Corkscrewed

Judy and I recently decided to have a glass of wine in the evening as the day came to a close.  We had a couple of bottles of cabernet stashed away.  Completed the first one, attempted to uncork the second and using our newer corkscrew we couldn't get the cork to unseat. Upon continued attempts, the rim of the device slipped past the ridge of the bottle (as pictured). Now, we have a problem. Even with the hand tools in my possession, could not get the device off.  Finally plunged the cork into the wine, putting the glasses in the sink sloppily dumped out the wine.  The empty wine bottle with device attached are now sitting in the recycle box.  We are back to the liquor store corkscrew which works just fine aside from tightening screws from time to time. Sometimes better to stick with the tried and true.

Went on a wonderful but breezy walk at Innovation Hills with group of friends after lunch in Clawson.  Because it was so warm, the turtles were sunning themselves on the logs in the pond.  Lots of folks were walking their dogs.  One friend had here dog Sugar in tow and she must have stopped a thousand times to gather smells or take a quick piss.  

We are all fully vaccinated and past our waiting period.  Beyond reminisces between us,  we discussed the large number of citizens that have refused to accept the vaccine.  Are they fearful of the dreaded second shot side effects? Are they wary of any program brought forth by the government? Are they concerned about imagined long term effects?  Are they folks that hate shots and say I just don't want to? The continuing political chasm has widened to include those willing to be vaccinated and those that are not.  I am extremely troubled by this fact of life.  Without full participation, this virus will not be mitigated and surges will continue. I am convinced we will be getting booster shots maybe annually anyway with the variants that will emerge.  

Sat thru a chilly soccer practice for Elijah in the evening yesterday.  It said 72 but with the wind and the open field, I was freezing.  These boys are now all about 11 and many have really stretched out.  They have been playing together since the second grade and are still having fun. 

The former president has launched a website that extolls his many virtues and self pronounced accomplishments.  I had to look.

all for now

stay safe

get a shot. 

 

Writers Write

Watching 60 Minutes last night, one of the features was on renowned sports writer Dave Kindred.   He got old and lost a grandson and his wife was completely debilitated by a stroke, leaving him alone.  Always a writer, and living in the middle of Illinois, he happened upon a girls basketball game at the local high school.  As if by instinct, he brought out his pad and began writing about the game, the players and the coach, later interviewing the participants about their insight on the game just played.  The fact of the matter is that writers, write.  They cannot help it.  His articles are also purposeful in the he has a deadline to meet for the school publication.  People are waiting to read his accounting of the events of the game and open their own discussions.  It was a touching story that hit home for me.  I started writing this blog in the year I retired from my long time employment.  Now been at it for 5 years. It has been therapeutic for me to express and make observations also allowing me to order my thoughts.   

Made successful pizza and faro salad for the troops yesterday.  We rewatched Dana Carvey and clips of Mettalica on Stephen Colbert.  Carvey's impressions of Biden, Fauci and all the Beatles were outstanding with Fauci's cursing being the high point. Colbert's wife Evie was dying with laughter in the background. It was fun to watch with a crowd.  Andrew revealed that James Hetfield's playing was why he wanted to learn the guitar. 

We are currently watching a brilliant Britbox series The Bay, a murder mystery series with many flawed characters, very intense and very complicated plot.  Judy is really into it and I know its good, but I am completely lost.  Whether it's the dialects or all the characters, my stupidity is now betrayed. 

Disappointed today that it is so cold.  I know its March, and I want to put away the gloves and winter coats, but not this morning.  Taking Harry for a walk, I will have to fight him into his dreaded coat that he detests.   And yes..... tomorrow warmth will again emerge. 

all for now

stay safe 

If you haven't yet, get your shot;

Traveling thru my past and Kid marathon

I dropped off Judy at the VA in Detroit for some scheduled tests, nothing big just some maintenance and work getting into their system since she recently became eligible.  Because I-75 is under extended construction, I traveled Woodward Ave instead taking a trip down memory lane of my earlier life.

Near 7 Mile Road is 441 West Hollywood, Detroit, my home till I was about 10, now is non-existent.  The street is completely decimated. Most homes are not habitable. The place where grandmas house stood is now vacant and brush filled lot. It was a 2 family brick home with us living on the lower level and my mother's brother and his family living upstairs.  There was no driveway and an alley in back, and a garage with a rear entry.  Uncle Len worked on his cars there.   Mrs. Mithen's house next door is still standing but boarded up. 

Miley and Miley Shrimp Shack is gone on Woodward near Davison but the sign is still emblazoned on the side of the building.  The Famous Coachman often mentioned this establishment on his Sunday morning blues radio program in the 70's and 80's. The place always sounded musical when he mentioned it. Sadly he got bounced off public radio for self promotion after 21 years on the air. 

