odd

These words seem to be sorta kinda odd to me: Kerfuffle, dissimulate, whippersnapper, bibble, gobbledygook, and cattywampus. Sooooo what makes them odd do you think?

“When I started to count my blessings, my whole life turned around.”—Willie Nelson  Now that might seem odd to some of you and to others it makes complete sense! Soooo who is odd?

“In a chronically leaking boat, energy used devoted to changing vessels is more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks.”—Warren Buffet  Now that might seem odd to some of you and to others it makes complete sense. Sooo who is odd?

Dr.J says—"The key to victory involves our mental diet (i.e. that’s not a head spinning idea). If we feed our thoughts with rotten images and rancid concepts, we’ll be spiritually sick. But if we feed our minds with what is true, noble, just pure, lovely, and praiseworthy, they will be constantly revived and renewed (Philippians 4:8).” It’s maybe like what we put in will come out! Or what we think is what we'll be! I have a friend who I think has two dogs fighting in their heart and soul; a black dog and a while dog; and those dogs maybe have been there all their life; I don’t know. And this friend feeds both of them it seems. My friend is sorta kinda a mugwump (i.e. or what I call a mugrumper—the old bird has their mug on one side of the fence and their rump on the other). That seems odd to me. Why they would do that!

RickyRick says—"We all have an “I” problem: I want it my way; I will do my thing; I have to take care of myself first; I don’t have time for others; I am the most important thing.” It appears to me that many folks are at the mercy of others and have no choice (i.e. including me). Others might send a rocket, and others are dead as an example; one of many situations. I question myself if I or you have any control of any others. Are others at our mercy and grace! What do you think? Do we have power over others? Do others have power over us?

I try to stay in the moment, but it isn’t always easy to impossible. It is very odd how our mind affects us in soooo many ways. OneSmartPerson says--Staying in the moment means embracing the present with all its quirks and mysteries. It's about acknowledging the oddities around us while finding peace in the here and now. When life throws peculiarities our way, it's an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the diverse tapestry of our experiences. Take a deep breath, look around, and notice the small details—the rustle of leaves, the warmth of sunlight, the sound of laughter. These moments, though seemingly insignificant, weave together the fabric of our existence. By staying present, we can better understand the nuances of our journey and the lessons it offers. As we navigate the peculiarities of life, remember that each moment holds its own beauty and wisdom. Embrace the oddities, cherish the present, and let the flow of time guide you to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around us.

This might sound odd to you, and it might be odd!  I would like you to think about some of the accomplishments you have made in your life. Those major accomplishments might be accomplishments that no one else even knows about but are major to you. I want you to cherish them, enjoy them and let yourself feel good about them, reminisce with yourself about the good feelings, appreciate yourself, give yourself some ra ra! Even write them down! Admire them! We all have done some good stuff!

Another odd word to me that I never heard before is “formalist.” What can Judas teach us? For one thing, he shows us the danger as how John Bunyan described Judas in character. He called him a Formalist. Formalist is an outwardly religious person but inwardly unconverted. Formalism is having the appearance of faith without the reality; it’s talking the talk without walking the walk. They are not the real deal but a fake, they put on a show. SusieQ says—erv, it’s soooo hard for me to be real all the time; I can be a real phony at times; I'm quite good at it; I can really fake it at times; I'm sorta kinda maybe odd at times! Such is life.

Now I don’t think this is odd, no I don’t. I read while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it, that having a relationship with someone who we can share with, trust, depend on, and enjoy their company makes one’s life much better. Da! We need others! To have such a relationship gives humans a dynamite feeling. To add to that relationship is to love someone and to be loved by someone is a supreme feeling. I am thinking of a person who doesn’t seem happy or content and doesn’t seem to have such a great relationship soooo it appears. It appears that their life is in a quagmire! I would expect that many folks would like a great relationship. And there are many folks who have/had great relationships. And there are many folks who have a lot of scar tissue from relationships as well! Such is life.

The old saying is--We buy on rumor and sell on fact! This might seem odd to you but then again maybe not  A long-time friend a.k.a. point man responded this way when I asked him what his business marketing plan was maybe 4 years ago—“The marketing plan varies if you don’t put it in writing; it seems as though as time goes along we remember it differently.” Boy, that happens in ervie's life plan; it changes alright. Now that is odd or is it just realty!

My mentor told me—"A true gift has no strings attached. If there are strings attached, then it’s a business deal.” WorldClassLarry says—"It’s much like if you want recognition for a gift, then it’s advertising.”  When someone gets a gift and doesn’t understand why they got it, now that is really a gift, actually a special gift. But it might seem odd to some folks. Such is life.

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

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—The odds are always with you if you keep trying.

fascinated

I’m am constantly humbled! Humbled by events in my life, humbled by you folks, humbled by world events, humbled by just simple things! I’m just humbled. For the most part, it is a good feeling. GeorgeTheCook says--It can be a fascinating feeling! It can be! Or it can be a frustrating feeling! Yikes!

