Category: Positive Vibes

Silly Games

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Silly Games

 

Silly Games

 

D. S. Mitchell

No, Not Today

It’s another cloudy day in Grants Pass, Oregon. The morning news sounds just like last night’s news. Does this mean we are entering an overly long season of re-runs coming out of the Trump White House? It looks like the Orange One has given me enough time to play a game; maybe more than one. If you’re thinking the woman is sounding a bit crazy, you could be right. I need a break from the freaking asshole taking up space in the people’s house. I’m not in the mood to be serious today. I was going to write an in-depth, thought-provoking, political post on Trump’s “emotional” response to the actions of his buddy, Vladimir Putin., instead, I am going to play a game my mother taught me close to 60 years ago.

Rules Of The Game

Here are the rules of today’s game. I will open a dictionary at some random place and I will, from the two open pages, keeping the words in sequential order, write a story. Today’s story will center on a well-known politician and his daughter.  I challenge you to do it. It is harder than it sounds.

So, here we go. The dictionary I will be using is the one I keep on the shelf next to my desk in my alcove office. Everyday America English Dictionary, Edited by Ricard A. Spears, et al.  NTC (National Textbook Company) 1987.  Pages 130-131.

Daddy Thinks he Knows Best

Donald Trump dropped his  fountain pen on the desk, and asked, “What’s for dinner tonight?”

“Some form of fowl that Donald Jr, bagged when he was on safari in Texas,” Ivanka snickered.

“You are a fox,” Big Daddy Trump gushed, leering suggestively.

“Stop it, Daddy.”

“Do you know what fraction of the federal budget is being spent on Jr.’s security detail?  Some woman reporter asked me today, and I had no idea.  Do you know?”

“Oh, Daddy, don’t worry about such stuff.  Just say that information is TOP SECRET,  and if that ‘fake news’ lady asks again, you just tell her it’s, classified.”

“Of course, of course. You’re right, sweetie.  I have more power in my Truth Social finger than ANYONE else in the world!  Especially some ‘fake news’ reporter.”

“We should have that finger insured.  What if there’s a fracture?  It would be a disaster,” she said, bobbing her head up and down in self confirmation.

“Careful, Daddy, that bowl is very old and very fragile.  Michelle Obama called it historic. She said something about Dolly Madison.”

“Historic?” Trump repeated, simultaneously tossing the object skyward and catching it with his left hand.

“Daddy, please, stop juggling it. Stop it.”

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30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes

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30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

30 Ways to Honor Our Heroes On Memorial Day

Editor: Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died serving in the US. military, both in times of war and peace.

By Cate Rees-Hessel & Wes Hessel

 

Remember and Honor…

The current occupant of the Oval Office may think the military are “suckers and losers”, but we as a nation under God know differently. Our military gives their all for our country and we remember them this Memorial Day with heavy hearts and extreme admiration.

A Prayer of Thanks for Freedom

“Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious gift of freedom, the freedom to worship, to speak, and to live according to our conscience. On this Memorial Day, we remember with deep gratitude the brave men and women who gave their lives so that we might enjoy these liberties. Their sacrifice reflects the love of Christ, who laid down His life so that we might be eternally free. Help us use our freedom wisely, to serve others, seek justice, and reflect Your light in a world longing for peace. Comfort the families who have lost loved ones in service, and remind them that their sacrifice was not in vain. May we live each day with thankfulness and courage, honoring both their memory and Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Commemorate Before Sun-a-brate

Memorial Day officially ushers in the summer season despite the cooler weather. Here are some fun ways to celebrate this holiday. Let’s honor our veterans that have given their lives in service of our country, making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom…

