noises

In C.S. Lewis’ novel That Hideous Strength, a character makes a commonplace observation: “I suppose there are two views about everything.”  “Eh? Two views? There are a dozen views about everything,” comes the rejoinder, “until you know the answer. Then there’s never more than one.”  Remember folks, I’m just a little old farm boy from a mile and fourth south of Roseland, MN soooooo I surely don’t know many or any answers.  Remember that when reading this “It’s Saturday.”

This noise is what a sixth-grade grandson told a friend...Papa have you seen the movie Constipated? It's not out yet! Here is some noise from TheOtherWarrenFromOmaha--The fattest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi. What do you think of these noises?  That is what I thought. 

There are many noises that try to influence us, and they do. We might not think they do or we might not even realize they do but they do.  CrazyMarvin (i.e. who is a leaker and a pathological liar) says—All those noises helped me be who I am; I am sure those noises helped me become how great I am today. Of course, it might be just luck or ironic. I really have no idea.  But I know that I’m way better off than the guy across the street!  Bingo!

While eating my oatmeal with a half a banana on it, I read what Dr. J said—"Average athletes think they are good until they play against someone who is great—same for musicians, artists, teachers, or any other role in life. To know who we really are we must see ourselves in light of a higher standard. The more we get to know Christ—“the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15)—the more accurate picture we have of ourselves. He is our true mirror.” My Daddy, Chester, would say to me—erv, those who really think they are great probably aren’t; those who don’t know they are great are probably the great ones.  My Mom, Anna would say—erv, always do what is right and you won’t need to worry about much.  I still hear their noise! 

Here is some noise I heard recently.  I was approached by an acquaintance the other day.  The conversation went like this—erv, I see you trotting around town; you don’t go very fast—no, I go pretty slow don’t I but it works for me—why don’t you join me; I only run 2.5 miles—huh, I couldn’t run half a block as he grabbed his big gut—like you said, I go slow; how old are you anyway—I’m 52—how much do you weigh—310 and it’s all paid for.  Such is life.

I had a nice talk with a friend recently (i.e. I really like him as he is a real guy with a good heart; my kind of person).  ANYWAY, he told me that his health is affected by three things that are really bothering him. Those three things caused him not to be able to sleep at night.  He shared them.  I agreed with him that they are concerns (i.e. a lot of noises in his head alright).  He said that it seems that stress has caused him health concerns.  I agreed. I told him he needs to get rid of some of that stress.  He agreed and said he is working on it.  I’m concerned about him.  I care about him.  I wonder if he is different than others.  Can any of you relate? 

Another friend (i.e. a super senior) shared with me her dreams (i.e. weird dreams) that wake her up (i.e. crazy).  She hears the noises.  Do you think those dreams mean anything or are they just dreams?  I always wonder.  I read in the Bible that dreams did have meanings (i.e. were interpreted) but now days, it appears that folks don’t think soooo (i.e. I have never heard anyone having their dreams interpreted).  Why the difference?  I tell you what, I have no idea.  What do you think?  That is what I thought.  Such is life.

Recently, I had soooo much fun with a friend.  It came about with him evaluating the value of some guns I have.  I was thinking of selling them and he is an expert.  We had soooooo much fun together that it was just crazy.  I really like this guy as he is real and has a good heart; my kind of person.  Because of him, I decided not to sell the guns (i.e. they aren’t that valuable but just have a lot of sentimental value to me.  I decided to learn to take one of them apart and clean it up (i.e. I want to learn which gives me a new experience—learned by YouTube).  Because of this fun time, we have decided to enter into a small business opportunity.  It is more about having fun than the money.  What a great opportunity.  It just fell into my lap a.k.a. blind stroke of luck; happenstance, na, I don’t think soooo folks. 

I’m smarter than I thought but that doesn’t take much!  I have really learned and relearn some stuff recently (i.e. heard from a lot of noises and made a lot of mental pictures).  I was reassured in what I believe, the way I want to try to be, and how I don’t want to be.  I learned this mainly by watching and listening to others; most of the experience this time came from watching folks who I don’t want to be like at all.  I just don’t agree with them (i.e. their actions and what they say by how they try to present themselves). I just maybe might be in the majority with my thinking; just maybe (i.e. self-promoting folks like other self-promoting folks).  I was visiting with a pickleball buddy about the actions of a person—I said that maybe that person is rather head strong; she said, headstrong, he’s obnoxious.  I was thinking that but didn’t say that.  Sooooo all you folks who strengthened my beliefs and values, I say thank you.  You teachers will never guess it was you! I think that is funny and maybe others might think it is tooooo!  Bingo!

ItchieBitchie says—You hear and will hear a lot of noise in your life time.  No question.  We do have a choice as to what noises we will listen toooo.  Those noises will affect us.  Personally, I think it’s very important that we choose certain folks to be around.  I have chosen many of you to be around and hear your noise.  Thanksamillion for you noise.  "Everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you. And you can change it, you can influence it. Once you learn that, you'll never be the same again." -- Steve Jobs

Another noise that is heard all the time is money.  Don’t kid yourself; it affects folks.  I read this--Becoming rich can mean losing old friends over time because it’s harder and harder to relate once the divide begins and compounds. There are fewer people who you can trust and empathize with that - a certain sense of isolation is bound to happen. You believe that? That is what I thought. 