I guess the opposite of being fascinated is being frustrated or uninterested. I’m frustrated at times as well. I can choose to be frustrated with issues of the world or I can choose to be fascinated by them. It’s easy to be frustrated by them but harder, maybe, to be fascinated by them. I honestly believe it will be fascinating to follow the process of how the world is going to work through our current situation. Think about that folks!

The MI-Engineer says-- “Getting old is a fascinating thing. The older we get, the older we want to get.” Hey, we all are fascinated about that now aren’t we!  A friend who is 93 likes to be around older folks but tells me it is harder to find them any more. 90 year old Pete and 92 year old Repeat like to play chess together; Pete died, who was left! That old saying reminds me of this saying—I am happy because I’m grateful. I chose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy!

I suspect we can be constantly frustrated by the world or constantly fascinated by the world. ItchieBitche says—I know both kind of folks, but folks can’t be both at the same time for sure. Actually, many of you folks are very fascinating folks to me! (i.e. you can take that statement two different ways for sure) hahaha!  I had the great experience to be part of a buddiesdeckgroup this last winter. It was fascinating to all of us. The week before we left, we met and considered a project for next year. The group was split; some wanted to do it, some didn’t want to do it and others were on the fence. We all expressed our thinking and opinions (i.e. great open discussion) and we made a decision that was accepted by all (i.e. no hard feelings but a common decision that we thought was best). These guys fascinate me how they handle themselves.

Martin Luther described the dynamics of the Christian life (i.e. my life) this way: “This life is not health but healing; not being but becoming; not rest but exercise. We are not yet what we shall be, but we are growing towards it…This is not the end, but it is the road.” Now that can be fascinating or it can be frustrating!  Oh ya! It’s all how we look at it, my opinion!

We see it occasionally: Someone collapses to the floor upon hearing sudden and shocking news. Or more commonly we see folks burst out in tears upon some news. That sudden and shocking news might be fantastic or disastrous. Our reaction might be the same about an event that has happened in our life. And others can’t tell by looking at us which one happened to us. Is it joy or sorrow! I have never collapsed to the floor, but I have tingled and shuck and cried because of both emotions. Yes, I have! How about you?

No matter what group of folks we are a part of, there are many opinions (e.g. how the money should be spent). WorldClassLarry says—"That can be as simple as in a marriage or as complex as in the national government.” A while back I talked to a friend by phone who taught personal money management, and he explained to me once again that some money management principles are always the same and are primary no matter what folks think. ItchieBitchie says—"It’s not always easy being with other folks who we disagree with about money management. Yes, they might be family members, friends, neighbors or our government. Yes, some simply rub us the wrong way. They can hurt us, and we can disagree with them. Sometimes the problem is our own impatience, intolerance, stubbornness, and pride.”  WhoWhatMe! Moneyrooskie or is it Monkeyrooskie who says—Soooo what, I like the subsidy principle, the more free government money the better, send me more, I love it! SmartPantsMargret says, soooo what, it doesn’t bother me to get free money from the government! I like money anyway I can get it! Abraham Lincoln said—“I believe each individual is naturally entitled to do as he pleases with himself and the fruits of his labor, so far as it in no wise interferes with any other men’s rights.”

I’m fascinated by this! Generally, it doesn’t work very well if there are two chiefs in a project; it’s better to have one chief a.k.a. project manager and the other being just there and not saying much unless asked. JoeBlow says—It doesn’t work when we dance and both try to lead! What works best for you? Soooo Jeanne and I were at a floor company as she wanted some new flooring. I let her talk to the salesperson, and I went outside to watch this guy place a big dumpster in a tight area. He was really good doing it. When he got done, he got out of his truck and gave me a fun thumbs up sign with the expression “is it good.” I gave the thumbs up sign back and we both smiled. I think this experience went well for Jeanne and I and the dumpster driver and the salesperson (i.e. everyone was happy)!  SusieQ says—It’s just good project management!

Aristotle said this about 320BC—"Knowing yourself is the beginning of wisdom.” That was a long time ago, sooo maybe that is old-fashioned thinking or maybe it is just as true today!  Saturday question—How do we get to know ourselves? We might find ourselves fascinating or frustrating. hahaha I had some events happen to me (i.e. happenstance, na, I don’t think soooo) here in Yakima that I really got to know myself better, but I don’t know if I’m any wiser!  I think I am but that might just be my opinion! ANYWAY, the experiences got in my head and affected me positively! And no one else even knows it! Never will! Crazy huh!

The pastor at the Easter service we attended said that Jesus, our Savior, who rose from the dead is an intellectual challenge for many. For some, Easter is fascinating, some frustrating, some unbelievable, and some is a total belief.  For me, Jesus is risen indeed!

AverageJoe says—When we feel enthusiastic about what we are doing, we feel positive energy; it is very simple! It makes us feel fascinated!

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

erv

MyDeceasedFrindJean said--A friend is someone who reaches for our hand but touches our heart. 

