A LATE SUMMER HODGEPODGE!

      Welcome back Wednesday Hodgepodge! Welcome back to our Hodgepodge Mistress, Joyce Daley. Thank you for another wonderful set of writing prompts. So, without further ado, I present the Hodgepodge....

1. What has been the highlight of your summer so far? (It's still summer people!)
     Each Labor Day the church meets at one of the members house and food gets cooked, salads, desserts and drinks get contributed to the cause, and we have a wonderful time of sharing food, conversation and games. It is usually the highlight of the summer.

2. What do you wish you'd done more of this summer? Less of?
     I wish I had done more writing, specifically on my blog. I could have done with fewer doctor visits. (See Random Thought below)

3. Something you're looking forward to on your September calendar?
     My beloved SWMBO expressed the desire to travel to Canada for a few days. I'm thinking that we might visit the maritime Provinces. She's thinking of visiting Niagara Falls from the Canadian side. We'll keep you posted.

4. Best/favorite book you've read this summer?
     I'm still reading it. It's called "The Blood Sugar Solution" by Dr. Mark Hyman. I am trying to get better control of my blood sugar levels.

5. Share something positive, encouraging, or uplifting here.
     My beloved SWMBO is responding to her cancer treatments. We recently received clearance from her oncologist to travel. She has felt the urge to travel, hence my response to question #3 above.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

     Expanding my response to question #2 I had nothing better to do this summer so I developed a couple of kidney stones. Anyone who has had kidney stones will tell you how much they hurt. 

     I woke up around 2:30 a.m. one morning, in significant pain. Nothing I tried took the edge off of the pain. So around 2:30 p.m. I told SWMBO what's been happening and that I needed to go to Urgent Care. She then knew I was in some distress because I NEVER go to the doctor unless I am dire straits.

    At Urgent Care the doctor administered a number of tests that revealed that I had a kidney stone lodged in each kidney. The one in my right kidney was not causing any mischief. The one in my left kidney was causing a lot of mischief. I felt like I was being kidney punched by Muhammed Ali (sp?) . I underwent a surgical procedure to remove the stone. 

     It has been a few weeks since the surgery and I'm feeling much better.  I hope that the remaining stone continues to behave itself. I further hope that I do not develop any more stones.

     Have a wonderful week.

KUDOS TO THE EAGLES HODGEPODGE!

      Greetings from my top secret bunker located far beneath the surface of the earth. I have relocated to my bunker to protect my beloved SWMBO and I from rampaging Philadelphia Eagles fans. All kidding aside, congratulations to the Philadelphia Eagles for their first ever Super Bowl win. Likewise, kudos to my acquaintances who are Eagles fans. Enjoy the win Eagles Nation. You earned it with your long-suffering devotion to your team.
     Another Wednesday is upon us. Old Man Winter is dying, and not too soon. Another Wednesday Hodgepodge is upon us. Thank you Joyce Daley for another set of writing prompts. I look forward to this weekly writing exercise. 
     So, Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Hodgepodge!

1. February can be a little bit tricky given the weather and the winter and the whatnot. I read a list (here) of things you can do to make your February brighter which included-start planning your next trip, take more baths, make your own chocolate covered strawberries, and exercise in preparation for swimsuit season. Anything on the list you might try? Which suggestion on the list appeals to you most? Tell us something not on the list that helps make your February brighter. 
     February is one of the harshest months of the year. We have to contend with bitter cold and incessant snowfall and the Winter blahs. 
     I might select exercising more simply because I can do with more exercise. The good ship "How I Look in a Bathing Suit" has long sailed and is lost at sea. Also I'm not a "bath" person. I much prefer a hot shower.
     A couple of things that I might suggest is (1) Walk through a mall, and (2) Go outside on a crisp, cold day and get some color in your cheeks.
     It is good that February is a short month.

2. Tell us about something you've seen or done recently that you'd say was 'super'?
     On Sunday evening our church small group met for a devotional. Afterwards we settled in to watch our beloved Patriots win their sixth Super Bowl. Of course, we were profoundly disappointed at the outcome of the game. However, there was plant of fellowship, good food and loud yelling. It was a super evening. 

3. Best thing you ate in a 'bowl' last week?
     My wife made a hamburger chili that was wonderful. Fortunately she made a lot and there was some leftover. That is what I had.

4. Something you're 'cheering' for right now?
     I am cheering for the Red Sox Equipment Truck that departed from Fenway Park on Monday enroute to Florida. That means Winter's demise is at hand.

5. The Winter Olympics begin Friday, February 9th in Pyeong Chang, South Korea. On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being all in and 1 being no interest whatsoever) how interested are you in the games? Which event do you most want to see (you'll find a list here).
     My interest level in the Winter Olympics is around a 5 or 6. The event that I am most interested in is Ice Hockey. I will switch to the coverage from time to time while watching other things, but I will not be watching all the coverage.

6. Insert your own random thought here.
      I have two things I want to share with all who care to read them.
      First, I congratulate the Philadelphia Eagles for their Super Bowl win. They played an superb game and earned the win. I further congratulate them for a most excellent season. Having a back up quarterback step up and perform as well as Nick Foles did after the number one guy went down to injury was exciting to watch. Therefore, I thank the Eagles for making this season a memorable one. I look forward to a rematch next year.

    Second, there are a number of events that signal the coming death of Winter. The first such death knell is the Super Bowl. The next one is the equipment truck leaving Fenway Park and driving to Florida. The next after that is pitchers and catchers report for Major League Baseball Spring Training. Then, all the players report for Spring Training. DIE WINTER! DIE!

     Have a blessed week everyone!     

BEHOLD, THE IDES OF MAY HODGEPODGE!

