So much happening! My thoughts everywhere. Random thoughts. I share them with you with no particular order. Merely as they popped up in my mind and then my notes. 

The Doncom doctrine. Trump’s substitute for the Monroe Doctrine. Will represent his take over of Venezuela and in the near future the attempted takeover of other nations. The American people will not stand for it!

Trump is a sinking ship. He is taking on water every day. He cannot remain afloat for a full 4 years. One way or another, he will sink.

The Oxford Dictionary has announced its new word for 2025: Rage Bait. Actually two words. Means the supposed effect of low quality control on the brain. Confusing. First time I heard of it was yesterday. Who speaks or writes it?

Scientists finally know what is actually happening when your mind goes blank. Scientists call the phenomenon “mind blanking.” A new study suggests a distinct mental state, separate from daydreaming or distraction. 

There is a cure for Alzheimer’s disease in humans in the making. The first step has been reached. Scientists have reversed the disease in mice.

Adult cremation is not new. Archeologists have identified the earliest adult cremations. Go back 9,500 years to Malawi in Africa. It is the oldest in situ adult pyre in the world. A unique approach. The head was removed before the body was burned.

Trump failed to timely appear for his recent 11 a.m. news broadcast. The one American people were interested in hearing. Concerned attacking Venezuela and capturing Maduro and his wife. Trump was 39 minutes late. Reflected a disrespect for Americans.

The broadcast took place in the Mar-a-Lago Tea room. A first time there for me.

Trump claims Venezuela “stole our oil.” I didn’t know. How? When?

He also said, “We couldn’t let them get away with it.”

If they stole it, why did he wait so long to recover it? Also, why didn’t he do something earlier? Why didn’t other Presidents do something to get the “American oil back?”

The truth be known, Trump is acting like a thief. The oil belongs to Venezuela and not the U.S.

Interesting. On January 1, 2026, copyrights for comic books, movies, musical compositions, and creative works from 1930, as well as readings from 1925, expired. We can now use things like Betty Boop, Nancy Drew, and the Maltese Falcon for free.

Senior sex lives after 65. Forty percent are active. Most satisfied. Men more interested. Women may be satisfied. For men, using it or losing it appears to be true.

A confusing problem. Seizing Maduro was quick. On the other hand, fixing Venezuela’s oil production will take years.

Rubio disappoints me. He’s a pretty boy with an evil mind. He said a couple of days ago that a military “quarantine” on some oil exports will remain in place to continue placing pressure on Venezuela’s leaders. This was before Maduro’s overthrow. 

He is coming off as one of Hitler’s aides.

We do not need Greenland! We have done well with the way things are for years. Donald is playing Adolph once more. What’s wrong with Trump?

He is truly sounding more like a Hitler type with each passing day.

Cuba may be next for Trump. An easy takeover. He is crazy! Look for war. I fear more may be coming. Hope I am wrong. The American people do not want wars. Neither does most of the world. In a short time, Trump has failed the U.S. and rest of the world.

Foreign nations and the Pope also fear Trump inspired wars around the corner. For example, Trump said Greenland will belong to the U.S. in 2 months. Smells of a war!

Donald may not realize it. However, he is more and more being a hothead. Why? Does not make sense. Threats, pressure and threats of annexation not part of the free world. Get off this kick, Donald!

Canada even in Trump’s sight. He’s nuts!

Even the Catholic Church is in turmoil. A group of 20 Cardinals sought to diminish Pope Leo’s power. They failed. Leo survived the onslaught. Spoke as God’s man on Earth. He spoke and acted as if God was so acting. An interesting story. Read it in detail. You will enjoy and find parts hard to believe.

The Papacy is a nation and government. It has had problems for several years now. Problems similar to lay nations. Men will be men.

A UN Security Council yesterday morning condemned Trump’s actions re Venezuela. Trump’s adminstration responded bullshit in effect. Makes me uncomfortable. U.S. respect for other nations falling apart. It is Trump against the rest of the world. As was Hitler.

The House has returned for January business. Guess what? Only 12 days of formal work scheduled. Does not make sense. One thing we need is a new budget by the end of January. The House is Republican controlled. When are they going to get off their asses and take back their power from Trump?

How does Trump invading Venezuela and capturing Maduro make American lives better? It does not. It may enrich Trump, Rubio and their friends in the final analysis, however.

