Birthday Blessings

September is here folks, the ninth month of the year and it's also the month I celebrate my yearly trip around the sun. Last month, we embarked on a 26-month alphabetical study on our journey to begin again.  This month, I'd like to explore blessings, the blessings we can find in our lives, and all those blessings we sometimes ignore or take for granted.  To do this, I'll open my heart and life to share the blessings I found that have become important and enriching.  Hopefully, mine will be an example for you, dear reader, to explore in your own life.  So, let's get started, jump in and enjoy the journey!  

The blessing of my Boise life is better than I would have ever dreamed.  The heat of the summer is finally behind us, but I am one who enjoys the sizzling summer days.  I will admit however, fall is starting to sound like a great idea.  Boise is hot, much hotter than I would have imagined but I've got a great tan and my garden thrived for another season.  My little boys are growing up.  The chewed molding has been repaired and there are no more wet spots on my floors or area rugs.  Their crate is dry in the morning and the frantic play times have decreased.  Puppyhood is becoming a thing of the past and honestly, I'm ready for some adult time.  The blessing these guys have given me is that they healed my heart after Bonnie's death and have allowed me to love again.  I miss her but the dudes are a huge source of pure enjoyment and pleasure.  I love them to death and I'm looking forward to a long life spent with them.  Doggie kisses and hugs are simply the best!

The blessing of getting old is profound and it is not for sissies, as my dad used to say.  I'll admit that he was correct.  Those little aches and pains that used to pass for a too hard of a workout are now regular occurrences.  The eye wrinkles are getting a bit more pronounced and that stubborn ten pounds does not want to go away.  I'm not one to complain and plastic surgery is not an option, so I'm embracing these changes as I move forward to the next stage of life.  These wrinkles are now my blessings as they show a life that was well lived but the journey is far from being over.

The blessing of good friends is one of which I'm fortunate to have.  I have a large circle of wonderful, like-minded people I seem to constantly interact with.  We can all laugh, tell a war story or two and we have all blended together well.  My social life is like a teenager's again, and I must keep my calendar up to date or I'll mix up my various activities.  My golf game has improved as I play every week.  Someday my handicap will be one of which I'm proud of but for right now, let's just say I'm improving.

My creative life has become a blessing and I have started allowing myself quality time to write and put together ideas to help other women walking my same path.  The blessing here is that I've found a wonderful new friend with whom I can share ideas and positive energy.  I look forward to many long years of friendship and support with my friend Colleen.

So, in a nutshell, just waking up every morning, looking at the yellow roses peeking in my bedroom window and thanking God for another day, is a blessing in itself.  The adage of stopping to smell the roses is profoundly true in my garden and my life.  We should all keep a gratitude journal and write down something we are grateful for daily.  Once we identify these things that we are grateful for, they become blessings and enrich our lives in so many ways. Therefore, my friends, count your blessings and enjoy life.  Make September your blessing month.  I'll be interested in what kind of blessings you all identify and please leave comments on this venue or Facebook.  I also post a link to this blog on Instagram, so blessing comments are welcome there as well. I'm excited to read what people share, there's a blessing in every situation. God's blessing to each and every one of my readers.  XXOO

May you be blessed with warmth in your home, love in your heart, peace in your soul and joy in your life. 

~ Irish Blessing

Authentically August

This month we are embarking on a twenty-six-month alphabetic topic study to explore our new normal as we begin again.  Beginning Again is not just my story anymore but the story for so many of us "aging" baby boomers who are trying to navigate the waters as we move into our senior state of being.  The last twenty-four months of spilling my guts in this blog have taught me much about myself, my thought process, and my life as I once knew it.  When I embarked on this journey two years ago, I had no idea where it would lead me, the uncertain road I have traveled and the new state of wonder where I currently reside.  Therefore, I have decided that it is time to become more outspoken about what I have learned, what I have become, and a bit more of my journey toward that unspoken road to the next life.

This month, as it is the first month on this path, the month of August, and the letter A is the first letter in the alphabet, we will explore being authentic.  Two years ago, I wrote a blog titled Becoming Our Authentic Self.  Two years ago, I was just a novice in this new awakening.  Now that I have traveled a path that has led me to new endeavors, new friendships, home city, and an entirely new spiritual path, I feel like I can better discuss authenticity.  I was out of my "comfort zone," my old thought patterns had me holding back what I genuinely believed.  I had to change my thinking and now I have the confidence to speak in a bolder more honest way than I was able to before.  So, let's take that leap of faith and begin again with the word Authentic!

