You say you saw an Eagle catch a fish from the lake on # 12? And deer cross the course and play in the sand traps?

We saw bob cats in the mesquite bushes in Texas. You spoke of the blue birds and wanted houses for them.

I know the ducks, geese, herons, and egrets flew around your home. Gosh Gary, it was fun to be with you and hear of your sightings.

You loved Tennessee, the Carolinas, Texas, Florida, but most of all home. It was the friends there and here that you loved most of all.

You played for a quarter, a dime and sometimes a dollar. You would play in the rain, cold, wind, and best of all in the sunshine.

Gosh Gary, the times you had with us will be treasured. We enjoyed every outing, the fun, the laughter, and you.

We will miss your caps, your clubs, your putters, and drivers. We will miss your bright eyes and smile. and one more game with you.

John Casey 4/28/96

Governors election in 2022

Oklahoma’s two term State Superintendent of Public Instruction announced on March 16, 2021 that she is switching her party affiliation from Republican to Democrat in new Years gubernatorial election, Joy Hofmeister, stated that Governor Kevin Stitts is running Oklahoma into the ground, He, Joy states, has targeted local school boards for student mask mandates. Stitts is a follower of Trump who issues his own Mandates to his lock-step followers.

Joy, (Her name seems to be appropriate), is supporting education, quality healthcare, and rural infrastructure.

Democrat Oregon Treasurer , also announced he will run for governor.

| implore Democrat’s to support all Republicans running against Republican Governors who are up for election in 2022.

R lican Governors running for election in 2022.

Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, lowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Marida Islands, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, Vermont, West Virginia.

Governors election in 2022 Oklahoma’s two term State Superintendent of Public Instruction announced on March 16, 2021 that she is switching her party affiliation from Republican to Democrat in new Years gubernatorial election, Joy Hofmeister, stated that Governor Kevin Stitts is running Oklahoma into the ground, He, Joy states, has targeted local school boards for student mask mandates. Stitts is a follower of Trump who issues his own Mandates to his lock-step followers. Joy, (Her name seems to be appropriate), is supporting education, quality healthcare, and rural infrastructure. Democrat Oregon Treasurer , also announced he will run for governor. I implore Democrat’s to support all Republicans running against Republican Governors who are up for election in 2022. Republican Governors running for election in 2022. Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Marida Islands, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, Vermont, West Virginia.

Rebels and Grant withdrew his troops. The next day his army crossed the MS River to Bruinsburg, MS.

On May 1 there was a clash of armies at Port Gibson and again on May 12 at Raymond. The Rebels fell back to Jackson. On May 14, the Union army captured Jackson. On May 16 the armies would clash again at Champion Hill.

The battle of Champion Hill started at noon with Logan’s division (Casey’s) leading the first charge. The hill changed hands 3 times before the battle ended with the Rebels withdrawing towards Vicksburg. The battle of Champion Hill was the bloodiest battle of the Vicksburg campaign. The Rebels lost 4,000 men, the union casualties were 2,500.

On May 17, the Union army routed the Rebel Army at the Big Black River where Grant captured 1700 prisoners. On the 19th of May the 31st IL reached Vicksburg.

I’ve been to Vicksburg three times since 1958. My last trip was in July, 1989 and I was looking for information on Levi Burnside Casey. My search took me to where the 31st! camped near Ft. Hill on June 22, 1863.

The Rebel fortification at Ft. Hill was nearly impregnable. A plan was made to dig a mine under the Rebel position a mere 75/150 yards away. Thirty coal miners from Southern IL helped dig the tunnel at the approach to the Third Louisiana Redan.

The dig began on June 23, 1863. The tunnel was 5 ft high, 4 ft wide and 45 ft long. It was finished by noon on June 25, 2200 pounds of dynamite was placed in the mine and the explosives set to go off at 3:00 P.M

At 3:00 nothing happened, but at 3:30 sharp, a terrific blast blew away many of the Rebel troops. The 31st went into the crater. But to their credit, the Rebels reeled but did not fold. The fight lasted until darkness and the Yankees withdrew.

Early in the morning of June 26th, Casey who had just been promoted to brevet Major led the 31st ack into the pit. The Rebel positioned themselves on the far wall and began shooting the trapped Union men. The Rebels also threw hand grenades into the pit and one of them exploded at Casey’s feet, mortally wounding him. Capt (b.Major) Levi Burnside Casey died on June 29, 1863.

The names of the 7 killed and 27 wounded men from the 31*t are engraved on a tall grey monument at the site of the battle of the crater. A grave is marked for Levi at the Vicksburg Union Cemetery. There is also a tall grey monument for Captain Casey in the Mt. Olive Cemetery near Vienna in Johnson Co. IL.

I walked on the land where Casey walked and because of that, I have a better understanding of a revered relative, Levi Burnside Casey. John R. Casey 435 % Bluff Street Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646 —- email: jrcl134@gmail.com

Green apples are my favorite fruit. I like them sour, sometimes almost bitter, hard, and crunchy. I especially like them with salt.

Early June apples in Southern Illinois were usually Transparents or Lodis, both green when green and light yellow when ripe. Transparents are smaller than a Lodi; both have fragile skin and won’t last long without refrigeration. They make great apple dumplings and pies, but to Me they are great fresh with salt.

My slivia glands will start working just at the thought of their taste. I was living in Michigan one early June and I became home sick. I knew I would not be going home and green apples were on my mind and their taste was imagined but not quenched.

I had written earlier that I would love to have some green apples. I also made a telephone call to tell mom that if she would send some to me, it would be a good thing. She said she would send some.

A week went by and my taste had subsided a bit. A small brown box came in the mail and the postage cancellation stamp was several days before the package arrived — about a week.

When the package was opened out poured the smell of overripe transparent apples picked from an orchard in Southern Illinois. Out poured the love inside each swiveled up little green apple in that box. Mom had had carefully selected perfect green apples and inside a note that said, “I love you and miss you too!”

I never told my mom that only two or three of the apples were fit to eat. I suspect that if every apple in that box of apples were rotten to the core, my taste would have been that good taste I remembered about a little green apple.

Every year in early June, my taste of green apples comes back and my memory of my mom also returns.

John Casey 11-9-2001

Green Apples

Green apples are my favorite fruit. I like them sour, sometimes almost bitter, hard, and crunchy. I especially like them with salt.

Early June apples in Southern Illinois were usually Transparents or Lodis, both green when green and light yellow when ripe. Transparents are smaller than a Lodi; both have fragile skin and won’t last long without refrigeration. They make great apple dumplings and pies, but to Me they are great fresh with salt.

My slivia glands will start working just at the thought of their taste. I was living in Michigan one early June and I became home sick. I knew I would not be going home and green apples were on my mind and their taste was imagined but not quenched.

[had written earlier that I would love to have some green apples. I also made a telephone call to tell mom that if she would send some to me, it would be a good thing. She said she would send some.

A week went by and my taste had subsided a bit. A small brown box came in the mail and the postage cancellation stamp was several days before the package arrived — about a week.

When the package was opened out poured the smell of overripe transparent apples picked from an orchard in Southern Mlinois. Out poured the love inside each swiveled up little green apple in that box. Mom had had carefully selected perfect green apples and inside a note that said, “I love you and miss you too!”

I never told my mom that only two or three of the apples were fit to eat. I suspect that if every apple in that box of apples were rotten to the core, my taste would have been that good taste I remembered about a little green apple.

Every year in early June, my taste of green apples comes back and my memory of my mom also returns.

John Casey 11-9-2001

When You Lose someone Part of Your heart is also Lost. Hopefully Your heart will grow again, but Your heart won't ever be exactly as it was before.

Gone too, are so many other Qualities so much Admired: Zest for doing things Charm, gaiety, and humor Genuine humility Ability to Lift up my heart and an euphorious grin

a Cry of Oh No, welled up in me, and over and over. I seemed unable to Accept Your Loss.

In time, a New Life — a happy one — may Come — a World apart from what I had — but Which will be fulfilling — I await.

I have not Written before on purpose. To Could only send out thought waves, for to speak or write them would devalue them.

You are someone very special with a brave heart. J 12/10

Perhaps as many as 100,000 Grizzly’s roamed the west. Now there are down to perhaps 1,000. The men took to stalking the bears in squadrons. They killed at least 43 of them during the journey.

Indians describe the bear: A powerful, secretive creature that knows how to walk backward, stepping in its own tracks when it is aware it is being followed. It sleeps for 6 months in the winter.

They were amazed at the fleet Antelope, the bear-like strong Badger, the Mountain Goats, the hundreds of thousand of Buffalo, billions of pigeons, numerous woodpeckers and hawks, eagles, strange prairie dogs, and red and silver salmon.

It is said that they averaged eating 9 pounds of meat per person per day, but it may have been more like 3 pounds. They ate berries, roots, fruit (lots of plums) and fish when they could catch or trade for them. Mainly, they ate deer, elk, moose, and buffalo; also antelope, beaver, horse, bear and dog. They were fond of goose, duck, and any game birds. They had soup in a package that everyone hated. They ate (had to) everything that was remotely edible. They used oil and fat from game, especially bear fat, and some whale oil or blubber. They made their own salt when they were camped at Fort Clatsop. They ran out of whiskey and tobacco.

What am I amazed at?

1. The numerous encounters with Indians and how well they managed to handle them. Lewis killed one Indian — a Blackfoot.

2. Writing almost one million words to describe their journey all written with quill

pens that had to be dipped into ink for almost every word they wrote.

The Corps itself — the unity of command and the obedience of the men.

The wonder of the land, the Rockies, the Great Falls, Volcanoes, geysers, etc.

The animals, especially the Grizzly bears mountain sheep, and antelopes.

The ability to withstand extremes in weather, water boundaries, cliffs, etc.

Their food and adaptation to food/fish/foul/roots, etc. that they shared and ate.

The clarity of their mission to find the Pacific and then return.

PANANEY

[yellow legal pad] Regions – Gun ownership: New England – 27%. The rest of the country – 45%. Montana – 66.3%; Wyoming – 66.2%; Alaska – 64.5%; Idaho – 60.1% [margin: Eric – Hunting is big in these states]. Massachusetts – 14.7%; New Jersey – 14.7%; Rhode Island – 14.8%; Hawaii – 14.9%. [margin: Skeet & ?] Republicans are more likely to own a gun. – Conservatives. Claim self-defense – as the reason. 3,385,000 people died in the US last year. * 40,000 from firearms [margin: looks high]. 649 mass shootings – 3,200 mass shooting victims. [Last year] 5,000 died from AIDS; 41,000 from auto accidents; 37,000 from falls; 668,000 from heart disease.

Nearly 40 million guns purchased legally by Americans in 2020 alone. 2019 – 28 million guns. Pistols #1 – 82.7%. Rifles #2 – 60.8%. Shotguns #3 – 50.4%. 39% own a home gun. 22% of women. 45% of American men own [a gun]. 40% of women. Live in a household with a gun. Personally owned: men – 39%, women – 22%. Covid-19, riots, etc., the murder of George Floyd – have contributed to increased gun ownership. Owned guns by ethnicity: White 34.3%; Hispanic 28.3%; Asian 19.4%; Black 25.4%. Ownership by ethnicity & population: Whites – 34.3%; Hispanic – 28.30%; Blacks – 25.4%; Asian – 19.4%.

HAGAR doesn’t understand why some of his friends are so silent, the stuffed teddy bears especially. He tries to get them to respond by pulling at their ears and eyes.

He will find a silent friend perched on the back of couches and chairs just begging to be held in Hagar’s mouth, or so he thinks.

Likely, he will drag them around by hanging on to one of their limbs with his incisors. When he is tired of them he will leave them, not where he found them. Missing eyes and scarves may turn up later.

HARGAR has considered getting into the Olympics.

He has practiced jumping techniques — all four feet off of the ground at once-from a standing start. Often he does these jumps for what seems like minutes.

Hagar has also learned the hop, step and a jump maneuver. He is conscious of style points.

He is good at the 15 yard dash after he has done something wrong

He is not good in relays, he won’t turn loose of the baton

HAGAR would make a great competitor on any reality show.

Survivor for one, Last Comic dog Standing, So You Think You Can Dance, Swamp Dog, and The World’s Hot Dog Eating Contest would be a cinch for Hagar.

Hagar is not into drama, and he won’t turn on Judge Judy’s show because there’s too much shouting. He would be great in a black and white film. Snow Dog Adventures.

the Aori/Be re, 4 ide, doy

Hagar is 150 + pounds of love and trouble, and he is always charming. Hagar was a big puppy. He is coal black with strong pointed ears and a thick black tail. He is a handsome dog. People stumble forth in normal misery, but not dogs. Hagar is not set back by yesterday’s scolding or worried about tomorrow. Now is his enjoyable life.

This magnificent canine knows when a friend visits him. He’s simply happy to see them and he shows it. Maybe we know we are also animals, with our musk and habits, voices and expressions. There is a language between heings. When he meets me he jump starts his muscular body in gleeful contemplation of .» .p in the garden for a game of stick, keep away, race or hide and seek. He particularly likes the latter game when it’s dark even though he doesn’t know he’s black. He wins at all games and laughs.

Of all the doubts in your life, Hagar’s love of you is one thing you never have to question. You can rely on straightforward unmasked feelings… He does not have a tangled past or oversized ego. If we are lucky, we love what we love in part because the object is worth the effort. He is.

Hagar lives with Asta. She got him as a small puppy. He is a French Shepherd but he thinks he is a person. They live in a wood frame home located in a small nursery with trees, plants, flowers and ponds. It’s a terrific place to live.

The first time Hagar experienced snow he was exuberant. Hagar was only six months old when he experienced his first snow. Asta opened her back door and Hagar gleefully dashed outside. His paws slid out from under him and he slipped off the porch into the cold wonderful snow. He barked his satisfaction and began a jumping, twisting, turning jaunt in the stuff. He took a bite of it and his face became mustached white. Hagar, just grinned, and took off in a mad dash. Snow was his wonderful new discovery. He made a snow angel, of sorts, as he flopped on his back and begin rolling about, emitting low growls of joy. He was invigorated and happy.

I will skip parts of Hagar’s early life, but I can assure you that it was quite a life. He got sick at times like kids do and had to go to his doctor. Hagar also got into mischief because he did not mind well, but he loved Asta and anyone who would visit him. Hagar thought everyone who came to the house or nursery came to see him and would greet them with excitement and joy. Everyone immediately showed their excitement too, sometimes with a little intimidation.

Asta called him lots of names, like delinquent, bad and good boy, and goooood boy and baaaaaad dog. He would hang his head when he was called a bad boy, but it would only be for a very short time. At times he had to be put on a leash and he reluctantly accepted his punishment.

Asta has a little red pick-up truck that is used for hauling anything at the nursery. It’s a work truck and it’s neat. It has a stick shift. Hagar gets to ride in it when Asta lets him and they often go places outside the nursery. Hagar sits upright and looks out the window just like any big black dog. He also likes the wind in his face. The red truck is also a place that Hagar is put when he is ‘ACTING UP’ around people who come to the nursery. Asta wants to make sure that Hagar doesn’t disturb or perhaps hurt someone if he jumps on them when he greets them.

Hagar was a teen-ager when he first got to sit in the truck. He was happy he was with Asta and was gong someplace, even if only to the other side of the nursery. However, when someone comes to the nursery to visit Asta or see plants and trees, Hagar is placed in the truck for the visitor’s safety. Hagar then bounces and yelps and barks and pleads to be let out. Asta ignores him and he becomes quiet. Once when someone came to the nursery he created a ruckus and in the truck goes Hagar. Did I say the truck was running? It was, as Asta was planning to take it to another place in the nursery. Hagar’s moving around in the cab of the truck created a commotion. During his antics he moved the gear shift and the truck starts moving backwards to Hagar’s delight. “Your truck is moving,” the visitor exclaims to Asta. Asta turns and sees the truck backing into the sugar canes that border her nursery. It was a concern but the canes stopped the moving truck. As Asta approached the truck, Hagar was smiley and happy for the attention he had caused. He earned several demerits for his behavior and Asta had another story of her beloved Dog.

HAGAR

HAGAR (The Horrible — not really) is a big black fury dog with a long tail and sharp pointed ears that stick up. He thinks I am his brother (he’s 5 and I am 78) and loves to play games. He laughs easily, has a mock growl and runs and jumps to greet me when I visit him.

HAGAR’’S favorite truck is a red pick-up — preferable 4-door.

Hagar favors a stick shift model and likes the ease of starting the vehicle without a key. He does not use a rear view mirror or wear a seat belt. He will bark at anyone coming

close to the truck, and does not honk the horn. He has no driver’s license either. Who

would suspect him to be a truck driver?

HAGAR’S favorite toy is a rope, diameter of 1 inch, and likes braded models. If the rope is not coated, Hagar will coat it. His highest rope toss is 7 feet and his longest rope toss is 10 feet. His records are set indoors, only objects limit his tosses.

He will fling a rope (or toy) in all directions, usually your way when you have a drink or food in your hand. Hitting you is his object, but he likes to see you duck and drop your food. UMMM.

Hagar will eat specially prepared and expensive food and he likes grated cheese sprinkled on top. He likes green, yellow, red, and dark colored food. Some say he is color blind but that is a ruse. He can tell a watermelon from a cantaloupe.

When Hagar’s outdoors and finds a rabbit bone he will stop his activity and devote time t crunching the bone. He will, when finished, look for more bones before resuming his activity.

HAGAR is training to be a logger. He likes medium and large logs. He carries them, but he has not learnéd to stack them. If you say, “HAGAR, WHERE IS YOUR STICK,” he will immediately head for his log storage area. There is his stick.

HAGAR loves to meet people. He rushes up to them as though they were his favorite rich cousins, greeting them with grins and wags. Ifa cousin is less than five foot tall they should brace themselves and when Hagar meets them they should not carry toys or anything in their little hands. “

HAGAR is learning to count. He started with logs, but he really likes to count small things. He can count pills really good. He does not sort them by color or size, Just rolls them around onthe floor after they have dropped out of their containers.

If Hagar could read the labels he might want to get acquainted with doctors and prescription shops so that he could get new supplies now and then, like what do you take after eating plastic combs, brushes, phone cases, etc AN

HAGAR doesn’t understand why some of his friends are so silent, the stuffed teddy bears especially. He tries to get them to respond by pulling at their ears and eyes.

He will find a silent friend perched on the back of couches and chairs just begging to be held in Hagar’s mouth, or so he thinks. Likely, he will drag them around by hanging on to one of their limbs with his incisors. When he is tired of them he will leave them, not where he found them. Missing eyes and scarves may turn up later.

HARGAR has considered getting into the Olympics.

He has practiced jumping techniques — all four feet off of the ground at once-from a standing start. Often he does these jumps for what seems like minutes.

Hagar has also learned the hop, step and a jump maneuver. He is conscious of style points. He is good at the 15 yard dash after he has done something wrong. He is not good in relays because he won’t turn loose of the baton

HAGAR would make a great competitor on any reality show. Survivor for one, Last Comic dog Standing, So You Think You Can Dance, Swamp Dog, and The World’s Hot Dog Eating Contest would be a cinch for Hagar.

Hagar is not into drama, and he won’t turn on Judge Judy’s show because there’s too much shouting. He would be great in a black and white film. Snow Dog Adventures.

Hagar was my best friend ever. I was his.

Hagar meets a stranger one time. They become his friends forever. When they come to his home or park he welcomes them with a greeting bark. He’s glad they came.

He wants to get close to them and when he does he looks into their hands — they may have a treat or something for him, maybe a stick.

Hagar responds to his name and may let his new friend pat him, but most of all he wants them to play with him. He likes to play stick. Off he will run, picking up a stick as he does and will look back to see if his friend is following. If they are, he will head for the upper meadow of the park and hop and jump about, beckoning them to join him. Hagar’s friends will get tired playing stick before he does and he will slow down and let them pat him and maybe he will get a rub of appreciation of their friendship.

HAGAR WOULD LOVE TO VISIT an OCEAN AND BEACH

Hagar’s adventuresome spirit would kick in when he visits the ocean. It doesn’t matter about the weather either. Sand would feel good to his paws. He would chase, but not catch a shore bird. He would wade and might swim in the ocean and taste the salt in the water. He would find funny looking creatures, like a crab, and get pinched on his nose. He might find sunglasses, hats, or money.

He would dig holes in the sand looking for something that he smelled. He may like to be covered up (almost anyway) with sand. He would have lots of room to play stick, Frisbee or running as fast as he can and almost out of the sight or sound of his person. He would splash in the puddles, bark at the visitors and make friends with everyone and the dogs he sees. He would not want to leave, ever.

Places Hagar would love to visit A farm A zoo

Things to do

Have a dog buddy Eat a Twinkie

Go on a boat ride

Take a soapy shower

Jump ina lake

Be a competitor in

Racing, jumping, stick fetching…

Hagar is having the time of his life. He’s a big time player. He loves fresh wonders. He provides a sense of deeper understanding of an animal who is one of us

Hargar — Escape and other games

After a session of fetch that pleases the tosser more than the fetcher, Hagar the big black dog of the greenery nursery turns into an escape artist. Escape is Hagar’s favorite game.

He heads to one of the places he has to escape the presence of two-legged pursuers. Hagar is especially proficient at Escape at or near dark because he blends in with the shadows, trees and bushes around and in the nursery grounds. If it wasn’t for his wagging tail, Hagar would go unseen.

Of course, neighbor dogs congregate at one of the perimeter fences at the nursery and can’t contain their excitement to see the dark knight, Hagar. Their barking and his tail wagging gives Hagar’s hiding places away. The briars, sticker bushes and thick vines catch on the clothing, or worse, the bare skin of the seekers, further protecting Hagar from a short leash. When found and leashed, he resists before he gives up the Escape game he loves so much.

Jumpy little dogs who accompany plant and flower customers to the nursery, are in awe of Hagar. Buffered by false egos, the doggies are likely to yap-yap at Hagar before scurrying behind or between the legs of those who stand on two feet. Uh-OH! Hagar is quick to bend down to almost the level of the 30 or so pounders, his front legs almost on the ground and looks the little pooches in the eye, all the while wagging his tail, inviting them to play or bark in a softer tone. Usually, the tiny ones shut up even though encouraged by Hagar’s pleadings.

Another game of Hagar’s is King of the Hill. He fairly bounces onto a hill (Dirt mound for plants and flowers in the nursery) and defiantly challenges a two-legged one for the hill he occupies. He growls in mock delight and looks as though he might snap if they come closer. His grin is wide and his eyes dance with excitement and when the two- legged one gives up, Hagar might jump on another hill, show body language and caste his eyes their way for another challenge. He is The King of the HILL.

Other games Hagar Loves

Snow Angels /snow mustaches Fetch — boards, limbs, Frisbees Hide-and-seek

Tug of War

Mechanical/digital devices examination Lap racing around the pond

Cane break excursions for animals Chasing animals and his own tail Driving trucks

Rope shredding

Garbage ruffling

When your lows come it tests your character. Lashing out at others will not relieve your pain, disgust, or anger. Try another way to regain your spirit and look at the positives in your life.

Remember how much you mean to others. \ Remember how much they mean to you.

«| played soft ball, and baseball, almost every day. Also, ping pong, tennis, cork ball, whiffle ball, bottle caps, sock ball, flag foot ball, are there any others?

When | played my clothes, uniforms, and socks were filthy. Mom would wash them for me If | did most of the work and that’s what | did. One year our American Legion Team, based in Metropolis, received a ay large shipment of packages. In the packages were genuine uniforms of the

\ue /Cubs Major League team that they wore the year before. It was arranged by our manager. He contacted the players to come to the Legion and pick out a uniform. | lived about 30 miles from Metropolis and could not get there for the uniform distribution, but they saved one for me. It was #13 that “Hammering Hang Sauer“Wore. A giant of a man, at 6 foot 3 inches he who was the Gubs fight fielder (He would later be traded to the Cardinals) His uniform was the only uniform left.

| got lost in it the first time | tried it on at home. We were told not to make any alterations that cut the uniform. That left a dilemma, because everything that was part of the uniform needed trimmed/cut down to my size. | was five six and weighed 140 pounds. Mom went to work on the uniform shirt first. It came down to my ankles. She made folds where needed and sewed them to fit me, including the sleeves. Next she measured the pants and did a similar fold and a sew redo,and the finished product looked good. Socks got the needle too. | looked rather good with 2 my heavy wool uniform that would hold heat very well. The next game | sweated profusely, about two gallons, | recon. Lwas-a bit slower and a catcher. | was pleased with having a uniform of someone | learned to admire. | actually-get-te $6é him make a shoe-string catch of a sinking line (7*~ ,

drive to left field at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. He never looked up until Be

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or a wrinkle where it was sewn. Mom got my praise. an

Hadi Seu ©' 3" – 24th

When your lows come it tests your character. Lashing out at others will not relieve your pain, disgust, or anger. Try another way to regain your spirit and look at the positives in your life.

Remember how much you mean to others.

Remember how much they mean to you.

| played soft ball, and baseball, almost every day. Also, ping pong, tennis, cork ball, whiffle ball, bottle caps, sock ball, flag foot ball, are there any others?

When | played my clothes, uniforms, and socks were filthy. Mom would wash them for me If | did most of the work and that’s what | did.

One year our American Legion Team, based in Metropolis, received a large shipment of packages. In the packages were genuine uniforms of the Cubs Major League team that they wore the year before. It was arranged by our manager. He contacted the players to come to the Legion and pick out a uniform. | lived about 30 miles from Metropolis and could not get there for the uniform distribution, but they saved one for me. It was #13 that “Hammering Hank Sauer” wore. A giant of a man, at 6 foot 3 inches He was the Cubs right fielder (He would later be traded to the Cardinals) His uniform was the only uniform left.

| got lost in it the first time | tried it on at home. We were told not to make any alterations that cut the uniform. That left a dilemma, because everything that was part of the uniform needed trimmed/cut down to my size. | was five six and weighed 140 pounds. Mom went to work on the uniform shirt first. It came down to my ankles. She made folds where needed and sewed them to fit me, including the sleeves. Next she measured the pants and did a similar fold and a sew redo and the finished product looked good. Socks got the needle too. | looked rather good with my heavy wool uniform that would hold heat very well. The next game | sweated profusely, about two gallons, | recon. | was a bit slower and a catcher. | was pleased with having a uniform of someone | learned to admire. | actually got to see Sauer make a shoe-string catch of a sinking line drive to left field at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. He never looked up until he was even with the Cardinals dug out along the left field side.

| didn’t mind turning in the uniform all spic and span with nary a tear or a wrinkle where it was sewn. Mom got my praise.

| played soft ball, and baseball, almost every day. Also, ping pong, tennis, cork ball, whiffle ball, bottle caps, sock ball, flag foot ball, are there any others?

When | played my clothes, uniforms, and socks were filthy. Mom would wash them for me If | did most of the work and that’s what | did.

One year our American Legion Team, based in Metropolis, received a large shipment of packages. In the packages were genuine uniforms of the Chicago Cubs Major League team that they wore the year before. It was arranged by our manager. He contacted the players to come to the Legion and pick out a uniform. | lived about 30 miles from Metropolis and could not get there for the uniform distribution. They saved one for me. It was #13 that “Hammering Hank Sauer’ wore. A giant of a man, at 6 foot 3 inches He was the Cubs right fielder (He would later be traded to the Cardinals) His uniform was the only uniform left.

| got lost in it the first time | tried it on at home. We were told not to make any alterations that cut the uniform. That left a dilemma, because everything that was part of the uniform needed trimmed/cut down to my size. | was five six and weighed 140 pounds.

Mom went to work on the uniform shirt first. It came down past my knees. She made folds where needed and sewed them to fit me, including the sleeves. Next she measured the pants and did a similar fold and a sew redo and the finished product looked good. Socks got the needle too. | looked rather good in my heavy wool uniform that would hold heat very well. The next game | sweated profusely, about two gallons, | recon. | was a bit slower and a catcher. | was pleased with having a uniform of someone | learned to admire.

| actually got to see Sauer make a shoe-string catch of a sinking line drive to left field at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. (Cardinals vs Reds double header). At a dead run he bent over and snagged the ball at his shoe tops and never looked up until he was even with the Cardinals dug out along the left field side.

At the season’s end, | didn’t mind turning in the uniform all spic and span with nary a tear or a wrinkle where it was sewn. Mom got my praise. | got the memory.

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Hank Sauer, A Sinking Line Drive – I played soft ball, and baseball, almost every day. Also, ping pong, tennis, cork ball, whiffle ball, bottle caps, sock ball, flag foot ball, are there any others? When I played my clothes, uniforms, and socks were filthy. Mom would wash them for me If I did most of the work and that’s what I did. One year our American Legion Team, based in Metropolis, received a large shipment of packages. In the packages were genuine uniforms of the Chicago Cubs Major League team that they wore the year before. It was arranged by our manager. He contacted the players to come to the Legion and pick out a uniform. I lived about 30 miles from Metropolis and could not get there for the uniform distribution. They saved one for me. It was #13 that “Hammering Hank Sauer” wore. A giant of a man, at 6 foot 3 inches He was the Cubs right fielder (He would later be traded to the Cardinals) His uniform was the only uniform left. I got lost in it the first time I tried it on at home. We were told not to make any alterations that cut the uniform. That left a dilemma, because everything that was part of the uniform needed trimmed/cut down to my size. I was five six and weighed 140 pounds. Mom went to work on the uniform shirt first. It came down past my knees. She made folds where needed and sewed them to fit me, including the sleeves. Next she measured the pants and did a similar fold and a sew redo and the finished product looked good. Socks got the needle too. I looked rather good in my heavy wool uniform that would hold heat very well. The next game I sweated profusely, about two gallons, I recon. I was a bit slower and a catcher. I was pleased with having a uniform of someone I learned to admire. I actually got to see Sauer make a shoe-string catch of a sinking line drive to left field at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. (Cardinals vs Reds double header). At a dead run he bent over and snagged the ball at his shoe tops and never looked up until he was even with the Cardinals dug out along the left field side. At the season’s end, I didn’t mind turning in the uniform all spic and span with nary a tear or a wrinkle where it was sewn. Mom got my praise. I got the memory.

Hank Sauer, A Sinking Line Drive –

| played soft ball, and baseball, almost every day. Also, ping pong, tennis, cork ball, whiffle ball, bottle caps, sock ball, flag foot ball, are there any others?

When | played my clothes, uniforms, and socks were filthy. Mom would wash them for me If | did most of the work and that’s what | did.

One year our American Legion Team, based in Metropolis, received a large shipment of packages. In the packages were genuine uniforms of the Chicago Cubs Major League team that they wore the year before. It was arranged by our manager. He contacted the players to come to the Legion and pick out a uniform. | lived about 30 miles from Metropolis and could not get there for the uniform distribution. They saved one for me. It was #13 that “Hammering Hank Sauer” wore. A giant of a man, at 6 foot 3 inches He was the Cubs right fielder (He would later be traded to the Cardinals) His uniform was the only uniform left.

| got lost in it the first time | tried it on at home. We were told not to make any alterations that cut the uniform. That left a dilemma, because everything that was part of the uniform needed trimmed/cut down to my size. | was five six and weighed 140 pounds.

Mom went to work on the uniform shirt first. It came down past my knees. She made folds where needed and sewed them to fit me, including the sleeves. Next she measured the pants and did a similar fold and a sew redo and the finished product looked good. Socks got the needle too. | looked rather good in my heavy wool uniform that would hold heat very well. The next game | sweated profusely, about two gallons, | recon. | was a bit slower and a catcher. | was pleased with having a uniform of someone | learned to admire.

| actually got to see Sauer make a shoe-string catch of a sinking line drive to left field at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis. (Cardinals vs Reds double header). At a dead run he bent over and snagged the ball at his shoe tops and never looked up until he was even with the Cardinals dug out along the left field side.

At the season’s end, | didn’t mind turning in the uniform all spic and span with nary a tear or a wrinkle where it was sewn. Mom got my praise. | got the memory.

Haunted Alton, Illinois – Troy Tayloy Ghost investigator

The mound builders Elijah P. Lovejoy Abraham in Alton

The Alton Penitentiary

The Confederate Prison eye Small pox epidemic Sunflower Island Prout book D The ghost of David Sparks the mysterious Lady In Black Cale

Alton’s Gentle Giant ~~ The murder of August Mayford

S. Glen Young & the KKK watfat Charlie Birger & the Shelton Gang oo ae dig Frank “Buster” Wortman a Dough Legends of the Hartford Castle

Kidnapping of August Luer

James Earl Ray – assonated M.L. King, Jr.

Paula Sims and murderer of her two daughters Harriet Haskel – ghost of Mont@&cello Seminary Haunting of Melton School

Deaf Bill – unburried for 60 years —

The McPike Mansion ~ eaddevytee Salvont Sxrasd the Franklin House ~

The Piasa – Pere Jacques and Louis Joliet, explorers «sr The Mounds of Cahokia

Illiniwek Indians.

Lewis & Clark – 3/10/04 Explorers

Haunted Alton, Illinois – Troy Taylor Ghost investigator The mound builders Elijah P . Lovejoy Abraham Lincoln in Alton The Alton Penitentiary The Confederate Prison Small pox epidemic Sunflower Island The ghost of David Sparks the mysterious Lady In Black Alton’s Gentle Giant The murder of August Mayford S. Glen Young & the KKK Charlie Birger & the Shelton Gang Frank “Buster” Wortman Legends of the Hartford Castle Kidnapping of August Lure James Earl Ray, M.L. King, Jr . Paula Sims and murderer of her two daughters Harriet Haskel – ghost of Montecello Seminary Haunting of Melton School Deaf Bill – unburried for 62 years The McPike Mansion the Franklin House The Piasa – Pere Jacques and Louis Joliet, explorers The Mounds of Cahokia Illiniwek Indians. Lewis & Clark – 3/10/1804 Explorers 12 foot skeleton – Demon, Santa, etc. Mineral Springs Bootleggers

Haunted Alton, Illinois – Troy Taylor Ghost investigator

The mound builders Elijah P. Lovejoy Abraham Lincoln in Alton The Alton Penitentiary The Confederate Prison Small pox epidemic Sunflower Island The ghost of David Sparks the mysterious Lady In Black Alton’s Gentle Giant The murder of August Mayford S. Glen Young & the KKK Charlie Birger & the Shelton Gang Frank “Buster” Wortman Legends of the Hartford Castle Kidnapping of August Lure James Earl Ray, M.L. King, Jr. Paula Sims and murderer of her two daughters Harriet Haskel – ghost of Montecello Seminary Haunting of Melton School Deaf Bill – unburried for 62 years The McPike Mansion the Franklin House The Piasa – Pere Jacques and Louis Joliet, explorers The Mounds of Cahokia Illiniwek Indians. Lewis & Clark – 3/10/1804 Explorers 12 foot skeleton – Demon, Santa, etc. Mineral Springs Bootleggers

The original page will appear here.