This is warm to the touch soooo be careful when reading and believing it. Sooooo be cautious.  ItchieBitchie says—I get all confused about a lot of stuff.  I’m sure many of you have the answers about these questions by a Christian church. I think this series of talks is interesting. I plan to listen to them.  I have an extra special interest as our nephew-in-law will be giving some of the talks.  I want to see if he knows all the answers! ha ha

Are the Jews saved according to the Bible?  If I read it right, they are the chosen people. This is a lot of noise without answers.  I believe what I believe (i.e. that Christianity is correct but I also believe that I'm not right in everything  I beleive--I can’t promise you I’m right).  Soooo you ask, erv, how do you known what you believe is right? I just told you, I don't!  A smart friend (i.e. who has impressive club head speed) says—What I think really doesn’t matter (i.e. I think he is saying that God is God and is in charge)! I also heard on the news that the main-stream noise about the tariff is that the tariff is really going to hurt the price of soybeans—the price has gone up!  Crazy! YaBut, the news said…!  A friend who is a farmer (i.e. who spends a lot of time at the grain elevator) told me that the last time this happened, the U.S. sold the beans to Canada and Canada sold the soybeans to China.  Canada made a killing, he said.  China needs U.S. soybeans to feed its people.  LuckieEddie says—There is more than one way to skin a cat! I believe there is only one way to salvation.  That is what I believe.

I know the answer to most questions. Yes I do. The answer is, I don't know! God's understanding I cannot fathom!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says--Do not let what you cannot do, interfere with what you can.

P.S.SharpasatackNelson says--You really don't need to begin saving for retirement before you reach 60. At that point, simply save 250 percent of your income each year and you'll be able to retire comfortable at 70.

tough tough tough

"Advice is one thing that is freely given away, but watch that you take only what is worth having. He who takes advice about his savings from one who is inexperienced in such matters, shall pay with his savings for proving the falsity of their opinions." - The Richest Man in Babylon  Soooo folks, be careful about the advice/opinion in this "It's Saturday." The advice in this "It's Saturday" might leave you bleeding by the side of the road!

I had a pickleball friend tell me that she has plantars fasciitis.  I would have never known it if she wouldn't have told me.  She must be “one tough cookie” to keep playing.  Sooooo I called myfriendSecretariat, who I knew had plantars fasciitis a couple of years ago and asked what he did to get over it.  I knew it hurt him but didn’t realize how bad it was and how much it hurt (i.e. he didn’t tell me the whole story before).  This guy is as tough as a $2 steak soooo it must of really hurt!

I have to get tougher as a friend told me recently—erv, you have to learn to not to give a...what others think (i.e. get tough)!  Our culture really messes me up (i.e. I don’t like it; it can hurt relationships).  I do think that when men are around women, they are careful and concerned how others think of them (i.e. public opinion is very strong). They don’t want to be considered a womanizer or whatever. I’m a risk taker soooo I don’t let it affect me (i.e. toooooo much anyway).  I read in the paper soooo it must be right that some men are very careful or become reluctant to interact with women in the workplace.  They are justifiably afraid they could be accused of something soooo terrible they would be fired.  A “fake” claim itself is all that is needed.  Now all this is tooooo bad.  Crazy!  I have a long time female friend, who goes to our church, (i.e. a very nice, caring person) give me a hug the other day.  Sorry to say, I did think what others thought but I really didn’t give a…!  Her caring was soooooo great and appreciated (i.e. I was going to use the word love instead of caring but some of you (i.e.who are extremist and alarmists and over reactors) would get it misconstrued)!  Such is life in our modern culture!

Verooooom! Before you know it, you are 90 or 100.  MyFriendJean is 90 and I use to tell her that she would live to 100. I told her recently that I have revised my estimate to 120. I told her that by the time you get to 100 they will be able to replace every body part sooo you will be you but not really be you.  You will need to keep your old glasses, or I won’t recognize you! She just laughed. There really are a lot of tough super seniors who are really tough mentally and physically; they are just plain tough (i.e. tough as nails).

Much stuff isn’t near as tough as they use to be; we have many modern methods, equipment, and technology that really makes things easy (i.e. way easy).  I learned from Jessica, our daughter-in-law, last Sunday that there are folks who are called UX (i.e. user experience designers).  They enhance user satisfaction with a product by improving the usability, accessibility and pleasure provided in the interaction with the product (e.g. they do things soooo it is easy to use a web site; as easy as 1 2 3;  anybody can do it).  If it isn’t easy, we will go where it is easy.  UX takes the toughness out of it and put the easy into it (i.e. it’s all about getting our money).  By the way, our Jessica is a UX to Arlene and I (i.e. she makes life a lot easier for us a.k.a. a sweetheart).

President Trump is walking out of the White House and heading toward his limo, when a possible assassin steps forward and aims a gun.  A secret service agent, new on the job, shouts, “Mickey Mouse!”  This startles the would be assassin and he is captured. Later, the secret service agent’s supervisor takes him aside and asks, “What made you shout Mickey Mouse?”  Blushing, the agent replies, “I got nervous. I meant to shout Donald.... duck!”

LuckieEddie (i.e. who is wired different than most folks) says--It’s a tough world out there let me tell ya! Ya really have to be tough to compete in the world of business; It takes great planning, being smart and have some luck (i.e. ya gotta have a plan).  I walked into the cafe to have breakfast with a friend (i.e. age 72 who was/is a successful business man).  He was already there sitting in a booth making and reviewing plans for his business day (i.e. still working).  He is one tough dude in many ways.  ANYWAY, the picture is the method he uses to plan his day; nutten really new!  ha ha He made me laugh.  One reason that I had to laugh was that my plans look about the same sometimes. In fact, sometimes I can even read my plans!  I asked him what he had on his notebook.  He told me what each one meant.  What a hoot!

