catch a break

TomSmart says--erv erv, you write things that make no sense to me!  Now that is really interesting to me TomSmart.  It really is.  One of us maybe is off kilter a little maybe. And if you are certain you are not, then it must be me. But before you decide, ask your shrink about that! haha  And tooooo top it off, my mentor use to say to me—erv, everyone can be bought; it’s just a matter of price (i.e. maybe one of us has been bought). 

I say it a lot that we interpret facts and opinions differently based on many reasons (i.e. that is why we don’t understand each other).  Take a look at this pic.  We were at Historical Kinnick Stadium watching the Hawks beat Illinois last Saturday (i.e. a great unique time).  It looks like I think it’s the coldest out. Rookie thinks it’s the warmest, Chet so so (i.e. but maybe most stylish) and Tom isn’t sure.  Hey, it’s 45 degrees on the thermometer.  We all relate to the fact differently.  Good grief!  There was an interview over the new public address system.  I asked the ladies beside me if they understood anything that was said—they said they didn’t understand one word.  I didn’t neither. Good grief! I said to them—If you and I didn’t, I would guess the other 65,000 didn’t either.  Now that is a fact!  Right? Ok, sooooo on the way home going down the road, Chet had on the post-game call in show.  One person said that our IA quarterback had an outstanding game, another said he was just average, and another said he had a poor game.  They all watched the same game (i.e. fact) but all had a different opinion.  Good grief!

This might not make any sense tooooo you until one day, bingo, it does.  A friend recently told me—erv, you have changed since you had to deal with Arlene’s Alzheimer’s.  What!  I don’t think sooooo.  Don’t kid yourself, you have.  How have I changed.  You look at things differently; it’s noticeable.  I wonder if they think I’m a better person or a worse person.  I have no idea.  Maybe a month ago, I read John Grisham’s book The Guardian.  Mr. Grisham usually has some undertone of God in his books (i.e. very slight but always some it seems).  He doesn’t preach but…!  JoeBlow says—In our culture today, it seems, like all preaching and nothing practical/applicable is not accepted very well.  ANYWAY, this is the line he put in his book (i.e. it might be confusing to some of you, but you might be the recipient someday; you never know; Paul didn’t see it coming either). 

 Soooooo what is a break?  Inheriting 240 acres of prime Butler County corn ground worth $10,000 an acre? Surviving a disease or accident that most folks die from? Being of sound body and mind? Being content? Having a mind set and ability in which you make a lot of money? Having options? Having a great family situation? Meeting a great person? Me getting some good advice from Tom at the football game? You get the idea.  How do we know if we are getting a break or have gotten a break?  Maybe we have gotten a break and we can’t comprehend it. Do we ever think we get a break, but it isn’t really?  Do we make our breaks?  Do breaks just happen? Are our breaks miracles? Why do some folks seem to get good breaks and others seem like they don’t? I have a lot of questions and no answers.  I need to talk to a person who thinks they know everything!  haha

Recently I had some emotional days (i.e. some emotions were because of Arlene’s situation and some emotions were from some of your situations that you shared with me). There sure is a lot of hurt in life.  ANYWAY, I sat down in front of the fireplace and was doing some work when I fell asleep.  I slept really hard for maybe 45 minutes.  I felt, oh sooooo much better when I woke up.  It was like I caught a break. I really felt very good; in fact, I felt way good (i.e. I knew it wouldn’t last forever sooooo I enjoyed it)!  JoeInsite says—We must not allow the clock and the calendar to blind us to the fact that each moment of life is a miracle and mystery.

                                                                                                                                               

 CadillacJack says--Give folks a break! You need to give about 10 praises for every negative remark you give. Why? Because the negative is what folks remember. If you were to get 10 compliments and one criticism, which one would you go home and remember? If a business person gets 9 cards that say, “Thanks for doing such a good job for me; you really helped me out a lot” and one card that says, “You’re off the wall!” which one do you think the business person dwells on the most?  My Mom, Anna, would say to me—erv, if you can’t say something good, don’t say anything. I think she was saying—give someone a break! PositiveFred says--You’ve got tooooo overemphasize the positive, because you inevitably have to deal with the negative. MissPerfect (i.e. is medium—sooooo called ‘cause she is neither rare nor well done) says--I’m really not very good doing that; I like to say negative things toooo folks soooo I can make myself look better! SusieQ says—All this might be right for most folks except my sister-in-law who has an ego the size of a hot air balloon; she doesn’t need any more positive stuff (i.e. her head can’t get any bigger or she won’t get her head through the door for the family Christmas gathering). She can really strut her stuff alright!  A friend and I went to a UNI basketball game the other night.  You don’t need to have a big head; you can just borrow one!

Some of you maybe might think you just caught a break after thinking about trying the following stuff maybe and others of you might think this idea is a bunch of hooey.  ANYWAY, OneSmartPerson says—"When you wake up, instead of checking emails on your phone, or counting your retweets, pick up a pen and scratch a few sentences into a notebook.”  Hey, listen folks, it’s way different to write something down than just thinking it.  It’s really special.  My opinion.  Now that I’m home alone I pray out loud. It’s a real different sensation that is amazing; special (i.e. it’s real different saying it out loud than thinking it silently).  I suggest you try it.  Like I said, some of you will think this is just a bunch of rubbish and others will think you just caught a break!  Such is life.