A check on Trump is required. Constitutional ones sufficient. Republican Congress controls. They must function as the Constitution  intended. Not as a group of persons scared silly of Trump. Grown men at that.

Rubio has achieved the prominence he sought. Had to sell his soul for it, however. A pretty face with a sick mind.

How will the U.S. Senate vote if the issue of American troops on the ground arises to protect American oil interests in Venezuela?

Trump’s people fear Mark Kelly. The are seeking to defrock him of past glories earned. His Navy benefits seeking to be stripped amongst other things.

As I have been saying for some time. He would make  great President. Trump and his allies know it and are seeking to soil and taint the man improperly beginning now. 

Watch the battle as waged. Kelly a stand up guy. He will win no matter what lies and bullshit Trump, Hegseth and other Republicans throw at him.

I had two nurse visits yesterday. Dr. Blass this afternoon for my cancer wound. Do not like it. Always hurts!

Enjoy your day!

Trump’s world is crashing around him. Judicially and economically. Piece by piece. 

Now this Venezuela thing. After years of crying fentanyl, his reason for taking down Maduro appears to be oil. 

Joke of jokes. Major oil companies will bear the expense. A route he generally takes. Someone else will bear the brunt economically. In the end, it is the American taxpayer.

Rubio concerns me in this scenario also. A good looking face does not necessarily reflect a proper mind.

Another Kennedy Center problem. One which will also boomerang on Trump.

Again I mention Mark Kelly for your consideration for the Presidency in 2028. We need a return to a “good person” for the office. Kelly’s credentials are noteworthy and appear without blemish. A U.S. Senator, former astronaut and 25 year Navy veteran.

Enjoy your Sunday!

Caracas attacked. Successfully Trump says. Maduro captured and flown out of his country. Perhaps his wife also.

Not certain whether Congress contacted and advised by Trump first.

Trump appears happy at the moment. A brilliant victory from his perspective. He will make an announcement to the Nation at 11 this morning with details.

The attack was early this morning. Other locations in Venezuela were attacked also. 

The attack pure stupidity from my viewpoint. For months we have been advised Trump’s claim of drugs coming out of Venezuela to the U.S. not true. No proof of the same.

As Trump is dying economically, it appears he is attempting to gain success and notoriety in another fashion. By actually initiating a war on another country’s grounds. He is a warmonger. Moving slower than Hitler did, but moving.

Attorney General Bondi said Maduro would receive “American justice on American soil in American courts.” She referenced an indictment in the Southern District of New York. Proper place to try Maduro?

I have a feeling Trump will come out of the attack as well as he has with his actions at the Kennedy Center.

Appears Trump is prepared to wage war against two Nations simultaneously. He is threatening to utilize American troops in Iran. His purpose to “protect Christians.”

Trump is crazy. He was not elected to wage wars. It was to help the poor, lower food prices, lower rental prices, and things of that nature. He spoke one way during the campaign and has acted in another since elected.

Key West weather warming up a bit. Not by much, however. High today will be 73. The night was in the mid 60s. Hopefully our day time temperatures will soon return to the 80s with the evenings in the 70s.

A Keys’ great is celebrating his birthday today. Howard Livingston. Happy birthday, Howard!

In his senior years, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has become a prolific writer. He calls them as he sees them. Right on!

Three recent observations.

First, an unasked for happening. The U.S. hit 2,000 measles cases for the first time in 2025. The first time in years. The U.S. hit the 2,000 number last years ago.

Another. Older adults are still sexually active. Not surprising. Surprise is sexually transmitted infection rates are on the rise.

Finally, the much older are enjoying sex. Even at 90, I am. 

The problem diseases. Chlamydia has tripled in the 65 and older. Gonorrhea has increased six fold, syphilis tenfold.

The “why” clear. Only 3 percent of adults aged 60 plus use condoms. Keep in mind, more older persons are divorced, singles adopt a new life style. A new type dating. Safety forgotten. And most importantly, the elderly are enjoying sex at a time they feared they would not. They “go for it!”

Venereal disease in one’s golden years can make those years less golden.

So much for today. 

I am anxious for 11 a.m. to arrive. Can’t wait to hear Trump lie and misrepresent.

Please continue to keep in mind Mark Kelley for President in 2028. He would not make the mistakes and create the problems Trump does.

Enjoy your day!

Key West is famous for many things. One are the “drops” New Year’s Eve. Certain restaurants and bars drop something or some person from high at midnight. It is Key West’s Times Square ball drop.