I was with a friend recently who told me this—I have some immediate family who has dementia.  He used to tell me about Kurt Warner time after time (i.e. he really likes this guy).  Then as time went along, he couldn’t remember all the story soooo I had to help him with parts of the story.  Now, he can’t remember Kurt Warner at all and I must tell him the story.  Now that is tough to take folks.  My friend is a very good person with a good heart; my kind of person.  This is erv’s 2 cents worth—Dementia, I hate you; you stink! A friend I make in AZ playing pickleball is going on a 2-month mission/volunteer trip to South Africa.  I told her that I am envious.  Arlene and I talked about doing this sort of thing when we retired. Not to be! Dementia, I hate you; you stink.  Such is life.

A person can be tough and talk tough but when you gotta go, you gotta go (i.e. folks aren’t soooo tough then let me tell ha).

Our friends, Evan and Lindie, hiked up to Wind Care in the Usery Mts. in AZ the other day. They said that the web site said it was moderate and the ranger station said it was difficult.  Evan said to Lindie at a more difficult spot-- Suck it up cupcake and let’s get going!  He said he heard someone say that a few times. ha ha  If it’s moderate or difficult, it’s still tough for most folks no matter how you rate it.  Arlene and I have hiked to Wind Cave a couple of time and I would say it is moderate compared to going up to the Flat Iron in the Superstition Mts. let me tell ya. Now that is difficult.  Everything, including what is tough, is relevant now isn’t it.  Such is life.

I watched the Men’s Final Four and a little of the Women’s Final Four.  I was amazed how physical the women were.  They were really physically tough. It almost hurt me to watch it how they beat on each other and how they fell down etc.  That has to be (i.e. my opinion) really taught and coached.  Women, by nature, aren’t that physical (i.e. they are tough in many ways, but they don’t beat on each other instinctively)—they are usually sweet (i.e. my opinion). I know in our culture we are seeing more woman getting into physical occupations and guys getting into more traditionally woman occupations but still the percentages are rather small (e.g. not tooooo many female diesel mechanics).  You just don’t see many gals doing mass murders with K14s or bombing places (i.e. gals would rather learn how to put their face on etc.).  I don’t think most little girls play with guns and cars or watch violent videos or play violent video games.  Mainstream news never talks about the percentages of boys of fatherless homes who become violent and who comprise a large percentage of the prison population.  My opinion, that is a huge massive problem of our society.  But it seems that very few talk about that.  Maybe cause it’s not a vote getter (i.e. maybe not politically correct)!  What do you think of that?  That is what I thought.  I feel real bad for males and females who are in an abusive situation or a fatherless home (i.e. such a disadvantage—my opinion).  The government can throw money at it but I don’t think money is the answer.  I tell you what, those women basketball players were tough (i.e. physically and mentally)!

MissPerfect, who looks really tough (i.e. you can decide how you interpret the word tough either one of two ways) says—Women can take more pain (i.e. tougher) than men; men when they get sick are like little cry-babies)!  AlbertHammer says—Ya but it seems that women cry a lot easier; they cry about anything and everything (i.e. crying physically or crying like complaining vocally); they don’t seem very tough.  But it’s tough to tell if their crying is fake or real (i.e. a manipulative maneuver maybe)!  Saturday question—Do you think guys like gals who are real aggressively tough or gals who are tender, very kind hearted and sweet or maybe a gal who has some of each?  I have my opinion on that; you do toooo I bet. Such is life.

Our son, daughter-in-law and Charlie and Rookie came last Sunday—We have watched the Masters together for many years.  It’s a tradition like no other.  What a fun time we had.  ANYWAY, an acquaintance told me about his Masters’ experience this week.  It was Easter Sunday and his son and family were over for Easter dinner.  His son told him that a friend had tickets to the practice round for Monday but couldn't go.  He said he could have the tickets.  Sooooo he and his son decided to go.  They left at 2:30 and it took them 20 hours of driving (i.e. ran into snow) and got there the next morning at 10:30. They stayed until 5 and then drove the 16-hour trip back home. Now you have to be pretty tough to do that. 

This public opinion is tough for me to take. It looks like I’m in the minority again.  WorldClassLarry says—erv, remember that the majority isn’t always right.  I read what Dr. J wrote while eating my oatmeal with a half a banana on it--Last fall, Life Way Research released a study showing that less than half of U.S. evangelicals “strongly agree” with core biblical tenets. About the same time, another study showed that most people in Western nations no longer believe in heaven or hell. In his final epistle, Paul told Timothy to continue in the things he had learned, for all Scripture is inspired by God. The time will come, Paul said, when people will not endure sound doctrine but will accumulate teachers who will say what they want to hear (2 Timothy 3:14–4:5). ItchieBitchie says—If I don’t believe in the core biblical tenets or if there is a heaven and hell, it is tough for me to believe what the Bible says! I want my cake and eat it tooooo; my life is pretty much about me.

LeBron James has played in all 82 games this year of the NBA.  You have to be pretty tough to do that.  How about this, he has averaged 76+ games in 15 years. That is incredible folks.  He is 6’8” and 250 pounds of solid muscle and maybe the greatest player ever. I wonder if it makes a huge massive difference that he works out an hour a day every day!  Maybe he’s just a tough guy!  

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-: 

erv 

MyFriendJean says--It should be our main interest in this world to secure an interest in the next.

P.S. Alzheimer's caregivers--you gotta be tough.  You gotta!

MyBigSister (i.e. only in age) sent me these songs to listen to.  For those of you who are affected by someone you care about or have cared about who has/had dementia, they are touching.

