Katherine Rose Kocsis

Katey tends to do things on her own schedule.  When she arrived on this date in 1986, she decided to make her appearance before its scheduled time.  Because we had this arrival (c-section) carefully planned with nanny and poppy coming out to help with the boys, my darling daughter decided, no....its not going to go that way.  We went for a doctor visit at Hutzel Hospital and the doc said "today is the day". She wants to emerge. And she did!  I really did not know where to start on this tome about her.  Born beautiful, brilliant and fiercely loyal, and prone to spontaneity, my girl turns 35 today.

This is me and her a few years ago in the sunshine (note my red face).  When she was a teenager the only time she seemed to like me was when my credit card was out at the American Eagle store for purchases.  At 13-14 she was a monster soccer player and a force to be reckoned with as a defender.  She and some of her hand picked soccer pals were the terrors of the indoor dome in Royal Oak as TKO, which i helped coach even they did not need much direction.  Ultimately we were banned due to the destruction of the other teams. 

After high school she went on to serve for 8 years on the U.S. Navy mostly as an admin to her captain who was a dead ringer for Barack Obama.  Later she served as the security leader for the Joint Forces College in VA.  No one got past her regardless of rank or country of origin without proper credentials.  The Navy really made an adult of her.  She had to solve problems and take responsibility for mistakes.  The officers and chiefs in charge were not parents.  

After, a few minor retail jobs, she learned the house appraisal business and again her problem solving skill were put to good use.  Now she is in the mortgage industry climbing the learning curve. I love this child of my and cannot wait to see what the future holds for her.

No bitching, no politics, and no reviews today.

all for now

stay safe 

 
 

Fully Baked

We finally ate in a restaurant day before yesterday because we are fully baked with the vaccine.  They spaced the seating at the tables but not at the bar.  It was shoulder to shoulder there.  Our server had to deal with all the spaced out diners and make drinks at the bar.  Staffing kept at a minimum.  Food was good but the experience was just OK. It was so cold in there we had to where our coats to eat.  But, it was an outing and something we had not done in over a year. Because of our lack of knowledge of what the future holds with this illness, will probably keep dining out to a minimum. 

We took the dogs to the Madison Heights Nature center for a walk yesterday in that the temps were in the mid-forties.  The had a blast smelling, peeing and pooping at will marking their territory.  These two are old buddies and always get along with each other. It was fun for us too to get out and walk in on their paved walkways.  

Had coffee with my cronies in the early am with everyone regaling with stories of their past lives.  Me and Jordy were both outside salesmen and have lots of tales to share.  It is important to connect with people and escape the isolation.  The American Legion is offering fish dinners for Lent.  It sounds good but the cost is prohibitive.  Probably will pass. Working to get rid of the beard by my birthday in March.  This is the interim stage. I know really a boring topic.

The free enterprise system has not served the State of Texas well.  The owners of the company that provides power to the populace failed to update their equipment to ready for cold and snow leading to catastrophic consequences in order to keep profits high. Residents with destroyed homes are being hit with giant power bills.  One guy had thousands deducted from his account, not a bill in the mail.  There continues to be a lot of suffering in the Lone Star state.  I hope federal aid will be forthcoming to aid them.   And, Tiger Woods flipped his car as seen all over the news yesterday.  With his legs damaged that much, his career may be seriously damaged.  My father and mother loved to see him play on those boring Sunday afternoons when he was a young golfer.

Started watching Perry Mason on HBO Max.  The books were originally penned by Earl Stanley Gardner.  The character was a defense lawyer as we all know depicted by Raymond Burr in the black and white fifties.  Matthew Rhys portrays the character as a private eye not an attorney.  John Lithgow is masterful in a supporting role.  For me the jury is out on this one.

Sorry really rambling today.

All for now

enjoy the warmer temps

stay safe.

 

Drumming and an evil woman

 

I know all the reviews become boring and banal.  But I have to share a couple.  Yesterday was a movie day and we watched a couple of good ones.  First, "Drumline" with Nick Cannon and Orlando Jones. Story of competitive drumming in a HBC setting in Atlanta.  Decent story and a wonderful display of halftime performances. Although a depiction of higher learning, no classes and no football.  it was focused on the rudiments of rhythm and coordinating movement with playing.  The players in their respective units were outstanding.  Could not help toe taping with the music.