Sydney Boggs Chocolates on Woodward near my street dispensed the finest confections and rock candy handed out on Halloween to us kids now boarded up with the sign still painted on the side.  

My elementary school Greenfield Union School is still operating and now includes a middle school.  In fact the building still looks pretty good.  Had a lot of good memories walking to this place about 2 blocks from home,  being safe with the safety patrol standing guard on 7 mile road. I remember my kindergarten teacher, Miss Lyons who was so kind to a scared little boy. My Second grade teacher Mrs. Romanski that taught me to read by doubling up my work and the lightbulb finally went on. I could read to myself.

In further travels, stopped at New York Bagel for a New Yorker (onion roll).  Stopped there countless mornings on my way to work downtown.  Howard the owner was always friendly and helpful.  The workers were largely Russian, working and sweating thru the baking process. These bakers are true artisans.  Watching the guy loading the smoking hot oven with proofed dough bagels always amazed me.  He never stopped. Only poking his head into the lobby rarely to take a break from the heat.  The prices still are about the same and the bagels are still chewy and terrific.

I am fortunate to still have memories to visit in all these places.   

My littlest guys spent Wednesday and Thursday with us,  We were blessed with good, sunny weather and spring like temperatures so we had lots of park time,  They loved the chicken tenders and frozen fries I made.  I am always pleased when I find something Everett enjoys.  The sleepover aspect went well but the babies that crashed when their head hit the pillows as little boys stayed up till past 10 and finally went down.  Judy and I had a glass of wine to celebrate.  Thursday afternoon Eli and Marie came after school and we indulged in LC pizza, mediocre at best but they loved it and another run around the park.  Both of the older grandkids helped corralling the little ones which made a big difference.  Finally quiet at 8:30 and another glass of wine,

Went to BA Barbershop in Madison Hts. with Eli yesterday.  His father followed.  These barbers are artists. The precision with clippers and scissors makes for perfect, yes perfect haircuts.  Fathers bring their sons and all engage in spirited conversations. They were even nice to me as the token old white guy.  All the tools are gleaming and the barbers, keep them in tool chests. Have to admit, I loved being there. It was relaxed.  Andrew told me Scott the barber they have, had a corporate job, needed to change things up and took up barbering.  

Andrew and me after his clip.....

all for now

stay safe.

Duke of Chinnley

It was a lovely day yesterday and we took advantage of it for an early dinner outside at Tavern On the Main in Clawson.  Masked and glassed to read the menu. Had a great sandwich and an ice cold Blue Moon.  Drank beer outdoors a couple of times recently and admit it was quite refreshing. I should wear a mask full time with the glasses as it hides my multiple chins.  

Andrew and Katey came over yesterday for bagels along with Dickman and Shannon.  Needless to say, when they show up, it is loud, between them and their mother.  I have learned to try to interject comments but usually without success, but fun anyway.

Lots of families and dogs out walking with the sunshine.  Kids on bikes abound.  I wish I could summon the balance to ride.  One of my buddies, 86 year old Bill, was out with his two wheeler cruising thru the neighborhood too.  He seemed blissful and carefree.  Too many of the residents here choose to cloister themselves away and ignore the wonderful day.  I feel like I've been let out of a cage. 

I am shocked to hear of the many Americans refusing to accept the vaccines for Covid-19 when they are available. These drugs are not a political statement endorsing one party or another.   I believe these medicines are safe and will lead to better control of this condition.  I also believe that it will be with us for a long time and we will probably need shots annually.  If that is reality, I can live with it.  Sadly we have become a nation of independent souls that do not feel any obligation to their fellow Americans, only to their own whims and opinions.  No one likes shots.  I still cannot watch (big baby).  

We completed the miniseries Chernobyl on Saturday.  This is a dramatic enactment of a terrible nuclear accident that took place in 1986.  No happy ending.  An extremely disquieting set of programs.  It depicted the Soviet Union as a dark deceitful place with secrets piled on other secrets.  Jared Harris and Stellan Skarsgard and Emily Watson did masterful jobs in their portrayals.  I would not advise this for light viewing, but it tells the tale completely.

Going today to see if Jax Carwash can scrap, vacuum and wash off the winter's grime from our car.  You know when it's so bad you can't stand it anymore.  Have reached that point.  Its supposed to be another sunny and warm day today. Enjoy it.

all for now

stay safe

That's Fine Honey, whatever you like

Watching little kids run around with smiles and boundless energy is the way I want to leave the earth, with laughter and smiles.  Wonderful time with small kids yesterday at at the playground.  The smallest, Leo made countless circuits around the slide, climbing up the structure with feet and hands and knees to reach the top beaming in anticipation of traveling down the slide on his back with feet up for maximum speed, only to be caught by Mom at the finish. 