     Good morning to one and all. I was absent from last week's Hodgepodge due to the fact that I had a memory access malfunction (mam) and forgot. Hopefully the hardware that resulted in the "mam" is now working properly.
     Thank you Joyce for the Hodgepodge. I am happy to participate and enjoy the exercise each week.
     If you have a blog of your own, click on over to "From This Side of the Pond" and join in on the fun. If you don't have a bog, start one and then click on over and join in on the fun. And now...this week's Hodgepodge! 

1. May 17th is National Pack Rat Day. Sidebar-should we be celebrating this? Hmmm...

Are you a pack rat? Even if you're not a full fledged pack rat, most people have one thing or another they struggle to part with. Tell us what's yours.
    I am most certainly guilty of being a pack rat. My office is best described as being "organized chaos."  I have two desks in my office and I am writing this in SWMBO's office because my desks are too cluttered with stuff. I have trouble parting with anything,  for reasons I am unclear about.  Perhaps I'll make that a project this year...and then again, perhaps not.

2. What are two things you know you should know how to do, but you don't?
     Only two? I think I should have a better understanding of maintaining small engine tools such as lawn mowers, power generators, chain saws, etc. I should have a better understanding of electricity and how to perform minor repairs of light switches, outlets, etc.

3. Do you crave sugar? Do you add sugar to your coffee and/or tea? Do you use artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes? When dining out is dessert a given? Are you someone who has slain the sugar dragon, and if so tell us how you did it.
     I do indeed crave sugar! I add sugar to coffee but not tea. I do not use any artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes. When dining out SWMBO and I are usually too full to contemplate, much less eat, dessert. The sugar dragon is alive and well.

4. What's a trend it took a while for you to come round to, but now you can't imagine living without?
     My beloved SWMBO dragged me kicking and screaming into the 21st century and forced me, that's right forced me, to get an iPhone. Now that I'm hooked, I can't imagine living without it.

5. What's a song that reminds you of a specific incident in your life? Please elaborate.
     That's easy! The Rolling Stones "Jumping Jack Flash." This song evokes the  memory of me playing catch with my best childhood friend in the street in front of my house with that song blasting through the screen windows. 

6. Insert your own random thought here.
     At the beginning of the baseball season my beloved Red Sox were predicted by the talking heads to lead the American League and potentially be in the World Series this year. Well once again the predictions appear to be falling way short. The Red Sox are just a couple of games past .500 and are about 9 games out of first place in their division. There is still much more baseball yet to be played and there is still hope that the Sox can turn it around...but I'm not holding my breath.
     On a positive note, the Boston Celtics have exceeded expectations and have made it to the Conference Finals. If they beat the Cleveland Cavaliers and Lebron James, they will play for the NBA Championship. Most talking heads don't give the Celtics a chance to take four games from the Cavaliers. They say at most the Celtics may win one or two games but the Cavaliers will be making a return to the NBA Championship Series. 
    I take hope in the fact that the talking heads are often wrong in their predictions. Have a great week and...GO CELTICS!

A COMEBACK IN THE MAKING HODGEPODGE!

     In the immortal words of General Douglas MacArthur, "I have returned." I have been away from blogging and the Hodgepodge for awhile due to my beloved SWMBO's need for me to be there for her as she went through her stem cell transplant. She, and by she I mean we, had a really rough time of it. We are 67 days post transplant and although we still have a long way to go, SWMBO is beginning to get back some of her strength and stamina and is returning to some semblance of normal. 
     Many of you have offered prayers and words of encouragement over the past few months. They were of much comfort and help and are very much appreciated. Thank you...and you know who you are. Now onto the Hodgepodge...


1. April showers bring May flowers or so the saying goes. Has your April been filled with showers? Do you carry an umbrella, wear a slicker, or make a run for it? Besides rain, what else has filled your April? 
     We received a good amount of rain here in the Granite State of N.H. Our drought has been significantly abated as a result. 
     I don't usually carry an umbrella but I do keep one in the car just to keep my options open...and for my beloved SWMBO. I do not wear a rain slicker, I make a break for it, running between the raindrops. 
     My April has been filled with doctor appointments and taking care of most of the household chores, i.e. cooking, cleaning, laundry and such. SWMBO is really motivated to get stronger because, although she really appreciates my efforts, my domestic skills are greatly inferior to hers. 

2. What's something you could you give a 30-minute presentation on at a moment's notice and with zero preparation?
     There are three subjects that I would feel comfortable talking about for 30 minutes extemporaneously...(1) The Bible, (2) American History; and (3) Constitutional Law.

3. Share with us a favorite food memory from childhood.
     My maternal grandparents lived with us during my childhood. The smell of onions cooking often wafted through the house. My grandmother put onions in pretty much everything that she made. To this day the smell of cooking onions evokes some wonderful memories of my childhood.

4. What's a song you thought you knew the lyrics to, but later discovered you were wrong?
       My song is "Stairway to Heaven." What I thought Robert Plant was singing was "There's a wino down the road."  What he was actually singing was "As we wind on down the road." I'm sure that there have been other songs where I misheard the lyrics but this is the one that comes to mind. 

5. According to one travel website, the most overrated tourist attractions in America are-
Niagara Falls (NY), Hollywood Walk of Fame (California), Times Square (NYC), Epcot (FL), Seattle Space Needle (WA), and Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market (Boston). How many of these have you seen in person? Did you feel like a tourist? Did you care? Tell us about a place (not on the list) you've visited that might be considered a tourist trap, but you love it anyway.
     I've been to Niagara Falls and Faneuil Hall and Boston Market. SWMBO and I enjoyed both venues. I don't know if "overrated" is accurate with respect to these two tourist sites. Boston is teeming with American History and Niagara Falls is a natural wonder.  Sea World in San Diego is a tourist trap because it is so expensive. However, I do love to visit the park when I have the opportunity.