  1. Attend a mass or service on Memorial Day – light a candle for a military member that has passed. What better way to honor our fallen service members? Pray for our men and women in uniform.
  2. Send a card or gift to a military person; those on active duty would love some home baked cookies – older veterans may welcome a visit or small gift. Let those who serve or have served know you care.
  3. Widows, widowers, and children of fallen soldiers might enjoy a present, also – a batch of cookies or a plant, perhaps.
  4. Memorial Day used to be called Decoration Day, so let’s decorate. Honor the graves of service members with flags or flowers. I even decorate our living room window.
  5. Red, white, and blue bunting, banners, and decor are great ways to get in the holiday spirit. Doors, patios, balconies, walls, and windows can all be decorated. I leave my patriotic decor up through Flag Day, July 4th, and Patriot’s Day.
  6. POW and MIA bracelets may be a thing of the past but a nice patriotic pair of earrings or necklace looks pretty for the holiday.
  7. Picnics and barbecues can be fun. Grocery prices are sky high thanks to Trump’s tariffs, try new economical recipes with less red meat – try grilling fruits and veggies. Keep food safe from warm temperatures, iced or cooled until time to eat salads and cold sandwiches.
  8. Parades, as well as outdoor concerts and films are free activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  9. Avoid sparklers or other fireworks by your self – they can cause very serious injuries. No one wants a trip to the ER – that’s no way to celebrate
  10. Veterans in nursing facilities might like a visit – make a new friend.
  11. Patriotic films can be found online, on streaming services, and at your local libraries.
  12. Many pools and water parks open Memorial Day weekend, providing the temperature is warm enough. Use a safe sunscreen (ones containing only zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are the best) and enjoy water play. Remember SPF lip balm, also. It’s fun to hit the beach, but check conditions and bacteria levels locally before swimming – do the same for lakes. Install a weather app on your phone for quick updates on air quality, temperatures, and storm warnings.
  13. Pay attention to boating safety if you decide to do some sailing. Keep keys on a floating chain, at least enough life preservers on for everyone in the boat, and a well charged cell phone in a waterproof case with you at all times.
  14. If it rains, an indoor picnic is just as much fun. Indoor grills are a great way to bring the outdoors inside. A movie with a military theme can be streamed for a fun afternoon.
  15. Check ingredients before allowing pets any of the celebratory fare. Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and chocolate are some of the foods toxic to our fur babies.
  16. Remember summer is a short season, so patriotic items are usually inexpensive. Some stores will put them on sale after Memorial Day, so you can stock up for the 4th.
  17. Take a walk in the park, hike, or bike ride – summer is finally here. Some cities have free or minimal fee bike rentals available. Enjoy some sunshine but don’t forget to use a safe SPF.
  18. Use the long weekend to clean out your garage or basement. Power wash your deck or patio, and outdoor furniture. It’s time to get everything season ready.
  19. It’s a great weekend to wash the car or the dog in the backyard, weather permitting.
  20. Start a vegetable and flower garden – fresh vegetables and fruit you grow yourself are nutritious, taste great, and rewarding. And who does not love the look and fragrance of beautiful flowers?
  21. Don’t forget the insect repellent – check websites like the CDC and Consumer Reports about the safety of the various active chemicals; I still like the Skin So Soft products by Avon, myself.
  22. If you have allergies to bug bites, food or the like, carry your EpiPen, and your inhaler if your asthmatic. Hotter temperatures can intensify reactions.
  23. Stay hydrated – water is important in avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
  24. Sunburn cream can be kept in the refrigerator for a nice cooling effect. Lipsticks, lip balms, and eye pencils are less likely to melt if kept cold, also. Toners are more refreshing when chilled, as well.
  25. I am addicted to indoor plumbing, so camping does not work for me, but if you are inclined to enjoy nature this way, keep safety first and foremost. Know where you are – carry physical maps and a compass. Most cell phones go out of range when far from civilization. Have provisions such as hand sanitizer, wipes, extra socks, antibiotic, and burn ointment and Band-Aids with you, as well as acetaminophen and water with you. You might want to carry a pocket size Lysol for those outhouses. Keep a cooler with ice for anything perishable to avoid dehydration and food poisoning. Nothing can ruin a trip more than an unprepared and unexpected injury or illness. S’mores are great, but bring clean metal sticks to use over the campfire. Respect nature by cleaning up your camp site. Consider a tree hanging shower pack. Personally, I feel a nice camper with a kitchen and bathroom inside at a camp site or a cabin on the campground is a bit more my way of roughing it. Cabins have indoor plumbing facilities; guess I am a hotel kind of girl.
  26. If you are traveling for Memorial Day, make sure your gas tank is full – carry a tire gauge, jumper cables, and Fix-A-Flat or the equivalent, as well as coolant and water in your trunk. Have transmission and brake fluid on hand, also. Check your vehicle’s oil and get it changed if necessary. Make sure your battery is well charged. Better safe than sorry, is my motto. Keep your motor club and insurance cards handy, too. Be extra cautious this year with Trump’s deportations. There have been American citizens caught in this horrific, racist web of lies.
  27. Many restaurants have outdoor patios to dine al fresco – search the Internet for money saving coupons and offers. There may be chalkboard specials as well.
  28. Festival season has begun. Wear your comfortable shoes and carry a light jacket for weather fluctuations. A bag chair or other portable seating is a must, also. Check policies before bringing a cooler. Many venues might require that you carry clear purses or tote bags – leave anything that might be problematic at home or locked in your car, out of sight. Carry a charged portable charger with you. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, and keep cash and credit/debit cards on your person.
  29. Enjoy your loved ones, include your fur babies, but make sure pets are permitted at your outdoor events. Check local leash laws, and bring a travel water bowl for Rover or Fluffy, when attending events close to home. When traveling with animals, pack a small favorite toy, disposable litter pan (for cats), and baggies of food. Furry friends likely won’t need clothes in warm temperatures but a cute neckerchief never hurts. Make sure dogs are on a leash and have vaccine information handy. Remember, if you are warm in your skin, imagine how hot they must be in their fur – keep pets hydrated and cool. Bring a cold wet washcloth in a bag or container.
  30. As a final suggestion, carry a few disposable bags, hopefully sustainable ones, for any trash you may accumulate. Find a garbage can or take the rubbish home to dispose of – never litter or just leave debris behind.

