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Only my writing

mcalchrc

Updated: Aug 11, 2024



I decided to put all my posts here and no barnstorming. I will try to write something every day.





February 27, 2024

 

What to write! So much has happened that it’s hard to start writing something.

  I read today that our country is on the upswing, partly due to the surge in immigration. These skilled moms and dads come from many nations, especially South and Central America. These immigrants are highly motivated to better their lives, saving to start businesses, working long hours, and quickly becoming skilled workers who work their way up the food chain.

  Many look at these immigrants as interlopers trying to take their jobs. That is far from the truth. These millions of immigrants are fueling our economy into high gear.

  Being a Spanish American today means being part of a diverse and vibrant community that has contributed greatly to the cultural and economic fabric of the United States. Spanish Americans have a rich history and heritage that spans centuries, and they continue to shape and influence American society in many positive ways. As with any community, there are challenges and struggles that Spanish Americans may face, but they are also resilient and resourceful in overcoming these obstacles. Overall, being a Spanish American today means being part of a proud and dynamic community that is making a significant impact on the world around us.

Ric

 

 Feb 19th 2024

 

I love writing freely as no one reads this; I love it this way because it relaxes me.  

   Today, I’m terrified, afraid of how this world is being, I guess, molded by some unseen power (maybe alien). Who knows; it is probably going this way: We, the alien power ( whoever this may be), are using force to subdue the earth, it’s not conquering by (we're going to come down and rain holy terror on this planet), but we will be using a cloaked satellite to beam a wicked ray of sorts that will turn every person and country into enslaved people only being lead by this alien force. The unseen force will cause every country to doubt its place. Some countries will seek to conquer and destroy by force or subversive means, perhaps by computer, and some countries will cause people to question their democracy and listen to pure evil by people who want to lead. People will question their religion and their connection to the people they love. Poverty will increase due to just plain not caring about anyone but themselves and the riches they hold dear. My message, if anyone was reading this is to mostly myself, to hold to my values for good and try to stay the course, voting for good people to lead me and helping where I can, maybe it’s just helping an old lady struggling to load heavy groceries at Costco…..just anything to thwart this evil ray which is trying to turn me into an ugly citizen of this world.

That’s my rant today, Ric.


Jan 27th 2024


 

Let's hope that the contributions from the United States and other nations can bring some much-needed relief to the long-suffering Palestinians.

  The U.S. continues to attack the sites that are lobbing drones and missiles at the shipping and even navies of a coalition of nations patrolling the route to the Suez Canal, which cuts over 1/3 of the trip without sailing around the southern end of Africa. All’s fair. If they are firing at us, we will fire back and attack the missile site. For your information:

  .The Suez Canal was built by a French engineer named Ferdinand de Lesseps in 1869. The canal is an artificial waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, allowing ships to bypass the lengthy and hazardous trip around the southern tip of Africa. The canal is one of the most important shipping routes in the world, facilitating the transportation of goods between Europe and Asia, and it remains a vital artery for global trade today.

 



January 10th, 2024


Snow in Tri-Cities caused a two-hour delay at school, giving parents enough time to prepare for the day. The kids were thrilled to enjoy the snow without missing school. Snow days are a great opportunity to bond with family and friends.


 It’s expensive to move into these retirement residences, it’s taking most of our fixed income. However, we’ll have savings and sales from the house and other sources. It's sad to go, but what else can we do? And we can always live with our kids if we don’t like it.

 

Leaving the home you've lived in for years and transitioning to an assisted living home can be a difficult decision. It's understandable to feel a range of emotions during this time, including sadness, uncertainty, and even some excitement. However, it's important to remember that assisted living homes can provide a safe and supportive environment for seniors to thrive in. With the right care and support, this transition can be a positive step towards a new chapter in life


Ric


New Year

January 5, 2024

   When we have a bad day, taking a step back and reflecting on what's causing our stress or frustration can be helpful. Some ways to cope with a lousy day include talking to a trusted friend or family member, engaging in a relaxing activity like reading or yoga, or practicing mindfulness techniques to help manage stress and anxiety. It's important to remember that everyone has bad days, and asking for help when needed is okay.

  I looked up mindfulness, and it said this: Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment without judgment or distraction. It involves non-judgmentally paying attention to our thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations and can help us manage stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, yoga, or other activities that encourage us to focus on the present moment. Research has shown that mindfulness can positively impact mental and physical health, including reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing overall well-being. Some of this is getting enough sleep.

  


December 29. 2023

 


 

I think I don’t have much to discuss; hmm.

   Mount Everest is melting fast, and climbers going to the summit are experiencing a vastly different climb with the snow melting. The authorities are contemplating moving the base camp elsewhere, and they are worried this could affect the sda who visit the camp and climb.

 

About Nepal:

Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, known for its majestic mountain ranges, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. The country is home to eight of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers and mountaineers. Nepal is also renowned for its diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and snow leopards. The country boasts a unique and colorful culture, with a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism that is reflected in its architecture, art, and festivals. Visitors to Nepal can explore ancient temples, trek through the Himalayas, or soak up the natural beauty of this incredible country. Grammarly AI

   Switching topics: Israel had admitted to using the wrong size of the bomb when they wiped out a city block in a refugee camp. They killed 86.

Trump is now off the ballot in Maine as well as Colorado. `

This is just a short post.

Ric




December 27, 2023

 

 

(I’ve already started my diet ahead of my New Year's resolutions; I fast in the morning, eat lunch and dinner, and then don’t eat after 8:00. I will lose 20 pounds!) and these are my words.

 

    It's that time of year again - the time for setting New Year's resolutions and making positive changes in our lives. One of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight and get in shape, and you've decided to get a head start on your goals by starting your diet early. But why do you think this year will be different? Why do you believe that your diet will work this time around?

 

First of all, it's important to understand why diets fail. Many people try to change too much too quickly, or they set unrealistic expectations for themselves. They might try to cut out entire food groups or drastically reduce their calorie intake, which can lead to feelings of deprivation and ultimately cause them to give up on their diet altogether. But you're taking a different approach this year.

 

By fasting in the morning and eating balanced meals for lunch and dinner, you're creating a sustainable plan that you can stick to in the long term. You're not depriving yourself of the foods you love, but you're also not overindulging. By setting a realistic goal of losing 20 pounds, you're giving yourself something to work towards, but you're not putting too much pressure on yourself.

 

Another reason your diet might work this year is that you're committed to making it a lifestyle change, not just a temporary solution. You're not just trying to lose weight for a special event or to fit into a certain outfit—you're doing it for your health and well-being. You're recognizing that your diet and exercise habits majorly impact your overall health, and you're making a conscious effort to improve them.

 

Finally, you're not going at it alone. You might be making choices about what you eat and when, but you have a support system in place. Whether it's a friend, family member, or online community, having people to hold you accountable and cheer you on can make all the difference.

 

So, why will your diet work this year? You're taking a realistic and sustainable approach, committed to making it a lifestyle change, and have a support system in place. With these things in mind, you're setting yourself up for success and making positive changes that will benefit you for years. 

 

  Germany is 2nd in supplying military support for the Ukrainians; I’ve read that they have increased their factory’s output to ramp up their military aid and homeland defense.

Merry Christmas, one and all.

 

Cold, cold this morning; no snow, sorry kids.

   Up early and ready to post.

I’m listening to the faraway train whistle on the main line from Pasco to Portland. It's possible that the train and horn sound could be interpreted as a sad reminder of the loneliness many experience on Christmas day. However, this can also be an opportunity for individuals to turn to the true meaning of Christmas and find comfort in the love of the Savior. In moments of hardship, relying on a higher power can bring greater humility and a deeper appreciation for the blessings in life. One of the things we can do this Chriry some of these suggestions.

 

- Personalize Christmas traditions

- Give back to the community

- Understand why Christmas music makes us happy

- Learn about Christmas around the world

- Host a sustainable Christmas party.

 

   I asked myself this morning where does Christmas come from?