6. Your signature clothing item?

     If you tortured me until I screamed out a clothing item, I suppose I would say a "crusher" style hat. I have a camouflaged hat that I wear during cooler times of the year and a navy blue Boston Red Sox hat I wear during the warmer times. When I'm not wearing one of my crusher hats I wear a Red Sox or Boston Bruins ball cap.

7. What's an experience you've had you think everyone should experience at least once? Why?
     This is really a tough question and a great question. My answer is "unconditional love." Everyone should experience unconditional love at least once in their life. As a Christian, I have experienced the unconditional love of God. As a man, I have experienced the unconditional love of a woman, my beloved SWMBO. The beauty is that I still experience their unconditional love time and time again. I am lavishly, and undeservedly, blessed in this regard.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
     On February 15th SWMBO entered the hospital for her stem cell transplant. She had the transplant on February 17th. While in the hospital a number of side issues arose that made SWMBO's recovery difficult in the extreme. She spent three weeks in the hospital, being discharged on March 8th. 
     It was really great having her home, but she was very weak and tired. Her first Sunday home I had to take her to the emergency room because she had become seriously dehydrated which dangerously lowered her blood pressure  and caused her heart to beat erratically. She was stabilized and rehydrated with IV fluids and sent home that same day.
     It took a few weeks for SWMBO to recover a small level of strength and stamina and to overcome a myriad of side issues that cropped up.
     Today, 67 days after transplant she is much stronger but she is not where she was prior to the transplant. Doing simple physical tasks still tires her out quickly, so she needs to rest often. Progress is tediously slow but, thankfully, happens bit by bit every day.
     So, in a nutshell, that is what I've, and by I've I mean we've, been up to for the past several weeks.  It's good to be back. God bless all of you!

SNOW! WICKED COLD! YEP, IT'S WINTER IN NEW HAMPSHIRE!

     Hello to my fellow Hodgepodgers and anyone else who is stopping by for a visit. I hope that you are all well today. Thanks again to our Hodgepodge Mistress, Joyce Daley for another set of thought provoking questions.

     Here in the Granite State we have snow. We also have wickes cold. So, regardless of what the calendar may say, winter has officially arrived. I thank God for our pellet stove and the wood pellet fuel to go with it. I thank God for our furnace and the oil to keep us, and by us I mean SWMBO, warm.

     Now, it's onto the Hodgepodge...

1. Are you more task oriented or people oriented? Elaborate.

     I am task oriented in that I like to get tasks done when I finally get around to doing them. I do tend to procrastinate. People, on the other hand, are more important to me than completing tasks. Tasks will always be there. People may not be. 

2. December 15 is National Wear Your Pearls Day...do you own/wear pearls? If you're a man answering the question, does your sweetheart own or wear pearls? Everyone share a 'pearl of wisdom' with us here today.

     I don't have or wear pearls. I can't remember my beloved having or wearing pearls. My pearl of wisdom is " Use things and cherish people. Do not use people and cherish things."

3. Speaking of pearls...oysters? Are you a fan or not a fan? If you answered yes, tell us your favorite way to eat oysters? If you said no, be honest-have you ever tried one or does just the idea of eating an oyster make you gag a little?

     I am not a fan of oysters. I have tried them before. They look disgusting but they don't taste too bad if you consume them with crackers and hot sauce.

4. Time Magazine has named President-elect Donald Trump Person of the Year. Let's take presidents and presidential candidates out of the mix for a minute. If a political figure had not been chosen who would you name Man or Woman of the Year for 2016?

     I would name the masses of people who compose the silent majority who turned the political world on it's head as the persons of the year. None of the professional political operatives or the professional pollsters got it right. The American people spoke loudly and clearly and shook the world and proving once again that our system is still vibrant and more importantly, still works.

 

5. The Pantone Color of the Year for 2017 has been announced, and it's a vibrant green aptly named-greenery. Your thoughts? Is this a color currently in your home or wardrobe? Will you add something in this shade for the new year? Click here to see the color.

     I am sorry to report that color and fashion have no meaning for me. When it comes to color give me the primary colors and let it go at that.

6. Today I've had too much________________________.

     Self criticism. I tend to be my harshest critic. I'm sure I'm not as bad as the voices and thoughts in my head seem to indicate. I am reminded that we are called to love our neighbor as ourselves. We, and by we I mean I,  forget that we are to love ourselves. 

7. Share a favorite lyric from a favorite Christmas carol.

     "Hark! The herald angels sing. Glory to the new born King. Peace on earth and mercy mild. God and sinners reconciled."  The Creator, Almighty God of the universe wants to be reconciled with a sinner like me. Hallelujah! That thought is amazing to me.

 

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

     There's a saying "You don't know what you have until it's gone." That is often true of some of the things in your life. It is certainly true of the people in your life. This truth was brought home to me again this week.

     Another truth that I was reminded of this week is that as Christians we don't say "Goodbye" to our loved ones when they pass away. We say "Til we meet again in Heaven." 

     This week our church family said "Til we meet again" to a dear man who has shaken off his mortal coil and has graduated to glory. This man has served our Lord and His church for over 50 years. He had a gruff exterior but his heart was extra large and pure gold. He loved people and he loved doing things for them. He lived an exemplary life and he will be sorely missed.  

     So my random thought today is cherish the people in your life while they are still with you. Tell them that you love them and that you appreciate their presence in your life now. Don't wait until they leave your life to express your appreciation. 

     May God bless you this week.

 

BACK TO SCHOOL ALREADY HODGEPODGE!

     There are a number of school districts in the Granite State that have begun their school year. Traditionally, the school year did not start until after Labor Day. Therefore, Summer has come all too soon to a screeching halt for some. 
     Today being Wednesday means that it is time for another hodgepodge of questions. Thank you Joyce for another series of questions. 