Being authentic is not just being true to yourself but to all of those who we know and love.  Being authentic means being who you are, in body, mind and attitude.  Watering yourself down for others to like or accept us is no longer acceptable.  Nine years ago, I was living the life I thought I was supposed to live.  I had done everything society deemed I was meant to do; get married, have a kid, a dog (or dogs), own a house, yada, yada, yada.  Nine years later, now that all the dust has settled, I have learned that all of "that" was okay, and I'm not ready to become a dried-up old crone.  In the olden days, or in Biblical times, a widow became just that and stopped living.  I refuse to dry up and go into hiding.  I have the need to look and feel young.  I am young at heart and some of the young ones at the gym ask how old I am!  

So how do we live in a young state of mind while being authentic?  We must first stop comparing ourselves to others.  We are all different and have different learned attitudes and lifestyles.  Try new endeavors, new adventures, and new ways of thinking.  I love to travel and have no trouble going on my trips alone.  I've joined some provocative zoom courses over the last few years and have met some interesting, exciting people.  My entire state of mind changed, and my way of thinking changed 180 degrees.  So, get out of your comfort zone and learn something new!

Being authentic also means to stand in our truth.  We need to be able to speak our mind and not be afraid.  Frankly, I've been called a lot of names over time, but I spoke the truth and I am not ashamed.  The world is going to hell in a hand cart folks and it's time those with common sense stand up for what's right and speak out.  I'm not saying we need to demand repentance and convert.  I'm saying we need to stand up for our country, our rights as citizens of the United States and the world.  We need to state the truth and be bold as we march forth. Currently, we're leaving our children and grandchildren a mountain of debt, violent cities, and unparalleled confusion.  I've stated this often over our 48 months together, but I'm glad my parents and grandparents didn't live to see what's happened to our country.  Those who fought and died for the United States would be appalled.  This is tragic folks; we should be ashamed for being asleep at the wheel and letting this monstrosity of socialism happen to the greatest country in history.  The road to socialism leads to communism and we're moving full speed ahead.   Sad fact but truth, nonetheless.

Therefore, to end on a final bold note, go forth and conquer your fears!  Get out and be who you were meant to be.  God did not make us to be any other way!  Set your intentions daily, create a gratitude journal, and manifest what you truly desire.  You will find these steps will give you the courage to become who you are truly meant to be.  We are all whole, perfect, and complete in the eyes of God.  Spirit sees us as authentic, as we are all made in the image of the divine.   Who could be more authentic than that!

Freedom Is Not Free

Two trips around the sun have gone by since I took the giant leap and moved to Idaho.  I have discussed more than once that my perspective on life has changed greatly as I've laid bare my heart and soul over these last two years.  Taking the opportunity to express my thoughts, "wisdom" (or not so wise in readers eyes), and ideas has been a challenge.  With the way the world is today, I'm a bit reluctant to say too much as I'm afraid I'll offend someone.  The backlash can be frightening, and I've been called a few names I won't repeat. Therefore, now that my third Idaho summer has commenced, I have again had time to ponder and reflect on life as I now know it.  Therefore, the ideas I will express below are examples of the stage of life I have found myself at now and moving forward I hope to grow even further.  I am one who tries not to judge, although I'm not perfect in that regard.  I just ask that those who judge me by my comments below, not be too harsh.  We're all different, have differing opinions and frankly isn't this what life is all about?  