There are several. Three have gained prominence. 

One is the Bourbon Street Pub Shoe Drop. A drag queen dropped from the second floor of the hotel portion.

Another is Sloppy Joe’s. A dropping Conch Shell.

The third is Schooner’s Wharf. A pirate wench dropped down a boat mast.

All attract crowds. Huge crowds. Each a fun event.

Staying with Key West for a moment, a piece of history. Not involving a dropping whatever. Rather, girls’ basketball.

It was on this day in 1928 that it was announced the first girls’ varsity basketball team was being organized at the Key West High School.

Some Trump. Too much Trump. Problem he was all over the place yesterday and into today.

Trump continuing to screwing around with Iran. Trump appears to enjoy the blood of war, as long as not his nor that of a member of his family. 

Trump claims Iran killing “peaceful protestors.” Trump says if it continues, “the U.S. will come to their rescue.”

I have never made a New Year’s prediction. Feel compelled to do so today. It is that Donald Trump will not be President next year at this time. His “record” is coming apart.  His problems manifesting themselves. He probably will have departed the U.S. and will be living in a country without extradition.

Trump claims U.S. born workers are experiencing a job boom. Data reflects to the contrary. No way, Jose! A Trump lie, misrepresentation, and/or bullshit. Your choice!

Word is Venezuela’s Maduro is holding out the olive branch. Wants to talk with Trump.

Trump’s administration has terminated Washington, D.C.’s three public golf courses. The National Links Trust has operated the courses for the past 5 years. The lease agreement was for 50 years. However, the Department of the Interior cancelled last week.

What plan does Trump have for the courses? His name? Taking them over completely and making them part of his worldwide owned golf courses?

Why can’t Trump leave well enough alone?

Thank you DT and RFK Jr. For the first time in more than 30 years, the U.S. hit 2,500 measles cases in 2025.The last time 2,000 cases were exceeded was in 1992.

Miscellaneous matters.

Snow. Heavy snowfall will continue today in northern New York State. Syracuse will get some. Not as much as the past few days.

Oswego County is north of Syracuse. It is expected snow falling on Oswego County over the next 36 hours will be considerably heavier than Syracuse has experienced.

The winter problem for the Community of Oswego and the County of Oswego as a whole is that they border on Lake Ontario. Winters are hell! Cold and snowy. I know from experience. I tried many cases in Oswego. Big ones! Very cold snowy winters.

The accident cases were big. For a community of relatively low income, they thought big when it came to awarding dollars. In one case, I walked away with a $2 million settlement the first day of trial. Received several $1 million results. Six figure results were frequent.

Hershey Chocolate was founded in 1894. The company continues to have a long life. What’s better than Hershey Chocolate candy?

Tootsie Rolls and the Korean War. Would you believe?

It was the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. U.S. Marines were in trouble. Surrounded by Chinese and North Korean forces. Radioed for help. Requested 60-millimeter mortars. Ordered them by their code name “Tootsie Rolls.”

The Marines received boxes of real candy tootsie rolls.

The Marines ate them. Ordered more of the mortar kind.

The candy served more than the one purpose of being eaten. Some of the rolls were heated and used to plug holes in bullet-ridden cars and radiators.

In the end, the Tootsie Rolls helped the Marines survive the Battle.

On this day in 1865, Joe Namath spurned the NFL to sign a record deal with the AFL New York Jets. Turned out to be a smart move on his part!

Live and learn. A polar bear’s life generally lasts into the mid 20s. If the bear is confined and receiving constant care. Otherwise, the bear’s demise is earlier. 

An Ontario wildlife refuge recently held a “sweet 16” birthday party for one of its polar bears. His name Ganuk. Gifted him. An oversized driver’s license, a large toy car stuffed with tropical fruit, a pumpkin birthday cake, and wrapped gift boxes loaded with snacks.

A big day for Ganuk!

Roald Reagan was sworn in this day in 1967 as California Governor.

I had the privilege once of meeting the man. It was when he still was Governor.

I was a member of Miami’s Jockey Club for a number of years. So long that I was treated special. The maitre de saved the best table for me for dinner each evening. I rarely dined elsewhere.

One evening I came down to dinner. Walked “to my table!” Two couples were sitting there. I must have looked strangely at them. Asked me if something was wrong. Without thinking, I uttered “my table.”