1. It's National Waffle Day (August 24th)...what decision are you currently 'waffling over'? (or share one you've recently 'waffled over')

     I generally don't waffle. I look at the available facts and decide on the best course of action given the information at my disposal. I will make adjustments as necessary if new information comes to light but I don't waffle.

2. It's the middle of August, but I'm already seeing lots of autumn-related posts. Do you think we rush the seasons? If so, does that bother you? I saw (here) an end of summer bucket list that included-

make s'mores, read a new (or favorite) book in the park, eat something delicious and bad for you at a state fair, be a tourist for the day, have a pot luck picnic, book a last minute summer getaway, relax by or in the pool, take a hike to watch the sunset, have a day on the lake, try a new summer recipe

Which activities on the list might you squeeze in before summer officially comes to a close? 

     I think as a general observation we tend to rush through our lives. When we're kids we can't wait to grow up. When we grow up we can't wait to finish school. When we finish school we can't wait to start a family. When we start a family we can't wait until our kids are grown and beginning families of their own, etc. We often fail to stop and relish the seasons of our particular lives. We do the same thing about the meteorological seasons. Back in the 1960's the musical group The Grass Roots sang a song entitled "Let's Live for Today!" The Bible urges us to live today and to not worry about tomorrow. Good advice!
     As for the end of Summer bucket list, I don't have one.

3. Your favorite summertime 'art' found in nature?

     My favorite Summertime art are the panoramic views found in the Granite State. They are spectacular and shout out the magnificent variety that our Creator has made. God has mad skills!

4. Stephen R. Covey is quoted as saying 'We judge ourselves by our intentions, and others by their actions.' Agree or no? Do you define yourself based on your intentions, your actions, or something else? 

     I think there is some truth to this statement. I believe the reason we do that is because we often cannot and do not know "intentions." Weary to reverse engineer ones intentions from their actions. To come to know intentions we would have to possess the ability to read someone else's mind. However, we certainly know our own mind and therefore our own intentions. Therefore our actions are always in line with our intentions. The consequences of our actions may not be, but our actions always are.

5. Are you useful in a crisis? Elaborate. 

     I am useful in a crisis. I have spent the better part of my adult life bringing order to disorder as a police officer. I have been trained and have experience working in crisis environments. 

6. What's been your go-to dish this summer? Is it something you'll continue making as the seasons change?

     SWMBO and I love a nice garden salad. We will continue making this dish year round. Another favorite dish is Chinese Pie (AKA Shepherds Pie).

7. Adult coloring books are a thing now. Have you jumped on the bandwagon? If not is this something you think you might enjoy?

     SWMBO and I have both jumped onto the bandwagon. There are days when you just can't "adult" and so you climb into your tent fort and color.

8.  Insert your own random thought here. 

     Have you been watching the coverage of the floods in Louisiana? While watching  news report I wondered if most people are good decent people or are most people evil malicious people. 
     My theory is that most people are good decent people. Just look at the community affected by the floods. People are helping each other as they are able. Skin color or political affiliation have no relevance. People are stepping up to ease suffering and to begin the process of rebuilding. This reaction to massive suffering is not unique to Louisiana. You see it repeated worldwide.
     I suspect that the reason why we think that there are more evil malicious people than good decent people is that the evil malicious people get most of the press coverage. Evil sells papers, good does not. 
     Do your think that my theory is correct? Have a great Wednesday!

AFRICA HOT HODGEPODGE!

     It is Hump Day already! I can hardly believe it. Our Hodgepodge Mistress, Joyce Daley, has come up with another series of interesting questions. Pop on over to her blog page, "From This Side of the Pond," and follow the simple directions on how to participate and join in on the fun. You will meet amazing people who also participate. Now onto the Hodgepodge...

1. How did you welcome the month of July, and tell us one fun thing you did to celebrate the 4th. (or the weekend for any non-USA residents playing along today)

     My beloved SWMBO and I began the Month of July with the celebration of 44 years of wedded bliss together. We are truly blessed! We then decided to get Summer colds. I got over mine quickly. SWMBO is still fighting hers due to her compromised immune system. To celebrate Independence Day, we went food shopping and grilled some animal flesh in the spirit of the Holiday.

2. Right now..what's your favorite red thing? white thing? blue thing? 

     My favorite red things are the questions of this Hodgepodge. My favorite blue things are the answers. My favorite white thing is the page upon which they are written.

3. Wave the white flag, raise a red flag, fly your freak flag...which 'flag' have you flown most recently? Explain. 

     I never surrender so the white flag is out. As hot as it is today, a red flag of warning might be appropriate. No, I'm gonna let my freak flag fly as I often do! Why? I'm glad that you asked. When people think you're crazy you have a wider latitude of what you can get away with.

4. According to Cond Nast Traveler these are the seven best places to visit in July-

a boat safari in Botswanna's Okavango Delta, Riviera Maya Mexico (it's whale shark season and apparently you can swim with them), Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, Pamploma Spain, St. Petersburg Russia, the Fuji Rock Festival at Mount Naeba Japan, the Salzburg Festival in Salzburg Austria

If time and money weren't factors would you want to see any/all of these? Which would you most like to see and why? 

     With the exception of Mexico and Russia I would go for doing the rest, if time and money were not factors. I believe that for a  retired American police officer, Mexico and Russia would not be welcoming and may be downright dangerous, so no thank you. There are plenty of other places, safer places around the globe.

5. Grilled cheese, pimento cheese, or mac and cheese...your favorite from the cheesy treats listed? 

     Grilled cheese, please! I would like tomato, onions, pickles on my sandwich too if you please.