Men regularly tell their long term significant others "That's fine honey, whatever you like", especially when she suggests an activity or purchase or new furniture arrangement.  Is this a cop out because he is mentally engaged elsewhere or is he afraid to challenge her well thought out idea?  Or maybe it's true on face value.  Many of us, including myself will at times mentally run away because we are too lazy to think about more than the TV or mobile device.  In essence it's saying "I will do anything you like, just don't make me think". For me you could put this on a tee shirt or translate to Latin and emblazon it over the mantle.  I am guilty.

Going today for a visitation of my departed cousin Judith.  I will see folks only seen at now funerals and shake hands with her sons that I barely knew and am sure they will have no recollection of me.  My lovely wife will be kind and appropriate.  She always has the correct words.  That entire family of my youth has passed, mother, father and children.  I will get through it.

Making granola today (exciting life!) and going on a walking expedition with friend Janine tomorrow.  Katie Couric has improved on Jeopardy and Stephen Colbert is not as funny as when 45 was around providing mountains of material.  And James Taylor and I have the same birthday, how about that.  He is 2 years my senior.

all for now

no pictures today

stay safe

Maybe a Little Optimism

I start this today with some photos of the last year.  First is the "Iron Frog" spotted on one of my walks in the neighborhood.  Next is my favorite chips of all time.  The texture and saltiness is superb.  I could extoll the magic of these all day but alas, for the good of my health, must relegate the remaining half bag to the waste bin today.

Lastly pictured is our balcony from last year with all the greenery Judy planted shown in sunlight.  The plants are mostly perennials (discovered that I can no longer spell worth a shit) hence spellcheck corrections, yet another frustration of old age.  

 

I lost my eldest cousin on March 13th, Judith Ann Colbeck (Kish).  Most of the memories of her and her family have faded but I remember their home on Logan St. in Southwest Detroit well.  It was always smoke filled and they had a radio hanging on the wall that was a replica of a old time telephone with the hand held speaker.  Hockey was always on usually the Red Wings but anything would do as long as it was hockey.  My grandmother Lydia lived with them for a while and she would yell at the boys (my other cousins), "Mikey leave Jeeemy alone! "  That I can hear like it was yesterday.  Their mother Marge was a wonderful cook and always had something on the stove.  Grandma make home made noodles for soup.  When she was at it, there was not a horizontal surface to sit on or place anything on, counters, closet shelves anywhere filled with pans of drying noodles.  We boys would play hockey in the basement shooting tennis balls into the goal. When my sister Pam died in 1966, Judy comforted me and knew the pain I was feeling.  She told jokes over the phone to my aging mom and always made her laugh, something I always appreciated.  She will be missed by many.

Donating blood to the Red Cross today.  it seems that my blood is good for newborn babies due to a virus I never had and have no antibodies for.  This is really thrilling for me and I have no problem enduing the slight discomfort if it can help a newborn survive.  My pitch:  give blood if you can.

Well,  we have our second shots and our American Rescue checks are coming.  Our quiet, boring President is getting things done.  He has hired the right people and does not need all the answers popping out of his head.  He listens.  What a concept, listening,  

Turned 71 recently so I guess the next milestone birthday is 75,  Whew! that's at least a few years off.  The sun will shine in Berkey today, I am most pleased and guardedly optimistic, hope you are too.

all for now

stay safe

 
 

Trains of Thought

Don't really know where to begin today, waiting for the sun to come up and temps to improve.  Had some wonderful visits recently with some little people and their parents.  This photo is of me with Leo, the youngest guy of our friends Jeremy and Chalene.  He warmed up to me because I looked like his Papa and we quickly grabbed the shot.  Do you love the hat?  anything for a laugh.  He has 5 year old twin brothers and they came over for bagels.  One of the nice things about living in a smaller space is the cleanup when the chaos is over, can be completed in about 20 minutes.  Like all kids this age, they love the harmonica and little flashlights and our house keyboard.  They have wonderful smiley but exhausted parents.

This Sunday and Monday we visited Jon and Kelly in Grand Rapids and had fun with our wonderful grandsons Paxton and Everett and great conversations with their parents.  It was an active yet relaxing time with my buddy Everett falling asleep on me on the couch and of course, I complied to do the same.  Not really too bad a ride on a Sunday a little over 2 hours.  Next trip planning to visit the Frederic Meijer Gardens which is close.  I like restaurant finds.  Friend Jeremy said a place called Freddy's was a great casual restaurant.  An indeed it was, good burgers akin to Five Guys with thin cut fries and a special dipping sauce.  This place is originally from Kansas City, only locations are in western Michigan.  I would go back in a heartbeat.