And found out this info:

The origins of Christmas can be traced back to ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the Germanic festival of Yule. In the 4th century, the Catholic Church began to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25th, which eventually became known as Christmas. Over time, Christmas has become a widely celebrated holiday around the world, with various customs and traditions that have evolved over the centuries.

 This is all I have time for,

Again

Merry Christmas to all,

Ric



December 23, 2023

 


  The weather was sunny and warm in the Tri-Cities today. We rode in my son’s Tesla Model Y car, which is nice and fun to ride in the back seat and look up through the vast glass roof; I would love to have one.

  I read about the Russian helicopter pilot who defected to Ukraine. It turned out he was ultimately against the war, but I think he liked the 500,000 dollars that the Ukraine pays defectors.

  A Ukrainian special government division had arranged for his escape from Russia; the pilot flew 35 feet off the ground to arrive in Ukraine.. his parents were also in Ukraine.

  The Ukrainians somehow ambushed three Russian fighter bombers and destroyed them the other day. These are the bombers that have been lobing the huge 11-hundred-pound glide bombs at Ukraine. I’m writing this from memory, so I can’t vouch for the total accuracy of the information, but it’s what I remember from the news this morning.

  My son, daughter-in-law, and I went to look at the lights around town at ten o'clock. It’s twelve o’clock, about two hours past my bedtime; I must go to church in the morning.


 



December 21, 2023

 

I got to shoulder past the crowds at Costco today…crap! Got to get that pumpkin pie!

  I watched some BYU Christmas specials last night..they were so outstanding. They made me want to be a more helpful individual to people in need, as simple as letting an old citizen take your place in line; maybe they were carrying a load or just looking tired, also helping them load heavy boxes into their car. Just plainly look at your surroundings and be aware of others' needs. I have to admit that I am 72, and sometimes someone does ask me if I need help carrying something (I can’t believe I’m that old!), so there are good people out there. Someone commented that I looked much younger than 72, and I could have hugged them!

  It’s reported that colon cancer is on the rise in America. Gad! Look at what we eat these days—fast foods up the gazu. I'm certainly guilty. We're so fast-paced in this country that we need to eat fast and keep running. Maybe we should take naps like many other countries do; it would help to reduce our stress.

 I noticed in the news today that Hamas was still holding the prisoners, and do we know why the Israelis are upset; why can’t Hamas end this war by giving up the prisoners? Israel wants to annihilate Hamos, but the Palestinians could rise against Hamas and solve that problem.

  I do feel for the million or so refugees that are starving in the camps and cities…that shouldn’t have happened. The Israelis should have had more compassion; instead of blanket bombing, they should have gone from house to house and known who they were bombing and where they were bombing; you know the United States would have been condemned by the world if caught killing thousands of civilians and accuse us of doing what Russia is doing to Ukraine.







I wrote this one Christmas day.


 

                                           My Christmas Story

 Thursday, December 14th 2023


Merry Christmas to all and all a good night.

We’ve fought the good fight most of the night.

 

Put together bikes and what was the matter,

the bike we assembled with a clatter!

 

The plastic and glitter were quite a sight!

 

We’d put up the stockings with care, hoping

that Amazon got there.

 

We woke up on Christmas morning and turned on the lights,

we’d forgotten that materialism was all our plight.

 

What we needed was love and Jesus above.

 

For there was a child that had been born so long ago,

in a Bethlehem stable that was cold and damp.

 

There was no light, and the smells weren’t great, but

our Lord was born to fill the world with light.

 

His teachings and miracles lasted two thousand years,

and never lost their meaning, for they brought joy to the

world.

 

People through the centuries have found how to live

to survive as a human race.

 

So, we looked and read out loud what was important

this Christmas day, for the Savior had been born so long ago

to lighten our burdens and show us the way to eternal life.

 

The Savior died so that we might live again, and we’re able

to right the wrongs in our lives.

 

So, put up the presents and things that don’t matter, and

live the miracle of life.

Ric



 Tuesday, December 12, 2023

 

My high school is having its 55th reunion, and my school’s organizer called the other day to update my information.

I was at the 50th reunion and immediately noticed that the popular kids who were always together at school were all together; they were driving cool cars and wearing the nicest clothes and hadn’t changed that much. I won’t go to this coming reunion. At my 50th reunion, I sat with my wife and didn't really see any of my friends, well, a few.

In my senior year, I was one of the few kids who had a motorcycle, and it was so freeing to motor home for my break hour, and it sometimes was attached to lunch; I worked 4 to 10 at a job after school.

   I’ve heard malls are gaining popularity with today’s youth; it reminds me of my mall experience. I went to eat and chat with friends at the food court. During my experience at the mall, I saw the popular kids walking in groups.

I’m not at ease and always avoid the crowds if I can; I was like that in school.

We did like going to the movies at the mall. It was always good meeting one or two people and having fun.

I walk at the mall, now and then with all the old people walkers, and hang out at Barnes and Nobile.

The wife is coming home from a month and a half at a rehab facility. I will be busy taking care of her.

Ric


Monday, December 4th 2023


Confusing

 

Many things to do in a day, and some are very confusing. My sister gave me a gift subscription for Brit Box the other day, and I almost immediately tried subscribing to it; well, it was a lesson in total frustration for an hour. I tried to get Brit Box and finally gave up, and I don’t give up easily. My wife was all over me to get with it and figure it out, so I pulled some hair out and thought, why not see if I miraculously got it somehow? I had somehow subscribed, “yea.”

   I reported back to my wife, and then she asked me about the Kardia Mobile Card she sent me that supposedly takes your EKG. She bought it for $100.00. So, the directions said to get the Kardia App. So, I did, and there was no plain Kardia app. So, I got two Kardia apps that sounded right; when I looked at them, they weren’t the right ones; one wanted 6.95 a week. So, I finally looked for the pictures on apps listed on the Apple Apps site, found an image like the gizmo I had, and found the right one. It turned out Kardia had all kinds of sites, about ten or so.  Anyway, I have much more work to do to activate the card…about three pages of directions. “Why make it confusing!”

 

    Oh yes, one more; my son bought me the large Eco Show, and I went through programming it and finished it, and the time showed an hour behind. I spent a frustrating hour trying to change the time. I never could, “What’s that all about? Why would they do that?

A brilliant young lady changed it for me in about 4 minutes. I was very impressed.


Sunday December 3rd, 2023



I think, to a certain extent, we are all worried about the world's situation right now. The Middle East could blow up into a regional crisis or war, and there are the Ukraine, Russia, China, and Taiwan. Add some minor conflicts in Africa.

The Russians, Ukraine, Israel, Iran, the United States, and Europe are squandering the resources of the world that are not replaceable and hard to find, such as Graphite. China is the world’s leading graphite producer and accounts for the most significant source of U. S. imports. Graphite is used in car batteries, airplanes, components in weapons, and many other vital uses. China could put a real roadblock on our producing many essential products. Supposedly,

there is a pipeline of products from China, Germany, Europe, Iran, North Korea, and other nations that go overland to Russia to feed their war machine. They are shipped or flown to Russia. So Russia is looking south for electronics and drones.

The West's sanctions of airplane replacement parts, etc., are not allowing the Russians to upkeep some of their civilian planes and military planes as well; there have been a few plane crashes in Russia.

It has been reported that Iran is helping Russia to build a massive plant to produce drones t

So what’s happening is just plain scary to me. I, for one, do pray every day for God's help to prevent the destruction and depletion of our limited resources that will affect our children and their children.

Russia has been dropping colossal glide bombs on Ukraine; the bombs are reported to weigh up to over a ton, and Russian bombers are dropping them.

Of course, the saddest resource lost is human life!

My rant for the day, Ric



Friday, December 1st, 2023

I’m finally writing again, and it's about time!

The big excuse is that my wife has gotten progressively worse health, and I spend a lot of time worrying about her, stressed out, and it just kills my desire to write; of course, there are other reasons, such as just being lazy with my free time. She is currently in rehab for about three weeks, and she has about three weeks more for extra physical therapy.