BP is high today — 154. 9:30 Am. ✓ again Soon. ✓ an SR Services — I took all of my Pills today.

My Struggles Continue; however, my determination to improve health and Enjoy Life has never been stronger. Set-backs are Common, unexpected, time-Consuming and Costly. [Bad Putts and bad Putters.] I have smaller and doable projects which got delayed. I am trying to Join Senior Services plus use their wellness (gym-Like indoor) Center, plus engage an independent personal trainer to improve strength, stamina and weight gain. Used gym Twice weekly. Members are not required to eat Cooked meals in the dining area. [margin: I heard they were dropping memberships due to heavy demand. I asked [my] Sister in my class to recommend me.]

Garden of the Gods — 207 miles from Alton. Shawnee National Forest in Southern IL. [too much for me] 45 miles from Vienna by Car. Alton to Vienna … 91 to Alton …

Hello, my name is John Casey. I live in Alton on Bluff Street in a modest apartment. February 1st was my son’s birthday. He lives in Boston. I went to bed at 7 PM. I was exhausted with the day’s activity and needed a rest. I knew a winter storm was coming. My normal bedtime is 9:30 – 10:00. I awoke at 6 AM. Errands had been cancelled for the day. I turned-on the TV. The storm was the news. I watched some of it before getting up. The National News on my go – to – channel had a short segment about health care workers who were stressed out due to CO-VID and other health issues to a point many of them were considering resigning or quitting their jobs due to it taxing their own health. It’s 10 AM and there are no car tracks in the street due to the snow covering. I don’t mind being alone but could not erase the memory of the high percentage of caregivers experiencing dilemmas caring for patients. I am one of them. I’m 81. My battle with my own health and the number of caregivers who have helped me as I struggled keep my hope and spirit alive has been important to me. They were and are lifesaving efforts. I have an appointment to see a doctor next Tuesday. I look forward to it and hope I won’t need to go back soon. I am a writer and have prepared notes and issues to cover with my doctor. She has been very helpful to me and I appreciate her very much. One of my hobbies now (it replaced playing golf) was painting rocks with sayings or names, dates, events… and giving them away. First, I used them in my garden, then to line paths to my apartment. I gave vendors at the Farmers Market a rock that recognized their goods. They were a hit.

It was muggy hot in central India when Staff Sergant, Joe Henkhaus, wrote a letter to his younger brother and sister-in-law back home in Bethalto, IL. The letter was written June 6, 1945 and post marked June 8, 1945. June 6, 1944 was D-Day.

The Army Air Force was a new separate branch of the American military forces in 1945. Joe, who had enlisted, was likely hand selected to be in this important branch as air became a new theatre of the war, especially bombing.

Germany surrendered to the Allies in early May, 1945, about two months prior to the letter Joe wrote. The Army Air force had begun Bombing German cities by daylight, using medium bombers, the B-29s. They did their job and shorted the war in Europe.

He wrote that it was so hot where he was stationed in Central India that any physical exertion would result in sweaty garments and he took off both his military undershirt and is long sleeved shirt, so they would dry quicker. He also mentioned that he dreaded the required rifle target practice to keep sharp, but he knew the importance of being ready just-in-case. Obviously he had been in many encounters/excursions/missions against the Axis forces. He had earned 64 points and needed 85 to be eligible for early release and return to the U.S. He didn’t get them. Joe Henkhaus’s letter hinted that his secret work was on the B-29 modification necessary to carry the huge and enormously heavy A-Bomb. He prophesized the bombing in the Pacific and called it another place.

From a base in the Pacific Ocean a modified B-29 was selected to carry and drop an Atom bomb on Hiroshima, Japan on August 6, 1945. (Two months after Joe’s letter was written) Three Days later, August 9, 1945, another Atom Bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, Japan. On August 15, 1945 Japan surrendered to the Allied forces, thus ending WwIL

In late 1945 Joe came home. He was only 23 years old. His days were numbered though. He had a large tumor on the right side of his head that was inoperative at that time. He died in 1946 and is buried in St. Joseph’s cemetery in Alton.

His memory is guaranteed through his family. His military career was important and his work helped end the war earlier than expected. He was a humble young man and an uncommon hero, like tens of thousands of heroes of WWII.

409

Submitted to The Telegraph personally and encouraged them to use and / or write their own story, which they did.

I researched more information on the A-Bomb, weight and some of the people involved, including Tibbets, the pilot on the first bomb, who lived in St. Louis and was from Illinois.

I gave all of it to Mick.

It was her second serious relationship. The first one lasted four years. The second was a class reunion marriage. He and her had graduated together and dated a few times. The reunion was their 20th. They had been a couple and went their own ways until each lost their first partner. The why-not marriage was a mistake for both of them and after 14 years it ended. She got the house. She was not looking for another trial marriage.

She was thankful that the dog was hers and that each had agreed to a free reign on their separate accounts, bank and credit cards. Each had been an uninvolved partner. When they became a couple it was all about compatibility and when they split it was all about incompatibility.

PSST! WANNA HEAR A SECRET?

The story behind the story is GOss72 From here on whispering about each of them was at first speeding through town from one eager gossip to the next. Was there an act of revenge? Who started the story? What would be the outcome after the split? Of course she had left town in ahurry. Someone said her dog was with her and she had agrin on her face. You could almost hear her laugh. someone said.

From this moment the tale takes wings. No one remembers where he was and where she was going.

(Of course, this has to stay just between us.)

ee i oe 6

It was her second serious relationship. The first one lasted four years. The second was a class reunion marriage. He and her had graduated together and dated a few times. The reunion was their 20th. They had been a couple and went their own ways until each lost their first partner. The why-not marriage was a mistake for both of them and after 14 years it ended. She got the house. She was not looking for another trial marriage.

She was thankful that the dog was hers and that each had agreed to a free reign on their separate accounts, bank and credit cards. Each had been an uninvolved partner. When they became a couple it was all about compatibility and when they split it was all about incompatibility.

PSST! WANNA HEAR A SECRET?

The story behind the story is oss7# From here on whispering about each of them was at first speeding through town from one eager gossip to the next. Was there an act of revenge? Who started the story? What would be the outcome after the split? Of course she had left town in ahurry. Someone said her dog was with her and she had agrin on her face. You could almost hear her laugh. someone said.

From this moment the tale takes wings. No one remembers where he was and where she was going.

(Of course, this has to stay just between us.)

sa be Oe oe

It was her second serious relationship. The first one lasted four years. The second was a class reunion marriage. He and her had graduated together and dated a few times. The reunion was their 20th. They had been a couple and went their own ways until each lost their first partner. The why-not marriage was a mistake for both of them and after 14 years it ended. She got the house. She was not looking for another trial marriage. She was thankful that the dog was hers and that each had agreed to a free reign on their separate accounts, bank and credit cards. Each had been an uninvolved partner. When they became a couple it was all about compatibility and when they split it was all about incompatibility. PSST! WANNA HEAR A SECRET? The story behind the story is GOSSIP. From here on whispering about each of them was at first speeding through town from one eager gossip to the next. Was there an act of revenge? Who started the story? What would be the outcome after the split? Of course she had left town in a hurry. Someone said her dog was with her and she had a grin on her face. You could almost hear her laugh. someone said. From this moment the tale takes wings. No one remembers where he was and where she was going. (Of course, this has to stay just between us.) Artist: Norman Rockwell – Chain of fools – Saturday Evening Post March 6, 1948

ren

Here We Go

Tears welled up in my eyes, burst, and ran down my cheeks as I read page after page of my mother's history written by her eighth and last child, my sister, Mary Ellen Davis. Mary Ellen, the youngest of a three daughter, five brother family, had compiled an amazing legacy of Edith Opal Burton Casey, herself, the youngest of a five daughter, four brother family of George and Lizzie Burton. The dates and some of the names were blurred somewhat, but my memory was sharp and clear.

My mom was not a heroine in the manner of a Joan-Of-Arc, but she was worthy of a well-written and well-documented history of her people and her life. Although more narrative would have embellished her history, the consistency of the love and admiration expressed by everyone who contributed to the story splashed my life with enjoyment and understanding of a very pretty "red- headed" woman who touched her world and made it better.

Now, I'll write a few words, try to portray accuracy and attempt to keep perspectives real. Sometimes my experiences were adventures, sometimes mundane. Here goes a random of glimpses of a past. Please excuse the out-of sequence recalls.

MY NOSE WAS GONE.

Snot and blood soaked my snow wetted brown jersey glove held firmly by my left hand to my face as I fairly busted in our back door to the kitchen. I yelled, or bleated for help! My mom was in the living room visiting with, I think, her sister, my aunt Etta Berry, and a neighbor, Wilma Conroy. I was about eight. It was in 1948 or 1949.

The 5 to 7 inch snow the day before cancelled school (thank goodness I did not have to trudge the 2.1/2 miles up hill to the one-room, unheated school, and almost 3 miles back, also up hill back home) and sent me and many of my friends to the slope behind our home in Tunnel Hill, IL. After breakfast, we had managed to construct a 3-4 foot snow jump for the competition that would take place on the long sloping hill on Coy McCuan's old strawberry patch. The sled run was long and the jump was near the middle when our speed would be the highest. If successfully negotiated (hanging on to the sled) a sledder could go all the way to the steeped creek bank. On and on we went breaking the snow, slicking up the run and navigating the jump. Sometimes we aborted the jump at the last moment and crashed harmlessly in the deeper snow. We called this, "chickening out."

Lying prone, belly down, on the sled, | believed I could stand the belly whopper landing and go further than anyone. It was about 10 a.m., and on my # 5 run I hit the jump perfectly and the waxed sled runners gave a little when it hit the run below the jump. It picked up speed and I headed for the creek some 40 yards away. The sled eased over the creek bank and it was astride an ice caked, smooth log leading to the frozen creek. The descent was steep and the center metal point of the sled crashed into the ice. I slid off of the sled and crashed face first into the jagged ice of the creek. The exhilarating feeling of accomplishment present moments before rapidly dissipated into pain and anguish. I had just lost my nose. I knew it. I climbed back up the bank, my gloved left hand clutching the remnants of my nose and heading home. Perhaps the nose could be sewn back on.

The little crowd of competitors saw me bolt for the house in a run. I was going home to mother – quickly. Flash forward – to the house.

When mom reached me she took my hand and slowly lowered it and said, " my, my." She walked me over to the kitchen sink, poured a little water from the every present teakettle on the wood cooking stove, added a dipper full of water from the white water pail and sloshed a wash cloth in the water. Holding me by my left shoulder she wiped the snot, blood and drying tears away.

High Noon 1957 Gary Cooper (Sheriff Will Kane) / Grace Kelly (His wife)

Do not forsake me, Oh my darlin’ Wait, wait, along The noon train will bring Frank Miller If I’m a man I must be brave And face that deadly killer Or lie a coward, a caravan coward Or lie a coward in my grave Oh, to be torn twixt love and duty S’posing’, I lose my fair-haired beauty Look at that big hand move along nearin’ high noon He made a vow while in state prison vowed It would be my life or his’n I’m not afraid of death but, oh what will I do if you leave me? Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’ You made that promise when we wed Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’ Although you’re grievin’ I can’t be leaving Until I shoot Frank Miller dead Wait along, wait along (wait along, wait along wait along, wait along) Song writer: Tex Ritter

High Noon 1957 Gary Cooper (sheriff will Kane) / Grace Kelly (His wite)

Do not forsake me, Oh my darlin’ wait, wait, along

The noon train will bring Frank Miller if Vm a man | must be brave

And face that deadly killer

Or Lie a coward, a caravan coward

Or Lie a coward in my grave

Oh, to be torn twixt Love and duty

S'posing’, | Lose my fair-haired beauty

Look at that big hand move along neariw’ high noow

He made a vow while iw state prison vowed It would be my Life or his’w Vm not afraid of death but, oh

what will | do if you leave me?

Bo wot forsake me, oh my darlin’

You made that promise when we wed

Do not forsake me, oh my darlin’ Although you're grieviw’ | caw't be leaving Until | shoot Frank Miller dead

watt along, wait along (walt along, walt along wait along, wait along) Song writer: Tex Ritter

Hope – 1/10/22 My greatest challenge is having hope for the future during these worrisome times. Hope still exists. It is what will lead me out of despair. I am hopeful that the day of being able to gather again will come again. I was raised to believe in integrity, knowledge, being humble, giving everything my best. I was raised to take chances and go for it! Push past yesterday’s limits. Failure was part of my journey. My greatest challenge is to learn how to be alone. I’m dealing with it so much better. It took awhile but I no longer let it stop me from moving on. To all the family, brother, and sisters, and friends and neighbors, and kind strangers and teachers and medics, and writers, and photographers, thinkers and chatter boxes, and you… everyone of you who shared with me you story and your kindness. Thank you each. john

Hope – 1/10/22

My greatest challenge is having hope for the future during these worrisome times. Hope still exists. It is what will lead me out of despair.

| am hopeful that the day of being able to gather again will come again.

| was raised to believe in integrity, knowledge, being humble, giving everything my best. | was raised to take chances and go for it! Push past yesterday’s limits.

Failure was part of my journey. My greatest challenge is to learn how to be alone. I’m dealing with it so much better. It took awhile but | no longer let it stop me from moving on.

To all the family, brother, and sisters, and friends and neighbors, and kind strangers and teachers and medics, and writers, and photographers, thinkers and chatter boxes, and you… everyone of you who shared with me you story and your kindness. Thank you each.

john

House beautiful

You’d be surprised at how bad an impression a cluttered or over-filled house and garage can make a good house look unattractive. Things that don’t fit, cramped spaces, things, things, things, and more things will exhaust visitors because they can’t see the ouse for the things… Crammed closets indicate a disorderly way of life too. Accumulated odds and ends, mismatched furniture, conflicting themes and misguided design decisions hint of a messy life style. If a house is crammed to the gills it makes people wonder if this house is a happy place to live. Collections too can come off as a pile of space-consuming clutter and distract from the strengths and features of the property. Mortified closets crammed with outdated clothes, shoes, and more stuff take away from a lovely home with vast potential. The same is true when the garage olds an array of never or seldom used items, especially quirky or odd things may distract from the house. We’re not talking about lawn and garden tools or equipment or hobby related items. When a two or three car garage can handle one car only there is a serious misuse of space. One has to tread lightly though in suggesting changes or discarding anything, because the owner may be sensitive to part with stuff that may be a source of pride or hold sentimental value.

Everyone’s time is valuable. How they spend it usually matches their personal life style, their persona, their personality. There is only a limited amount of time in the day, the month, or year. That sometimes mean letting go of things can free time to be with friends participate in activities, or just relaxing that brings satisfaction and relief than just wasting time with stuff.

Expecting company is a good way to really look at your home. Sit down in each room for a while and look it over as if you are a guest. Be realistic about what is nice and makes you comfortable. What do you like about the room? Is it the design, floor plan, size, features, furniture and fixtures, or decorations and color? Is it comfortable and pleasing to your eyes?

Consider redoing one room or space at a time. The garage is a good place to start. Organizing tools and equipment will free up space for other things that are needed or used frequently. Likely it is an area where stuff that doesn’t fit in the house has been put. You can tell right away by the way things are stored or arranged. Items readily accessible when needed will save time and effort and make doing things easier. Think, “Tf the house caught fire could I make it to safety using the garage as an escape route? Make it an escape route for you and a guest and you may understand the need for organizing it for the important people in your life; you and your friends.

If you do this process in every room your house will take on a different and refreshing look and one that you have designed and decorated exactly as you want. It will have less clutter and be more comfortable to not only you, but to guests, family and friends alike. Your relationship with your house will be less restricting, easier to care for, comfortable and a source of pride for you. You will have infused a new life style for yourself, ready for adventure and excitement of living, plus more freedom. Isn’t that the life style you crave?

sat elacb ccctemalaaiated

HOWAREYOU-FINEIHOPE

Count your blessings readers of today.

I£ you were living during Rome's grandeur that sentence would have looked like this:

COUNTYOURBLESSINGS READERSOFTODAY

And, if it were an inscription that needed balance, it would have looked like this:

cOUNTYOU RBLESSIWN GSREADER SOFTODAY

Why Johnny can't read

wotld have been easy to explain when letters of the alphabet

were linked together like a train.

Avistophanes of Byzantium in the third century B.C. earned himself the right to be remembered easily.

He is the father of punctuation, Of course in all his books

letters were printed in capitals ANDLIKESOLDIERSINADRILLTHEYLOOKED.

Complete thoughts ended with a dot high up-like this’

He marked a comma, by

putting it halfway up-like this:

Why then is the period

down here. instead of up here’? Because monks in the Middle ages, good brothers that they were.

With a flourish of the quill they stroked a dashing slash, like this/. As time went on the slash lost dash.

Monks liked curls; first a comma, and it was they who put one

into the question mark.

It took some time to get it done.

You can express suprise with just } And a punch is worth a "Pow!!!" To a fine English teacher

I'll wish you a happy 50th!!!, for now.

Count your blessings readers of today.

If you were living during Rome's grandeur that sentence would have looked like this:

COUNTYOURBLESSINGS READERSOFTODAY

And, if it were an inscription that needed balance, it would have looked like this:

cOUNTYOU RBLESSIWN GSREADER SOFTODAY

Why Johnny can't read

would have been easy to explain when letters of the alphabet

were linked together like a train.

Avistophanes of Byzantium in the third century B.C. earned himself the right to be remembered easily.

He is the father of punctuation.

Of course in all his books

letters were printed in capitals “ ANDLIKESOLDIERSINADRILLTHEYLOOKED.

Complete thoughts ended with a dot high up-like this’

He marked a comma, b

putting it halfway up-like this:

Why then is the period

down here. instead of up here’? Because monks in the Middle ages, good brothers that they were.

With a flourish of the quill they stroked a dashing slash, like this/. As time went on the slash lost dash.

Monks liked curls; first a comma, and it was they who put one

into the question mark.

It took some time to get it done.

you can express suprise with just ! pyle | (4) And a punch is worth a "Pow!!!" elu To a fine English teacher

I'll wish you a happy S50th::!, for now.

Many of my best friends think that some of my deeply held beliefs about important issues are obviously false or even nonsense. How can We still be friends?

| explain and give arguments for my claims, and my source for facts. It doesn’t have an effect.

They, | believe, follow someone's words, comments or positions without questing sources of

their so-called facts. / aan

A recent study of middle aged men and women about family estrangement, reported that more than 30% of families experienced estrangement. Most were still at odds with family members. Some had disbanded them altogether. | didn’t participate in the survey/study, but have experienced it in my family.

There are extremists on both sides of a current political scene. They don't listen to the other side. Trolls resort to slogans, name calling, mockery, and jokes. When they do bother to give arguments their arguments often are simply made to justify what suits their feelings and signals tribal alliances.

All of us need to recognize the value of listening carefully; second, we need to ask questions. Most chose not to, or are reluctant to do that and counter with derogatory remarks and anger, further widening the gulf between us.

We also need to give arguments and reasons for our claims on controversial issues. Neither side is obvious enough to escape demands for evidence and reasons which are presented in the form of arguments.

Eawier this week | was on. my phone ina pele vine ihe Nese of more than-fifty years. We

were discussing medicines and health issues pf ourselves and friends. | st&fed that+be ieved ly prescriptiows were/ interacting with other prescriptions. | had just relyfined rom the ER. She

said | had mentionedttgat before and it was|an opinion. | agreed yn entitled to my opinion,

{ confederate stategz aw no connegtion —

fought to kegp sla’ similar to whatis

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\ ~ : Nirmly belie that had the Seuth won there would have been two nations, one Permitting slaveryand the other not. Both would have been weak countries and unable to deféat strong courttries to invade, conquer and set up their own form of government.

involved

I am amazed about how many people that I run into who have been raised on a farm or a country property and express a desire to own and move to the country. It's a great way of life.

I am always looking for and wel- come new listings or requests to see properties.

Please call 618-692-7290 with questions on selling or purchasing farm land or recreational land.

Thanks,

John Casey

johncasey@coldwellbanker.com

670-5646—cell

“It’s not about us 99

I’m a phone call away

to help rural property sellers

John Casey

618-692-7290

Hummingbirds. This morning a tiny hummingbird came up to one of my just filled tiny one-bird clear plastic feeders hanging from my porch ceiling. He/she came over to me like it was on a string and its wings were a blur as it went up and down and back and forth less than an arms length away. When the tiny bird flew (flying may not really portray the way a hummingbird gets from place to place) to a tiny branch on the nearest tree barely 15 feet away I took the feeder from its holder and held it between the thumb and forefinger of my left hand. I waited. I was still. The bird came back. There in front of me was the neatest bird with its curved beak dipping into the feeder drinking the just mixed sugar water (four parts water, one part organic sugar) making a tiny little bubble come to the top of the water. Again, the avaricious critter looked me over from a mere foot or so. I shaded my eyes with my right hand just a bit in case the humming bird was enticed by the red veins of my eyes. Tomorrow I will wear glasses. I’m sure one of the birds that visit is a bully, it’s noticeably bigger – still about the size of a large grape. Some of the hummers approach the porch and feeders at just less than mach speed and when this bully bird whizzes at them I hear agitated sounds from both birds before the aerial combat. At high speed they do barrel rolls and somersaults as they buzz by posts, potted plants and the feeders. They even bump chests with intent to prove their might. My tiny visitors provide me with wonder and pleasure. John Casey 9/07 The tiny hummingbird Was Less than an arms length away from me When it visited the one-bird feeder Hanging from my porch ceiling It came over to me like it was on a string And whizzed up and down And back and forth Before humming off to a small branch on the nearby tree I took the feeder in my hand And held it out and waited for the bird to return And when the avaricious critter came back It looked me over from a mere foot or so It was about the size of a large grape And flew just less than mach speed In an aerial combat with a would be interloper Infringing at the coveted feeder The tiny visitor provides me With wonder and pleasure In the bright light of summer

Hummingbirds.

This morning a tiny hummingbird came up to one of my just filled tiny one-bird clear plastic feeders hanging from my porch ceiling. He/she came over to me like it was on a string and its wings were a blur as it went up and down and back and forth less than an arms length away. When the tiny bird flew (flying may not really portray the way a hummingbird gets from place to place) to a tiny branch on the nearest tree barely 15 feet away I took the feeder from its holder and held it between the thumb and forefinger of my left hand. I waited. I was still. The bird came back. There in front of me was the neatest bird with its curved beak dipping into the feeder drinking the just mixed sugar water (four parts water, one part organic sugar) making a tiny little bubble come to the top of the water. Again, the avaricious critter looked me over from a mere foot or so. I shaded my eyes with my right hand just a bit in case the humming bird was enticed by the red veins of my eyes. Tomorrow I will wear glasses.

I’m sure one of the birds that visit is a bully, it’s noticeably bigger – still about the size of a large grape. Some of the hummers approach the porch and feeders at just less than mach speed and when this bully bird whizzes at them I hear agitated sounds from both birds before the aerial combat. At high speed they do barrel rolls and somersaults as they buzz by posts, potted plants and the feeders. They even bump chests with intent to prove their might.

My tiny visitors provide me with wonder and pleasure.

John Casey 9/07

The tiny hummingbird

Was Less than an arms length away from me When it visited the one-bird feeder

Hanging from my porch ceiling

It came over to me like it was on a string

And whizzed up and down

And back and forth

Before humming off to a small branch on the nearby tree

I took the feeder in my hand

And held it out and waited for the bird to return And when the avaricious critter came back

It looked me over from a mere foot or so

It was about the size of a large grape

And flew just less than mach speed

In an aerial combat with a would be interloper Infringing at the coveted feeder

The tiny visitor provides me With wonder and pleasure In the bright light of summer

Hummingbirds.

This morning a tiny hummingbird flew up to one of my just filled feeders hanging from my porch ceiling. It came over to me like it was on a string with wings a blur as it went up and down and back and forth less than an arms length away. Then the tiny bird flew to a small branch on a nearby tree a few feet away. I picked up the feeder with my thumb and forefinger and waited holding it very still.

The bird came back. Right In front of my eyes it hovered and hummed, its curved beak dipping into the feeder and drinking the sugar water making a tiny bubble rise. When the avaricious marvel finished, it turned and looked me over from a mere foot or so. I shaded my eyes with my hand in case it was enticed by the red in my eyes.

One of the birds that visit is a bully; it’s noticeably bigger, about the size of a large grape. When it is around and other hummers approach the feeders the bully bird whizzes at them at just less than mach speed. I hear the agitated cries of both birds during the aerial combat. At high speed they do barrel rolls and somersaults as they buzz by posts, potted plants and the feeders and bump chests with intent to prove their might. It is a delightfully entertaining show.

Tiny humming birds Fly only an arms length away When they visit a feeder Hanging from my porch ceiling

They come over as if on a string whizzing up and down And back and forth Before flying away

With a feeder in my hand I wait for the birds To fly close And look me over

The size of a large grape The hummers fly just less than mach speed In an aerial combat with a interloper Infringing at the coveted feeder

Their wings moving in a figure 8 The tiny visitors provide me With wonder and pleasure In the bright light of summer

j. casey 2007

The original page will appear here.

Iam a student first. I learn by doing, listening, reading and also writing. I learn more by remembering the right things I do. Results are what I am after. When I hear golfers say things like, “I pulled it;” “I hit under it;” “It broke the wrong way;” or’! topped it,” 1 DON”T RESPOND TO THIS JABBER. I say to myself (match’to above); “I came across it, I'll correct it;” “my swing was too steep-I’ll adjust;” my read was not good — remember the break;” and, “I hurried my shot – J’ll be patient.”

I protect SELF, but seek to improve. I don’t want guilt or negative thoughts to dominate me and suck away enjoyment.

Think of golf as COMPLEX not complicated. Complex is a single part and not hard. Complicated is thinking of the whole all at once. That is tough, tough, tough. passiiemizationinalausismmyway to visualize the

cess.

Pre-shot — This is not haphazard. Put some thought into it and develop a routine. You want to be able to follow a routine, especially as the game gets tighter or you get tired.

Pre-shot routine, an example: Tee the ball the desired height (or position it) Set the club behind the ball with the face square Then I move behind the ball several steps I visualize the shot I want to make. I take 4 steps to the ball to position myself for my stance (I silently count 4 steps & some may be small ones) I take my stance, first the right foot then the left one I look at the target briefly to fix it in my mind I look at the ball, the face of the club, and make A swing thought. I make a swing. My pre-shot routine takes about 10-12 seconds; it’s automatic and most players aren’t aware that I repeat it every time I swing.*

A plan I use every year and sometimes when my game goes sour. Make written notes on MY GAME, its strengths, weaknesses Condense my notes and prioritize what needs the most work Practice (also experiment with a few changes) with a purpose Consciously make changes and practice repetitions | Practice the good parts of my game to keep sharp

akon

I am so lonesome tonight. I feel alone – abandoned. There is a need of being connected. The need of feeling someone near me is important. Important!

All day there was a longing. A need. A want. It kept me awake, afloat, alive.

Tomorrow is next. It will bring joy and the connection I want.

There a few times in my life that the emotion is so strong in me to direct my actions and thought to the things that are a key to my success – and happiness. Now is one of those times.

Now is the exact time that all of my being is present. Now

is the exact time that I am alive with the feelings that I wnat to express. Now is how I feel and it is a living experience and not a captured event.

The moon is up and so am I. The way I feel now is what I want to feel and how I want to think.

you are part ot the experi4nce and the way to my thoughts and insignt. the words to exprewss mysewlf is lost in the thoughgts os your toineght. these thingss I knoww.

Thinkk olf that, c.l,yde.

Surew, I"

m messing up but it is the way I am toniggnt. YU are the abloluste bestt thing in my life right now and you re ver imporint to me.

I believe Democrats try to unite people. I believe Republicans want a one-party rule

Democrats tend to protest Republicans tend to riot

Democrats are concerned about the earth and science Climate change, air-quality – water quality.

Republicans don’t protect the earth. They choose jobs over preservation of fossil fuel, oil, coal, timber, ice

Democrats are more educated, prudent, cultured, readers Republicans – less educated, reaction rather than analyze

Democrats want strong image, personal values, character, reason Republicans, act before thinking, speak before knowing, intimidate

Trump: Racist, Sexist, Demands loyalty, Blames, swaggers, brags – boasts Mocks, Self first, challenges, rants, repeats words, glares, poses, struts, “In the history, “ points, waves, gestures, Gait is poor. He is a coward. chest thumper, jabs, tries to be brave, gives false numbers, alters reports, threatens, \

THIS DESCRIBES TRUMP – TO ME. BRAGGADOCIOUS CAN’T DELIVER ON PROMISES BELIEVES HE IS A VICTIM

‘(| believe I am undergoing some ma‘jor changes in life. My ‘thinking _¢ is different now wey was 15-10-5 years agoe /Bhere is a\different focus in life. ambition is not the same. (J/ feel a little confused. 3

) think about a smaller house and yard, and a bright red sports car and @ new clothes. Well, a little of the time} do. Actually, / ‘T\really want (Sy a jeep, to go back to hunting deer and pheasants. But with whog, My) Z57 friends play.golf and would not think of hunting. How easy it is to do

one ot don't want to be alone, yet find that more and more of thé B tim

(hy want: to travel, see things, do things – with someone. Money and time restricts of course, but small trips are ok. The companion_that likes what ‘like is another matter. “/feel a drifting apart fromcmy spousee (don't like that, but feel without power to do much about ite Our views are different, our friends different. Things are different. There is a goodness about our relationship and it has always been good.

G miss my kid something fierce. QSdon't want time to pass fast, but On lieve in time that his choice to move out of our home will turn out ok. i T) worry about him a lot, mean a lote It's lonesome without him arounde \e AK

want to work on fitness and conditioning. Getting older makes/m about healthe _—"

Tonight Cam considering several ways to spend the evening. Ones fJcoula go to the Country Club for their fund raiser. It will cost (me) Gg $100 and you already know how @hate losing money without getting something material in return. However, it would be a good idea to be seen by more . people. It would be good for businesse Work you know is important. (1) @/ could wait for Barb to get home, she will probably here about 8:00 PM. < Then we could do something. It is not likely that (Ijwill see Shanon. ron

G have worked all day at the office and am not wanting to start up the “a work process againe Going home to a dark house, the two cats, and no @ 2 a 2 Ff

noise, does not appeal to « It's too far to go and see the family.

Well, this letter,is almost over. It could be that @will mail it. It is e that (will read it againe Notice the number of times pe the letter @ eae appeared in this letter and you will know who At. was @ written for and maybe you will detect something that is good, \D)really a do think of you a lot. See yous

I changed doctors. It helped. My son said he wanted me to write my story. I’ve been doing that. The key; it’s OK to care about ourselves, but it’s beJer if you care about others. It is not a swap. There are no comparisons. I have less material items and more kindness. I feel be Jer. I am free. Time is dear to me.

First, I Don’t do comedy, and I can prove it. In fact that’s what I’m dong now.

I needed help and support and turned to Elvis. By the way, I heard he has been reincarnated and is now a boy of 7 and living in Spain and into church music.

DO: Elvis Songs introduction. *Now and then there’s a fool such as I *Shake Rattle and Roll

Thanks Man!

So, I GOT IN THE KITCHEN AND RATTLED some POTS AND PANS

BACON IS MY SUBJECT TONIGHT.

I know that most of you love BACON, but some of you feel terrible about it. DON’T

One day I dreamed of meeting a wonderful woman who would light up my life. Someone that just by being with would make me feel good. A person who, by instinct, would know my heart.

Her warm eyes and smile would melt me, yet give me strength.

Her laughter would be music and enjoyment. Her voice strong

and comforting.

She would lead, but could follow. She would talk, but could

listen. She would be kind, gentle, and made of the strongest fiber.

She would know the truth about life, but would search as she lives it.

She would enjoy the sun coming up and seeing it set – and the moon and the stars. She would like the wind and rain. A cloudy day would be as enjoyabe as a sunny one.

She would be a miracle. I have looked for her. She is there for me. She is close to me.

She can wear a cowboy shirt and jeans, a tee shirt and shorts (I wish she would), and wears a dress or skirt with pizzaz.

She is kind to to the old and gentle to to young and is happy that she is what she is.

She is good to me, but not when I don't deserve it. She is diplomatic first, but will fight.

She knows no and understands yes.

She can smoke a cigar without observing anything more than the smoke.

I lose myself with her.

She is sunshine. She makes me happy when clouds are grey….you know the song.

If something does not work for her the second time, she doesn't do it again.

She keeps me from being impressed with myself.

She has wisdom, insights, truths, and stories that inform, inspire, and provide fun.

She relaxes me by sharing time and laughter. I like her hitting.

This was written for me. I gave myself pep talk and a change from being home bound and feeling miserable. I had decluttered my apartment (it is an on going process) and played g holes of golf week that turned into 18 holes a week and once twice a week. I didn’t feel physically better, and hit horrendous shots. My attitude surprised me and I look forward to more golf with my friends. I do not want to play when the temp reaches 100.

I did’t complain about health, bad shots or losing and the money it cost me.

Recently, my friend of 20 years (e) told me his son, 39, had suffered a set back and hada bout of drugs withdrawal and mental problems. My friend went on and on. I told him about my dealing with my 81 year old self had hit a bump and I had begin writing out my problems, hoping to regain the joy of living. “I'll share it with you and your son,” I told him and two weeks later gave it to him. He said his son was not doing anything, had no money, and just hung out.

That was 10 days ago. I saw my friend yesterday and he helped me with a chore.

T asked about his son and he said he was staying with his older brother, but had not done anything. My friend told me of his July 4th party and 100 guests. It was a hoot and there were lots of wobblies.