6. What makes you sweat? 

     In these "Africa Hot" temperatures, simply breathing makes me sweat. Standing in front of the congregation preaching a sermon or teaching a Bible Class also makes me sweat regardless of the ambient temperature.

7. Your favorite movie with a 'patriotic' theme of some sort?

     "13 Hours, the Men of Benghazi" is my new favorite. These brave warriors risked everything to protect and save their fellow citizens, many of whom did not want them around before the hostilities began.

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

     I often use the Random Thought to vent my spleen over some travesty from government, politics, etc. Today I will not. Today I pay tribute to my fellow citizens who are wearing, or have worn, a uniform in service to "We the People." Whether that uniform be from one of the military services or if it be a police, fire or EMS uniform, I pay honor to you...and you know who you are! 
    Throughout our history, we as a nation have been blessed by God with special men and women who sacrificially give of themselves to protect us from those who would do us harm or to execute violence on our behalf upon those who have done us harm. They ask nothing in return and simply see it as their duty. They act out of gratitude for the blessings of liberty that this nation affords them. I say, THANK GOD FOR THEM ALL! 

A SNOWY SPRING HODGEPODGE!

     Have you ever wondered if grocery stores are in cahoots with tv weathermen? It seems to me that weathermen over hype a weather event so that people panic and stock up on food provisions to get them through. Maybe I'm being cynically paranoid.
     Today is Wednesday Hodgepodge so here is this weeks offering of Joyce Daley's Wednesday Hodgepodge.

1. Has spring sprung in your little corner of the world? Other than the calendar how would I know? What's your favorite thing about spring?

     My favorite thing about Spring is that it isn't Winter! DIE! WINTER, DIE!

2. Besides the weather, what's put a spring in your step recently?

     My beautiful granddaughter turns 7 years old today. She and her younger sister were visiting us yesterday and played "Dolls" with their Granny, A.K.A. my beloved SWMBO. That puts a spring in my step!

3. How does Easter impact you?

     As a Christian, Easter is my independence day. Oh, it's not the bunnies and brightly colored eggs. It's the celebration of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The debt of sin has been taken away! The sting of death has been removed! The love of God was profoundly demonstrated to the entirety of humanity. Hallelujah! I say again, Hallelujah! That's how Easter impacts me.

4. I saw this somewhere on Facebook and thought it would make a fun Hodgepodge question. Which of the following would you find most disappointing...

a just stuffed taco shell breaking open and spilling out before you take the first bite? dropping a just-purchased Starbucks/Dunkin Donuts coffee? opening the peanut butter jar and finding it empty? upending onto the sidewalk a just-purchased ice cream cone? a burnt bagel popping up in your toaster when you're rushing breakfast? or cutting into an avocado and finding out it's rotten? 

     I'm going with the coffee thing. I remember a morning where I stopped by my local Dunkin Donuts and purchased a large regular hot coffee. I drove the short distance to my home. I placed the coffee down so I could remove my coat. As I removed my coat, my hand knocked the coffee down the stairs. I was profoundly disappointed! 

5. What's something held together with tape at your house? Or a paper clip? Or a wing and a prayer?

     We have a venetian blind in one of our windows. Some of the slats broke somehow and are now held together by scotch tape. As for me, I am held together on a wing and a prayer and sometimes, on rare occasions, by two fingers of scotch...neat!

6. Do you feel underappreciated? In what way?

     Not at all!

7. What's something you'd build if you knew how?

     I've got nothing!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

     Last week the weather prognosticators warned us of an impending nor'easter that was due to hit us in the Granite State sometime Sunday night into Monday. They said depending on the track of the storm we could see lots or snow or nothing at all. Well, we got about four inches of the white stuff. Not the snow-magedon that was implied.
     The nice thing about it is that by the time the Sun went down on Monday, most of the snow had melted and was gone. 
     So we survived another snow storm. Also, NH experienced a 2.9 magnitude earthquake centered northwest of our capitol city of Concord. We will rebuild! 

GROUND HOG DAY AFTERMATH HODGEPODGE!

     Yesterday the prognosticating rodent from Pennsylvania made his prediction with respect to the remaining length of the 2015/2016 winter season. He predicts that there is going to be an early Spring. I don't believe him because rodents are inherently unreliable. What is reliable is Wednesday bringing us another Hodgepodge. And so, enjoy the Hodgepodge!

1. Describe love using all five senses.

     This is really a tough question! My answer to this question flows from my beloved SWMBO. I feel her gentle touch as we sit together in church. I smell the sweet fragrance of her perfume. I see how her face lights up when she see's me approaching. I taste the flavored lip balm on her lips and I hear her sweet voice calling my name to find something that she misplaced.

2. February is Canned Food Month. What's your favorite food that comes straight from a can?

     I like some of the Chef Boyardee stuff. I like some of the Progresso soups. I like canned vegetables. 

3. A principal in a UK school recently sent home a letter to parents requesting they (the parents!) dress appropriately when escorting their children to/from school (basically saying please don't wear your pajamas) You can read the letter here. It's gotten a lot of publicity, both positive and negative. Your thoughts? And do/did you ever make the school run (or hit Starbucks, Walmart, etc) in your pjs?

     I don't really care what people are wearing in the confines of their cars while dropping kids off at school so long as they're covered. As for me, I would never leave the house without being properly dressed...unless it's in an ambulance and in that case I really wouldn't have a choice because I'd most likely be unconscious.

4. Crew neck, V-neck, turtleneck, scoop neck...which is most prevalent in your wardrobe?

     I'm a crew neck guy! 

5. I read here recently a list of four things to avoid so you wake up happier. They were late night snacks, hitting the snooze button, social media just before bed/upon waking, checking emails. 

Are you guilty of any of these behaviors? Which on that list do you need to work harder at avoiding?

