How about a little Random This 'N That sort of post to clear out some of my Thought Nerfuls that have been bouncing around my brain? I need a sort of Cerebral Sweep, and I don't want to fuss about format much, either. Here we go.
Stuff I Meant To Mention Awhile Back
1. I won the Fantasy Basketball Championship for our league back in...March? I beat out 9 men for the coveted virtual trophy and bragging rights. I won't bore you with the details, but I do want to mention that I was without my core of stars for most of the playoffs, and I had to pull off miracles.
2. Zydrunas's DNA results came back and he is a mix of pit bull and American bully breeds. No boxer in there at all, which surprised me. He could not care less about this info, and honestly, either could we.
The Politics
1. I have not missed a January 6 Hearing yet, and I watch with a mix of astonishment, smug validation, admiration, and frustration. And General Outrage. Liz Cheney and I have zero in common politically, and I can't see myself championing her candidacy for much of anything, but she is laying it down in these hearings. This Committee is outstanding in its preparation, presentation, and its command of the facts in evidence. The DOJ had better come through.
2. SCOTUS is breathtaking in its corruption. The ruling overturning Roe v Wade is a travesty; Alito's writings are almost insane. The fact that Clarence Thomas is still adjudicating matters brought before the court while his wife is implicated in the Insurrection taints any and all decisions (or even debates) he is involved in. A major correction is needed, and what shape that takes (expansion to match the number of federal circuit courts or losing tainted judges appointed by a seditionist president) should be decided soon.
3. Young Sorta-Democratic voters need to stop getting stuck on student debt forgiveness and understand that there are other critical issues facing them and their future. Or--failing that--they need to ask themselves, "Who is more likely to ever forgive my debt at any time, a Democrat or a republican?" and vote with that in mind. Duh.
Life In General
1. I am feeding a blue jay with raw peanuts in the shell on my front porch at home. Every morning, early, I leave them in a little ceramic dish on the table and watch as it flies in and grabs one. If the windows are open, I talk to it quietly. (I've even named it, Sassy.) My next move is to be out there when it comes to feed, sitting still and quiet. I am working up to having it eat from my hand.
2. Rick is on vacation this week, so we are spending a great deal of it at the lake. Jared and Sam came down for boating and fireworks and brought Zydrunas. I spent most of the hour-long show lying on top of the dog, who was trembling with terror. Eventually, as I spoke to him and he felt my weight keeping him safe, he was able to relax and feel better.
3. I planted dill from seed that I harvested from my dill last year. It did not come up. I have dill, however, all over the place where I did not plant it. It is everywhere except in my herb garden, where I planted it. Regardless, I have a lot of dill, so Yay! I've already made quarts and quarts of pickles.
4. I was reading names of 2022 graduates, and I love this one: Mysterious Destiny. Obviously, I won't give the student's last name, but how great of a name is that? And how very, very true.
Talk to me of Things You Forgot To Mention, The Politics, or Life In General in Comments. And wouldn't you agree that Mysterious Destiny is aptly named? From the moment we take our first breaths in the world, little about our journeys here can be known. How different we all thought our lives would be right now, even five years ago! Mysterious Destiny's mother is a poet and a prophet.
Fantasy Basketball Championship – I love that you not only won, but beat out all the men playing.
ReplyDeleteThe Jan. 6th Hearings, a.k.a. Insurrection Gate— Agree 100% with your analysis. I have watched them all, too, and have been spellbound every time. I thought they would be tedious and boring, but the committee really has produced outstanding presentations, and cleverly woven a web of all the treachery and deceit by the repugnicants by using key witnesses from within their own party. Of course, Voldemort’s fans are in denial of everything, and most don’t even watch, I’m sure, but the explicit testimony from stalwarts in the party and their courage in coming forth to call it what it was is encouraging. So, yes, the DOJ had better come down with some serious indictments. It is truly frightening how very close we were to having democracy collapse.
SCOTUS— Clarence needs to get the boot. He is clearly inciting the other shameless ones who are destroying major civil rights at such an alarming pace. The next fearful outcome will be the North Carolina case on gerrymandering which is going to *really* screw what’s left of voting rights in many states. *sigh*
Birds— I bet you *do* get that blue jay to feed from your hand. I wonder if it misses you when you’re at the lake, lol.