Why do I worry; it’s, I’m sure, the same scenario all over the world, but she falls a lot, maybe a bad day three times, and we had help from many good people to get her up off the ground. She has her good days and bad. The bad hardly stands, and the good is when she walks with a walker. I love my wife dearly, and it is heartbreaking to witness this decline.

I have some advice for much younger people than me to buy one of those long-term policies that pay for nursing care for your loved one or you at home during a long illness. It’s worth it!

My wife and I didn’t, and we have found out we make too much money a month to qualify for round-the-clock nursing care and will have to pay out of pocket. We are just middle class and barely making enough money for state help, which could break us. Of course, there are maybe other alternatives that I probably know nothing about. However, the state turned us down; I do know it will be tough to keep her at home because we need that 24-hour care and this care would involve me as the second caregiver as she needs two people to lift her at different times. Most people, I’m sure, don’t plan on health problems such as my wife; I also, to top it off, have probably more health problems than she has; Parkinson’s is one of my problems. This makes it a struggle to help as a caregiver.

This is depressing to hear, but I feel we should talk about this government system of caring for its citizens who are average middle class like me and don’t qualify for help. Health workers for older people make about 15 dollars an hour. We were lucky and found my wife’s friend willing to work 3 hours a day, five days a week, and the company charges 30 an hour; you can do the math. That’s 3 hours!! Think what 24 hours would cost. Medicare does pay for a few sources of elder care beyond the initial rehabilitation stay, but most don’t involve round-the-clock nursing for your home, which I know of. This is depressing, I know, but we all must face some extra challenges when we get older…it’s like a car: it eventually will break down, and you need an insurance policy on it so it doesn’t bankrupt you when an engine blows, and of course, it’s a Toyota, and you never thought of it possibly breaking down! You get the drift!


That's my rant for the day.

Ric



The Fungus

Thursday, 20th of April 2023

There is a deadly fungus silently sweeping the nation, according to the news yesterday, much like the mass shooting that is becoming so standard every two weeks or so. I don’t think this country knows how to deal with it. It all starts in the home, is my thought; the video games that are all about extreme violence and fantasy, then there’s the moral decay and the apathy in regards to the spiritual, not to mention the thousands of churches that are closing their doors.

A big problem in our society right now: apathy, people just not wanting to do their jobs and expecting more and more money. I admit that with inflation, we need more money, of course. And I know 60% of people do a good job.



Friday 31st 2023

I haven’t written for a while. I was out walking the dog this evening, and two neighbors' dogs were running loose and circling my German Shepherd. The Shepard was playing with the dog, but he sensed something more sinister from the two black labs. That’s when the hair stood up on his back, and he charged one of the black labs. I realize he probably was just being protective, but I was still holding his leash and thus was pulled out onto the street headfirst. The story's moral is that you don’t let your dogs do that with a German shepherd!

The sad thing is that I was pulled onto my face, elbow, and knee; my elbow and knee had been injured already, which just added to my misery.

On a lighter side, my wife and I’s 50th anniversary is the 2nd of April, and my daughter has arranged a 50th-anniversary party, hoping I don’t have a black eye. I ordered a huge bouquet and a corsage and boutineer. I also ordered a charming anniversary band for my wife, gold, of course (that is the metal for the 50th).

My son, his wife, and grandson are coming from Ridgefield, Washington, tonight, and my son and family are from Spokane. My daughter lives here in Kennewick.

My family will be the most attendees, except for about twenty of our friends.

Ric

Don’t Compare


Friday 15th of April


We have a beautiful day today in the Tri-Cities, a perfect spring day. I sat out on our patio and enjoyed it for the first time since winter.

This morning, I was thinking about how I compare myself to others; believe me, it’s a losing battle! I think it’s just self-defeating to think, why haven’t I been given more responsibility and a leadership position or a better job? Indeed, they see I do a great job and should be recognized for it. It seems that I’m jealous of others' success. Then I realized my thinking was off; we all have our places in life, whether janitors or rocket scientists. Nevertheless, it’s hard because most of us are driven to make more money and get more schooling.

I read a statistic today about Ukraine and Russia losing hundreds of thousands. The Ukrainian push to take back Russian territory this spring, according to the leaked classified documents this last week, predicts a difficult go of it. But I think most of the world is hoping for success, and the Ukrainian people have a huge incentive and drive to push out the avenging invaders who are in their country and killing their people.

I read the other day that the South Koreans had loaned or sold 500,000 artillery shells to the U.S. to help fill our depleted stocks of shells. I think the whole world should be thankful to the Ukrainian people for trying to stop Russia.

Ric

April 10th 2023

It's Monday, and I visited my heart doctor to discuss doing a bubble study Echogram; this is where you inject bubbles into the bloodstream, which allows you to see holes and stints in the heart. The doctor mentioned my age and whether or not it would be doable. I also have a mitral valve prolapse, a valve defect; mine leaks and will have to be fixed within the year. He wants to wait a few months before doing the bubble test and echo gram. Hopefully, Medicare will pay for it. Medical things are boring so that I will talk about something else.

My poor dog Bear is now wearing a blow-up collar and, on top of that, a large plastic cone, and this all keeps him from licking the surgery he had last week so that it will heal. My 110-pound shepherd is sprawled out on our living room rug, smelling of dog. Funny, they smell so lovely when they're little puppies, and then they grow up and smell. Bear came up to me just now and shook his head violently, and hair blew all over my computer and me. Our doggy expense was 2000.00 dollars last month, whew! Remember to consider the cost of a dog when thinking about buying! He has two locations and veterinarians, and we also have a 40.00-month insurance policy on him with Petco Vet.



April 9th, 2023 Easter


As we celebrate Easter, the children are excited about hunting Easter Eggs, adults have their cameras, and parents are caught up in the excitement. I read many explanations about why we track eggs and the Easter Bunny. Some say Martin Luther congregations in the 16th century started the tradition of hiding eggs to celebrate the Savior's resurrection and new birth and the Savior's rising from the tomb after being crucified.

I have many memories of my Easter Sundays, family celebrations, and the gifts we constantly received. It was about giving and receiving the marvelous gifts of chocolate, etc.



March 11th 23 Saturday


I’m sitting here with my big 214 lb. German Sheppard, “Bear,” staring me in the face, and I might add, has a cone of shame around his neck so he won’t bite at a sore on his butt. So he went to the vet last night, and with his medicines and her licking a cyst, it cost 500.00. So, this poor baby is costing us probably 1,500 dollars a month. I can imagine what having three kids would cost these days. Well, my wife and I are retired and thank goodness we don't have any worries about our three children, who are 48, 50, and 52. It makes me old!

We’re going to my daughter’s house to take her to lunch, and I’m bringing them a strawberry cheesecake primarily for their daughter, who loves sweets. We went to Olive Garden, ate some good food, had a good conversation, and had lots to take home. We came home to a little mess in the living room; maybe Bear was acting out, expressing displeasure at the cone.

Today was a fine pre-spring day in our beautiful area of Washington…short sleeves.

I learned today to always take your checks for the mail to a post office or mail place instead of putting them in your mailbox. Thieves can doctor up your old checks and then cash them for lots of money if left in an outdoor mailbox, and it’s a big thing right now.

Yesterday, I learned that you check the engine oil only when the car is hot, then let the oil drain back into the pan for a few minutes…then check the oil much more accurately.

Ric

February 7, 2023

The Foolishness of War


We were thinking about the war in Ukraine, the earthquake in Turkey, 22 inches of rain in California in places, our preverbal tornadoes in the mostly southern states, the drought throughout the west, terrible cold in the Midwest and east, rattling the sabers from China, North Korea, and Iran and many African nations. China will have a navy almost equal to ours.