It’s that time of the year which there are family gatherings, social events, parties etc.  A fun time for such things.  For some of you, it’s a fun time and others of you, it’s a time of misery; you hate these parties.  It can be a lot of good food and conversation.  Sooooo how do we know if we are a weird person that folks would rather not invite.  Like we are over opinionated, always think we are right, toooo chatty, have philosophical arguments about nothing, dominate the conversations, irritating, rude, drink toooo much, eat tooooo much, are just plain obnoxious?  GeorgeTheCrook says--Surely not me!  My wife, maybe, but not me!  C’mon, most families and offices have such a person.  BUT how do we decide if we are that person? Are we the person when we don’t show up, folks think they caught a break!  A friend and I were talking about two university basketball coaches.  He said a person who knows both coaches told him—One coach the more folks are around him the more folks don’t want to be around him and the other coach, the more folks are around him the more they want to be around him. Huh, interesting.

A senior friend called me and asked if I would visit with her—of course—soooo we visited for an hour.  She wanted me to make a decision for her—I didn’t.  I listened to her (i.e. she has told me this before sooooo I was familiar with what was going on).  I told her—There is a good chance that something will happen before you have to make your decision (i.e. the deadline) which will make your decision for you; you won’t have a decision to make.  If not, you probably already have your decision made but you want assurance that it is the correct one.  In your case, there is no correct or wrong decision.  What every decision you make will be the right decision for you.  And even at that, if you want to redo your decision later, you have that decision (i.e. nothing hurt).  You will be fine!  It is very questionable if she caught a break from me!!!! haha

I have been in several support groups of Alzheimer’s caregivers both at home and in AZ.  I have heard this question many times—Is it ok for me to pray that my loved one would die? It’s what they want.  The disease is just going to get worse and more misery for everyone.  If we are Christians, we believe that heaven is really going to be great.  Sooooo why not God, just let them die.  It would be a break for everyone.  I was communicating with a friend whose husband is pretty bad.  We both think that death would be a blessing for everyone.  She did say to me—erv, a couple of his siblings talked to me and they are supportive and concerned about me; it was nice to hear that. You other caregivers know that was a break for her (i.e. she really appreciated and needed that). 

The other night our neighbor came over with their new little girl and a loaf of banana bread.  We talked for quite some time.  I enjoy visiting with her.  She is very refreshing.  After she left, I thought, I just caught a break.  She was uplifting to me.  She was like a cheerleader; she sorta kinda cheered me on even though she didn’t maybe know it or maybe she did; I don’t know.  That is what cheerleaders do.  Saturday question—Are you and I cheerleaders? She told me that their little boy spent some time with his boy cousins this last summer.  He got banged around pretty good which made him a lot tougher.  Have you ever got banged around and got a lot tougher? Maybe caught a break!

Magic (i.e. that is what I call her as she is sooooo good with the memory unit residents) was leaving and soooo was I. Magic sings and plays her guitar I think once a week.  She said she had to stop and see Arlene for a second.  I had to talk to the resident assistant.  We then met again when both were leaving. She told me that she got a huge smile from Arlene.  Then she sang Edelweiss as she knows Arlene likes the Sound of Music. Then she said--Alzheimer’s sucks!  Then she said--This might sound corny but when I can make the life of dementia residents a little better, I feel the closest to God.  Magic, you are blessed to be a blessing! 

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—Ability is important, but dependability is critical.

P.S. About once a year, goggle redoes their security of bulk emailing.  It is to protect the public, but it causes problems for my mailings of “It’s Saturday.”  Generally, they work out the bugs or I learn how to adjust over some time.  ANYWAY, please check your spam and also you may bookmark the link and check for new “It’s Saturday” each Saturday morning.  I will try to get it working smooth again.  Sorry! We got to take the bad with the good.  Such is life.

confused

A golfbuddy/friend manages a business and sent me this--erv I have this customer who comes in and always makes up stories which may not be true. He said he went to the hospital and had a defibulatar put in so I asked him if we could now believe what he said.

I confuse many of you.  I don’t mean toooo but just do.  I’m not saying that you are easy to confuse but then again, you might be!  I don’t know for sure.  I say one thing and you take it another way.  What can I do?  I have no idea.  I can’t make it any clearer!  MyNeighborDownTheBlock says—If you want to confuse someone really bad, send them an email and on the top put “page 2!”

I have become friends with a young man who we seem to think alike (i.e. I think).  I have given him some business as I want him to succeed, which I think he will.  I remember back when I started in business when some of you gave me some business soooooo I could succeed.  Thanksamillion, I really did appreciate it.  ANYWAY, this young man and I had a miscommunication in a business transaction (i.e. probably was more my fault than his ‘cause I assume toooo much— I think others think like me; they always don’t). He felt bad but, I told him that it was ok.  I remember maybe 40+ years ago, I made a business mistake with a client who really helped me get started.  My mistake was back and white (i.e. I messed up calculating the proration of taxes on a farm sale).  He came to me and showed me my mistake. I wanted to pay him what I shorted him. He said—It’s ok erv. This miscommunication reminded me of him who I haven’t seen for many years.  I am going to see him if he is still alive and thank him again (i.e. opportunity).  Huh, interesting; great memory.

