

Peace,
JE

What I read #2

Line of Vision by David Ellis: Marty Kalish is accused of murder! Did he really commit the crime or was he set up? Enter high powered criminal attorney Paul Riley. He is a raging-bull guy with a no-holds-barred attitude. Will he get Marty off?
This debut novel by Ellis is a real page-turning legal thriller. I will be looking for Ellis novels on my local library shelves.

Happy Reading,
JE

And Then it's Winter!

Note: This is not my original work. I received it via email from a cousin who was very dear to my late wife. She is the only one from that family that still keeps in touch with me. She is a very classy lady and I admire her greatly.


You know, time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the
passing years.
It seems just yesterday that I was young, just married and embarking on my
new life with my mate. And yet in a way,
it seems like eons ago,
and I wonder where all the years went.
I know that I lived them all...
And I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and
dreams...
But, here it is..the winter of my life and it catches me by surprise...
How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my youth
go?

I remember well...
seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people
were years away from me,
and that winter was so far off that I could not fathom it or imagine fully
what it would be like...
But, here it is...my friends are retired and getting gray...they move slower
and I see an older person now.
Some are in better and some worse shape than me... but, I see the great
change...
Not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant... but, like
me,
their age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks that we used
to see and never thought we'd be.

Each day now, I find that just getting a shower is a real target for the
day! And taking a nap is not a treat anymore...it's mandatory!
Cause if I don't on my own free will...I just fall asleep where I sit!

And so, now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the
aches and pains and the loss of strength,
and ability to go and do things that I wish I had done but never did!!

But, at least I know, that though the winter has come, and I'm not sure how
long it will last...this I know, that when it's over...its over....
Yes , I have regrets. There are things I wish I hadn't done ,,,,,things I
should have done, but indeed,
there are many things I'm happy to have done. It's all in a lifetime....

So, if you're not in your winter yet...let me remind you, that it will be
here faster than you think.
So, whatever you would like to accomplish in your life please do it quickly!
Don't put things off too long!!

Life goes by quickly. So, do what you can today, as you can never be sure
whether this is your winter or not!

You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of your life...so,
live for good today and
say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember...
and hope that they
appreciate and love you
for all the things that you have done for them in all the years past!!

'Life is a gift to you. The way you live your life is your gift to those who
come after.
Make it a fantastic one.'

LIVE IT WELL!!---- ENJOY TODAY!!!!-----DO SOMETHING FUN!!!----
BE HAPPY!!!----BE THANKFUL!!!

New Year...New Look!

I think some times change is good. Therefore, I am changing the look of my blog for a while. Let me know what you think!

I Resolve!

Since beginning the new year, I want to do it right! So, I am making resolutions that I know (read think) that I can keep!

1. I resolve to make sure there is plenty of TP in the bathroom BEFORE I need it.

2. I resolve to continue to procrastinate about almost everything.

3. I resolve to not resolve!

Happy New Year!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #1

Fallen Idols by J F Freedman: Walt and Jocelyn Gaines are archeologists given the responsibility for the unearthing of a Mayan ruin in Central America. Jocelyn is accidentally murdered by a band of anti-government insurgents. The couple's three adult sons want to find out just what happened. The three of them get involved in their own investigation and what they finally uncover is disturbing and mind blowing.
Once again, Freedman captures the reader on the very first page and doesn't release him or her until the very last word.

Note: I intended to finish this book before the new year so I wouldn't end on a book number 113, but with it being New Year's Eve and having a bunch of young people gathered eating snacks and having a bit of cheer, I just had to party a little bit. So, hopefully the number 13 will bring me luck. It always has; I was born on a 13th day, which happened to also be Mother's Day!