I see the world responding to turkeys’ plight, where thousands of people have died, and compare that to Russia’s trying to destroy a nation that notably also supplies a large percentage of grain and other goods to help feed the world. The Russians see Russia as incomplete, not possessing Ukraine. Thousands have died, and millions upon millions of people have been displaced in Ukraine. NATO and other countries have given or pledged war equipment to help Ukraine hold back the Russians from annexing their country. Our world’s resources are being spent in Ukraine: Tanks, shells, missiles, planes, helicopters, glide bombs, vast amounts of drones and cruise missiles, artillery, support vehicles by the thousands, guns, ammo, and most of all, human beings, human life lost by the 10’s of thousands, which is the most tragic loss of all.

Turkey’s earthquake has the potential of killing nearly 10,000 people when all was said and done and thousands of buildings. This should be important in the world, each nation supporting other nations that natural disasters have burdened. And then there’s Russia destroying untold resources and people in Ukraine. Probably 60% of the people in this world lose some sleep thinking about the possible outcome of this war. I, for one, have thought about nuclear war if the buttons are pushed and the extinction of life on this planet if that happened; I mean, who doesn’t keep up on current events?

We should all be helping to end this war by voting for people who would support a diplomatic end to this war on both sides of the world.

That’s my rant for the day.

Ric


Jan 25th Wednesday The Silver Dollar


The summer sun beat down with a soothing caress against our skin and life. It was idyllic for my brothers, sisters, and friends during the summer break in Richland, Washington, known as part of the Tri-Cities. I’d say life was perfect except for the winds, which in Richland were known as the termination winds. This nickname was coined during the building of Hanford, which produced the plutonium for the two atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. Back then, substantial dust storms blew, and tumbleweeds filled the unfinished lots where the city of Richland was being built for the workers who were building the Hanford reactors. Many workers quit their jobs shortly after moving to the vast trailer courts, temporarily homes for the workers until the housing was finished. Since then, shelter belts have been built around the city to filter the dust.

The mosquitoes were thick in Richland, and during the summer, a truck pulling a fogger would drive through Richland spraying what I think was DDT, but don’t quote me on that. We had so much fun riding our bicycles through the clouds of smoky insecticide, and how we lived long lives, I don’t know.

During these days, I was struck down in my prime with a vast fascination for girls, and I zeroed in on my sister’s girlfriend, “Pam;” her young beauty intrigued me. We visited the City pool almost daily to cool off from the desert heat and were encouraged by our mothers to gain respite from kids underfoot. During these times, I tagged behind my sister and Pam, and we walked about 4 miles to and from the pool.

The summer produced many forts built by my brother and sisters and, and one was even built on stilts by my father. It rose over our hedge, and we loved to throw dirt clods across the street to rain destruction upon the neighbor’s forts. The dirt clods we dug up at (what we called across the tracks) were across from the vast shelter belts. When we ran out of dirt clods, we used the apricots that would drop from the trees and almost put out an eye or two and bloody noses and bruises.

In one of the forts, we built out of cardboard and engineered it to hold four or five kids. My first puppy love, Pam, visited one day in her stunning sun dress, and we were caught alone in our fort. I had heard the girls giggling about something before she came in. We sat there in silence, not knowing what to say, and I had a distinct impression that I was supposed to kiss her, and she was waiting patiently. My heart was beating so hard I wouldn’t have heard her even if she had said something. Do I dare? Does she want that? Yes, I think so. The urge to run and never look back came as the sweat broke out in force all over my body: “I chickened out.” After that, Pam would look at me disappointed with those big blue eyes, thinking that I didn’t like her.

“If she only knew!”

Pam and Linda, my failed first girlfriend and sister, decided one idyllic day to go to the riding stables in West Richland. I, being still smitten and trying to make up for my failed first kiss and show her my undivided love and devotion, which was at this point was just, “Well that ship had sailed.”

I wanted to tag along, still hopeful, but I had no money.

My Grandfather Fred had given me a silver dollar a few years before, which he said was very valuable and would become worth more as the years went by, and I kept it in my Beneficial Insurance bank with instructions not to lose it!

Being smitten, my vision of riches one day was entirely erased by my smitten lovesick lack of good sense.

Yes, I told my sister, “I’ll get the money and come along,” The only money I had was the off-limits silver dollar, so….

I opened the safe and fished out the silver dollar.

Arriving at the riding stables, I produced the silver dollar when asked for my money! The stable owner looked at the silver dollar and said, “This looks valuable. Are you sure…this is o.k. with your parents? I hesitated because I knew this would land me in a world of hurt; I knew my sister would spill the beans if I didn’t confess.

As I said, my good sense had fled, and I relented and paid the owner my silver dollar.

Was that sunny, warm day of horseback riding with my object of affection worth it?

Well, to this day, I will never know! Although I didn’t realize Pam was impressed and secretly hoping we’d have that first kiss!

My ardor was forgotten entirely when my parents found out, and it landed me in room jail for some days: there was talk of asking the riding stable owner for the silver dollar back, but I know I never saw that silver dollar again. Maybe they haggled it before; I know they bought a new car after that.

As the idyllic summer days passed, I only caught glimpses of Pam and her new boyfriends over the years.

Ric




MAKING LISTS


Today must be considered the first day of my life; that’s how I should think.

It’s hard to do in our busy lives; it’s as if time passes us by, and we’re seemingly unable to control it.

I will start making a list of things I want to accomplish each morning.

It's hard to do, I know, but people talk about baby steps, and that’s what I must do.

I have taken boxing lessons through my Parkinson’s group, which goes by “Rock Steady Boxing. I have missed it for about three months for some good reasons, but I want to start again, but that’s always hard for me. Making goals and writing them down will help me; “That’s the hardest, the first day.”

I have many physical problems that make it very advantageous to walk every day for my health.

I make too many excuses and get plain lazy! Writing goals would help me “Get moving.” Also, I have a problem avoiding that little voice that says, “Don’t procrastinate.” Then I can coast along watching T.V. and start thinking, Well, that person is just plain crazy to walk their dog in 20-degree weather. Not that long ago, I was that crazy person that did just that! I’m justifying my laziness. And it’s hard to get back into the habit. So, making a list of goals will help my laziness.

There you have it, my rant today; I hope it helps me help myself.



10th of December 2022


I couldn’t think of anything to write, so I’m starting, and we’ll see what pops up.


So I’m not thinking about anything in particular.


Everyone has a package inside of them that, if the cord is pulled, will produce a vast raft; this could be good and bad, but living our life will eventually produce this explosion. Our raft allows us to row to land safely or jump in and row into the storm. When we reach the point or crossroads and pull that cord, we need to take a deep breath and think long and hard about which way we want to go. Maybe we get one go-around. We can find love or success by sometimes rowing into the storm and bailing out our raft, tasting failure, but ultimately having success come from failure. We can fight to the cocoon of solid land and not accomplish anything, just coast through life.

Love probably is the same thing: riding into the storm but eventually finding love; we have to bail out our raft and stick it out. In life, we have to weather the bad times to see the success we're having living our lives.

I have to ponder my own life and think that maybe I sometimes row to land and kind of coast along, not accomplishing anything at all, so I’m glad for this line of thought; it will help me weather the storms in my life.

Maybe I can even see the storms others are experiencing and give some friendly advice.

That’s my rant for today.


October 10th 2022


STAYING AWAKE



I have a terrible problem…It’s staying awake. I’ve always had borderline narcolepsy, and at different times in my life, I’ve taken medication for it. I’m now taking medicine for it and am still having problems. But, having ADD disorder, that type of medicine puts me to sleep, so it’s a catch-22…dammed if I do and dammed if I don’t. So, I’ve slept probably thousands of hours. I could have been productive, and this has cost me dearly. I wish you could go back and start over with a new body, but I’ve heard many people say, and I think it’s true, that if we had to do it all over again, we would pick the same problems in life.

I consume a lot of caffeine. I’m not a coffee drinker, but I get my caffeine from AdvoCare (a large company). It sells “Spark,” which does contain caffeine. It keeps me awake when driving or doing something important.