At the old folks home they are finishing up with the second Covid-19 shot for all the residents that received the first one.  Hopefully it will go well.  Looking forward to a long walk with Harry today.  Did much walking yesterday with friend Janine and with Rose and Bob. First time together with this pair since the lockdown a year ago.  Conversation is a wonderful and insightful process.  Really missed it.  So glad to engage again.

all for now

stay safe

get outside and enjoy.
 

Metallica, Open real estate and Chick Corea

We watched Metallica perform on Stephen Colbert last night (streamed).  This is not necessarily my favorite style of music, lacking any subtlety with screamed lyrics. However these guys despite their advancing years were OUTSTANDING in this performance.  It was wonderful and inspiring to see real players of rock, yes rock music fully immersed in their craft.  You could see that Stephen was impressed after the performance when he said his good night. 

This photo is the 2021 version of me, a man with many chins and a drooping face in front of our hanging pots.  I am approaching 71 and suffer the many foibles of my age group,  However I thought that my head was fully populated with hair, white, but still present.  On one of my visits to Katey's to feed Apollo, I went into the bathroom and and positioned mirrors to see the back of my head. Much to my disappointment, I gazed upon a widening field of open scalp on the top.  It shouldn't bother me but was a humbling indication of the march of time. 

Musical giant Chick Corea left us recently.  It was him, Herbie Hancock and electric Miles that introduced me to modern music in my post-rock period.  I had all the Return to Forever albums and the lovely Light as a Feather record featuring Flora Purim on vocals.  But beyond electric music, this guy could play in many styles leading numerous collectives and with duets with Herbie and others.  Have tuned in to Pandora to his channel and found many more recordings by him.  Its making me think about music more, listening deeply to all the parts of the tune and the instruments.  

Shannon is over for the night and as you might have guessed, Beauty and the Beast is on for the umpteenth time.  It's always our first selection.  I really miss Jerry Orbach on Law and Order and hearing Lumiere sing remind me of that. 

Our apartment will be filled with little boys today.  Friends Jeremy and Chalene and sons are visiting this morning for bagels.  These guys are wonderful creatures with boundless energy and laughter.  Haven't really seen them since the lockdown began.  They truly make me smile.

Uncle Len is 90 today.  I will call him.

Hopefully we will have our 1400 bucks soon.

all for now

stay safe  

I Spent the night at Katey's....

 

She and her pals were going out for a birthday celebration and I was going to keep Apollo and Meatball company.  As per usual I indulged myself in bad pizza and programing that my wife would hate.  I learned from my last visit to not sleep on the couch in that the surface was too soft and my back would pay the price.  First off was a selection of episodes of Shameless, the Frank Gallagher opus about a complete screwup of a father and his collection of resourceful kids and their petty crimes and other mishaps and twisted relationships.  The eldest daughter holds up the group while Frank stays perpetually drunk. 

I try to learn about entertainers completely outside of my usual spectrum.  Takashi 69 is one of those.  He is an expletive spouting, rainbow haired Puerto Rican kid from Bushwick that Showtime decided to do a documentary about called Super villain . Apparently he is the newest thing and I watched a part of it completely baffled by the language and the context presented.  He seemed ridiculous to me screaming chaos,  but the fans loved it.

The documentary about Jeffrey Epstein shows him to be the absolute monster that he was as told by his many victims.  All of his cohorts, including Prince Andrew and Bill Clinton and others should be held culpable.  I have been willing to give the former president a pass on his past antics,  but his association with this narcissistic fuck is too much to forgive.  Epstein did indeed end his own life simply because he could no longer control the narrative.  

On a more inspirational note, One Night in Miami is the best film I've seen in a long time.  The portrayals of these African American icons was poignant and revealing. Leslie Odom sounded so much like Sam Cooke, it was eerie and the actor portraying then Cassius Clay had the tone, timbre and vocal affectations of the boxer down perfectly.  As an old white guy still grappling with real history of America, warts and all, suggest you see this one on Amazon.  The interplay between all the characters with Malcom X approached the truth that men of color have dealt with for many years.  

That's all the reviews for now.  We had the gang over for pizza, cake and mushroom lemon pasta yesterday afternoon.  Shannon loved it and Andrew and I watched the reboot of Good Eats with Alton Brown, the cooking scientist.  The birthday girl had a good time and enjoyed the food selections.  Another birthday past.  All is pretty good.

all for now

stay safe