Let’s take care of our planet; God bless America and our service members that actually have made and do make America Great. Let’s all resist the Donald’s military parade on June 14th- we are not a dictatorship we don’t grovel before wanna be dictators or honor them with military parades.

Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

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Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

Looking Good Despite Trump’s Bad Economy

 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

We are all suffering from Trump’s bad economy these days: tariffs, rising gas and grocery prices and the cost of other essentials skyrocketing, make it more difficult to budget my shrinking dollar. It’s important to look our best, despite economic woes. So here are some suggestions for looking good in a bad economy:

  1. Drug store brands and store brands can often work as well as more expensive skin care products, but read the labels carefully before buying.
  2. Avoid cosmetics that are made in China – they are unregulated. Some well known name brands are making their products there, so buyer beware. There are also products from these companies that use made in the USA or elsewhere but are assembled in China – I personally avoid these, as well. Certain reputable firms have some products made in other countries, but still have China made products as well – check each item individually. Labels can read made in PRC, which means Peoples Republic of China. Products of the Republic of China (ROC), otherwise known as Taiwan, are OK, though.
  3. Look for cruelty free cosmetics, and labels that say paraben, sulfate, phthalate, and artificial fragrance-free. Do your due diligence research before purchasing and keep your receipts in case you miss something in the labeling. Search for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, collagen, niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol or its substitutes, or salicylic acid in skin care lines.
  4. Don’t be afraid to seek out samples. Some online retailers offer free shipping, also.
  5. Be cautious of SPF in skin care items – sunscreen is very important but certain ingredients can be unsafe. The FD only considers two – zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – as “generally recognized as safe and effective” (GRASE).
  6. Check expiration dates on clearance cosmetics, as well as the protective coverings. Often the outside packaging might look a bit worse for the wear but the seals are intact.
  7. If a pedicure or manicure are not in your budget, opt for polish changes – most salons will trim or file nails with that service. Most salons have free massage chairs, many have cuticle oil and lotion. Buy a good pair of cuticle nippers and a cuticle pusher to groom at home before visiting your nail tech. Most salons offer cuticle grooming for a nominal add-on service when getting false nail fills. If you opt to do your own nails, file in one direction working toward the center. Look for online coupons and Groupon deals. I might add to be cautious – I have had many a great Groupon deal but have been burned once. Be cautious – check out the business thoroughly that is offering the special; use the Better Business Bureau website and online reviews before buying.
  8. Thrifting and resale can save a lot of money on clothing, but look closely for wear and tear – avoid any garment with tears or stains. A good steam iron and clothing pill shaver can be an enormous help in keeping your wardrobe fresh. Use your clothes dryer to refresh dryable items between washings. Make sure buttons are secure and well fastened. Stretched out items can be somewhat revitalized with some spray starch. Trimming loose threads and frays with a sharp pair of scissors can extend the life of clothes and accessories. Shoe polish and the use of a good cobbler shop can make footwear last longer. “Magic erasers” type scrubbing pads on casual and athletic shoes with white soles can keep them looking clean and newer.
  9. Take good care of your teeth. Review dental plans very carefully before choosing one. Read labels on whitening products carefully – certain budget products can, as I previously warned, be made in China.