• Life is whatever you make of it.  Yes, we all get delt a bad hand of cards, experience boredom or depression but it's up to us to fix these things and make them better.  No one, nothing can do this other than you.  Trust me when I say this as I've had not always had a rosy time of it.  I changed the way I thought and opened my mind to innovative ideas and challenges.  As Ernst Holms says, "change your thinking, change your life." I am not bored, unhappy or depressed, I'm too busy for those feelings.  Get out and go, experience life and don't dwell on the past, it's finished.  People will not come to you; you must go outside of your property line to meet interesting and exciting people and experiences.  Loneliness and boredom are emotions that are unnecessary, if one has a busy and fulfilled life.  There are many opportunities to be involved with if one pulls their head out and opens their eyes.  Volunteer at an elder care facility, animal shelter or church of your choice.  Go to the gym, learn a sport, or look for classes that hold your interest.  These days, one doesn't have to show up to a live in-person class but dial in on a zoom link, in your pajamas and enjoy.  The power lies in us, not others.
• Not everyone is going to like us, and this works both ways.  I've stopped trying to please others and now work to please myself.  This is not a selfish act if done with the right intention.  We must love and care for others but, if those others are not jelling with us, it's time to walk away.  God gave us all kinds of people, therefore, chose your friends wisely and enjoy the camaraderie and mutual satisfaction a great friendship brings to both parties.  We're not going always be someone else's cup of tea, but when we understand this concept, it's easier to move forward instead of trying hard to make someone like us and, vice versa.
• Keep an open mind to every opportunity.  Sometimes we can miss the greatest blessings if our minds are closed.  If I had had a closed mind, I would never have married my husband, dated the late great Mr. Wonderful or taken the giant leap out of my comfort zone and moved.  All three were blessings in their own way and I'm grateful for the experiences.  Count your blessings, fill your heart with gratitude and thank God every day for the opportunity of another day.
• Freedom to believe and choose is what makes us uniquely Americans.  Now, we don't have to agree and frankly I don't agree with much of what's happening today in the world.  I see a destruction setting upon our way of life; however, I've learned to wait, watch, and speak my truth as I might have a part in saving our country.  One does not have to agree but be respectful in your disbelief.  We can kill more flies with honey than with vinegar.  We do, however, need to stand in our truth and for our values, homes, family and country.  
• The United States of America is a great country.  Yes, we have had our share of problems and have made mistakes.  From my viewpoint, we've fixed many of those issues and moved forward.  In some areas, we're still a work in progress but, we've come a long way baby from what we were to what we are today! America was the greatest experiment ever created, don't destroy it because when it's gone, it's not coming back.  Socialism and communism do not work. Every time they're "tried" they fail.  Use Venezuela as a good example.  If that country looks successful, then go there, live and enjoy it.  Trust me, you're not going to like it and by the way, don't let the door hit you in the ass when you leave here.  
• Finally, freedom is not free.  We are on the precipice of losing everything we have if we don't wake up and get with it!  So many of our ancestors fought and died for our freedom and liberty.  Please, do not let them slip away because of bad leadership or blind ignorance.  Get out and vote, in mass, and take the opportunity to help save our country.  It's up to us, as no one will do it for us.  With this said, happy Independence month, and embrace the freedom and liberty we Americans and citizens of the world enjoy.  
• May God Bless America!

⚾️ For The Love of The Game ⚾️

Plain and simple, I love baseball. It’s not just the smell of Dodger Dogs, popcorn, or the sounds of the crowd. No, it’s more than that, baseball is embedded in my heart and soul. This month in honor of Father’s Day, we are going to explore America’s past time and the daddies who inspired us to love this magnificent game as much as they did.

One of my early memories with my dad was watching a baseball game on our little black and white TV when we lived in Pasadena. Dad was not necessarily a huge sports fan but, he did enjoy the game of baseball and more specifically the great Los Angeles Dodgers. I was just a little kid, five or six years old, but that memory of sitting with my dad is one of my happy memories.  It was a bonding time every girl has with a loving father. As I got older and, in my teens, baseball became my focus and my passion. I'd listen to the great Vin Scully announce the games, on my transistor radio, tucked under my pillow at night.  Dad would watch it with me when they were televised, but I was always the more enthusiastic one of the two of us. Many good times were spent in Dodger Stadium, watching the boys in blue play against those loathsome Giants or the subpar Mets. When I was working, vendors would give me tickets to a game or two every season. I usually took my dad to at least one game a year and we'd enjoy a Sunday afternoon sitting in great seats and enjoying each other's company.  Those were the days my friends and over the years, my love for the game continued.