My friend said he and his buddy were going to Florida for a week to¢ ten days to play golf and goof off. He said (I'll use Mike as his name) his niece had a new home that cost $700,000, She also (with her husband) bought a boat that cost $350, 000 and a lift for $150,000. Further, Mike and his friend would play golf at the Ponte Verde Golf course in Jacksonville as her guest. Green fees $600 – caddies are required and tips would be $100.

Meanwhile (Scott, also a story name) would hang out at his dad’s home. Meanwhile, (Stephen Colbert’s favorite lead-in) Scott is on-his-own. I'll ease back on offering help

and support for Mike, and Scott.

I've gota game of golf scheduled for next Tuesday for 18 holes. The forecast is for cooler weather. Green fees, include a cart and a hot dog is $33.00. It’s my kind of game.

I’m making progress on own plan. My advice will be limited to ask myself what kind of club should use.

John

| have gained better health and take fewer pills. I’m encouraged because people notice that I’m not like | used to be. | don’t burden them with my life. | don’t try to solve their problems either, but | have more compassion, more kindness and independence that this time last (week, month, year). | think my friends like me better. | hope | have earned that.

| credited decluttering my apartment as one of the best things | have done for myself in three decades. | got rid of things. | changed. I’m not in a hurry as much as before. Asingle word: WORLD changed me. It challenged me before and made me angry, until | learned to say and write it it backwards: DLROW.

Asta died almost four years ago. | was heartbroken. It saddened me. | cried often for awhile. | wrote her eulogy. | still think of her at times. Usually it is when | am outside doing things. She was a friend of nature and that includes all living things. She once told me not to mourn too long when someone dies. Remember what they meant to you, but don’t forget what you meant to them.

Sandi and | have been friends for five decades and it has been a ball at times to laugh and talk and tell stories, and break bread and have a glass of wine. My son, Shan and Jay are my pillars. They make me laugh hard!

Recently, my counselor said she was pleased with my progress to handle stress, anxiety and sadness. “You are balanced and no further counseling is needed or recommended unless you want to see me again.” She had read several of my stories, poems, and comments and suggested | continue to write. “You’re good at it.”

| became John, finally. (April 2022)

I have gained better health and take fewer pills. I’m encouraged because people notice that I’m not like I used to be. I don’t burden them with my life. I don’t try to solve their problems either, but I have more compassion, more kindness and independence that this time last (week, month, year). I think my friends like me better. I hope I have earned that. I credited decluttering my apartment as one of the best things I have done for myself in three decades. I got rid of things. I changed. I’m not in a hurry as much as before. A single word: WORLD changed me. It challenged me before and made me angry, until I learned to say and write it it backwards: DLROW. Asta died almost four years ago. I was heartbroken. It saddened me. I cried often for awhile. I wrote her eulogy. I still think of her at times. Usually it is when I am outside doing things. She was a friend of nature and that includes all living things. She once told me not to mourn too long when someone dies. Remember what they meant to you, but don’t forget what you meant to them. Sandi and I have been friends for five decades and it has been a ball at times to laugh and talk and tell stories, and break bread and have a glass of wine. My son, Shan and Jay are my pillars. They make me laugh hard! Recently, my counselor said she was pleased with my progress to handle stress, anxiety and sadness. “You are balanced and no further counseling is needed or recommended unless you want to see me again.” She had read several of my stories, poems, and comments and suggested I continue to write. “You’re good at it.” I became John, finally. (April 2022)

I have time to do projects that doesn’t require physical strength. Keeping an active mind helps me in many ways: It lessens stress, anxiety and promotes an attitude for contributing, plus feeling good about myself. I am a fast reader and scanner of pages, looking for certain words and names, places, and time. When assisting a person, friend or client (when I was working) I lock-on to specific dates, numbers, people, places. I like others to read proposals or narratives, plans, and information and get back to me as quickly as they can. It keeps me focused or to end my efforts. I believe that when people says to me, “You’ve got too much time on your hands” they’re wrong. I saw myself in Heidi; his pain was like mine. He moved like me, slow. He ate slowly, without teeth, natural or dentures. I eat slow, but usually soft food. He ate maybe 6 half spoons of Chili and asked for a box to take home. He receives a prepared mean daily at 11:00 O’clock – Meals on Wheels. did too, but cancelled it. It was not nutritional and more like a snack. I was precooked before delivery, and frozen. I’m sure someone places the meal in a micro wave for him: 3 minute, remove film, stir and heat 1 minute. He was fixated on a lost ring in his lake and wanted to find it. He said it was 3-4 foot deep. He said it’s value was $3,500. He showed his thinking of material things.

I met Mr. Musial when I was 17. Our High school team went to a Cardinal game after a road trip to New Athens to play their high school team. Whity Herzog was the New Athens coach before Mr. Ed Theese invited our coach, Bryan Kerley, who had been a teammate of his in the minor leagues, to bring his high school team to play his team and go on to St. Louis to see the Cardinals play the Cubs. It was to be an exciting trip. The night game was long and played in a rain. Sad Same Jones (Tooth Pick Sam) pitched a masterful game and the Cardinals won one to nothing. after the game our bus was loaded. I asked Mr. Kerley if I could stay out and try to get a autograph. “O K. but we can’t wait long.” Stan was the first man to come out of the clubhouse and I moved towards him. He looked great in his tailored clothes. “Mr. Musial, could I have your autograph was met with his reply, “” Not now young man, I have to be somewhere.” He trotted past me. I didn’t recognize some of the players who came out except Sad Sam. I moved towards him and asked him for a autograph. He motioned me to come closer. I did and he signed my score card. I was pleased and returned to the bus. My teammates called out, “Did you get Musial’s autograph?” “No, but I got the winning pitcher’s autograph. Sad Sam Jones.” “Who’s he.” Twenty odd years later I met Mr. Musial at his restaurant in St. Louis – “Stan and Biggies” He came into the closed bar (I was sitting at the bar awaiting the end of a seminar I had been attending), said hello to the bartender and turned away. I called him by his name and said, “I met you a long time ago and you brushed me off.” He stopped and turned to me and said “Hello. When?” I told him. He asked me if he could buy me a beer and I declined. “Gotta go.” I met Stan about five years later when he came to Mt. Vernon, IL to attend the opening of the new Ramada Inn in Mt. Vernon. Stan was a stock holder. I lived and worked in Mt. Vernon. Stan saw me from a few feet and came over and said hello. It was a good visit and he brought several 8/1/2 X 11” photos he gave out. He signed some for me and my friends. I was always his fan. Musial also brought his harmonica and played ‘THE WABASH CANNON BALL to the delight of the crowd. He said he could not play another tune, only that one. I’ve been part of a pre-game ceremony at Busch Stadium. I met Joe Torre that day. He was the MVP that year. Jason Isrenhausen is a friend and I had been watching his progress since he signed his first major league contract. I saw the new Busch Stadium tarp gobble up Vince Coleman prior to a World Series game. I saw Andy Van Slyke slide into the right field wall at Wrigley field and catch a pop fly. I was at the retirement of Bob Gibson in Busch Stadium when he received a large motor home. 55,000 fans applauded his remarkable 251 games won. I saw Gibson strike out 18 Detroit tigers before 54, 954 fans. I have the score card somewhere. I wrote a story about Jim Edmonds and sent it to him.

I need to stop dwelling on myself if I am ever going to heal or get better. My goal is to find a new direction to channel my energy. That’s what my decluttering program was all about and it worked. I got things done and improved my place. Keeping stuff or putting it in another place was only compounding my life. I made a conscious choice to give things away and focus on my self. A smile, a warm handshake or lunch with a friend helped. The key was being mindful. For good things to happen, I really have to mean it. Writing for Storyline was a good method of recording my thoughts. However, there are times when I don’t want to reflect of what happened in the past. I’ll shift.

I read about 300 books a year, more in the winter than the summer. I read non- fiction and like history, war, sports, as well as religious and spiritual books. I studied the Civil War for many years, read countless books and visited many battlefields. I have been were the war started (Fort Sumter in 2008) and where it ended at Appomattox Court House. I conducted a college community education class on the Civil War and have made several speeches to groups. I also studied the Lewis and Clark journey and the American West. I still study American history and am currently working on a presidential greeting card idea both for enjoyment and potential publishing.

Just as I read a lot, I write a lot. I write essays, short stories, and poems. I have been writing since grade school and really got into it when I was in high school. My stories are recollections of my childhood, but also of events that were happening. I wrote about my feelings of the assassination of both Jack and Bobby Kennedy, the end of WW II, 9/11, the first man on the moon, and short stories of common people I knew.

I’m wanting to be more disciplined and consistent in taking medicines/.pills./gels/ lotions, etc I ask that a pharmacist look at the enclosed / attached pages and suggest: Their function A schedule to take them with or with a meal or water Can I eliminate any note: I have lots of over the counter pills Headache, upset stomach, sniffles, irritated throat, Thanks for reviewing. Call me or send back information. My goal is to have fewer pills, yet the right ones. I have had both doses of vaccines – last one 3/12

“I want to change. “No you don’t.” Don’t kid yourself. You need to use every waking hour of your life to further your cause. No excuses. You are not any different or any worse off than anyone else. You’re not a special case who needs different rules than anyone else. You need to make a choice right now. You’re never going to change your life until you get rid of what’s holding you back. Start taking actions to propel you forward. You’ve got to put in the work and build positive habits that will pull you in the right direction. Don’t say you will, and then don’t. Don’t push it off until tomorrow – until later. You are what you do, not what you say you will do. Ask yourself what do you want to accomplish? What do I need to do to get there? Hold yourself accountable; moment, by moment, by moment. People succeed because they didn’t let uncertainty stop them. They did it anyway. They were relentless when the only thing they had to fuel themselves was relentlessness. ALL I KNOW, IS THAT I KNOW NOTHING”. Socrates. In reality, even many of the things we think are hard facts aren’t. They’re assumptions, half-truths, misrepresentations. They’re guesses. If you want to win, you have to be willing to be judged by others. You could change your life overnight if you simply abandoned the notion that other peoples opinion matter. You’ll have to accept that some people are going to think you’re an idiot, or worse. You are afraid of uncertainty. Meet it head on. Enjoy it. The only thing you will regret is not trying, not striving, not pushing through when the going gets tough. I’m going to die. If I take death into my life, acknowledge it, and face it squarely, I WILL FREE MYSELF from the anxiety of death and the pettiness of life – and only then will I be myself.” MARTIN HEIDEGGER. One day you’re going to die. You’re going to stop breathing, become still, and cease to exist. You will exit this physical plain. We’re all mortal. It’s the one truth you can not argue with.

I wanted so much — money, success, recognition, and genuine creative expression — but had absolutely no clue as to what | truly needed. I was a workaholic, careaholic, and a perfectionist. Was I very kind to myself? I had to be ruthlessly honest both inwardly and outwardly. During this time of introspection I was actually searching for wholeness and harmony. I needed an authentic life. I try to do that now. I can recognize that my life is not one of less or that I do without, it is of abundance. | have a beautiful and great son, an abundance of friends, wonderful siblings, | am warm, I am full, | have a good mind, health, and there is joy in me from my abundance. How could I expect more from the Universe when I didn't appreciate what I already had? Our wishes for the future, our hopes, our dreams, our aspirations are our truest treasures. Reading books change lives. So does writing them.

Only dreams give birth to change. I do not make resolutions, but | do have aspirations and | will keep them in focus. I will be grateful and find simplicity. I will see beauty; there will be order, harmony, and joy. I will recognize my authentic self. I will listen to my heart. I do not want to live unconsciously. It's great for sleeping, but not for living. | like living. I have been racked with sorrow, loss, hurt, but still I know that just to be alive is a good thing.

I have a great need of someone. | believe that when you need you attract like a lover. I dig with my pen to excavate my real self. I can remember things if | have a pen and I write with it and play with it. My hand concentrates for me. | have a dialogue with myself and I listen to the wisdom I have to offer.

These things I have learned. I have great respect for learning. I am a student and life is my teacher. I strive to embrace the limitless. I feel delighted in the unexpected. I'm about to get on a lucky streak. I see sudden breakthroughs and insights.

I get it now. I have the creative power to live my life on purpose and out loud.

I wanted to hang on to my sense of identity as a strong, resilient man. I had never learned to trust people enough to allow myself to depend on them.

I got sick in 2013. As my sickness deepened I had become dependent on others, then to allow people to help me, I had to learn trust. My world perspective was no longer appropriate for the man I now was. I wasn’t the tough guy who needed to prove my manliness anymore. I didn’t look the same. I couldn’t do what I used to do. I wasn’t going to get better until I came to terms with myself and acknowledge who I had become.

If I could accept the help of others, being genuinely appreciative of the people who were offering it instead of being bitter, maybe that would mean I had accepted myself. I had come to terms a long time ago with the fact that I was going to die. My new lesson would be accepting that this was the way I was going to live. I intend to become a much warmer and more secure version of myself. I recall having made a vow, as such, that I would be recognized by my kindness. That’s a big responsibility.

I was a slave. I worked for food and shelter. My mother and father taught me, and my brothers also taught me. Relatives, friends, and enemies taught me. Animals and birds taught me. Creeks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass taught me. I was taught by fire too. I learned from the stars, sun, moon, the wind, rain, snow, darkness and light. I learned in the morning, midday and into the night.

I learned how to rake leaves, cultivate a garden and pick corn. My father taught me. My brothers taught me to walk rails, swim, climb trees, and shoot slingshots. I learned how to mow grass and cut weeds. I learned to shoot a rifle, a pistol, and a shotgun. I learned how to sharpen knives, to use a saw, hamer, screwdriver and split firewood. I learned how to fish and to clean and eat them carefully. I learned how to hunt and respect game.

I learned how to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, corncobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools of water. I learned how to hit balls, bottle caps, tennis balls, and I also learned to catch. I learned how to play golf, but that was much later in life. I learned to jump, run, crawl, and scoot. I learned how to slide, fall, skip and tumble. And, get up, brush off, smile and keep going.

My mother, sisters, and aunts taught me to sew on buttons, to quilt, stretch curtains and to mend socks. I learned how to wash, hang, and iron clothes. I learned how to can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. I learned how to cook and how bread rises (well maybe not how bread rises).

I learned how to cut down trees and to steal honey from a beehive. I learned how to use an axe and a wedge. I learned to read and write. I never learned to sing, but I can sing along. My poems are my songs.

I learned about nature and animals. I learned how to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in view. I saw little tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews, and raindrops and icicles. I learned how to identify tracks on the ground and in the snow.

I learned how to ride a horse, milk a cow, butcher a hog, and train a dog. I learned how to pour concrete, clean out gutters, install a windowpane, sweep the walk, and dig a posthole.

Iam a student, and life is my teacher.

| was a slave. | worked for food and shelter.

My mother and father taught me, and my brothers also taught me. Relatives, friends, and enemies taught me. Animals and birds taught me. Creeks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass taught me. | was taught by fire too. | learned from the stars, sun, moon, the

wind, rain, snow, darkness and light. | learned in the moming, midday and into the night.

[learned to rake leaves and make a garden from my father. My brothers taught me to walk rails, climb trees, and shoot slingshots. | learned to mow grass and cut weeds. | learned to shoot a rifle, a pistol, anda shotgun. | learned to sharpen knives, to usca saw, hamer, screwdriver and split firewood. | learned to fish and to clean and cat them

carefully. | learned to hunt and respect game.

| learned to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, cormcobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools of water. | learned to hit balls, bottle caps, tennis balls, and | also learned to catch. | learned how to play sof bu that was much later inlife)] learned to jump, run, craw, and scoot. | learned to sl ide, fall, skip and tumble. And, getup, smile and keep going.

My mother, sisters, and aunts taught me to sewon buttons, to quilt and to mend socks. | learned to wash, hang, and iron clothes. | learned to can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. | learned to cook and how bread rises (well maybe not

how bread rises). | learned to cut down trees, steal honey froma bechive, and use an axe anda wedge. | learned to read and write. | never learned to sing. My poems are my songs.

| learned about nature and animals. | learned to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in view. | saw little tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews, and raindrops and

icicles. | learned to identify tracks in the ground and in snow.

| learned to ride a horse, milk a cow, butcher a hog, traina dog, pick corm, plant and cultivate a garden. | learned to pour concrete, clean out gutters, install atwindowpane, sweep the walk, and dig a posthole. These things | learned. | have great respect for

learning. | ama student and life is my teacher.

I went to the basement to check on my laundry. The step door was open. I had a small laundry. I noticed Jean in the garage. She had moved her car to the middle of the garage. I went into it and asked why and where could I park. Jean said there was a slick place in the north area. Her car had leaked a liquid. Oil, fluid? I replied, still, where would I park? Her reply was the garage parking is for her- not shared. I have lived here since early 2000. I have never parked my autos in the north part of the garage. Never! Ever! Jean’s car is a bit bigger and she parks on the north side.my car is smaller and I squeeze in on the left. I replied “ you are hard to get along with. She retorted “ you should take a look in a mirror.” Our neighbors next door has not spoken to Jean for more than 15 years. For the last year I attempted to avoid her. I say hello. There is no exchange. She has opened my mail several times. Bank statements, insurance, bills, They have been opened. She writes “sorry” I went to auto pay. My address is 435 1/2 Some mail had used 435 and dropped the 1/2. Hopefully, that won’t happen again. I take issue with Jean opening my mail though. I don’t trust her. She wanted to put in writing that we would rotate taking trash to the curb. I said I would not sign a agreement on who takes trash to the curb. We have not needed one for 12-15 years. She bangs away on her computer. Plays music. We have nothing in common. I’m going to keep doing what I do. She sent me a bill for my share of using her water. Lawn and flowers. She used my water to wash her clothes for more than a year. The difference was several hundred dollars in my favor. I researched water use. She talks negatively about her landlord. And, for sure she talks negatively to others about me. I will fight back.

If I only speak about the past I will go backwards I have a hunger for more than usual

I must set my focus and protect my time

Put my thoughts in writing. Question them: why shouldn’t it work? What do I need to do? Engage in focused thinking

Action is more valuable than good intentions

Do what is right as soon as I can

Be bold and courageous

Have fun, make it a priority

Take time to plan

Start with the end in mind, be a finisher

Be willing to make changes

Aim high and take risks Don’t quit after a victory, keep the forward momentum going

People are my path to success

I will qualify people before I let them in

I will distance myself from those who are negative

People will flourish according to my level of praise of them Do not fear criticism. Whoever criticizes others to me, will criticize me to others Talk about what people want

Respect people’s freedom

Learn something from someone who knows more than I do Give people the benefit of the doubt

Listen before I answer. Give gentle answers

I don’t have to be right all the time

Don’t be too proud to apologize

My pain is trying to tell me I have to deal with something out of order

Take time to rest and guard my energy

Don’t waste time with critics or fault finders

Refuse to be discouraged when misjudged

Don’t become bitter

Refuse to be manipulated, or intimidated by the unreasonable expectations of others What others think of me is none of my business

If I want something I have never had, I am gong to have to do something I’ve never done

I’m 73!

For years I hoped I'd live to be 73. I picked it when it was so far off in my future that it didn’t worry me. Living — summer, winter, fall and spring -sing to me – as they always have and I don’t want the music to stop.

I’ve learned not to blame someone or something externial when I fail. But I don’t beat myself up for failing either. I don’t call myself a name that I wouldn’t let a friend call me.

I don’t excuse rudeness — I’m not a wimp. I don’t say “Thank you very much” when “Thank you” is adequate. Excessive thanks leave nothing in reserve for the important occasions.

I did, but don’t anymore, care about what everyone thinks about me. That is vain and there’s no sense in it. But I do care what my true friends think about me and I sometimes fear letting them down.

John 155

I’m at the finish line. 98% finished. My closets and hangers still have to be considered. My trunks have THINGS that may show up again. You and Annie guided me and encouraged me. It expanded my limitations. The ‘will you be my friend’ was written decades ago. it applies today. Ive strived to be authentic. I am not transparent.

I’m really having a time of it. Locked up. I seem unable to move beyond small confines and out into the open. I’m shy again. I may or may not tell someone my name and what I do, where I work, and where I live. I’m guarded and not cheery.

I wrote a poem several years ago about going through the motions like a fan stirring up the air. There is similarity to how I feel now. Then, it was to report that I was out of that malady. Today, it is like I’m still in a frozen state and wanting to get out of it.

It has reached a point that I can not even tell my son or my family about me and what’s going on. Iam worried. I am also hopeful that it will end. There are indications that it will.

I was on a crest and things looked up.

One evening about 30 days ago I met what I thought was an unfortunate young woman crying in the parking lot of a well-known bar and grill in Alton. It was early and the woman was setting in front of the establishment with her head in her hands. I spoke to her as I approached and asked what was wrong. She answered and said her fiancée’ had died. I felt compassion well up in me and I spoke to her again.

Later, she would hit me with a beer bottle, drive away in my car and total it a few blocks away. Wow. A carjacking. More story that what I have said here. In fact, 1 wrote about it on 10 or so pages.

I’ve struggled with health issues. They beat me up.

I went about changing everything because it was about time. I needed to wake up and accept what happens. So, I picked my self up, dusted my self off and got back in the race. That’s Life!

There are so many ways for me to discard habits and find new directions for living. I pay attention to my mood and imagery in terms of programming my changes. My focus is doing things or having things that make sense. It is not only about emotions.

I miss my friend Asta. She embraced life each day with optimism and a plan that was sometimes written, often not. When I was around I was not idle, she had a chore or a favor for me to do and I gladly did it. She was a critic and let me know when I was not doing something right. I got better, but was still in need of how to do something, or find something around her plant/flower nursery.

She also had a trait of relaxing and making conversations about life, including politics, scalawags, and good people. When she came over she gave me advice on how to arrange furniture, lighting, cook something, or where to shop for what I wanted. She advised wholesome food. Read every label she said. She also asked me to turn down lights to create an atmosphere as it calmed people and improved communications. People would talk softer. She also taught me to listen more and talk less. That, my friends, is hard for me but I’m aware of it and try to listen better. When you are talking you are not learning.

I’ve struggled with health issues. They beat me up. I went about changing everything because it was about time. I needed to wake up and accept what happens. So, I picked my self up, dusted my self off and got back in the race. That’s Life! There are so many ways for me to discard habits and find new directions for living. I pay attention to my mood and imagery in terms of programming my changes. My focus is doing things or having things that make sense. It is not only about emotions. I miss my friend Asta. She embraced life each day with optimism and a plan that was sometimes written, often not. When I was around I was not idle, she had a chore or a favor for me to do and I gladly did it. She was a critic and let me know when I was not doing something right. I got better, but was still in need of how to do something, or find something around her plant/flower nursery. She also had a trait of relaxing and making conversations about life, including politics, scalawags, and good people. When she came over she gave me advice on how to arrange furniture, lighting, cook something, or where to shop for what I wanted. She advised wholesome food. Read every label she said. She also asked me to turn down lights to create an atmosphere as it calmed people and improved communications. People would talk softer. She also taught me to listen more and talk less. That, my friends, is hard for me but I’m aware of it and try to listen better. When you are talking you are not learning.

If I were Biden, I'd leave Kamala in charge in Washington and go to Texas with an investigative crew. Show up! – But Trump's there at the NRA Convention – So what!

Thoughts: Ban the sale of automatic weapons – executive order. All purchases of guns require a background check.

Purchase of ammunition – limited to ___? 50-100? – The boy bought 375 on his second trip to the gun merchant.

– How did the merchant handle the sale? Did the shooter pay cash? Or a credit card of the boy's grandmother? Wouldn't the merchant be questioning the boy about something to do with the unusual purchase? Was the merchant open for business during the shooting? Is there a receipt of the items bought by the boy?

If you show me yours, I’ll show you mine

“What’s that limp all about?” “Why” my friend said, “I sprained my ankle” “You did?” I replied, “So did I a few years back”

“I broke my knee one time” He said, “Gosh, so did I” I replied

“Pye had several broken bones,” He said. I answered, “So have I, Big ones too”

»When I was a kid I almost froze to death When I fell into a pond,” he offered “] fell into one too Luckily it was not too deep”

“I noticed the scar on your hand How’d you get that?” “Oh, I cut myself with a pocket knife When I was making a kite”

He showed me another scar Where a nail had punctured his leg I showed him the scar on my belly From an encounter with a barbed wire fence

There was a scar over his left eye That almost matched mine And his right ear was nicked Mine too

By then I wanted to show him The big scar on my left arm But he beat me to it and Showed me his first

If you show me yours, I’ll show you mine

“What’s that limp all about?” “Why”, my friend said, “I sprained my ankle” “You did?” I replied, “So did I a few years back”

“I broke my knee one time” He said, “Gosh, so did I” I replied

“lve had several broken bones,” He said. I answered, “So have I, Big ones too”

”When I was a kid I almost froze to death When I fell into a pond,” he offered “T fell into one too Luckily it was not too deep”

“I noticed the scar on your hand How’d you get that?” “Oh, I cut myself with a pocket knife When I was making a kite”

He showed me another scar Where a nail had punctured his leg I showed him the scar on my belly From an encounter with a barbed wire fence

There was a scar over his left eye That almost matched mine And his right ear was nicked

Mine too

By then I wanted to show him The big scar on my left arm But he beat me to it and

Showed me his first

He raised his shirt and Turned to show me a large scar That almost matched Mine

If you show me yours, I’ll show you mine

“What’s that limp all about?” “Why” my friend said, “I sprained my ankle” “You did?” I replied, “So did I a few years back”

“I broke my knee one time” He said, “Gosh, so did |” I replied

“lve had several broken bones,” He said. I answered, “So have I, Big ones too”

”When I was a kid I almost froze to death When I fell into a pond,” he offered “I fell into one too Luckily it was not too deep”

“I noticed the scar on your hand How’d you get that?” “Oh, I cut myself with a pocket knife When I was making a kite”

He showed me another scar Where a nail had punctured his leg I showed him the scar on my belly From an encounter with a barbed wire fence

There was a scar over his left eye That almost matched mine And his right ear was nicked Mine too

By then I wanted to show him The big scar on my left arm But he beat me to it and Showed me his first

He raised his shirt and Turned to show me a large scar That almost matched Mine

Some of my scars were made by mountain lions His by grizzlies He was antlered by an elk A moose gored me

He could hold his breath under water for two minutes I could run 10 miles in 50 minutes I rode wild horses He rode bulls

“See you tomorrow,” “Ok, take it easy.” We can’t wait To talk about our New ailments

John Casey 2008

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In Texas, if you are 18 you can't buy (legally) a beer, but you can buy a gun.

The last few days of his life the shooter lived with his grandfather.

Mathew McConaughey's home town. Population – 16,000.

The shooter apparently had 2 AR-15's but left one behind at the wrecked van.

Reinstate – or pass a law – that you must be 21 to buy a gun. Bullets – limit for 50 days – 25 *.

– Shooter last worked in a fast-food restaurant.

Republicans bank on gun owners and blame [the] mental condition of the shooter.

Praying is NOT the way.

Everything with which human beings interact has a definite impact upon their well being. There is interdependence between or beliefs, behaviors, expectations, health, personal relationships, and the environment. Change any one of these elements and it could have a powerful effect on each of the others.

What will achieving a particular outcome do for you? What will be the outcomes of that outcome? What's the worst that could happen if you achieve your outcome? Can you think of any reason why achieving the outcome would not be in your best interests?

By answering these questions you will identify the potential positive and negative effects of achieving an outcome before you pursue it. By doing this you will either become more strongly motivated to achieve a desired outcome or realize that its achievement may not be worth the effort. In both cases you'll save time and energy and avoid potential disappointment and disruption in your life.

T really want you to think deeply about what you learn about yourself – your moods, the way you think the things you value, and the way you feel about life. Then truly honor what you've discovered about your inner self. When you know and honor yourself, you can put all your attention on the feelin’ o' yer inner

body.

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Introduction to comedy sketch at Jacoby Art Center 2013

Hello, my name is John and | live in Alton

I plan to live forever! So far, So good.

I'm a Real/tor. Before you pass judgment, let me tell you that in Illinois, ealtors are the 2nd (maybe third) largest professional licensed group. Not in- luding drivers license and hunting and fishing license.

Hairdressers are a hair a-head of us. 70% is a passing score for Realtors on all tests— there is no distinction

between 100% and 70%. We can miss 30% of the questions and finish in the op of our class.

I've done stand-up comedy. I thought I was good. Everybody really iked me when I sat down. But, I couldn't get a second booking.

In fact, If I get invited back for a second time, it will be the first time.

There were this penguin who walked into a bar

Successful entrepreneurs have determination, presence of mind and situational awareness. Add mutual caring, emotional commitment and tireless efforts to get things tight. The following profiles are about such people. You may know them. Bill is as tough as the leather he works, Brenda’s culinary talent nourishes her friends, and Asta is hardier that the strong trees she grows.

Alton’s Cobbler — Bill Wanger

Bill Wanger, has a small shop at the bottom of State Street hill. There he plies his trade in leather work which is a wanted and deeply appreciated service of Bill’s many customers. Bill repairs shoes, purses, handbags, belts and other leather goods. He also sells shoes, plus polish, laces, and belts.

There are 12 cobbler machines in his shop. They are lined up on one side of his shop. The machines are heavy and made specifically for cobbler work. He has sewing machines, sole and heel removers, and presses, and each one has a distinctive sound. Numerous small tools are in pockets of his blue cobbler’s apron. The tiny wood floored shop smells of new leather, saddle soap, plus Mink oil that I used on ball gloves and favorite boots.

Bill’s talents are his social skills which are on display every day he is in his shop. He reserves Sunday and Monday for his family and hobby. Bill is an excellent bass fisherman and has a proverbial secret little lake just south of Brighton.

An OPEN sign hangs on the front door of the shop, and is Bill’s only marketing activity, not counting the referrals of his clients/customers. He polishes every shoe (and its mate) he repairs and meets deadlines with an amazing on-time record.

I have been going there for years and have always found him in good spirits and ready to help. Most of the time there is a brief conversation about ‘how have you been’- with meaning. His sincerity is genuine.

If success is measured by doing what you want, and it benefits people, Bill is one of the most successful people I have every known.

For a small island, Ireland throughout her centuries has made a contribution to the world out of all proportion of her size and numbers. The Emerald Isle is not more than three hundred miles at its greatest length north to south, and about one hundred and seventy miles in its greatest width east to west. The Province of Munster produced St. Brendan the Navigator, who some considers may have reached America 900 years before Christopher Columbus. Cork, the Texas of Ireland, is the largest county of thirty-two in the whole country. The steady wind wind blows in from the Atlantic bringing a plentiful supply of rain and one can see a rainbow almost daily. Yet Ireland is little troubled with thunder, lighting and earthquakes. It is estimated that between 1717 and 1775, something like a quarter of million islanders settled in the North America continent. Many became frontiersmen of the new America with a love of freedom for themselves. Daniel Boone, was, of course, Daniel “Buhun“ of Irish stock. Davy Crockett was a son of an emigrant from Londonderry. Eight signatories on the Decoration of Independence are from Ireland.

Is this story good enough to submit to a newspaper, or a TV station?

Several years ago | invited

Dana Dean of KMOV Channel 4 — St. Louis, to come to Alton to do a story of a legendary mole hunter, Lefty Grove. He was in his ninety’s and had rid the Rolling Hills Golf course of more than 1100 moles over a period of time. It was appreciated not only by the owners of the course, the players liked his work because it helped make the fairways smoother.

Dana was equipped with a portable camera and recorder. She was impressed with Mr. Grove, not only for his zeal, but his simple tools – a short handled hoe converted into a nifty digging tool. When he noticed a active mole (movement of soil) Lefty became motionless. At the perfect time he struck and flipped out a mole.

After the shoot Dana promised a quick response of her visit. When it came out, Lefty Grove and his family were surprised and pleased. He gushed with thanks to me for arranging the shoot, and loved how well Dana had presented him and his moles reputation.

Dana, will you consider another story like the one of “Weird Alton?”

Is this story good enough to submit to a newspaper, or a TV station? Several years ago I invited Dana Dean of KMOV Channel 4 — St. Louis, to come to Alton to do a story of a legendary mole hunter, Lefty Grove. He was in his ninety’s and had rid the Rolling Hills Golf course of more than 1100 moles over a period of time. It was appreciated not only by the owners of the course, the players liked his work because it helped make the fairways smoother. Dana was equipped with a portable camera and recorder. She was impressed with Mr. Grove, not only for his zeal, but his simple tools – a short handled hoe converted into a nifty digging tool. When he noticed a active mole (movement of soil) Lefty became motionless. At the perfect time he struck and flipped out a mole. After the shoot Dana promised a quick response of her visit. When it came out, Lefty Grove and his family were surprised and pleased. He gushed with thanks to me for arranging the shoot, and loved how well Dana had presented him and his moles reputation.

Dana, will you consider another story like the one of “Weird Alton?”

MSNBC NOON. Jan 6 Committee – Second public hearing. 12:22 PM EST. ? asked. Bill Powell – Mr. Day. (3) Ms. LoGreca? 'Giuliani statements – were false.' Claimed – Richard Donahue – Re: smuggled votes – 'Not true.' Mr. Christian – no fraud found. False allegations – Pennsylvania – Barr (it was BS). [Donald Trump] claimed more votes than the population of the state. Witness – Mr. Smith(?) GOP city commissioner – claim 8,000 fraudulent votes – (2 were [legit]). Rudy Giuliani. Trump's reaction / threats – Family, Kids, Home. Trump is still scheming. And he's still a threat to democracy. 618-616. [32 / 365]

JANE AND JEAN

I met Jean rather abruptly one day on the old Springfield, IL courthouse square. Jean was eyeing jewelry and such in the display of a prominent Springfield jewelry store. She was more eye catching, to me, than what she was eyeballing and I remarked that to the three young men who had accompanied me during our lunchtime stroll at the square. We all worked at the office of the Secretary of State and liked to see the sights during lunchtime.

“I think that I will just go over to that girl and give her a hug,” I said to the fellows. “Yea, sure, betcha don’t,” and other comments of disbelief ensued. I did not need encouragement and strolled ove: to the girl and put my hand on her waist and said gently, “hello.” Her open hand made a slapping sound to my left cheek because she swung her right open hand at my face and I did not duck. “Jane”, I said, “it’s me.” She replied quickly, “Who are you?”