  10. Vintage finds can be very fashionable but remove shoulder pads, stirrups, and the like before wearing. Update the look with modern accessories.
  11. Clothes swaps or giveaways and free cycling can be very helpful for tight budgets.
  12. Accessories like costume jewelry and scarves are a great way to update your look.
  13. Budget hair salons can do a good job when you communicate with the stylist. Explain exactly what you want and take one or more photo(s) along of the hair style you want.
  14. Condition and shampoo often; use styling products to keep hair cuts fresh. At home hair color is fine, just pay attention to the shades on the box and condition. Do a patch test before coloring and don’t leave it on longer than called for. A professional bottle of color from the beauty supply store (without activator) can be used as a filler for over the counter colors. Use ash tones to avoid brassiness and a good purple shampoo and/or conditioner.
  15. Prescription glasses are expensive, so opt for frames that are versatile and durable. Use mildly abrasive toothpaste with a soft cloth to reduce scratches on the lenses. Never put your glasses down with the lens touching any surface – this can cause scratching. Keep a case and microfiber cloth handy.
  16. Make your own skin care products – recipes are available online. I use salt, sugar, and cooking oil to make body scrubs, mixed to a little dryer than a slurry consistency. Outdated yogurt and beyond their prime fruits also make great face masks.
  17. Non-aerosol body sprays are less pricey than actual cologne and perfume. They are often lighter in fragrance, subtle, and pretty. Stretch them by adding just a bit of alcohol as they get used up. I buy a large bottle of my favorite Jean Nate and pour it into a purse size spray bottle with just a bit of alcohol mixed in. Keep the fragrance cool in the refrigerator for an extra refreshing splash.
  18. Mix and match separates can create many different outfits for one low cost.
  19. Fine jewelry is expensive but can be a good investment. I personally don’t care for lab created diamonds, but they are a money saver and technically are considered diamonds. I would prefer a smaller natural diamond myself, but to each their own. Other gemstones, both precious and semi precious, are equally as lovely as diamonds in a different way. Opt for natural, untreated, unheated stones. 925 sterling silver, ten or fourteen carat gold are decent quality options when eighteen carat gold is not within your budget. I have heard of nine carat gold, also, but am not familiar with it. Do your research before buying fine jewelry. Online purchases can be OK but ask for certification in writing. Vintage jewelry can be beautiful and unique with a better price tag. Take your finds to a jeweler to be tested for authentication. Jewelry stores will often test and clean jewelry as a courtesy.
  20. Opt for higher quality disposable razors as a grooming tool. The cheaper ones often leave hairs behind – you won’t get as close of a shave. Decent grade tweezers are also a better buy.
  21. Loss leader introductory pricing on spa services can be intriguing, but make sure only one treatment is needed to see results. That intro price for one visit may require very costly follow up visits to be successful. Again, do your homework.
  22. At home beauty and grooming devices might take longer for results to be seen than salon treatment but once you own the device, multiple uses are free of charge. Check reviews and safety info to avoid issues.
  23. Using split payment services like Klarna can make purchases a bit easier to budget. When applying for credit, if possible, opt for cards that offer no interest payments for an extended period of time. One of our main credit cards gave six months of no interest upon opening our account.
  24. Beauty schools often have inexpensive clinics and sometimes offer free services for models that are willing to take part in classroom demos.
  25. Good grooming is not expensive and it’s the most important element in looking good. A daily bath or shower, shampoo, and shaving are integral in making a nice appearance. Put a smile on your face as well – a pleasant look is beautiful in any economy.

