force it

JoeValedictorian (i.e. who thinks different than most folks) says—It requires a very unusual mind to make an analysis of the obvious.  And erv, you have such a mind. I don’t understand what you are saying JoeValedictorian.  Are you saying something good about me or something not soooo good about me.  I really don’t know.  I don’t know how to interpret that.  Are you trying to force something into my mind?  Sooooo take JoeValedictorian’s thinking about me into consideration when reading this “It’s Saturday.”  I suggest that you don’t let anything written in this “It’s Saturday” influence you in any way.  I would be very careful and suspicious about everything.  Yes, I would.  That is my suggestion. It could even be worse than the news, suckers! I heard a mental health expert say—The worst thing you can do for your mental health is to listen extensively to the news (i.e. maximum should be 30 minutes a day)!  Yikes! Of course, that is their opinion. 

ItchieBitchie (i.e. who is very fringy) says--I’m going to make this work.  I will force it to make it work (i.e. my way or the highway).  If it doesn’t work very well, we’ll force it to make it work.  It’s like forcing a square peg in a round hole. It seems for me that it works better for me to go to a different plan instead of forcing it.  To me that is how I analysis it (i.e. the obvious)!!!

When discussing God’s attributes and character, theologians often use the Latin prefix omni, which means “all” or “every.” With reference to God, they frequently describe God as omnipotent (“all-powerful”), omnipresent (“everywhere present”), and omniscient (“all-knowing”). I like that word, omni, I always have. It seems powerful to me.  It just separates God from humans I think although there are some folks (i.e. you know who they are) that think they are omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent.  They are phony (i.e. blowing smoke).  Everyone knows that maybe except those folks that feel that about themselves.  AverageJoe (i.e. who doesn’t live in the basement) says--Not everybody who speaks on the Internet, social media, TV, or radio knows what they're talking about (i.e. even your neighbors or folks at church). Not everybody who's talking is worth listening tooooo. I thing we need to be selective!  You think they are trying to force their believes on me (i.e. like forcing a round peg in a square hole)?  I heard a person say—I read on a web site, a website that I have decided trust worthy,…notice that they said, I have decided is trust worth (i.e. their opinion)!  Huh, interesting. Maybe we all think we have the final authority as toooo what is trust worthy (i.e. we might not all agree with CNN news or Fox news of PPS news). Does it tell a little about you which news you watch? AverageJoe says—Some folks are really vulnerable, almost as vulnerable as 90-year old folks with underlying health issues are to the COVID-19 according to the experts (i.e. their opinion).  SusieQ (i.e. who seems to be soooo out of her league) says—And many folks think they are the expert; some are and some aren’t, maybe! JoeSmuck says—I really have no idea who knows what or anything anymore!

LuckieEddie says—A failure is a person who has blundered, but is not able to cash in on the experience.  I was contemplating a decision and have thought about it for several days (i.e. a decision that didn’t have to be made instantly).  It was a decision that was a rather fun decision to make in many ways a.k.a. unique.  I thought I had my mind made up.  Then the next morning, I thought just the opposite. Crazy.  I think I was trying to force the decision a certain way and was not being open minded enough and also acting toooo fast (i.e. not letting the course of action take place).  If it is toooo be, it is toooo be; it’s one of those type of decisions.  Soooo recently I was visiting with a friend who is on a committee that will make an important decision that will affect me and others.  We had a very good discussion and I agreed with his thinking that all the committee members have to agree, agree overwhelming and with great enthusiasm that this is the right decision or it shouldn’t be done (i.e. can’t force the decision based on the influence of the alpha dog or some other advice or emotion).  Can that be done?  I think soooo and hope sooooo.  Time will tell. The proof will be in the pudding! It appears that they have made a good over-viewing observation that might make the end result good (i.e. sounds like they are on top of it)—YAY YAY! CadillacJack says—Yabut, they might wake up some morning and change their mind! Could happen; it’s happened before! Such is life.

Sooooo I had a small bill with a medical provider.  I called them and asked if I could pay by check per phone.  They told me if I pay the account in full they would give me a 20% discount.  Why I asked.  It’s an incentive for folks to pay their account.  Wow! That is a big discount if I had a big bill.  What are they anticipating in giving that big of a discount I wonder?  There is a reason, don’t kid yourself.  It’s all about the money. Maybe they know that the stimulus money is here.   Or maybe they think 80% is better than nuttin. I think maybe they are trying to force the issue by making it financially attractive.  What do you think? A friend told me that some new car loans are now 84 months.  Why? Da! It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out.

It's all about the money.  Saturday question—Should churches take the government stimulus money or not?  Good question.  Some think that churches should put their trust in God and not take it or not take it maybe for some other reasons.  Others think that God sent the check as a blessing to the churches.  Some think it’s just plain good business to take it (i.e. it’s free hard cash) and others don’t think church should be run like a business.  What do you think?  That is what I thought.  I am not on a decision board the church that I’m a member of soooooo I have no vote or power, but I think I know how I would vote if I was (i.e. big on the think).  TheAnswerMan says—Money talks!  A friend years ago told me that his favorite verse in the Bible was--…money is the answer for everything.  In the footnote for that verse it says—can be read at different levels and then explained it that it can be true and cannot be true.  Soooo there you go! GeorgeTheCrook says—From my experience, money talks, don’t kid yourself. It quite often forces the issue!

I read this while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it: RickyRick said—"For much of Christianity’s history, only priests had Bibles. As a result, they were the only ones to interpret Scripture. Everyone else just had to accept what they said. Then, around 1440, Johannes Gutenberg invented the movable-type printing press. For the first time, common people had regular access to Bibles. ‘What the priest is telling me and what I read in the Bible don’t match!’ they said. Getting the Bible into the hands of ordinary people led to a type of revolution—a major church upheaval that we now know as the Protestant Reformation.” It appears that interpretation of the Bible is an ongoing discussion.  Some folks and church leaders have different interpretations than others.  Some Christian denominations have different interpretations than others.  Sooooo I guess it’s who you believe or what you believe. MissPerfect asks—Could it be that in some cases what we believe is forced on us?

A friend told me recently—When someone thinks they know everything, that is when they know nuttin!  I interpret that meaning that “knowalls” have a major problem.  Probably in a rut, maybe.  A friend was telling me that they are not big into politics, but the governor of their state has such a pleasant demeanor that when talking to the public about information, he is easy to listen to.  He doesn’t sound like he thinks he knows it all.  Huh, interesting.