Next, another drumming film, "Whiplash" featuring an Oscar winning performance by J.K. Simmons the veteran character actor.  He is a brutish autocratic music instructor at an elite Manhattan school for gifted musicians.  His foil or victim is played by a self taught acting drummer, Miles Teller  The ferociousness of Simmon's portrayal is astounding and truly scary.  This intense film is not for the faint of heart.  I love the musical selections as a fan of older pop music.  But this is not so much about performance as it is a trial of wills between teacher and student.  Music and film critics hated the film.  I am still thinking about all the screaming from Simmon's character. I absolutely loved it.  I am really attracted to dark characters. It made me want to hunt up some Buddy Rich albums.

And speaking of dark evil characters, consider the new one on Netfilx "I Care Alot" starring Rosalind Pike in a diabolical story that could really happen to any senior citizen. If you are alone with no next of kin, have yourself declared incompetent and have all your belongings taken by a state appointed legal guardian.  Get put in a care home and well.....that's it.  But not so fast. The evil genius female is messing with the wrong family.  Really outstanding performances by Peter Dinkledge and Diane Wiest.  Definitely check this one out. 

We also started watching "Nomadland" with Frances McDormand.  This was way too dreary for me although all of it could easily happen. Lots of acclaim has been heaped on this one.  Most of the comments in Facebook have been positive.  But looking at her, I could write a story about her face.  It's full of nuance and makes me happy watching her expressive smile.

all for now

stay safe

Random Odds and Ends

Have had some time to ruminate over the second impeachment trial of 45.   The former president was found guilty in the Senate trial of incitement of violence against the United States (paraphrased from the Articles of Impeachment). However, the only remedy that impeachment provides is removal from office.  He was already gone so that's it. In my opinion this process, while morally correct and sufficient, and might lead to his inability to run for high public office again, but with the preponderance of his supporters in the Senate ranks, was unlikely.  McConnel's insistence that the House Managers wait was a ploy because he knew this would happen.  Knowing that, his impassioned speech after the verdict was read sounded hollow, even though it sounded good.  Now I am through talking about the subject.

This lack of social contact is getting to me.  I think the reason I grocery shop so much is that I need to see people, even walking around not speaking to me.  After the 23rd of February, I will be fully charged up with the Pfizer vaccine.  I am looking so forward to face to face interaction with more people.  I have been hiding behind a beard for about 4 months.  I am ready to shed it soon, maybe even today.  Mostly change for the sake of change.  Was reading today that a sedentary life not only makes you fat, depressed, provides shoulder and back pain, but decreases your attention span.  I find this is true.  I cannot even read an entire article either on line or in print because my attention wanders and i need to see the next thing.  

Not trying to shill for these guys but have to mention this product that my family has become enamored of.  This is Trader Joes Sweet Chili Sauce.  It goes good on nearly everything from proteins to salad to pasta or farro. It has very little sugar so its good for people like me.  I am bartering it like currency for other foods I enjoy because friends have became hooked like me.  It's only 1.49 per bottle and you will not be disappointed.

We had the little boys over for the day on Wednesday,  It was a fun, extremely active day that included a visit to one of my friends in the building.  He wisely put on a kid show and after taking off their shoes and socks the pair settled in to view the show and pet his old dog who loved the attention.  These little people are wired to figure out technology.  Refusing help, Paxton found where he wanted to go on my laptop and got our small bedroom TV to function and find the programming he wanted.  No help from any adult.  

Getting outside today, need to move.

all for now

stay safe

 

 

A Snowpolooza, not really

 

After endless forecasts of an upcoming snow storm in the metro Detroit area, we got about 4 inches of lovely fluffy stuff.  The weathermen have been filling the news broadcasts with dire predictions with shots of salt trucks and snow plows for about a week. Yes it will be a pain to clean off the cars and the side streets will be slow going. But really....its Michigan, its February.  Snow should not be a surprise.

Had a good conversation with friend Bob yesterday and he was feeling down due to all the deaths from a variety of causes in his family and friends.  We recounted the funny things that happened when we worked together and post retirement interactions with our mutual friends.  Really trying to stay connected with pals. It does me good and gives something to look forward to in the winter doldrums.  Also spoke to my Uncle Len at length in the morning.  Our conversations are a real treat for me and there are snippets of family history slipped in that give me further insight to our past. His 90th birthday is coming up and I will be sure to make that my next call. We FaceTimed with sweet friend Janine in the evening.  Most of the bitching was about February in Michigan and how our dogs dislike the cold and snow. Hope to see her soon in that our shots are full potent later this month.