PS I got several anonymous email encouragements last week. I say thanksamillion. I really liked them. Very uplifting! They were true gifts! No question about it. Keep pointin'! Nuttin but good will happen to you! Everyone needs encouragement sooooo encourage someone today! It's a fascinating feeling.

my take on it

My take on it isn’t always considered right, now that is for sure, I have found that out many times. In fact, I am at times in the minority in the room is my take on it (i.e. like the guy in the pic).  Take that into consideration when reading this "It's Saturday." Such is life.

I believe in the Biblical meaning of Easter (i.e. my opinion but yours might be different). Yes I do. It’s about repentance and humility (i.e. meaning change our minds; turn around; become humble). Easter is a good time to do that, my opinion. Maybe we want to rethink some of our basic assumptions about God and ourselves. Easter and spring make me feel "oh sooo good;" like new, fresh life. "April hath put a spirit of youth in everything." – William Shakespeare That’s my take on it! But remember folks, my opinions spring up like daffodils!

And your take on it might be different than my take on it, that is for sure. I have found that out many times and continue to have those experiences. It ain’t nuttin new. I have a friend who I respect who just leaves the room if the discussion gets boring or it is skewed or it isn’t a discussion anymore but folks who think they are absolutely always right and dominate the conversation (i.e. a lecture); he doesn’t argue but just leaves the room. I think that is a good maneuver. I respect him. He doesn’t argue his take on it. What do you think? There is an old saying—You can’t win a pissing match with a skunk! Maybe it’s better to just get up and leave the room! Or maybe just ignore them! Or at least, just keep our mouth shut and just listen and just smile. What do you think? That is what I thought!

I read that statement in the paper soooo it must be right! A longtime friend from Butler Co would say to me when I asked her how she is doing—"Better than some but not as good as others!” I sure hear a lot about the economy, and everyone is concerned about how it will affect them. My take on it is like what RickyRick says—"In God’s economy, success isn’t measured by our paycheck . . . but by the motives, methods, and meaningful impact of our efforts.” MoneyMosterAlfred says—"Money is just money; here today and gone tomorrow but I like my cars let me tell ya and also my winter holidays; soooo I’m saying I like my money! It’s all about the money for sure! Don’t kid yourself (i.e. my problem is that I don’t have enough time to use all my toys)!” And everyone is wondering how the economy will affect ME! ME gets a lot of attention let me tell ya; if it doesn’t affect my pocketbook, it’s not near as important. That’s my take on it! Abraham Lincoln said, “I cannot understand why men should be so eager after money. Wealth is simply a superfluity of what we don’t need.” TheGalNorthOfTown who is in full spring bloom, says to me—erv, you are toooo simple; you need more toys!

We usually have a destination where we are going that we like  (i.e. some place we are looking forward to). It might be the shopping mall, a vacation spot, a fishing hole, even the moon etc. Some destinations are just general and some very exact (i.e. like when we use GPS). Many seniors go to AZ as their destination for the winter. Many travel a long way like my Canadian friends who travel many miles to get there (i.e. when it’s winter in Canada, it’s 40 below--eh). CoachB says—"To get to a destination in life, we have to leave from where we are. If we don’t leave, then we will never get to a destination. It’s as simple as that! Da! But if we are comfortable where we are, then sometimes we don’t want to leave. In the big picture, we will never get to our destination in life if we don’t move from where we are!” That is his take on that! I think he is saying: if we just sit on the coach and eat chips it’s really hard to get to our destination and it gets harder the more we eat and sit! Saturday question—What is our destination in life anyway?

Your take on this might be different from the neighbor’s take!  Friends in the 55+ park where we winter have a neighbor who has two dogs. Our tin huts have 8 feet between them on each side and 8 feet to the neighbor’s in the back (i.e. pretty tight but it works, most of the time)! ANYWAY, our friends’ neighbor would take her dogs out to poop and pee but would take them to their 4 feet of rocks in their backyard and not to her own or to the dog park (i.e. they had no idea why she did this). And to top it off, she would not clean up the feces or spray down the pee. After some time, our friends had a conversation with her that she could not continue doing this. She couldn’t understand why it had to change (i.e. she must have had no common sense, or she thought her dogs’ excrements didn’t stink or were not repulsive)!  Da! It changed!!!! Da! Didn’t Robert Frost have a poem that said—Good fences make good neighbors?

Do we think that some folks talk and ack differently when around different folks? It appears to me that some do; I wonder if they are the same person! hahaha; they seem to switch gears or something. But others are always exactly the same. If my observation is correct, why is that? I wonder if sometimes they are in a different zone or sometimes in a different world depending on who they are talking to (i.e. sorta kinda Jekyll and Hyde). If my observation is correct, why do folks do that?

Have we ever thought about taking the high road (i.e. we might enjoy it)! What I mean is when some person presses our button or when there is tense exchange with a friend or family member, we offer them a concession or a compliment that brings down the temperature. Or say I always learn something from you, or I value your opinion. You might blow their socks off! It might even be fun. Remember folks, you can’t win a pissing match with a skunk no matter how hard you try! Soooo maybe just enjoy the situation! That’s my take on it! CadillacJack says—If any of you are staunch black and white folks, you won’t probably want to take the high road. Such is life.