Saturday question—Are you objective in making a decision?  Really?  Maybe we think we are but aren’t really.  Maybe our thinking is skewed by your past environment or our current environment.  My mentor would quote Shakespeare to me.  He is the only person who I ever heard do that.  He would say things like this—Shakespeare, in “Hamlet,” wrote, “He’s loved of the distracted multitude, who like not in their judgement, but their eyes.”

I think, whatever it means or I think it means, that going through Arlene’s Alzheimer’s and her death has modified who I am.  I think sooooo.  And I’m still in the process of figuring that out.  Sometimes, I think, maybe we need to go through tough times and things to learn valuable lessons (i.e. it forces us to think and go forward).  Again, I wonder if this COVID-19 situation (i.e. time to be alone and mediate) has been good for me (i.e. a friend suggested this to me from the get-go). BUT I don’t know for sure but maybe; the mind is hard to measure or understand.  And my mind vacillates.  Events and experiences seem to modify my mind and then there is the age factor.  ClearMindPam says—And then again, folks react to difficult times and things all different now don’t they.  MyBigSister only in age, said that a guy in their small group lost his wife and he seems to have a very positive spin on it to a point that some folks in the group think he is insensitive like he isn’t facing it.   And then the next person is extremely hysterical for years.  Saturday question—Is that a choice or not?

I had coffee with a couple of friends the other morning in one of their sheds out on the farm.  It’s in the middle of a huge massive corn field deep in Butler Co. IA.  My friend said—Usually his wife doesn’t make any treats for his buddies, but he told her I was coming soooo she made scotcheroos!  She is such a nice gal, she is.  ANYWAY, he told us about his friend who is an accountant and was doing the taxes for this guy who didn’t make enough to pay any taxes.  He qualified for Tax Credit where the government pays this type of person money up to a certain amount. The government gave him a payment/refund of several thousands of dollars. A couple of days later he came back and quizzed him about another program that his cousinBob told him about and he should get some more money.  The accountant told him that to qualify for that program, he would have had to pay some taxes.  The guy said—The rich get all the breaks! You know some rich do get stimulus money who still have jobs, and are paid well or might have a huge massive net worth.  Some might think it ain’t fair.  A friend said that all welfare programs sorta kinda operate that way, they ain’t fair. The only thing that is fair is the Butler County Fair and that is in June (i.e. even that might not be fair this year). Such is life.

I’m a registered organ donor designated on my driver’s license.  I called the Butler Co. Public Health and asked if I should take that off at my age.  They suggested I call the IA Donors Association which I did.  They suggest that I leave it on as they might want to use my skin.  Ok!  It is not a cost to my estate in any way.  I can’t believe they would want to use my skin.  I’m a wimp! I don’t have thick skin! I suggest you guys think about being a donor.  Maybe being an organ donor is for you; maybe not (i.e. it won’t hurt as you will be dead). Whatever your decision, you can pray for those today who are waiting for those wondrous words, “We have a donor!” JoeBlow says—No one can force any of us to be a good person! Here is a challenge for me in our current situation—The verse says—Defend the weak…and uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.  I was at the recycling area in our little town and another guy was there.  We talked and introduced ourselves.  He told me that his house is a zoo because of the isolation.  They have 5 children ages 9 and below. How is it going—I feel like a zookeeper some days; but we will make it.  You know folks, the end of our stories has not been written. Who knows, we might end up loving being a zoo keeper!

I’m thinking about painting a wall in our family room or maybe the whole room.  Why?  I don’t know really other than I feel like it.  I’m not a painter, Arlene did it and got good at it.  She was very patient.  I am not. This could be a disaster, even more than the COVID-19! BUT I think it would be a good change for me.  What do you think?  That is what I thought.  You have any suggestions?  I might have to force myself to do this! I have had a lot of you folks say—I will help you in any way; just let me know!!!!! haha

I forced the issue.  Either it was going to be easier to manage or it was going to die!  I have this ornamental tree in front of the house (i.e. it’s been there forever).  I hate to trim it, especially standing on a ladder and trimming the top middle (i.e. dangerous).  Every year I say I’m cutting that sucker down but never do.  I said it again this spring but didn’t once again (i.e. I must like it).  BUT I trimmed her really good this year.  I was taking the trimmings to the town’s burn pile where a friend was also hauling some cuttings.  He told me that you can’t cut them harsh enough to kill them!  It reminded what my deceased neighbor, Karl, said to me once—You need to prune it soooo that you can throw a cat through it without it hitting any branches! My neighbor’s cat must have been able to read my mind as it ran pretty fast when I looked at it! 

JoeConniver says—Remember folks, some things are a hoax a.k.a. snake oil.  Some folks are just trying to manipulate us (i.e. it ain’t nuttin new, it’s been going on for ever).  Many folks are more prone to overreaction and are much more susceptible to tricks than others.  It is very obvious, but many folks can’t analyze the obvious situations very well and figure it out. They need to be explained the obvious.  Such is life.

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—Today’s opportunities erase yesterday’s failures.

fascinated

You know how hard it is to get guys’ attention about almost anything these days.  It is very hard to get an audience about most anything unless it’s sport’s or making money or the virus.  Folks have to inventive and creative to get guys’ attention in what they are interested in, whatever that is.  This is an example as to how it’s done—Outside a nightclub, there is a poster proclaiming: “Six beautiful dancing girls! Five beautiful costumes!” Ok, for girls the poster reads outside a ladies clothing store—big sale, the more you buy, the more you save (i.e. it seems that most females like to “dress to the nines”)!

A while ago when we were still having our Booster Group, Judy told us that her Daddy would say—I’m going outside to get the stink blowed off!  A friend said that this quarantine/isolation has changed our direction.  Could be for many!  I have noticed a big increase in folks walking, jogging and running.  I think they are getting the stink blowed off! Fascinating to me! AverageJoe says—I think some still stink!

Keep it simple stupid!  This is a “spin off” of what a lady said in an Alzheimer’s support group I was in in AZ a few years ago. She said—The best thing folks can do for me is tell me that they care about me (i.e. that’s a “game changer” folks).   Ok, here is the spin off—I read this in the paper sooooo it must be right, to really help someone who is hurting (i.e. especially in this time of isolation) give them a call and tell them you are thinking of them. There is no need to have any other agenda beyond that. Ask them if you may call again because you care about how they are doing. I personally can attest to that (i.e. folks, I’m just being real —I think I’m a normal Joe)—and a lot of you do just that.  That is a fascinating feeling. Bingo! 