I'm Not Going To Miss You by Glenn Campbell      

She's A Stranger In His Mind by Mark Brinkman       

jaded

I have no agenda in this “It’s Saturday” or for that matter, any other of “It’s Saturdays.”  I’m just jawin’ with you folks.  If we don’t have an agenda, life is a lot more fun (i.e. live our lives livin’). When we do that, good usually always happens.  Ok, I might have a subliminal agenda; that being trying to make you think a little (i.e. if that is possible ha ha I think you all can except for one of you (i.e. toooo bull headed)! ha ha).  Soooo relax and act your shoe size and not your age!!!! Let’s move on!

This horse looks jaded?  You ever feel like you have had enough or toooo much of something?  I have but I get bored easily (i.e. I’m probably not normal—who is normal anyway).  I say many times that we are all a little mentally ill but just to different degrees.  But you have to have a bench mark to compare normal toooooo.  I might think you are normal but others don’t.  Soooo there you go!  Such is life.

Usually folks can only take soooo much of something or of some folks (i.e. enough is enough).  When that time happens, usually something happens.  Usually separation from the person or event.  If you would eat all you could of your favorite food at anytime you want, well, you would at some point have had enough (i.e. get sick of the food or get sick because of the food).  You become jaded. As the song goes—After you been having steak for a long time, beans beans taste fine.  The other day I had a hot dog at Kwik Star.  I haven’t had a hot dog for a long time; maybe a couple of years ago at a football game.  It looked good.  It was!

MisslPerfect says—I can only tolerate soooo much of my brother-in-law and then it’s time to have some separation.  GeorgeTheCrook (i.e. who might have been genetically edited) says—I think the wives of some of my buddies are ok but I could never be around them all the time; they would drive me crazy; I think some of them drive my buddies crazy tooooo; that’s why they work a lot and/or have a lot of hobbies.  SusieQ says—That goes both ways you know erv.  I’m sure it does.  Maybe that is why over 50% of marriages end up in divorce.  I was part of a conversation with a couple of pickleball buddies (i.e. one female and on male).  I just listened. They were talking about common school mates they had in high school.  It was very interesting.  Then they talked about that they both got married way young—she said, you know you’re young when you need your parents to sign soooo you can get married.  They both had two kids by their marriages and both got divorced after that.  The guy said—We were kids having kids; way to young to get married.  I think they felt a little jaded but I don’t know. 

The doctor told the husband, “I’m sorry, but we got to put your wife in a psychiatric hospital because her mind is completely gone.”  The husband looked at the doctor and said, “I’m not surprised because she has been giving me a piece of her mind for the last 15 years!” ha ha

Maybe part of the problem is we all don’t hear the same (i.e. especially when we get older).  I don’t understand why folks can’t discuss differences of opinions without getting soooo upset and fell jaded and become crazy.  I just don’t understand that.  It’s unrealistic to expect everyone to agree about everything (i.e. absolutely no one does). We often have legitimate, honest disagreements and differing opinions, but we can disagree without being disagreeable can’t we or not (e.g. the same diamond looks different from different angles). Soooooo I would ask you to listen to some one’s different opinion about something: would you do it?  Maybe just sit back and don’t say anything but listen and then say – interesting! JoeBlow says--Maybe they are right and I’m wrong.  Could be.  ANYWAY, remember, you can’t win a pissing match with a skunk! 

I recently went to a bank and said—I’m soandso and I want to close my account. She cut me a cashier’s check and then asked if this is because of the low interest (i.e. why I was moving on)—yes, it is—I will pass that on to management.  Why was she and the bank concerned?  It wasn’t because I was a nice guy folks; it was all about the money (i.e. they make money off my savings).  BUT she was trained to have good "conflict resolution" (i.e. didn’t burn any bridges).  I went away happy and I might do business with them again (i.e. if they get their interest rates higher). They know what they are doing.  Don’t kid yourself. But, it's harder to get a customer back once you lose them.  

If I read the Bible correctly, I think it says that two key qualities that are very good are being humble and being a good listener. It seems that most folks have a problem with both. The press said that Billy Graham was really good at both.  My hero, Abraham Lincoln was said to be good at both.  It appears that those qualities are very good.  Folks who always think they are right and make a lot of noise, well, we get real sick of them real fast (i.e. at least I do).  Do you know any folks like that (i.e. regular rhinestone cowboys)?  Are we like that?  If folks disagree, it doesn’t mean we give up on finding a solution. We may need to continue discussing and even debating, but we do it in a spirit of harmony.  We might bury the hatchet, not necessarily the issue. I’m maybe different but I like to hear others’ opinions if they don’t act crazy.  If they become crazy, well, I will just move on (i.e. I had enough—become jaded). 

 C.S. Lewis wrote this in his book Mere Christianity about humility.

A pickleball friend who I made in AZ text me this to ponder (i.e. sharing with her permission)—"Went to an Easter service on Saturday, then FOS sunrise service on Sunday. John was good as usual. You know how Jesus had to suffer for our sins? Well what if God looks at couples: You/Arlene or Nathan/me, for example, and thinks to himself, ‘I am confident about one of the two, but the other one gives me major concern.’ (This would be u and I, as N and A are already humble, kind, etc.). Then He thinks, ‘how can I reach these stubborn, proud children of mine??’ Maybe, by making someone they love suffer for us? If so, did it affect the change God was after? Did it work?  Am I a better person in God's sight (more compassionate, kinder, less proud, less dependent on money for security) because of Nathan's suffering? What change did God want to effect in me? Maybe, it's not about me at all!!! Maybe he had a completely different purpose. I don't know, but I trust him and pray that he will continue to mold and shape me.  Does life happen for you or does life happen to you?”  Now that is thought provoking and humbling (i.e. my opinion)! 