I’ve Got 25 MORE Reasons to Make You Smile

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I’ve Got 25 MORE Things To Make You Smile

I’ve Got 25 MORE Things To Make You Smile

By D.S. Mitchell

I am back at the computer making my second post to my Calamity Politics blog, today.  Before I started this blog, I worried that I wouldn’t have enough to scream about, but I’m finding that I could probably do half a dozen posts a day related to the Trump Administration, and its basket of corruption and outrage.  But I thought, before I start my rant on the collapse of the progressive agenda. I should deliver something positive and uplifting.

So, here are twenty-five things to make you smile:

  1. Blowing the wrapper off the straw.
  2. Sunsets over water
  3. Wraparound sunglasses
  4. The Science Channel
  5. Kite flying contests
  6. The Muppets
  7. Astronauts
  8. Blowing the wrapper off the straw
  9. Winning at Monopoly
  10. Astronauts
  11. Blowing the wrapper off the straw
  12. Barhopping
  13. The sound of your lovers voice
  14. The clatter of skis being loaded
  15. The rumble of a train as it passes
  16. Walking in the rain
  17. The imagination of a six year old
  18. Margaritas at midnight
  19. Blowing the wrapper off the straw
  20. Volunteering for a cause you believe in
  21. The smell of a new car
  22. Roller skating
  23. Memories of your first grade teacher
  24. A good book
  25. Daddy’s wisdom

I know this Thursday distraction did little to take your mind off the continuing chaos in the Trump White House, but if it gave you a couple minutes of respite, that’s a good thing. Have a gem of a day and never forget to blow the wrapper off the straw.

Join the New Resistance

Calamity Clown/AKA D. S. Mitchell

You Might Just Be a Woman of a Certain Age, Once Again

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You Might Just Be a Woman of a Certain Age, Once Again

You Might Just Be a Woman of a Certain Age, Once Again

 

Editor: Thank God, we can take a five minute break from the Orange One. Hail, Cate! Thank you.

By Cate Rees-Hessel

  1.  If you ever used Dep or Aqua Net, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  2. If you refer to your hair style as a “do”, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  3. If you own a flip phone, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  4. If Jean Nate is your go to fragrance, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  5. If you had to remove shoulder pads from half your wardrobe, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  6. If you ever had a plastic rain bonnet in a plastic container in your purse, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  7. If you ever drank from a collapsible cup, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  8. If you know what rag curls are, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  9. If you set your hair on frozen orange juice cans, or beer cans, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  10. If Great Lash is your go to mascara, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  11. If you were ever a candy striper, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  12. If you know that bunny ears have nothing to do with rabbits, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  13. If you know what Emerson College is, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  14. If you have heard of Ned Nickerson, Bess, George, or Hannah Gruen, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  15. If you had white patent leather gogo boots, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  16. If you know what a gogo girl is, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  17. If you have LPs of the GoGos, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  18. If you know what an LP is, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  19. If you ever had your daily sprinkle, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  20. If you know who Midge and Alan are, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  21. If your Skipper doll grew boobs, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  22. If you know you can dance to it, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  23. If you know the Bangles are not a set of bracelets, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  24. If you had a Spirograph or Light Brite, you might just be a woman of a certain age…
  25. If you had a Rainbow Brite doll, you might just be a woman of a certain age…

Women of a Certain Age-January 2025

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Women of a Certain Age-January 2025