The old cliché is—Nice guys finish last.  I say bologna to that.  Nice guys are winners before the game even starts. Many of you folks really fascinate me (i.e. you are winners).  Yes you do.  You see the big picture.  Some of you expose your thinking to me and others either don’t see the big picture or elect not to expose yourself or elect to be more generic (i.e. I understand all of your positions with none being right or wrong—whatever works for you). I really appreciate/appreciated your words to me through many many cards, phone calls, emails, visits and texts.  They are heart-warming, prevalent, encouraging, emotional, loving etc.  They are/were really good. Thanksamillion.  A friend called me and sorta kinda stammered and stuttered and then said—This is soooo hard for me erv, to call you and tell you how I feel; I just don’t know what to say (i.e. he was sooooo honest but soooo real). It is sooo awkward for me. We had the nicest conversation once we got past his feeling of scariness.  He wanted in the worse way to talk to me but yet didn’t want toooo (i.e. it happens to all of us).  LuckieEddie says--Sometimes it feels soooo good to step out of the boat and walk on water (i.e. after we do it anyway—haha). 

I asked our children how they are doing (i.e. a normal typical question).  Their responses were very much the same.  It might sound harsh or crusty or not correct from many folks’ thinking, but both said they are relieved; relieved for Mom to have it over, relieved for them to have it over and relieved for you, Dad, to have it over.  It has been a long battle for all of us (i.e. Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease).  Arlene and I are/were believers in Jesus, and we believe that she is in heaven.  This makes Arlene’s death much easier to accept and lot less frustrating and even fascinating (i.e. my opinion). 

Here is an uplifting and fun email I got from a guy I have never met but he follows me on my blog and who got to know me because of that.  He was given the link from a pickleball friend in AZ (i.e. printed with his permission). Erv, Sorry to read that you'd lost Arlene.  I was lucky enough to get about 5 more years than that with Joan.  Think we'd both agree that we 'done good' in picking our spouses those long years ago.  As you say one has to be glad their suffering is over.  I found it hard to grieve after Joan passed because of that aspect. I don't have any impressive advice to offer.  Take some time to get your own life normalized again.  Just maybe some lady will come by and offer you some well done BBQ ribs too.  There are many things that are good about her, but she just doesn't quite 'do it' for me as a wife #2 altho she'd like that.  Don't know why she's so anxious cause I'm not that great of a catch; lungs are shot; cranky old grouch, etc. Wish you well establishing a new normal.  You appear to have a good relationship with God, that should help.  And, keep having coffee with the boys and girls at the cafe/elevator/golf course/etc. Be Well,

Here is another message from a friend of ours who was very special to Arlene during her last part of her life (i.e. sorta kinda a unique situation they developed because of this gal’s kindness and talent).  This is what she wrote—erv, I’m so sad to hear about Arlene’s passing. A light has gone from the world.  At the same time, I’m glad she is no longer struggling and that you no longer have to watch her struggle.  May the Lord bring you and your family peace, strength, and support.  I’m thinking of you. Condolences,

I could share many many many more of fascinating words from you guys.  All touching in their own way because of the relationship you had with Arlene.  All uplifting and pertinent.  I used these couple only in trying to express that Arlene is rejoicing today for sure—"What a day of rejoicing that will be” as it’s been a long battle for her and us.   As the song says—The battle is over, and Jesus is Lord.  That takes some of the frustration away and is quite fascinating to me. 

Coach says—It’s your way and not your want that determines what you get. He continues in saying that the way is our actions.  Now that is fascinating to me!  Yabut Coach, the paper says it’s the government’s job is to give me what I want; you say not sooooo!  Who do I believe anyway?  Saturday question—Are you a pessimistic, a realist, or an idealist?  Really!

About the wind.  I do not like strong wind.  I see that many others don’t either as there aren’t near as many folks outside when it is windy. But it is windy in IA, especially in the spring.  Wind can affect my attitude and also what I do. Yes it can.  I have these two Buzza mottos on the bathroom wall off the bedroom (i.e. Arlene never really liked them in her decoration scheme but was tolerant of me).  I think they are soooo relevant to life in general.  The schooner on the ocean shows me that in life we will be tossed and turned by the wind; it’s just the way it is going to be sooooo don’t be surprised erv.  It’s life.                                                                                                                   

I know folks who are very windy about themselves (i.e. probably most of it they say is mostly true but I don’t know)!  These folks can always “one up anyone” with them being better than the person telling them something.  They can also do it better and faster than who ever is talking.  They love to talk about how great they are a.k.a. they are self-glorifying like DuaneTheWorm, the purple ribbon winner—he will go down in history as the best and he will tell you let me tell ya.  SusieQ says—Thosekindoffolks only get along with thosekindoffolks!  No one else really wants to be around them. Birds of a feather flock together. Don’t kid yourself. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out. Abraham Lincoln said—You can fool some of the people all the time, you can fool all the people some of the time but you can’ fool all the people all the time.

Folks ask me what my future is going to be.  I have no idea and am not worried about it.  It will be just fine, but I don’t know what the fine is.  It’s actually pretty exciting; a new adventure for sure but of course different.  I’m totally convinced that something good will happen.  I just don’t know what that good will be. Have you ever been sooooo fascinated that you stand there with your mouth open and just wonder (i.e. I’m not talking about when you are sleeping)?  I have; it’s an interesting experience.  I hope you have had the experience.  I think of the disciples after Jesus ascended to heaven after His resurrection.  They stood there with their mouths open looking like they were catching flies and probably saying maybe—Now what.  They, of course, figured it out.  They had to go forward; they had no choice.  CadillacJack (i.e. who tries to climb Mount Everest using dollar store equipment) asks—How many self-help books have you read?  Many!  They do folks no good if they don’t act on them and most folks don’t (i.e. no matter how much a person underlines or highlights)!  The only folks they help are the authors who get your money, suckers! 

Maybe I’m toooo optimistic and not realistic enough.  Could be.  MissPerfect (i.e. who can be pretty full of wind sometimes) says--An idealist is one who, on noticing that a rose smells better than a cabbage, concludes that it will also make better soup.  Coach says--What is the first thing you think about when you wake up generally sets the tone of our whole day.  Soooo set your day with a thought of purpose, and passion; your day will be much better.  It will; no question.  Something positive is much better.  A friend called me the other night to see how I was doing.  She told me she eats, watches tv, eats, does a puzzle, eats and eats some more (i.e. I don’t think it’s that bad but she was poking fun of herself, but it could be haha).  She said she is really getting lazy.  I think she needs to think about something else!  GeorgeTheCrook says—Thinking about negative news and thinking about food is not a good combination!  Ouchy ouchy! What you think is what you’ll be! Now that is fascinating to me!