It is The Masters week; a tradition unlike any other! ANYWAY, last year The Masters was won by Sergio Gracia.  He is and was a good player for many years but could never win a major.  The announcers were talking the other night that they think the reason why he won was he made a major change in his life.  He got ride of his "woe to me" attitude and has a much more positive attitude (i.e. got rid of his demons).  They think there is a major, noticeable difference in his life.  Maybe he somehow, recognized it and moved on.  Saturday question--Do you really think that folks have demons? Do you?

WoldClassLarry (i.e. who tells the truth unvarnished) says--It is my opinion that each area of our lives reveals deep truths about us. The way we treat every area of life—food, work, faith, and family—reveals what we believe and value.  Sooooo have you ever thought—I have had enough of how I have been acting or thinking (i.e. I’m sick of it).  It’s time to move on (i.e. be proactive); I can’t stomach it anymore; I can’t handle it anymore; I’m sick and tired of myself?  We have a tendency to talk about others, but we don’t talk about ourselves (i.e. or take any action).  I have made a decision (i.e. encouraged by our children and spouses) to have more home care for Arlene.  I have also heard it many times from many of you folks that it will be good for Arlene and really good for me.  I am coming up with some ideas of what I’m going to do with my time which I have not had for a while.  One idea that I am probably going to do (i.e. suggested by SoupJudy) is volunteer helping others--it is good for me and something I enjoy—rewarding a.k.a. refreshing).  Got any other ideas for me?  A pickleball buddy and I were talking about summer.  He said summer is his busy time; he does seminars on how to teach psychology to high school teachers all over the country.  Wow, that sounds like fun and probably a good money maker for you.  I make a small amount of money; I decided that when I retired, I wanted to do something I really enjoyed and not do it for the money. A friend gave me an idea of something to do that I really enjoy and might make some money at the same time (i.e. I like that),

BigMindJake (i.e. who has a lot of runway ahead of him) says--Repetitive thoughts become our deep-seated beliefs, and these are lived out in our actions. It’s easy to say the right things: I believe in being connected to God. But if we never have time for His Word or people, our words are meaningless. Although it is easy to deceive ourselves. As we look at our actions and where our time is going, we discover our beliefs and values. Saturday question—What are your values and beliefs?

SusieQ says—Ok, there are times when it surely looks like things are not going to change (i.e. a very strong possibility).  Sooooo maybe it’s better to quit hitting your head against the wall (i.e. quit the pain) and move on.  Much of the stuff isn’t that important anyway.  Why be bitter or upset; just be nice (i.e. keep your mouth shut) and move on when you are jaded.  Sooooo you don’t agree with others; big deal.  Many folks do just that.  LuckieEddie (i.e. who is always the employee of the month) says—Sometimes I just can’t stomach it any more soooo I have to move on (i.e. enough is enough—I have had enough; I can’t put up with it any more).  In Milwaukee, it is said, there is a bar on every corner.  If you have had enough of a bar, you just go to the next corner.  In Grand Rapids, MI, it is said, there is a church on every corner. If you have had enough of a church, you just go to the next corner.  When I watched the videos of “The West.” It was said several times that when the new towns would spring up, one of the first businesses that was built was the saloon.  In fact, they said for every church there were 10 saloons.  I have no idea what that means.  Do you?

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFreindJean says—Laughing is good exercise. It is like jogging on the inside.

BTW (i.e. by the way)

SusieQ (i.e. who considers “in style" to be the cloths she has in her closet) says—erv, sometimes I have no idea what you are trying to say in your “It’s Saturdays.”  SusieQ, that is understandable as sometimes I don’t even understand myself. Soooo don’t get sooo excited about it. You may interpret it the way you want (i.e. there will be no test).  No problem.  I don’t feel bad as on the front page of the Sunday paper, there is a story about this gal who is 105.  They asked her how come she lived to 105?  She said—I have no idea!

I tried to read the book A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking.  I quit as I had no idea what he was saying!  I asked MIengineerJim if he has read it.  He said he has tried several times but Hawking talks over his head (i.e. I guess he was saying he too had no idea what he was saying).  BTW, it’s hard to get over MIengineerJim’s head according to his wife ha ha.  After Hawking’s first edition in 1996, it was touted as the best-selling book of science ever.  But, it was also touted as the best-selling book of science ever--never read!!!!  I guess others couldn’t understand it like me.  ha ha

AmyTheWriter says—"As a woman, I’ve observed firsthand how the things I say can unintentionally puzzle the men in my life.” I wonder why that is?  Sooooo folks, BTW, seeeee, others puzzle others tooooo. I wonder why that is? But according to AmyTheWriter, she and I are both normal (i.e. that might be questionable)!  Crazy!  Normal in that we can drive others crazy because they don’t understand us. I bet we don’t understand them either.  FantasticBetty says—All brains don’t think alike! When I have communication with folks who’s thinking about stuff is just way different than my thinking, I try to be very careful how I communicate with “these type of folks.”  They don’t get me and I don’t get them.  Flip the pancake—There are folks who “think very much alike” with you and maybe even me.  In our office, we had a gal who thought very much like me.  I didn’t have to explain much to her as she knew what I was thinking.  It was almost scary.  I don’t know if she was cursed or blessed!  ha ha Such is life.

FreeankenstineLyle says--We have to be soooo careful what we say as many don’t understand us and we could easily get into trouble soooo I become very generic with my communication.  It appears that it might take a lot of fun out of life (i.e.my opinion). It is just too bad.  GeorgeTheCrook says—We need to laugh at ourselves more; don’t take ourselves soooooo serious.  We aren’t that important folks.  Laugh at stuff!  Life is a lot more fun when we can do that (i.e. my opinion).  KnowitallKate says—I talk to myself, because there are times I need expert advice. Jackpot!!!!