When I met John, one of the items on my list for a potential husband, yes, I had a list, was he must like baseball.  Something I've learned since then is to be extremely specific with what you want to manifest.  I neglected to state I wanted to find a husband who loved the Dodgers.  I, however, fell in love with a New York Yankee fan.  How did this happen, I'm sure my dad asked?  No one who was a true Dodger fan would entertain the thought of marrying, little alone birthing the child of a Yankee fan!  That was blasphemy!  Well, I did and since then, 27 years later, the New York Yankees have been part of my life.  

So, how did a diehard Dodger fan live with a diehard Yankee fan, some may ask?  One just goes with the flow, does not rock the boat, and frankly watches them and enjoys.  Over the last 28 years, I have watched more Yankee games than I care to admit.  Frankly, I came to appreciate the Bronx Bombers for what they are, a great baseball team, a storied club, and a legend.  The Yankees have won more games in the World Series than any other team.  In 2008, we went to New York, to see a game in old Yankee Stadium.  I hate to admit it but it was magical.  Sadly, the line was too long to visit monument park, but we had good seats (John would have had it no other way) and the Yankees went on to beat the Twins that fateful night! We met my favorite Yankee, Mariano Rivera the day before, at his restaurant in New Rochelle.  We were so impressed at how gracious and nice he was.  He made it a point to greet every person in his restaurant and chat for a minute or two.  By the way, Mariano is the skinniest man I ever had the pleasure to put my arm around.  Yes folks, I have become a Yankee fan.  

When the Yankees would come to Seattle every year to play the Mariners, we would attend at least one game, the three of us together.  John and our one and only would watch one or two more in person, and experience that father-daughter bonding, that I experienced many years before.  To this day, 8 1/2 years later, our one and only is still a diehard Yankee fan and I know her daddy is proud of her.  This year she's going to see them in both Tampa and Minneapolis.  Her dad will be with her in spirit, sitting on her shoulder and cheering on their team.  This father - daughter baseball bonding continues, throughout the span of time.

After John passed away, I went back to nightly viewings of my beloved Dodgers, but I felt that missing link.  So now I have it timed where I can start the Yankees around 5:30 and catch up with the Dodgers at 8:05.  I have the best of both worlds and pay the price to watch my teams on MLB TV, whenever I want to catch a game. My life from April through October is baseball heaven.  Watching baseball is so much better than politics, and so much more comfortable than worrying about the state of the world.  The only angst I feel is if my team loses by doing something dumb.  It happens and yes, my emotions show and it's not always in a ladylike fashion.

So Dad, one can be a fan of both teams.  Yes, the Yankees are still the "enemy" of our beloved Dodgers but, the fun is there and hey, I don't have to pick sides!  I just go with the flow!  The magic of baseball still reigns in my home and thankfully my heart easily loves both teams equally.  Happy Father's Day, Daddy and let's hope for a Dodger-Yankee World Series this year and may the best team win! 

Daddy about 2011

 

Mother's Day Memories

 As I sit here and write this blog, I'm remembering my own mother and dear grandmother.  I think about both daily but around Mother's Day, their memories are even greater.  They both were invaluable in my life and had so much to say, and so much wisdom to impart.  The journey I've walked these last few years would have astounded both.  The fact I'm a mother, would have amused my grandmother and my own mother I think, went to her grave in disbelief.  You see, motherhood and marriage was never much on my mind or heart.  I was the "cat lady" in those days, the girl who had a bunch of cats.  I enjoyed my single life, worked hard, partied hearty and frankly, was living the dream.  It took a strong man, a decent guy and one with a work ethic to turn my head.  He was a baseball fan, although not my team so I figured why not, I could get involved!  So here I am, 29 years later, living the dream as a single girl again, someone's mother and happy in my space.  Crazy as it sounds, who would have ever imagined, my life has gone in a in full circle and I'm back to where I started.

As appropriate as the name of my blog is, Beginning Again, I truly have begun again.  No, I'm not out trolling for a date (I never really did that), or partying hearty (although lately I seem to have an active social life); I am back to enjoying my space, my life, and my new beginning in Boise.  Who would have thunk it!  What I've discovered is that, beginning again, this time on my terms, has been an amazing ride.  I started this blog two years ago, to heal my broken heart and move forward, and now I write for the sheer pleasure of writing and trying to make a difference.  I know my friends think I'm nuts, but frankly, standing in my truth makes me a little nuts.  I haven't got much to lose at this point, other than some of the "placeholders" that are tending to fall away anyway, or the phonies who I no longer have a tolerance for.  I have learned to enjoy my life again, with these two little boys who are keeping me hopping, the friends who have entered my life over the last two years and the memories I seem to be making regularly.  So how exactly did I do this?  What did it take for me to find peace of mind, a new path, and a new beginning?  