Jane had a twin, but I didn’t think about that at the time I made the bet with my friends. All I could think of was Jane. We even had a date for that Friday night. Suddenly, as my face flashed red from two reasons, it came to me that this was Jean at that store room window. “You’re Jean aren’t you? I remarked and Jean said, “Yes I am.” I apologized as much as she would let me and returned to my group who all had their hands out and were guffawing. They told everyone the story of my brazenness and crazy idea that I knew the prettiest girl they had seen in months. I told no one except Jane who told me how much fun she and Jean had laughing at my embarrassment.

Jane was pretty and so was Jean, but I dated Jane. She was living at home and it had to be by accident that I would ever meet her because I was not a Springfield native. But I did at the State Fair. She came by the booth I was working at — the Secretary of State’s Driver’s License booth — and even being as shy as I was, I had to talk to her. It was smitten at first sight. I called her and made a date for the next Friday.

Her dad met me at the door and sized me up, but he let me in the door and said Jane would be down in a minute. This was nervous time for me. Her dad asked me how old I was. I was 21, but I looked younger. Jane was almost 18 I think. He asked me what I did and I told him. He asked me where I was from and I told him. My answers were short, but it seemed like a long time before Jane came down stairs and we left in my 4-door green Ford. I wished it were a white Impala with pin stripes. Her father told her to be home by 11 and we made it.

I dated Jane for a while and each time I had to go to her house and go in and wait for her to come down stairs. Each time her dad met me at the door and asked me more questions. I was wearing on me answering all those questions. I wondered if he thought he could catch me in a lie or if he was grilling me to see that his daughter was going out with a proper date.

It was strange that I had never run into Jean all the time I was dating Jane until that day on the square. But after that time I began to fanaticize and think that I could be dating Jean and not know it. Our kisses were special and I thought how would it be kissing Jean, would it be the same? I wondered about a lot of things about Jane and Jean that I won’t write here. I was kinda confused I wondered if her dad grilled Jean’s dates like he did me. 1 wondered about Jane and Jean a lot and one day I didn’t. I guess I fell out of love with the twins.

rH peel

January is the month ta-dream, to look forward to the year ahead and ie journey within. A new chapter to be written. New questions to ask. Answers to be discovered. Only dreams give birth to change. This year

I will not make resolutions, but I will keep my aspirations in focus. These longings will be kept tucked away until the time seems right.

I will be grateful and find simplicity. I will see beauty; there will be order, harmony, and joy. I will recognize my authentic self. I will listen to my heart. I do not want to live unconsciously. I like living.

I have been racked with sorrow, loss, hurt, but still I know that just to be alive is a good thing.

I have a great need of someone. I believe that when you need you attract like a lover. I dig with my pen to excavate my real self. I can remember things if I have a pen and I write with it and play with it. My hand concentrates for me. I have a dialogue with myself and I listen to the wisdom I have to offer.

JEANS Buy a nice pair of jeans and wear’em when you can. Keep’em clean. You don’t have to iron them, but you can.

Hats Consider a hat or two. A hat can change you and make your friends notice you. Brave people wear hats.

EATING 1. Eat when you are hungry 2. Eat what you like 3. Enjoy every bite 4. Stop eating before you are full

POEMS Write a poem. Choose any subject to write about.

SWINGS Get in a swing and swing every chance you can. Kick your shoes off.

SONGS Ask yourself, “If I could only hear one song it would be “ Learn the lyrics

GOSSIP Don’rporr! WELL… talk softly.

TATTOOS Consider getting one but don’t. Later, consider getting one again.

ACCEPT COMPLIMENTS ‘When someone gives you a compliment say thank you, It’s the best response you can give

BIRTHDAYS Remember birthdays of your friends. You don’t have to remember their ages.

BUBBA Have at least one friend called “Bubba.”

LAUGH Laugh as much as you can, and out loud. Just make sure you don’t fake it.

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Jim Betts

News of Jim Betts death reminds us that we are never prepared to hear really bad news.

“Howdy John,” he would greet me and I'd reply, “How’s Jimmy,” and he would say, “Couldn’t be better.”

Our group happily bought quilt raffle tickets from Jimmy every year. He must have had 100 quilts that TWOCC (the Women of Calhoun County) arranged for him to win, obviously imagining themselves wrapped up with Jim wrapped up in their special quilt.

He always reminded me of U.S. Grant. The General and Jimmy never considered themselves more than ordinary men, but they rose to tall heights, accomplished remarkable feats and remained humble and uncommonly kind.

A few words sum up our feelings:

“We loved this man.”

2/22/2013 jrc

The original page will appear here.

The original page will appear here.

Judi doesn ’t feel well It’ s Christmas Eave at Seth and Hannah ’ s h/o_me in West Palm Beach, Fl/o_rida. Judi is curled up on a couch and watches TV. Her family is celebrating the holidays. There is laughter and conversations going on. Delightful snacks and drinks beckon party goers to try this and try that Laurie Lovely was bustling in the kitchen preparing pasta dishes, salads, a Christmas punch, and desserts, A table was set. On it were beautiful fresh flowers and holiday plates; colorful china, and shinning utensils were wrapped in a christmas napkin. Glasses were raised and toasts were made and everyone cheered. Shan’s pop top wrapped funnels released a gold crown and a present I got a silver pen. Lila, the dog, waved at everyone with her happy tail and nibbled a snack from Seth. Seth’s M-3 entertained us as it rocked, waved, turned it’s lights on, and rolled it’s windows and truck lid up and down. It got a cheer. Judi sat quietly.

Judi doesnt foot well /t4 Christnas Eave at Seth and Harrahs home in West Patn Beach, Florida.

Judi iy Curled up on a couch and watches TV.

Her family is celebrating the holidays. There is laughter and conversations going on.

Delightful snacks and drinks beckon party goers to try this and try that

Laurie Lovely was bustling in the kitchen preparing pasta dishes, salads, a Christmas punch, and desserts,

A table was set. On it were beautiful fresh flowers and holiday plates; colorful china, and shinning utensils were wrapped in a christmas napkin.

Glasses were raised and toasts were made and everyone cheered.

Shan’s pop top wrapped funnels released a gold crown and a present | got a silver pen.

Lila, the dog, waved at everyone with her happy tail and nibbled a snack from Seth.

Seth's M-3 entertained us as it rocked, waved, turned it’s lights on, and rolled it’s windows and truck lid up and down. It got a cheer.

This morning, Saturday, July 29, 2022, I took a note book and a pen when I went to the Farmers market. I wasn’t looking for vegetables, fruit or a knick-knack, I was seeking inspiration and ideas and a way to get unstuck in my life.

I used a few questions and comments with friends who were vendors and also new vendors I had not met. I usually started with quizzing them about their goods and why they chose them. They were happy to let me know how much they loved what they did.

I said I was looking for inspiration and ideas. I wrote some of their comments in my note book and they liked that. I had never done this before and was surprised that they were so eager to be of help. I talked to 10 or so vendors.

I was attracted by a vendor who had a display of art objects, wood carvings, and had-made items. She was Black. She had an accent. I asked her where her home was, where she was born. She replied Gahanna. I asked how long had she lived in America. She replied 20 years. She added I want to go home sometime. I didn’t press her and said I would return for an item I liked that she had made, a wooden bead wrist bracelet. She said, I want you to meet my husband.

I made my rounds before deciding on what I would buy and from a vendor. I collected them and returned to the lady from Ghana and bought the bracelets that I would give away to friends. She said her husband was there and waved at a gentleman sitting in the shade near the tent. I want over, introduced myself. I led him to talk about his home land and he was accommodating. We talked about government – Ghana has a democracy; schooling, religion, family life and raising children. He talked freely and liked to talk of his home land.

He is a Professor at SIUE located in Edwardsville, IL. His name is Anthony M. Denkyirah. He has a Ph.D. He has classes on Health and Human behavior. His responses to my questions and queries provided insight to his life.

This morning, Saturday, July 29, 2022, I took a note book and a pen when I went to the Farmers market. I wasn’t looking for vegetables, fruit or a knick-knack, I was seeking inspiration and ideas and a way to get unstuck in my life. I used a few questions and comments with friends who were vendors and also new vendors I had not met. I usually started with quizzing them about their goods and why they chose them. They were happy to let me know how much they loved what they did. I said I was looking for inspiration and ideas. I wrote some of their comments in my note book and they liked that. I had never done this before and was surprised that they were so eager to be of help. I talked to 10 or so vendors. I was attracted by a vendor who had a display of art objects, wood carvings, and had-made items. She was Black. She had an accent. I asked her where her home was, where she was born. She replied Gahanna. I asked how long had she lived in America. She replied 20 years. She added I want to go home sometime. I didn’t press her and said I would return for an item I liked that she had made, a wooden bead wrist bracelet. She said, I want you to meet my husband. I made my rounds before deciding on what I would buy and from a vendor. I collected them and returned to the lady from Ghana and bought the bracelets that I would give away to friends. She said her husband was there and waved at a gentleman sitting in the shade near the tent. I want over, introduced myself. I led him to talk about his home land and he was accommodating. We talked about government – Ghana has a democracy; schooling, religion, family life and raising children. He talked freely and liked to talk of his home land. He is a Professor at SIUE located in Edwardsville, IL. His name is Anthony M. Denkyirah. He has a Ph.D. He has classes on Health and Human behavior. His responses to my questions and queries provided insight to his life.

Everybody had junk drawers. I have several: Civil War junk; family junk; golf junk; work junk; food junk; computer junk; pictures junk; money (pennies/nickels) junk; business card junk; notes with phone numbers junk; medicine junk; buttons and needles junk; American flag pins; baseball junk; tickets that must be saved; pens, pencils, refills junk; tools junk; tape, paperclip, hooks, nails, wire, glue, paste junk; medicine cabinet junk; car junk; cleaning junk; clothes junk; and JUNK. Oh yes, hats, caps, gloves, scarves, old rain jackets junk; bills junk; post card junk (and old stamps on wrinkled pages); glasses junk; and little glass screws and magnifying glass (but where is the tiny screwdriver when I really need it?) Is this normal? Could be!

I’m afraid to throw some of the junk away. It looks good, feels good, tastes good, and just maybe I’ll need one of those 2,000 tees. I’ve been thinking of framing those pictures. I need to write good old so and so. I’ve been looking for this a long time and I think I'll put it right there so I won’t forget it. Look, there is a picture of Jim when he was 14, isn’t he cute? I wonder what ever happened to the red handled tool like this one? Is this medicine still OK? There’s just a bit of cleaning stuff in this can and I can clean something right now. I should have put the pennies in a larger container. This hat pin would look good on my USA cap. What’s lighter fluid doing here, it belongs with the golf junk. Are these batteries good? Here’s the instruction booklet on the last phone. I’m tired but not finished. I'll get a bit to eat and drink and get back to this soon.

When I finish an exhausting period of sorting junk to throw away I am tired and need a break. I’ll group some of the stuff and put some of it in order and put some of the junk here and there in drawers, bins, jars, closets, and hope it doesn’t need to be found soon. I’m amazed that some of the stuff does not appear until I decide to clean out some junk again. Right now I'm into taking all my really important business cards and putting them on my Palm computer so that they never get lost again, but | may need to save them just in case the Palm goes on the blink and loses them. I’m also going to sort my writings and paper again into Family, War, Business, poems and stories. Then, I’ll sort pens and pencils and markers…and take them to a nursing home and give them away, or to a nursery or pre-school. That’s what I will do.

Bored to tears and desperation. Just a few more …….. until I’m back up to normal or almost normal speed so that I’m out and about collecting stuff to bring home. This time it must be really good stuff. I’m considering going some where with nothing but the clothes on my back (well maybe a few things like a shaving kit, a couple of changes of clothes, (what if it rains — better take a rain jacket) and I may buy some perishable food and I’ll need a cooler, perhaps a camera or binoculars, loafers, tennis shoes, sandals, a cap, sunglasses, back up glasses, a drink cup, sun screen, beach towel (you never know), a book or two, aspirin, pocket knife, map, and what other items I may need. I’ve got room and it’s better to be safe than sorry isn’t it? Leaving on the spur of the moment is not likely.

Then, I am going to concentrate on the important things in life. My junk days are going to be behind me. Do you believe this? Of course you don’t, but it makes you think of the junk you have. The endless junk piles of my life are my life it seems. It’s not exciting.

I’m getting much better thank you. The 11 inch scars on my left forearm, left calf, and right down the center of my chest are scars that will not go away. Actually, all three scars have a bit of a curve to them and there are three red Xs on my tummy where three tubes once were. There is a slight discomfort in the lower portion of the calf and I can feel a slight pain in my chest when I turn this way or that, and the numbness in my left wrist is uncomfortable enough not to wear a watch on my left wrist. I have not taken a pain pill in over 3 weeks. I pronounce me 82% normal. That’s much higher than most people would pronounce me. But I want to be 90% at least before tackling stuff that I tackled before. I’m not up for climbing, carrying big weights, running races, or even playing golf. Soon. I can and do work about 6-7 hours a week (up from my pre operation days), and I spend a lot of time planning and preparing meals that work for me. I have had one burger (grilled) and the few meat dishes are limited to 3-4 ounce servings. Skim milk, not whole, low fat cheese, ….. how boring.

Writing has kept me from going into a slump. This is not the first therapy session for me to keep out of depression. I deal with it.

Everybody had junk drawers. I have several: Civil War junk; family junk; golf junk; work junk; food junk; computer junk; pictures junk; money (pennies/nickels) junk; business card junk; notes with phone numbers junk; medicine junk; buttons and needles junk; American flag pins; baseball junk; tickets that must be saved; pens, pencils, refills junk; tools junk; tape, paperclip, hooks, nails, wire, glue, paste junk; medicine cabinet junk; car junk; cleaning junk; clothes junk; and JUNK. Oh yes, hats, caps, gloves, scarves, old rain jackets junk; bills junk; post card junk (and old stamps on wrinkled pages); glasses junk; and little glass screws and magnifying glass (but where is the tiny screwdriver when I really need it?) Is this normal? Could be!

I’m afraid to throw some of the junk away. It looks good, feels good, tastes good, and just maybe I'll need one of those 2,000 tees. I’ve been thinking of framing those pictures. I need to write good old so and so. T’ve been looking for this a long time and I think I’ll put it right there so ] won’t forget it. Look, there is a picture of Jim when he was 14, isn’t he cute? 1 wonder what ever happened to the red handled tool like this one? Is this medicine still OK? There’s just a bit of cleaning stuff in this can and I can clean something right now. I should have put the pennies in a larger container. This hat pin would look good on my USA cap. What’s lighter fluid doing here, it belongs with the goif junk. Are these batteries good? Here’ the instruction booklet on the last phone. I’m tired but not finished. I’ll get a bit to eat and drink and get back to this soon.

When I finish an exhausting period of sorting junk to throw away I am tired and need a break. I'll group some of the stuff and put some of it in order and put some of the junk here and there in drawers, bins, jars, closets, and hope it doesn’t need to be found soon. I’m amazed that some of the stuff does not appear until J decide to clean out some junk again. Right now I’m into taking all my really important business cards and putting them on my Palm computer so that they never get lost again, but I may need to save them just in case the Palm goes on the blink and loses them. I’m also going to sort my writings and paper again into Family, War, Business, poems and stories. Then, T'll sort pens and pencils and markers…and take them to a nursing home and give them away, or to a nursery or pre-school. That's what I will do

Bored to tears and desperation. Just a few more …….. until I’m back up to normal or almost normal speed so that I’m out and about collecting stuff to bring home. This time it must be really good stuff. I'm considering going some where with nothing but the clothes on my back (well maybe a few things like a shaving kit, a couple of changes of clothes, (what if it rains — better take a rain jacket) and I may buy some perishable food and I'll need a cooler, perhaps a camera or binoculars, loafers, tennis shoes, sandals, a cap, sunglasses, back up glasses, a drink cup, sun screen, beach towel (you never know), a book or two, aspirin, pocket knife, map, and what other items I may need. I’ve got room and it’s better to be safe than sorry isn’t it? Leaving on the spur of the moment is not likely

Then, I am going to concentrate on the important things in life. My junk days are going to be behind me. Do you believe this? Of course you don’t, but it makes you think of the junk you haye. The endless junk piles of my life are my life it seems. It’s not exciting.

I'm getting much better thank you. The 11 inch scars on my left forearm, left calf, and right down the center of my chest are scars that will not go away. Actually, all three scars have a bit of a curve to them and there are three red Xs on my tummy where three tubes once were. There is a slight discomfort in the lower portion of the calf and I can feel a slight pain in my chest when I turn this way or that, and the numbness in my left wrist is uncomfortable enough not to wear a watch on my left wrist. I have not taken a pain pill in over 3 weeks. I pronounce me 82% normal. That’s much higher than most people would pronounce me. But I want to be 90% at least before tackling stuff that I tackled before. I’m not up for climbing, carrying big weights, running races, or even playing golf. Soon. I can and do work about 6-7 hours a week (up from my pre operation days), and I spend a lot of time planning and preparing meals that work for me. I have had one burger (grilled) and the few meat dishes are limited to 3-4 ounce servings. Skim milk, not whole, low fat cheese, ….. how boring.

Writing has kept me from going into a slump. This is not the first therapy session for me to keep out of depression. I deal with it.

Shan, Just a note to accompany the contents.

For a long time I have struggled to make my apartment comfortable, clean and inviting. It has not always been that way. I have become a bit obsessed with everything about the apartment. At times it is excellent, uncluttered, bright and other times, drab, cluttered and uncomfortable. I move things around, took some stuff to the attic and some to the basement. Some are pitched. I believe the latter is best as things will not again appear. My furnishings are modest, even cheap, but I don't think of them like that. I try things out. I sit in chairs, at tables, and read or write. I'd like for them to be permanent, but, it rarely happens; something has to be moved.

Furnishings, odds and ends, knick-knacks are forever popping up and have to be put here or there; Lamps, table coverings, a holder or a place to put my keys, wallet, phone. I haven't lost a thing in a long time though because I now place things together for my needs. I can find a nail, a paper clip, a box of matches, my keys, or a pair of scissors or pliers. So, I guess I'm improving. It does take me more time to get ready for work or to play golf, or just go to the grocery store. I generally make lists for supplies or errands. When I don't, invariably I will miss something and it's across town.

I have done a lot organizing clothes too. Same with golf stuff. For a time golf was not in my sights. I just left clubs alone. Not now, I've regained a desire to improve and must work at it to gain confidence. Clothes are a different matter. I want a style of relaxed comfort and a degree of sameness. Jeans and a white shirt and nice shoes or boots have gained a hold. I went to greys, for pants, shirts, and tees. I'm still there, but grey's are dropping in appeal to me. My dress/casual long sleeve shirts are primarily white. I have a few checks, stripes, and patterns. I plan to purchase brighter/louder casual shirts of high quality and weed out the "almost looks good shirts". Slacks and pants will be weeded out. I haven't seemed to want to wear darker ones, but not too light either. The higher quality kaki's look and feel better, and I may have to have them tailored for better fits.

I have recently given away about 20 cotton golf shirts with an assortment of styles and colors. Some were out of style, both in fabric and cut. White, blue, red predominates for me. I think I will be pleased with a few shirts that fit and look good than 20 or 30 maybes. No more goodwill shopping for me. I have given away 4 pair of golf shoes and glad they are gone. I have two pair and they may go soon. A light pair and a sturdy pair will be enough for me, but I'm looking for a nice model. I can't believe I still have a dozen caps and hats either. I will again select a color and model I like and toss the others.

My beard and whiskers are gone. Wasn't me. I can grow them again if I want. They were started as a time memory — George. And my mourning time has passed. I will go to a better salon for my next hair cut. It's something I need to do.

Shan, I believe my changes are a result of feeling better- health wise. I still take my pills, eat well and get rest and water is my choice of drinks. I have a gin and tonic (or two) and have a few bottles of beer in a week. I read more than I write. Asta said I complain less and don't talk about myself as much as I used to. I give things to others. I tip more. I am happy, more alive, energetic, optimistic and fun to be around.

The original page will appear here.

KEITH LAW He stands tall among men-and taller among friends.

He's quick to smile and he laughs easily. His anger lasts three feet-one step, or the time it takes blood to drop from his head to his heart-that's“three foot drop.

He hits hard and putts soft.

His jaws tighten when it's in the "jaws". Actually, he treats twelve footers as one and ones. You have to make the first one or go on defer$e.

He says that women should use irons-at home and not on the golf course.

But ladies, his irons are hollow

and what exactly does that say?

He says thank you graciously when complemented and in turn his compliments are sincere – and scarce.

When he wins, and that's often, with all kinds of partners, in all kinds of weather, on all kinds of golf courses, he does the same thing. He quietly folds his money and puts it in his "TIGHT" jeans.

He has a high threshhold of tolerance, high standards, high ideals, high expectations and when he wins a HIGH STEP.

As tough as he is, as good as he is, as high as he is, as bad as he is, as nice as he is, as mean as he is, he is not an enforcer, but

he is THE LAW!

John Casey 3/30/87

KEITH LAW He stands tall among men-and taller among friends.

He's quick to smile and he laughs easily. His anger lasts three feet-one step, or the time it takes blood to drop fran his head to his heart+that's“three foot drop.

He hits hard and putts soft,

His jaws tighten when it's in the "jaws".

Actually, he treats twelve footers as one and ones. You have to make the First one or go on defenfe,

He says that women should use irons-at home and ‘not on the golf course.

But ladies, his irons are hollow

and what exactly does that say?

He says thank you graciously when complemented and in turn his compliments are sincere – and scarce.

When he wins, and that's often, with all kinds of Partners, in all kinds of weather, on all kinds of golf courses, he does the same thing. He quietly folds his money and puts it in his "TIcHr" jeans.

He has a high threshhold of tolerance, high standards, high ideals, high expectations and when he wins a HIGH STEP.

As tough as he is, as good as he is, as high as he is, as bad as he is, as nice as he is, as mean as he is, he is not an enforcer 7 but

he is THE LAW!

John Casey 3/30/87

Hirid Poop

I seek stories of kind people and the things they do to make others glad to know them and the contributions they make for the good of the planet. I have written vignettes and proudly give them to the people I write about.

Asta Sudakalas is one of the kind people I have met and wrote about. She owns and single-handily runs the greenery nursery on Delmar St. in Godfrey. Her fame is sealed by her commitment to raising plants and providing them for her friends, clients, and customers. It’s also because she is such a character. Halloween and Christmas is a time when her creativeness and mischievous nature erupts.

Asta emigrated from middle Europe to the United States in 1948 with her mother and father and two brothers. She didn’t speak English, but quickly learned it and became an outstanding student. She graduated from the University of Illinois with an Art Degree. Later, she returned to Univ of IL and obtained a degree in Agronomy. She followed her love of nature and became the owner and operator of a marvelous little plant nursery in Godfrey, IL. Her artistry contributes to the success of her nursery. Asta is Old World Savvy and extraordinarily generous and kind to people. She is knowledgeable about “things” that grow.

She says her nursery is a work place. It is. She wears a uniform to work: a pair of denim bib overalls, a white shirt, and boots. She has two working pickup trucks, one red, and the other black. A small tractor is also used to handling chores at the nursery, including mixing potting soil in a unique pull behind rolling container that mixes soil and nutrients just perfect for growing plants.

A Quonset hut green house for baby and new plants has a stand-up counter and office. A small pool just outside the green house contains a dozen plus gold fish, frogs, and aquatic plants. There is a standup cooler with soft drinks, free to anyone who stops by for a visit. A cane break on one side of the nursery acts as a fence and provides garden poles for customers.

Asta lives in a custom and timeless chalet style house on the nursery grounds. It blends into the natural setting of the land. It is designed by her and fits her style both inside and out. She has a wood framed outdoor shower, decorated, of course, with art and plants. There a lighted wash basin and a small refrigerator on the counter.

She does not use a computer or digital devices to help her with anything, yet her business hums along nicely. She answers her own phone before the third ring. She has a great sense of humor, and laughs loudly often.

Asta is good to the earth, an artist, a culinary genius, and just about the most unique person anyone will ever meet.

Thanks,

John Casey

435 4 Bluff St. Alton, IL 62002 618-670-5646

jreasey134@gmail.com (best way to contact me) 532

My smooth-writing Pen doesn't seem to want to stop and get off and do the chores. It's therapy.

I went to a knife & tool show yesterday. I took six kitchen knives, planning to get them sharpened. At $10.00 a blade, I took them home with me vowing I would sharpen 2–3.

A gentleman there was a champion of the TV show "Forged in Fire." He won in 2017 — the first year, and on the third program. His prize was $10,000 — he made a weapon, a hammer and blade. He proudly showed me a photo. I watch the "Forged in Fire" show often and shudder at some of the gore I see.

A pretty Lady at the knife show also had a [table?] at the show. She was engaging and asked to talk about her knives. There were thousands of [traders?] — [close encounters?]; no one wore a mask.

On my way home I stopped at an old-time bar I used to frequent for a pair of Blue Moons in a frosted mug. A White [Johnson's Corridor?] fish (it was a Lent day) sandwich tasted great. The owner, age 52, said she had begun working there since her [grandpa's?] day. A hefty gentleman came in the bar for the same reason as I did — fish & a glass of beer. He was a regular, asked questions and made conversation. He sat next to me and Ukraine came up. He had married a beautiful Ukrainian. He showed photos and talked about the people, schooling, socializing and helping each other. It was a treat to listen to him and see photos. He said he had visited Ukraine eight times. He said he couldn't afford his wife and they divorced. She is still a friend and had helped people during the Covid Pandemic. He said most Russians favored Ukrainians and admired them for how hard they fought for their Country. My 20–30 minute visit increased to about an hour. [lunch]

The original page will appear here.

My mother and father taught me and so did my siblings, relatives, and friends. My father taught me to rake leaves, cultivate a garden, and pick corn, mow grass, and cut weeds. From him, I learned to pour concrete, clean out gutters and wells, install a windowpane, sweep the walk, dig a posthole, ride a horse, milk a cow, butcher a hog, and train a dog.

My mother, sisters, and aunts taught me to sew buttons on garments; to quilt, stretch curtains and mend socks. J learned to wash, hang, and iron clothes; can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. I learned to cook and how bread rises (well maybe not how bread rises).

My brothers taught me to walk rails, swim, climb trees, and shoot slingshots, a rifle, pistol and a shotgun.

I learned to sharpen knives, use a hammer and screwdriver, a saw, an axe, and split firewood.

I learned to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, corncobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools of water. I learned to play ball, hit bottle caps; jump, run, crawl, and scoot. I learned to slide, fall, skip and tumble, and to get up, brush off, and keep going.

I learned to catch and clean fish, and to eat them

– carefully. I learned to hunt and respect game. I learned to cut down trees and steal honey from a beehive.

I learned about nature and animals; to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in the woods and fields. I

saw and marveled at tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews,

rain drops and icicles. From their tracks, | learned to identify the animals that made them. I learned about, creeks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass, and fire. I learned from the stars, sun, moon, the wind, rain, snow, darkness and light.

I learned to read and write. I never learned to sing, but I can sing along. And, most of all, I learned to say “thank you” to all of my teachers. [| was your student.

John Casey 2000 344

a . —s | worked for food and shelter.

My mother and father taught me, and my brothers also taught me. Relatives, friends,

and enemies taught me. Animals and birds taught me. Crecks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass taught me. | was taught by fire too. | learned from the stars, sun, moon, the wind, rain, snow, darkness and light. | learned in the morning, midday and into the night. Everything in my life taught me.

learned to rake leaves from my father and brothers. | learned to walk rails, climb

rees, and shoot slingshots. | learned to mow grass and cut weeds with a cycle.

learned to shoot a rifle, a pistol, anda shotgun. | learned to sharpen knives, to use a

saw, hamer, screwdriver and split firewood. | learned to fish and to clean and eat them

fa)

arefully

learned to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, comcobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools

of water. | learned to hit balls, bottle caps, tennis balls, and | also learned to catch. |

learned how to play golf, but that was much later in life. | learned to jump, run, crawl, play & jump,

and scoot. | learned to slide, fall, skip and tumble.

learned to sew on buttons, quilt and mend socks. | learned to wash, hang, and iron clothes. | learned to can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. | learned to

cook and how bread rises (well maybe not how bread rises).

learned to cut down trees, steal honey froma bee- hive, and use an axe anda wedge.

learned to read and write. | never learned to sing,

learned to hunt. | learned to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in view. | saw little tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews, and raindrops and icicles. | learned

to identify tracks in the ground and on snow.

corned toidealhores, nile cow, butchers hog, train a deg, pithcom, plantard cultivate a garden. | could pour concrete, clean out gutters, install a windowpane, sweep the walk, and diga posthole. These things | learned. | have great respect for

learning, | ama student and life is my teacher.

omid- clus re Seno

My mother and fat) md so did my siblings, relatives, and friends. My father taught me to rake leaves, cultivate a garden, and pick corn, mow grass, and cut weeds. From him, I learned to pour concrete, clean out gutters and wells, install a windowpane, sweep the walk, dig a posthole, ride a horse, milk a cow, butcher a hog, and train a dog.

My mother, sisters, and aunts taught me to sew buttons on garments; to quilt, stretch curtains and mend socks. I learned to wash, hang, and iron clothes; can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. I learned to cook and how bread rises (well maybe not how bread rises).

My brothers taught me to walk rails, swim, climb trees, and shoot slingshots, a rifle, pistol and a shotgun.

I learned to sharpen knives, use a hammer and screwdriver, a saw, an axe, and split firewood.

I learned to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, corncobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools of water. I learned to play ball, hit bottle caps; jump, run, crawl, and scoot. I learned to slide, fall, skip and tumble, and to get up, brush off, and keep going.

I learned to catch and clean fish, and to eat them – carefully. I learned to hunt and respect game. I learned to cut down trees and steal honey from a beehive.

I learned about nature and animals; to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in the woods and fields. I

saw and marveled at tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews,

rain drops and icicles. From their tracks, I learned to identify the animals that made them. | learned about, creeks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass, and fire. | learned from the stars, sun, moon, the wind, rain, snow, darkness and light.

I learned to read and write. I never learned to sing, but I can sing along. And, most of all, I learned to say “thank you” to all of my teachers. I was your student.

John Casey 2000 344

I’m not the best company to many people. I’m not. A pat on my head by a kind caregiver welcomed me. I’m humbled. I share my life.

I’ve seen the good people share their good kindness and regret my occasional blow-ups and behavior. There is no “I’m sorry” when I hurt someone or hurt someone who needs a boost.

Two ladies at my table for meals have become enjoyable company. We share our food.

Trade something to them. Seldom do they say Lor me it’s all for one another.

I like to be with them. We talk to each other, and help each other. Yesterday, I was assigned a different table because?? No one spoke a word to me. I ate some food, drank something and went to my room.

I’m a nervous pain in the ass. Absurd! Jacob and | went to the supermarket and I bought $30 worth of this and that. The variety overwhelmed me with junk food because of too many choices.

My thoughts were on Evergreen, a three-room-place, where | may live. My lost phone was found. I was sitting on it. It was in my stroller seat.

Calm down. Go to therapy. Eat real food. Inspect living quarters. Obtain hip wrap. Jim Loveall and golf partner is a recent addition to me in rehab. He’s fallen several times because of both knees and back. His hands won’t make a fist. I sat next to him several times. Our conversations were 90% about Jim. His wife visits daily and they talk about Jim. Now, | acknowledge him and talk about Jim.

1 usually have a big headache in the P.M. and it’s hard to sleep soundly. Pills make me groggy. I will ask primary care Dr. for help.

pass

Get a heat pad from Walmart for the left hip. O % me

I’m not the best company to many people. I’m not. A pat on my head by a kind caregiver welcomed me. I’m humbled. I share my life.

I’ve seen thé good people share their good kindness and regret my occasional blow-ups and behavior. There is no “I’m sorry” when | hurt someone or hurt someone who needs a boost.

Two ladies at my table for meals have become enjoyable company. We share our food.

Trade something to them. Seldom do they say | or me it’s all for one another.

I like to be with them. We talk to each other, and help each other. Yesterday, I was assigned a different table because?? No one spoke a word to me. I ate some food, drank something and went to my room.

I’m a nervous pain in the ass. Absurd! Jacob and I went to the supermarket and I bought $30 worth of this and that. The variety overwhelmed me with junk food because of too many choices.

My thoughts were on Evergreen, a three-room-place, where I may live. My lost phone was found. | was sitting on it. It was in my stroller seat.

Calm down. Go to therapy. Eat real food. Inspect living quarters. Obtain hip wrap. Jim Loveall and golf partner is a recent addition to me in rehab. He’s fallen several times because of both knees and back. His hands won’t make a fist. | sat next to him several times. Our conversations were 90% about Jim. His wife visits daily and they talk about Jim. Now, 1 acknowledge him and talk about Jim.

J usually have a big headache in the P.M. and it’s hard to sleep soundly. Pills make me groggy. I will ask primary care Dr. for help.

rom pars

. we Get a heat pad from Walmart for the left hip. OQ G5

When we are empty enough to let the Tao flow through us we can get in the flow. Be attentive of the hazards ahead of you, but empty yourself of the fear of them.

Learn from every mistake, but empty yourself of any shred of self-hatred for your imperfections.

Compete, but empty yourself of shame that you are not measuring up. I am more Taoist than Christian. Tao is a philosophy, not a religion.

Concept is an opinion of certain way to look at things. For some, “life is just a bunch of stuff that happens, and then you die.” For some golf is just a game.

One man may make enormous strides on his inner journey while staying at home on in his office, whereas another may travel the world without enlarging his horizons.

One does not get from here to there in a straight line.

I learn a lot about myself in the process of playing golf. The worship of score is a temptation of golf. It misses the point.

90% of my motivation is to get rid of clutter. I do not want to be hemmed in by memorabilia, past awards, obsolete correspondence.

I strive for spiritual discipline and spiritual practice with mystical celebration of remembrances.

Sometimes I write only a page or less. Each word squeezed out like a tiny, worthless little turd. What a waste of time. Yet when I come back to these few words they are likely to strike me as neat and my best work.