Women of a Certain Age – January 2025 

By Cate Rees-Hessel

  1.  If you call Lean Cuisine a TV dinner, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  2. If you know who Papa Bauer is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  3. If you are no longer young but still restless, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  4. If you ever wore curlers under a scarf to the A&P, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  5. If you ever shopped at the A&P, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  6. If you ever wore a Peter Pan collar, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  7. If you know what a Peter Pan collar is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  8. If you ever wore Mary Janes and know that Mary Jane was Lucy’s sidekick, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  9. If your hair was ever as big as Texas, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  10. If you are a fan of Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  11. If you can name the tune that starts out “Hey, Hey”, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  12. If you ever carried a plastic rain bonnet in a small pouch in your purse, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  13. If you ever owned a collapsible drinking cup (mine was pink), you might be a woman of a certain age…
  14. If you feel undressed without a hat, pearls, and gloves, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  15. If you call fat-free milk, skim milk, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  16. If you still use a Day Runner and physical address book, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  17. If you ever baked a tunnel of fudge cake for the holidays, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  18. If you ever owned Sarah Coventry jewelry, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  19. If you know who Sarah Coventry is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  20. If you call flight attendants, stewardesses, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  21. If you call administrative assistants, secretaries, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  22. If you know what razor company’s name says “Merry Christmas”, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  23. If you ever had a pet rock, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  24. If you ever did a Zoom do, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  25. If you ever received a Whitman Sampler for Valentine’s Day, you might be a woman of a certain age…

He Still Speaks to Us

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He Still Speaks to Us

MLK, Still Speaks to Us

By Wes Hessel & Cate-Rees Hessel

 

A True Leader

Monday, January 20th, we honor a great, charismatic leader who led a huge multitude of committed followers – and no, we are not talking about Donald Trump. The real man celebrated today is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the most visible champion of the civil rights movement.  The men who were referred to as the “Big Six” were also key in the work: James Farmer, A. Philip Randolph, Roy Wilkins, Whitney Young, and John Lewis.  But Dr. King, or MLK, as he is often referred to, was the center of the fight for freedom for all. We hear the echoes of truth in his quotable phrases and speeches.

The Bible He Actually Read – And Lived…

The basis of what Dr. King strove for is rooted in the Scriptures he preached from – the Bible.  That foundation is apparent throughout his words of wisdom, but particularly in these:

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

“But I know, somehow, that only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.”

“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve.  You don’t have to have a college degree to serve.  You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve.  You only need a heart full of grace.  A soul generated by love.”

And one paraphrased from his namesake, reformist Martin Luther:

“Live like Jesus died yesterday, rose this morning, and is coming back tomorrow.”

“And I say to you today my friends, let freedom ring.”

Muster The Mustard Seed

MLK pointed out everything should proceed from faith:

“Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase.”

“I have decided to stick with love…hate is too great a burden to bear.”

“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.”

“We must learn to live together as brothers…or perish together as fools.”

“Forgiveness is not an occasional act, it is a constant attitude.”

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

“Nonviolence is absolute commitment to the way of love. Love is not emotional bash; it is not empty sentimentalism. It is the active outpouring of one’s whole being into the being of another.”

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24 Things to be Thankful For

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24 Things to be Thankful ForJust because Trump was re-elected we still have much to be thankful for.

24 Things to be Thankful For

By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel

A Sad Day

Thanksgiving 2024 was a very sad day for so many of us. It’s unbelievable that Donald Trump has once again been elected president of the United States. But despite that despicable result, we still have many things to be thankful for. I was heartbroken hearing a favorite and familiar hymn being sung by right-wing conservative fundamentalists, when Trump received the number of electoral votes to win the election.

Blasphemy

I do still question the legitimacy of this outcome, and intend to fight back by joining in any and all peaceful protests against “The Donald” and JD Vance. As a devout liberal Christian of Jewish heritage, I found the singing of this hymn for Trump’s “win” to be blasphemous.

In This Storm

I do find comfort, however, in the lyrics of one of my favorite Christian contemporary songs by the very talented CCM recording artists “Casting Crowns”. For almost the past two decades “Praise You in this Storm” has brought me comfort. I am not sure where this band stands politically, but the music brings me hope. “Although my heart is torn, I will praise you in this Storm”. I do believe that God is in control, but I will always vehemently disagree with anyone supporting the orange monster, even those I care about.