By this time, I recognized one of the men. Ronald Reagan. I had heard he was at the club. Staying on a large boat in the marina.

Embarrassment prevailed! I was embarrassed by my stupid comment. They were embarrassed because they were guests in the club and had remained sitting long after dinner enjoying the ambiance.

By this time, the maitre de appeared. All flustered and embarrassed. To them and me. 

We all made nothing out of it. Shook hands around. I took a table next to them. Second best, but ok.

When Reagan and his party were leaving, Reagan stopped at my table to apologize again. A gentlemen. We talked for about 15 minutes. While his friends waited at the bar.

I complimented him for the fine job he was doing as California Governor. Told him I hoped he would have the opportunity to run for President. I Would vote for him even though I was a Democrat.

I did.

Ankle till painful. Swelling going down. Must go to buy a few groceries today. The refrigerator is down to one bottle of water and one inch of orange marmalade.

I read an article earlier this morning listing Democratic candidates for President in 2028. I was disappointed. Mark Kelley’s name did not appear. Politicos do not know what they are doing if he is not in the mix. From my perspective, he was better than any of those listed.

Enjoy your day!

Happy New Year 2026! May it be a better year than the last one. Depends if we continue to  have Donald Trump as President. Though I question how much better Vance might be.

Two major Supreme Court decisions yesterday. Both bad for Trump. 

Trump’s sending the National Guard into U.S. cities came to an abrupt end. The Supreme Court deemed it unconstitutional. Chicago significant in defeating Trump.

The other case sort of secret. Came out of nowhere. There is law which permits the Supreme Court to handle certain cases secretly. This was one.

It hit the news around 10 o’clock last night. Trump and his lawyers did not expect the decision. Word is Trump went crazy when he was made aware. The decision has to do with money. I do not understand all of it. One phase concerns Trump possibly having received foreign dollars to use in his campaign. A no no under American law.

The Supreme Court gave Trump 72 hours to reveal the financial information he has thus far failed to do. Otherwise he faces contempt and possible jail time. The Supreme Court was very clear about this.

I find it strange that neither the Washington Post nor New York Times carried information re this decision in today’s publications. Short staffed for the holiday?

Another item involving Donald was carried on some early morning TV news channels this morning. It claimed Trump’s private jet had set down in the Teterboro Airport in New Jersey to refuel. The plane was also subjected to a search. Lo and behold, suitcases were found carrying $30 million to $50 million in cash. 

Trump’s plane was being refueled for an 8-10 hour flight. Sounded like its destination was the Mideast.

Trump was not on the plane.

The news suggested it was illegal to take more than $10,000 out of the U.S. Possibly legal if certain filings had been made. None could be found.

I am not sure of the law as set forth in my previous paragraphs. Merely laying them out per my understanding of the news involved.

Trump was sponsoring a large New Year’s party at Mar-a-Lago when he received the news. Word is he terminated the party and sent everyone home.

So much for Donald. His New Year’s holiday might not have been the best.

Steve called me to go out with he and Cindy last night. I begged off. My ankle would not have handled it.

Laid in bed intending to watch the New Year come in on TV. Never made it. Fell asleep at 10:30. Woke at 5 this morning. A good sleep.

Some other pertinent news/events which occurred this day.

The ancient Roman calendar started the year in March.

Live and learn. When did we start putting ice in drinks?

Keeping drinks cool goes back 4,000 years. Before refrigerators and freezers, humans would get ice from mountain tops and bring it to their homes. Their it was stored in makeshift containers to preserve its “cold.” Used primarily in drinks.

A fad only available as a luxury and used primarily by the rich.

Walt Disney: “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

On this day in 1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

On this day in 1818, Mary  Shelley’s  “Frankenstein” was published.

On this day in 1892, the first immigrants arrived at Ellis Island. My grandparents and my mother were certain of my ancestors who came to U.S. shores by arriving at Ellis Island.

The weather outside was frightful yesterday. Cold. Will continue to be cold today, though warmer than yesterday. Yesterday was in the high 60s. I was cold yesterday and last night. Not the Florida weather I opted for.

My person for President in 2028. Mark Kelley. A U.S. Senator, former astronaut and 25 year Navy veteran. Not a Donald Trump in any fashion.

Enjoy your day!

I met a Penelope yesterday. My first one.

I was at Date and Thyme for a smoothie. Packed! Never saw so many customers before. Had to be the holiday!