I have no capacity to assess the quality of what I write. For that matter, | am the same way about my life. Sometimes when I am frustrated, or have fear and depression and even despair, my writing turned out to be my finest.

A few of my poems are pretty good. An equal number of them are pretty awful. I have no idea whether one or the other emerges. My words seem to flow naturally and I may have filled as many as a dozen pages. Wow! I think — I was really hot today. Only later, I'll come back to those dozen pages and they'll mostly strike me as crap and in obvious need of reconstruction surgery.

April 28, 2011

Mr. Donald Trump Trump Tower

725 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10022

Dear Mr. Trump:

I would vote for you. You, to me, are defined by a single statement, “Now we can move on.” Distracters and naysayers stunt progress and can’t move beyond yesterday. You are not so encumbered, which is refreshing.

Every Sunday evening I collect a pen and pad and watch your TV show and. compete with the celebrities. First, I listen to and write down the instructions. Then I focus on the concept, time, budget, and then the people who will mix and meld the project to fruition. Now we can move on.

Thanks for your contribution to golf. Some say I have an unorthodox golf swing, but I focus on the target on every shot. Perhaps some day I’ll play on one of your courses.

Very truly

John Casey (born 10/30/40) 435 2 Bluff St.

Alton, IL 62002 jrcasey134@ gmail.com

I'm genuinely pleased to be with Casey's from everywhere and don't we all believe that we came from essentially the same place – like Ireland, or is it Texas, Oklahoma, or Illinois?

I'm from Illinois and I claim that “Southern Illinois is my home town.” It's true that I feel that way. Why? I've been almost everywhere in the true Southern Illinois, just a bit south of here, Mt. Vernon where I lived for 18 years (until 2001).

But I'm not here to talk about me and I don't think I can handle all of the stories that abound in this room. I'll add one though about a relative of mine, of yours, a Casey. Please understand that I did not know him personally, but I would have been privileged to have been with him. I am honored by him as you will be too. You see, it is up to us to keep our family a family.

Levi Burnside Casey. He attained a rank of Captain in the Union Army. He was promoted on the battle field at Vicksburg, MS to Brevet

Major. That was just before he entered “The Crater” on June 26th and was fatally wounded. He died on June 29, 1863.

His story didn't start there, nor did it end there. I'll tell you about him.

Levi Burnside Casey

On my high school sr. trip (Vienna, 1958) our class visited Vicksburg, MS. A highlight of the trip was a visit to the magnificent IL monument where the names of 36,325 Illinois troops who served at Vicksburg are engraved on the interior wall, including Levi B. Casey, my great, great uncle.

Levi B. Casey, born, Jan. 25, 1826 in Johnson Co., IL was the son of Randolph Casey, and the great, great nephew of Gen. Levi Casey of the Revolutionary War. On Feb. 26, 1846 Levi married Angeline Norman; they had four children and lived in Sulpher Springs, Williamson Co, IL.

On Aug. 27, 1861 Levi enlisted for 3 years in Company C (later Co, D) 31st IL. Vol. Inf. The company commanders were Col. John A. Logan and Lt. Col. John H. White.

I traveled the same path taken by Levi in his sojourns in the Civil War, starting at Caro where Casey was camped at Camp Defiance in the autumn of 1861. I continued to travel in Casey’s steps all the way to Vicksburg and the very site where he was killed in 1863. — Wren?

On Nov 7, 1861, the 31st IL Vol7Saw its first action at Belmont,

MO. Ulysses Grant, recently promoted to Brig. Gen., was in charge of the

regiment. On Feb 7, the 31st was, involved in the taking of Ft. Henry, and at the siege and capture of Ft. Donelson on the 16‘. Effective 1 Mar, 1862, 1st Lt. Casey was promoted to the rank of Captain and put in charge of Co. D. Comrmry The unit stayed at Ft. Donelson until Apr 22. From there it moved to Pittsburg Landing (Shiloh), and then to Corinth, MS. and on to Jackson, TN, where it spent the summer of 1862. It scouted in the direction of Memphis and Cornith, MS. returning to Jackson on October 6, 1862. On the 27% of Oct Casey wrote a letter of resignation to the 31st IL. His reason was given as to the condition of his family. Major Gen Grant’s y” y) reply said, “The resignation of Capt. L.B. Casey is not accepted. By order a eae . of Major General Grant, 29 October, 1862”. Casey decided to go home n anyway. While he was making his way back to the 31st he was arrested at Lagrange, TN for desertion. Through Gen Logan, a friend of Lincoln, Levi applied for release and reinstatement of his rank. It was denied by Gen. Sherman. By order of Brig. Gen. Logan, on Jan, 1, 1863, Casey was released from arrest and charges were withdrawn, his rank returned. On Jan. 10%, Casey linked up with his unit at LaGrange, TN. From there the 31st proceeded to

Memphis. yet On Mar. 27, the Union Army arrived at Millikep“Bend where Grant’s Vicksburg campaign officially began. On 29, Union

gunboats pounded the Grand Gulf fortifications but failed to dislodge the Rebels and Grant withdrew his troops.

Levi Burnside Casey

On my high school senior trip (Vienna, IL 1958) our class visited the Civil War Battle field in Vicksburg, MS. A highlight was the IL monument where the names of 36,325 IL troops who served at Vicksburg are engraved on the interior wall, including Levi B. Casey, my great, great uncle.

Years later I took the same path Levi took in his sojourns in the Civil War. I started at Cairo where he was camped at Camp Defiance in the autumn of 1861. I continued to follow his steps to Vicksburg and to the very place he was killed in 1863.

Levi B. Casey, born, Jan. 25, 1826 in Johnson Co IL was the son of Randolph Casey, and the great, great nephew of Gen. Levi Casey of the Revolutionary War. On Feb. 26, 1846 Levi married Angeline Norman; they had four children and lived in Sulpher Springs, Williamson Co IL.

On Aug. 27, 1861 Levi enlisted for 3 years in Co. C (later Co, D) 31st IL. Vol. Inf. The company commanders were Col. John A. Logan and Lt. Col. John H. White.

On Nov 7, 1861, the 31st IL Vol. saw its first action at Belmont, MO. U.S. Grant, just promoted to Brig. Gen., was in charge of the regiment. On Feb 7, the 31st was involved in the taking of Ft. Henry, and at the siege and capture of Ft. Donelson on the 16‘. Effective 1 Mar, 1862, 1st Lt. Casey was promoted to the rank of Captain and put in charge of Co. D.

The unit stayed at Ft. Donelson until Apr 22. From there it moved to Pittsburg Landing (Shiloh), and then to Corinth, MS and on to Jackson, TN where it spent the summer of 1862. It scouted in the direction of Memphis and Corinth, MS returning to Jackson on Oct 6.

On Oct 27, Casey submitted his resignation to the 31st IL. His reason was given as the condition of his family. Maj. Gen Grant’s reply said, “The resignation of Capt. L.B. Casey is not accepted. By order of Major General Grant, 29 October, 1862”. Casey decided to go home anyway. While he was making his way back to the 31st he was arrested for desertion.

Through Brig. Gen Logan, a friend of Lincoln, Levi applied for release and reinstatement of his rank. It was denied by Maj. Gen. Sherman. By order of Brig. Gen. Logan, on Jan, 1, 1863, Casey was released from arrest and charges were withdrawn; his rank returned. On Jan. 10, he linked up with his unit at LaGrange, TN.

On Mar. 27, the Union Army arrived at Milliken’s Bend where Grant’s Vicksburg, MS campaign began. On Apr 29, Union gunboats pounded the Grand Gulf fortifications but failed to dislodge the Rebels and Grant withdrew his troops.

The Boats:

The Keelboat — designed by Lewis and constructed in Pittsburgh. It was about 55 feet long and 8 feet wide and had a 32-ft. mast hinged at the bottom, a square sail, and a retractable roof. It drew 3 to 4 ft of water, had a cabin and a crew up to 27. As many as 12 poles or 22 oars at a time could be used. Two swivel guns were mounted near the cabin — one on each side. It carried perhaps 12 tons of cargo when loaded. It made it to the first winter quarters in North Dakota and in the spring of 1805 it returned to St. Louis, carrying men, specimens and reports.

The Red Pirogue — was 41 feet long, had room for a crew of up to 8 and cargo up to 9 tons.

The White Pirogue, about 35 ft long, made of poplar had a square sail, a cargo of up to 8 tons and a crew of up to six. It was the largest craft to return to St. Louis.

Dugout Canoes. The crew carved 15 canoes by hand during its journey. Empty, each weighed more than a ton. It took 16 men a month to carve their first six canoes from felled trees. Near the trip end, the men made two canoes in just three days.

The corps used 25 vessels throughout the journey. A 26' boat — a custom-designed collapsible iron frame covered with skins — was carried all the way to Montana, where it failed upon hitting the water.

Counting the Days Start at Pittsburgh, August 31, 1803 to Camp Dubois, Dec. 12, 1803 to May 13, 1804. 104 days

Clark joins the Corps Oct. 15, 1803 near Louisville, KY

Leave Camp Dubois, May 14, 1803 to Fort Mandan site Nov. 2, 1804 to April 6, 1805. 174 days Sergeant Charles Floyd died on Aug. 20, 1804 — Sioux City, IA

Leave Fort Mandan to the Great Falls in Montana. 134 days Sacagawea joins the Corps.

Great Falls to the Rockies — 35 days.

The Rockies to the Columbia River (Fort Clatsop) Dec. 7, 1805 to March 23, 1806. 63 days.

Return: 53 days to the Rockies; 21 days to the Plains and Great Falls; 44 days to the Mandan villages; 39 days to St. Louis.

They met 58 tribes along the trail.

The letter Lewis wrote Clark inviting him to join him took almost 2 months to circulate to and from Lewis. Lewis had a back up for the trip — an Army lieutenant named Moses Hooke. It wouldn’t be the same magic if it was the Lewis and Hooke Expedition— would it?

Clark was 33, Lewis 29 when the expedition started. They were both Virginians, Army officers, six-footers and experienced outdoorsmen, who met 8 years earlier when they were serving in Indian campaigns in the Ohio Valley.

They were both fearless spellers. Clark took “looner” observations, ate slices of “Water Millions”, tracked “bearfooted Indians” and was proud to serve the “Untied States.” Clark found 27 different ways to spell the word Sioux.

For the previous two years, Lewis had been working in the White House as Jefferson’s private secretary. Clark was living with his brother George on land overlooking the Ohio River just below Louisville.

Lewis was a Captain and he requested that Clark be named one also, but Clark was a second lieutenant. They never told their men and treated each other as equals — placing them among the few effective co-CEOs in organizational history.

Clark was a better boatman and navigator; Lewis the planner and natural historian. Lewis was aloof, Clark more agreeable. Once when Clark was waylaid with a boil on his ankle, Lewis forged ahead with additional duties. Cruzatte accidentally shot Lewis in the ass and Clark cleaned and dressed Lewis’s wounds ever day for almost three weeks. “They spent roughly 1000 days and nights together.

Lewis and Clark kept perhaps the most complete journals in the history of human exploration. They and their party of 31 contended with hunger, disease, blizzards, broiling sun, boiling rapids, furious grizzly bears and unrelenting plagues of tormenting “musquetors.” We know about the Indians who helped them and we know that they had to eat dogs and horses to survive.

What Jefferson hoped would be a practicable water route turned out to be a failure — to locate the Northwest Pasaage.

The last task of the voyage — publishing their account – fell to Lewis. He had kept the raw notes and journals (nearly 1-million words) to the Pacific and back with the goal of editing them into final form. Lewis, sinking into a depression fueled by alcohol and possibly disease, developed a monumental case of writer’s block. He never turned in a single line.

On Oct. 28, 1809, Clark read the shocking report in a Kentucky newspaper that Lewis had killed himself on the Natchez Trace, near Nashville, Tenn.

Lincoln’s almost duel between him and James Shields was on 9/22/1842. They had grumbled and quarreled at a meeting before Shields challenged Lincoln to a duel to end the quarrel. It was against the law in Illinois to duel, so a neutral site, a island named the Sunflower Island, near the Missouri side of the Mississippi was chosen to be the site of the duel.

As was the custom, the challenged man chose the weapon to be used. Lincoln chose a Sword with a long blade. Lincoln, was 6 foot four inches tall had very long arms. As he walked along the path to the dueling grounds he used his sword to cut branches off of trees near the path. It did not go unnoticed that Shields, a much shorter man, was disadvantaged and would likely lose the duel. Shield’s second consulted him, reminding him of Lincoln’s strength and his great arm length. He advised Shields to concede the match. Shield’s second immediately met Lincoln’s second to tell him that Shields would concede to Lincoln. Lincoln happily accepted the offer. Abraham Lincoln debated Frederic Douglas in Alton on October 15 1858. Lincoln was anti-slave oriented and Douglas was a staunch racist. It was their last of seven debates. Douglas won the Senate seat. The Alton prison opened in 1833 and closed in 1860, It was reopened in December 1861. the Union Prison was located at 14 Williams Street, Alton, IL. On February 9, 1862, the first prisoners arrived at the prison. In just three years more than 11,700 Confederate prisoners passed through the gates of the Alton prison and were held captive there. Small pox broke out and hundreds of prisoners died from it. Many of The dead were taken to an island midway between Illinois and Missouri for burial. the island was named Sunflower Island. Graves were not marked. A Confederate cemetery is located in North Alton at 635 Rozier Street, Alton, IL. In the early 1900’s the Mineral Springs Hotel and Spa was built. Some of the bricks of the Alton prison was used in it’s construction. It was named Mineral Springs because the water for the spa contained southing salts and minerals. It was a place for the rich who flocked to Alton, hoping for relief and perhaps healing of their aching bodies.

Lincoln’s almost duel between him and James Shields was on 9/22/1842. They had grumbled and quarreled at a meeting before Shields challenged Lincoln to a duel to end the quarrel. It was against the law in Illinois to duel, so a neutral site, a island named the Sunflower Island, near the Missouri side of the Mississippi was chosen to be the site of the duel.

As was the custom, the challenged man chose the weapon to be used. Lincoln chose a Sword with a long blade. Lincoln, was 6 foot four inches tall had very long arms. As he walked along the path to the dueling grounds he used his sword to cut branches off of trees near the path. It did not go unnoticed that Shields, a much shorter man, was disadvantaged and would likely lose the duel. Shield’s second consulted him, reminding him of Lincoln’s strength and his great arm length. He advised Shields to concede the match. Shield’s second immediately met Lincoln’s second to tell him that Shields would concede to Lincoln. Lincoln happily accepted the offer.

Abraham Lincoln debated Frederic Douglas in Alton on October 15 1858. Lincoln was anti-slave oriented and Douglas was a staunch racist. It was their last of seven debates. Douglas won the Senate seat.

The Alton prison opened in 1833 and closed in 1860, It was reopened in December 1861. the Union Prison was located at 14 Williams Street, Alton, IL. On February 9, 1862, the first prisoners arrived at the prison. In just three years more than 11,700 Confederate prisoners passed through the gates of the Alton prison and were held captive there. Small pox broke out and hundreds of prisoners died from it. Many of The dead were taken to an island midway between Illinois and Missouri for burial. the island was named Sunflower Island. Graves were not marked. A Confederate cemetery is located in North Alton at 635 Rozier Street, Alton, IL.

In the early 1900’s the Mineral Springs Hotel and Spa was built. Some of the bricks of the Alton prison was used in it’s construction. It was named Mineral Springs because the water for the spa contained southing salts and minerals. It was a place for the rich who flocked to Alton, hoping for relief and perhaps healing of their aching bodies.

I’m really having a time of it. Locked up. I seem unable to move beyond small confines and out into the open. I’m shy again. I may or may not tell someone my name and what I do, where I work, and where I live. I’m guarded and not cheery.

I wrote a poem several years ago about going through the motions like a fan stirring up the air. There is similarity to how I feel now. Then, it was to report that I was out of that malady. Today, it is like I’m still in a frozen state and wanting to get out of it.

It has reached a point that I can not even tell my son or my family about me and what’s going on. Iam worried. I am also hopeful that it will end. There are indications that it will.

I was on a crest and things looked up.

One evening about 30 days ago I met what I thought was an unfortunate young woman crying in the parking lot of a well-known bar and grill in Alton. It was early and the woman was setting in front of the establishment with her head in her hands. I spoke to her as I approached and asked what was wrong. She answered and said her fiancée’ had died. I felt compassion well up in me and I spoke to her again.

Later, she would hit me with a beer bottle, drive away in my car and total it a few blocks away. Wow. A carjacking. More story that what I have said here. In fact, I wrote about it on 10 or so pages.

If you look too prosperous Or friends think you are They’re likely to send you something You’ve lived without so far

Like fleece lined boots Or fancy silverware And a box of Swedish chocolates, Course, the sender gets his share

There aint’ no use, me a gettin’ rich Knowing me, I'd spend it And borrow more for things to buy If | could get someone to lend it

I'm better off just getting by And staying where | set Cause the more | make at working The more I go in debt

So, if the market is up | could sell it On the board, but I won’t Cause making money’s one thing That | just can’t afford

It’s a different kind of logic That allows a man to boast When the richest people Are the ones who owe the most

I believe I am undergoing some major changes in life. My thinking <

is different now tl it was 15-10-5 years ago. There is a‘different focus in life. ambition is not the same. G@ feel a little confused. 3

) think about a smaller house and yard, and a bright red sports car and new clothes. Well, a little of the time} do. Actually:( 1 really want (55 a jeep, to go back to hunting deer and pheasants. But with who? (uy) ‘Ox friends play golf and would not think of hunting. How easy it is todo , one fying. don't want to be alone, yet find that more and more of thé Wi ( ti og

ame

time restricts of course, but small trips are ok. The companion that x

likes wha & 1ike is another matter. “/feel a drifting apart from (my @ spouse. (I/don't like that, but feel without power to do much about it. t) Our views are different, our friends different. Things are different.

There is a goodness about our relationship and it has always been good.

@ want to Oh ot see things, do things – with someone. Money and Ve

miss my kid something fierce. “fjdon't want time to pass fast, but lieve in time that his choice to move out of our home will turn out ok. T) worry about him a lot, Dinesh alot. It's lonesome without him around.

like to write poems and plan to write several this winters 2 also want to work on fitness and conditioning. Getting older makes me worry about health. —

Tonight @am considering several ways to spend the evening. One, @w {L}could go to the Country Club for their fund raiser. It will cost me) Ww $100 and you already know how (I)hate losing money without getting something (” material in return. However, it would be a good idea to be seen by more = people. It would be good for business. Work you know is important. (1) G/ could wait for Barb to get home, she will probably here about 8:00 PM. Then we could do something. It is not likely that (Ij)will see Shanon. ces

(Whave worked all day at the office and am not wanting to start up the work process again. Going to a dark house, the two cats, and no ey 4 1 noise, does not appeal to mie. It's too far to go and see the family. @©-

Well, this letter\is almost over. It could be that@ will mail 2 it. It is sure that (I)will read it again. Notice the number of times Rp the letter @has appeared in this letter and you will know who it was © written for and maybe you will detect something that is good. \Dreally do think of you a lot. See you.

Many a weak, puny, timid, helpless boy went home a brave, independent man. Many simply went to war and never returned and their stories never told.

LETTERS ~ page one

In the Civil War the common folk put themselves on record to an unprecedented extent becau: mn first time in the nation’s history, large numbers of them were separated from their fealignets bors Absence from home impelled them to write letters and keep diaries. Pencils and paper ued to the soldiers. They were the most literate regular army of fighting men in history. tnt ~

Most of the common soldiers were native Americans. 95% of the Confederates and 75% of the Federals were born in the United States. Scattered through the Federal forces were about 200,000 Germans; 150,000 Irishmen; 50,000 Englishmen; 50,000 Canadians, and lesser numbers of Scandinavians, French, Italians, Hungarians, and natives of other countries. Native American Indians also served in the war.

On the Confederate side the Irish numbered probably between 15,000 and 20,000. Germans were the next largest group of foreign born men. The English, French, and Italians also had a substantial number of men in the war. Native American Indians also served in the Confederate force.

Letters from soldiers then, would be of all styles of languages. Their experiences as well as their desire to write aroused them to an unusual degree. They are a rich mine of information about ordinary folk. It revealed very much about themselves.

Some of them:

Flex A Brannigan of the 76" New York, wrote home on May 15, 1862 following the Battle of Williamsburg: “ we were so close to the rebels that some of our wounded had their faces scorched with the firing…fierce, short and decisive was the struggle…as we rush on with the tide of battle, every sense of fear is swallowed up in the wild joy we feel thrilling thro every fibre of our system.”

Lieutenant Andrew J. O’ Byrne, another Irishman, wrote in September 1864, near Winchester, VA:

“I took particular notice of a wild looking Irishman who stood near me. He was loading and firing as fast as he could…while loading he would recite some prayers in a jumbled sort of way…and when Shooting, he would shout, “now Jeff Davis, you son-of-a-bitch, take that.” He repeated this everytime he fired, “now Jeff Davis, you son-of-a-bitch, take that,” until the line was drawing near. We then ceased firing.”

General George E. Pickett wrote to his finacee’ December 14, 1862 from Fredericksburg, VA:

“Your soldiers heart almost stood still as he watched those sons of Erin fearlessly rush to their death. The brilliant assult…was beyond description. Why, my darling we forgot they were fighting us and cheer after cheer at their fearlessness went up all along the line.”

Many of my best friends think that some of my deeply held beliefs about important issues are obviously false or even nonsense. How can we still be friends? I explain and give arguments for my claims, and my source for facts. It doesn’t have an effect. They, I believe, follow someone’s words, comments or positions without questing sources of their so-called facts. A recent study of middle aged men and women about family estrangement, reported that more than 30% of families experienced estrangement. Most were still at odds with family members. Some had disbanded them altogether. I didn’t participate in the survey/study, but have experienced it in my family. There are extremists on both sides of a current political scene. They don’t listen to the other side. Trolls resort to slogans, name calling, mockery, and jokes. When they do bother to give arguments their arguments often are simply made to justify what suits their feelings and signals tribal alliances. All of us need to recognize the value of listening carefully; second, we need to ask questions. Most chose not to, or are reluctant to do that and counter with derogatory remarks and anger further widening the gulf between us. We also need to give arguments and reasons for our claims on controversial issues. Neither side is obvious enough to escape demands for evidence and reasons which are presented in the form of arguments. Earlier this week I was on my phone in a conversation with a friend of more than fifty years. We were discussing medicines and health issues of ourselves and friends. I stated that I believed my prescriptions were interacting with other prescriptions. I had just returned from the ER. She said I had mentioned that before and it was an opinion. I agreed. I am entitled to my opinion, but not the facts and I intended to find out more about prescriptions. She agreed with the opinion and facts role and said it was like tearing down confederate statues like Robert E. Lee at Richmond Virginia that was erected approximately 80 years ago was wrong as it was destroying history. It stunned me. I saw no connection to medicine and a Civil War statue of a general of the Southern army who was a racist, and a white supremest and fought to keep slavery and destroy the Democracy. “That’s your opinion ,” she said. This example of opinion and fact is similar to what is happening in the United States today. I firmly believe that had the South won there would have been two nations, one permitting slavery and the other not. Both would have been weak countries and unable to defeat strong countries to invade, conquer and set up their own form of government.

March 25, 2004

I arrived at Fast Eddies on Broadway in Alton about 8:30 pm and parked in the upper (west) lot. The time is closely estimated. It was between games of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. A friend and I had been watching the Vanderbilt game and when it ended, I drove to Alton and to Fast Eddies. I intended to get something to eat, have a beer, and watch the second game until half time before going to my apartment at 435 % Bluff Street, Alton, Tl

After getting out of my 94 Grey Toyota Camry, license plate Il FOCUS 11, I begin to walk through the parking lot and towards the front entrance to Fast Eddies. I had not reached the front sidewalk near the corner of the building when I saw a lady sitting on a parking lot curb. She spoke to me at about the same time as I saw her and I said hello back. She was bent over, her head in her hands and appeared to be crying and in distress. I asked what was wrong. I believe I said, “why are you crying?” She answered, “my fiancé’ died.” I answered with, “Pm sorry.” I felt immediately compassionate towards her and talked softly and asked if she wanted to talk about it. She said he was killed in a motorcycle accident. She said he had always wanted a motorcycle and finally got one. It was, she described, “a great bike.” She said he was killed in Arizona, Phoenix as I recall.

I asked why she was there on the curb and not with friends and she said that they had left her. I said that surely was not the case and if so that they would surely be back for her. She said they wouldn’t and that she would have to find a way home. My first mistake was to talk to her, my second was to offer her a ride to her home or to somewhere downtown. I had asked her name and she had answered, Cindy.” I had given my name, John. She asked if I would take her home. I said yes. She asked if the red truck nearby was my truck and I said no and that I had the grey Toyota next to it. She said “I'll be back in five minutes, I need to pick up my purse, wait right here.” I started down the sidewalk with her to also go in Fast Eddies knowing I might see some friends and let them know I would be right back. She stopped and turned to me and said, “wait here, you don’t need to go in there.”

She returned quickly and less than five minutes. I had barely time to place the stuff (jacket, files, papers, glasses) in the front passenger seat into the rear seat before she returned. Walking to my car, she said, “what kind of thing are your wearing,” referring to the khaki colored wind vest I was wearing. I told her it was a wind vest that I sometimes wear when I played golf and that I had been golfing. She said, “You can’t pick up girls with a thing like that on, you should take it off.” At my car, I opened the door and she got in. When I turned right (west) on Broadway she said where do you go downtown? I answered that I usually go to Marilyn’s. She said, “that’s a rich place where all of the rich people go — are you rich?” T laughed, and said “not hardly.” She said, “You look rich.”

She was about 5°4”, had medium length dark brown bait, jib! had on awh pullover cotton blouse. She had faded jeans on and wore deaim tiers wasted

pee

Marsha sits close to the front and South window typing on one of the

few manual typewriteks that we have. Bank examiners work in dim candlelight using shinny pot lids as reflectors. File drawers work independent of ilary power and checks can be read and filed by candlelight. Miling

is an important job at the bank and idelness is cured.

Lunch is prepared by a most chee group and ead on a long table. Candlelight flicker: folded cold cuts, doritos, and corn ch A joke is told, and ich is consumed.

Suddenly, a flicker and ZIEE?, Power! © a melody is heard from the radio, eve pupils contract, the phone rings and

Tt's 12:8 A.M. December 12, 1972 at the Qodfrey 3 Ste

ts are e biink ng» ly visible,

Marsha sits close to the front and South window typing on one of the

few manual typewriteks that we have. Bank examiners work in dim candlelight using shinny pot lids as reflectors. File drawers work independent of auxilary power and checks can be read and filed by candlelight. Filing

is an important job at the bank and idelness is cured.

Lunch is prepared by a most cheerful,and chattering group and spread on a long table. Candlelight flickers on baked beans, folded cold cuts, doritos, and corn chips. A joke is told, and lunch is consumed.

ys, a flicker and ZIBET, Power! Christmas tree lights are blinking,

a melody is heard from tt adio, every object and person is sharply visible, pupils contract, the phone rings and the mystery of shadows disappears.

It's 11:8 A.M. December 12, 1972 at the Godfrey State Bank.

Martha and The Ducks

Martha Lawrence, a widow, was very thin and in her 70’s when we played cork ball on a slim piece of ground in front of her house located in deep Southern Illinois, (Tunnel Hill, Johnson County, IL) in the 50’s and 60’s) The property was owned by the New York Central Railroad. There was a daily game there on all but the coldest or rainiest days.

Martha would often come out of her grey, unpainted wood frame house and sit in her porch swing and watch us play ball. She never smiled, waived or said a word to us. One day during a game my brother Wil accidentally threw his broom stick bat through one of her windows. We kids scattered like marbles to avoid Martha’s wrath. Wil later confessed, and he and dad replaced the window.

I imagined Martha as being a stern person without humor or fun in her life. Later I thought differently about her. She was reserved and polite. She appeared to be lonesome.

The poem may appear sentimental, but I rather think it is about a private person who had deep thoughts that could not be shared by children playing ball.

MARTHA’S SOUL

Grey eyes behind

Silver rimed glasses,

With wrinkly old skin,

Dusty hands and a puckered mouth : It’s Martha.

She’s facing west

Rocking in the glider on her front porch With simmering sun’s rays

Sneaking through her grey hair.

No one sees her, hears her, Or calls out to her.

She’s breathing

Being natural

Part of something, or nothing. Just souling.

John Casey 6/23/2005

Mary, Mother of Jesus. She was perhaps 14 or 17 or 19 when Jesus was born. Joseph was much older. Perhaps 60 or 90. They may not have been married. Jesus had perhaps seven siblings. I WOULD BE SILENT WHEN SHE SPOKE. I would hold questions unless she asked me to ask one. Teddy Rosevelt. National Park’s were his greatest contribution to America. Bobby Kennedy. Was going to be a great president. I met him eight days before he was killed. I looked into his eyes when I shook his hand. When I wear a white shirt I roll up the sleeves like he did. I think of him every time I wear a white shirt. I still do, 54 years later. Plato or or his teacher, Aristotle. Student – teacher. I’ll listen. Asta Sadakalas. Helen Keller “Let me tell you what I see Mrs. Keller”. Abe Lincoln and I would have a good time telling stories between bites of food. My Civil war hero. Levi Burnside Casey. I walked in his footsteps from the time he enlisted in the Union Army in 1861 and until he died on June 29, 1863. I went where he went, where he camped, where he fought and where he died. It took me more than 20 years. thanks, Shan. Love

Mass shooting – gun-free areas. Crazies know they can kill as many helpless people as possible until someone shows up and stops them. More often [they] commit suicide. Schools & churches are the common targets of mass shootings. Our fake politicians are afraid to stand up to the gun lobby. 1st – vote them out. Use your vote as your voice. Lobbyists – gun owners. Arguments: 18-year-olds sign up to fight for our country – yes they do, and are trained – and must pass a test. They don't own the weapons. A culture of hate – (is a mental illness) 35%. Cars are regulated to be registered and drivers are required to have a license. Also: Domestic abuse – convicted felonies; hot / stolen guns.

gold on their wrists and chains of gold around their necks. If one of them breaks, anyone that gets hold of the pieces may keep them. “No one follows a chump.” W.C. Fields.

My favorite Masters Champions used three kinds of intuition when they won at Augusta; ordinary, expert, and strategic. Ordinary intuition is gut instinct. It involves a vague notion of key points and direction (Fuzzy Zoeller, 1979). Expert intuition is a snap judgment that corresponds to the power of knowledge based on extensive facts and experience. (Phil Michelson’s 6-iron from 195 yards~2010.), Strategic intuition isa slow, thoughtful way that is a deep and wide process of reflective thinking through all the possibilities — (Jack Nicklaus, age, 46, 1986).

Zooming deep and wide is a skill Ihave not cultivated to any degree. I tend towards gut instinct mixed with snap judgment constantly being updated for new possibilities with rich experiences. «Imagination encircles the world.” Einstein.

White belts will go away (please), but roars of patrons, green wrapped food, and brilliant flowers are painted on my memory cells. [hope they never fade.

I was a patron at the 2013 Masters and wore a WALDO shirt.

John Casey 4/2013

Kalrette This before Zitioail FO Me MAgTR

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© Gartner Studios

Matterings

A phase of my life has turned a corner. I’m thankful for that.

Today, what matters really matter. Things that don’t matter – don’t.

There are no tricks,

But fun and games persist.

Today, what matters really matter. Things that don’t matter – don’t.

What’s the matter with you? What’s the matter with me. That’s what matters.

Other things don’t matter.

May 08 musings:

I did not leap out of bed this morning with a song. The mirror gave away my age. I looked for a decongestion pill and Visine.

The polished wood floor in my apartment was almost dazzling when the stream of the morning sun reached patches of the floor. I was proud that I had given the floor attention yesterday.

In a small cloth sack I packed a short sleeved shirt and a pull-over for a possible late afternoon walk. Maybe even golf?

The garden looked neat with all of the growing plants. The contrast of short and tall plants with numerous green shades was pleasant to see.

A large blue (strawberry) planter with several pockets will be just right for an eggplant plant in the center with parsley in the side pockets. I'll put the planter on the porch for the morning sun.

On my drive to work I noticed the water level of the Mississippi and a creek feeding into it had dropped and tree trunks that had been under water for weeks were uncovered.

On University Drive two women walking together had sweaters tied to their waists and they looked unsightly as compared to a lone runner with no shirt on and who reminded me of my youth when I too was slender and tanned. I vowed right then to give attention to my carriage when I walked or ran and never will I tie a sweater to my waist.

The first thing I did when I reached work was to find and read the obituary of a friend who died day before yesterday. He was 62. I recalled a speech I made in 1972 that was about him. He was elected as a National Director of the Jaycees. He said my speech was the key to his victory. It was about him being a “square.” He was, in the truest way.

A tiny splinter in my right foot had nagged at me for a day or two needed attention. Splinters do not go away; they just get deeper and create pain. It was about the size of a computer chip, but my warped mind conjured up a major operation with a sharp blade and a long thin needle. I pulled off my sock and sat down and begin the extraction. It was painful but successful. I did not measure the log but it looked huge under the magnifying glass. Relief was instant.

The phone call I received just now was from a jewelry store representative about a knife, that I had commissioned, Jim, my brother to make for a friend. It is a beautiful and wonderfully balanced knife that took time and a fine skill to finish. The caller said the engraving was finished and the knife looked great. IZZY was engraved on the polished steel base (hilt) of the knife. It will be a present to Jason Isringhausen, a closer for the St. Louis Cardinals. He hunts.

It’s12 noon and time forlunch. john 5/21/08

The #100 on my McDonald's Order opened the door to Lively Conversation this morning. Everyone Pitched in — happy Senior meal.