      I am guilty of all of them at one time or another. Night snacks is my Kryptonite.

6. Share something you remember about a house you lived in as a child? Of all the homes you lived in as a child, which did you love best? 

     The house I grew up in was built in the late 1800's. My siblings and I were convinced that the place was haunted, especially the cellar. We experienced a number of events that could only be described as paranormal and in some cases frightening. Ironically of the places I lived, that house is my favorite. 

7.Your favorite movie based on a true story? 

     I love historical movies. "Apollo 13" is one of my favorites. I also like "42" the story of Jackie Robinson.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.

     Another answer to Question #1 is God. God is love! 1 Corinthians 13 describes pure love and that too is God. I am able to love others because God first showed me how to love. May you all experience the true love of God in your lives.

WINTER HAS ARRIVED HODGEPODGE

     We have enterred a period where our daily high temperature stays below 30 and our lows are in the single digit. In short, it is freakin' cold and winter is here in earnest. We also have had a couple of minor snow falls, three inches or less. I am happy with snow not being as prolific as it was last winter. Other less enlightened types, AKA Snow Bunnies, are not as happy as the rest of us. 
     Today is Wednesday which, as you all know, means it's time for another Wednesday Hodgepodge. I hope that you enjoy this week's edition!

1.  Speaking of skating...when did you last 'skate on thin ice', 'skate over the details', 'encounter a cheapskate', or just plain skate?

     I often skate on thin ice. Most people have something that prevents them from giving voice to some of the things that they are thinking. I don't have one of those so I often say things that causes my beloved SWMBO to roll her eyes and to receive looks of sympathy from other people. My being 6'4" tall and 300 lbs I don't get punched in the mouth a lot, despite the fact that it is sometimes well deserved.

2. What would you say is the biggest problem of people your age?

     By the time that we unserstand a little something about how to live life,. .  our bodies, and often our minds, are incapable of taking advantage of our knowledge. Perhaps, that is another indicator of the wisdom of God.

3. What's your favorite accessory? Is it something you wear every day, often, or only on special occasions?

     I sometimes carry a Smith & Wesson revolver concealed upon my person from time to time.  I don't carry it every day, just when the spirit moves me. I am a firm believer that I am primarily responsible for defense of my family and myself.

4. January 20th is National Cheese Lover's Day. Are you a lover of cheese? What's your favorite dish made with cheese? Last thing you ate that contained some kind of cheese? 

     I am a cheese lover. I enjoy extra sharp cheddar cheese. My favorite dish with cheese in it is Lasagna.

5. What's something guaranteed to make you roll your eyes? 

     Listening to anything that comes out of the mouth of our President and/or his former Secretary of State.

6. Your favorite book series? 

     My favorite book series is anything by Tom Clancy. Since Tom has gone on to his eternal reward, I like Vince Flynn. Also, Vince has shaken off his mortal coil. My next choice is Brad Thor.

7. Why did you choose your profession? 

     I developed a profound appreciation for the U.S. Constitution and the freedoms that it guarantee's for us and our progeny. Spending my life defending that document, that idea, from all enemies foreign and domestic, seemed like a noble way to serve my community and support my family in the process. I did not get wealthy but I am very rich.

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

     I have been seeing a lot of stories in the news media where a child has been beaten to the point of death, or serious bodily injury. The children were younger than five years old in many instances and the offense for which they were beaten?  They had the temerity to act like children...they cried! 
     I cannot fathom what is wrong with these people who would injure a child in this way or to that extent. There is a special place in hell for such people! I am certain that God's heart is broken at the suffering of these innocents. I wish I knew an answer as to how to stop it. My inclination is to visit a similar beating upon the abusers but I fear someone has already beaten me to it while they were young.
     May God have mercy on these children!

HAPPY FRICKIN' NEW YEAR HODGEPODGE!

     How's the New Year going for you so far? Five days into it, for me it's "so far so good." I didn't make any resolutions this year, however, I am thinking about goals or changes I want/need to make to improve my life and myself. Thanks again to Joyce Daley for this edition of the Wednesday Hodgepodge. One has to wonder where she gets all these questions every week. Her questions are often akin to a conversation with a neighbor standing at the fence sharing a cup of coffee. So grab a cup of your favorite beverage, make yourself comfortable and enjoy!

1. Are you ready for new? Is 2016 likely to be very different than 2015? Do you want it to be?

     Not really. I have a large RC (Resistance to Change) factor. So I am more comfortable with the status quo. 

2. January 6th is National Technology Day. Currently, what is your single biggest struggle or frustration when it comes to technology?

     I struggle to master all the features of my new iPhone 6s. SWMBO and I upgraded our cellphones last November. She is much more gadget savvy than I am. It is amazing what modern smart phones are capable of. 

3. It's that time again...time for Lake Superior University to present a list of words (or phrases) they'd like to see banished (for over-use, mis-use, and general uselessness) in 2016. You can read more about the decision making process here, but this year's top vote getters are-

So (at the start of every single sentence), conversation (as in hotly debated topics where we're invited to 'join the conversation'), problematic, stakeholder, price point, secret sauce, break the Internet, walk it back, presser, manspreading (common in larger cities where some men take up the entire bus or train seat by sitting wide), vape, giving me life (refers to anything that may excite a person or make them laugh), and physicality

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why? Is there a word not on the list you'd like to add?

     The thing about language is that it tends to change over time. A couple of examples that come to mind is Classical Greek morphing into koine (common) Greek of the first century. Classic Parisian French morphing into Canadian French, etc.  The word "gay" being co-opted from meaning light, joyful or happy to meaning homosexual or lesbian. So I don't wish to see any words banished from use for any reason. I am unalterably opposed to political correctness or any abridgement of our right to free speech. I don't have any words that I would like to add to the list.