Dill— I was thinking of planting some herbs in a planter on our balcony this spring, but the weather has been so scorchingly hot, and the balcony gets the afternoon sun. We have now had 3 straight weeks of temps from 100-105. If I have to go foraging for food, I make sure it’s before 9 in the morning when it is still only about 85 degrees.
Mysterious Destiny— That is indeed a wonderful name. Meanwhile, I am getting fed up with girls being named ‘princess.’ As if there aren’t enough princess-minded people walking around like they own the planet…
Life in General at Casa Ortiz has been fairly calm recently, and I am good with that. Mr. O. and I have been doing a purge of cleaning out junk from top to bottom in our condo. It’s amazing how getting rid of physical clutter clears your brain and gives one a sense of inner peace. Much needed in these turbulent times we are navigating.
Ortizzle--Hello! Seeing you here is lovely, indeed.
DeleteI think more repubs are watching than will admit it, especially since so many are being implicated and the net is growing wider. Self-preservation is a powerful thing.
I will never stop blaming Disney for the Princessification of generations of girls/women. It's entirely their fault. They finally got with it and started making their animated female leads more powerful and self-reliant, but they still refer to them collectively as Disney Princesses. And I'm astonished at the number of women in their twenties and thirties who have no idea how to do laundry, cook something simple for themselves, or do any other basic lifeskill task. My sons were doing all of that by the time they were ten. Where were these kids' parents?
Your herbs would be fine on a hot balcony as long as you planted them in something other than plastic and kept them watered well. They love sun. I'm sorry for your terrible TX heat. We keep getting hotter and more humid here; soon, we'll be exactly the same as TX since our politics and culture already are. Sigh.
I'm glad your life has been calm and--fingers crossed--injury- and malady-free. Keep purging and streamlining. I'm doing the same (we just did Rick's closets and dressers!) and it's liberating. XO
Mysterious Destiny is an amazing name! I wonder what they get called? Mysty? Destiny? Ree? I kind of need to know now.
ReplyDeleteI've been working during the hearings so I read recaps from all of my favorite news people on Instagram. I'm horrified and not even on iota surprised. I don't know if that's because I'm no longer surprisable, or if it's just that I have always known who these people are.
If you succeed with the blue jay you need to get Rick to videotape it (he can be your Internet Boyfriend for these purposes). That would be so amazing!
We're doing well in our little world, but my work life is experiencing some upheaval. We're losing another staff member (it is HARD for local government to compete with the private sector when it comes to pay), and I've applied for her job. I'm not sure I even want it, but I was encouraged, and maybe it's time for me to step out of my comfort zone. I can do my current job without even thinking most days. We shall see!
Bug--I wondered the same thing re: nicknames. So many possibilities.
DeleteRick listens to the hearings via YouTube on his work computer as much as possible. He is in his own office and can do that. Not sure what your situation is, but they are available on a variety of feeds.
Oh, believe me: if I get that blue jay to feed from my hand, I will film it myself if I have to. How exciting will that be?! I'm pretty jazzed already that it swoops down on my porch so close to my window and doesn't move when I talk to it.
Good luck with getting your new job, especially if it means a nice bump in pay for you. At this point, if it's not a bad job and it's still working in the same place, more money is a great incentive, especially now.
I have watched as much of the hearings as I could and my respect for Liz has grown. Like you'd I'd never vote for her but if she was elected I'd feel the country was at least in the hands of someone with morals and ethics and we have seen that in the Republican Party in a long time. From a few conversations I witnessed here I don't think the hearings are going to change any of the minds of Trump's supporters.
ReplyDeleteAs for the Supreme Court I'm thoroughyly disgusted with them and we're only seeing the beginnings of the changes that are coming up from the lower courts. The Republicans have done a great job of sowing the seeds to do away with gal marriage, birth control and the list goes on.
Someone here had a petition to sign to put Roe vs Wade on the ballot and in a room of twelve ten signed it--one who didn't was registered out of state and the other already signed one elsewhere. I have no trouble believing that petition drive will make its mark.