[yellow legal pad] Project – Prepare ready-to-eat meals (after heating). 300-500 calories. [margin: Need appropriate dishes; I need calories.] Turkey and gravy – mashed potatoes; Chicken (same); Chicken & Broccoli with G. Beans or cereal; Roast Beef, mushroom gravy, potatoes; Mac & Cheese & Peppers; Mac & Broccoli (learn how to spell); Pork & dressing – with beets – apple sauce. Chicken strips – baked; Chicken & dumplings. – I need comfort food calories. – Stay away from – Tomato sauces, Hot BBQ sauces – (remove seeds; soft / cubed tomatoes). Try BLT – no cheese. Roasted veggies – celery, carrots, peppers, mushrooms. – Country gravy – mushrooms – broccoli – cereal, French. [Small batches: Salmon cakes / Tuna salad] Spinach – chop & use with other food. Golden beets – not red (expensive food). Rice – Sausage – white/brown. Radishes – red-white. Sweet peas. Melons – fruit – vegetables, protein drinks.

Medical background 2013 /summer

Male

Age 72 (10/30/40

Single, married twice, son, , lives in Boston

Childhood: measles, mumps, chicken pox, flu/colds Broken bones: finger, knee cap (1962) A few accidental scars, pocket knife, punches, wire cuts — few stitches

2001 — fall — emergency 5-way by=pass — St, Anthony’s, and Christian Northwest No insurance.

Quick recovery, no complications,

2008 knife accident while hunting, hospital emergency room (Nov.) Medicare paid almost 100%

No other complications/

I do not have a doctor

I live alone

Alton, IL

Social Security is primary income

Part time Realtor — Coldwell Banker Commercial Brown Realtors, Edwardsville

Symptoms/complications

Shortness of breath —

I have had several bouts of this the past few years when I travel- pine pollen I believe. It lasts about 3-4 weeks and diminishes when I am in the Alton Area. Several coughing episodes, some severe. I was in Georgia in early April and seem to have caught a spell. It has not gone away.

“Chills have often plagued me and it takes 30-40 minutes of covers to get comfortable. I do not feel any twinges pains in my chest/upper arm, etc as though associated with heart problems, but it has been 12 years since the bypass. During the past few weeks I have been struggling more with breathing. I have gastric pains and can not keep down any food of substance. I have lost more than 15 pounds during the past three months.

I get very little sleep. I use over-the-counter PM pills (Advil, alive, etc.) I never take more than allowed and most of the time less.

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Medicine

ATORVASTAIN — 40 MG TABLETS (1 A DAY AT BEDTIME) cholesterol METOPHOLOL TARTRAE — 50 MG — TAKE 1 TWICE A DAY heart LISINOPRIL — 10 MG — TAKE 1 TWICE A DAY Heart** SPIRONOLACTONE 25 MG —- TAKE 1 A DAY fluid **

FUROSEMIDE — 20 MG — TAKE | A DAY – fluid **

LANSOPRAZOLE – TAKE | A DAY before a meal- (gastronic, not a prescription) ASPIRIN — 81 MG-—1 A DAY

PM PAIN — 1 A DAY (AT BEDTIME)

IBUPROFEN 1 A DAY FOR PAIN (JOINTS) generic

IBUPROFEN PM (LIGHT BLUE PILL) — generic

POSTASSIUM — | A DAY -gneric

MAGNASIUM – | A DAY – generic

MULTI-VITAMIN – 1 A DAY – generic

EQUATE — (BOWELS) — 1 TSP A DAY WITH WATER – generic

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MEMO TO:

Adam, Eve, Lisa, Marie, Peter, Paul, Mary, Martin, Martha, Stewart, Penny, Marshall, Dillon, Ron, Howard, Hugh, Heffner, Jack, Daniel, Bert, Ernie, Charlotte, Webb, Jeff, Gordon, Amos, Andy, Bruce, Willis, Gene, Barry, Becky, Bob, Judy, Judy, Judy, Cary, Grant, Nelson, Fast Eddie, Arnold, Palmer, Jason, Freddy, Hillary, Bill, Ann, Frank,

Jesse, James, Liz, Taylor, Mike, Nichols,

Joe, Lewis, Clark, Kent, Loretta, Lynn,

Bill, Bailey, Jerry, Lewis, Roy, Parker,

Julia, Robert, Bob, Denver, Betty, Davis,

Love, Tim, Allen, Tommy, Lee, Marvin,

Billy, Joel, Fred, Barney, Morgan, Stanley, Dick, Jane, Sally, Jimmy, Dean, , Chip, Dale, Diana, Ross, Kirk, Douglas, Rodney, Pete, Rose, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Wayne,

Jay, Randolph, Robin, William, Jennifer, Hayden, Larry, Moe, Curley, Will, Grace, Tom, Hank, Aaron, Sonny, Cher, Connie, Francis, Scott, Patrick, Ewing, Tammy, Faye, Greg, Nornan, Raymond, Floyd, Abbie, Gail, Michael,

Jordan, Hale, Irwin, Jamie, Curtis,

Marsha, Mason, Jack, Nicholas.

Hello Everybody. T now live in Alton 435 Bluff Street and I want your real estate business. Referrals Welcome! John Casey COLDWELL BANKER BROWN REALTORS 692-7290 670-5646

Max,

Betty,

Kevin

Scott

Marsha Cheryl Donald Phillip

Gib

Harold, Steve, Allen Katie

Sean, Connor Frank, Gifford Jane Margaret

Cecil Ralph, Terry Jason

Memo/journal — September, 2011

“You never left me, boys and girls,” was the title to a one-page essay I wrote and gave to several class mates (after they requested it) attending the 1958 Vienna, IL high school class reunion held on Saturday, September 24, 2011. It was appropriate and appreciated, I was told. A few ladies indicated they had a crush on me. I reciprocated. The reunion of 35 (of 89) classmates was warm and friendly. No agenda, no awards, and no speeches made it great.

Later I attended a wedding reception in Anna, IL. The reception was for my son, Shan’s step-daughter. It was held on a beautiful and large lawn on Main Street. A highlight was the launching of small hot air balloons into the dark cloudless sky. The balloons were made with flame retardant paper shells; the canopy had tiny thin wires connecting to a small square piece of material coated with powdered fuel. One or two people unfolded the balloons; lit the square; the balloon filled with hot air and when it was completely full and heated it was released into the almost windless air. The balloons slowly ascended to considerable heights and made the sky aluminous. It was terrific theatre.

Clean pumpkins with soap and water, plus a little bleach will remove bacteria and makes the pumpkins last longer. Clear shellac will make the pumpkins shine. I have plans to decorate several pumpkins for my birthday/Halloween party on October 30". One will be a mummy, another an alien and one will be an owl. All of this years display pumpkins will be white. 200 or so little, under ten, costumed kids will visit our neighborhood for goodies. When I run out of treats, I go upstairs to the party going on. From my 2" story porch the revelers are enjoyable to watch and most of the guests will spend some time on the porch. The guests have learned that the “good stuff’ comes out late, so the gang hangs out for awhile.

The only Cardinal game (with the Mets on September 22, 2011) I saw all year resulted in an 8-6 Met win. The game was delayed 1 hr. 40 min by rain. Attendance was announced at over 37,000, but only 8 — 10 thousand were there at the finish. The Mets scored six times in the ninth. The small crowd at the end resembled mice scurrying away from a flood. I was in the stadium by 11:00 AM hoping to see Jason Isringhausen, a pitcher for the Mets. Jason, a friend of mine, had recorded his coveted 300" save in August. He came by the dugout where I was standing. I said hello, congratulations and we shook hands. More than seven hours later I left the stadium saddened by the Cardinal loss. Today is a different story. It’s all tied up between the Cardinals and Phillies. The Cards are playing the Astros, the Braves play the Phils.

The tiff with my brother is not in the lingering stage, but it is virtually dormant. He emails me, and I respond. He uses Hallmark type poems, trademark sayings, and clique essays to get his messages across. I don’t. Mine are authentic brand-new remarks. Trusting his God to heal the tiff will not work. God had nothing to do with the tiff and will not be the healer.

Today (I may change) I see the situation as a sibling thing. It was not an isolated incident. A brief glimpse of how I see it: Wil is the third son of a family of eight. Iam the fifth child, and the fourth son. My older sister was the fourth child, and the seventh child, a brother, was the fifth son. My older sister died in 1999. My younger brother died this year. Grieving is a personal thing. I grieved a long time when my sister died, as was my closest sibling. I was grieving my brother’s death at the time Wil and I had our tiff.

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My mom washed the uniform in very hot water knowing that wool shrinks. It already had, of course, and the uniform only came out cleaner. We went to work on that two-piece suite right away. I put on the shirt and my mom doubled each sleeve over about 4 to 5 inches and pinned it. Then she did the same to the sides. The tail would just have to hang. Did I tell you that we had orders not to cut the uniform down? Well, we did have the orders, and I wasn’t about to break rules that could jeopardize my playing time, which I though was about to increase. The uniform would have to be carefully sewn by my mom on her sewing machine and hand stitching. When finished hardly a stitch would show. The strip along the sleeve disappeared completely under the fold.

The pants were done about the same way on each leg. The outside seam was folded over several inches, pinned, then sewn. A similar procedure, but this time several fold-overs were necessary to reduce the waist to about 28 or 29 inches for me. Belt loops were pretty close together when mom finished the pants. New elastic in the cuffs would allow me to fold at least 10” of the pants just below my knee and still leave my stirrup socks showing.

I could stuff the long tail of the shirt down into the pants that would serve as my sliding pads. It would work. My mom worked on that uniform for hours, taking time to sew it up real good and when she finished, I was proud to wear it. You had to look real close to see the adjustments she made.

I remembered wearing that uniform right after she had made it fit me at a game in Norris City, IL, a town about 8@ miles north of Metropolis. I was catching, and the first batter singled to right field. The second batter popped out. The third batter singled to right and there were runners on first and second. The next batter also singled to right and the runner on second tried to score. The throw from the right fielder came home. I was blocking the plate and the ball and runner reached me at exactly the same time. I caught the ball, tagged the runner who knocked me over and I came up throwing to third, to catch the runner who tried to go from first to third on the hit. Out at the plate! Out at third! Three outs. The Norris City team had just singled three times to right field and no one scored. We went on to win the game and I was proudly wearing Hank Sauer’s uniform.

— 7 Ns aN

a pod

mH OHS

“I not only use all the brains I have but all that I can borrow.” Woodrow Wilson “We grow great by dreams.” W. Wilson

“I have never been hurt by anything I didn’t say.” Calvin Coolidge

“Blessed are the young, for they will inherit the national debt.” Herbert Hoover

“When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” Ronald Regan

“Men make history, and not the other way around.” Harry Truman

“A pessimistic general never won a battle.” Dwight Eisenhower

“If a problem can not be solved, enlarge it.” Dwight Eisenhower

“You know nothing for sure…except the fact that you know nothing for sure.” John Kennedy

“I’d rather give my life than be afraid to give it.” Lyndon Johnson “you ain’t learnin’ nothin’ when you’re talkin’” Lyndon Johnson

“The truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted.” James Madison

“A little flattery will support a man through great fatigue.” James Madison

“It is easier to do a job right that to explain why you didn’t.” Martin Van Buren

—” “And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.” Abraham Lincoln

“Die when I may, I wanted it said of me that I plucked a weed and I planted a flower wherever I thought a flower would grow.” Abraham Lincoln’ ~~ Dack 5 –

– Kod |e, SReya_

Poem,

Friday May 7, 21

Up at 6:00 and put on coffee. started to dress and the jeans

were too tight and will put them in a – to go place. Put on

kaki’s and — outside was 42 and I put on a long

sleeve tee s

Watched a few minutes of TV and reviewed activities, etc.

Wrote a short note to the Mayor and will mail it or take it to

the court house. I copied a couple of short notes and will

include them in a mail pouch to Shan. I tried to move the mirror in bedroom and it was too

heavy for me. yard sale item. the yard sale will not be

immediate and will have time to get help. May as well set up

a schedule to move items to the garage. in An idea came into my head and I'll jot it down, *# an 1. Puta price tag on all the items I plan to sell." Put

AL – “FREE” on the items I will give away. 8. Calculate a total sale price for allitems: Paintor . the. wnt scratch signs with a one price foreverything. ( «7 “4i/ \ : . a

EXAMPLE: One mirror will be priced at $50 and another at $40; A oak table, two chairs, the electric lawn mower will be priced at $257 the tools at $30, shirts at $2.00 ea, and things ana. at $40 – say. for a total of $2507 $275. For the first hour offer to sell the entire inventory for one price for eve . Don’t put a price on anything until the special offer

price time hasexpired. <0 Se 64 Saou lemw, – stffas

I don’t want to sell and deal with dickering overy every 7 item. Id like to think someone might like to buy everything, keep what they want and have their own yard sale.

Ican also break up items and sell them all for one price too. 10 shirts for $30; two mirrors at $80; tools at…. and on an on.

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1 Sb 40!

My next stop was at Spectrum to pay my tab. I discussed whether it was going to go'up and the rep looked it up and said, “yes, it will go up $20’next month.” I will look at AT & T and ifI can find service I want and at a lower price (I believe I can), “this is good pry to Spectrum.”

Next, I went to Senior Services and asked about a handyman programs. Got a phone number , called and left a message to call me back. I left my # for a call back The handyman charges $50 an hour and I think I need someone to help me for a couple of hours. I’m sure a call back will not come insoon. — = 7%7"<«<

On my way to the SS Services a wind came up and because I had opened my skylight window I heard the Lowe’s flower pans bang. No worryI thought. When I got home, only one of the three lids were in the car. They had sailed out the open window. ~ Beet 70 Laegl Wr Was —

me – 2e2

Icalled SS Plus for a carry out meal and got quick service and picked up a fresh and good lunch.

My car had tiny white specks onit that stuck. The pollen from the wild cherry tree, I believe had causetiny scars on my car before, much to my chagrin. I stopped ata car wash and hosed it down, removing hopefully all of those stickers. I sped up to let the water run off as the car had

been waxed. ~ -4T Lewleaet 4 ike Y ¥1/ ~Fower LA I feel like crap, but there is more to do. Might as well continue. – @arn7 “ap: 20 f reb[ ascllers rok drt Zhe. az~<eshes Cxtaz ma © O Os , < vie le Leal 9 for pills, yar Sher Grads aa bb t Yer SE TOE '*

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Had a cereal and blueberry breakfast. Put bird seed in the feeders, before I drove downtown to the book sale and found a close parking space. Waited in line for 30 minutes as there was a good crowd and people were being social distanced to go inside. Talked toa few people andhearda “4% pes

LOeeg

few discussing vaccine shots. I spoked with a friend and a oa leas

asked if she had her shots. She said no. She replied “it ~ S&i es /S not proven to be safe” and added that she might in three

years”. I said her risk was far greater to skip the vaccine.

She said that “The man upstairs will take care of me.” I

couldn’t resist and said, “Has he done OK in India saving

people from the CO-Vid.”? I know I should have just been

silent, but gee whillerkers, why someone ignores common

sense and'take a free vaccine to protect herself, her family

and others from potential death from a known human killer.

Believing God would take care of hep is like using a shield

eck, Cut SICK

I went to the magazine room when I got into the building and went through hundreds of magazines and begin collecting them. I finished with 70 and at 10 cents ea I may go back on Monday and look for books. 2 bpd Pea –

Ho moze _

I went by Mac’s and took a photo of the safety bar on a step. I asked for the name of the person/contractor, but didn’t get anywhere. I may follow up.

Next I went to Lowe”s for plastic pans for large plants and bought three. I checked on material to build a safety bar on the steps to my apartment and found what appears to be a good solution. Naturally, some of the needed parts were not in inventory and I declined to spend any more time there and review it later.

Next I went to the AT&T store and asked for help to trouble shoot for my lack of being able to receive some internet stuff. The clerk was stymied. I must handle this and find a solution to getting messages.

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Morning pages — sunny and bright — nice! The world is made up of stories

Creativity is not fickle or limited. There are always ideas. The trick is to gently access them. “Easy does it” works. Frantic and forced does not. One at a time lets me focus.

Things that make me angry: losing a sock. Not putting things in the right place. A broken shoe lace. Can't find the glue. Not remembering to take a library book back. There’s still time today to do this.

I'll always change. Send note to a Realtor who works for CB whose husband is facing a critical operation

Things that make me happy: Finding a seamstress who will tailor my slacks for a better fit for a small price. 463-0443.

Putting a small sign in the yard for people to pick up after their dog (rocks on each side of sign is a smile rock.)

Praise people who are kind. Make good use of their help and assistance.

Let this be a continued activity — just add on Morning pages

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Mr. Bailey raised property taxes 81% faster than in Chicago. How did he do that?

Can Mr. Bailey explain? Can Mr. Irvin explain?

When did Mr. Bailey vote Obama into office? Didn’t he, Mr. Bailey, have only one vote to cast?

Mr. Bailey supported J.B. Pritzker’s Illinois shutdown. What does that mean? Is Illinois shut down? Is the shut down forever?

Is the umpire a Republican? Who paid the umpire? A Republican? Why is the umpire pointing? Why is he wearing a golf shirt? Why is GOP on his shirt? Isn’t a umpire supposed to be fair to both sides?

Why is Mr. Biden’s glove placed on his right hand? It is a left handed glove, right?

Has Mr. Bailey been declared out? Why is he not wearing a batting helmet?

Did a registered Republican write the copy for the handout? Did someone proof it?

The GOP should be a proud and capable party, looking after the interests of all Americans. Have they now turned to negative means to weaken opponents? Is it fair to say they have become a disgusting lock-step one-sided dangerous faction.

Why is Mr. Irvin’s name is small letters?

Mr. Bailey raised property taxes 81% faster than in Chicago. How did he do that? Can Mr. Bailey explain? Can Mr. Irvin explain? When did Mr. Bailey vote Obama into o!ce? Didn’t he, Mr. Bailey, have only one vote to cast? Mr. Bailey supported J.B. Pritzker’s Illinois shutdown. What does that mean? Is Illinois shut down? Is the shut down forever? Is the umpire a Republican? Who paid the umpire? A Republican? Why is the umpire pointing? Why is he wearing a golf shirt? Why is GOP on his shirt? Isn’t a umpire supposed to be fair to both sides? Why is Mr. Biden’s glove placed on his right hand? It is a left handed glove, right? Has Mr. Bailey been declared out? Why is he not wearing a batting helmet? Did a registered Republican write the copy for the handout? Did someone proof it? The GOP should be a proud and capable party, looking after the interests of all Americans. Have they now turned to negative means to weaken opponents? Is it fair to say they have become a disgusting lock-step one-sided dangerous faction. Why is Mr. Irvin’s name is small letters? Why is Mr. Irvin’s name is tiny letters?

I decided to do some reading and research about Ali, my contemporary. I had been aware d Ca

and entertaining poems and pulled for him when he fought the likes of Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier,

of him since that radio broadcast and I like boxing. I lil

us, enjoyed his brashness, simple

George Forman, Jerry Quarry, Archie Moore, Ken Norton, Floyd Patterson, and others. His famous – FLOAT LIKE A BUTTERFLY, STING LIKE A BEE became his trademark. His extraordinary speed, sense of timing and distance allowed him to dominate foes. He had a snapping jab, a great right cross that would break down his opponent and his punches would take

them out. He danced and pranced and used rope-a-dope technique that infuriated fighters. “Iam

an American,” he once declared; “I am black, confident, cocky, my name, not yours; my religion, not yours; my goals, my own; get used to me.” He stood up and spoke out. It would cost him his

boxing title. It would earn him enemies on the left and right and make him reviled. But Ali stood

his ground. Ali shook up the world.

Ali, who was dyslexic and a poor reader, tested well below the mental competency

fied and slated for induction. In 1963, he objected to the draft and would ever after be controversial. The Vietnam War was e:

requirements and was classified 1-Y. But he was reclas:

‘alating and America was seriously involved in sending troops to battle the North Vietnamese army. This war ar Indo China War.

When the Indo China War ended, North and South Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia were formed.

was unpopular to say the least. France had pulled its troops after a 20-y

Now America was now expecting to end the Communist take-over bid to control this part of the

world. Volunteer troops were the first to go to Vietnam. The first American’s sent there were

classified as advisors to the South Vietnam Army but when the war escalated and more and more

young men were drafted for combat duty.

Ali explained his objection was not on religious grounds but also racial. At this time, it was

an inconceivable position. He stated, “No Vietcong ever called me nigger; I ain’t got no quarrel

with them Vietcong.” This was before protests, draft card burning ceremonies, and an exodus of

draftees to Canada and foreign countries to avoid being forced into a war they didn’t believe in.

Ali was a defiant voice against the Vietnam War and the draft. Ali proved he could take a punch. certain unalienable rights? O.K.

Watch me exercise them.” He was arrested, tried, convicted and sentenced to 5-yeai

He called Jefferson’s great bluff. “I am created equal? I hav

sin prison.

His attorney’s appealed the decision and Ali did not serve time. He was stripped of his title and and a half years. He could not fight in America. The decision was overturned by an all-white eight man Supreme Court panel. The U.S

was drummed out of boxing for thre

Senator from North Carolina, Stom Thurman, a segregationist, did not vote. Ali was an essential American. He continued on even though people denigrated him for his brashness and who spat on his religion, and called him a coward and unpatriotic. He was an American and a contradiction of a nation. Ali Was 25.

He WORE a sliver sports coat; a white shirt and red tie and black slacks and shoes. He started to trot in the light rain and, I called out, “Mr . Musial, can I have your autograph?” I had practiced my words and didn’t miss a one of them. “Not now, young man, I have to get somewhere” . My only chance, I thought, of getting an autograph of one of the star players of all time. The rain came down hard and I got wet. THEN I HEARD A DOOR OPEN AND THERE STOOD SAM JONES. HE HAD A TOOTHPICK IN HIS MOUTH. I turned to him and said, Mr . Jones will you give me your autograph.” He replied, “‘Sure, come a little closer .” I did and handed him the score card and pencil and he wrote, “Sam Jones, Pitcher .” and handed the card and pencil back to me. I said thanks, and added, “you pitched a great game tonight.” He said, “thanks son” . When I got back on the bus my team mates called out, “Did you get an autograph”? I replied, “Sad Sam Jones!” “Who’s he?” they replied.

woo — 4 My best friend roe I'm my own best friend. My best friend is me. aa It hasn't alwéas been that way. — I've beat me upgu “4nd run me down, su put I keep coming back to me. i T'm honest, true, open —_— and I believe in me. 5 Forgivenes comes—easy—ror me re because my heart is clear and I know the meaning of a honesty and understanding. we 7 t'm my best friend- be have always been, tae | = but I've been friends with people, fe agp Datere, and life. a sauctuary, no, I crave ity Shales vad. ; = put it will not be there. 5 AD Re a With tntettigernce and feeling JO”4 aueleuid seal T recount the peautiful moments of my life.

t am never going to, love someone

as much as I do now.

Te it “ime that I fémably accept

that love is not what T alwits believed it to be?

i Can I have secure, no risk love? * To do nothing is a risk – – ~o do little is a risk – To do a lot is a risk – oe @o-cisk is a_choice

-Losing—is-a-reat thing, winning—is—an-illusion.

I have never owned another persons heart, dont want to, never will,

put inside me is the feeling –

"look, feel, hear my heart.”

it says I love you only.

My best friend is me.

It hasn't always been that way. I've beat me up and run me down, but I keep coming back to me.

I'm honest, true, open

and I believe in me.

Forgiveness is easy

and I know the meaning of understanding,

I'm glad that I'm my best friend and believe I always will. I've been friends with people, nature, life, and now I am with me. 8-23-98 jre I Love You

Is there a sanctuary? No, Yet I crave it. It simply will not come.

With intelligence and feeling,

I recount the beautiful moments of my life.

I am never going to love someone

as much as I do now.

Is it time that I finally accept

that love is not what I believed it to be?

Can I have secure, no risk love? To do nothing is a risk.

To do little or a lot is a risk. To risk is a choice.

Losing is a real thing,

winning is an illusion.

What is important is to try, and try at least one more time.

I have never owned another persons heart,

don't want to, never will,

but inside me is the feeling –

"look, feel, hear my heart." it says I love you.

I believe I have finally met someone who can be my happiness.

Everything I do, think, believe

is in a simple formula,

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My car is in the shop – trouble with seats, windows, etc. I will have time to work on my book. It is turning into a enjoyable activity. Your card and words encouraged me. They came at a good time. Thanks. It spurred me to ask for a visit with a counselor. A visit with a counselor was helpful and encouraging. It was VERY positive. I took a list for her to review. And photos of our woods visit. She was complimentary on both the list and photos. I told her that I want to be happy like I was in the photos. I said, “That is who I am when I am doing something I love and sharing it with someone”. She would help. She added a comment, “See me in two weeks. I think you are doing great and our meetings won’t be long’’. She gave me a hug and a smile behind her mask. I have tried to space events to give them attention. They seem to come in bunches. JOYCE, You have advised me to let things go and move on. That is what I want to do. I visited with my son and Jay for 30-40 minutes on live face time. and laughed and celebrated our stories and lives.

My first car was a 1954 Ford custom 4-door. It had a radio as its only accessory.

It was an automatic when it was cool to have a stick. The green paint faded and became streaky when it was polished, which was often. I took good care of the car and later sold it to a man that loved ‘54 Fords – any color and any model.

My next car was a 58 Pontiac Chief. It was white and black, 4- door and it had a radio. It had bench seats, lots and lots of chrome and white side wall tires. The car weighed about 4400 pounds and got about eight miles to the gallon when a gallon of gas cost about 22 cents.

I had had the car for about six months when I and it was involved in a wreck. It was 1961 and I was 20. The wreck was on Route 4, five miles north of Carlyle, IL. A pick-up truck ran a stop sign (Keysport Road) and my car smashed into the truck. My passenger, Jerry Simmons, was not hurt, but I received a broken knee. The two men in the truck were not so lucky. One was killed. The insurance company for the driver of the truck paid for repairing my car. I was treated for my injury that would later be the basis of my failing a physical exam when I was drafted by the Army. The Vietnam War was not yet heated up and there were plenty of volunteers and other draftees to fill the needs.

The accident was the only collision accident that I was ever involved in as a driver. I was not at fault. The driver of the truck was given a ticket for failure to stop at a stop sign. My attorney settled the law suit out of court and I received a small settlement.

I hit two deer with two different cars; one car was a VW and the other a Pontiac Fiero (1995). Both cars are small and both cars had limited damage to right front fenders. Also, the VW was hit by a fast flying duck (in Indiania — 1964) and caused as much damage as did the deer (also 1964). The damages were less than $500 each.

I owned a VW when I got married in 1971 and I would own several VWs after that. I was provided company cars from 1972 through 1996 and not once had an accident or a claim. I kept a VW for awhile as my personal car, and we (my wife and I) bought a 1975 Chevrolet Chevelle as our personal family car. I do not recall a single ticket or traffic violation while driving company cars. | did receive a few tickets later in my personal car. The tickets were years apart

My first car was a 1954 Ford custom 4-door. It had a radio as its only accessory. It was an automatic when it was cool to have a stick. The green paint faded and became streaky when it was polished, which was often. I took good care of the car and later sold it to a man that loved ‘54 Fords — any color and any model.

My next car was a 58 Pontiac Chief. It was white and black, 4-door and it had a radio. It had bench seats, lots and lots of chrome and white side wall tires. The car weighed about 4400 pounds and got about eight miles to the gallon when a gallon of gas cost about 22 cents.

Thad had the car for about six months when I and it was involved in a wreck. It was 1961 and I was 20. The wreck was on Route 4, five miles north of Carlyle, IL. A pick-up truck ran a stop sign and my car smashed into the truck. My passenger, Jerry Simmons, was not hurt, but I received a broken knee. The two men in the truck were not so lucky. One was killed. The insurance company for the driver of the truck paid for repairing my car. I was treated for my injury that would later be the basis of my failing a physical exam when I was drafted by the Army. The Vietnam War was not yet heated up and there were plenty of volunteers and other draftees to fill the needs.

The accident was the only collision accident that I was ever involved in as a driver. I was not at fault. The driver of the truck was given a ticket for failure to stop at a stop sign. My attorney settled the law suit out of court and I received a small settlement.

I hit two deer with two different cars; one car was a VW and the other a Pontiac Fiero. Both cars are small and both cars had limited damage to right front fenders. Also, the VW was hit by a fast flying duck (in Indiana) and caused as much damage as did the deer. The damages were less than $500 each.

I owned a VW when I got married in 1971 and I would own several VWs after that. I was provided company cars from 1972 through 1996 and not once had an accident or a claim. I kept a VW for awhile as my personal car, and we (my wife and I) bought a 1975 Chevrolet Chevelle as our personal family car. I do not recall a single ticket or traffic violation while driving company cars. I did receive a few tickets later in my personal car. The tickets were years apart

My mother and fat md so did my siblings, relatives, and friends. My father taught me to take leaves, cultivate a garden, and pick corn, mow grass, and cut weeds. From him, | learned to pour concrete, clean out gutters and wells, install a windowpane, sweep the walk, dig a posthole, ride a horse, milk a cow, butcher a hog, and train a dog.

My mother, sisters, and aunts taught me to sew

buttons on garments; to quilt, stretch curtains and mend socks. I learned to wash, hang, and iron clothes; can peaches, butter beans, apples, and grape juice. I learned

to cook and how bread rises (well maybe not how bread rises).

My brothers taught me to walk rails, swim, climb trees, and shoot slingshots, a rifle, pistol and a shotgun.

I learned to sharpen knives, use a hammer and screwdriver, a saw, an axe, and split firewood.

I learned to throw rocks, balls, dirt clods, corncobs, and skip rocks on ponds and pools of water. I learned to play ball, hit bottle caps; jump, run, crawl, and scoot. I learned to slide, fall, skip and tumble, and to get up, brush off, and keep going.

I learned to catch and clean fish, and to eat them

– carefully. I learned to hunt and respect game. I learned to cut down trees and steal honey from a beehive.

I learned about nature and animals; to be quiet and listen carefully and study everything in the woods and fields. |

saw and marveled at tiny flowers, spider webs, shrews,

rain drops and icicles. From their tracks, I learned to identify the animals that made them. J learned about, creeks, ponds, rocks, trees and grass, and fire. I learned from the stars, sun, moon, the wind, rain, snow, darkness and light.

I learned to read and write. I never learned to sing, but I can sing along. And, most of all, I learned to say “thank you” to all of my teachers. I was your student.

John Casey 2000 344

Guess what? My nose stayed on and there was only pinkish skin from the scrape. There was lots of snot, a little bit of blood, but no nose less little boy.

In minutes I was back at the slope. No one had missed me. I chickened out on my other runs down the slope that afternoon.

What does this have to do with my mom? Plenty! A calm mother quieting an excited son. This was repeated again and again as grew up. Sometimes it was gravel falls, tree falls, briar patch falls, and bicycle falls and just slips and falls. I managed to avoid broken bones, but the blood always washed off. The iodine, merichrome, proxide, and salve were applied to wounds, gashes, cuts, bruises and the badges of courage Band-Aids and gauze wrapped limbs helped. But my mom applied the healing with calmness and assurance of complete recovery.

The next stories: Yen mnekulos Plem. Picking strawberries in a dewy patch. Carving initials in peaches.

Making sour kraut and pickles.

The 13-egg Angel Food Cake.

Cooking a duck. “

A Christmas knife.

Election Day hamburgers

Sylvia Jobe

Clean clothes and broken dishes

Spoiled green apples

Sewing a baseball uniform

Curved needles. | Catching small bass. &z&

John Casey, August 6, 2001. 2

ap rem Comat TST Smain SASS +N Pooks

Yio Ware, ater Kool fer the Lok. . She folep wits 4. Senge Cade Path ered 3, ea ee o,

Hérm ou Aor Bool “dl She iy te Lone

5 ole ae chap ie Be ete ee e bh San ve Ob bw ™ to ke agg ak

I have been giving things away during my decluttering phase. A gift might be a flower, a glass, a waiter jug, a magazine, a rock with their name, tools, Knives, bowls, or bird feeders and bird seed or a sunflower. There is no order to the gift. And, you know what? I'll get a gift or a thank you, something. ItS always a surprise. We don't keep count.

Expect nothing, accept everything…

I am someone who cannot be dominated by anyone or anything. When I’m expecting nothing, I’m living in the moment. I’m simply embracing my situation as it comes.

My personal assertions: 1AM WILLING 1 AM WIRED TO WIN 1 GOT THIS | EMBRACE THE UNCERTAINTY 1 AM WHAT I DO’ 1 AM RELENTLESS 1 EXPECT NOTHING AND ACCEPT EVERYTHING

If you want your life to be different, you have to make it happen.

I'ma reader. | know no faster way to learn ways of the small world | live in. | may be aC or B student, but | am aA learner. The first 7/8’s of my life has been —- let me think ——- interesting.

The preposterous statement by the Invalde, Texas police chief that the reason the police did not barge into the school as the shooter killed 1g children and two teachers was because the police only had pistols.

Further, 20 keys were tried that didn’t work The door was not locked. Fear? Shock? Unwillingness?) PUSH THE DOOR IN.

You have to act. Answers don’t come to you without your help, or without someone who acts when they can help.

John

My personal remarks

I have been giving things away during my decluttering phase. A gift might be a flower, a glass, a jug, a magazine, a rock with their name, tools, Knives, bowls, or bird feeders and bird seed or a sunflower. There is no order to the gift. And, you know what? i”ll get a gift or a thank you, something. Its always a surprise. We don't keep count.

Expect nothing, accept everything…

I am someone who cannot be dominated by anyone or anything. When I’m expecting nothing, I’m living in the moment. I’m simply embracing my situation as it comes.

My personal assertions:

1 AM WILLING

1 AM WIRED TO WIN

| GOT THIS

| EMBRACE THE UNCERTAINTY

| AM WHAT I DO’

| AM RELENTLESS

1 EXPECT NOTHING AND ACCEPT EVERYTHING

If you want your life to be different, you have to make it happen.

I'm a reader. | know no faster way to learn ways of the small world | live in. | may be aC or B student, but | am aA learner. The first 7/8’s of my life has been —- let me think ——- interesting.

The preposterous statement by he Invalde, Texas police chief that the reason the police did not barge into the school as the shooter killed 19 children and two teachers was because the police only had pistols.

Further, 20 keys were tried that didn’t work The door was not locked. Fear? Shock? Unwillingness?- PUSH THE DOOR IN.

you have to act. Answers don’t come to you without your help, or without someone who acts when they can help.