JoeBlow asks—How do you determine if a person is a fool?  Just because they disagree with us doesn’t mean much as maybe we are the fool and they aren’t even though we think the opposite.  Have you ever had a discussion with a person who you think is a fool?  How did it go? That is what I thought.  WildWillie says—Anyone who doesn’t agree with me is a fool ‘cause I’m always right! Soooo he thinks!  Some friends who have moved back into Iowa registered as independents as their political party.  We had a very interesting discussion and probably all agreed that maybe it’s time to have a third political party that would encompass the moderates of both the current political parties (i.e. exclude the radicals). SusieQ asks—Can you even have a discussion with a radical extremist? Have you ever had a discussion with my sister-in-law Betty (i.e. she really is fascinating to say the least)?  Wow!  

A friend said to me—erv, how in the world did you ever get Arlene as a wife? She sooo beautiful and sweet.  How did you pull that off?  I agreed with my friend.  It’s fascinating; it had nothing to do with money!  haha!  Let me tell you the story.  The first time I saw her she was sitting on the steps of Zwemer Hall at good ol’ Northwestern.  She caught my eye and I stood there and just watched her for some time.  The line of guys was 10 deep and I was #10.  Some reason, which I have no idea, eventually I worked up the line through time and got my chance.  Happenstance, na I don’t think sooooo.  Soooo the answer is, I have no idea.  It’s just fascinating. I have had sooooo many good things that just fell into my lap (i.e. this was one of the best). I have no idea why.

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

erv

MyFriendJean says--Faith means holding on tight when the going gets windy.

regroup and start over

I sometimes send out “It’s Saturday” early.  It is because of what Micky Rooney once said—Always get married early in the morning. That way, if it doesn’t work out, you haven’t wasted a whole day!

Robert McNamara, a former Secretary of Defense, said—“Brains are like hearts, they go where they are appreciated.  Now he could be right.  A few of us, who have lost spouses to dementia have had some discussion.  Our lives are taking a new direction and we aren’t sure where that will go.  We guess that there are many factors that will direct our paths.  Probably to some degree, how some folks encourage us will be a factor.  What do you think?  That is what I thought. It appears we will need to regroup and, in some cases, start over. 

I told some of you that I lost my interest in reading since Arlene passed on.  I did until I got a copy the book, grieving with hope (i.e. a Christian based book) from one of my investment companies and my broker.  It intrigued me sooooo I read it.  Parts of it was excellent for me and my situation but it might not be excellent for you.  We are all different now aren’t we? SusieQ said--Especially for you, DifferentSophie!!!!  I didn’t say that DifferentSophie, SusieQ said that!  Sooooo if you don’t agree with SusieQ, you take that up with her; don’t contact me (i.e. this is nonreplyemail)!!!!  I am going to share just a couple of things.  We all grief differently and are unique and that is for many reasons (e.g. if you never liked the person who passed on, you have no grief; you are happy they are died and can’t wait to open up the piggy bank) compared to losing a great friend who you loved for years.  I really liked the chapter entitled, How Your Thinking Shapes Your Grief.  You can interpret that any way you want (i.e. you folks are smart). I really liked this reference and have memorized it. It’s a Bible verse that is full of heavenly wisdom and is also full of earthly wisdom for those of you who are not a believer.  Philippians 4:8: Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” A friend sent me a note recently (i.e. very uplifting and encouraging).  She sent some great quotes.  Here is one—“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.—Abe Lincoln (i.e. your favorite).

I was touched by a very good college friend of Arlene in what she wrote me recently.  It seemed like I could understand her emotions partly, maybe and maybe I was out in right field (i.e. she went through a divorce and also lost a son).  She said this—"Seems impossible I have only waved as I drove to the beach to sit in my car with a book.  At least the sun feels good on walks.  But, have to admit I miss personal friendships where we give a hug, have a glass of wine, or go out for dinner.” Now you can read into that statement anything you feel.  Yes, anything you feel based on your emotions of your current environment and past environment.  A friend and I had a conversation recently (i.e. I have had a lot of conversations with many of you folks—I soooo much enjoy them).  He knows me quite well (i.e. whatever that means).  He told me that some of what I write in “It’s Saturday” he has no idea what I’m saying and parts of what I write he understands right on.  I told him that the fun part in that you can interpret it the way you want, and your interpretation will be way different, maybe, than the next person and maybe way different than what I’m trying to communicate and your interpretation is right to each of you.  You folks might think I’m in right field and you are in left field and the next time vice versa.  I don’t even have to try to do that, it comes naturally!  haha  As I told Arlene’s good college friend in my reply—That is what Arlene had to put up with! On the first page of the book on grieving, it says that we are all different and unique!  Seeee!

We all interpret information differently based on many reasons for sure.  LenaFromFargo (i.e. she might have been in the movie Fargo) was sitting in the airport reading the Fargo/Moorhead Forum. The headline blared, "12 Brazilian Soldiers Killed." She shook her head at the sad news, then turned to the stranger sitting next to her and asked, "How many is a Brazilian?"

A friend told me recently that they leave something out to remind them that they have to do something (e.g. leave their checkbook on the counter). That reminds me what has to be done but yet I always don’t get after it very fast! I do that, yes I do.  Sometimes I leave it there for quite some time before I do it.  I have tooooo laugh at myself many times.  Then one day I feel like doing it and I do it or I have toooo for some reason.  The screwdriver has been on the washing machine for several days to remind me to put a screw in the door.  The door keeps working sooooo I haven’t done it yet!!!  Sooooo do you think that maybe this virus reminds folks that they are going to die (i.e. sometime), and they are scared tooooo die?  JoeDeath says—Everyone is scared of death.  You think that is true?  Maybe that is why many folks buy toilet paper!  A friend was waiting in line to pay for his pizza at Casey’s (i.e. 6 feet apart).  A gal about 25 who was ahead of him and says to him empathically—we are all going to die!  My friend told her that it wasn’t that bad; you might be over-reacting a little bit.  If you are soooo worried about dying, why are you buying that pack of cigarettes?  She told him she has been smoking since 7^th grade and can’t quit.  Huh, interesting!

WorldClassLarry says--It depends how you look at it. Coach says that context is more important that content.  This is how he explains that.  If we can change our thinking from what we got a.k.a. content to our attitude a.k.a. context, life will be much better.  He says that stuff constantly changes but our rock-solid positive attitude doesn’t. Suck it up cupcake and let’s get going!  What Coach  just said is perfectly clear to some of you and maybe not at all tooooo others!  haha You can interpret it how it fits your ego; it’s up to you. Here is something else to think about; I believe this verse— For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  How do you believe that, or do you believe that at all?  You can interpret it the way you want based on your many experiences.  Coach says—Much of what we get is what we expect and anticipate.  If we expect and anticipate that we are going to get bad stuff, we will and if we anticipate and expect we are going to get good stuff, we will.  All folks get good stuff and bad stuff in their life, without exception.  What we get is based on our attitude of anticipation and expectation.  Willie Nelson said—Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.