Jean--I have no doubt that Liz Cheney has ethics and morals. It's her staunch conservatism that I strenuously object to. She was in favor of the Roe v Wade reversal; she voted against the John Lewis Voting Rights Act; she would have no problem with things the way they are right now.
DeleteI agree with you 100% that this Court has more dastardly rulings to come. I fear that the worst will be giving total control of federal electors to the state, the precursor of which is what the Eastman memo outlined. republicans know that the only way they can ever win the presidency is by electoral college victories, never the popular vote, and even then, it's becoming more difficult. That's why this case is so frightening; it could truly end democracy itself.
As far as *45 supporters ever changing their minds--not even remotely a possibility for so many. They are in a cult and they are lost. They live in an alternate reality. These are people who went to Dallas and waited for JFK, Jr. to arrive and declare himself *45's new running mate. You cannot make this stuff up.
I am keeping up with the hearings via morning podcasts from MSMBC shows. They are incredibly well researched and the presentations are flawless, Still I fear it will not make any difference. It only makes a difference to those of us who care about the truth, not those who watch Fox News and think those lies are the truth. Will Fox news discuss the jobs report being better than anticipated? Will they discuss anything that is good that is happening in the Biden administration? Nope, it is a shit show. And I know because many of the homes I am in watch it while I am there and I am in disbelief most of the time but what I hear. As for that name it is brilliant, maybe I need a name change...... that one is so wonderful.
ReplyDeleteMeredith--The viewers of Faux "news" are lost, period. Very few of them will ever be redeemed or reclaimed from the cult that they have been swallowed by. It's hard to understand for those of us who are still Normal. The sick thing is that they are useful to those republicans who only want Power and are happy to get it in any way possible.
DeleteI'm very sorry that you're exposed to that while you're working, and sorrier still that there are children who are being raised in that environment. It's a constant reminder of what we are up against while we try hard to raise awareness and get out the vote.
Don't lose hope, Meredith. I know you're in such a turbulent time; hang in there. I think of you more often than you know and send you what Strength I can. XO
Thank you so much for thinking of me, turbulent times is an understatement if possible. And these horrible political times are not helping. Have fun at the lake, enjoy your beautiful time there
DeleteMeredith--I wish you could be here. If ever you can, please let me know.
DeleteCongratulations on your Fantasy Win. I wouldn't have a clue how to do that, but you my friend are a winner.
ReplyDeleteHow interesting about Zydrunas's gene pool; even though he nor you cared about the results one bit. I do love the fact that in this day and age we can get answers.
I've got to get on board with the peanuts and Blue Jays! You'll have to get some photos for us...I'm fascinated!
I know there are a million things I've forgotten to share, but not one will come to me right now. I'll get back to you at 3am. 😳
Suz--Thank you. It was hard fought, let me tell you. SO MANY of those men let me down, but I made roster moves and said The Hell With Them. In the end I was victorious!
DeleteYou make a great point about dog DNA. It's such a cool thing that we can know their breedstock even though we don't do a thing about it. In Z's case it merely confirmed what we already knew about his temperament and behaviours. It's also helpful for medical stuff.
I'll be vigilant with photos of my blue jay and hopefully be hand-feeding before the end of the summer. I'm so excited I can't stand it. (But I promise not to get stupid and make this the bird/blue jay blog.)
Other than the fact that I do not like the taste, or odour, of dill, I enjoyed your post. A lot.
ReplyDeleteI have been posting random happenings, the most planned of which was the removal of our well pump (again!), a change of 'sleeves' (sort of a filter), the reinsertion of said pump into the well and the insertion into our water system of manganese oxide in such quantities that the toilet looks as if something big bled into it overnight.
This is not good and means that I either hoard the dirty clothes or load them into my vehicle and drive half an hour to the nearest public coin wash. Not really keen on that. I bought the man some new underwear a few weeks ago and he is going to end up wearing it.
What is it with the male sex that they want to wear their old and battered clothing while the new stuff sits unused? This is an embarassment to a wife who wants a pressed and up-to-date husband. (Although one hopes that the underwear remains an unknown except by him and me.)