Before writing this, I was up reasonably early and half asleep, trying to decide what to write. And when half asleep, it’s hard to do anything at all. So, being so tired, I wrote this; it wakes me up! But I think I’m not alone in this respect. Probably 70% of people drink coffee to get going in the morning (I think I’m close to being right).

I have learned that forcing yourself to use your brain as writing pulls you out of a stupor. So, I think reading the paper in the morning is excellent.

So, to stay awake and get going in the morning, drink coffee, read the paper, and maybe do a crossword puzzle, but work the brain, your day will probably be much more productive and your attitude better.

I know I’m a lot more ready to shower and do my morning ritual after writing a little; T.V. just makes me tired.

That’s my morning rant.


September 12th 2023


Something Out of Nothing


I have seen some things that just don’t make sense to me and probably never will. Some things were in my past, and I think it’s good to look at some of these.

It didn’t make sense when my father (who seemed loving) just disappeared from my family’s life.

Thirty-two-odd years later, he appeared on my doorstep with a list of accomplishments and no apology. This incident didn’t make sense; he wanted to bring his unhappiness to my family, which he saw as successful. I never welcomed my father back because I found him to be self-serving and selfish just like he was when he originally left his family.

I must admit I brag about his accomplishments sometimes…he made many movies and lived a very colorful life.

This doesn’t make sense! I mean, bragging about him especially when he tore up our family.

Years later, I was working at Hanford as a patrolman. I worked with difficulty because of my ADD (attention deficit disorder). So, after eight years of grief, I took Ritalin, and it changed my life. After a year or so, management found out, pulled my gun, and tried to get me to quit. To make a long story short, I hired a disability lawyer out of Seattle and kept my job, but to get my gun back, I had to stop the Ritalin.

This didn’t make sense and never will.

Back when I was growing up, life (except for specific family problems I mentioned) did make sense to me, except for a war or two.

Today, life is in the doesn’t make sense mode most of the time; all these shootings and anger about life in this world of ours. Why do they think killing everyone around you will make a difference?

And blowing up another country’s buildings and ravishing the populace was sanctioned by total evil

which doesn’t make sense to anyone sane,

So, this is my rant for today.



September 3rd, Saturday, 2022 Pay Attention!


In my lifetime of driving, I’ve only been pulled over by a few people. These are serious pullovers that could have taken my life. (They wanted my lane with my car in it, but I was in their way!) One has occurred in the last month, underscores the fact that people are becoming distracted drivers. We’re also becoming distracted pedestrians; I must watch for people in parking lots. We (and I’m guilty) are thinking about so much in our hectic world with a gazillion things going on, not to mention the world's situation! So, I expect people to walk across before me, not looking where they’re going.

I got stuck or forgot school was getting out and turned the wrong way and ended up behind four school buses waiting for school traffic to let them enter the road in front of the school. I had about seven cars pile up behind me, so I was stuck behind them. We had to wait about six or seven minutes; people who were picking up their kids at school were not allowing the buses to depart. But in their defense, again, we have so much going on in our lives that they don’t think to stop and let the buses out. Thus, my waiting.

As you well know, these are just a few examples, although… there are still courteous people who have it all together enough to let you in the various lines we wait in. I guess their minds are clear and not centered on themselves but on other people. It’s refreshing!

I intend to be one of those people who let that poor old lady cut in line (or just Joe blow in a terrible hurry) …you can spot them if you take the time to. I must clear my mind, think, and decide my needs are not paramount to everyone else’s. I know my life will become better for it.



12th of August 2022, Friday


The Filter


Here in the Tri-Cities, it’s flat-out hot during summertime, and to keep the yards green, we have an irrigation system that draws from the Yakima River, and we pay about 500.00 a year to hook up with it. The water is relatively dirty, and you need a good filter in your yard’s private irrigation system. I clean out this filter every three days or lose water pressure. It’s incredibly smelly when you pull out the filter to clean it!

Our lives are like this smelly filter; we must filter out the debris in our minds to come out clean. To change our internal filter, we must change our minds and seek to get the dirty stuff out of our lives as we endeavor to do good. I try to turn on the TV. I go off and read a good book on my cell phone and do not answer any Robo calls on the phone; I just let the answering machine take it.

If you have children, they can also benefit by reading a book. Granted, I don’t do what I preach very often, so this applies to me also. I, for one, like t.v. It’s tremendously entertaining but too much, numbing my mind, which needs intellectual stimulus now and then—not watching TV. Is where I find time to write, which I enjoy, but when I binge-watch TV. Writing and seeing any time to talk to someone, like my wife or friends, becomes increasingly hard.

I love to walk just because I like to stop and talk to people in the neighborhood as I go around the block. I find it very stimulating to hear other people’s views on life and what’s happening in their lives. And as a bonus, walking gets me away from the TV.

Video games are just like TV. They take away so much time in our lives to accomplish something. My son has always allowed his kids to play video games on the weekend so they find plenty of time for homework and get excellent grades in school. There is one thing, and that’s that my wife likes me to be there when watching TV. So, I have a hard time breaking away. Suppose we would just turn off the TV. We could talk for 30 minutes, and she probably wouldn’t have a problem with me going to write or get some things done. The t.v. Just steals your time.


29th of July, 2022, Friday.

I was thinking this morning that life is a team effort.

I think I will write about this later. Our days here in the Tri-Cities have been over 100 degrees for about four days, and more is in sight. I must tell you about my dog, “Bear.” Bear is a German Shepherd, and his lineage is Eastern European. Watching him last evening, I was amazed at his intelligence (for a dog). He has a toy basket that he sorts through to find the suitable toy, and when through, he usually puts his toys away (not always) but consistently. He has a large ball with a hole in the top; he picks up a little ball and puts it into the big ball, then shakes it around until the little ball comes out, then chases it around.

Nothing interesting is going on, so this is my report today.



15th of July 2022

Take Charge of Your Life


First of all, what do I want out of life? I was thinking this morning. I don’t have time to do it all; I’m like everyone else. I have my priorities: to function as a responsible adult, keep my house in order, fix the things that need fixing, keep my marriage intact, bring in enough money to live on, pay the bills, be a good citizen, spend some on charity, keep myself healthy and fit, make those frequent trips to Costco and these days be aware of the things around me so I can keep from being shot! Yikes, it’s enough to stress me out!

So, how do I keep from being stressed out? Number one, I can keep my life, my house, my debt, etc., uncluttered. I should stay organized. Number two, I can work as a team with my significant other to be a cohesive partnership and accept my half of the daily chores. If I don’t contribute, my wife might develop the same attitude, and I’d be sunk. If I were single, I would expect myself to do everything a married couple would do, and that would require lots of work and accepting responsibility on my part. If I were single, I would need to be driven to accomplish life’s many chores, and I think being single would be a lot more work than being married.



27th of July 2022, Wednesday


The other day at my boxing class (Rock Steady Boxing sponsored), we were, just as an exercise in balance, playing indoor baseball when I dived for 1st base to get a player out. I caught my foot with the other and smashed into a seven-foot-high mirror with the back of my head; I broke it and was showered with a lot of glass. I hit that hard. I had signs of a concussion, so I went to the emergency to check for a bleed on the brain.

That's my excitement for the week! I got to bed late last night watching "The Gray Man." It was perfect. I recommend it, although violent, which I don't advise for younger kids.

I read the other day that Ukraine would start shipping grain again to avert a global hunger crisis.




21st of July 2022, Thursday


I can't believe this month is almost gone! I've been busy with heck knows what! You know how that goes: someone asks you what you've been doing lately, and you must think...well..I'm thinking!

I'm growing my usual garden with "of course, Zucchini," and I'm always busy making Zucchini bread and taking it to people I know...I love to bake just about anything, whether from scratch or mixed. I made gluten-free cookies from scratch for my son and family when they came over from Spokane the other day, and that's usually made from scratch. They came out great!