First, I decided I could care less what anyone thinks about me.  I mentioned this to my study group this week and they were rather surprised as who does this?!  Me!  I really do not give a flying you know what about what anyone thinks of me.  I live my life according to the Golden Rule, the Ten Commandments, and my heart knowledge.  I stand regularly in my truth and those who find that intimidating has fallen away.

Second, I know my heart.  I regularly listen to my Higher Self and understand what is right for me.  This is a practice and I'm still in the learning phase.  I am tapped in and so far, have not been steered wrong.  My dear friend Maureen St. Germain is a great teacher on this subject, check her out and her books.  She's amazing.  

Third, I have gained the wisdom to find my inner peace.  I know that everything that happens is for a reason, and I count my blessings daily.  What seemed like the end of the world two years ago, turned into a blessing of unimagined proportions.  No, I'm still sad about the way that "thing" worked out but see the blessing and have moved on.  I was on a Facebook Live Zoom call the other day, looked at the participants in the group and realized that that one person, acting as a conduit for the universe, brought all those people into my life.  These participants were all over the world, of various ages and backgrounds.  I would never have ever been in that group but for this one blessing.  Crazy, but a wonderful crazy all the same.

So back to Mother's Day and my own mother.  I owe her so much, love her and miss her desperately.  Over the last few years, I have wished over and over that she was still here.  My grandmother as well.  Nannie has been gone for thirty years, but I still miss her and her words of wisdom.  Knowing what I know now about her life through my genealogy studies, I have so many unanswered questions. Therefore, Mother's Day is not just about giving birth, but the nurturing, imparting of wisdom and being a friend to the most important people in a mother's life.  Through this journey of the last two years, I believe my one and only has discovered I'm more than just Mom, but a human being with feelings, fears, courage and tenacity.  I know she's followed my journey with an open mind and heart and has taken to heart these blogs.  I just hope she doesn't make my mistakes, learned from what I've done right and has been encouraged on her own journey.  I pray that mother's prayer for health, safety and peace of mind.  So onward and upward to all my mom friends, and Happy Mother's Day!

Mom with Nicholas and Bonnie 2013

I Was Insane

I've been a bit impulsive over the years, and at other times, it takes me weeks to make a simple decision.  That's just how I'm wired, and someone once told me I think too much.  I have found that the more I ruminate on the decision I'm trying to make, the less I understand myself, and the why's behind the hesitation.  Therefore, when my dear Bonnie died, I knew I would need another dog to love as I love dogs and their constant companionship.  Toni told me to get two," you need two," she said.  "Two will keep each other company!"  Other well-meaning friends told me I was crazy, as taking on two eight week old puppies would be enough to drive even the most stable among us insane.  Others said to wait, morn, grieve and get over the tremendous loss of such a faithful companion.  I however jumped, and was yes, impulsive!  Here I am, four months later asking myself the simple question, "Was I Insane?!"

Now don't get me wrong, I love these little monsters.  Anyone who follows me on Instagram will know, I'm crazy in love with these two boys.  Hell, they even have their own Instagram page "The Adventures of Stuart and Toby."  However, I must confess, I was crazy to take on these two terrorists at the same time.  My house, my yard and my life has been in a four-month whirlwind of emotions since day one.  The energy level is high here, from the time I wake them up at 7:00am until they go night night promptly at 10:00pm.  My senses are always on high alert, and forget about trying to write, read or meditate.  If I don't do that as soon as I get up, you can forget it.  

The other day I heard some odd scratching, I was not on my game you see, I was mentally elsewhere.  Most likely I was playing Words With Friends or Candy Crush.  When I finally decided to investigate the source of this odd noise, I found a corner of the molding in my family room, gnawed down to the woodwork.    Now, we have more chewie's in this house than in a small kennel.  Toby The Termite decided the corner woodwork was better tasting than the chicken flavored chewie, he has so fondly placed under my dining room table.  That corner is only the tip of the iceberg this guy has gnawed.  My antique wood lamp table, my desk legs, oh let's not forget the kitchen cabinet, my hands, and please do not let me forget the wood pillars out on the patio...  I had forgotten how "oral" Westies are.  My Nicholas did the same thing.  I remember, the branch of my lovely Camellia bush coming in my back door.  I think my husband got a good laugh, and an I told you so out of that incident.