Wups. Co-opted your comments. Again.
Mary--Well, you did mention the dill. LOL.
DeleteRick just went through his dresser and closets (!!) with me while he is on vacation. I was thrilled; he, less so. But we finally got rid of at least ten pair of jeans and his old uniform shirts from two jobs ago. Hooray! We even tossed old teeshirts that had seen better (whiter) days. It was liberating for us both.
Is there an solution to your bloody, orangey water? Can't imagine having to live with that.
ps. I love your graphic.
ReplyDeleteMary--I love finding good illustrations for my posts. It takes time, but I've got plenty, usually. Thanks for noticing.
DeleteAnd not just because it was better than mine. ;-D The rusty water? Time plus, we devoutly hope, the new filter.
DeleteI have watched all of the hearings and I am so impressed with Bennie Thompson. He seems so calm and sensible and I love the way the committee is presenting their evidence in such a soothing, fact-filled fashion. No ranting or screaming just steady testimony that they repeat and confirm in a coherent manner.
ReplyDeleteSCOTUS has certainly been damaged by the conservatives that have taken it over. No respect for them at all.
If the Democrats can't be successful in 2022 and 2024, our country is up shit creek.
On a happier note, my daughter got her first dog (my first granddog!), an Australian shepherd named Sofie. A cute bundle of sweetness with one blue eye and one green eye! I met the puppy today and she likes me! (I gave her a treat!) ;)
Ellen--I agree with you about Mr. Thompson and the overall tenor and tone of the Committee. No histrionics and nothing but the facts, which are dramatic enough. The case is being made and presented (not interpreted, either) so even a fourth-grader could see and understand. Very, very clear and very compelling.
DeleteAustralian shepherds are a truly gorgeous breed. I'm acquainted with one here at the lake named Skye. That dog is constantly in motion. Congrats on having a granddog! Having treats is a surefire way to becoming a favourite, and I shamelessly employ it with all dogs in my orbit. Puppies are so much fun and so very sweet. Lucky you!
Congrats on your hard-won championship.
ReplyDeleteZydrunas's genetics would be interesting to know especially if they're not what you expected.
I defer to the birds (Bald Eagles) on occasion, overlooking their less attractive traits as vultures. Blue Jays are colorful, attractive but can be obnoxious. They do have redeeming qualities, so hope you're able to gain the bird's trust to feed from your hand.
More hearings tomorrow confirming much which many of us have been able to surmise from news reports at the time. What will the DOJ do? I don't even want to hazard a guess.
I'm reassessing my daily routine to see what change may bring. Rightsizing continues to be an erratic slow gradual process with unexpected road blocks.
Joared--Thank you. I was proud.
DeleteI miss looking in on the Big Bear eagles now that their young one has fledged and the nest is empty. That was always a nice stop for me as I browsed sites on the Internet each morning.
I have an obligation on Tuesday that may delay me from the hearings, but I hope to join them in progress. If I miss them entirely, I'll catch them on YouTube for certain. I hate to miss them, but this cannot be helped.
Rightsizing/downsizing should be a process if you have that benefit. Little by little, you can remove the things you simply have no more need of. It's kinder and less jarring that way. Some people never get that chance due to circumstances beyond their control. Of course, no one wants to dawdle enough so that no significant progress is being made.
Congratulations on your championship win! The hearings remind me of how folks turn to look at accidents, etc. (rubber-necking). It's horrible, but you cannot turn away. My Dad would talk of feeding chickadees out of his hand on the porch in Vermont. I hope Sassy takes a peanut from you (and that you get a picture of it).
ReplyDeleteVera--Thank you! Not to be immodest, but I deserved it.
DeleteI look at the hearings as my duty as a citizen. I remember the Iran Contra hearings, but they confused me, and I soon lost the ability to stick with them. Watergate took place when I was far too young.
Chickadees are such friendly, social little things. One used to follow Rick as he mowed the front yard! No idea why, but it was awfully funny. I'll keep everyone informed as to my progress with Sassy.
Congrats on your win. I know nothing about fantasy ball, but I think I make up for it in in person games attended.