ThePersonFromNorthOfTown says—The art of problem solving:  If you don’t ask the right questions, you don’t get the right answers.  A question asked in the right way often points to its own answer.  Asking questions is the ABC of diagnosis.  Only the inquiring mind solves problems. I realize that is pretty confusing to many of you, especially if you don’t like controversy (i.e. different opinions).  It’s easy to surround yourself with “yes people” even if they don’t represent other folks’ opinions or the correct opinions.  But does it solve the problem?  I think not!  Just my opinion. But if you are happy!  Maybe that’s all that matters. BUT it appears that all yes people usually destroy the business or organization (i.e. not seeing the big picture—tunnel vision).  WorldClassLarry says—It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out.  Alexander Graham Bell said, “Great discoveries and improvements invariably involve the cooperation of many minds.”

Here is a free nugget; well, maybe it’s not! I read in the paper that the U.S. spends $639,000,000,000 a year to protect our nation from outside forces each year.  Wow!  BUT we don’t spend much or anything to protect our nation from destruction from within.  And probably our chance of destruction is greater from the inside than the outside I would guess but I don’t know for sure.  Soooooo it is with us; we just don’t spend a lot of time or money protecting ourselves from destruction from the inside.  Or do we? LuckieEddie asks—How in the world can we protect our minds from the inside destruction anyway? LuckieEddie, if you don’t know, I’m not going to confuse you in trying to tell you. But it could happen LuckieEddie that you might find out; it could happen that all of a sudden one day you will get it.  Like Bingo!

I am confused as some of you really seem confused or I’m confused in thinking you are confused soooo maybe we are both confused.  Now that is confusing.  I have no idea how many friends you have on social media; I would guess some of you have a lot.  How can you have sooooo many friends anyway.  I’m confused.  They all can’t be your friends, can they?  Sooooo if they really aren’t your friends, how in the world can you unfriend them when they do or say something you don’t agree with?  I’m confused.  SweetypieJossey says—"Do you know someone who needs a good friend? Consider how you might share your wisdom and loyalty with a person and delight their heart.” Now that statement is rather confusing to me.  The reason why it is many folks is that some folks don’t want my wisdom and loyalty; they might not think I have wisdom and they don’t always want me hanging around them (i.e. enough is enough).  They would rather just post something on Facebook to their friends; friends they can just unfriend if some morning when they decide they don’t like them!  Da! Now that is confusing (i.e. arguably, I’m confused but my confusion might be almost an insult to you). Such is life.

This might sound confusing, but I think it makes sense.  I read this while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it. CoachB (i.e. who appears to be a super-duper person) says—You can’t make a person something they don’t want to be or willing to put forth the effort to become.  If they are not willing to be a certain type of person, you are wasting your time.  You will just make them mad.  I think it is such a sad situation when children won’t associate with their parents.  They don’t want anything to do with them.  Parents, usually, love their kids and put a lot of effort into their children and then sometimes get hurt soooo bad.  If any of you are that way to your parents, please, try to reconcile your differences.  Your parents still love you and are hurting soooooo bad (i.e. this might sound confusing to you but…).  Yes, there might be many reasons why you are not in touch with your parents (i.e. some maybe their fault for sure), but man up or woman up and try to do something good.  It might make you feel really good (i.e. this might sound confusing to you but…). Erma Bombeck said, “When my kids become wild and untruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they’re finished, I climb out.”

I don’t know if some of the residents of the memory unit are confused, but we sure can have a good time together.  They actually are really funny but always can’t remember much.  A guy and gal were playing cards. Anyway, they thought they were but were just turning cards over maybe. I said to the gal—Are you cheating so you can win? She said—Hell no, I don’t need to cheat to beat him, he can’t remember anything!

The other night I went to Chet and Jessica’s.  I pulled in their drive and parked way to the right like I usually do.  Got out and walked to the front door.  Noticed that there was a ding in the garage door.  Wondered what happened.  It felt oh sooooo good to hear Charlie practicing her piano.  Got to the front steps and saw that they changed the steps.  Then I realized that I was in the wrong cul-de-sac and obviously I was at the wrong house. Only one cul-de-sac over! Those houses all look the same at night! What a hoot or was it what a confusion. I was preoccupied with different thoughts. I didn’t scold myself; I just LOL!

PoliticianJoe says—Folks are as easy as pie to confuse! The politicians tell us what we want to hear even though we know it ain’t the truth.  It seems to work most of the time, or they wouldn’t continue to use it in their campaigns.  JoeSmart says—erv, actually telling folks what they want to hear seems to work in almost all phases of life; don’t kid yourself (e.g. like using the traditional Sunday school answer--haha).  Once in a while folks see right through this method.  Such is life. 

The other morning as I was eating my breakfast I said—As soon as I’m done with breakfast, I’m going to attack with vengeance a project that I have been putting off.  I got done with breakfast and said to myself—I must have been confused when I thought that!  The vengeance seemed toooooo disappear some!  Such is life.

A college friend who I had the opportunity to play basketball with at good ol’ Northwestern (i.e. who is a real person with a good heart—my kind of person—a super star) called me recently as he was on his way to see their son. ANYWAY, he visits folks who are in the hospital and care facilities from their church.  He has experience in seeing folks with dementia.  He told me that sometimes all he can do is hold their hand and say a pray.  Another thing he told me was that when his Mom was in that condition, he would leave her, and it would tear his heart out.  I struggle with both of those feelings.  Sooooo why do you think he called me on this particular day when I was really confused and told me these things.  Then the same day another friend (i.e. another super star) called me to chat about Arlene.  Happenstance, na, I don’t think soooo.  Many of you folks really touch me with your thoughtfulness and concern.  You know who you are.  Thanksamillion. 