Got one of two corner seats. Sat next to a female. Much younger than me. Lovely. Her name Penelope.

We chatted. I shard my smoothie with her. She has been in Key West since 1985. Presently a waitress at Casa Marina. Sounded like she had been an employee there for a number of years.

Did a little research on the name Penelope. Derived from Greek mythology. The faithful wife of Odysseus, the legendary Trojan warrior. She waited 20 years for Odysseus’ return from the Trojan War. During that time she fended off suitors by promising to chose one after weaving a shroud for Laertes, which she secretly unraveled each night.

Practical Greek meaning of Penelope: With a web on her face. Penelope also means “duck.”

Thousands of women named Penelope. A mere handful of men so named.

Hope to run into her again. An interesting woman.

It was Dr. Blass for me yesterday at noon. He is caring for my post cancer ankle wound.

His check-up painful. I told him he was “hurting me.” He responded he was “helping me.” He was correct. Kept my mouth shut thereafter.

Following Dr. Blass and Date & Thyme it was home for the balance of the day. Primarily in bed. Pain all day!

In spite of the pain, I could see the wound healing. Still has a long way to go, however. Wound size reducing and pain, though severe, less.

Eating limited yesterday. Two smoothies and one Stauffer frozen fettucine. The pain keeps me semi-nauseous and lacking in eating interest.

New Year’s Eve. I shall remain in. Wound still healing. Would not take “walking abuse.”

TV will be my pleasure this evening. Assuming I am still awake at midnight.

In my lifetime, I rarely went out New Year’s Eve. Considered it “amateur night.” Preferred home parties and my golf club the Yahundasis in Utica.

New Year resolutions date back 4,000 years. To Egypt and the Babylonians of Mesopotamia.

The number of Americans who make New Year resolutions total 30 percent.

Glasses of sparkling wine downed in the U.S. each New Year’s Eve 360 million.

Days of the year in the earliest Roman calendar different from ours today. Theirs 304, ours 365.

“Auld Lang Syne” is the most frequently sung song in English. Auld Lang Syne goes back to the 16th century. Guy Lombardo gave it modern day popularity with the Royal Canadians.

Auld Lang Syne is is one of the top three frequently sung sons. The other two are “Happy Birthday” and “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”

I find the Et Cetera section of “1440 Daily Digest” one of the best “go to” sections to read on a daily basis. This morning’s disappointed me, however. Not one thing interested me. Surprising!

The U.S., Trump inspired, has militarily attacked seven countries this year. Nothing to be proud of!

A honoree! Key West’s Daniel Castano Piedrahita has been awarded Junior Sailor of the Year by the U.S. Navy. Congrats local Key Wester!

Part of Trump’s long time “attack” on Minnesota’s alleged “fraud claims. His administration has halted children’s payments. Make the little ones suffer…..why not. They and their parents have little to fall back on.

Syracuse yesterday experienced its second biggest snowfall in 32 years. Twenty four plus inches. Lake snow. With more to come. The snowfall was Syracuse’s second largest in its recorded history.

The Supreme Court has taken the National Guard away from Trump. About time! I am fearful of even a gun, let alone another Army in his control. He has enough with the usual military which is under his control as President. He’s dangerous. Give him something and he will use it. Chicago did him in with the National Guard

Trump running Kennedy Center into the ground. Shows and performers cancelling. Only one show remains scheduled for the next six months.

Trump wants Canadian water for California. Canada refuses to supply water. Canada’s refusal probably would not have occurred were it not for Trump’s attitude and fault. You can’t piss on people and then come back to them for a favor.

Pete Hegseth screwed up. Claims windmills a threat to national security. Segseth following Trump’s dislike for windmills. Recall at some time in Europe Trump felt they were interfering with one of his golf courses. 

Hegseth sucking up to Trump to keep his job. Claims windmills in U.S. a “danger to national security.” Screw up the radar.

Such bullshit!

Keep in mind Mark Kelly. He would make a great President. A U.S. Senator and former astronaut.

Happy holiday! Do not overdrink. Enjoy waiting for midnight to roar in. 

I had three consecutive nights sleep amounting to no more than 2 hours each night. Generally from 4 in the morning to 6.

Not a way to live. Not a way to sleep.

Don’t know why.

Finally got a good nights sleep last night. Nine last evening to six this morning. The sleep of the dead. No dreams.