John

My personal remarks

I have been giving things away during my decluttering phase. A gift might be a flower, a glass, a waiter jug, a magazine, a rock with their name, tools, knives, bowls, or bird feeders and bird seed or a sunflower. There is no order to the gift. And, you know what? I'll get a gift or a thank you, something. Its always a surprise. We don't keep count.

Expect nothing, accept everything…

I am someone who cannot be dominated by anyone or anything. When I’m expecting nothing, I’m living in the moment. I’m simply embracing my situation as it comes.

My personal assertions:

1AM WILLING

| AM WIRED TO WIN

| GOT THIS

| EMBRACE THE UNCERTAINTY

1 AM WHAT I DO’

| AM RELENTLESS

| EXPECT NOTHING AND ACCEPT EVERYTHING

If you want your life to be different, you have to make it happen.

I'ma reader. | know no faster way to learn ways of the small world | live in. | may be aC or B student, but | ama A learner. The first 7/8’s of my life has been —- let me think ——- interesting.

The preposterous statement by the Invalde, Texas police chief that the reason the police did not barge into the school as the shooter killed 19 children and two teachers was because the police only had pistols.

Further, 20 keys were tried that didn’t work The door was not locked. Fear? Shock? Unwillingness?. PUSH THE DOOR IN.

You have to act. Answers don’t come to you without your help, or without someone who acts when they can help.

John

My personal remarks I have been giving things away during my decluttering phase. A gift might be a flower, a glass, a waiter jug, a magazine, a rock with their name, tools, knives, bowls, or bird feeders and bird seed or a sun flower. There is no order to the gift. And, you know what? I’ll get a gift or a thank you, something. It’s always a surprise. We don’t keep count. Expect nothing, accept everything… I am someone who cannot be dominated by anyone or anything. When I’m expecting nothing, I’m living in the moment. I’m simply embracing my situation as it comes. My personal assertions: I am willing I am wired to win I got this I embrace the uncertainty I am what I do’ I am relentless I expect nothing and accept everything If you want your life to be different, you have to make it happen.

I’m a reader. I know no faster way to learn ways of the small world I live in. I may be a C or B student, but I am a A learner. The first 7/8’s of my life has been —- let me think ——- interesting. The preposterous statement by the Invalde, Texas police chief that the reason the police did not barge into the school as the shooter killed 19 children and two teachers was because the police only had pistols. Further, 20 keys were tried that didn’t work The door was not locked. Fear? Shock? Unwillingness? PUSH THE DOOR IN. You have to act. Answers don’t come to you without your help, or without someone who acts when they can help. John

My personal remarks

T have been giving things away during my decluttering phase. A gift might be a flower, a glass, a jug, a magazine, a rock with their name, tools, knives, bowls, or bird feeders and bird seed or a sunflower. There is no order to the gift. And, you know what? i“ll get a gift or a thank you, something. It$ always a surprise. We don't keep count.

Expect nothing, accept everything…

I am someone who cannot be dominated by anyone or anything. When I’m expecting nothing, I'm living in the moment. I’m simply embracing my situation as it comes.

My personal assertions:

1AM WILLING

1 AM WIRED TO WIN

1 GOT THIS

| EMBRACE THE UNCERTAINTY

1 AM WHAT I DO’

1 AM RELENTLESS

| EXPECT NOTHING AND ACCEPT EVERYTHING

Tf you want your life to be different, you have to make it happen.

ma reader. | know no faster way to learn ways of the small world | live in. | may be aC or B student, but | am aA learner. The first 7/8’s of my life has been —- let me think ——- interesting.

The preposterous statement by he Invalde, Texas police chief that the reason the police did not barge into the school as the shooter killed 19 children and two teachers was

because the police only had pistols. Further, 20 keys were tried that didn’t work The door was not locked. Fear?

Shock? Unwillingness?: PUSH THE DOOR IN.

‘you have to act. Answers don’t come to you without your help, or without someone

who acts when they can help.

John

My social life improved a bit and it helped me. I need the contact. I need good friends. I avoid negative people. I’m not as jolly or happy as I wish. I am quieter. Several good friends have died in the last two months and it saddened me. A holiday trip to Boston and Florida zapped my strength. I ate irregularly (seems like others did not eat regularly) and did not have fruits, vegetables, juices, or safe nibbles. I was on five planes and traveled almost 5,000 miles on my trip. I am not a good traveler. Arrival 1-1/2 hours before boarding, security checks pat downs, a wheel chair used to connect flights (two times) 30 min loading, flight time. Bumpy rides. I was uncomfortable at staying at a condo in Florida. 4 days. The owner was 74, in grief of her last husband (4 years ago). I felt I was a odd man in a family gathering. I cooked my own breakfast 3 times and made a soup, Food at restaurants was only fair, one, a celebrated famous restaurant – Christmas eve – was a three hour ordeal with overpriced food that was lousy. It was as loud as a football game crowd. I suffered. I was with 9 people who talked about Christmas’s past for 15 years. The bill ‘$787 and tip was $160. Grandma picked up the bill, others tossed in $20 for the tip – she is now rich and an alcoholic and depressed. We took photos at a christmas display. I sank when I got home.

Hank Sauer, “The Mayor of Wrigley” played baseball one year for the St. Louis Cardinals. I don’t recall the year. He was 38 years old and a big fellow, almost 6'’4'’’and weighed about 235 pounds. On one of my few trips to see a major league game at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis, I saw Hank make a shoe string catch of a low liner to left field. He was the Cardinal left fielder and the liner came directly at him. Hank came straight in, leaned over and with his mitt at shoe top level caught the ball. He never raised completely up until he had reached the infield dirt. It was the 3™ out of the inning. My seat was in the left field stands in “knot hole corner. My ticket cost a dollar and a quarter.

I particularly remembered Hank Sauer because I wore his Cub uniform one summer when I was playing Legion ball for Metropolis, IL. The year was 1957.

The American Legion team had requested uniforms from big league clubs and no doubt our coach or manager knew someone in the Cub organization and sure enough they sent us some stuff and old worn road gray uniforms.

My home was about 31 / miles from Metropolis and about 22 miles from my high school in Vienna, IL. I lived in Tunnel Hill, IL, a village of about 35 residents. I couldn’t be at the practice when the uniforms arrived that late spring. Hank was still a Cub and he was full-grown. I wasn’t. The other guys on the team got to pick and sort uniforms, so to speak, obviously by rank and file and size. Hank’s uniform was left. It was number 13, 23, or 43, I can’t remember. Oh, well, it was a uniform and I needed one.

Before the next game, on the bus, the bag with Hank’s pants and shirt were given to me and I was proud to have them. I took them home that night and decided to try them on the next morning.

Whoa! First donning the shirt (minus the Cub logo) was not good. The shirt reached to my calves and the sleeves reached to my wrists. Do you think the pants would fit? NO they didn’t! I was 16, weighed about 125 pounds and stood about 5’ 5” tall.

All of the other guys had received a uniform that either fit or needed to be traded to another team member, or slightly altered. My situation was different. I’m a third of a hundred miles away to try to trade with anyone and my rank and file was nothing, being only one of three out-of-towners to make the team. I was stuck with Mr. Sauer’s old gray uniform. It was wool, all the buttons were there, the loops were in the pants and only one tear in the left knee (at my ankle) was present.

My mom washed the uniform in very hot water knowing that wool shrinks. It already had, of course, and the uniform only came out cleaner. We went to work on that two-piece suite right away. I put on the shirt and my mom doubled each sleeve over about 4 to 5 inches and pinned it. Then she did the same to the sides. The tail would just have to hang. Did I tell you that we had orders not to cut the uniform down? Well, we did have the orders, and I wasn’t about to break rules that could jeopardize my playing time, which I though was about to increase. The uniform would have to be carefully sewn by my mom on her sewing machine and hand stitching. When finished hardly a stitch would show. The strip along the sleeve disappeared completely under the fold.

The pants were done about the same way on each leg. The outside seam was folded over several inches, pinned, then sewn. A similar procedure, but this time several fold-overs were necessary to reduce the waist to about 28 or 29 inches for me. Belt loops were pretty close together when mom finished the pants. New elastic in the cuffs would allow me to fold at least 10” of the pants just below my knee and still leave my stirrup socks showing.

I could stuff the long tail of the shirt down into the pants that would serve as my sliding pads. It would work. My mom worked on that uniform for hours, taking time to sew it up real good and when she finished, I was proud to wear it. You had to look real close to see the adjustments she made.

I remembered wearing that uniform right after she had made it fit me at a game in Norris City, IL, a town about 80 miles north of Metropolis. I was catching, and the first batter singled to right field. The second batter popped out. The third batter singled to right and there were runners on first and second. The next batter also singled to right and the runner on second tried to score. The throw from the right fielder came home. I was blocking the plate and the ball and runner reached me at exactly the same time. I caught the ball, tagged the runner who knocked me over and I came up throwing to third, to catch the runner who tried to go from first to third on the hit. Out at the plate! Out at third! Three outs. The Norris City team had just singled three times to right field and no one scored. We went on to win the game and I was proudly wearing Hank Sauer’s uniform.

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My Uniform

Hank Sauer, “The Mayor of Wrigley” played baseball one year for the St. Louis Cardinals. I don’t recall the year. He was 38 years old and a big fellow, almost 6''4'"”’and weighed about 235 pounds. On one of my few trips to see a major league game at Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis, | saw Hank make a shoe string catch of a jow liner to left field. He was the Cardinal left fielder and the liner came directly at him. Hank came straight in, leaned over and with his mitt at shoe top level caught the ball. He never raised completely up until he had reached the infield dirt. It was the 3 out of the inning. My seat was in the left field stands in “knot hole corner. My ticket cost a dollar and a quarter.

I particularly remembered Hank Sauer because I wore his Cub uniform one summer when I was playing Legion ball for Metropolis, IL. The year was 1957.

The American Legion team had requested uniforms from big league clubs and no doubt our coach or manager knew someone in the Cub organization and sure enough they sent us some stuff and old worn road gray uniforms.

My home was about 31 1% miles from Metropolis and about 22 miles from my high school in Vienna, IL. I lived in Tunnel Hill, IL, a village of about 35 residents. I couldn’t be at the practice when the uniforms arrived that late spring. Hank was still a Cub and he was full-grown. I wasn’t. The other guys on the team got to pick and sort uniforms, so to speak, obviously by rank and file and size. Hank’s uniform was left. It was number 13, 23, or 43, can’t remember. Oh, well, it was a uniform and I needed one.

Before the next game, on the bus, the bag with Hank’s pants and shirt were given to me and I was proud to have them. I took them home that night and decided to try them on the next morning.

Whoa! First donning the shirt (minus the Cub logo) was not good. The shirt reached to my calves and the sleeves reached to my wrists. Do you think the pants would fit? NO they didn’t! I was 16, weighed about 125 pounds and stood about 5’ 5” tall.

All of the other guys had received a uniform that either fit or needed to be traded to another team member, or slightly altered. My situation was different. I’m a third of a hundred miles away to try to trade with anyone and my rank and file was nothing, being only one of three out-of-towners to make the team. I was stuck with Mr. Sauer’s old gray uniform. It was wool, all the buttons were there, the loops were in the pants and only one tear in the left knee (at my ankle) was present.

The original page will appear here.

You are your first name, Carol.

Gosh, you could be French or English, perhaps even German with a name like yours.

You have an ability to incorporate practical, constructive and far sighted ideas into your career. You’re a bit of a workaholic and bent on producing tangible results. I'm impressed with you.

You have tasted a large-scale business but I rather imagine you to choose a humanitarian direction. You would be a powerhouse for this service.

You are a reformer.

You are an excellent listener, teacher, and guide. You have a need to be independent and self-assertive. You can and have taken courageous lead and been supercharged. The inner strength you have is uncommon.

You strive for beautiful, comfortable, and a rooted life-style. I imagine that you have attained your goals, and before you are your aspirations. You are authentic, even if your hair is auburn.

“What's in a name?” Just about everything. Your first name touches only the tip of the iceberg. All of the letters of the entire name round out the personality picture of you. The sound of your name sparks feelings in you and the listener. Your name has vibes that people can feel.

You are your first name, and you are marvelous.

You are your first name, Kathy. First, you are practical, have common sense, and are disciplined. How am I doing so far?

Honesty and being punctual are excellent traits you possess. You are rather independent and very candor.

You have an unconquerable nature. You admire strength because you are strong. Yet, you have compassion and understanding of human frailties and weaknesses.

Inwardly, you are materially ambitious. You are efficient. Responsible. Organized. You will fight to maintain respectable life-style.

You balance work and play. You are private person with goals and communication gifts. You have a touch of bravado, showmanship, and you are never dull.

You are provocative. You like to get “triggered up.” You are aware of yourself and of others. You see everything and I expect you hear everything too. You feel good too.

The sound of your name sparks feelings for you and the listener. Your first name has vibes. You are your first name, and you are marvelous.

NINE’

Sure enough, Neil Armstrong was about to put his feet on the moon. “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Or something like that, and he stepped on the moon. Wow!

I was lying on the carpeted basement floor at Beth’s best friend’s house in St. Charles, MO. Beth and I had spent the earlier part of the day together, but we were not about to miss this historical event. We should have written something right then, or carved our name on a coin, anything. But we didn’t and had to remember the event in our minds, which I have numerous times. It’s 2002 and that was some 33 years ago. I have never forgotten that night and Beth Lahrs.

I adored Beth Lahrs. I had met her several months before at a music spot in downtown St. Louis after a Cardinal game. A bunch of us guys stopped at a popular spot for a beer and fun. There were eight or so of us. The music was loud and we tried to talk above the noise, but we were failing. Harry Belli sat nearest the band and had asked that they turn down the volume several times. They ignored him and finally Harry reached behind his chair and pulled the plug on the music and the place went quiet.

While the lights were on and the investigation was going on as to what happened to the music, I caught the eyes of Beth Lahr looking right at me. She was smashing to look at and when she smiled, I smiled back. Electricity came on inside me and it was also evident that electricity was missing from the band. Behind Harry’s chair the lines were all bunched up but not plugged into the wall socket. When it was corrected the band resumed its pounding sounds right in Harry’s ear. It was only to be a matter of time before something happened.

I remarked about the foxy lady at the other table and said I was going to go over there. Harry and the others could not hear me and Harry again pulled the plug on the band. The bouncers were watching us already and saw Harry’s action. We were asked to leave — all of us.

We started to balk, but when more heavies came up, it was obvious that we had to leave, but not before I quickly made it to Beth’s table and said that I loved her and wanted her name and that I would call her as soon as I could. Magically, she gave me a tiny slip of paper with her name on it and her name, Beth.

I called her the next evening and magically she answered. She did not believe I would call. Still smitten by her alluring eyes and dark beauty I asked her for a date. No is not a word I wanted to hear, but it was what she said. We talked for a bit and I asked if I could call back. “OK.” So, I did. It was a few days later. We talked a few times and she agreed to a date — “just friends, OK.”

Beth and I went everywhere in and around St. Louis that summer and into the winter. We went to events, movies, parties, games, and just hanging out. She was from Iowa. She was a high school teacher and an

NO DOUBT ABOUT IT

Sandi is an accomplished woman. Her efficiency is unmatched and her wisdom is outstanding. It wasn’t always that way. She learned to deal with life and the irrational life around her.

Sandi is of Polish descent and from Chicago, a second Czecklozavakia almost. Her family was and is all-important to her. She obviously was raised well, because she is a terrific mother to her two grown daughters and a wonderful grandmother to her grandsons.

Sandi makes and keeps friends for life. She has just enough friends and gets as close to them as she wants to. There is no push and shove to her friendship, just give and take —- mainly give. Once she reminded me that if I was to remain her friend, I must share my friends with her. I thought about that. If 1 was proud to be her friend as she was proud of me being hers, then my friends would be her friends too.

All of my friends have names now and they pop up now and then in conversations and the story lines are intact. Now when I start a story and use “my friend” in it I will add their name to the story. .

Sandi is practical and logical. I’m not, or at least I wasn’t. The stories I can dream up about what happened or what I thought might happen bends my imagination. Intrigue, mystery, and psychological explanations were common for me to explain what may be happening and when I told a story I may have exaggerated. Sandi let me rattle out my story, and usually brought logic into the picture and helped me see a different side of it. She did not insist that her way or that the story line had to be changed, just to look at it differently before sealing my mind.

She reads and applies recipes. Her finished product comes out great. She can match the taste of a dish exactly. She may experiment or use an ingredient that is similar, but generally holds true to the recipe. She can sew more than buttons on a coat, and her house looks like Martha Stewart’s because of her domestic skills and craftsmanship. She paints, decorates, gardens, and designs her house and surroundings.

She will not complain and dislikes whining in everyone. I have seen her grow stronger and become the outstanding person she is. She has a good sense of humor, but doesn’t tell many jokes. Sandi is attractive, pretty, cute — all those things, and my best friend. I believe she cares for me in a special way and that our friendship is enduring. I am as relaxed with her as anyone I have ever known.

No forcible changes to Mother Nature’s intents No variations of tongues or documented events

No paths to break free of our earthly place No clashes over borders, religion or race

No bridges to cross, No one to be our boss No nets for fish No wishes to wish No guns of steel No garments to feel No wheels that roll Nothing to make us toil

No skyward accomplishments no writings on stone No staining or polishing of our galactic home

No hinge of stone or that great big wall No one to tell us about it all

No flashes of thought that let us thrive No one to know because we’re not alive

Inspired by my son’s question – What would happen if there were no humans?

gold on their wrists and chains of gold around their necks. If one of them breaks, anyone that gets hold of the pieces may keep them. ‘‘No one follows a chump.” W.C. Fields.

My favorite Masters Champions used three kinds of intuition when they won at Augusta; ordinary, expert, and strategic. Ordinary intuition is gut instinct. It involves a vague notion of key points and direction (Fuzzy Zoeller, 1979). Expert intuition is a snap judgment that corresponds to the power of knowledge based on extensive facts and experience. (Phil Michelson’s 6-iron from 195 yards— 2010.). Strategic intuition is a slow, thoughtful way that is a deep and wide process of reflective thinking through all the possibilities — (Jack Nicklaus, age, 46, 1986).

Zooming deep and wide is a skill I have not cultivated to any degree. I tend towards gut instinct mixed with snap judgment constantly being updated for new possibilities with rich experiences. “…/magination encircles the world.” Einstein.

White belts will go away (please), but roars of patrons, green wrapped food, and brilliant flowers are painted on my memory cells. I hope they never fade.

I was a patron at the 2013 Masters and wore a WALDO shirt.

John Casey 4/2013

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A 1948 Cadillac cost $2,833 in 1948 which was more than the average pay for 1947 of $1,436.

Population in 1947 was 143,414,000 give or take a few thousand. Add about 120,000,000 to that figure for today.

Did you know that Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa (not to be confused with Piasa) will

lose its balance and topple in 2151. That’s probably when the Cubs (Bless their

heart) will win another World Series. The tower was started in 1174. “What the were they thinking?”

The Hilbilly Howler, Elvis Presley, Army number 53310761, was 28 in 1962. He was born in 1934.

A few Edsels were still around after their start in 1957. They were big, heavy, and ugly, but wouldn’t it be fun to have one now?

Sputnik was launched by the Russians on Oct. 4, 1957. Didn’t they send up a dog in one of their crafts? Did we call it “The Muttnik?”

Our own Alan Sheppard went up in space for 15 minutes at an altitude of 115 miles in the Freedom 7 Capsule on May 25, 1961. Didn’t we send up a chimp earlier?

John Glenn, our first Astronaut, orbited Earth on 2/26/62 in Friendship 7. Same Capsule?

Chubby Checkers was doing the “Twist” at the Peppermint Lounge in 1962, but the song came out Oct. 18, 1961. Now guys could dance without a partner too. Can you TWIST AND SHOUT?

Fidel Castro came to power on January 16, 1959 with a little help from his American friends. Some thought Cuba would be the 50" state, but Hawaii became the 50" in 1959.

Speaking of Cuba, there was an Invasion of the Bay of Pigs thing that failed and 1179 Cuban exiles were found guilty. Just a bit later, Oct. 28, 1961, there was a Cuban Missile Crisis that shook the world. Kennedy and Kruschev (shoe-banger at the United Nations meeting) were at odds and John out toughed Nikita. Are these any way related to the November 22, 1963 assination of John?

The Beatles topped the music polls after a hard day’s night in 1962, but they would not reach America until 2/14/1964. Then, John Lennon, 23, Paul McCartney, 21, George Harrison, 21, and Ringo Starr, 23, sang to all the girls, “I Want To Hold Your Hand.”

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Darla, just to let you know that counseling is on going with me, but different than the one-on-one with you. I have a big brother that listens to me — really. He is at a distance though and both of us are frugal. My son does too from time to time and there are a few close friends that a pound or two of weight is lightened at times. I generally carry the anvil though and the road appears to be up hill. It is always against the wind.

Recently: I was carjacked and can barely tell the story. It was a struggle for life. My car was totaled. Bad experience with the police. I have retreated into a cave. I want to carry a staff when I leave it for work. I'm thinking of “carrying” and may get my FOID card again. It’s noticeable that | do not jump into conversations and my voice is lower and manners are guarded. I stay on the West side of town these days — daylight time.

My son is struggling more these days than before. His health is concerning to him and to me. He tries not to show it, but it is obvious. His mom has minimum contact with him. I plan to step up communication and show emotion about her not contacting him. I have appealed before, but think I will go a bit farther and show some anger.

I continue to take medication and believe it levels me out. I continue to show extreme kindness and compassion towards others. My golf game is improving and it is generally under control too. Steam must be building up in me. When I miss a short putt I just go up and tap it in and put the putter back in the bag. Perhaps it is time to cuss and rant and raise the club up in the air and dare a lightning strike.

There is a glimmer of humor returning to me though. I like that.

I plan to alter my activities and discontinue a search for a companion on the net. I have had thousands of hits and emails and have responded to hundreds. My enthusiasm is waning. My writing has been a hit and it appears to shock many that I express myself the way I do. The turn off to me is how many of the match.com people are exactly alike. It’s like a Miss America contest when everyone wants to end hunger and war in the world. Everyone does not “look younger than their age.” They all are not “blessed” with wonderful children, live full lives, are great dancers and wonderful cooks, like outdoors, and look equally well in heels or sneakers, and love animals, especially “horses.” They want a person who likes what they like and who will cuddle on the couch, open their doors, and take them to Ruth Chris*s’ The ones who say they are about average, aren’t. Size matters to me and I refuse to date someone I can’t lift. | sometimes doubt their culinary talents too. [ don’t doubt that they “are past camping out.”

You are one of my favorite people and I’m sure I'll be back sometime soon. I just thought about messaging like this. L

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Jerry, Courage is an essay I wrote several years ago. I'll share it with you.

You are remarkable; for your kindness, generosity, and genuine goodness. I really like you.

I don’t want you to suffer. There’s a lot of life ahead of you. Don’t confuse mourning with sadness. Mourning is now and sudden. It can’t be washed away easily. You hurt.

I believe though, when your character is tested your strength will steady you. Answers will not find you, you must find them. Turn and face your now life. You will get better. Move past mourning. Your memory of a true connection to someone who has guided you will still guide you. Be proud of that.

Sometime you will have to help others through their sorrows. You will do this by reaching out, asking questions, sometimes without getting permission because it is the right thing to do.

Get on sun time. Be awake when the sun rises. It rose today at 7:14 AM. It takes time for all cylinders to start working. Change a few routines: wear a different jacket, shirt, shoes, an Going the same things.

If you have a photo you love, consider looking at it differently.

“Good morning love, I miss you’. Say it cheerfully. It will chase away the blues. “Thanks love, for surprising me, supporting me, when I needed it”. It will give you strength. “Today, love, I’m going to do something I haven’t done (in a long time, or ever) “ O two;; be a new adventure. *

Consider putting the photo somewhere besides your wallet or a familiar place. Put it in a private place. Say, “I’m alright now love, you helped me unconditionally. My memory keeps you with me. Thanks’.

Cardiologist. Thanks for reviewing

1am 81 (DOB 10/30/40

I’ve lived alone since 1998

| am retired (banking and real estate)

| receive SS – A&B plan

| rent a unfurnished apartment and pay my utilities, etc.

My furniture and stuff is eclectic and not expensive

The landlord pays taxes and insurance

| cook 95% of my meals and wash dishes – about twice a day

| clean my apartment often and deep clean when it needs it\

| do laundry often

| plant flowers and feed birds & squirrels

| have decluttered my apt – its on going

| own a 2009 automobile

| write stories and have been published a few times

lam writing a book about myself – with my son’s help

| have one son, he lives in Boston. | don’t see him often

| was born in Southern Illinois – Tunnel Hill –

| am the fifth born of eight (4 boys and 3 sisters) and the third son Still living – a older brother, two younger sisters and myself My health has declined. 2002 a 5-way by pass – 2013 heart/ general health.

| have lived an interesting life, both growing up and becoming a adult. | believe | am very fortunate

Shaw, fou, Soak , Huet V) okey Ulbre

vi ie onl ‘theo Vise Po Butt Kind,

The start of my study of the Civil War – It was the Spring of 1987

Standing on the bridge that crossed BULL RUN at Manassas, Virginia.1982 I reflected on the battle field of the opening of the first great battle of the war. It was a good day and I could see a panorama of the field of conflict.

I produced an image of the Union army approaching and crossing the bridge Has on to attack the Confederates. I imagined General Thomas Jackson standing “like a stone wall” on a ridge as his men rushed into the fight. I imagined musket fire, the boom of cannons and the yells of men from both sides as they clashed.

But there was no way I could imagine the real battle. Since then I have been quite active in reading and searching about some of the great battles. I am a Buff Historian. Buff is like an amateur. I am not expected to be perfect or exact in the accounts and descriptions and impressions or viewpoints of the WAR. I LIKE IT LIKE THAT.

Forgive me for any mistakes or errors that I made – eorrect ame-on-the-spot-—please. Surely I have read 366-400 books, pamphlets, magazines, and stories of the Civil War written by men and women of both sides of the War. Each visit to a battlefield site, museum or visitors center I was encouraged to study the local history and meld it into the whole.

The original page will appear here.

In October 21/21 I decided to quit painting rocks for others and if I painted any they would be for events or dates and holidays. That date was also when I begin to declutter and organize my apartment. My goal was to finish before winter ended. Decluttering isn’t just to get rid of things, it is to keep what you really like and that fits you and to put away things to review later. AND, GET RID OF THINGS THAT DON’T. I’m almost there. I’ve had help. I’m grateful for my friends. Today I was reminded by the TV clip about caregivers in dire need of relief and/or help with dealing with their own health issues, fatigue, burn- out, stress, anxiety, and long hours. One painted rock stood out as recognizing the care I received by someone. It was not about one profession or job. I LOVE WHAT YOU DO I LOVE WHO YOU ARE I have given a rock with that message to several people. They receive them with acknowledgement of the gratitude of everyday people recognizing what they do for others. I did not limit it to only caregivers. Here is an idea that I am considering that is directed to caregivers. Organizing crews of people to paint hundreds of rocks with this simple message and give them away to caregivers. My apartment is large enough and decluttered enough to create a place to paint the rocks. I have two rooms that would be used. I have tables, chairs, etc Several small crews – 4 or 5 people – can paint lots of rocks in a short amount of time. A two hour session is suggested. Four sessions a week. Young people are also suggested. School children from grade schools or high schools, selected by their teachers or counselors. Talent is not a requirement. Rubber gloves may be.

Human’s capacity for friendliness and cooperation has helped us thrive.

For people to solve problems they can’t be afraid or aggressive toward one another. If we evolved to be friendly how do we explain our great potential for cruelty?

You can’t force people to change their behavior. Memory is a trickster, and may make you think the past was better that it really was.

Unsolicited advice is rarely wanted or followed. Some people benefit more from giving advice than receiving it,

Wisdom is best imparted through creative work such as poetry, art, drama, and other forms of expression. It can help us derive meaning from our past, present, and future life circumstances. It allows us to see things about ourselves and our environment from different perspectives.

“Let It Be” by the Beadles come to mind. My own message to me: Be an engaged explorer. Everything | do is a choice. | rarely put off acting on an idea that seems to fit the time and place.

Grief has always been a difficult emotion in America. Pain is inevitable; Suffering is optional. We want to know “Will we ever be back to normal?” A vast majority of people, probably 90%, will come to terms with what’s gone and resolve their loss. Unfortunately, there is a percentage who don’t get over loss, at least for a couple years.

Grief is difficult, but it is not always overwhelming. It knocks us sideways, takes us out of the normal path of functioning. for a while. but it rarely flattens us.

lam no stranger to loss. Sometimes | feel | am in quick sand and sinking beyond recovery. When we’re so deeply attached to someone that the attachment is part our identity. Our brain is geared toward interactions with that person. The person is still in our head. Our sadness cripples us. Our brain has to recalibrate what it means to never see the person again – without completely erasing the image within.

It hurts like hell, but what can you do to get beyond it? What do | need to do? What am | able to do? That involves optimism. and resolve to adjust to ease the emotional pain. A piece of me is gone with this loss, but I’m still here. | can go on.

When you feel pain, it’s hard to believe that you won't always feel pain. One of the the things that people hate is when they’re grieving is for a person to tell them that they'll be OK. What do you mean OK? It hurts like crazy. How can you tell me I’m going to be OK?

We need to talk to ourselves a little bit about it. What’s happening? What's happening now? How do | deal with this? What do! do? You can answer those questions. You're capable of it, you are not a basket case of grief. You are resilient. The biggest question is how can you move forward, honoring the losses you have sustained. ?

Odds and ends, discussions with myself Human’s capacity for friendliness and cooperation has helped us thrive. For people to solve problems they can’t be afraid or aggressive toward one another. If we evolved to be friendly how do we explain our great potential for cruelty? You can’t force people to change their behavior. Memory is a trickster, and may make you think the past was better that it really was. Unsolicited advice is rarely wanted or followed. Some people benefit more from giving advice than receiving it, Wisdom is best imparted through creative work such as poetry, art, drama, and other forms of expression. It can help us derive meaning from our past, present, and future life circumstances. It allows us to see things about ourselves and our environment from different perspectives. “Let It Be” by the Beadles come to mind. My own message to me: Be an engaged explorer. Everything I do is a choice. I rarely put off acting on an idea that seems to fit the time and place. Grief has always been a difficult emotion in America. Pain is inevitable; Suffering is optional. We want to know “Will we ever be back to normal?” A vast majority of people, probably 90%, will come to terms with what’s gone and resolve their loss. Unfortunately, there is a percentage who don’t get over loss, at least for a couple years. Grief is difficult, but it is not always overwhelming. It knocks us sideways, takes us out of the normal path of functioning. for a while. but it rarely flattens us. I am no stranger to loss. Sometimes I feel I am in quick sand and sinking beyond recovery. When we’re so deeply attached to someone that the attachment is part our identity. Our brain is geared toward interactions with that person. The person is still in our head. Our sadness cripples us. Our brain has to recalibrate what it means to never see the person again – without completely erasing the image within. It hurts like hell, but what can you do to get beyond it? What do I need to do? What am I able to do? That involves optimism. and resolve to adjust to ease the emotional pain. A piece of me is gone with this loss, but I’m still here. I can go on. When you feel pain, it’s hard to believe that you won’t always feel pain. One of the the things that people hate is when they’re grieving is for a person to tell them that they’ll be OK. What do you mean OK? It hurts like crazy. How can you tell me I’m going to be OK? We need to talk to ourselves a little bit about it. What’s happening? What’s happening now? How do I deal with this? What do I do? You can answer those questions. You’re capable of it, you are not a basket case of grief. You are resilient. The biggest question is how can you move forward, honoring the losses you have sustained.?

Ihave used the word “empathy” repeatedly in my recent communications. It is the word, if forced to pick, I would select as the quintessential virtue for people. It is the broadest and boldest virtue that a person can exercise. Empathy is the foundation upon which morality is built. The virtue of empathy, the understanding that what hurts others hurts us, is the foundation of relationships.

Empathy is hard to fake. Empathy requires an inside journey. It requires an understanding of our own experiences so we can develop compassion and forgiveness for ourselves. Once you have empathy for yourself, you are then able to be empathic toward others. We simply cannot connect with others in an authentic and effective way when we cannot imagine what it is like to stand in their shoes.

People learn by how they are treated.

If they are treated with hostility, they will learn to be hostile.

If they are shamed, they learn to be ashamed.

If they are treated with sarcasm, they learn to hide.

If they are loved, they will learn how to love.

If they are encouraged, they will learn to encourage.

If they are treated with compassion, they learn to care about others. If they are treated with empathy, they learn to express their feelings.

This is in tribute to my father, a faithful and devoted friend. He believes that the value of one’s life can only be measured through its impact on others. He believes that life is to be lived through relationships and that reality is found not in the physical world, composed of wealth, accomplishments, and possessions, but rather in the minds of his fellow men.

He is not the wealthiest, strongest, or most powerful man, but he is a man who cares for everyone no matter what their station. He treats everyone with dignity and respect. I can see clearly now what he meant when he taught me that the quest for self- transcendence — moving beyond self-preoccupation and self-aggrandizement, lay the foundation for authentic and honorable communication. He helped me see who I am and not who I thought I was and who I am capable of becoming. I am still engaged in this process, still journeying for wholeness as a person. It was his skill that provided me with the skills I need to put one foot in front of the other.

He communicates with me in an unmistakable manner; honestly and forthright. He loves words and uses them often, and often incorrectly. I never correct him. Why? I would lose the joy of his language. He is interested in me and my life, a simple statement that says a lot.

To be deeply and empathetically understood is one of the most fulfilling and freeing experiences of humankind. The desire to understand deeply is truly a gift of love. The sheer joy of being understood is a cherished gift.