24 Reasons

But there are things to be yet thankful for in the holiday season. I want to offer encouragement to our saddened world this holiday season, so here are my twenty four things to be thankful for in ‘24…

  1. I am thankful for loved ones, including my furbabies.
  2. I am thankful that while we celebrate the conclusion of this year that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are still in office.
  3. I am thankful for the Lincoln Project.
  4. I am thankful that we can still put a turkey on the table this Thanksgiving before we have one in the White House again. My spouse feels calling Trump a turkey is an insult to the mean, cantankerous, stupid fowl, but it’s a far less insulting term than the ones I usually reserve for the Donald.
  5. I am thankful for Harris-Walz, and the honest campaign they ran.
  6. I am thankful for Democrats and our fight to retain democracy against the “dictator from day one”.
  7. I am thankful for certain Republicans like Liz Cheney, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and others that actually voted against Trump.
  8. I am thankful for Mary Trump.
  9. I am thankful for feminist pride.
  10. I am thankful for every woman that did not die from miscarriages and lack of health care before the extremist “anti-abortion” laws, and I am broken hearted for those who perished at the hands of the tyrant Trump.
  11. I am thankful to currently live in a free democracy.
  12. I am thankful for the right to vote, and hope to continue living in our nation as I pray it remains a free country.
  13. I am thankful for necessary government programs that benefit the disabled, children, and seniors, but will I be able to say this next Thanksgiving? I hope so, but I am not holding my breath.
  14. I am thankful for those willing to fight for our freedom – our military will never be “suckers” or “losers”, no matter what the immoral orange haired monster calls them.
  15. I am thankful that I live in a state with a very strong Democratic governor.
  16. I am thankful for the many women that I have stood with over the years that fought for equality – we still won’t go back.
  17. I am thankful for COVID vaccines that President Biden made available after the Donald wrecked our economy and cost thousands to lose their lives with the mishandling of the pandemic.
  18. I am thankful the pandemic is over and we can finally manage COVID, thank you again to the Biden administration, as well as Dr. Fauci and all those who worked tirelessly to slow down and stop the pandemic.
  19. I am thankful for my neighbors that have immigrated to our nation in hopes of a better life or to be with family, but will they be deported?
  20. Although I am not diabetic, I am thankful for insulin being capped at $35 for those who do need it.
  21. I am thankful that no one’s cats or dogs were actually eaten – that rumor was started by a racist crazy man whose lemmings voted him unbelievably into office again.
  22. I am thankful that I am a childless cat lady that proudly voted for Kamala Harris and will continue to show my love for children and furbabies in my own ways, joining the many women who although are not mothers per se, are vital and strong without the approval of Mr. Vance.
  23. I am thankful I don’t use any of JD Vance’s hair products – I thought Brill Cream went out in the 1960’s.
  24. I am thankful that I won’t be purchasing blasphemous books that I simply can’t refer to as God’s Word signed by Trump (the Bible in no way needs his endorsement), or the bevy of Trumpy souvenirs this holiday season. My fireplace just isn’t big enough for MAGA hats and hideous gold sneakers, or worse yet Trumpy Bear (and burning those hats, sneakers, or “bear” would be toxic)…

In Conclusion

I would be very thankful to see Trump sentenced to prison for his 34 felonies this week. That would be a holiday miracle to benefit the greater good. Yes, our hearts are certainly torn up for sure, but we must not give up hope. Happy Trump-free holiday season for everyone. In closing, thanks to our current Biden Harris administration for the second year in a row the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner cost less than in previous years. Be blessed and stay safe everyone…

 

Cosmo, The Talking Crow Comes To Town

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Cosmo, The Talking Crow Comes To Town 

Introducing Cosmos. The talkative crow from Oregon.

Cosmo, The Talking Crow Comes To Town

Editors Note: While I was scrounging around looking for a Thanksgiving story I came across the story of Cosmo the Talking Crow that I reported on back in 2021. Cosmo (or maybe it’s Connie) brought a smile to a lot of people’s faces. So here, once again, is Cosmo’s story of a bad Thanksgiving vacation.

 

Oregon State Police called in on a foul mouthed crow 

By D. S. Mitchell

Down State Noise
Normally, the goings on in Grant’s Pass, Oregon, never gain the attention of the big city folks of Portland, Seattle, or LA.   Last week however, we here on the west coast got a bit of a smile as we learned about the antics of a rogue, rough talking, four letter word tossing, crow.  You read that right.  A crow. As the story goes, out of the blue a friendly, albeit attention seeking crow, showed up in town.  According to reports the first place the crow was spotted was on top of the Planet Fitness building, where he would talk to people entering and exiting the facility. Drawing both laughter and a raised finger or two.
Moving On
Apparently dissatisfied with the Planet Fitness digs our talkative and colorfully articulate bird looked around for friendlier faces.  He seemed to find what he was looking for when he found the Allen Dale Elementary School in late November.  It didn’t take long before he was the resident mascot. The news became public when Naomi Imel, an assistant at the school called in the story to the Oregonian on 12/09/2021. Lizzie  Acker 503-221-8052, lacker@Oregonian.com was the featured reporter who followed up on the feathered friend story.