ReplyDeleteLife in general here is all basketball. No games today. Atlanta was 5 days last week and downtown Chicago (so sort of local, but the price of parking, insane) earlier this week. I got to come up for air today and again tomorrow, so I was able to surprise my elderly parents with lunch (they knew about that) with a mystery guest - an old friend they hadn't seen in a while. That was sweet. It is off to Milwaukee for more basketball on Friday. I do enjoy it, but chaos is the name of the game at the moment.
I once substitute taught for a girl named Lovely Pearl. She went by a nickname, but that was her name on the attendance sheet. She was not too happy that I read it aloud. Ah, junior high. A mother's love was clear there though.
Ernie--Well, thanks. Fantasy sports is all about stats. I won't go into any more detail than that.
DeleteYour active life following travel sports with kids is busy, busy, busy! I can't even imagine it. I do know how much your kids will appreciate your presence and support throughout it all, and how much it will mean to them even later on. Being There is huge, always.
I wonder if Lovely Pearl's mother was a fan of The Scarlet Letter. Probably not; I'm not sure it has many aside from old ladies and English teachers. LOL
Oh my word .... my life .................beating my head against the insurance vs. doctor wall. Four hours + on the phone between yesterday and today. Somebody has got to figure out a way to make Medicare easier to navigate and build a website that is actually useful over at my insurance co.
ReplyDeleteThe government -----------------DESPICABLE JUDGES the next Minion movie. Life is hell being a mostly dem in a very republican town. Sometimes I swear I am the only person in this town that has ever crossed the border into the next community. Inbreeding runs deep.
Other things on my very last nerve ------------the crime rate among CHILDREN in Philadelphia, general whining ----------don't whine, get off your ass and vote! You want change? VOTE! How loudly can I say it ..............vote, vote, VOTE dammit! A sign in the town square is fine, just don't forget to VOTE.
Lawsy .................my doctor asked why my blood pressure is high. Check above ..............!
D.--It's ridiculous and disheartening how much power is wielded by insurance companies. It is they who determine our care, and that's criminal.
DeleteI understand how you feel--and empathize--being a blue dot in a red place. My town used to be true blue, but there has been an overturning of stones, so to speak, and suddenly, supporters of tfg have crawled out from under their rocks. Now that racism and WS are acceptable, these individuals have made themselves known. Ugh.
You echo my feelings exactly: Democrats and Truly Concerned People need to turn out the Vote. These dangerous people need to be voted out. It's not a time to look for the perfect candidate or make a selfish statement about your student debt or some other small and mean issue. It's time to vote for women's freedom, privacy, and healthcare; for children's safety in schools; for all people of color's dignity, civil rights, and right to vote; for the safety and security of funds we paid to Social Security and our rightful access to it; and, for a functioning, secure democracy free from corrupt influences within our own government. Check your registration, make a plan, and VOTE!
I have watched the hearings and am horrified all over again. I am one of the few, though, who just doesn't buy the Cheney/Kinzinger are gods bit. They voted w/Trump I think 98% of the time? Which, for most people, affected their daily lives. Cheney is a rabid right-wing Conservative; just listen to her views on overturning Roe. I give them credit for standing up for what's right but isn't that just what should have been done? Our system is such a mess, I can't get over it. The story of the little girl here in Ohio, and the Republicans take on her and how it was a "lie," is just maddening. I could literally go on and on, I'm so enraged. We must get out the vote.
ReplyDeleteElle--Agree 100%. Cheney and Kinziger only look good by comparison to a bad, pathetic lot. They are still republicans who stand for things I cannot abide and who voted against the Lewis Voting Rights Act and more. They don't really believe in a United States of America, just a loose confederation of states with no federal statutes that codify any rights beyond the Constitution.
DeleteI share your outrage. I am putting mine to work to get out the vote via a few organizations as well as making phone calls to representatives and senators, signing petitions, and writing letters. Donating to candidates is also important, even small amounts--they all add up. Here in Ohio, having two Democratic senators will be huge. And having more real Democratic senators will be critical to our successes.
Stay in the fight, Elle.