Are humans always right? Da! Are major league baseball umpires always right in calling balls and strikes? Da!  I see in the spring training this year they let pitchers challenge strike and ball calls with automation deciding.  I never did understand why they just don’t use automated strike and ball calling as it is always right compared to human calls as they are sometimes wrong and those calls can play a major role in the result in a game. It seems to me that is sooo “black and white.” That’s my take on it!

I have relearned again how what we say to others and how we treat folks do affect others and also really affects me! Yikes!  Sometimes we won’t know for a long time and maybe never know. But it sure does feel good to hear from folks who were part of our lives from years past. Sooooo others like to hear from us how they have affected our lives from years past also. My take on it is that relationships are important, and it takes effort to maintain relationships.  Sometimes it just ain’t easy. And sometimes relationships just disappear for many reasons. BUT maybe we still think of those folks and they think about us. That is my take on it.

I know a guy who half of what he says isn’t true and the other half I don’t believe!  And others have the same feeling about that person. And some know DuaneTheWorm who only says what it takes to self-glorify himself or put himself in a better position; he never really cares about anyone else except himself. And then I know many of you who are very open and straight forward; you hold nothing back. You are as real as real can be! Guess who folks like to be around? Bingo! And of course, we all know folks who really like to blow themselves up or their family!  And we all know folks who don’t but would rather ask questions about others. Again, who do most folks like to be around. Ralph Waldo Emerson said--“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”  Nilis says—"Now, the expression of gratitude and the corresponding feeling is a magical practice that gets me in a beautiful state of peace, contentment, and, well, gratitude.” It seems like folks like to be around grateful folks!  That is my take on it! What is your take on it? That’s what I thought.

As a friend reminds me of what Will Rogers said—Never miss a good chance to shut up.

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

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—We began to move mountains when we start carrying away small stones.

sooooo what

We went wee wee wee all the way home! Yep, we are home in Yakima!

JackCanyonAtTheHooverDam says--This is sarcasm at it best this Saturday! Beware! Don't take any of of this "It's Saturday" serious or personal but if you want to, you may! hahaha

I'm busy right now, can I ignore you some other time.

The pastor in the church in AZ that we attended talked about the bad eggs in Jesus’ genealogy. He had folks raise their hands if folks know their genealogy two generations past, how about 5 generations ago,  how about the 17th century, how about the 16^th century and before that. Many raised their hands in their proud success. Then he said-- soooo what! He said basically in about a few generations, no one on this planet will remember very few of us. A friend from Butler Co tells me that 5 days after I left Butler Co, no one remembered me! hahaha  SusieQ, the queen of Butler Co, says--Who gives a rip. 

I think I noticed a difference in attitude in our 55+ park this year. Not the same excitement as years past. I asked around and the feeling seems mutual with other folks as well. How come? Canadian exchange rate is very bad, the uncertain financial future, and maybe the most prevalent one told to me by a friend is that it is a cyclical change that happens every sooo often (i.e. old folks move on and younger folks come in who have different ideas and ways of living). All of these reasons have happened many times before. Nuttin new! CasinoJoeVagas says—I really don’t care, sooo what! I'll see you at the crap table!

Oh great, another opportunity for you to be right.

Our culture doesn’t give a rip if you are a runner up; but everyone knows the #1; #1 gets the attention. SusieQ says--Our culture, for the most part, doesn’t really care if we are a good person but really cares that we are #1. I think SusieQ, that there are some folks who care if we are good folks and aren’t impressed with others who will do anything to be #1 (i.e. will sell their soul to the country store). WildWilly says--Soooo what, it’s no skin off my back.

A 80+ mother from Forks, WA said that her children really don’t like to talk to her. And when she does call them, they tell her right up front that they don’t want any of her advice. I wonder how that all came about! I don’t think I give much or any advice to our kids nor do they to me. Maybe I do but don’t realize it!  Could be! Maybe subliminal! Or they probably say, we heard it all many times before! They say--We are living our life the way we want toooo! It’s a different time! A different generation! Soooo there! 80+Elanor from Butte, MT says—Soooo what, It’s not my problem, unless they have to come back and live with me!

Oh, you are so modest. I almost didn't notice your giant ego.

I listen to conversations. Some folks tell an event/story and tell every little detail about it (e.g. about their cat playing with a toy). Most folks aren’t interested in all the little details, in fact, many times they aren’t even interested in our stories (i.e. our stories aren’t relevant to them but just to us). They basically say—sooooo what! Soooo maybe if we tell stories, we should try to keep them simple stupid! Maybe my kids aren’t interested in erv’s old folk stories (e.g. all our aches and pains)! I remember going to see an old, friend who was in bad physical health. He never talked about his issues but about something positive. I asked him why he does that. He said—If I talk negative all the time, no one will come and see me! MotorMouthEd says—Soooo what, I don’t give two hoots!