The Mask

Don’t be fooled by me Don’t be fooled by the face I wear

For I wear a mask

I wear a thousand masks

I try to give the impression that I’m secure, That all is sunny and unruffled with me

That confidence is my name

And coolness my game

That the water’s calm and I’m in command And that I need no one

Don’t believe me

Please

My surface may seem smooth But my surface is my mask

Beneath dwells the real me

In confusion, in fear, in aloneness

I'll idly chatter to you and

Tell you things, that’s really nothing When I go through this routine Don’t be fooled

I create a mask to hide behind

A nonchalant fagade to help me pretend To shield me from the glance that knows But a glance is my salvation and I know it

If the glance is followed by acceptance It’s what I seek

To assure me

I’m really worth something

Each time you’re kind, gentle and encouraging

Each time you try to understand because you really care My heart begins to grow wings, very small wings, very feeble wings But wings

Your sensitivity breathes life into me

I want you to know how important you are to me How you break down the walls behind which I tremble And remove my mask

thoughts. It starts with a conscious change to talk in a way that is helpful rather than harmful. We talk to ourselves a lot. Perhaps 40-50 thousands times a day our thoughts keep coming.

You're easily offended, stop now. Stop blaming luck. Stop blaming other people. Is there something wrong with your health? Don’t use the word but… every time you add the “but” you become the victim.

Stop what you’re currently doing. Don’t listen to reasons you can’t act. If you can’t stop long enough to get your life together, you obviously don’t want to change. That’s basic. Every time you think you can’t stop that’s just another excuse. You can, you can, and you will —- stop buying yourself off. Stop letting your internal condition dominate the quality of your life. Take back the wheel.

If you continue to be led by your emotions, you’ll only be left with regrets. Be straight with yourself. Identify the behaviors that are holding you back.

Are you willing? Life won’t stop for your pauses. It won't stop for your confusions or fears. It will continue right along without you. Over come the whys in your life.

Don’t let your mind control you any longer. Stop letting it hold you back with it’s excuses and distractions and worries. You are not your thoughts. You are your actions. And, your actions are the only things separating you from where you are and where you want to be.

This isn’t about seizing the day. This is about seizing the moment, the hour, the day. This is about seizing your life and

staking a claim for yourself as though your life depended on it.

Because, the reality is, it does.

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Don't grieve for someone very long. Remember them for who they were and what they meant to you.

As long as you are alive they will remain in your memory, providing love and and strength.

Don't remain sad. When you regain your cheer, be thankful and be courageous.

Yesterday

I finished a true crime book and did not like the outcome. Get me on a jury. Justice is a mockery sometimes. I may write the author and let him know that his book changed me as well as reminded me that deals are part of all cases.

Off and running at 6:45 AM – coffee was perking while I finished dishes. There was just enough time for a load of laundry before my shower, shave and daily pills. Back for a bit of breakfast and I gathered a few things and off to Mt. Vernon. I needed gas and ¥. ed the tank and did not stop again until I reached Mt. Vernon. On the way I made notes for:

Auction for family – I made a list of items

I wrote names of people I needed to contact

A few ideas on work, a few on items, etc….

At the bank I cashed a check for $500 and felt rich. I stopped at the old rail road depot, thinking it was a antique sale. It wasn’t and I went on to the golf course. A few were there and I visited a bit. I found out that it had rained a ton – 2 & 3/10s the night before making the course a mire. Two other players and myself played anyway and it was a pleasant time.

After the game there was time for a visit with a few friends, then I was off to the Elks club to find food. A hot dog and pretzels was free and I had a seat at the bar next to a lady that I have known for years. Her and her husband spend quite a bit of time together and she and I discussed several topics of interest. We talked particularly about the number of divorces and splits of couples that we know. Her take was that “the boys club” was more important that being an attentive spouse. I agree with her, sadly.

I was back on the road heading home in just a few minutes after deciding on not staying around for another round of visiting with new incoming friends. Driving homeward I thought of the “sameness” of the community and the seemingly routines of the lives of my friends. So?

I hoped to see more of my friends at the Moose club, but they had not yet arrived from their outing at the golf course. The club was set up – tables, chairs, etc. – for a large group and there was no food service for anyone and I slipped right back out of the club.

I stopped at Walmart to shop for food to eat. I decided on fruit and picked up oranges, apples, bananas, grapes, strawberries, and blackberries for a fruit salad. Also, two small pizzas – the bill was just over $13.00 and that would have been about the same as I would have spent at the moose for fish and chips.

Home before 7:30 and I fixed a wonderful fruit salad (I added pineapple and celery, plus a cup of orange juice) and the pizza’s after adding peppers, olives, bacon, and tomatoes.

I’m not looking for like, I’m looking for love and loving. Be different, have different interests, hobbies, friends, cherish solitude and privacy, love independence, but be willing to share, shed a tear, laugh uproariously, be gentle, direct, and straightforward. I’d like to think you love the rain and getting wet. You may like the beach even more than me or the haven of the woods. It’s healing. I rather think you will be charming in bed, never crude; that vanity has no place in your life, that you have lived long enough and hard enough to shuck it. But you still have stand-up tall pride and respect ranks as high as honesty and friendship is the key to relationships; that you have old-fashioned values, but are flexible. You are probably more tactful that I am and smart but not a smart a… That | might like to watch you cook and present the food and know your really charming, yet cool side. You are sensuous and intimate and your heart follows because you can’t seem to be just casual, never was and don’t want to be, that you subscribe to being monogamous and like one-to-one natural and fun conversations — same page conversations, speaking to, not at. You are likely to have original and a slightly dry humor and like vibes and tingles when meeting special people. You may be into introspection and deep thinking and have keen perception and intuition. But I wouldn’t be surprised that off-the-wall humor and raunchy behavior could describe you at times. You might just love antiques and believe you are a classic yourself, worn and chipped a bit, but smooth, warm, and very, very well maintained and beautiful. A masterpiece so-to-speak. Well, are you?

Loving means that the other person is significant to us. Loving means that we desire to understand deeply. To be deeply and empathetically understood is one of the most fulfilling and freeing experiences of humankind. The desire to understand deeply is truly a gift of love. The sheer joy of being deeply understood is a cherished gift in and of itself.

Don’t be fooled by me. Don’t be fooled by the face I wear. For I wear a mask,

I wear a thousand masks.

I give you the impression that I’m secure, That all is sunny and unruffled with me, Within as well as without, That confidence is my name and coolness my game, That the water’s calm and I’m in command, And that I need no one. But don’t believe me. Please.

My surface may seem smooth, but my surface is my mask, Beneath dwells the real me in confusion, in fear, in aloneness. But I hide this.

I create a mask to hide behind,

A nonchalant, sophisticated facade, to help me pretend,

To shield me from the glance that knows.

But such a glance is precisely my salvation. My only salvation. And I know it.

If the glance is followed by acceptance, if it’s followed by love.

It’s the only thing that can liberate me, from myself.

It’s the only thing that will assure me of what I can’t assure myself, That I’m really worth something.

I idly chatter to you in the suave tones of surface talk.

I tell you everything, that’s really nothing,

When I go through my routine don’t be fooled by what I’m saying. Please listen carefully and try to hear what I’m not saying.

I dislike hiding. Honestly. i . + fe / pe: caer box

© Gartner Studios

There is everywhere cold toleration for the idea of national sovereignty, very little hope for the future of the nation, and scarcely any pride in the strength and glory to the United States of America. Sovereign states were held in higher esteem than was the union. Slavery mentality was continued and approved in these rural regions. .

T have heard continually of the love of our family and much talk of the effect that we lived in the midst of pleasant surroundings, and had no desire to change our situation of a hardscrabble life, following faithfully our patriarch or revered older siblings with no disposition to be directly antagonistic

As we get old our views and culture needs to keep pace with enlightenment and our professed love of one another becomes the truth.

We long to live passionate lives, to be swept away. Passion means the abandonment of reason in the pursuit of pleasure. Passion is wild, chaotic, unpredictable and excessive.

What we don’t realize is that passion is the muse of authenticity. Passion is also subtle, quiet, and committed. It is profound and it is part of real life. Everyday offers us an opportunity to live passionate lives rather than passive ones, if we stop denying ourselves pleasure. We will revel in its energy if we will learn to say “yes.”

Ask, ask, ask, and it shall be given to you. This does not come easily. It doesn’t. Nevertheless, by asking for what you want — laying it on the line — can bring us what we want, need, desire, and yearn for. We don’t ask because we're afraid somebody will say “no.” Who? It doesn’t matter. Wishful thinking doesn’t magically manifest what we want, so in the future chose to ask. I ask for things that do not come and my voice may become hoarse from asking, but I also know that if I don’t ask, I haven’t a prayer. I will ask for a miracle. Ask to be answered. Ask politely. Ask with passion. Ask with a grateful heart and you will be heard. Just ask.

The answers to questions will come, but it is up to me to know which ones are worth asking. I will live my questions and will be open to the changes they will bring.

You must first be who you really are, then, do what you need to do, in order to have what you want.

I wanted so much — money, success, recognition, and genuine creative expression — but had absolutely no clue as to what I truly needed. I was a workaholic, careaholic, and perfectionist. Was I ever kind to myself? I had to be ruthlessly honest both inwardly and outwardly. During this time of introspection I was actually searching for wholeness and harmony. I needed an authentic life. I try to do than now. I can recognize that my life is not one of less or that I do without, it is of abundance. I have an abundance of friends, wonderful family of siblings, I am warm, I am full, I have a good mind, health, and there is joy in me from my abundance. How could I expect more from the Universe when I didn’t appreciate what I already had? Our wishes for the future, our hopes, our dreams, our aspirations are our truest treasures. Reading books change lives. So does writing them.

Everyone, I’m sure, has listened to radio programs that offer advice on a myriad of subjects from dog grooming, bunion control, how to make a garden, cook, raise kids, and being a better, stronger, healthier, wealthier, and happy person. Advice is cheap

T have decided to join the ranks of advice givers. For sure, I’ve heard enough of it over the years to be at least an apprentice advice guy. My subject matter is humans and maladies that they deal with on an every day basis. The questions I receive aren’t exactly classic in that they deal with the trivia of life, the little-things, you-know, what we deal with on an every day basis.

Dear John:

What's the difference between extra-virgin olive oil and the regular kind?

Cindy

East Alton

Dear Cindy:

I think the biggest difference is that extra-virgin

olive oil has an extra word, or maybe, when they

made regular olive oil they had some left over olive oil. Why are you asking me just ‘cause I work on an olive farm?

Dear John:

I’m awesome. Sometimes I can’t even deal with how

awesome I am. The bigger problem is that I’m so

awesome that other people don’t want to be around

me because they are jealous of my awesomeness.

What's the most awesome way to approach my awesome problem? Dick — you know who I am

Dear Dick:

Who are you?

Do old men with white hair really say “awesome”? There is nothing awesome about getting old and white. Thanks a lot, you made me feel sad.

John

Dear John:

I do all of my reading on the toilet. I spend more time

on the pot than some might consider normal. As a result

of my excessive bathroom visits I’ve developed anal fissures. Do you think this is normal?

Mickey Bethalto

Dear Mickey: You are not normal, and I didn’t know you could read. Further, I don’t appreciate your planting horrid images in my mind. John

I stress more easily and have anxiety that fall short of panic attacks. I have had two panic attacks (90’s) and associated with marriage/job problems.

Thad counseling, volunteer, and only three sessions, in 2002.

I have an enlarged prostate gland — right side. I thought it might be stress/anxiety and age caused. Lhave fear of this.

I have always been super active (“A” type) and energetic. I keep multiple balls in the area. I may be on the obsessive side. Detail minded. Accuracy, truth, is important.

I do not smoke, last smoked in1972 and am a very moderate drinker — beer, perhaps 4 in a week, none in 4 weeks.

I cook, do housework, laundry, ironing, and keep a neat place.

Recently I have withdrawn a bit more and do not get engaged in social activities as much. I read, write I am a good golfer, and sports enthusiasts.

Family: My Mom died at 76 (complications of an injury, but her health had faded. Dad died at 86 (one year after Mom) Old Age — heartbreak. A sister 59 died in 1998 — colon cancer A brother, 67, died in 2010 — cause undetermined. Stroke. Ihave three brothers (76, 78, 80, and a sister 60) It is no mystery that I am a puzzle, but I will be as transparent with anyone as I can.

Thanks.

John Casey

Mr. Cruz's opposition to legislation to gun-control violence, which he has opposed for years. Indeed, Mr. Cruz is slated to speak at the National Rifle Association Annual Meeting in Houston, where he lives, later this week. Governor Greg Abbott and Senator John Cornyn, both Republicans, are also slated to speak. Trump is coming.

In fact, Mr. Cruz defended gun rights following the mass shooting in his state. Speaking to the BBC, he said, 'Inevitably when there is a murder of this kind you see politicians try to politicize it. You see Democrats and a lot of other folks in the media whose immediate solution is to try to restrict the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens.' 'That doesn't work. It's not effective. It doesn't prevent crime.'

Kurt Bardella, who advises the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, tweeted: 'Ted Cruz received $300K from the pro-gun crowd. So take your prayers and shove them up your ass. Your acceptance of this blood money tells us how much your prayers are worth.'

The NRA is one of the biggest contributors to the election of its chosen political party. They have hung on to the 2nd Amendment. They tell Congress how [to vote]. They have more lobbyists – well paid – and money & favors to distribute.

Either the 2nd Amendment should be changed or ended.

The 2nd (a Jefferson-authored amendment) was made to guard against or fight far-regal [tyrannical] options with [a] white man army. Arms were long rifles, single shot guns. Citizens, farmers, herders, etc. did not own many guns. They were not distributed on the basis of politics.

The Civil War – 1861-1865 – weapons of war were still a national asset.

Texas – the last state / territory to surrender to the North – is the NRA's most prolific state. Reduce the NRA's power.

At the Texas shooting, a Democratic candidate for mayor? (St. office?) and the Chief of Police shouted out that he was out of order a few times and said 'You're a sick son of a bitch' to [him], saying 'get him outta here.' – That's Texas stand. If you don't agree with them you are a Scourge – a S.S. of A.B. [son of a bitch].

The word AWESOME is usED BY TWO OF MY FRIENDS OFTEN. IN FACT, EVERy POST SEEMS TO INCLUDE AWESOME.

| have chided them without a direct “Why do you use awesome on almost every post?” | can’t guess.

There seems to be a renewed spirit to posting tiny homes, houses, cabins, land water and land. The reply is typically, “I want to live there, I’d take living there over anyplace in the world.”

What’s puzzling to me is that many of the cabins, etc appear fake. They don’t look real. There is no person, no car, truck, tractor, cat, dog, horse, etc. there are wood piles, lights in the windows are always the same color and a bridge over water, a mountain background, etc.

Comments are positive.

Today, I'll not make a comment, but count the number of references to a cabin in the woods, near a lake, a mountain, stacked wood, closely clipped grass, trimmed bushes and no animals, or muddy road, or boots on the porch. I'll think AWESOME.

The word AWESOME IS USED BY TWO OF MY FRIENDS OFTEN. IN FACT, EVERy POST SEEMS TO INCLUDE AWESOME. I have chided them without a direct “Why do you use awesome on almost every post?” I can’t guess. There seems to be a renewed spirit to posting tiny homes, houses, cabins, land water and land. The reply is typically, “I want to live there, I’d take living there over anyplace in the world.” What’s puzzling to me is that many of the cabins, etc appear fake. They don’t look real. There is no person, no car, truck, tractor, cat, dog, horse, etc. there are wood piles, lights in the windows are always the same color and a bridge over water, a mountain background, etc. Comments are positive. Today, I’ll not make a comment, but count the number of references to a cabin in the woods, near a lake, a mountain, stacked wood, closely clipped grass, trimmed bushes and no animals, or muddy road, or boots on the porch. I’ll think AWESOME.

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Trump would [betray?] Pence, Pelosi, Comey, Biden, Flynn, Fauci, Obama, Schiff, Mary Trump – and me.

Trump would kiss Putin's ass, Stormie's, Kavanaugh's, Nicholas', Kessler's, Lindsey's, Barr's, his caddie's, and the Scarecrow's – who doesn't have a heart.

Shan, the Texas shooting is the latest example of the self-interested Democratic Jumpers (?). They will stall any potential change.

The shooter was not likely to be either a Republican or Democrat. He was 18 & evil. (and shrinking)

The Southern Baptists – 12-14 million of them, and many in Johnson County – TH [Tunnel Hill], Vienna, Alton, Mt. V., Harrisburg – are deplorable and shallow. I asked one, 'Who wrote the Bible?' '… it was told to the prophets, who wrote it …' written 350 years after Jesus died. [signed]

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Everything with which human beings interact has a definite impact upon their well being. There is interdependence between or beliefs, behaviors, expectations, health, personal relationships, and the environment. Change any one of these elements and it could have a powerful effect on each of the others.

What will achieving a particular outcome do for you? What will be the outcomes of that outcome? What's the worst that could happen if you achieve your outcome? Can you think of any reason why achieving the outcome would not be in your best interests?

By answering these questions you will identify the potential positive and negative effects of achieving an outcome before you pursue it. By doing this you will either become more strongly motivated to achieve a desired outcome or realize that its achievement may not be worth the effort. In both cases you'll save time and energy and avoid potential disappointment and disruption in your life.

I really want you to think deeply about what you learn about yourself – your moods, the way you think the things you value, and the way you feel about life. Then truly honor what you've discovered about your inner self. When you know and honor yourself, you can put all your attention on the feelin’ o' yer inner

body.

Te read recent e-mails with well-meaning messages of friends and relatives of Co-Vid$ patients. The message is about miracles of prayer as saving patients lives. Most e-mails include a list of people who may or may not have prayed.

Thank the front liners who do not rely on miracles or prayers to treat the sick. Thank the nurses, technicians, doctors, counselors, administrators, cleaners, schedulers, lab experts, machine operators, scientists, inventors, greeters, – everyone.

They provide care, skill, knowledge, experience and friendships. They are humble, they are human. They cheer, they cry and keep going. I salute them. They give hope. We need hope.

They answer questions truthfully. I wont forget their words, laughter and their stories of family, friends, and themselves. Some have stories that might break your heart.

Its remarkable what they do to help us and never want or expect more than a sincere thank you. They provide hope and give you courage.

Thank you

ol 20 28 A wit’s tongue is as sharp as a donkey’s stick. |am sure a wit would shirk if he was deprived of an audience. A humorous man is better company because he confronts both him and you.

Humor is primarily takes no effort because it is natural, not forced. A witty man may draw laughs and delights in his own perceived witticisms when his wit is directed on another man’s hat or shoes, or age, and maybe his hair or speech. He wants the audience to agree.

Real humor requires no primary effort to be funny. A

witty player might draw laughs but does not catch the heart as does the humorous man. Wit fades; humor lasts.

Wid Fhe

The choice of what the words will be needs no preparation. The faster the writing can be done, the better the result will be. "The work which has been done the quickest has been done the best." Quickness is a virtue in writing. The best writing comes from "hot pressure in telling the story." Writing never assists writing; all the words come "hot on the paper from their causes." Words so written are correct. They should never be changed. Grammar is an act of courtesy, not an aspect of meaning. Readers insist that the writer to obey certain‘rilles, but the words are permanent and permanently true. Until writing becomes public, it also remains almost absolutely private. Writing must come from the writer as aneic comes from the rapid touch of the great performer's fingers and as words come from the orator.

In this world things are beautiful only because they are not quite seen, or not perfectly understood. Nature and art are at their grandest when one cannot quite make them out. The greatest charm of anything or anyone is the wild feeling that there is more beyond the image of them.

After a death ones wonders if they can love again. But that is not the test. One can teach themselves to be in love. It is necessary for some people to be in love all the time – that it is necessary for happiness to devote oneself to another. Their characters are never so wrong, than when they teach themselves something – like teaching themselves the business of falling in love rather than feeling it.

Character is neither imitated from outside nor deduced from prior reasoning. "When the truth is arrived at, it is found to have always been there, waiting for words. "Sometimes this truth operates without conscious prologue, pushing itself partially into consciousness and dictating behavior without reference to logic. Unconscious thinking is truth. It is the truth of the thinker's own feelings and desires; it is a statement of character. Character is revealed by behavior.

I have almost abandoned the effort to think, trusting myself, to work the matter out when the pen is in my hand or my fingers are on the keys. Free writing, depends upon this premise. Freedom of expression and not doing something until it is time to do it frees oneself from bondage and allows feelings to guide me.

Feeling speaks, but what it says is not language. The mind has nothing in common with the ability to speak. You can not whisper even to your own heart, but within your own heart there is feeling. The truth of feeling is resistant to analysis or reason. Character speaks the truth without speaking. Each of us understands that there is no need of words; indeed, it often comes about when language is forbidden, or when what is said directly contradicts what is understood. Acts and looks, which are plainer than words are insights to the truth of ourselves. One gentleman recognizes another; no interpretation is necessary.

Feelings are the only truth, and feelings do not emit signs of themselves that would have to be interpreted, allowing the possibility of error. Feelings are identical with the statement of them, and statements of feeling are never made in any kind of interpretable language. Signs can be counterfeited, but feelings cannot. Feelings speak, but is nonspeech; they are read, but it is nonreading. This is the basis of human intercourse on all levels.

When I have once brought myself to tell a woman that I love her, there is no retreat. My love is a thing to give, but when given I cannot take it back. If I have declared my love to an unworthy woman does not change the structure of love or the truth of my statement; they merely guarantee that that I am capable of loving and not a mistake of loving someone. Feeling comes first, but so long as it is blocked or delayed by thinking, it may remain only an unconscious mumble; but once it takes hold of language – once the internal speaker and listener merge into a statement that can be given to the world- feeling speaks with absolute authority, regardless of thought and even of fact. Truth of feeling is met by understanding. Love is true whether or not it has an object; the statement of love is true because it is its own reference.

Once I told you that I loved you.

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Oxymoron’s

Why is the third hand on a watch called the second hand?

Why does “slow down” and “slow up” mean the same thing?

Why does “fat chance” and “slim chance” mean the same thing? Why do “tug” boats push barges?

Why do we sing “Take me out to the ball game” when we

are already there?

Why are “wise man” and “wise guy” opposites?

Doesn't “expecting the unexpected” make the

unexpected expected?

Why isn’t “phonics” spelled the way it sounds?

If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?

Why is bra singular and panties plural?

Why do you press harder on the remote when you know

the batteries are dead?

Why do we say something is out of whack? What is a whack? How come abbreviated is such a long word?

Why do they call it a TV set when you only have one?

Why doesn’t glue stick to the inside of the bottle?

If the entire world is a stage, where is the audience sitting? Christmas is weird. What other time do you sit in front

of a dead tree and eat candy out of your socks?

If you are cross-eyed and have dyslexia, can you read all right? Why is it called “after dark” when it really is “after light”?

Why do we put suits in garment bags and garments in a suitcase? Why do we wash bath towels? Aren’t we clean when we use them? Why are they called “stands” when they are made for sitting?

Why do “overlook” and “oversee” mean opposite things?

If work is so terrific, why do they have to pay you to do it?

Is it good if a vacuum really sucks?

If a word were misspelled in the dictionary, how would we ever know?

As | painted | tried to cover a few of the stress fractures in each room. /2/2022) | counted stress fractures on walls and ceilings..

These are estimates

living room LS dinning room 30 Master bedroom 42 kitchen 3 bath 0 den Lf anti room 6 hall 7

guest room walls 1 Guest room ceiling 7 It was patched.

Fractures are mostly in the rooms i did not paint. A second coat, or third, covered the Stress fractures. In an old house stress factors are common. There is no indication of any major concern.

As I painted I tried to cover a few of the stress fractures in each room. /2/2022) I counted stress fractures on walls and ceilings.. These are estimates living room 15 dinning room 30 Master bedroom 42 kitchen 3 bath 0 den 17 anti room 6 hall 7 guest room walls 1 Guest room ceiling 7 It was patched. Fractures are mostly in the rooms i did not paint. A second coat, or third, covered the Stress fractures. In an old house stress factors are common. There is no indication of any major concern.

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Her hugs are free

to friends like you and me.

They are delightful fun accompanied by the familiar -"Hon."

"Come here," she becons "You need a hug," – I recon.

Dark tan- pale eyes, bootie shaker Sun soaker, beer drinker – par breaker.

Sometimes loud, always proud. Deep thinker – fun maker.

Becky O. and Debbie Mezo are best friends of Patsy Squeezo.

So too are Tony, Cooter, Stork and Paul. In fact, we know that she loves us all.

She has a heart so fine, better than the best metal from a mine.

How sweet and good you are PATSY BULLARD, to me, you’re a star.

John Casey 8-6-96

How am I going to [no apology] do things that will get me to Texas without offending Everyone?

Mike: are You Comfortable Unlocking the door so I Can get items I want & Need? No! Sweaters / Jackets, Small items?

Requires Stairs? Yes! Unsurmountable? No. (A) 1) I would Like Strips of Velcro 2) up to 3 Sweaters or Pants 3) Scissors — hair & 4) Corns 5) popcorn (B) How do I pay for the first Leg of my trip? [margin: "N/A try To"] (Please ticket?) (one way) (Stay a ___?) (C) [crossed: my] Dentures in The Picture? (D) who Can I confide in? ? ? ? ?

After the 19th of July — All Doctors — Looking for [Dentures].

Ask Jacob to pick up fruit (Ringhausen's) on his way back from his Visit with his Wife.

* Fill Your Need — No One Can please everyone.

Let's Take Turns. You Start. [margin: "Select Someone"]

| told my son about you informing me that you wouldn't be coming to my place again because people would talk.

| told him about liking you because you seemed balanced and was comfortable to be around. That you helped me make changes to my apartment.

He replied quickly. “STOP!”. you don’t need drama. ‘End your relationship with her. | like what you’ve done lately. You will be fine.

“| care about your happiness. Avoid toxic people. Don’t give away your things. Follow what your doctor says. If you want to come and visit, come on. We love you fiercely.”

| believe staying away from negative people has improved my life. Humans place specific parameters on you according to age. Like | don’t want a relationship with terms and conditions.. Keeping scores of favors, or gifts.

| want someone who adores me and someone | adore as well. | want someone who adds to my life. | value a relationship where you talk things over and reach for a high degree of kindness.

On most mornings I see an older woman walking down the street where I live. She walks with a very purposeful stride. Rain or shine when she walks past I wonder where she is going. Is she working to make ends meet — Is she a widow and has to work? Maybe she is a grandmother on her way to care for her grandkids.

This woman reminds me of my mother. I look back to those days and thank the Lord for my strong and purposeful mother. She made me a strong person with a healthy respect for women. Watching my five foot dynamo mother handle things inspired me.

The woman who walks by my house makes me wonder. I imagine that she has a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. She is a symbol to me. A reminder that we must go on and do the things that needs to be done no matter how hard the task.

Perseverance

On most mornings I see an older woman walking down the street where I live. She walks with a very purposeful stride. Rain or shine when she walks past I wonder where she is going. Is she working to make ends meet — like me? Is she a widow and has to work? Maybe she is a grand- mother on her way to care for her grandkids.

This woman reminds me of my mother. I look back on those days and thank the Lord for my strong and purposeful mother. She made me a strong person with a healthy respect for women. Watching my five foot dynamo mother handle things inspired me.

The woman who walks by my house makes me wonder. | imagine that she has a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. She is a symbol to me. A reminder that we must go on and do the things that needs to be done no matter how hard the task.

Non-Existent

I watched Judge Judy and have developed a survival mechanism I call “Personal Peripheral Vision”

What that means is that I can set my attention on the work at hand and still be able to see what’s going on around me. Like the sideways glances, the roll of the eyes, the smirks of disdain, the sulking pouts, the gestures of disgust. Example- (Me) Question: “I have an idea for you, would you like to hear it?” (You) – Answer: “NO!” Followed by-(You): “Did you hear me?” and “What did I just say?”

Then there’s the endless variations of body language that reveal impatience, rejection, or boredom. I see and hear it all, and I don’t comment. I just make note of it. Occasionally I will respond in a roundabout fashion that may make you think I’m dumb, oblivious, unfazed, hard of hearing or uncaring. | am not. I’m simply watching and listening.

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Philosophy

In the 60’s developing a meaningful philosophy of life was an essential life goal. Over time that philosophy declined, being well off financially, and attaining prestigious jobs and positions rose in importance.

People are constantly gauging where they stand relative to others in competition for distinction. The intense push for super achievement deprives people of one of the safety valves of life – the deep social connectedness of friendship. The durability, sustainability and strength of relationships are constantly threatened by sought after goals.

This relentless pursuit of status can powerfully thwart the well-being of people. Prolonged feelings of stress can affect psychological well-being and physical health. At a societal level, people who are unhappy with a fragile sense of self, focus more on gaining more for them than on improving the lot.

Striving harder to be at the top — to be heard and all knowing above others — puts such people at risk for limited compassion and kindness. They can have low capacity for tolerance and tenderness in relationships and high capacity for chauvinism and narcissism.

We apply bandages to cuts and scrapes, take pills to relieve pain and put splints and casts to help bones mend. We treat threats to out physical well-being as soon as they occur. Still, we sustain emotional injuries in life just as often, but we are less proactive about protecting our mental well-being.

Fail successfully: Don’t become demoralized and lose motivation. Consider how you can do things that are in your control and how you might improve these factors.

Find meaning in experiences and derive purpose from them will allow you to develop appreciation for your life and the people in it.

Stop Brooding: We rarely gain true insights into events. Distract yourself with something that requires concentration and focus.

Revive self-worth: affirm the aspects of yourself you value, qualities you possess that you find meaningful – loyalty, compassion, and creativity.

Identify and challenge self-defeating behaviors. Make a list of people whose company you’ve enjoyed and reach out to a few each day.

Absolve yourself: sometimes the harmed do not forgive us. An effective apology requires a critical ingredient -empathy. Authentic empathy is most often met with authentic forgiveness.

Don’t waste time in the past. You will never be satisfied with someone who has no investment in a relationship with you. Relationships work best when there are mutual displays of interest. Move on. Give attention to your needs — you must.

get started.

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Agseg uyor puv VOINHNV JO SHLVLS dGaLINOA S4ULIO SJUSPISold wooly SOSPSSO/|

“..mever quit, never

Thomas Jefferson : ie Jeffe quit, never quit”.

Right “ My failures have “Unless you're Shirley McClaine,You been errors of judge- only get one shot at this life”. ment, not of intent : George H.W. Bush # ee

“Speak softly and carry a big stick (and money)”. Teddy Rosevelt #

“Ask not what your teammates can do for you; ask what you can do for your teammates”.

John F.Kennedy

“Tf you want to make

enemies, try to change

something”. Woodrow Wilson

“You can fool all of the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time,but it gets harder to do when you get older”. Abe Lincoln #16

“I have never saw a pessimistic golfer win a match”. Dwight Eisenhower #

“You ain’t learnin’ nothin’ when you’re talkin’’. Lyndon Johnson #

moo noubarsrltasuos, Faswoproyounnyol- <q

worseos0 Aue Joy syuapisalg WO sa}0nd

“Trust, but verify” Ronald Regan

“Above all, tell the truth”. Grover Alexander #

“T have never been hurt by anything I didn’t say’. Calvin Cooledge #

What people think of me is none of my business. Best Regards,

John Casey

[Top:] "Candle in the wind / Elton John"

"I Lived in Mt Vernon — with Vicki. The news that Just Came in Early one morning. Vicki Saw me Crying and made a remark — 'Don't Mourn for her, Mourn for Someone you Knew.'"

psst! wanna hear a secret? She quickly got rid of the things he left when they split, less they remind her of the awful relationship they had for more than a decade. She didn’t consider replacing any of the junk. That pleased her. Now she would have time for personal activities and going where she wanted to go, when she wanted to go. She liked the quiet time and her own schedule or no schedule at all. The unopened mail addressed to him was marked “No one with that name lives here, RETURN.” She was determined not to buy or borrow any books about self- help or contact anyone, including her close friends, who were likely seeking a story than talk about nonsense or the weather. She would be 52 on her next birthday, a few months away. Her two-year old car was in great shape, had good tires and was debt free. It had a bit of class and she loved driving it. She notified the post office to hold her mail for two weeks, and a note to the carrier not to leave flyers or advertising at her mail box. She packed lightly; clothes, jackets, shoes, and personal accruements. They fit nicely in her new non-carry on wheeled bag. She put a small purse into a larger purse that would be her carry-on should she need it. She had planned a trip for some time and had not disclosed it to anyone. OFF SHE TOOK. TO BE CONTINUED

Psst! Wanna Hear a Secret?

“If Ihad eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six sharpening my axe.” Abraham Lincoln

“The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable.” James Garfield

“Good ballplayers make good citizens.” Chester A. Arthur “Speak softy and carry a big stick.” | Theodore Roosevelt

“There has never been a man in our history who led a life of ease whose name is worth remembering.” TT. Roosevelt

“,..it is better to be alone than in bad company.” George Washington

“To err is natural; to rectify error is glory. ” George Washington

“Our minds are like old horses; you must exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order.” John Adams

“Grief drives men to serious reflection, sharpens understanding and softens the heart. John Adams

“Delay is preferable to error.” Thomas Jefferson “I like dreams of the future better than the history of the past.” Thomas Jefferson

“In matters of style swim with the current; in matters of principal, stand like a rock.” Thomas Jefferson

“One man with courage is a majority.”

Thomas Jefferson

“The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do.” Thomas Jefferson

“Screw luck” a.

“Don’t tell me my odds” Hans Solo

“I not only use all the brains I have but all that I can borrow.” Woodrow Wilson “We grow great by dreams.” W. Wilson

“I have never been hurt by anything I didn’t say.” Calvin Coolidge

“Blessed are the young, for they will inherit the national debt.” Herbert Hoover

“When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” Ronald Regan

“Men make history, and not the other way around.” Harry Truman

“A pessimistic general never won a battle.” Dwight Eisenhower

“If a problem can not be solved, enlarge it.” Dwight Eisenhower

“You know nothing for sure…except the fact that you know nothing for sure.” John Kennedy

“I’d rather give my life than be afraid to give it.” Lyndon Johnson “you ain’t learnin’ nothin’ when you’re talkin’” Lyndon Johnson

“The truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted.” James Madison

“A little flattery will support a man through great fatigue.” James Madison

“It is easier to do a job right that to explain why you didn’t.” Martin Van Buren

“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.” Abraham Lincoln

“Die when I may, I wanted it said of me that I plucked a weed and I planted a flower wherever I thought a flower would grow.” Abraham Lincoln