ThePersonFromNorthOfTown (i.e. who thinks different than most folks) says--To stop defeating yourself, you must stop deceiving yourself. You need to take an honest look at your life, face the truth, and deal with the issues a.k.a. reality. What in your life are you pretending isn’t a problem or you’re addicted to? What are you saying “It’s no big deal” about?  Maybe it’s time to regroup and start over! It appears that many business models will have to change.  Many businesses, family budgets, education methods, churches, etc. will not make it by using the same old models.  No matter how much folks don’t like to change; it’s probably a time when organizations might have to change or be burnt toast!  Maybe it’s a good time to reevaluate current models and maybe make adjustments, even regroup and maybe start over especially if the old model wasn’t working that good during good times.  Da!  LuckieEddie says—There is a time you got to quit kicking a dead horse and this might be the time!  JoeMessup says—We all mess up, but what we do after we mess up is what makes the difference.  Do we just wallow in the mess up or do we bounce back?  Such is life.

I read this one morning while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it--“Napoleon Bonaparte was the emperor of France and a feared military leader. One day, Napoleon’s beloved horse got loose and ran away from the army camp. One of the soldiers, a private, immediately took off and chased after it. The soldier eventually caught up to the horse, guided it back to the camp, bathed it, and then returned it to Napoleon. Engrossed in other matters, Napoleon didn’t even bother to acknowledge the soldier. However, at some point, he looked up and said three simple words: “Thank you, Colonel.” The soldier then left, packed up his bags, and moved into the officers’ quarters. There was no need for paperwork or an announcement. If Napoleon said he was a colonel, that’s all that was necessary.”  When you say to someone in a conversation, my friend, it means a lot (i.e. that is if you do it sincerely and not manipulatively—you and they know your intention if you are real or a phony (i.e. even a small kid can figure that out).  It doesn’t have to be a huge massive production but maybe even be doing it casually might have more of an impact (i.e. they will hear it and it will affect them).  Do you like it when someone calls you their friend?  I do. You can interpret the feeling of being called a friend all differently. Such is life.

As the song says—After you’ve been having steak for a long time, beans beans taste fine!  I think many folks are going to have to regroup and start over.  I hope many folks like beans.  Our economy and personal spending has been fat for some time.  Many folks probably will now have a very skinny income.  It probably will affect many lifestyles.  No question.  TomSmart asks—Soooo does that mean that folks will actually become physically skinny?  I don’t know but during the Great Depression, the pictures I have seen, I didn’t see fat folks.  Some friends led me by example—I just gave to the local Food Bank.  I’m not bragging about this but want you to think about giving as well (i.e. I can’t suggest it if I don’t do it—talk is cheap but it takes money to buy food—or you can pray; pray that someone else will give their money haha).  I understand that there is a huge massive need.  They need to buy beans and rice.  I say that as a large percentage of the world population lives on just that—beans and rice (i.e. like 50%).  Why?  Because it’s nutritional and cheap.  Americans seem to like burgers and fries more!  They live fatter and are fatter.  It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out; just look around. That’s just reality! JoeFruitcake says—But I don’t like beans and rice; I like burgers and fries!

JoeBlow asks--Why do “anonymous” always think they are sooooo smart and know all the answers?  I don’t know JoeBlow but we probably judge folks more by what they do and act than what they say.  It’s easy to say something but harder to live up to what we say.  It’s easy to preach to others how to live their life than actually live our life like we tell others tooooo. LuckieEddie says—I know folks who wear big cowboy hats but own no cattle!  Saturday question—How can some folks know sooooo much about my grieving but are not me and maybe never lost a spouse (i.e. maybe they are super-natural or think they are)? WorldClassLarry says--There is no education like personal experience and that isn’t even all accurate because we are all different and have different circumstances, maybe!  A friend, who lost his wife, told me this recently—"Time goes both fast and also slow. Simply the truth for this guy.” You folks may interpret that statement based on your experiences, but you are not him. Yes, he might be regrouping and starting over, maybe.  

None of these writings are considered revelations and they surely cannot be deemed as authoritative. They might have even added to your (mis)information overload. Soooo move on with your day; it's early yet!  MissPerfect, do you want crackers and cheese with your whine? Was just wondering.

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—For mending someone’s broken heart, the best glue is compassion.

you know--no, I don't know

Disclaimer:  This “It’s Saturday” is not designed to push you or for you to learn how to push someone else.  No no!  BUT we live in a culture that many folks are pushed or are pushy.  CrazyMarvin says--This pressure is designed to put pressure on the opponents to try to force errors; in our culture, it has become de rigueur.  This “It’s Saturday” will not create a world pandemic; that’s for sure. Soooo sit back, drink your coffee and even scratch your head maybe! Quite often I not only don’t know what I’m doing; I don’t know what I’m saying. Of course, that is based on your thinking!  You know—no, I don’t know if I’m right or you are right or if either one of us is right now do we! Much of what we think is what we called in the appraisal business a WAG appraisal—wild ass guess!

If you know this, you will know it but if you don’t know it you won’t know it.  I had an acquaintance ask me this week if I know any one they can help who is struggling financial or for other reasons because of this coronavirus crises.  I said, I didn’t but if I hear of anyone, I will let you know.  I toooo would like to help someone. I think there will be folks who will really be hurt and you and I need to step up. Yes we do—my opinion.  JoeBlow (i.e. who is a pillar of the community) says—erv, talk is cheap; it’s easier to just say we will pray for them.  BigTalkWillie says—Soooo if I ask someone if I can help them and they say yes, then I have tooooo.  Maybe I don’t want to help them in the way they want help.  Then what do I do?  Do I apply strings or just disappear or just don’t ask?

WildWilly (i.e. who seems to understand things once in a while) says--Confessing our inadequacy can be hard. Humbling our self is rarely easy or fun.  AverageJoe says--Pride is a killer.  It takes a big person to say that we don’t know or we are wrong or someone else is better (i.e. oh that ego).  A friend and I were having breakfast, yes he had me over and made me breakfast.  We had a great time philosophizing (i.e. most of it was probably not that important as we don’t know what we are talking about most of the time).  But I asked him for some help.  I got an email/text from someone who used messaging by U.S. Cellular.  It had no signature and just a number and I didn’t know the number.  I had no idea who it was from.  It was a nice message, but I thought it was from a person who would sometimes make things very generic (i.e. not very personal).  My friend suggested that I send a message back thanking them and asking who this is from instead of jumping to a bad conclusion.  I did and it was from a golf buddy who I was happy to hear from sharing his concern for me about Arlene’s death, not the person who I sorta kinda thought negative thoughts about.  Oh man!  Good advice.  AverageJoe says—erv, find out the facts before jumping to a conclusion.  BUT I thought for sure it was this other person!  Da! I thought I knew for sure but no, I didn’t know!