Abraham Lincoln said, "How miserably things seem go be arranged in this world! If we have no friends we have no pleasure; and if we have them, we are sure to lose them., and be doubly pained by the loss"

Soooo what’s the point! I read while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it--We can change the world more by changing our context a.k.a. attitude than by changing our content a.k.a. stuff. It’s our view a.k.a. our context is more important than our content! Euripides once said—“And why should we feel angry at the world? As if the world would notice!” Do you know folks who are angry at the world? JoeSixPack says, soooo what, it doesn’t bother me, let them be angry at the world if they want to! It's none of my business!

Wow, your story is so inspiring. It's really making me want to take a nap.

I was hiking up ‘er in ‘em mountains and a mountain biker turned around in front of me who's name was Chuck. I said to Chuck—It’s all down hill now—yep, I have 6.5 miles all downhill to the parking lot—you must be quite a biker—It’s one of my passions—how old are you anyway—60 but I’m retired; I have been very fortunate as my company was very successful—I have been to ER 42 times, had a concussion, 6 broken ribs, several broken bones, many stiches but last year was the worst as I broke my neck (i.e. he showed my his major scare)—are you crazy or what—It’s one of my passions—so what are your other passions—my other major passion is Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization, I spend a lot of time working with kids—wow—I’m looking for something like that when we get back to Yakima—I suggest you do it—I think I will look into that! BigEd says—Soooo what! Those other things don’t matter to me erv! I need to spend my retirement working on my golf game! JoeSmackTalk says--You might have a point there BigEd, I have seen you play and your golf game needs help but I doubt if your working on it will make any difference! Besides BigEd, who really cares if your golf score goes down from 110 to 105? You might not have kept score correct anyway!

I asked the lady sitting next to me as we were deplaning in Atlanta--Is Atlanta your home? Jeanne and I  had a nice little talk with her. She was a retired university president. A very delightful lady. She told us about her life—She was raised a privileged child and her children are privileged children. She said she has had a very good life. She told us that she spends part of her money on herself, eats part of her money (i.e. meaning her living expenses), she gives away part of her money and saves part of her money. But she said--My most important part of my life is my relationship with Jesus.  And to answer your question, I’m flying here to Atlanta to see a friend who is dying! BigShotHarvey says, soooo what, Whatever!

Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot you exist only when you need something.

CoachB says—People want change but don’t want to change; 99.9% of changes that happen is from within us. Think about that folks.  VioletStillwater says--And remember folks, a donkey in a tuxedo is still a donkey!  I was pondering while drinking my coffee early one morning this: how important is reassurance? I seem to think that it is soooo easy to make a change and just as easy to fall off the wagon. I and everyone needs reassurance. And where do we, our children, and grandchildren, our spouses and our friends get reassurance that they are doing what is right?  CactusPeteFromJackot,NV says—Soooo what, I couldn’t care less! It’s no big deal! It doesn’t matter to me! Who cares!

The mountainbikerChuck told me—It’s fun to work with kids who want to change but don’t have the opportunity compared to others who just want help but don’t want to change. JoeSmuck says, soooo what!  If folks don’t want to change, it’s not worth my time!

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

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean says--It's better to try and fail than to never know and always wonder.

I'm not sure

Benny behind the fish counter at WinCo helped me—I said to Benny, I think I want a pound of crab/shrimp salad but I’m not sure; do you like that salad—I have never had it but it’s my most popular soooo it must be good—sooo, if it’s your best seller, I will take it! AverageJoe says—I always want what everyone else wants; if it’s good for the goose, it’s good for the gander! Yabut I’m not sure about that; if everyone else is buying into it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the correct one or the best; that’s my way of thinking (i.e. my Mom, Anna, taught me that as a kid)!

“Lemonading”: “The Power of playfulness for facing adversity.”  Have you ever heard of it? I read it in the paper soooo it must be right that:  Making lemonade when life hands you lemons is a concept that’s been around for over 100 years — but thanks to a study out of Oregon State University, we now have new science-backed evidence showing how powerful ‘lemonading’ can really be (i.e. I’m not sure if that is true but it’s from Oregon State soooo it must be right).  They say—"The more playful individuals displayed ‘significantly higher levels’ of resilience when coping with the effects of life compared to the less playful group, suggesting the former are better equipped to have positive experiences during difficult times. ‘[Playful people]’ actively altered challenging situations, found creative substitutes for what was lost, viewed obstacles as opportunities for growth.”  ItchieBitchie says—And besides, they are much more fun to be around, but that didn’t come from Oregon State but from ItchieBitchie State!

TheGuyDownTheStreet told me that when folks are close to dying, others are more often likely to notice what they say, hoping for comfort, a blessing, their testimony, or final loving expressions. I’m not sure but I would believe that. Especially when they start talking about who they are leaving the farm to e.g. like I was not sure for some time, but I have decided to leave the farm to you Junior and you Susie instead of the Lost Dog Sanctuary on Dutch Street)! Junior and Susie said—We will spend the money on something worth the money and we will use the money responsibly! Those toooo are comforting words! hahaha

OurFriendFromMN told me that she was hoping to inherit the genes of her father of skinny legs and of smooth wrinkle free skin, but she didn’t. Instead, she got his gene of Kyphosis. She said—"I’m not sure if I want any more of his genes even though they are free!” She also said, “I also got Mom’s gene of chubby knees, but I did get her pleasant personality also. Life isn’t always fair. The only thing that’s fair is the Butler County Fair and that’s in June.