Ok folks, I’m confused at times, no question. But that is only temporary I know for sure (i.e. my opinion).  I agree with what RickyRick wrote--We have all stumbled in this race of life. All of us have struggled. But our race is not over. One day we will see Jesus face-to-face. And we’ll never be the same again.  Every neuron in your brain will go on overload. And we’ll be transformed to be like him. I realize that some of you think that’s just “snake oil!”

Flip the pancake!  I got this from a golf buddy/friend.  It sounds confusing compared to my last paragraph.  Which one should I believe?  DownTheMiddle says--I wonder if you ever contemplate the concept of FOMO? It’s a thing now. The “talking heads” say it is part of what has driven the stock market rally. Americans are more vulnerable to FOMO or Fear Of Missing Out, especially younger folks. Marketers are jumping on this megatrend - feeding the fear among millennials (advertisers don’t care about us ‘cause we hardly buy any more) that they could be left behind in whatever; technology, trendiness, fashion, fitness aides or good deals. FOMO has always been the “snake oil salesman’s” best alley.

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining.

meditate or is it mediate haha

Orson Welles said, “My doctor told me to stop having intimate dinners for four. Unless there are three other people.”  MyNeighborDownTheBlock, who thinks he knows everything, says—erv erv, what you say in this “It’s Saturday” is just razzmatazz.  And he might be right.  Just remember folks, you get what you pay for!  Sooooo don’t take me tooooooo serious (i.e. also don’t take yourself tooooo serious—my suggestion).  You all knows more than me (i.e. and I mean everyone).  If you want answers, talk to my neighbor’s dog; she looks pretty smart!

This makes me laugh my head off!  WorldClassLarry says—The fact that a great many people believe something does not guarantee its 'the truth.  We are suckers sometimes, folks; we sometimes believe what the government, professors, sport announcers, Walmart, or parents preach to us when what they say might not always be the whole truth.  And LazyMary is the most vulnerable; she always has her mouth wide open sucking it in; she just can’t get enough of it. 

I enjoy getting up early in the morning and thinking, and reading, and meditating.  They are sorta kinda all connected.  Then I like to exercise.  I like this habit.  Soooo what is meditating? Well, to me it is thinking about something over and over and over (e.g. I read something like it is good to be thankful; how am I thankful). Then I try to think of ways to apply the truth to my life (i.e. ponder).   MissPerfect says—I do that, but I call it worry a.k.a. stinkin’ thinkin’)!  MissPerfect, try to flip the pancake  tooooo thinking of something positive; you will feel a lot better (i.e. my opinion).  Listen MissPerfect, I’m positive the turnaround is possible (i.e. but you might not believe me as tooooo what I’m talking about).  haha An older couple in their late 80s asked me for my opinion about something they are worrying about—They ended our conversation with this—At least we don’t have to worry about dying young!

Some of you are going to fry your brain over this thinking! Do you think the longer you think about something the better decisions you make?  Like you really contemplate the decision.  I really don’t know for sure for me, but I do know if I give it some time, I can think differently.  Actually, my thinking in the morning is different than my thinking in the evening.  I read this in the paper sooooooo it must be right—Isaiah James was stationed in Afghanistan nearly a decade ago. But something the village elders would whisper haunts him to this day. “They’d look at us and say, ‘You may have the watches, but we have the time.’ “  Oh, the old man time!  JoeSixPack says--The culture in the different parts of the world seem to be different.  JoeSixPack, the cultures in different parts of the U.S. seem to be different; in fact, within Butler County, there seems to be different cultures even though it’s a huge massive corn field; in fact, in our little church there seems to be different cultures. Holy cow! Is it sacrilegious for me to say holy cow?  JoeCarWash says—That depends which culture you ask erv!

MoreMature,Older,AndWiserBobby says--"The more tranquil a person becomes, the greater is their success, their influence, their power or good.  Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom." I agree MoreMature,Older,AndWiserBobby.  It appears staying calm is much better than getting in a lather. But we also need to think straight and act accordingly, not just do the first thing that come into our minds (i.e. my opinion).

I don’t pretend to understand where the sovereignty of God and free will of humans meet (i.e. that is way beyond me; I accept that).  WorldClassLarry says—You can’t always sometimes tell! That is an “age old question.”  Many folks think differently about that.  Oh ya!  You can argue that until the cows come home, and you still won’t know for sure (i.e. even though some folks say they know for sure).  A friend asked me, erv, why aren’t your Hawkeyes and Vikings winning more this year?  My answer is—They can’t handle the blitz!  Now that answer might have my opinion “colored all over it.”  You can live by the blitz and you can die with the blitz, but some folks handle it better than others; no question for sure.  Just look at their past performance.  Ya gotta pick up the blitz! If you don’t, you are going to see a lot of blitzes all right and they are going to mess up your life.  Everyone is scouting you.  They want to beat you. And if you can’t handle the blitz, you will have a poorer record. No question. Sooooo we better get our game plans together or get some new personal if we are vulnerable to the blitz.

When I was a kid growing up on the farm a mile and quarter south of Roseland, MN, my Daddy, Chester, would tell me to aim at a point across the field and drive to it.  I still do that when mowing my lawn diagonally.  Before the age of GPS and satellite navigation, wilderness explorers used a compass to find their way (i.e. you Boy Scouts and military folks know that). Once the compass indicated the direction, the trick was to look into the distance and pick out a landmark—a tall tree, a structure, or a mountain peak—then walk to it. That way, detours and diversions were not disasters. I suggest that we all aim at something positive and keep our eyes on it.  It's early in the morning and I’m trying to make a decision.  Coach’s advice is to sit quietly for 30 minutes and think about it and also ask two successful people who have experience in the matter for their advice. (i.e. not someone who’s history is not very good in decision making).  SusieQ says—I usually go with whatever feels good at the moment! If I need more help, I have some chocolate!