So Beaumont had to postpone covid shots for 1800 second shot candidates because of a supply shortage.  It might be that the drugstores that will benefit handsomely from their customers obtaining the vaccines from their profit centers. 

We finally caught film 1917 on Showtime last night.  It might have been the most accurate viewing of trench warfare and its brutality.  The characters were relatable and well presented.  Benedict Cumberbatch as the Colonel was brief cameo with a satisfying F*ck Off! as his parting words.  Its kind of late in the game, but if you get the chance, see this one.  

I started watching Shameless at Katey's during my visits to take care of Apollo for his daily meal and outing.  I love this show.  Frank Gallagher is a complete disaster and the actors portraying his kids are believable problem solvers continuing to find solutions for life. My wife and I would probably part company on this one.   

Thats it.

stay safe

all for now

Covid - 2

So, I received the second Covid-19 shot yesterday afternoon with the first one being 3 weeks prior.  As of about 19 hours later, no ill effects with the exception of a sore arm have emerged. I woke early expecting to feel badly.  Judy and I received the Pfizer vaccine.  People I am aware of have had it with no problems in the second shot.  The county is bringing first shots to our apartment complex today.  I think most of the residents will receive it. I cannot say enough good things about the Beaumont Service Center team and their handling of this process.  Things were organized and efficient and kindness was exhibited by the staff for folks that needed it. 

Thus far in 2021, I have been working on body improvement.  After my fall in December, my wife convinced me to get some physical therapy for improving core strength and balance.  Six sessions later, I see some improvement and with 5 minutes of stretching exercises in the morning.

Next, my sugars had gone off track and were in a range that could be harmful to my body.  In today's reality with medical care, physicians employed by big medical corporations will give you a 15 minute zoom call at best.  Gone are the days when I could have an honest conversation with my doc who really knew me.  Not bitching, but we all live in this reality.  After this long preamble, I signed up for Diabetic Self Management classes at Beaumont Hospital.  Started them last Monday and most of which was the standard info about the disease, informative but I only picked up a couple of tips along the way.  However the guest speaker was a hospital affiliated podiatrist.  He put on a visual presentation that would shock the most hardened and disinterested all American male.  These photos are etched on the refrigerator door of my mind.  Many of the men I know with this condition don't take it seriously.  If they saw this, they would become believers.  This guy presented his facts methodically and without emotion but definitely hitting home.

I messaged my cousin in Australia this early morning.  They will not have any vaccines before 2022.  The case count in this country has been very low, about 29,000 since the counting began with 909 deaths. They have been not allowing any travel to or from Australia.  No one leaves and no on comes in,  aside from the tennis pros for the Australian open.

Did you know that if you have no mortgage and do not carry credit card debt your credit score will go down, just from not being in debt, ie. pay all your bills and your score goes down. Delightful.

I am doing my best to stay away from the impeachment trial that fills the airways for the next days.  I fear that even if overwhelming evidence is presented, there will be no conviction due to loyalty to him and the party.  Consciences will be put on the back burner of the stove.

All for now

stay safe

Stuck in Traffic

Its happened to all of us.  When entering a limited access highway, we see an overhead sign that reads basically "This road closes in 7 miles".  Yeah yeah yeah, the traffic is moving at the posted speed or above and you say to yourself, "that must be old news, it looks pretty open".  So, you get on anyway and find yourself abruptly stopped, dead in about 5 miles.  That's it no movement and a freeway full of cars and 18 wheelers across 4 lanes of traffic. And then we sit.  You call yourself unpleasant names and curse your bad judgment.  You also think of the other route you considered which would have been on city streets but would be progressing nicely. And you wait.  The car is moving 5 feet at a time.  You read the signage on the trucks sitting there with you and wonder what they are hauling. And you sit. "I am going to be mature and not lash out or curse" because it would frankly be futile. Also in the meantime your 70 year old bladder is filling up as you are approaching the 3 hour mark in your struggle.  And still you remain calm.  We all have had that feeling.  

Our trip was to the VA for my wife to get an ID card so she could obtain services that she earned from her time in the U.S. Navy.  And....things finally open up and we get to our destination. Find parking, down the elevator and to the entrance that says Veterans Only.  Stop for a moment and think about that statement in my shoes. I did not serve.  Fortunately for me there was a greeter of sorts and after my heartfelt explanation, she directed me to the men's room.