Woke to my Mother. I have an oil painting of her when she was about 60. It sits on the wall at the foot of my bed. Smiling down upon me. It was a pleasure waking to her and her beloved smile.

Ankle cancer surgery improving. See Dr. Blass early this afternoon. He will hurt me when he changes the bandage. The medication causes the bandage to stick to the wound. Oh, the pain!

Trump’s language lacking in Presidential flavor. Crude. Many times disgusting.

Trump spoke at a dinner Monday night at the Trump-Kennedy Center. He took a shot at those decrying the addition of his name. Said some like Dems could shoot their comments or shove their comments up their asses.

Trump tends to lie and exaggerate. A comedian recently suggested a possible new Trump lie/exaggeration: Trump saying, “He caught more shrimp in his mouth at a Benihana than any President in history.”

Go for it, Donald!

A recent internet comment…..If God made gay people, why is being gay a sin?

Excellent question.

The first razor with disposable blades was sold in 1903. One year later in 1904, the number of disposable blades had sky rocketed to 2 million.

London was devastated by German bombs early in World War II. Ninety forty was the worst year for the English. December 29, 1940 the absolute worst evening.

Bridgette Bardot died recently at the age of 91. A beauty in her day! One of history’s most prominent sex symbols.

A unique New Year’ Eve ball drop intended for this year. The ball will drop twice. The second ball will drop to honor America’s semiquence- ntenneal year.

New York City remains cold. Today at 46 degrees will be the coldest.

A Trump lie. He claims Washington, D.C. murders eliminated. Citizens say no, not true. Who knows best? He who sits in the White House or those who walk the streets?

Christmas in the Keys is the busiest time of the year. Amazing! Not surprising, however. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic heavy.

RKK Jr. has changed/eliminated some vaccines. Has made other medical alterations also. My gut tells me the error of his ways will be clearly obvious by the end of the year. The American public will feel them.

Things to come? Kansas City portends the future? One going to two rent strikes. Will it spread rapidly?

The Russian-Ukraine War is fraying Russian society. Putin has gone a few steps too far. Too many steps.

Word is Trump has U.S. troops on the ground in Venezuela. Where is Congressional authority? Why is Congress on break and not doing its job?

Trump and Netanyahu show “unity” as Middle East tensons rise. Unity will not last. Little lasts with Trump.

Cold weather will hit Central Eastern Florida Wednesday. Chill winds will drop to the 20s tonight.

On this day in 1922, the USSR was established.

A fire broke out on this day in 1903 in the Iroquois Theater in Chicago. Killed 600 people. The deadliest fire in U.S. history up to that time., Strangely, the building had been declared fireproof when opened in 1903.

The Key West Library. The place where Tennessee Williams and Jimmy Buffett read and recorded.

Tiger Woods was born this day in 1975.

Rudyard Kipling: “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.”

Thieves made off with $400,000 of Costco lobsters. A major theft. FBI investigating.

New study reveals teen American girls do not show anger because they fear they will be disliked.

Another study revealed men 45 and older are lonelier than ever.

Keep Mark Kelly in mind for President in 2028. The man for the job!

Enjoy your day!

The New York big snowstorm was not as big as expected. Large enough to be troublesome, but only minimally so. 

Many the snowstorms this 90 year old has experienced. The big ones ran a foot or more. Yesterday’s a mere 4 plus inches in the New York City area. Enough to be troublesome if the City were not ready. The whole State was ready! So 4 inches was nothing. Nor would one foot have been.

New York City experienced its heaviest snowfall in 4 years. That mere 4 inches.

My former home town of Utica experienced lake effect snow. Heavy. A pain to deal with. Not bad yesterday, however. As with New York City, much less than expected. With Utica ready for it, of course. Street falls varied, as were neighborhoods. Some a mere bit, others a few inches.

I suspect not the fun they were years ago when families were stuck home 3-4 days. Fun time. Families got to know each other again.

On the last day or two, many families were able to walk several blocks to a park snow covered hill. Good sized. We brought sleighs and toboggans with us. Up and down the hill. Whooping it up. Followed by cups of steaming hot chocolate at a chalet at the bottom of the hill.

My Father broke his nose on one of the toboggan rides. He was on his knees at the back steering. We hit a bump. Toboggan and its passengers up in the air! My Dad came down with his nose hitting the back edge of the toboggan.

His surgery painful. I still recall standing by his bed following his surgery hurting with him.