I have got to know some of the residents of the memory unit a little.  I really enjoy them.  I kid them a lot which they seem to enjoy.  They seem to kid me back, but I always don’t know if they are kidding me or are serious sometimes (e.g. I asked a resident who is a nice, funny guy—How was lunch? He said—It must not have been much to brag about as I can’t remember it!

Many times, in putting a deal together we say—Think about it and let me know.  Usually if a decision has to be made immediately, we need to be careful (i.e. a car salesman’s trick).  LuckieEddie says--A good deal is when it’s good for me and good for you.  A friend told me that he was starting a business and had pretty much made up his mind where to locate it (i.e. was going to sign the lease in the morning).  The next morning, he didn’t think sooooo. Went back to his first choice and asked if they would reconsider his offer again and they said yes.  It was the best decision; way better.  He thinks it was divine providence because of his prayers.  I was going to become part of a business once, but it didn’t work out.  It might have been a good thing (i.e. but I don’t know for sure).  I would guess everyone can think of something that didn’t work out and can say latter—thankyou God!  But flip the pancake, we all have some things that have happened to us that are unbelievably good and we hopefully we say—thankyou God!

In our modern world, we have soooooo many different ways to seek and find help. From an expert at Menards to an online resource, help is plentiful. Man, I can goggle most anything and find information.  That I think is amazing. I have tooooo admit that I like my iPhone.  The other night I was coming home from our kids’ place and listened to a talk that a friend suggested.  I goggled it on my iPhone and listened to it using Bluetooth in my car.  Amazing.  I also made an observation about one of the devotions I get each morning.  They have changed their methodology.  They have always used an old-style way of writing but this month (i.e. maybe it was this certain author) they are using a new modern form of methodology.  Maybe they are moving into the modern world.  Maybe. Maybe they have seen the writing on the wall.  Most have made the change already and maybe they don’t catch on real fast. Mediate on that!

Do you realize that everything physical is going to fade away; it’s just a matter of time.  On my trips recently, I saw a lot of old buildings that are obsolete and are sitting abandoned.  They are being replaced by new modern buildings or just let to fade away.  Look around, they are all over if they haven’t been torn down.  You replace your horse and buggy, your cloths, your vehicles, your appliances (i.e. way toooo soon), your carpet, your cell phone, etc.  Even our bodies fade away. You get it.  Soooooo why are some folks soooooo amazed when things fade away and something new comes along.  Da!  Get with the program!!!! Are we brain dead or what! haha

PeggySueMyPeggyPeggyPeggySue says--Often in the Scriptures, God reminds us to be still, to be silent. And so often life is run in the fast lane and silence eludes us. Why is it we defer to life’s busyness and not life’s solitude where we find healing and restoration for our souls . . . It is good to be silent before the Lord who alone is our salvation. It is in silence that we calm our thoughts and gain our balance. In silence we find our rock and fortress from which we will not be shaken.

I am thinking about a couple of friends who are champion worriers; the best (i.e. these are great folks but really like to worry and are really good at it).  They mediate on their worries soooo much that most nights they cannot sleep.  Ouchy ouchy!  It appears from my overview that they have nothing to worry about as their lives are very blessed compared to the vast majority of the world’s population.  Most folks would change with them in a flash.  Soooo why do you think they worry soooo much?  Maybe they don’t even know.  Now that could be! JoeSmart says—Maybe they should meditate on that! I like how Jimmer deals with worry.  It looks like it works 100% of the time! Just sit on the counter and have a cookie!

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—Sometimes the tiniest flowers smell the sweetest.

P.S. I suggest that all seniors check your Part D drug plan (i.e. deadline December 7).  The companies have changed from 2019 and you might be able to save some money or even a lot of money.  Go to Medicare.gov and compare all the plans using the drugs you currently use.  If you need help, I will help you.  319.239.9772  No cost to you.

ax to grind

I read this well-worn truism—"You can’t control what you can’t control!”  At times, I like to be in control and even think I should be able to control others or situations.  I admit it.  I even think I should be able to change other folks (i.e. it ain’t going to happen, I know).  Soooo why do I let other folks’ actions and thinking stress me?  It’s like I have an ax to grind. JoeBlow says—Get it out of your head erv; your life will much more enjoyable when you do!

Paul Newman liked to race cars and said this—It is useless to put on the brakes when you’re upside down.

I just ground my ax that I use it to split my firewood for our fireplace for kindling.  It works a lot better to have a sharp ax.  My friend, whose grinder I use to sharpen it, reminds me to be careful erv that you don’t chop your toes off with that sharp ax.  To have an ax to grind means to have an ulterior motive, to have a private reason for doing something or saying something. Someone who has an ax to grind has a hidden agenda. Do you or have you ever had an ax to grind?  Do you know or think you know of others who have an ax to grind?  ItchieBitchie says—"Some folks that can cause a lot of problems are folks who have an ax to grind and are given power; they also like guitars, megaphones, and the nightly news!  Yikes!  It happens many times in elections for city councils (i.e. which we just had the election for) or other government bodies that sometimes folks aren’t really excited to run for.  Usually folks who have a personal agenda, are not good folks to be in leadership positions.” You could be right ItchieBitchie, you could be right. 