I called U.S. Cellar, my phone company which also supplies me with my data package witch includes my wi-fi as my bill went up a little.  I asked Jenny this question and she informed me that I lost a 24-month discount. She said—let’s see what I can do for you.  Long story short, we changed my account to a hot spot on my phone for my other devices which gave me a way better product and saved me $25 a month.  As she was doing this, we had a very nice visit. She was working from home and has two children with the oldest being in first grade; her husband has been out of the country for 2 months.  I told her wow you have your hands full—yabut we go forward with a good attitude; it is working out—you are a good person—I believe all folks have good in them; it’s just that we all have a choice and I elect to try to do good—you are my kind of person!  By the way, the new plan I have is called “even better.” Now that made me laugh. Flip the pancake—I bought a grill from Home Depot that was assembled.  I was putting it on the patio and the lid was up-side down in the fire box.  I tried to put in on but the pins for the hinges weren’t there.  I looked inside the firebox and the manual was there and written on it was that there were no pins.  I laughed.  Sooooo I called Home Depot and said—You guys made me laugh, I told them the story.  I can’t believe you sold me a grill with not all the parts and you even knew it (i.e. they must endorse the saying--caveat emptor).  He didn’t know what to say.  l laughed again; I thought that was funny!  I guess we all make choices.  Such is life.

A friend tells me that when folks say to him, you know, he says to them, no I don’t know, will you tell me?  Folks always think you know but most of the time they don’t know, particularly like when you think they should know.  Hey, folks have been educated differently by their past environment and their current environment soooo don’t assume anything. They probably don’t think like you.  I was at some friends’ place for dinner the other night—fried chicken and mashed potatoes and gravy.  I haven’t had that for years.  Oh was it good; I thought I was in cholesterol heaven.  My friend was seasoning the gravy he was making with salt.  He took it out of a container on the counter that I never saw anything like before.  I asked him what that was.  He called it a salt pig.  He said cooks use that.  He acted like I should know what it was, I didn’t know, never saw one before.  It made me laugh.  My Mom, Anna, never used that back on the farm growing up. 

I jog on the golf course and was on the back side adjoining a field road the other morning. There was a guy out with his three big dogs. We introduced ourselves.  He asked where I lived, and I told him a couple blocks east of the golf course and then he told me that he lives in the newer house on the golf course.  He said he had a girlfriend for several years who lived with him but she has moved out soooo he’s all alone with his 3 dogs but another girlfriend might move in with him soon.  Soooo you drive that truck by your house.  He says—I do but I don’t, you know.  I said—no I don’t know.  Well, I’m the owner and operator of that truck but I haven’t driven it for 4 or 5 weeks and I don’t plan to drive it until this virus thing is safe; it could be a long time.  I don’t want to die and besides the rates are low right now soooo I can’t make much money anyway.  The problem is that I have bills toooo pay and no income; those folks are just going to have to wait; that’s all what’s toooo it!  Soooo should I help this guy?  Will he get help from the government?  Do I want to feed his three dogs, his girlfriend and make his camper payment?  You know, I just don’t know!

A friend who is a retired banker said that in the banking industry there is a saying—Half of their customers are 2-pay checks away from bankruptcy.  There could be a lot of foreclosures of houses and repos of recreational toys.  Doesn’t look good to me.  BUT the banks will probably complain to the government and the government will probably bail them out.  And who is the government?  It looks like we have a plan in effect. Let her roll!  BUT maybe there will be a better plan; You know—no, I don’t know. And maybe many of the folks won’t have it soooo bad.  Could be. I don’t know.  Saturday question--Will folks still pay exorbitant prices to go to sporting events?  ItchieBitchie says—Of course, that’s essential! Besides, maybe for half the folks, this crisis probably will not affect their lifestyle at all or very little. You think sooooo? That is what I thought.

I saw an elderly friend at Casey’s the other day.  I asked him how is doing (i.e. he lost his wife recently).  He said the standard answer—ok.  BUT I can’t sleep—is it because of your wife’s death—I don’t know; I don’t think sooooo but I don’t know for sure; I’m soooo tired that my legs can hardly hold me up but when I go to bed, I can’t sleep.  I just wonder, I don’t know for sure, if isolation is a cause of many dysfunctional behavioral issues.  Loneness etc. is not good.  I’m sorta kinda getting bored.  I can only work in the yard about soooo long.  I am way happier when I talk and am around folks.  Exercise helps me a lot BUT some days I have to force myself to exercise.  I just don’t always feel like doing it.  BUT I feel oh sooooo much better when I get done.  Such is life.

There is a whole lot of stuff I don’t know. For sure!  I know that; you do tooooo! Coach says—Beginning of wisdom is often understanding stuff we don’t know.  Does that make sense to you?  That is what I thought.  That understanding keeps us grounded and doesn’t let us get the big head in thinking we know everything (i.e. some folks think they do, and they are annoying to most folks—very pushy). I think a desire to learn is a good quality.  BUT you might think differently.  Especially if you think you know everything already! Sooooo I was doing some changes on how I wanted some communication sent to me about some investments (i.e. go paperless).  I wanted to modify my preference but found it difficult to do on their web site (i.e. I thought their web site to be not very friendly).  I called their tech guy Billy.  BillyTech said—I will just do it for you—no no, I want to learn—it is way easier for me to just do it for you, believe me! I really don’t know what he meant by that!  haha  Maybe some of you grand kids understand what he is saying; he’s maybe has talked to your grandparents.

I was listening to a pastor/friend during the beginning of his Sunday morning sermon.  He said this week he asked other pastors how they like doing their sermons live.  They said it is humbling.  Humbling in that it feels like they are being compared to other pastors a.k.a. exposed.  You know—no I don’t know!  Well, folks compare them to other pastors they listen tooooo and their methods, styles of presentation, beliefs, authenticity, viewability, attractiveness, effectiveness, content related to the current world etc.  They can listen to anyone they want.  Some friends tell me they listen to three sermons each Sunday (i.e. I assume they probably eventually watch the ones they think are the better ones).  It’s sorta kinda like a dog show!  I think the pastors were saying they don’t like to be compared!  I can understand that (i.e. everyone wants a trophy).  SusieQ (i.e. who is not a church goer) asks—There isn’t competition between churches or pastors is there? JoeChurchGoer says—Well, ya gotta have folks to pay the bills. A golf buddy/friend told me golfing the other day that a member of their church board told him that the new stimulus program is good for churches tooooo.  And the board member said—It’s “free real money” toooo yet! Soooo there you go!