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You Might Be a Woman of a Certain Age

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More of the Famous, “You Might be a Woman of a Certain Age”. . . 

More of "Women of a Certain Age."

More of the Famous “You Might be a Woman of a Certain Age”…

By Cate Rees-Hessel

  1. If you ever had clear plastic enclosed furniture and got stuck to it while wearing hot pants, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  2. If you wore Charlie perfume when it originally came out, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  3. If you know Youth Dew Bath Oil came before the perfume, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  4. If you know what Youth Dew is and who still makes it, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  5. If you ever used Tinkerbell cologne, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  6. If you ever used Tinkerbell wash-off nail polish, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  7. If you had a little doll in a plastic perfume bottle, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  8. If you ever had a Dawn doll, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  9. If you ever had a Chrissy doll, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  10. If you had an original Alan or Midge doll, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  11. If you remember Growing Up Skipper – yes, her boobs grew (see the ”Barbie” movie for a demonstration), you might be a woman of a certain age…
  12. If you know who Spike the dog is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  13. If you know who Dennis Rodman is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  14. If you know what Terry Bradshaw’s occupation was before he became an actor, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  15. If you had day of the week panties, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  16. If you are ready to throw your Spanx at Sir Tom Jones, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  17. If you are ready to throw your Depends at Sir Tom Jones, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  18. If you are ready to throw yourself at Sir Tom Jones, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  19. If you ever had a beeper, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  20. If you watched Saturday morning cartoons growing up, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  21. If you ever ran through the sprinkler as a child, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  22. If you ever caught fireflies and put them in jar with blades of grass and a metal lid with punched holes, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  23. If you ever went berry picking, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  24. If you remember Mr. Ed or Here’s Lucy, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  25. If you ever had a metal glider on your porch, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  26. If you had a wicker laundry hamper with a flower accent, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  27. If you ever had a rubber bathing cap with a brightly-colored flower, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  28. If you ever had wax lips or bottles with a sugary beverage in them, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  29. If you ever chose your Christmas presents from the Sears Wish Book, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  30. If you ever shopped at Sears, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  31. If you ever shopped at Radio Shack, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  32. If you ever shopped at Zayre or Venture, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  33. If you ever ate a breakfast brownie from a box, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  34. If you ever had a Swanson frozen dinner with the metal tray, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  35. If you ever had a little tub of ice cream with a flat wooden spoon, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  36. If you ever had orange drink in a miniature milk carton, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  37. If you or your child ever had a baby crib with an animal applique, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  38. If you ever had an original Spirograph, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  39. If you ever had an original Lite Brite, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  40. If you ever spent any Saturday nights at Blockbuster, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  41. If you know who the Great Pumpkin is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  42. If you ever saw a flashing blue light right after hearing, “Attention K-Mart shoppers…”, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  43. If you ever consumed Sugar Babies, Bazooka, Mary Janes, Lemonhead, or Chico Sticks, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  44. If you ever called a radio station to play your request and dedication on the air, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  45. If you know who Casey Kasem is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  46. If you know who Wolfman Jack is, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  47. If you know what musical House of WAXX is from, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  48. If you ever met the Flintstones or the Jetsons, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  49. If you ever smelled Jovan Musk Oil, English Leather, High Karate, or Aqua Velva, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  50. If you know Mikey hated everything, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  51. If you ever had Jiffy Pop, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  52. If you ever owned an avocado green electric fry pan, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  53. If you ever repaired a run in your stocking with clear nail polish, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  54. If you ever wore a Frank Mazzendrea design, you might be a woman of a certain age…
  55. If you ever wore an original Norma Kamali garment made of sweatsuit fabric, you might be a woman of a certain age…