Soooooo do any of you know any battle-axes?  The dictionary says a battle-axe is a term, generally considered pejorative, for an aggressive, domineering and forceful woman. I would guess if you get a battle-axe with an ax to grind, you have your hands full (i.e. particularly if they get power).  AverageJoe (i.e. who is humble but confident) says—I know men who are male models of battle-axes who have axes to grind who aren’t very much fun to be around and who cause a lot of problems, especially if they get power.  Don’t kid yourself. 

Soooooo here is my question I ask myself—Maybe I’m not right and only think I’m right about somethings.  Now that could be, especially if it cannot be proven but basically, it’s just my opinion or my interruption or another person’s thinking who tries to influence me.  How much pressure should we put on others if we aren’t sure it is true.  Maybe we should let others decide for themselves.  In many cases folks do decide for themselves.  I am soooo glad to live in America that I have all the freedoms.  I enjoy all the freedoms but am now thinking about the freedom of religion.  The state or no one else tells me what I want to believe or have to believe (e.g. I believe in Jesus Christ as my Savior; some of you don’t; and even Christians don’t believe in the same rituals or laws or believes or interruptions). Does any one person know that they are right (i.e. some think they know everything)?  I personally doubt it. Such is life.

I think I’m starting to make the turn and it feels good sooooo far.  Maybe anyway!  My turn is that I going to reduce my association and time with folks who always have an ax to grind.  Actually, Arlene has taught me this; she doesn’t like folks who aren’t sweet, kind and compassionate. It’s just not fun for me to around folks who are always agitated about something. I don’t need this in my life, especially now (i.e. it's not my cup of tea any more).  I just don’t need more stress.  This is harvest time for farmers.  Growing up a mile and a fourth south of Roseland, MN this was a busy time.  I have a lasting memory of my Daddy, Chester, at harvest.  My Mom, Anna, didn’t work in the field but surely did a lot of work around the farm.  But, during corn picking, she would help in the field.  My Daddy would always buy her a gift (i.e. usually some jewelry) to show his appreciation to her.  She was always soooooo appreciative of his gift.  That is a good memory of his compassion and kindness. MissPerfect, who is both humble and confident, says—I really enjoy folks who abound in love! MissPerfect, you might be on the right tract.  I read somewhere that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself.  CrazyMarvin says—Wow! I know some folks who love themselves a whole lot!

It appears that some folks have a huge massive chip on their shoulder.  It seems to just continually gnaws at them.  They might have been this way for ever; they just can’t give it up.  They always have an ax to grind; always.  CadillacJack says—Most “chips on shoulders” comes from a past experience in which someone thinks they have been treated unfairly; and maybe they have.  GeorgeTheCrook asks—Is anger learned or is it inherited?  Good question.  I know families in which anger is passed on several generations.  Some folks even know they have this issue but still can’t control it; they just explode at times. I think the courts even force folks to attend anger management classes.  I have no idea if it helps.  Maybe it’s a mental disorder. These folks can be difficult to be around.  Maybe you are married to one or were or maybe you have a child that is this way or had a parent this way.  It appears that anger tendencies are hard to change.

This is from John Gresham’s new book The Guardians.  I like his writing and have read all his maybe 35 books. The Guardians is a book (i.e. fiction) about exonerating innocent folks who were found guilty.  Here is something about having a chip on your shoulder.  

 Now isn’t that something like a sinner wanting to have salvation.  All anyone has to do is humble themselves and confess their sins and accept Jesus as their Savior.  But if folks have a chip on their shoulder, they might say—no way, I won’t do that but still want salvation; it ain’t fair Jesus; you aren’t treating me right; I have been treated wrong and won’t do that. I will show you; I won’t believe in you, God.  Jesus will say--Sorry, I can’t accept you my friend but if you change your mind, you are always welcome; I will always love you.  I wish and pray that you may get through that if you feel that way. 

LuckieEddie says—Some folks seem to always run folks in the dirt! Why is that LuckieEddie?  Are you ever around some folks who always think it’s the other person’s fault but never theirs?  They never cut anyone any slack; they are always critical of someone else; they are always right.  I ride with a female friend occasionally who always complains about how other drivers drive but she is never wrong.  I think that has to come from some past environment experience she had, and she can’t get over it.

A friend has a sports car.  He tells me that it is sooooo interesting how folks react to him when they see him driving it.  Some are all smiles and give him a thumbs up sign.  Others will drive rather bizarre around him like cutting him short or doing things to be negative (i.e. and do it with snarl on their face).  Why the difference do you think?  It has to be something in their past environment that creates this positive confidence or to have some negative ax to grind.  I don’t know.  What do you think?  That is what I thought. Sooooo is this a form of road rage I asked him.  I said I just haven’t seen much road rage.  Guess what, this last week I saw road rage twice.  Crazy!  I was in one of our communities at about 8 a.m. and there was a car in front of me that was driving erratic.  It appeared it was driven by a high school kid who had a sibling as a passenger.  He was really jumpy and acted nervous and crazy.  It appeared he had a mental disorder or was on drugs, but I don’t know.  There was a car in front of him who was going to make a left-hand turn into Kwik Trip but had to wait for a car coming from the other direction.  The car made the turn and the kid flipped the driver off.  Guess what—The kid is going to school and the school has to deal with him all day.  My second experience this week of road rage was when I was heading to see Arlene.  There was a tractor with two huge massive wagons of corn that was moving into the right turning lane to turn onto a county road.  I saw that there was a car waiting to turn on the highway and I thought I better slow down; this could be dangerous if the driver doesn’t see me because of the tractor and wagons.  The driver didn’t and made a left-hand turn in front of me.  I slammed on the brakes and skidded to a stop about 15 feet from this 30 some year-old female’s SUV. She continued her turn but flipped me off.  Guess what—Probably her ex and the kids need to deal with her on a continuous bases.