4. Share one of your current health related goals.

     I have two, lowering my blood sugar and reducing my weight.

5. Let's talk fifty shades of gray. As in the color. Gray is currently a popular color in home decor, paint, wardrobes, hair, wedding party attire, and more. Are you a fan? Do you have the color in some variation in your home or wardrobe?  Gray hair, the old gray mare, gray matter, gray area...which gray idiom can you most relate to right now?

     I'm okay with gray. My gray right now is Gray Hair. 

6. Certain foods are considered 'lucky' if eaten on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day. Cooked greens to bring economic fortune, black-eyed peas or lentils also symbolize money, pork which symbolizes progress, fish for good luck, and if you're in Spain 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. Did you eat any lucky foods on the first day of the year? Is that a tradition in your home? Of the foods listed, which most appeals to you?

     SWMBO and I don't have a lucky food. Over the Christmas and New Year holidays we do traditionally enjoy my meat stuffing, egg nog and various pastry items.

7. What's the single biggest time waster in your life and what, if anything, will you do about it this year?

     I guess zoning out in front of the television is my biggest time waster. To deal with this waste of time I hope to watch less television and do something else, that is, replace watching TV with some other more productive activity.

8.  Insert your own random thought here.
     SWMBO's cancer continues to be in remission, thank God. We are going for our four month follow up with the transplant director on Thursday. SWMBO's stem cells were harvested a couple of years ago and frozen. Our wish is that they remain frozen and it doesn't ever become necessary for the doctor to give them back to her. We thank everyone for your continued support and prayers.  
     Becke the Wonder Dog had a thorough check up by her Vet after her last siezure episode. According to the Vet none of the tests showed anything remarkable. Her blood work is fine. Her urine test is normal and her heart is beating strong. The Vet is unable to determine the cause of the siezure. So we continue to spoil her as she deserves to be.
     Happy New Year everyone!
   

A NINE DAYS 'TIL CHRISTMAS HODGEPODGE!

     Welcome to the week before Christmas Wednesday Hodgepodge. It astounds me that another year has come and is almost gone already. I must be getting old! Thank you Joyce for these weekly writing prompts. Many are challenging. Others are just fun and still others are thought provoking and often calls to mind wonderful memories. I hope that you enjoy this week's edition.

1. What's your biggest 'first world' problem?

     In my humble opinion our biggest "first world" problem is "National Security." It takes two forms. First, there is an entity who is at war with the United States. That entity, Radical Islam, is intent on bringing death and mayhem to our shores. Our leaders have essentially said "We're not playing, our war is over." It does not matter if we decide not to effectively engage the enemy, the enemy is going to engage us, and sooner rather than later.
     The second form is our unsecured borders. Our government, whether run by republicans or democrats, have failed to secure our borders and control who is admitted into our country. Every civilized country on the planet secures its borders and yet, we seem to be afraid of offending people if we secure our borders and really vet who gets in.

2.  Each year Time Magazine names a 'Person of the Year', someone who has 'for better or worse...done the most to influence the events of the year.' It was recently announced they've named Angela Merkel Person of the Year for 2015. You can read more about this year's selection here. Your thoughts? If you were in charge, who would you declare Person of the Year? 

     I suppose that it's an interesting exercise to try to come up with who had the greatest impact on events during the year that is about to end. In my view it is largely subjective and ultimately meaningless. Angela Merkel is as good a choice as anyone. Other candidates might be Pope Francis, or Vladimir Putin, Fed Chairman Janet Yellen, Kim Kardashian, and on and on and on ad nauseum.

3. Do you have a nativity set in your home? If so share it's history and how you display the pieces.

     We do have a nativity set in our home. It has been a part of our Christmas decor for the better part of 40 years. It's a simple cardboard manger with the usual players. Over the years we have lost the original cast and pressed ornaments (camel) and one or more of the Magi. We display it where ever there is space to accommodate it.

4.  Do you make an extra effort to give back in some way during the holiday season? How do you encourage those who need encouragement this time of year?

     I try to make an effort to give back year round and not just at Christmas. I encourage people appropriate to the situation at hand. I empathize, offer suggestions and sometimes I'm just there holding their hand or being silently present.

5. Who is your favorite person to shop for? Why?

     I don't have a favorite person to shop for because I don't particularly like shopping.

6. What's the last delicious thing you ate?

     At a recent Christmas Party there was a particular pie that had cream, caramel, nuts, and other stuff that was absolutely delicious!

7. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is________________.

     Singing Christmas Carols! Songs and music have a special power to lift the soul and lighten the heart.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

     There have been a couple of troubling trends here in the Granite State. The NH State Police have made several arrests of people who were driving in excess of a 100 miles per hour. One "Rocket Scientist" was clocked driving 80 miles per hour a couple of hours after making bail on his getting arrested for driving in excess of 100 miles per hour. He said that he was angry at how much he had to pay to get his car out of the impound lot.
     Another trend has been people driving the wrong way on the interstate highway. One woman drove almost sixteen miles northbound in the southbound lane before NH State Troopers were able to stop her. Of course, significant alcohol consumption was involved...by the wrong way drivers, not the Troopers. 
     The surprising thing is that in all the incidents of excessive speed and wrong way driving, no one was killed. It has got to be Divine providence at work! 

30 DAYS OF GRATITUDE ATTITUDE HODGEPODGE!

     Here it is...November already. This year has flown by very quickly, or at least that is how it seems. This November, some people are listing one thing that they are grateful for on each day of the month. This being Day 4 of the month, today I am grateful for the Wednesday Hodgepodge. Though this weekly exercise I have vicariously met some remarkable people. I enjoy learning about other people and their lives, beliefs, preferences and so forth.
Please join in on the fun!