Live and learn. The beloved Statue of Liberty began as a monument for Egypt. Plan was to call it “Egypt Carrying the Light to Asia.” A statue of a Muslim woman. It was to be placed at the entrance way of the Suez Canal in Port Said.

However the Egyptian statue was deemed too costly to produce and the Port Said Lighthouse was erected instead.

A second site was decided upon. Its present location in New York City harbor. Its purpose to honor the century old alliance between the U.S. and France, as well as America’s successful effort in abolishing slavery. 

I have been to the crown in the Statue of Liberty on two occasions. Once in my youth when my Father took me. As an adult when I took my four children.

Hundred of stairs to climb. Hundreds of people climbing with you. The crown our goal. The hand and torch had been closed years earlier as being unsafe.

The crown has 25 windows. People crushed together to get a window to look through.

The Statue of Liberty was originally copper colored. Lasted 35 years before it began to turn green.

The world’s first commercial movie screening took place this day in 1895 at the Grand Cafe in Paris.

A sport’s first! On this day in 1958, the Baltimore Colts defeated the New York Giants 24-17 in overtime in the NFL Championship Game. A back and forth thriller. Considered the “Greatest Game Ever Played.”

Italy got nailed! The worst European earthquake in recorded European history. Struck the Straight of Messina in Southern Italy. Leveled parts of Messina and Reggio di Calabria on the Italian mainland. This day in 1908. One hundred thousand killed.

America’s first test tube baby was born in Norfolk, Virginia this day in 1981.

Denzel Washington: “You pray for rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. That’s a part of it.”

Attorneys and outdoor billboards. In 2024, attorneys spent an estimated $541 million on outdoor ads. A terrific marketing tactic. Brought their names to an oversaturated market.

Mark Kelly again! My candidate and should be yours also for President in 2028.

Enjoy your last Sunday of the year!

Ho, ho ho! New York State experiencing a snow emergency. Eight to twelve inches. Not a bad thing. Good for the people to experience every several years or so. A change of pace.

I attended college in New York City. Manhattan College. A major snowstorm struck. Snow removal massive. Snow was picked from the streets and loaded onto huge trucks. The trucks were driven to street sewers. The sewer caps removed. The snow dumped into the sewers.

 New York City street snow removal in the 1950s!

Fun however were the infrequent occasional massive snow storms of later years when my family and I were residing in Utica. A major snowstorm was good for 3-4 days of remaining at home. The family together indoors during the time. Discovering each other as a family. Primarily lying around on the living room floor in front of a roaring fire place.

The storm was expected. Food purchased big time prior thereto.

For some reason, everyone got along. Family clashes minimal. 

I recall one major storm. We were still living in the small house on Gibson Road. City plows had run the snow high onto the sides of streets. Driveways were plugged.  Moving traffic non-existent. A major snowstorm. The snow had been plowed into our driveway some 10-15 feet high.

I was getting a little stir crazy. Decided to walk to my parents’ home. About one mile away.

It had stopped snowing. The driveway had the mountain of snow plugging it. I decided to take John with me. I doubt he was even 5 years old at the time.

We trudged through the driveway snow to the street and the mountain of snow blocking the driveway entrance. The 10-15 feet. I looked at the high rise. The impossible task of getting over. Came up with a plan. Picked up my 5 year old son and threw him high and to the top of the pile. Then pushed my way up and threw John down into the road. There was no traffic to be seen anywhere.

Then John and I walked to my parents home where we spent several hours. My Mother warmed us up with hot food.

The return trip was the same. Streets basically clean and easy to traverse. The 10-15 foot pile still plugging the driveway. For John it was up, up and away again.

An interesting trip. Different. One we both enjoyed.

Note Utica was totally closed down. No one worked. Everyone confined to home. Resulting in a happy family time.

The present storm is still falling. The State expected to receive 8-12 inches of snow. Governor Hochul has announced a state of emergency.

New York’s last major storm was in January 2022.

Marlene Dietrich was born this day in 1901. A woman of quotes: “I love quotations because it is a joy to find thoughts one might have, beautifully expressed with much authority by someone recognized wiser than oneself.”

Radio City Music Hall opened in New York City this day in 1932. Many times in my youth my parents took me.

Live and learn. In Germany, men urinate sitting down.

Many products came out of World War I. Today taken for granted. Wrist watches, trench coats, plastic surgery, zippers, Kotex sanitary pads, and Kleenex tissues.