The85Year-OldLadyFromAssieBayMI told me that she owned an excavating company and still owns a harbor for sailboats (i.e. I would have never guessed that). ANYWAY, her first husband died, and she remarried. Her mom told her she should marry some JoeGuy but she said—I didn’t like him in elementary school, I didn’t like him in high school and I don’t like him now. She married one of her sub-contractors who she always trusted, got along well with and it has really work out well for some 20someyears. I told her that she has such a great attitude a.k.a. lemonaiding attitude. I asked her if she is a believer—yes, since I was 14—why did you ask that—I was not sure but I thought I could tell, you have a sweet, gently attitude, many believers have such an attitude.

Are we the problem or the solution to the problem? We went to Lowe's to get some caulking for the bathroom. Jeanne was looking at all the caulking. We had a clerk help us who knew caulking. The clerk really helped her get the right kind and how to do it.  Sooooo, I ask for help often. Many times I like to ask three experts about what I’m planning to do, get their advice and then follow it. It works for me (i.e. when I think I know all the answers myself, I usually end up in a mess!). I’m fortune as I know many of you who are experts, and I have your numbers! But remember I’m just a little ol’ farm boy from a mile and quarter south of Roseland, MN.

I have friends who are Supermen and Superwomen! Some of you might question me about that but if ya don’t know my Supermen and Superwomen, how can anyone judge if they are Supermen and Superwomen! I think I have a lot of great friends, some of you might not think they are soooo great (i.e. folks have and use different measurement sticks in measuring up friends). That is why my Supermen and Superwomen are not everyone’s Supermen or Superwomen. JoeBlow says—We are pretty much like who are friends are for the most part, and guess who makes the decision who our friends are!  MissPerfect says—I’m not sure about that answer! VioletStillwater says—The old saying is, you can’t pick your family but we can pick our friends!

Jeanne volunteered in the canteen area which serves snacks to the homeless where we volunteer in AZ. A regular client came in for her lunch and was using very foul language. Jeanne’s associate said to her—Angie (i.e. fictitious name), watch your mouth!  Angie changed her foul mouth instantly as there is a rule—If they use bad language, they get no food!  I’m not sure but it appears that free food does get their attention (i.e. it might prove that folks and dogs can be trained with food). It has been said--King Solomon writes: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue,” and “From the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach is satisfied” (Prov. 18:20-21). “Everything that comes out of our mouth will guide towards good or for bad—and the effects are not just for ourselves, but they spread to others as well as our words guide them” (James 3:1). Bernita says—"Everything you have filled your heart with will spring out of your mouth. So, choose today to speak life over yourself, your circumstances, your family and everything else around you.”

What I think is important many others don’t think is important! Saturday question—Soooo why is that? Just listen to different conversations; they are way different. There has to be reasons why that is. I guess I just don’t know what all the reasons are but there sure seems to be differences; folks just don’t think alike, I guess. I’m just not sure why! But I do know that I enjoy conversation with some folks much more than I do with others.

The old saying is--We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t even know or like. JoeSixPack says--This drive to be accepted influences our choices: the clothes we wear, the careers we pursue, and the lives we live. Related to the above statement is this statement—We waste precious life doing things we don’t like, to prove ourselves to people we don’t respect, and to get things we don’t want. I’m not sure why we want to be soooo accepted! I think it might be our egos! What do you think? It appears to me that folks who have confidence are more independent and think more for themselves. But I’m not sure! The reality for me is that I’m not sure about a lot of things!

Aristotle said—“What’s difficult is to apply the right among of pressure, at the right time, in the right way, for the right period of time, in the right car, going in the right direction.” Aristotle, I’m not sure I can do that!

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

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said--Love generously, care deeply, speak kindly and leave the rest to God.

it's how we respond

AI says—"How we respond to challenges is what truly defines our character and shapes our future. When faced with adversity, our reaction can either exacerbate the situation or steer it towards a positive outcome. A thoughtful and measured response often paves the way for constructive solutions, fostering resilience and growth. By embracing the difficulties with a proactive mindset, we can turn obstacles into opportunities, demonstrating not only our strength but also our ability to adapt and thrive. Ultimately, it is the manner in which we respond that can transform a moment of crisis into a stepping stone for success.” I think that is pretty philosophical for a non-human expression!

We talked to an older lady in our park who was pushing her two dogs in a dog buggy. I said to her—I hear a dog takes about 3 hours a day to take care of them and you have two soooo is that 6 hours?  She said—That is about right! But I love it!  Jeanne and I must be getting older as after church we went up in ‘em ‘er Superstition Mts to hike a favorite trail. It was rather hot and we were rather tired, I guess. We pulled into the parking area, I turned off our vehicle and we just sat there and neither one of us said anything. Then one of us said—Do you really want to do this today?  The other said—Not really! Soooo we went back to our tin hut and I think I took a nap! But we did go back another day and hiked The Treasury Loop; it was great! It’s how we responded! That "another day" we had a lot more pep! We were the oldest on the trail by far. Such is life!