I got a book with a note from a cousin.  The note said—"Dear erv, A huge hug for Arlene.  I think you’ll enjoy the book especially the first part.  I didn’t always agree with his feelings and belief later in his life.”  BTW, did you see that she didn’t agree with the author?  See it happens all the time.  MyCouz is a good person with a good heart, my kind of person but obviously she thinks for herself and has her opinions! ha ha Her poor husband!   ha ha    I enjoyed the book, A Soul from Minnesota.  The author, Allen Nohre, talked about his life growing up in Elbow Lake, MN and now living in Carefree, AZ. He says he was called by God, as he sat in a farm truck as a kid, to be a pastor in the Lutheran denomination.  He changed from a Lutheran pastor to the Jungian psychology later in life (i.e. I think from more conservative to more liberal). I find that quite interesting.  I wonder why. I’m going to contact him and see if he will tell me, if he really knows. He might have no idea!  I thought about anther cousin who was raised in a very conservative church denomination but now appears to be more liberal.  I asked him why he changed.  He said—I never did buy into some of the thinking I was raised with.  Saturday question—Do folks who are more liberal ever become more conservative?  What do you think? That is what I thought. 

BTW, I was having breakfast with a friend (i.e. a happy barn rat) the other day and he said to me—You and I do things the way we do because we are who we are.  We are not very easily going to change.  He was telling me about a friend of his who once his wife was diagnosed with dementia, he divorced her.  The guy just moved on and found a new model.  My friend’s wife has Alzheimer’s.  He is and will be very loyal to her.  Why?  Very simple folks, he is who he is. 

I read this in the paper sooooo it must be right that nearly half of seniors die owning less than $10,000 in financial assets and that percentage is growing rapidly. I can hardly understand that when I look around with all the seemingly wealth.  It also said that debt among older Americans is soaring. It is not unusual for seniors to die in debt.  What!  BTW, most often, children are not responsible for the debt of their parents it said.  Here is what I don’t understand, other than from ethical and moral points of view, why not have some fun and die with a huge massive unsecured debt?   JoeBlow says—I wonder sometimes if our government is taking that approach (i.e. Treasury Bills and Notes are worthless when the government dies soooo they are just borrowing more money—enjoy today, die tomorrow! 

The paper also said that in the next 20 years huge massive amounts of money will change hands to the young guns (i.e. timing was good for making money for the Baby Boomers). SusieQ says—A couple of easiest ways to acquire a huge massive amount of money is to marry it or inherit it.  LuckieEddie says—When my parents die, I will go from debt to being a millionaire; soooo, why do I want to work soooo hard now?  BUT folks, those are best-laid plans of mice and men (e.g. LuckieEddie, wonder if you die first).  LuckieEddie says—That would be tooooo bad; that wouldn’t be fair; I have been making plans for years to spend that million!

BTW, Arlene and I are long time friends with a couple.  He is conservative, and she is liberal.  He watches FOX news and she watches Public Television news.  I have a friend who told me that his wife is super liberal, and he is conservative.  She told him that if he watches FOX news, she won’t sleep with him.  Both of these couples have been married for a lot of years and seem to get along ok and love each other.  Are you kidding me!  I think that is funny.  Such is life.

BTW, do you think marches impact and change the government (i.e. the government is the people)?  I mean like the March for Our Lives.  It would appear to me that they might and sometimes do. They will for sure if they affect the majority of the voters (i.e. legislators like to keep their offices; it’s all about the money folks).  Through the years endless lists of groups have protested, marched, rallied, cried and pleaded for changes. The question is if whether these young people who call themselves “the mass-shooting generation” will fade into the background or continue.  Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, an activist, spoke at Iowa State this last week, and said— “In order to justify our time on this planet, we have to do good things. It doesn’t pay well, but you got to take that sacrifice.”  He also said when asked what parents could tell their politically active kids about the potential backlash they could receive for speaking out--“You have to accept it: you can’t become an activist without accepting the backlash.” AverageJoe asks--Where do all those kids get all that money to travel and protest?  There might have to be another protest to get money for the protests. SlimySlick says—Wouldn’t it be cheaper and easier to just pray for them? Saturday question—What kind of person likes to protest?  Another question—Do you think Stormy Daniels is telling the truth?  CadillacJack says—There is three sides to every story, my side, their side and the truth! Everyone has an opinion. CrazyMarvin says--Usually there is more to the story than what meets the eye!

I think (i.e. my opinion) that the coaches who are successful in today’s culture are the ones who have adapted to the new game and to the new 20-year olds.  Those who haven’t adapted or won’t adapt, aren’t in the tournament finals.  Now you don’t have to change and adapt, but you can’t compete in the new culture.  I think that applies to business, church, family, etc.  A friend (i.e. maybe 50) and I talked about how he had to adjust and change his business in order to compete in the world today.  He said he had tooooo; If you don’t, you will not be in business very long.  BTW, adapting can be “nerve racking!” RealityBob says--Boring boring, just doesn’t work in the new culture. AverageJoe says—All these changes drive me cuckoo! I don’t want any changes unless it makes me more money; then I can and will be happy to change!!!!

BTW do you think some folks are more injury prone than others (i.e. maybe more klutzy than others)? A friend told me about a mutual friend who fell.  He said that some folks seem more injury prone.  Her fall was a plunge, not a crash and surely not a flash crash, just a poor performance.  I think she got away with it a little (i.e. it could have been worse). I was reading the paper at the library the other day and a gal comes in.  I thought it was soandso, but I didn’t know for sure.  She really gained a lot of weight since I saw her a couple of years ago.  I heard her talk to the librarians and it had to be her.  When I left, I asked the librarians if that was soandso.  Yes, it was.  I said, I didn’t recognize her; she has really changed since I saw her a few years ago.  One of the librarians said—We all change.  Now ain’t that the truth (i.e. mentally and physically). 

