I'M NOT IRISH AND PROUD OF IT HODGEPODGE!

        Today is hump day again. Winter is on its last legs. DIE WINTER, DIE! Yesterday was Saint Patrick's Day! Hence the title of this blog entry. It is also time for another Wednesday Hodgepodge. Joyce at "From This Side of the Pond" has come up with another set of questions to make us pause and think a little bit. I hope you enjoy this edition of the Hodgepodge.

1. Share a favorite song, book, or movie title containing the word green?

     A favorite movie is "The Green Mile" with Tom Hanks and Michael Clark Duncan. It was exceptionally well acted.

2. Ralph Waldo Emerson is quoted as saying, 'Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect.' Would you agree? Are you a believer in luck?

     I do believe in luck. To my mind Luck is the providence of God. I believe that He is in control of everything and that He seeks opportunities to bless us. Our God is a good God.

3. Spring water, Hot Springs, handspring, spring fling, spring break, spring fever, offspring...which 'spring' word best applies to something in your day, week, or life right now?

     Offspring - Today SWMBO and I had our granddaughters over for a few hours. They are such a joy to have around. SWMBO and I are blessed!

4. What's something you do to make yourself look or feel more confident?

     Shave, get a haircut and put on a necktie. How you dress does affect your attitude and confidence level.

5.  It's National Celery Month...are you a fan? If so, what's a snack or dish you enjoy that calls for celery?

     I am a fan. My favorite celery snack is celery filled with either peanut butter or a flavored cream cheese.

6. What's one thing you wish you'd learned sooner?

     I wish I had learned the importance of taking better care of my health. I am unable to do those things I could have done if I was more healthy. Old age is taking it's toll.

7. Would you like to own a second home? If so where would you want that home to be?

     If money was no object, SWMBO and I would love to have a second home on a lake. We would love to have a three bedroom log cabin with a porch and/or balcony that overlooks the lake.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

     Today the world is a sadder place. Yesterday, Curtis Winstead passed away and graduated to glory. Curtis had been valiantly battling cancer for several months with his devoted wife by his side every step of the way. His battle ended yesterday.
     The world is better for Curtis having lived among us and at the same time is diminished by his passing.
     Curtis was an exemplary Christian man, Christian husband and Christian father. Curtis and his family worshipped with us at the Manchester, NH, church of Christ for a few years. He was such an example and so well thought of that he was appointed as a church Elder. He was a kind and gentle man who loved God and loved God's people.
     Curtis served our Nation in the U.S. Air Force where he attained the rank of Colonel. Those who served with him descibe him as being an exemplary officer and commander. He earned their respect and affection by the way that he treated everyone and his strength of character. 
     He retired from the USAF a couple of years ago, his last tour of duty being in Afghanistan where he served as a Base Commander. He and his wife settled in West Virginia. Sadly most of his retirement years was spent battling his illness.
     Like I said, the world is a sadder place today. If your are so inclined please remember Curtis' wife Theresa and his two daughters in your prayers as they mourn his passing.