How would you respond? An older lady told us she fell out of bed and got stuck between the bed and the wall and broke her leg quite badly. Her family couldn’t get her up as she was stuck soooo they had to call emergency services (i.e. the ambulance and the fire truck) who pried her out. They got her unstuck and told her that the worst is when old folks fall off the stool and get stuck between the stool and the wall; now that is really tricky!

Many older folks buy step-through bikes as soooo many old folks fall off their bikes by getting off and on; just standing still. Yes, we have to give up our macho ego thinking that of being really a tough, strong young people (i.e. not soooo)! Many older folks would rather not get hurt (i.e. they really like their original teeth, hips and shoulders). BUT it appears that older folks are really good at eating, drinking and talking! We see a lot of that! Some old guy named erv, bought a step through from an older guy who couldn't ride anymore who lives down the street for $45! I have no idea how many old guys have aged out of this bike before me! Such is life.

The picture is part of my dermatology exam. He found a spot on my shoulder that he took a biopsy of, and it was melanoma. He cut it out (i.e. .43 mm deep but cut down to 1 cm and 7 cm long for prevention). I was fortunate that I did an exam, all because of Jeanne encouraging me. Soooo I suggest you do it. For you seniors—Medicare will pay for it but you must make sure they code it a needed exam. Now, how are you going to respond to the suggestion of you going to see a dermatologist and be checked for skin cancer? Is it I don’t need it, I’m a guy or maybe that’s a good idea?  

We had a great time seeing our old friends in FL. They seemed to look older compared to the last time we saw them. Maybe we all look older and are older but we just think it’s just the other old folks that look older! Da! We sure had a lot of fun doing stuff and thinking we are younger (i.e. that was how we responded like playing beach ball tennis)! We had a hoot! It seems that we respond to different folks differently now don’t we (i.e. different folks seem to rattle our bones differently). Why is that do you think?

I have read two books about ego and humility. I read them at the same time. Both are good. Humility The Path to Holiness by Andrew Murray and Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday. Now it is how I respond to them. I suggest you read them. They might impact us. Of the two, I like Humility The Path to Holiness the best but both are good.

I have been praying for some folks for some time. I actually don’t know exactly how to pray for them soooo I pray that God might give them wisdom and ask God to take it from there. I have seen a ray of hope from what I see and hear recently about them; a ray! I thanked God for maybe a crack in their hearts; that is my response.  There is no medicine like hope, no incentive sooo great, and no tonic soo powerful as the expectation of something better tomorrow.

An acquaintance who might become a friend (i.e. she is from AZ and we’re heading to WA) sooo who knows if we will ever see each other again told me this about herself. She says she has a hard time keeping her mouth shut when someone is being abused. Her and her husband were waiting in line at a fast-food place and this old guy budges in front of them and says to the little girl behind the counter—my burger has mayonnaise on it and I don’t want mayonnaise. The little girl said she was sorry and she would correct it. He ragged on her until she was in tears. Then he came back a little later and complained that there was too much ketchup on his burger. She had enough and got in this guy’s face and told him off in defense of the little girl (i.e. she was her advocate—her response). She just couldn’t take it anymore. The old guy sat down and ate his burger! I don’t know if she hoped he choked on it!

OneSmartPerson says--Kindness is its own reward but cruelty is a self-inflected wound. Kindness makes everyone feel good but when we are cruel it comes back and wounds us.

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

erv

MyDeceasedFriendJean said—People can’t drive you crazy, if you don’t give them the key.

voice of reason

And one of those great friends in FL told us this--What did the monkey say when he got his tail caught in the lawnmower--it won’t be long now! Now that is voice of reason let me tell ya!

AI says—"The ‘voice of reason’ refers to a perspective or individual that advocates for rational, calm, and thoughtful decision-making in situations where emotions or impulses might otherwise lead to hasty or irrational actions. This voice often encourages people to consider the consequences of their actions, weigh their options carefully, and act in a manner that is just and equitable. In many discussions or debates, the voice of reason plays a crucial role in guiding individuals towards a balanced and fair resolution, ensuring that actions are measured and considerate rather than driven by immediate emotional responses.”

When we visited FL do you think we went sightseeing, experienceseeing or friendseeing? Well, we sight seen Kennedy Space Center where we heard over and over that people say—It can’t be done but it can! And we had the experience of riding in an air boat with the alligators which we never did before.  We spent time with good great friends (i.e. the best part). 

“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.” – Tom Brokaw    A friend had a confrontation with another lady. She described her as a very head-strong, controlling person. From what others say and my observation, I think that her description might be a fair evaluation (i.e. on the money, hit the nail on the head). Maybe she doesn’t seem to hear the voice of reason. . . . “Now pray to the LORD to take these snakes away. So Moses prayed.” Those snakes left! Saturday question—Do you think that is crazy! Do you believe it?