My garden is a mine field of great opportunities for diggers, and terriers love to dig!  Last year I planted several peonies, one is now half dug up and leaves ripped from the roots.  The small hydrangea from last year's planting, appeared on my lounge chair and let's not forget the lilac bush has lost a couple branches.  My roses were temporarily in wire cages until the new wire fencing was finally installed around the entire yard.  The grass is the only area where they're allowed.  They can of course lay out on the lounge chairs as they provide a bird's eye view into the family room.  More than once I've felt two pairs of eyes, peering in at me.  They are nosey little terrorists and keep their eyes on me to see what's up or if the refrigerator door has opened! This is a 24/7 job for mom and relaxation is no longer on my radar. I am constantly on edge for what's next.

Now, they are very sweet, and the house training is actually going well for the most part.  My boy Toby has got the gist of it, but Stuart... well let's just say he's forgetful.   Stu has his good days and then there are the more challenging days.  I continue to forget Scottie dogs are stubborn and Stu is stubborn.  Let's just say, some days are better than others for both boys.  Therefore, I continue to keep towels in strategic locations in my main living area, and they continue to be used.  

Then there’s the climbing.  Climbing has become a new art for Toby as he is lighter weight with longer legs.  I have found him everywhere, investigating the top tier of the couches, on my mother cedar chest and yes, he's made it up to my bed when I'm not looking.  My bedroom is my sacred space, so normally they are not allowed in there.  They are sneaky you see, and the baby gate I have at bedroom doorway has been violated, more than once.  I've even found my muscular, squatty, short legged Stuart, sitting on the bed and how he got up there is anyone's guess.

Eating is another matter.  I'm going through puppy food faster than lightening.  OMG these dudes can eat!  Bonnie was a somewhat picky eater, not these two.  They continue to be on puppy food as they are puppies.  I have to lock them in the playpen with a frozen Kong, while I eat.  As much as I've tried, there are not any boundaries when it comes to my meals.  I must eat up at the bar now, not in my favorite chair.  Food is simply their favorite thing. 

With all this said however, I'm still glad I got two babies.  Toni was right, two is the best option.  When they poop out, they're adorable.  Toby likes to snuggle on my lap and Stu loves the couch (lots of blankets are covering it).  As I type, they're both napping in their respective stations in my office, snoring those sweet sounds and sometimes dream barks.  I love these two dudes, they healed the heart break over Bonnie, and have helped me move forward to my new beginnings.  Please remind me of this blog when I look at that corner molding and cry.  Help me remember how much I love them and not look back but to look forward.  They will grow up, I just know it...

My boy Stuart The Squatty Scottie

My Other Boy Toby The Termite 

What The Heck Is Going On?

We've been together eight weeks now, my two boys and me.  What a delightful change they've made to my life and yes, I'm constantly on my toes; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  I need to remember to watch where to put my shoes, Kleenex box and anything else I want to keep for at least 48 hours.  These dudes can be destructive if left to their own devises.  The other night, I was able to peer in their little or not so little mouths, and low and behold, they're losing teeth!  Big gaps in their gums have appeared and little, tiny teeth seem to be sprouting.  Please God, make them not be as sharp!

Going outside is a big deal for these little fellows.  I had to install gates leading into my main yard and what a wonderful freeing feeling that is for both them and me.  They cannot get out as I've shored up any gaps under the fence line.  They love to chase each other around the yard with complete abandon, dig in my roses and catch some sun out on the rocks or more recently, my lounge chairs.  Every now and then, when they feel the need, they actually come in to rest and have a snack.  Its exhausting being a little dog in a big yard with freedom to move. Potty training is going well, not too many puddles in the house these days, as it's more fun to pee outside than on mommy's kitchen floor.  It's slow going but it's happening and there's a grooming appointment on the horizon very soon!