People tell me I have changed.  What!  I don’t think I have (i.e. I don’t think they know what they are talking about).  My morals, values and believes have not changed (i.e. not tooooo much anyway).  I asked them how I have changed. You aren’t as outgoing or as engaging as you use to be (i.e. I think I’m the same).  Yes, I have had to make some adjustments in my life style being a 24/7 caregiver for a lot of years (i.e. Arlene has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s almost 9 years ago).  Yes, that probably has changed me a little and certainly my life style some (i.e. how can it not). It’s maybe a gradual process that I don’t notice that I have changed, if I have changed.  ItchieBitchie says—BTW, aren't we killing ourselves -- our health, our relationships, our sense of joy and wonder -- for our jobs?  We are sacrificing our lives for money, but it's happening so slowly that we barely notice.

BTW, “mymucholderCouz” as she calls herself, says--I just know in my heart, there are days in your life when you wonder where God is, He is there Erv, holding you at all the bad times.  Alzheimer’s is an ugly horrible disease and when I say that in a group it’s easy to see the ones who have never experienced it, they either glaze over or have a non-look. I just keep praying for you and Arlene. I love you little Erv

BTW, last weekend we had 11 inches of snow according to the paper soooo it must be right.  Our neighbors (i.e. good folks with good hearts, my kind of folks) helped me clean our drive.  They said to me—Don’t you wish you were in AZ? I got an email from CousenWarrenFromOmaha who is in AZ.  He said—We had a good time in AZ and are heading on home. It will feel good to get home and get in our normal routine again.  Huh, interesting.  I think he is saying that home is a good place.  It is for us; we like home (i.e. Arlene especially). But I must admit, the winter was long for me! And it continues! Will it ever end!!!!! I missed AZ.  But it's not to be! And that is ok with me. Such is life.

BTW, Easter is very important for Christians.  We believe that God sent his only Son to die on the cross and then rose from the dead and ascended into heaven.  God did this to pay the price for our sins.  He tells us, “whoever confesses their sins and believes in Jesus as their Lord and Savor will have eternal life.”  That seems soooo easy now doesn’t it (i.e. it’s that easy folks).  JellyBeanBob says—erv, do you know my IQ and how many degrees I have?  I don’t believe that; it can’t be proven; it’s just a “fake” believe; I’m not that gullible (i.e.  pass the ham).  Well, JellyBeanBob, I believe that (i.e. don’t totally understand the details) and when I die and go to heaven—what a day of rejoicing that will be.  I believe that.  Like the song says—I can only imagine.  JellyBeanBob, I hope you ponder that and are touched.  Bingo!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says—Friends are the chocolate chips in the cookies of life.

I can't

The NCAA Long Range 3pt Sniper says—erv, you get all fired up about stuff that I could care less about.  Folks, remember that when reading this “It’s Saturday.” Ok NCAA Long Range 3pt Sniper, you might not agree with me about some stuff but my experience is--Folks with good attitudes have a much better life (i.e. maybe  I‘m in the minority of the population, maybe). Here is some slam dunk stuff—AverageJoe says--Attitude is more important than intelligence or ability, or talent.

 

Have you ever noticed that we aren’t interested or not as interested until it pertains to us?  Then many times, something can happen to us and then it becomes quite important (e.g. wife has Alzheimer’s).  I read something that got my attention recently—I didn’t care about those folks who live across the river until my daughter moved there.  That mentality can be about situations or folks everywhere, even across the street where you live or at the church you might attend or even in our families.  Folks can be “faceless folks”, until they become part of our life.  Then the situation changes. Or let’s make it real personal—the other person has cancer but now I do.  

Have you read Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl?  If not, I suggest you give it a read.  A great attitude book (i.e. a classic).  It’s about “I can’t” meaning a person can do way more than we think we can but it depends on our attitude.  Here a couple of his quotes from the book: “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” I have read it several times and it is good (i.e. my opinion)!

ItchieBitchie, who is one vote shy of being kicked out of the car pool, says--I respect the “I can’t” folks more than the “maybe” folks.  The “maybe” folks can drive a guy crazy.   I maybe can have lunch with you, I maybe can help you, I maybe can play golf with you. That is like having no commitment; if nothing better comes up I will accommodate you, but I will see.  MissPerfect says--“I maybe” folks are just that, “maybe folks.” SusieQ says—I really like the “I can folks!” says—Ya got to realize and appreciate that some days will be good and some will not as good.  Such is life.

And his coach said to him—Son, there is a reason why they don’t guard you when you are at the 3-pt line; quite shooting! 

I can’t believe it!  Recently a friend told me that a common friend was screwed up by his dad.  Another friend told me recently that another common friend’s wife screwed up another common friend.  In both cases, I think my friends could be right (i.e. my opinion).  CrazyMarivin says--The mind is delicate and can be affected. I recently had a friend tell me about a common friend’s childhood (i.e. that I never knew before).  I was quite surprised, and it shows maybe why this friend is as he is (i.e. good or bad do you think?  In this case it was good).  Is all this fair? I really wonder.