Compassionate folks are neat folks (i.e. my opinion).  Some of you are very compassionate; my hat goes off to you.  I know you are.  It’s easy to see.  And there are folks who can’t or won’t see the big picture but just the short-term results to make them feel good or satisfy their egos (i.e. they are really not concerned about others but just themselves).  It has always been this way and probably always will be this way. SusieQ asks--What is compassion? The dictionary says--Compassion is a combination of love and understanding. Can compassion be learned?  I think it can (i.e. my opinion).  Again, compassionate folks are much more enjoyable to be around (i.e. my opinion). 

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

erv

MyFriendJean says--It is those small daily happenings that makes like spectacular.

the story continues

GeorgeTheCrook says—erv, there is usually more to the story than what you write.  Most of the time, there is more to the story than you even know about.  I agree GeorgeTheCrook?  There might even be more to the story that we tell others (i.e. like we might not tell the whole truth).  Could be!

They didn’t listen to a word I said!  I called The Waterloo Courier to have them put my paper on vacation hold while I was gone.  They didn’t listen to a word I said; they kept delivering it while I was gone.  Now ain’t that something. Maybe they didn’t understand me. Could be.  MissPerfect says—Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things. Soooooo what can I do about this situation?  One of the easiest things is tooooo just go forward; forget about it.  It’s only a few bucks.  Right?  What do you think I did? The story continues.

While eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it, I read what RickyRick wrote—"Here’s some good news: Your brain stores everything. But it’s also bad news: Your brain stores everything. Your brain can’t distinguish between what’s imaginary and what’s real. It takes in both truth and lies. You have stored all kinds of garbage in your brain. And whether you realize it or not, often you base your decisions upon that garbage” Take that into consideration when reading this “It’s Saturday.”  Sooooo folks, what I write is based on the impute in my brain and how you interpret it will be based on the impute in your brain.  JoeBlow says—Now that makes for a lot of variables; God only knows how this is going to turn out (i.e. “stuff written” can mean different things to different people because of a lot of different reasons). That is why we don’t always understand each other.  We are programed differently because of our past environment and our genetics.  Don’t kid yourself.  Now that is the “long tail” of the matter. Such is life

Here is something interesting I learned while hiking in the back country of UT.  One of our guides had pancreatic cancer.  He decided not to take chemotherapy but instead took a cocktail including a heavy dose of Vitamin 13 which is not legal in the U.S.  He has been cancer free for about 2 years. The story continues.

I think some folks make me happy and some folks take away some of my happiness!  Yikes! I really do.  Why is that do you think? And the story will continue!  Our neighbor down the street says--Few things rob your happiness faster than being criticized or feeling like others are working against you. Why? Because we all want to be loved. We all want approval. We all want people to like us. You don’t need other people’s approval to be happy. You’re as happy as you choose to be! If others are unhappy with you, that’s their choice. If you haven’t earned someone’s approval by now, you’re probably not going to get it. And you’re going to be miserable if you try to live for the approval of everybody else. You can be happy no matter what happens if you look at every problem from God’s viewpoint and never let what other people say or do control your happiness. I believe that but it’s sooooo hard to stay in that focus.  I think I have to be around folks who share that thinking (i.e. my opinion).  What do you think? That is what I thought.

One of our guides told us that he thinks there are many native folks of Kanab who have never seen the National Parks including the Grand Canyon even though they are all in their back yard.  Many folks travel from all over the world to see them and they live within a few miles and don’t go and see them. He just can’t understand that. The story continues. 

I read this in the paper soooooo it must be right—Matt Campbell, IA State’s football coach, is well like by everyone it seems.  One of the reasons is that he makes you feel like you are right. He also makes folks feel that they are part of the coaching staff discussing issues in the coach’s office.  He makes you feel part of the effort.  I would assume that means that he is a humble person and real, but I don’t know him personally.  He appears that way though; that is the impression he gives me (i.e. whatever that means). My interpretation of the big picture is—Humility seems to work a lot better than huge massive egos!

Folks who are with Hospice are sweet and tender folks.  Not rough and aggressive but sweet folks. They have sweet caring hearts.  Someguys and somegals don’t!  Arlene reacts to gentle and soft speaking resident assistants way better than the rough and hard type.  She is much more cooperative; she can figure those folks out real fast.  And Arlene has less than half a brain.  Because who they are, their approach to Arlene is much different.  Some of those employees are very kind, sweet, tender and have very good hearts (i.e. my kind of folks).  

We have to make sure that you and I move on; the story will continue folks!  WorldClassLarry says—Thirty years from now, much of the stuff that we think is sooooo important will have no importance.  None!  Actually, maybe a week from now!  It appears that folks who can’t move on, really have a problem.