Trump wants wars. Note his most recent activity. His airstrike of Nigeria. His purpose to “protect Christians.”

He’s a warmonger. He is going to get us into a major conflict. Venezuela is kid stuff. Canada is fearful and has gotten ready for a possible war with the U.S. Hard to believe. The ultimate would be Russia and China. Could be.

Rumor is floating that Kumail Nanjiani had an affair with Michelle Obama. Nanjiani’s response to the rumor: “I’ve never even met Michelle Obama.”

Continue keeping Mark Kelly in mind for our next President. Well qualified. A 25 year Navy veteran, an astronaut and U.S. Senator.

Enjoy your day!

Christmas is for the kids. No question about it. The big question comes early Christmas morning. The children are up early. Anxious to see what Santa Claus had brought them.

I recall some of those mornings vividly.

My wife Mary Lourdes and I were up late laying out Santa’s gifts. Our children numbered four. Four pregnancies in four years. Four births in five. One boy, three girls. John, Beth, Lori and Lisa. We learned how to make babies early. My wife being a good Catholic contributed. She refused to practice birth control. There was a fifth pregnancy which she lost. It taught her the importance of birth control.

We had a set routine for Christmas morning. No one went downstairs to see without Mom and Dad. My kids who all slept late, never slept late on Christmas morning. They were all up and in our bedroom between 5 and 6. Woke us up, insisting it was time to see what Santa Claus had brought.

Mary Lourdes and I were exhausted. We had not gotten to bed till 2 or 3 am.

They were relentless. We had to rise and go see. No returning to bed for them.

We led them downstairs to the living room and the tree and hopefully Santa’s gifts.

They attacked the tree and gifts with an exuberance special to Christmas morning. They went crazy. Yelling and screaming “He came!” Laughing and tearing into the gifts.

I recall specifically two of those Christmas mornings.

John was our oldest. It was his time for a large two wheel bike. Santa had left a 26 inch two wheeler. John lost it! He never expected a big bicycle. He cried.

In those days, large gifts were sold not put together. It took me two hours to put the bike together the night before. My work was well worth it when I viewed John’s reaction.

A Lisa experience remains in my mind these many years later. Lisa was the fourth and youngest of our children. She was around two years old at the time. The last down the stairs and the last to attack Santa’s gifts. She had dolls, bears and what have you. Plus clothes. Mary Lourdes always used Santa to bring new clothes for the children also.

We watched happily the joy Santa had brought the children. We watched their playing joyfully with their new toys. Everyone noisy, except Lisa. Recall a mere two years old. She was sitting on the floor playing with the hangers that had accompanied her new clothes. Not the dolls or stuffed animals. Simple metal hangers.

There is another Christmas tree story that has remained with us over the years. I had a 20 x 40 foot family room constructed onto our first home. Big enough to accommodate our family of six. Large enough for two sofas. two barka lounges, a piano, TV set and numerous end tables.

It was Christmas time. A few days before. Everyone was out except me. I was sitting in one corner of the family room reading. It was early afternoon. Heavy snow could be seen out the large windows. The decorated Christmas tree in the opposite corner.

Suddenly my eyes saw a flicker. It looked like the huge 19 foot fully decorated Christmas tree was falling. It was. Slowly but surely.

I rushed to it. Was able to grab onto the top part. There I stood holding the tree on a 45 degree angle. I knew if it hit the floor, the decorations would be a mess. Lights, balls and tinsels all over the place.

There were no cell phones in those days. The family room had a plugged in phone on a wall farthest from me. No way I could get to the phone without losing the tree.

I stood there holding it for 3 hours before the family returned. First cries of shock from them. Then laughs at how stupid I looked holding the tree from its topside.

I had done a good job. Only ten percent of the decoration had fallen off. We replaced the tree in it setting. Secure this time. Mary Lourdes and the kids fixed the decorations.

The scene and story was especially funny to them then. It became a topic of recollection at Christmas time for years following. I was the brunt of a humorous Christmas story for years.

So much for Christmas morning and the falling tree.

I remained home alone last night. Developed a bad stomach and upchucking earlier in the day. No mood for eating nor did I want to spread whatever I had to anyone else. Feel fine this morning. My request to Corey and Robert was to bring me the Italian Christmas cookies Lisa had baked for me to consume today.

Remember Mark Kelly. May he be our President in 2028. 

Enjoy your Christmas Day. A very Merry Christmas to one and all!