I have two substantial tomato plants in my garden, one doing great and one not so well. It seems we either get along or, like my struggling tomato plant, not so well. I have a nephew who is 39 and has never worked a day in his life; well, he did, I believe, work for a pizza place for about a week...that's it! I remember he got fired after that week because he wanted to go for a smoke. He told his boss and his boss told him to wait until his break. I guess he thought that was unfair and went for a smoke anyway. He got fired on the spot. He's into drugs and taking a good part of his single mother's money. He's never had a driver's license or done one responsible thing. Two years ago, he managed to roll his mother's car. Somehow, he claimed something; who knows? They got a lawyer and have now won dollars...go figure. Back to my tomato plant, it was sick but got watered and fertilized like the one thriving. My nephew was given everything when growing up with a good mother and sister; he came out wrong, and his sister was great.

Like my sick plant, I have no answer about why this happens. Is there a life force or spirit that determines what we do, or is it chance, genetics, and how we were raised? Too bad, there's not a pill we can take.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings


…for Thurs the 14th of July 2022


4th of July


Our independence was gained by determined forefathers willing to give their lives for self-rule. Here in the Tri-Cities, we have a vast park that parallels the Columbia River and is where our residents gather to watch the fireworks. Probably 80% of the Tri-Citians aren’t thinking about our forefathers; I know when growing up, it didn’t register with me either.

I had to pick up my grandson at the boat docks due to his not wanting to travel with his parents in their boat to the fireworks being held on the Columbia River…he said he would be bored to death waiting 4 hours until the fireworks began on the river. He is a teenager. My mind is drawn to the shivering soldiers of General Washington crossing Delaware to fight for their country; they didn’t have the luxury of quitting and going home to their wives and children in lovely, warm homes. If only those soldiers could have seen the people of the United States celebrating the 4th of July and what their sacrifice brought to pass in creating this great nation. I’m sure it would have warmed their frozen hands and feet to see what their sacrifice would bring to pass. If only we could experience firsthand their suffering to appreciate what we have as a nation. I wish my grandson could have had these thoughts as his parents traveled by boat to the fireworks and realized what we were celebrating; it was for a free country and families to have the essential rights of self-government.



The rock

We tend to pick up rocks along the way in life, and we get used to their weight and hardly notice anymore. Things happen that we don’t attribute to them.

The question is, how do we get rid of these rocks? The first and most significant step is recognizing we have the stones and what they are.

I’ve always identified these rocks as guilt, addictions, things we failed at, the life we wish we had lived, lies to others, afflictions of the mind and body, lack of conviction, short temper, and selfishness; there are so many more!

These rocks can be different for any one person.

Everyone experiences guilt; to drop this rock, we must face guilt head-on, admit what we did was wrong, and forgive ourselves.

We need to see people as flawed with many problems to drop the short-temper rock and give them a break.

Selfishness: we must drop our pretenses, be a little meek, see others’ problems, and Stop loving our stuff so much. Giving can lighten our load by dropping that heavy rock and letting us live a more fruitful life.

Addictions are the worst and heaviest of rocks to drop. We fight them with the help of a higher power, loving those around us and righting the wrongs in our lives. Share our desire to quit with others, whether a group, counselor, or a good friend. Keep busy helping others; in helping others, we help ourselves. We feel better about ourselves. When giving to others, we gain strength, fortitude, and a stick-to-it attitude.

Lies are a part of all of us, predominately white lies. Lies sometimes get us what we want, make our lives seem better, and hurt others. To overcome these lies, we need to grasp our lives; life is hard, but knuckle under and avoid lies by not creating the situation where we must lie. We can better our lives by giving to others and helping others. Quit with the excuses in life.



I'm placing a poem in my Blog about the Hanford Site; I was a patrolman sitting in the guard house checking cars coming in and out of the site...I was a little bored.


A Poem the... The Way It Was


The updrafts lifted the lone seagull high, a sparrow hawk, small and swift, flitted past.

The sun suddenly shone out of the billowing clouds, a mild temperature that caressed the skin.

A silence that only nature can produce, tranquil and calming.

In the outpost was a hum of modern conveyance,

a crackle of static, and the human attempt at magic airwaves.

The steads of steel rumbled past, stopping momentarily for man's more than earned mistrust of man.

The sun again lost its hold.

Two old ravens drifted by, using wind currents and a tiny wing power.

The old hairy raven landed on a rusty dumpster, checking for dinner.

Immediately, they attracted the attention of the diving raven attacking starlings.

The ravens challenged with a loud caw!...as small attacking jets swooped to inflict damage.

To the east, the "White Bluffs" overlooking the mighty Columbia turned bright with the setting sun.

Way to the West, "Rattlesnake" stands most enormous of all the Columbia mountains. I am turning into a glowering, dark mood.

Off to the North rises a pure basalt outcropping; for a thousand years, this silent sentinel represented fertility to the American Natives.

The "Saddle Mountains" guarded ancient, petrified remains much further north.

The Fast Flux Test Reactor is off to the South, jutting in man's proud triumph.

Far overhead, the eagle soars, brushing against the deep blue sky and white billowing clouds.

As the shifting light paints on God's giant canvas, the sky turns a rare turquoise blue.

The canvas turns deep red to the Northwest.

The sparrow hawks cry as the last light fades.

An air monitor for radiation drones is still in the quiet evening.

The reactors in the distance cast an ominous sense of dread about the silent calm of nature.

Written by me...


Later today, I got to writing; the weather got bad, so I was forced inside, except for my walk with Bear, my dog.


Approach to Life


Most people look at others and think they've got the most extraordinary life and fly through life. I've since changed my mind... since I got older.

I've started thinking of others as flawed with many problems and that they struggle with personal relationships, finances, family, work, health problems, mental problems, and many other problems.

When I view people like that, I am likelier to say hi, strike up a conversation, be helpful to people in trouble, be understanding when people are obnoxious to me, just be kinder, and love those who spitefully use me.

When I see a woman with a beautiful ring, I try to compliment her, and this is a natural icebreaker.

You can look at a guy, and they may think you are gay or something, so I talk about the weather; maybe I think I'm going to mow my lawn today, what football team I'm following, and I sometimes mention my fantasy football addiction, and of course, I can always compliment him on his car, express my dislike of inflation, raising kids, the Ukrainian crisis, work, hunting, fishing, etc.

And, of course, women can use the same thing.

Women can compliment a woman on anything except congratulating her on being pregnant when she's not. (I've even done that)

The other day, my wife and I were sitting in our car eating sandwiches we had just purchased at Fred Meyer, and we were sitting in a handicapped space (my wife and I are handicapped), and this significantly older man came up to our car and rapped on the car window. I rolled it down and asked what he wanted; he replied that we were taking up a handicapped space by sitting there eating and asked us to move. My first inclination was to protest with a What's that got to do with us? Were handicapped. I could tell this would not fly with this particularly mean, grumpy old man, and being that we were almost finished with our sandwiches, I replied, "No problem." I just avoided a real confrontation.

You could say I was a wimp, but I would answer no; I'm not a wimp by any means...I choose my battles with someone who seems sane. It saves a lot of grief!!




Today's thought, Monday the 17th of May 2022...The title is More Than One Thing.


I'm going to the doctor at 3:15 this afternoon, right after my boxing, which I'm not sure I can attend. I woke up, and the foot that I broke a bone in was on fire (my verdict is usually gout or the little bone I died two years previous is out of place), then my jaw hurts terribly when I eat.

I'm a wreck this morning. I'm getting older and honestly should expect these sorts of disorders.. my problem is my inner me says I'm still young, so the outer me is simply perplexed about these developments.

I know everyone gets old; we'll all die, right? My point is to enjoy your youth while you have it; it only comes around once. Don't miss opportunities...get that schooling in while young, and you were able to stay awake in class; yes, you might be poor doing it, but it pays so much! Put your energy into excelling at your talents—maybe becoming an electrician, welder, fireman, doctor, doctor or dentist, lawyer, etc. You will fail somewhat as you attempt to reach for the best profession, but if you're not failing, you're not progressing. I say go for the stars in life. Of course, be happy with what you're undertaking. I mean, not deliriously happy but feeling good about yourself.