Other than that, the day was calm, making dinner for kids, watching TV again and dealing with Harry.  Judy was working with Katey on some paperwork and I took the time to message friends on FB Messenger reconnecting with folks also enduring the lockdown and restrictive movements which was fun. All sent back extensive responses so we all must be in the same boring boat.  I have told a bunch of people about Humans of New York as I have found the stories to be fascinating and sometimes touching.  

It snowed here last night.  The weatherman makes it sound like "snowmageden". Its Michigan, its February, it snows. This guy gives us updates every ten minutes with graphics that mean nothing to me about the leading edge, a snowmaker, and organized storm etc.  It snowed and will be plowed and shoveled.  Its only 3 inches. This isn't New Jersey where they close schools, churches and stores when there is a dusting. 

So, put your boots on and pull the hat over your ears or do nothing and stay inside.

all for now 

stay safe

More reivews....not much else to do

 Another series from Australia worth watching is Deep Water (Netflix) a 4 episode murder mystery procedural with a cast that was new to me, however the female lead was in Orange is the New Black. Also creepily interesting is the Christian Bale portrayal of Dick Cheney in Vice (Hulu). This guy is brilliantly evil and cutthroat.  Now that we are two administrations past the Dubya era, it provides an interesting prospective.  I know lots of reviews lately, not really doing much besides viewing programs.  

Recently finished physical therapy. I believe it actually helped my balance issues.  He gave me about 10 minutes of exercises to do every day to strengthen my core and stretch my back.  Back pain is gone.  I had to convince my doc to prescribe this after a long discussion.  My point being is that we have to use the tools in our toolbox to stay healthy.  None of the parts work as good as they used to, and we have to live in the real world. 

We are supposed to receive our second Covid shot on February 9th.  Had no ill effects from the first one.  I am expecting to feel shitty for a day or so after the second is received, but I feel worth it.  Going to Trader Joe's today for provisions, my big outing of the day.  Frankly, its refreshing to be around faces however covered even if only briefly.  

I am weary of watching all the news outlets.  Case counts and death tolls are crushing.  I know I should be watching the train wreck looking for the light at the end of the tunnel.  Truly don't want to hear all the speeches connected to the ill fated second impeachment trial.  The most hopeful are the group of Senators floating a compromise to Biden on the Covid relief plan.  Even with a wide chasm between the two sides, it provides a small glimmer of hope that they are talking.

all for now

stay safe

Leonard J. Robare

This gentleman is my Uncle Len, my mother Dorothy's youngest brother.  At 89, he is my last surviving relation from that generation.  He served during the Korean war and completed night school (there's an old term) at Lawrence Tech in the 50's.  Married his wife Alice and had two handsome boys.  He went on to a successful career in engineering at Chrysler, retired from there
 

and went to form 2 successful auto related business in Michigan.  I write all this because he and I spoke yesterday.  His father died at 52 and he wanted to live longer, making fitness a priority in his life.  I remember in my twenties him passing me by during the Oak Apple Run in Royal Oak like I was standing still.  I still have that image stuck in my head.  

Alice needed care he could no longer provide and she is in assisted living.  His oldest son Don recently retired from GM and youngest Dennis is still working in architecture.  Len now lives north of me.  His dwelling is on a 7 acre plot that he takes care of mowing the grounds in a tractor.  He still has a daily fitness routine involving a treadmill.  I love talking to this guy.  He gives me some inspiration for my future.  I consider our conversations a gift to be cherished. At 89 he still has a lot to offer and prospective to teach.

Do you love the illustration above?  This along with this and my ugly blue rubber crocs are the current metaphors for my my life.  My daughter Katey abhors them but they provide comfort and simplicity. 

I usually don't comment on books.  This volume that comes out tomorrow is a New York City story about two dogs, owners and the friendship of women and Mah Jong.  It was the subject of a report on CBS Sunday Morning.  I like my dog and dogs in general but this is the ultimate story for the obsessed dog lover.  I admit to being quite moved by the story and the author's explanation.  Might be one to consider.

We viewed historical drama based on reality called The Dig on Netflix about the discovery of a burial ship under a mound from the Anglo-Saxon era.  Both of the lead actor deliver masterful performances with a great supporting cast.  This one is a definite find for a lockdown frenzied program search you might be stuck in.

(do you love the visual aids?)

all for now

stay safe