Opportunity!  A friend was telling me last week that this isolation has been good for some younger mothers.  It has given them a chance to do things with their children that they don’t do very often.  Soooo on Good Friday, a couple of girls rang my door bell and had a homemade Easter card, bars and a cookie for me.  Their grandma was driving the car sooooo I assume she was the leader behind the project.  Another opportunity for her and her grandgirls.  It touched me and bet grandma and the grandgirls as well (i.e. the grandgirls had big smiles on their faces). My experiences teach me that stuff is forgotten much more than experiences.  Our CO family tells me that Denver and surrounding metro has started tradition of a nightly howl at 8:00 to show support of essential workers and say “hi” to neighbors, now includes fireworks in some neighborhoods. Neat! Fun opportunity for sure (i.e. my opinion)!

MyNeighborDownTheStreet asks—Where is all this money coming from for all these stimulus packages?  I read this while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it--Divine coincidence is an economic theory referring “to the property of New Keynesian models that there is no trade-off between the stabilization of inflation and of the welfare-relevant output gap … for central banks.” Don’t worry if you don’t understand that; economists don’t either! You know—no, I don’t know! I wonder what is going on here!  This might make you scratch your head—Maybe these stimulus packages might cost us the proverbial “an arm and a leg!”  Ouchy ouchy! BUT it’s only money!

The world is a different place than it was just a little while ago. Everyone is living a new reality and many aspects are quite alarming. The changes and effects are far reaching and there is no way to estimate how long lasting and permanent these changes may be. Some of you may think you know but I don’t know for sure. But then again, I’m just a little ol’ farm boy from a mile and quarter south of Roseland, MN. 

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

erv

MyFriendJean says—Money can buy time but not wisdom.

hypothetical

Whatever your feelings are, you cannot argue that Woddy Allen has written many amusing lines.  I like this one: “I’m not a fighter; I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys.”  Maybe your reflexes are faster than a tortoise, but how you react to this “It’s Saturday” will be very questionable.  For sure!  Let’s see what happens.  Such is life.

There was a shooting in our back yard. Not hypothetical. Oh no!  Gracie calls me and says the cop and Bobby chased a sick raccoon from their garage unto my front steps.  Sooooo I look out the window and yes, there they are with brooms getting this raccoon off my front steps.  They broom it around the house and tree it in my back yard. The cop pulls out his pistol and boom, plugs it! He was a regular died eye dick!  The headline in the local Butler County paper will read—Shooting in Erv Mellema’s back yard! A masked intruder was shot died by police while trying to escape by climbing a tree.  

A friend (i.e. an all-around-good-guy) invited me over for breakfast recently.  He made a German pancake.  It was really good.  This guy has talent let me tell ya!  ANYWAY he shared some wisdom with me.  He told me that he sent an email to his family about some family business.  He was trying to be funny (i.e. in his mind) but his sister took it personal (i.e. it wasn’t funny to her; he really hurt her feelings).  He had to eat crow and he apologize profusely (i.e. humbled himself to her and the experience was humbling to him).  He really felt bad. Soooo this week I was reading James and I had this written beside this verse --…you double minded…humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up—said by this friend in a men’s get-to-gather some time ago—it was my friend I had breakfast with).  Huh interesting.  Our daughter reminded me the other day to not take other people’s reactions personal (i.e. you just can’t figure others out sometimes).  More wisdom.  And folks, don’t take my attempted humor serious or thinking it’s directed at you personally; I’m not serious and it surely isn’t directed at you (i.e. ok, maybe just at one of you haha).  Such is life.

I read this while eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it--“I knew the risk. The yellow fuel warning light was illuminated in my car. But I had driven many times before while the light was on and had never run out of gas. Because I had gotten away with it before, I believed I could do it again. A few miles down the road, my engine sputtered and I found myself stranded. I had become complacent, and it cost me. In our passage today, we see that the Israelites had also become complacent. In their renewed peace, power, and prosperity, a false sense of security had taken root. They used their resources to make themselves more comfortable and glorify themselves. They were slothful, gluttonous, self-centered, and arrogant. God sent Amos to warn the leaders of the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel. Just as other great cities around them had been destroyed because of their pride and complacency, he warned them that they also would be destroyed. He showed them their sin was unacceptable to God and would not be ignored. There would be a price to pay.” Do you think this is a hypothetical story?  Do you think this could happen to America?  Or is that toooo a hypothetical scenario in your opinion?  I have said this before, and the story hasn’t changed (i.e. my opinion)—The snowball is going down the mountain at a very fast pace and getting bigger and bigger.  I don’t think it can be stopped without a major situation (i.e. it is beyond control).  BUT God is God and He can do anything he wants when he wants toooo (i.e. He is in control).  I believe that.  Come on folks, we are stubborn, cocky, stiff-necked, self-centered folks. Don’t kid yourself.  It’s all about the money!!!!

I get/gotten a lot of encouragement from many of you.  Thanksamillion! This is what I got from a friend I made at a State Basketball Tournament game probably about 10 years ago (i.e. we were sitting next to each other).  He lost his wife 7 years ago.  He said—erv, you will never get over it, but you will get through it.  Here is some advice I got from a golf buddy/friend I made in AZ--Pastor Rick Warren said it well when he wrote, "This life on earth is merely a temporary assignment". WorldClassLarry told me—You can’t get to heaven until you move to the next level.  BigPete emailed me—erv, big hug from over 6 feet away. Your faith will pull you through (i.e. he’s not a believer—or the last time I asked him he wasn’t).  He amazes me; he is a friend who accepts me as I am, and I accept him as he is.

There are nice folks out there; some of those nice folks are you guys, for sure.  You know who you are and you know if you aren’t!  GeorgeTheCrook says—I really don’t know where I’m on that one.  ANYWAY, last Sunday, Palm Sunday, our CO family went on a 10-mile bike ride.  That is pretty good ride for Jimmer (i.e. ya gotta get them started early).  So the kids found a plastic Easter egg by the trail—they opened it and it had some candy in it with a note that their next egg would be under the bridge—they were excited and rode hard to the next bridge but didn’t find an egg soo they reversed direction and found another bridge; yep there was the egg under the bridge with candy and a note saying that their last egg would be down the trail on the hill with a nice view to enjoy their last treat.  Soooo they rode hard again and climbed the hill and found a package of Hostess cupcakes.  Some person(s) gave a couple of kids a fun day.  I think those folks are pretty neat! Whoever they are.  They will never know now will they.  BUT...!