I can't stress enough about feeling good about yourself as you go through life. If someone makes you feel bad about yourself all the time, get out of that relationship, whatever it takes, and stay in school. Some kids do just that, even if they remain in a tent for a while.

So, do it while you are young; you have the potential and energy. Some of the wealthiest men ever to live started selling papers on the corner. They weren't even geniuses, but pretty much like you and I.

Well, I've been on my bandwagon way too long this morning, and I'll hang it up; this is my rant for today!

Eyes


We don’t realize the importance of our eyes; four years ago, my Doctor told me I was getting.

This macular degeneration of my eyes leads to blindness. My doctor said to take Occuvite, but It hasn’t progressed.

With our eyes, we see this wonderful world of ours. I sometimes imagine what it would be like to lose my vision; this highlights how important sight is. I have Parkinson’s, and my sight helps me balance; I am very unstable when I close my eyes.

Although without sight, you wouldn’t judge a person so quickly by looks alone; we would judge by what the person had to say, how sincere they seemed, and their actions. It makes you think!

Losing your sight would make us humbler and more in touch with ourselves, and you’d have to have a healthy trust in people or a guide dog.

They say the eyes are the windows of the Soul. The Soul is a compilation of good or bad or in-between. Our soul feels things; it makes us who we are: we love, hate, are industrious, or are just lazy. The Soul has the power to mold our lives like clay.


Today is the 27th of May, almost June, and here in the Tri-Cities, I haven't seen a summer yet, and they talked about a drought the other day...I don't see it!

I've been attending my boxing classes on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Today, I made a big batch of cookies for the boxing class and baked some brownies for our friends.


Time


In my experience, time can be your friend but also your enemy. As time goes by, you wish you could relive experiences you passed up and opportunities missed. You look back, thinking that maybe someone could have stepped up and goaded you into action and encouraged you to take the plunge, whether going to school, riding a motorcycle, dating someone, or making physical changes to your life, such as going to the gym. As friends or family, we can alter someone's life and change their life course.

We just are always afraid of stepping on toes. I say, let’s step on toes; why not? If a friend or family doesn’t like it, they will consider it and possibly change their minds.

If my Dad had encouraged me to attend a complete college education and get a college degree, I would have seriously tried to fulfill his wish. A Dad is very influential in your younger years.

My wife’s family encouraged her to finish college, and she did. Her family gave what they could, even if it wasn’t much.

I wish I’d had the hindsight to have encouraged my children more when they were younger.

Time is so fleeting when you are older; you want to accomplish more because you know there’s not much time left.


I was up early this 29th, May 22, and wrote this to celebrate Memorial Day.


The Futility of War


The sadness and futility of war. That’s why we contribute to protecting our country, and other countries engaged in the chaos of war, fighting for the democratic way. We haven't had a situation where we had to fight a war as an Allie with another country for many decades; we don't want World War III, and that's what the people of the United States are faced with right now.

Ukraine is fighting for democracy and its right to govern itself; as a people, we want to step in and fight alongside them, but there's the Spector of World War III.

Over 50,000 soldiers died in Vietnam and thousands in Afghanistan and Iraq; we honor these fallen soldiers.

Our lives and liberty are in jeopardy if another nation attacks our shores, and we would rely heavily on our armed forces.

Our population hasn’t been trained for war; we are soft and must be prepared quickly by hit-and-miss training.

We honor these fallen soldiers, for they were willing to die for our freedom and are heroes in most Americans' eyes.

Our Armed Forces are ready to defend us and risk their lives every day in their preparation for protecting our freedoms.


Today is Sunday, the 29th of May, and I couldn't think of anything to say, so I asked my wife to pick a topic. So she chose Gratitude.


Gratitude


Gratitude is gratitude; everyone knows this, but do we practice it? I had a sister-in-law who tended to move frequently, and I had helped move her at least five times and have decided not to help again due to one important thing she had never practiced: thanking me for what I did when I moved her—cleaning house, etc.

People sometimes expect me to do for them, and I don't respond to this very well.

Do I have to be thanked? Sometimes not, especially for someone sick and unable to do things themselves.

I am grateful for many things: My wife for putting up with me all these years, my wonderful children who are always quick to say "thank you," my friends who thank me for trying to do a job right, and my grandchildren who are always quick to say thank you. I am thankful for our democracy and the freedom afforded me. I guess the things I'm grateful for are too numerous to mention here.


June 4th, 2022


I watched a good movie on Netflix this morning ( Perfect Pairing) and enjoyed it; I am quite the Romantic.

My wife and I planted some flowers in the barrels lining our driveway, and I spent 360.00 on flowers, "yikes."

The weather is another blah day in our beautiful neck of the Tri-Cities; I love this place, the weather and all.

Today is Saturday, so there is not much going on; I'm still trying to get my foot to heal so I can return to boxing class and walking.

I will do some actual writing today because I have the time for it. At least, that's my plan. I'm writing more than two books simultaneously, and I haven't worked on two for a while, but I haven't done much lately due to starting this site.


June 6th, 2022


I'm feeling poetic this morning, so I'll see what comes up; meanwhile, I'm sitting at my I-mac in the bedroom/family room and watching the morning light get brighter and brighter, so I know it's going to be a nice day! I just remembered my alarm will go off at 6:00, so I've got to turn it off before it wakes my wife...she hates the sound of my alarm clock. Just as a note, I'm the kind who doesn't buy cheap, for lots of different reasons, but just as an example, my sister Penny sent me an alarm clock one Christmas when we were drawing names and picking out a family to send a Christmas present to, it was a beautiful alarm clock. Has lasted 45 years. When I see that alarm clock or shut the alarm off, I always think of my sister. My wife always yells at me, "Don't be cheap."

So I'll write my poem now.


Her Little Boy


Back at the Homestead

near the hearth,

lay Charlotte…so close to the earth.


She’s propped on a Pillow..but

not asleep..instead she’s reading

about things so deep.


She’s looking at the difficult, deep

and profound..a mystery

a novel of riddle and round.


But then a boy with curls

..a-blow, came running

in through the door.


He swirled, twisted with sinuous

Grace..snaking looping as

if in a race.


She had to laugh at his face,

for it was so innocent and pure.


The book that had been so

profound now was

found near the

ground.

For in her arms was

all the world…..her little

boy.

Written by me


I was thinking about this last poem I wrote, and my thoughts went to my family. My daughter-in-law sent us a needlepoint of all our extended family; it was very detailed and took her who knows how much time to do. She sent this picture to my wife and me, representing our family's cohesive love. What powers this family is their love for one another. We love each other and will support each other through the muddy waters of life.

We're not perfect by any means; we have our feelings hurt at times, as all families do, but the foundation of this family is substantial.

There's so much happening in our country that's worrisome right now: the shooting, killing on purpose, and killing indiscriminately. These killers have no foundation in the family, at least in my thinking. I hope families everywhere will love more. Maybe limit video games to just on weekends; that is just the beginning of things to do to foster a cohesive family. That's my rant for today.

The weather looks excellent here in Kennewick, Washington, this morning...no wind! We call our greater area the Tri-Cites; the Columbia and Yakima Rivers separate three cities.


The 12th of June 2022


They are putting in our walk-in shower... We paid another $5000.00 for the privilege but were pleasantly surprised at their great job. One night, we stayed at the Comfort Inn with our dog to avoid the mess at home and the fact they turned the water off at different times during the day. The construction wasn't a big deal, except we mainly wanted to get away. On Thurs morning, I had to run Anthony (An ex-pro football player who had played with most of the NFL teams) to a clinic in Pasco, Washington, and back to the motel where he was staying. On an interesting note, he barely fits into our Subaru. The shower was finished Friday at noon and is beautiful.