The story goes on from my trip.  I stopped at the Hot Springs pool in Glenwood Springs, CO on the way back from UT.  It it's good enough for Teddy Roosevelt, it's good enough for me.  I walked in the hot mineral water and then sat in the therapeutic end of the pool where the water is about 104 degrees.  A guy sits by me and he talks.  He was from Cincinnati and winters near Aspen.  I asked him if he skies--of course I ski; two years ago I skied at Snowmass 149 times--that is how many days they were open--I skied every day, didn't miss one--skied from open to close with a minimum of 8 runs a day--got a congratulatory letter and gifts from the CEO.  How old are you anyway--I'm 82.  And I plan to do that again this year. And the story continues. 

  

I saw this decoration in a neat person’s bathroom who is both sweet and kind. I know many nice, kind folks (i.e. many of you are that way).  I know many sweet females and tender guys (i.e. many of you are that way).  BUT I don’t think sweetness and tenderness can be learned like niceness and kindness.  Sweet and tender folks are usually nice and kind folks, but nice and kind folks aren’t always sweet and tender. ItchieBitchie says—I also know folks who aren’t sweet and tender or nice and kind.

And the story continues.  A few years ago, my wife and I (i.e. Michiganers) flew to Hong Kong to do a seminar for some of our missionaries. About halfway through the 17-hour flight, we went through the most horrendous storm. We were pitching and jolting. The plane was tilting, and everybody was getting antsy. They were obviously disturbed by the circumstances. The crew asked over the speaker, “Is there a minister on the plane?” I raised my hand. They approached me and said, “Everyone’s pretty upset because of the flight. Can you do something spiritual?” So I took an offering!

I asked one guide, what is best source of leads for you and your company.  He said—Reviews on trip advisor.  I was surprised.  He asked all of us, if we had a good time, if we would write a review.  He also said—most folks don’t.  I will.  I liked him.  He did a good job.  We have a tendency to complain when things aren’t good but don’t respond when things went well. Do you like it when folks tell you that you did a good job?  That is what I thought.

We bought an old antique regulator school clock maybe 30 years ago.  You old-timers might have wound it when you were a kid at your one-room schoolhouse; you never know. ANYWAY, Arlene really liked it soooo we bought it.  It has been tic tocking for all that time. A few days ago, it quit.  I tried to start it several times but no success.  Then I wondered if it was maybe a little off balance hanging on the wall (i.e. not level enough).  Bingo.  It won’t work if it’s not pretty level.  That is sorta kinda like me; when I’m a little off balance, I don’t tic toc very well or not at all.  Such is life.

A gal in our hiking group in UT was 49.  She told us that she has gained and lost 100 pounds 5 times in her life; she said it happened each time she got pregnant.  The story continues.

I lost my phone in the open range of the back country in UT while driving a Polaris side by side in some deep sand and rocks.  I was mad at myself as I didn’t use enough caution (i.e. I always zipped it in my hiking pants but forgot this time).  It’s nothing that money couldn’t fix!  When we got back to Kanab, I went to the Family Dollar store and bought a burner phone.  It amazed me the phone was $20 and the SIM card for 60 minutes for 90 days was $15. The gal who waited on me was a nice gal who was about 20, had a lot of body piercing and also heavily tattooed.  She activated it for me. I got the right person to help me (i.e. she was very nice--I offered to tip her, but she declined). Stuff happens folks.  I told our son that I felt guilty at times during the trip that Mom could not be with me.  He asked me—Dad, what are the alternatives (i.e. other possible scenarios)?  I said—I don’t think there are any others.  Sooooo there, you answered your question.  Ya gotta move on the best you can.  I guess much like my lost phone situation.

Both of our guides were raised Mormon but neither one are currently practicing Mormons; they are called Jack Mormons (i.e. I have no reason why they are called that).  One guide said he put ex-lax in the pancakes when he was a kid and got kicked out and the other one said he likes to drink, smoke and drink coffee.  One of those guides said that he worships the Spirit every day out in the beautiful creation.  The story continues.

 A friend sent me a text that she heard a sermon last Sunday that God sees the big picture and we don’t (i.e. some folks might not agree with that—they think they know everything). I heard a sermon recently when the pastor (i.e. who was a female—I realize that some of you don’t accept female pastors sooooo you probably won’t listen to this—that is your choice) started her talk saying—Is it more important to have a fish on the back of your car or help someone in need?  Is it more important to go to church all the time or actually be kind?  And the story continues; whichever story you like.

Both of our guides moved to this area of the country to be in the wide-open spaces and to enjoy the geography and wilderness.  Their move was a planned move to enjoy their life and their lifestyle.  Both are very adventurous and seem to really enjoy traveling.  They both seemed to be doing what they really enjoy doing. And the story continues.

In John Grisham’s new book, The Guardians, Cullen Post is visiting with police chief Bruno McKnatt about his involvement in the investigation of a murder of some 22 years ago.  After the conversation, Post said about McKnatt—There is more to his story.  He saw right through him; he has seen folks like this before.  I have that feeling with folks sometimes.  Do you?  The feeling that there is more to a person’s story than what they are telling me!

This “It’s Saturday” is just a is merism about “stuff” but you get the idea, maybe. And maybe not. This “It’s Saturday” doesn’t contain the same ingredients that the energy bars Heather picked out for me for my hiking but they both share the same ingredient that is not in the bars or this “It’s Saturday” either!  LuckieEddie says--Well, that might be a matter of opinion. Now we will never know for sure will we! Either way folks, suck it up cupcake and let’s get going! We’re burnin’ daylight!

I would guess that there is more to your story than what I know about you and/or what you have told me!

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—To have joy one must share it.  Happiness was born a twin.