There is an age-old discussion that faith should be a manufactured feeling and is learned, like a robotic feeling like artificial intelligence and some think it’s more of an emotional feeling.  I think maybe some of each (i.e. my opinion).  RickyRick says—"There is very little in the Bible about the technique of knowing God’s will. But there are thousands of verses that talk about developing a loving relationship with Jesus Christ. Why? Because God’s will is a relationship. The better you get to know him, the less confusion you’re going to have about what his will is. When you get to know God, everything else becomes secondary.” I was at a church service the Sunday before the lock out with a friend and the pastor used the lyrics from a song—God is good and the congregation responded, God is good all the time.  Then he said—God is good is good all the time and the congregation responded, God is good.  It was easy to tell that the folks thought it was uplifting and encouraging (i.e. my opinion). In this situation (i.e. the beginning of the coronavirus world), it appeared it was a perfect saying for our emotions directed by this pastor.  ItchieBitchie (i.e. a regular hyper dog) says--It can depend on the setting and also the realness of the person saying it (i.e. not if it is a manufactured, robotic saying).  Some of you might think the saying is hypothetical.  And some of you totally believe it.  Why the difference! 

Can you be comfortable regardless of the situation?  How much of a feeling is just in our head do you think?  AverageJoe says—erv, you don’t know what’s in my head; there is a lot of junk that you don’t have a clue about. Maybe our feelings are just hypothetical.  We had a few pieces of furniture at the memory unit in Arlene’s room.  When friends of the church hauled them back, they smelled to me. Was it an actual smell or was it in my head?  The next day the main piece was on the burn pile.  I didn’t like the smell.  I think my smelling was good!  I do. BUT it might have been in my head. I was telling our family that I can’t go out and buy new furniture; folks will say—look, as soon as Arlene dies, he buys new furniture.  Our kids said—Dad, no one will know and no one really cares.  Maybe it was just a hypothetical thought or feeling I had.  Could be. Or maybe not.

MissPerferfect says—When we get desperate, formality goes out the window. When we aren’t desperate, we imprison ourselves in customs and formalities a.k.a. rules and laws (i.e. sounds like the Pharisees). This is not hypothetical.  Oh no.  Things are changing and will always change.  I think that this virus thing will drastically change our future in many ways (i.e. my opinion). MyBigSister (i.e. only in age) told me recently that she had an examination of her eyes by Zoom. The doctor told her she had an infection and gave her a prescription.  Yes, things are changing.  The social distancing has really made folks inventive and creative in many ways (e.g. churches—doing things that they said they would never do—what?!—maybe this will change some things for ever—like working from home--GeorgeTheCrook says--I bet my money that there will be changes—it will never be the same).  You think sooooo?  That is what I thought. My cleaning lady just called and told me she would be working from home and will send me instructions on what to do. 

Soooo I called my doc and asked him if I could have a zoom exam of my head as I get confused some.  He said sure (i.e. a Master Card can get you most anything), just put your ear up to the camera and I will examine your head.  He muttered, oh! uh, yikes!  Pretty bad huh doc? I can’t find anything in there except a few cobwebs!  When I was a kid, I wanted to have a Daniel Boone raccoon cap, you know the kind with the tail; Chester and Anna never gave me my wish.  But I felt like the frontiersman Daniel Boone was; yes I did.  This is what Daniel said—He was once asked, “Have you ever gotten lost in the wilderness?” He said, “No, I’ve never been lost. I’ve been bewildered for weeks at a time, but I’ve never been lost.”

I read this in our Booster Group book that shows that others get confused too (i.e. even world-famous folks).  Sir Winston Churchill said—Neither the French nor the Americans baffled him. Not even the Nazi Germans left him bewildered. But the Russians unpredictable and illogical actions frequently throw him for a loop. After another Russian surprising decision he said—“It is a riddle, wrapped up in a mystery, inside an enigma.”

I understand that some “hand on employees” are complaining that their bosses/supervisors are working from home.  They want them to work at the office and not from home.  They say, it ain’t fair.  Well CharlieBrown, the world isn't always interested in justice and fairness. Well, some jobs you just can’t do at home (e.g. medical jobs, truck drivers, convenience store employees, grocery store employees, drug store folks, police folks, factory workers, etc.).  Ya, maybe it is not fair; I don’t know.  The only thing that is fair is The Butler County Fair and that is in June.  Maybe those that have to actually go to the job site think those that work from home are playing computer games and drinking beer.  I don’t know. There is a study that says--Folks who work from home are more productive. That study might have been done by an owner's two stay-at-home black labs!  I did ask a friend who is a business executive about how it’s going working from home.  He said, it’s not much different as I spend about 70% of my daily time on the phone but he would rather be in the office setting.  They, being the health officials, suggest that these types of job personnel should work from home.  Sooooo who is top management or boards going to listen to.  We know the answer now don’t we.  CadillacJack asks—I don’t know, who will they listen toooo?  MaryEater from Chattanooga, TN says—I don’t drink beer while working from home but each time I pass the frig, I take something to eat; if this continues toooo long I will need to get some bigger britches!  Oh, I bet you folks who think it’s unfair that some folks get to work from home really snort about the employees who get full pay for 3 or 4 months and don’t have tooooo work.  I figured that would put a burr under your saddle!  JoeMagic says—Now that is magic (i.e. not hypothetical)! GeorgeTheCrook says—Yabut flip the pancake, soooo just maybe the folks who are complaining that they have to work should be happy that they have a job and getting paid (i.e. there might be others who are envious of them).  I bet they never thought of that!  Such is life.

CrazyMarvin says--But in the nick of time I figured it out. It is a good thing, or it would not have been good folks. This is what Crazy Marvin figured out in the nick of time—Riches are a good handmade, but the worst mistress! CrazyMarvin, I’m going to cut you some slack. Yes, I am. I think that your situation is not as bad as you make it. Like every disaster, the situation is not as bad as the media portrays it.  JoeAdvertiser says--Bad news (i.e. bader the better—we-are-all-going-to-die news) and disasters are what folks like to hear and watch.  If more folks watch, we get more advertising dollars (i.e. more viewers—it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out).  A golf buddy who manages a grocery store said their sales have doubled.  He hopes this bad news continues! Saturday question—What do folks do with all that food? Remember what my mentor would say to me—erv, when things are good, folks think they will be good forever and when things are bad, they think they will be bad for ever! 

I believe that heaven will be indescribable, unbelievably great; way beyond expectations. The only reason I can believe that is because of what Jesus did on Easter morning. The resurrection gives us hope. Without the resurrection, we wouldn’t have a chance at heaven.

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

erv

MyFreindJean says—Forget what you have done for other people and remember what other people have done for you.