1. Besides Thanksgiving, something you're looking forward to on your November calendar?

     Nothing comes to mind!

2.  If I gave you a thank you card right now who would you send it to and why?

     I would send it to an elderly couple in our the church. They are usually the first to step up to cook a meal for a fellowship, or man the kitchen at the churches summer camp for kids, and every other service project. They are exemplary people and always go the extra mile of service.

3. Of the breads listed, which one's your favorite...bagel, cinnamon, sourdough, garlic, banana, biscuit, pita, Naan, or plain old fashioned white bread?

     I love a banana bread, especially if it has nuts in it. I also enjoy a good garlic bread. I like the tase of garlic.

4. What's something you have in abundance? Is that a good thing?

     I have too much fat and too much sugar in my system. It is definitely not a good thing. I am taking steps to address both situations. Prayers for success are appreciated.

5. November 5th is National Love Your Red Hair Day. Are there any redheads in your family? Who's your favorite redhead?

     My favorite red head was Red Skelton. He was one of the funniest men who has ever lived and he worked clean. I don't think I have a favorite red head who is currently alive.

6.  The travel website Busbud recently calculated the most Instagrammed spot in every state. Go here to see what made the list where you live. Are you happy with your state's #1? If not what do you think should be the most photographed spot in your state? Have you snapped a photo there? If you live outside the USA answer as it relates to your state, city or province.

     The White Mountain National Forest, especially in the fall, is a terrific choice. As a Granite Stater I'm okay with this choice.

7. I'm going to try to have something related to gratitude in this spot each week during the month of November. Here's this week's question-

     

What's something you've learned about yourself this year that you're grateful for?

     I recently took a "Spiritually Gifted" test to determine what my God-given spiritual gifts are. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that given my gifts I am where I belong and I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing. I am grateful for that.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

     I am still a bit disillusioned with out political leaders. It seems to me that our elected officials are more devoted to serving the interests of their particualr party than they are in serving the interests of the American people. They pay lip service to serving the American people. I used to be that each party had different views on how to address the problems we have. They were Americans first and loyal party members next.
     It is almost as if they don't care about solving the problems that plaque us. They seem more interested in exploiting them for their political and personal gain. I guess that I am just getting too cynical in my old age. That doesn't mean that I'm wrong. God bless America...please!

IDES OF OCTOBER HODGEPODGE!

       It is the middle of October, the ides of October. It is also Wednesday which means it is time for another exercise in self reflection, remembering the past, opining on current events and thoughtful contemplation. Our host, Joyce, does a remarkable job coming up with these questions every week. I urge you to join in on the fun. Go to Joyce's blog page to learn how. Enjoy this week's edition of the Wednesday Hodgepodge.
     

1. What's something that has recently 'tried your patience'?

     I went to the "Vet" for a routine follow up exam and to get some prescriptions renewed. I went to the grocery store to do our food shopping. I stopped by the pharmacy to pick up my prescription. The doctor's office sent in the wrong prescription. I completed the food shooping and proceeded to the check out. My purchases were rung up and bagged when I discovered that I did not have our debit card. AAARGH! That tried my patience!

2. Do you think patience comes to us naturally or is it something you have to learn as you grow? On a scale of 1-10 generally how patient are you? (1=I blow up at the drop of a hat and 10=I've got all the time in the world).

     I believe that patience is learned. Some people have the ability to learn patience better than others, but it is learned. On the scale of 1-10 I fall around 7, I think. Some days I drop to around 4. I generally roll with the punches despite my level of aggravation.

3. Share about a time when you felt like you could fly. Or a time you wished you could fly. Or a time you felt like you were flying.

     I enjoy powered flight. I once was able to pilot a Cessna with the aircraft's owner seated beside me. A friend from church owned his own Cessna 172 and graciously offered to take a couple of us up for a flight. It was exhillerating! When I was in the Air Force, I had an opportunity to fly a jet simulator. That is the ultimate video game! I completely enjoyed both experiences.

4. Your favorite song with the word fly in the title or lyrics, or your favorite song that relates to flying in some way?

     A couple of songs immediately come to mind. "Fly Like an Eagle" by the Steve Miller Band and "Gonna Fly Now" (The Theme from Rocky). A favorite church song is "Fly Away."

5. What's in your fall picnic basket and where are we picnicking in your neck of the woods this time of year?

     In my picnic basket is a thermos filed with hot apple cider. I also have a roast beef sub, chips, extra sharp cheddar cheeze and a couple of Cortland apples. I am picnicking at the top of one of the several mountains enjoying the colorful foliage.

6.  Carpentry, electrical, plumbing, landscaping...which skill would you most like to possess and how would you put that skill to use today?

     I'd love to be competent at carpentry, electrical and plumbing. I am not a fan of landscaping. I would use my skills to effect repairs and upgrades in my house. I would also use my skills to help others with repairs at their residence.

7. What's something you think is too expensive to justify buying lately?

     The deli in our grocery store has a chicken salad that is wonderful. The price of this chicken salad has risen to almost $10.00 per pound. That is too expensive for my tastes...pun intended.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

     In the Granite State we are experience the annual invasion of the "Leaf Peepers." This is both good and bad. It is good because many of the tourism related businesses profit from the influx of people and their dollars. It is bad because the people who are driving the leaf peepers are also leaf peeping while driving. Many of these leaf peeper drivers come from the state due south from NH. Their driving skills, under the best of circumstances, draw a huge vacuum, or put simply...SUCK! Add the added distraction of leaf peeping and these drivers become more of a hazard than they usually are.
     So if you have occasion to visit the Granite State to enjoy our world reknowned foliage, please drive carefully and watch out for those aforementioned hazardous leaf peeping drivers!