I have had three dental implants as of late, and one of them got infected, and a lot of bone had deteriorated, so on the 15th, they're doing surgery on the infection and grafting in bone. I decided to have them put me under while they did the surgery, but it was so expensive, to the tune of 800.00. Oh well, this isn't even expensive compared to an implant, which can run 4000.00 dollars, with two insurances. Ouch! Of course, that's the Tri-Cities, Washington; this area is expensive. We're going to church in a few minutes, so I'll cut this short and try to write a little later.


Today is the 14th of June, a beautiful Tuesday Morning in 2022


I lost a whole post yesterday; I saved it in Word to paste on my site and save it to my desktop. It disappeared entirely from my computer! Ouch! I looked everywhere, but it was gone…who knows what happened?

This morning I’m still bummed about that and wondering if I’m writing to a little ghost on my computer that will sense what I’m writing, and I’ll disappear again…

I’ve been staring at my screen for 40 minutes this beautiful sunny morning, and partly because I got up too early, my eyes are burning tired…need some eye drops..you know how it goes.

I went to my boxing class yesterday, and they worked us to that bone; I’m still sore! Our boxing program is called Rock Steady Boxing. We have an aerobatics instructor, our leading coach, and a pro-ex-boxer, Isiah; He fought many pro fights. So, you do the math, and the mix of teaching styles makes for a tough workout. It is very challenging for me and the others. Our primary instructor’s name is Jill.

Isiah also teaches his boxing classes.

I’ve managed to write more than I thought possible this blurry-eyed morning!


6/17/22


Gas, we can't afford it!


I know I'm just letting the tank get half full and then filling up, and it's not such a shock, and I know many other people are doing the same. I'm only filling up in the more relaxed morning when the gas is denser, and you get more gas. I've heard from many sources that you never fill up when the tanker truck fills the station tanks because the junk at the bottom of the enormous tanks is stirred up and can get into your tank. I must admit to not doing this when I was too lazy to move to another station. It's a shame! Keep your tires at the correct pressure; this can reduce the rolling resistance and save lots of gas. Les Schwab will do it for free...and they're always happy to do that.

Keep your engine tuned up and save gas. Don't do jackrabbit starts; they always say to drive like you have a carton of eggs on your dashboard and don't let them slide off. Use your cruise control on the highway but not in town to save gas. Don't carry extra junk in your trunk. It just takes more gas to move your car down the road. I talked to a young lady the other day who never looks at her receipts..it's a shock!

Well, I hope this helps some,



The Mire. 3/22/21

I wrote this a couple of years ago.


This country sank further down into the proverbial tar pit; today, in Boulder, Colorado. 10 people were killed in a supermarket! One officer was shot as he tried to respond to the scene and later died. The Dirty Scum butt, afraid of his own shadow, got a gun and became a prominent man just like the video games he played mindlessly for over 20 years; he took ten lives. There also was another mass shooting a few weeks before that. Where is the fault? Maybe It’s with the parents who raise a little hellish brat in the first place. And who grew the parents of the little man from hell? What were their parents like? I’m seriously considering carrying a concealed weapon to protect myself and others. You are almost afraid to go out in public…but we can’t escape that. We need not tolerate but punish to the full extent of the law any crime committed with a gun and even consider the death penalty for a crime with a gun. That sounds wild, but is it?


Sunday, the 19th of June 2022


Today, I'm sweating out how my dog will get rid of the chicken leg he swallowed last night. He's never eaten anything off our counter before until last night, and I don't know if he can eliminate that quickly! He's a huge German Sheppard, black, of European bloodline. We will see.

Happy Father's Day to any father that may read this post; my wife and I are going to my Daughter's house for a barbecue this afternoon and looking forward to it.


It's deplorable


To most Americans and me, it's deplorable the carnage happening in the States right now.

We have a great democracy here in the U.S., but not everyone is, I guess, capable of seeing that. They're mad at their lives, and thus, they seek to make everyone miserable like themselves. They take the lives of those they despise and hate for one reason. Instead of just making people miserable, they shoot, stab, run over, blow up, and just butcher the good people of America. Why can't they just make people sad instead of shooting them? What inside of us snaps and wants suicide by our police force, or do they think of the consequences of killing people?

To me, people do seem to come together after a mass killing, but why don’t we come together before this killing happens and figure out how to help and heal the mentally ill and provide decent facilities for them to be diagnosed and given treatment and the ability to recognize when people are hurting and leaning towards hurting themselves or others. I imagine guidance counselors are way overworked at schools and need more help to catch those who need attention, are loners or bullied, or seem not to fit in. We need an investigator to check students' web pages or follow up on complaints filed by teachers and guidance counselors of students seemingly out of step with school life and suffering mentally For each school. Just a thought!

And this goes for companies and corporations just the same.



The other day, I purchased the Grammarly Program that checks for many grammar mistakes, and I'm trying to go through some of my writing, knowing that I make a lot of errors.

My wife and I like to give all we can to places like Saint Jude's Hospital and help our friends in need; we offer to our church and give to many charities and disasters worldwide. I don't want to sound high and mighty, but quite the opposite. I know Americans are very giving people, and other countries worldwide. But we can only give what our budget can take, so everyone does their best to share what they can provide. And it makes me feel good about myself; that's a big deal in my book. This Sunday morning, I'm thinking about my better self. We all have a better self inside, and all people share that. I will try to capitalize on this feeling today and see if it can help my perspective and see different paths I can take that may better my life because I have some habits to work on that I can hopefully change. I never see them until I get in tune with my better side. A simple thing that I'd like to change is that I don't smile enough, and I'd like to try to be more optimistic about things. So today, I will try these out and maybe surprise my wife with a more positive me.

Ric Mac, this is Sunday, the 26th of June 2022 (We have nice weather here in the tri-cities..Yes!)


My wife and I are in Seattle at an Air B and B to attend a doctor's appointment with our big brute of a dog. He takes up the whole back of our Subaru when traveling, but he loves to travel and adapts to change fast.


Along came a spider


Have you ever been driving down the road, and a giant spider is dropping from the car's ceiling in front of your face? I had the dubious pleasure of this happening the other day and reacted like a real trooper. I yelled whoa… And swat! I didn’t see where it went, which deeply concerned me. The other day, I reacted equally well. We were traveling from Spokane to the Kennewick area of southeastern Washington, and a semi-truck pulled over on us; I laid on the horn and was steering with one hand off on the shoulder of the road. The trucker swerved back into his lane…I guess he heard my honking or saw me in his mirror. Scary..scary.

The spider and the truck were equally scary to me, yet the car could have snuffed out the life of my wife and me. Yet I’m still driving but careful to check for spiders and passing trucks on the highway. Now, I flash my lights before passing a car, pass very quickly, and check if the vehicle is swerving, the sign of a tired driver. We only get a limited number of chances to become a good driver; it’s either developing good habits or possibly not making it very far in life.

When great danger comes to us in life, are we prepared to meet it? Have we developed the proper habits? For instance, we live down the hill from a large feeder canal above us; some nights, we could wake up to a lot of water gushing around us and in the house. The chances of this happening are 1 and 10,000, but I have considered it. My wife and I have go-packs; these backpacks are full of survival gear, and we have 3 in the closet. There are so many types of emergencies needing something like that if it comes to pass.

I always buy the best snow tires I can get, and we drive a Subaru with all-wheel drive…do we need them? Maybe… if we do, they could save our lives with all the black ice in the southeastern part of our state.

I act like it’s going to happen. Maybe that’s a little stressful, but the day before, my wife and I almost got run off the road; I had taken off my older tires and replaced them with the best bridge stone tires I could buy. When I went off onto the shoulder of the road at 75 miles per hour, I’d like to think those great tires were traction enough to stay steady on that gravel surface and not blow a tire or slide off. It’s up to us to survive life’s dangers; that takes a plan and thinking ahead of what it takes to stay alive. That’s my advice.

I realize just like anything else in life, there's no magic bullet, and I'm vulnerable to chance like everyone else, but I like to try to increase my chances of surviving by trying to be prepared.












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