Folks, sit on this. I heard a player who just made the winning bucket to win a game in the NCAA tournament say in his post-game interview—I give all the Glory to God.  Maybe soooo!  Soooo the player who missed the next shot to lose the game, I wonder if he gave God all the Glory.  I’m confused here folks.  Does God not like Arlene so He let her have Alzheimer’s or a person who dies of cancer while another person lives?  I believe God is in control and lets things happen, but it is hard to understand for me with my earthly mind; baffling (i.e. my opinion).  It is hard for me to give God the Glory as I wipe Arlene’s butt (i.e. that is reality folks—don’t try to bs me with "fake" verbiage)!  I can’t understand God (i.e. His understanding I cannot fathom). Life is not fair! The only thing that is fair is the Butler County Fair and that is in June. Let’s face it, it is confusing.  Folks who have everything going their way a.k.a. the earthly winners, have no idea, not a clue.  I don’t want stuff to happen to them, but they really don’t understand.  Many of you folks know exactly what I’m talking about (i.e. it isn’t nutten new—it’s very real to you if you are there or have been there or will be there). Such is life.

Yogi Berri said--It's getting late early. I can’t believe those numbers; and those are through June it says!!!!  Do you get excited about living?  Are you thankful about being alive?  We are not in charge of our birth although some folks believe in and do abortions.  I just can’t understand how some of society can get all in such a rage when some dog is mistreated but some of society don’t care if we kill unborn children.  I just can’t understand that (i.e. many folks disagree with me). There seems to be something terribly wrong with that (i.e. my opinion).  Ok, we sometimes aren’t in control of our death; we just die.  Although we generally will spend millions to prolong life for a few days it appears.  A friend and I were talking about the “laying on of hands” by pastors and elders for healing.  We both agreed that it might be a form of healing.  I asked a onesmartpastor what his take is on this.  He said, if I understood him correctly, he believes that it can be effective but maybe not by its self (e.g. if an obese person wants to lose weight and has the “laying on of hands” done and doesn’t diet and exercise, I can’t understand how it can be very effective).  An obese person can’t sit on the couch and eat chips and expect to lose weight, can they? SusieQ says—Ya that would be stretching the wish for a miracle pretty far but maybe it’s possible (i.e. maybe that person would lose their appetite or get a stomach problem or something even more bizarre like having diarrhea for two years—the loss of food consumption and exercising by going to the bathroom a lot!   “I never have any difficulty believing in miracles, since I experienced the miracle of a change in my own heart.” Augustine

An announcer broadcasting a NCAA basketball tournament game said once again (i.e. they say it all the time)—They don’t need a turnover now!  Da!  And the color commentator says—They’re down by one with 10 seconds left in the game; they need a bucket! Da!

GeorgeTheCrook says—It appears our society doesn’t call a spade a spade (i.e. it has to be politically correct—no profiling).  It seems to be a real problem; we want to profile folks to prevent murders, but we can’t profile folks.  Even if we profile them, what are we going to do with them.  And who is going to decide if they are a certain way on the profile chart? I read recently that the only folks who will listen to complainers are their mommies and other losers.  Think about that.  JoeBlow says—It’s easy to complain (i.e. anybody can do that—riot and make a lot of noise) but it appears that it is hard to come up with a solution (i.e. those that can are the good ones).  Most of this is my opinion—I might be in the minority with my thinking; very possibly—more than likely (i.e. I’m profiling myself).  The profile chart probably would be—erv is a loser and is just complaining!!!!!!

SusieQ says—Theories, change, and over time paradigms, methods and popular fads float past us like translucent ghosts.  Each, for a period of time, becomes real and solid and even the “truth” before it fades off into history.

I read this in the paper soooo it must be right that some NFL teams are letting some major name players goooo to clear salary cap space to make their teams better.  I also read that Loew’s is ending J.J.’s sponsorship on the NASCAR circuit.  In both cases they said—It’s simply business.  It appears that “It’s simply business” never happens with anything that is funded by tax dollars—I can’t understand that.  I had breakfast with a friend who now lives on the West Coast (i.e. an ex farm boy from Butler Co, IA).  He was in management of a large American company.  He told me this story--A fellow management person was a real rude, obnoxious, arrogant guy who everyone disliked (i.e. even his boss).  Soooo I asked him how come the company put up with him?  Because he drove his folks hard and production was very good in his different sites that he managed--basically they put up with him because he made the company money.  

I can’t understand how we say one thing but do another (i.e. are we crazy or what).  We just don’t face reality (i.e. my opinion).  The destruction of the family and what we expose our children toooooo is not good folks.  C’mon, face reality!  There is no other way to think about it.  It’s all about the money folks if we like it or not.  Such is life.

I did something I never did before. Yes, I did!  I went to a 10:30 a.m.movie by myself while the home care provider was with Arlene. Now that was different.  I saw, I Can Only Imagine. Now there is a good movie (i.e. my opinion and other’s opinions as well) which is not about killing or sex but a true-life story about hope and good stuff and some bad stuff of life—some reality of life (i.e. facing reality). It came about from the song I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe.  I went on Tuesday and the theater had 9 shows that day; the10:30 a.m. time was about 70% full.  There must be a demand to see it and the theater was glad to accommodate the folks (i.e. it’s all about the money--when the grill is hot, it's time to grill the dogs). I read that this Christian inspirational movie is very well received by many folks (i.e. Believers and non believers alike) because of the song and the story. WorldClassLarry says--You can take the whole family but the10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning show was pretty much all seniors.  It was $5; maybe that was the reason!  ha ha A senor friend told me that one of the reasons he likes the song is that he actually can understand the words!!! Da!

3pt rocket launcher says--I don’t care what you say, my bracket is right, but the teams are wrong!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. )-:

erv

MyFriendJean says—Advice is more acceptable if it doesn’t interfere with our plans.

P.S. When a man with experience meets a man with money, the man with money gets the experience, and the man with experience gets the money.