Don’t wait for a chance—create one! RickyRick says—"The basic law of relationships is this: You tend to become like the people you spend time with.  If you spend time with grumpy people, you get grumpier. If you spend time with happy people, you get happier. If you want be humbler spend time with humble people.” SlipperyJoe says--Ya don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure that out!

Absolutely devastating! We hear of stories that appear are absolutely devastating to people’s lives (i.e. maybe you have had such an experience). I sometimes don’t like to hear those stories and sometimes I do! I admit it! Those real life stories really do affect people; they do. They are not easy to deal with. Many devastating events affect us forever. We probably all deal with them differently. Do we all have devastating stories? We sure do hear a lot of them; maybe because we are older do you think?  Maybe, just maybe, overwhelming situations might highlight our powerlessness and might even make us more humble or even become humble. It could be.

TomNobody from Sisseton, SD says—"If you think you know a lot about something, remind yourself that there are many things you do not know. If you want to learn something worthwhile, attempt to learn how to be a nobody. The most profound and valuable lesson of all is to truly know yourself and to have a humble opinion of yourself.” You believe that? I can hardly believe that many folks do! ItchieBitchie says--It’s not American. TomNobody thinks it’s voice of reason. Viktor Frankl in his book Man’s Search for Meaning (i.e. a great read, my opinion) says—"One who gives light must endure the burning.” WorldClassLarry says—"If you want to be a beacon you have to share the light.” Think through those statements will ya! Saturday question—Can a nobody be a beacon with a light? I asked AI who a nobody is; quite interesting!

AI says--A nobody, in the philosophical and introspective sense, embodies the essence of humility and self-awareness. This individual eschews the trappings of ego and status, understanding that true wisdom lies in recognizing one's limitations and the vastness of what remains unknown. A nobody does not seek validation through external achievements or accolades but finds contentment in the quiet pursuit of personal growth and the betterment of others. This person listens more than they speak, observes more than they judge, and values the intrinsic worth of all beings. In a world often driven by the pursuit of recognition and power, a nobody stands as a testament to the profound strength found in modesty and the silent, unwavering commitment to genuine understanding and compassion.

Have you ever got breaks in our lives that we didn’t deserve or didn’t see them coming; they just happened? I have for sure! I just can’t explain them. I was reminded once again by two of our grandkids having such breaks and I would guess they might not even have noticed them. Both situations gave them an opportunity to gain confidence. Both happened because “these two people” were not there because of different reasons, and they got to move up into a position of opportunity (i.e. it changed the dynamics with these two people gone). Have you ever noticed that when some folks aren’t there, it changes the dynamics and others have a chance to shine (i.e. maybe the alpha dog has passed on)? Maybe that’s the voice of reason showing up! Could be but I don’t know! I’m just another bozo on the bus!

Are we vulnerable to believe stuff that just doesn’t make any sense, is not common sense or it is not voice of reason (e.g. like getting scammed). AverageJoe says--It’s amazing what we will believe at times (i.e. completely brain washed).  Well flip the pancake with counterintuitive (e.g. The idea that expressing gratitude can improve one's own happiness might be counterintuitive to some, who might expect that receiving gratitude would have a greater impact. Nonetheless, numerous studies show that practicing gratitude enhances personal well-being). AI says--In essence, counterintuitive ideas challenge our preconceived notions and often lead to surprising and enlightening discoveries. It is a reminder that our instincts and assumptions are not always accurate and that exploring the unexpected can yield significant insights and outcomes.

This could be the voice of reason speaking to me!  OneSmartPerson says--Something powerful to remember: When friends are in pain, sometimes the best thing we can do is simply show up. The deeper their pain, the fewer words are needed. This is known as the ‘ministry of presence’—you don’t have to say anything; just be there. We may have suffered some big losses in life. Maybe we’re in a time of loss right now. Don’t just pray for ourselves; pray for the recovery of hurting people in your neighborhood, community, church, and world—and watch how God brings recovery to your own life.” Saturday question—Why would either of these two things work?

Henry Ford says—"You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do but it’s built on what you did or are doing.” LuckieEddie says—Talk is cheap! ThePreacherMan says—"How easy it is to go along with the crowd! But, instead of simply getting in line and shuffling along automatically, we can know exactly where we are headed…It is my experience and belief that, most of the time, the crowd has no idea where they are going. They just are going, and that’s good enough for them.” Maybe we need to try to listen for the voice of reason! I read this in a book I’m reading—“It’s a temptation that exists for everyone—for talk and hype to replace action…Almost universally, the kind of performance we give on social media is positive. It’s more ‘Let me tell you how well things are going. Look how great I am.’ It’s rarely the truth; I’m scared. I’m struggling. I don’t know.’” CrazyMarvin says--Some chatty statements can be  rather blurry.

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

erv

MyDeceasedFreindJean said—The sweetest sound is the word of praise.