Meanwhile outside our little neighborhood, life still moves on. These days I like the rest of the world, have a interest in Ukraine situation.  The devastation being rained down on innocent people is tragic and this applies to both sides of the equation.  War is not pretty, and what is visible to the outside world is not necessarily a true picture of the situation. As I type, bio labs have been revealed and I can't help thinking that there is more to this than what meets the eye.  I for one am a skeptic and the need to know more has become a focus for me.  As a citizen of the USA and frankly the world, what is being manufactured in those labs, who's behind this, and where's the product going?  I have my suspicions frankly.  From what I've come to understand, these are not recent labs, they've been there for many years.  Who's been checking and monitoring these labs one may ask themselves?  The need to know seems to be more and more urgent.  The apparent question now is, what the heck is going on?

Gas has gone up more than $2.00 a gallon in the year and a half I've lived here.  Thank God I'm in Idaho, not California where its bank breaking expensive and who can afford $7.00 a gallon for gasoline?  Diesel is over $9.00 a gallon for heaven's sake! Food prices are soaring and if it's not apparent to anyone other than me, supply chains all run on... wait for it folks... fuel!   Clean energy is an option but it's not the end all, die all as some people seem to think. The Green New Deal is simply a pipe dream, and those who have studied the global economy know this to be true.  Our modern society relies on petroleum, this is a simple fact.  Plastics, fertilizers, calking, soft contact lenses, heart valves and many, many more products are all made from petroleum products.  Don't fall for the notion that petroleum is evil.  The petroleum industry makes our society run.  Even Elon Musk came out and stated we must be drilling for oil.  So, drill baby drill but do it safe for our environment and cost effectively.  

The mask nonsense continues even though no one here wears one.  I recently traveled down to Arizona and was forced to wear the stupid thing in the airport and during flight.  Passengers and the flight attendants all seem weary of this nonsense.  They don't do anything but cause zits, coughing fits and the inability to take a deep breath.  I was actually dizzy and couldn't breathe in the stupid #$$%*Ng thing.   With that thought in mind, the dreaded face diaper needs to go away immediately.  I just hope it's gone when I leave for Peru as it’s going to be a long trip not being able to breathe. 

If all the above is not bad enough, Fake News is still here folks and festering as normal.  Fake News is the enemy of the people.  Spewing their garbage has given us what we're facing today in this country and worldwide. Censorship is now rampant and alternative forms of entertainment have become the norm.  My friend Doc has had to abandon his Facebook show for a viewer subscribed internet forum.  The YouTube censors are after him as well along with many others.  This is censorship folks and it is scary stuff. Our world is in a state of uncertainty and frankly a free fall if we don’t come to our senses and see the truth behind the facades. Fake News created the lies we hear nightly and what I do not understand is how seemingly intelligent people believe their bull crap?!  But then again, there were a lot of very intelligent people in 1932 Germany who fell for a similar line of fertilizer.   

I am grateful to have awakened to the nonsense of the world today.  Having been awakened is very different than being "woke."  I've been awake for many years but over the last couple of years, I changed my thinking in a dramatic way and thus, changed my life.  I took the first two jabs last year but never again.  I don't trust the government doctors and by the way, where is the diabolical Dr Fauci hiding these days?  That little criminal is responsible for much of the garbage we've been fed.  I for one, have been following a naturopathic set of ideas and they have worked well as I've not had Covid or even a cold.  My prescription is to load up on Vitamin C, D3, zinc, magnesium and turmeric.  Make your own quinine as it's a natural immune booster or drink diet tonic water as it also contains quinine.   All these minerals and natural protections will keep you healthy and boost your immune system.  Cut out sugars and heavy carbs as they are toxins.  Exercise, fresh air, and sunshine are key along with meditation and prayer.  Our state of mind is just as important as what we ingest.  Negative thinking can make us sick so go out, take a long walk, and enjoy mother earth.  A holistic approach to our health care can't hurt, only help.  It's worked for me and others who walk my path.

Therefore, my friends, we are living in interesting times.  It's imperative that we pray for world peace, and we must put ourselves right with our creator.  We're in a worldwide shift, and I fear for our children and grandchildren.  The world is in a state of upheaval but there is hope and happiness to be had.  We must be on guard as we are on the precipice of global communism or the New World Order.  So, stand your ground and watch for the next shoe drop.  It's going to be a wild ride.  

Sedona 2022