Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

July 23, 2021 · by John W. Howell · in TGIF · 97 Comments

“Lucy. What are all these people doing out front?”
“I told you yesterday. They are here to install the turf.”
“All that machinery. Going to put a damper on Friday ruckus.”
“Yup.”

Another hooray for Friday. It is nice that we are all on the eve of two days of rest. I’m over at Story Empire today complaining about not working on my manuscript. Come visit if you want to see a grown man cry. Here’s the link.

I always hate to discuss COVID but given the fact that new cases are up 55% across the country makes it hard to ignore. 97% of the new hospitalized infections are occurring in unvaccinated people. Sadly too, 99% of the people who die have not been vaccinated. It looks like a new serge of Covid is on the way due to the Delta variant. Breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated folks still remain at a low level.

We have survived this situation before, and I think it may be time for all of us to take precautions to keep ourselves and our families safe. However, I’m not going to look to the government for this precaution since the whole mask, social distance, and shut down process has become a political morass.

More bad news from the Olympics in Tokyo. The opening ceremony Director Kentaro Kobayashi was fired in response to anti-holocaust statements he made while performing a comedy act in 1998. He was the opening ceremony director since 2019. He is the last in a string of Toyko Olympics officials to be let go for indescretions. The US team has moved from the Olympic village due to COVID concerns. It looks like this Olympic venue is going to have more troubles. I feel badly for the athletes.

Today’s JohnKu talks about the Olympics. I hope you have a great weekend.

Four years to prepare,

A world wide celebration . . .

Of human spirit.

Tags: author, books, Circumstances of Childhood, Eternal Road - The final stop, fiction favorites, Friday, His Revenge, John W. Howell Author, JohnKu, My GRL, Our Justice, TGIF, The Contract with Gwen Plano

97 comments

davidprosser · July 23, 2021 - 4:52 am ·

Have a great weekend John. Like you I feel for the athletes. All that effort that training going o waste.
Hugs

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:16 am ·
  
  I know. Sad. Thanks, David.
  
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Writer Lori · July 23, 2021 - 5:09 am ·

Can’t wait to see the new turf, John. Agree with you…the situation with the pandemic is disheartening. Cases soaring amongst the unvaccinated here in Florida, too. 😔

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:16 am ·
  
  I thought we had it licked, but I guess not.
  
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  1. Writer Lori · July 23, 2021 - 3:30 pm ·
    
    I know…it’s a bummer.
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 4:41 pm ·
      
      Yes it is. 😁
      
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Liz Gauffreau · July 23, 2021 - 5:10 am ·

I am so ready for a Friday ruckus.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:20 am ·
  
  Me too. Liz.
  
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Joan Hall · July 23, 2021 - 5:41 am ·

I feel for the athletes. And I hate that we’re having a surge of infections again. Here’s to better times!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:26 am ·
  
  Let’s hope more gat the vaccine. I think it’s the only way. Thanks, Joan. 😊
  
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Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections · July 23, 2021 - 5:51 am ·

Potential good news, John … once the IOC cancels the Olympics, you’ll have more writing time.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:27 am ·
  
  Hahaha. I don’t think they are going to cancel. Thanks, Frank.
  
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Dan Antion · July 23, 2021 - 6:20 am ·

I do feel bad for these athletes, John. I hope you have a great weekend. I’ll catch you at SE in a bit.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:30 am ·
  
  Thanks Dan. At least we will be able to let the pups out in the backyard. This leash thing is a pain. 😁
  
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  1. Dan Antion · July 23, 2021 - 10:21 am ·
    
    Maddie is always on a leash. She has issues. If we just let her out, she sits and waits for us. She won’t do anything off leash 🙁
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 11:03 am ·
      
      These two just love their yard and do love the leash too. They just need to have the freedom to go out when they want. Hopefull this afternoon. I think Maddie is smart. There were times that when I was off leash trouble found me.
      
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    2. Dan Antion · July 23, 2021 - 11:59 am ·
      
      Haha – is that where the 10-things lists come from? 😏
      
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    3. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:25 pm ·
      
      Hard to say where they come from. 😁
      
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Jill Weatherholt · July 23, 2021 - 6:24 am ·

I’m with Liz!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:30 am ·
  
  Me too. 😁
  
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GP · July 23, 2021 - 6:31 am ·

I hate to see trouble of any kind at the Olympics, those kids work for years to get here and the countries actually get along for a week or two!
Read your interview, and it was strange to see John W. Howell as a living, breathing human – cut that out! 🤓😵

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 8:00 am ·
  
  I feel for them as well. Let’s hope everything will turn out well. Interview? You sure it was me. 😁
  
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  1. GP · July 23, 2021 - 12:13 pm ·
    
    Well, now that you mention it…….
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:22 pm ·
      
      😁
      
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Charles Yallowitz · July 23, 2021 - 6:42 am ·

I’m dreading the upcoming school year with this surge. The mask thing was becoming a mess near the end of last year. I assume it’ll be a point of massive contention from the start.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 8:01 am ·
  
  Kids under twelve have no protection other than a mask. I would say until everyone is sure masks should be worn. But that’s me. Thanks, Charles. 😊
  
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  1. Charles Yallowitz · July 23, 2021 - 8:18 am ·
    
    I’d say the same thing. I know some people who lie about being vaccinated too. At the very least, they go around without masks until their caught. Then it’s on and back off once the employee is out of sight.
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 9:50 am ·
      
      That is really cutting off your nose to spite yourface for sure.
      
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    2. Charles Yallowitz · July 23, 2021 - 9:51 am ·
      
      Ironic since they were the ones wearing masks below their nose.
      
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    3. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 10:50 am ·
      
      Hahahaha.
      
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Teri Polen · July 23, 2021 - 7:02 am ·

Numbers are up here, also. Hoping this will encourage more folks to get vaccinated. Have a great weekend, John!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 8:03 am ·
  
  I guess a lot of people were hoping if everyone else got vaccinated they wouldn’t have to do it. I hope they change their mind.
  
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portmanguy · July 23, 2021 - 8:10 am ·

Covid is surging over here too, John. The Japanese are usually so good at organising stuff, but Covid put a spanner in the works this time around. I imagine like me you’ll still watch the odd event though. Hopefully ‘The Games’ don’t prove to be a distraction from your WIP, or mine for that matter.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 9:49 am ·
  
  I don’t know about a distraction. Might be a good excuse to take a break. Have a super weekend , Guy. (BTW these Fridays come pretty fast these days)
  
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Dale · July 23, 2021 - 9:08 am ·

I know the athletes have worked four, no five, years for this Olympics but honestly… they should have been cancelled again, I fear. Things are way too much of a mess.
Here, too, the new cases are mostly the unvaccinated. Still, there are those who refuse. What can you do?

Looking forward to seeing your new turf!
Have a spectactular Friday!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 10:38 am ·
  
  Someone said that the natural selection process will take care of the unvaccinated. I just wish people wouldn’t wait until it is too late. Thanks you for the Friday wish, Dale. The turf is almost finished. Looks great.
  
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  1. Dale · July 23, 2021 - 10:52 am ·
    
    Yeah. I hear you, John. It’s so sad that people are still refusing (I have some in my own family – they are the ones who also spew all that garbage of things like the Holocaust didn’t exist… We just try to avoid conversing with them.)
    I bet it does!
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 11:17 am ·
      
      I’m glad I don’t have family members that think vaccinations are not needed. That would make a pretty tense situation.
      
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    2. Dale · July 23, 2021 - 12:55 pm ·
      
      Thankfully, these are cousins that I only see at weddings and funerals 😏
      
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    3. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:12 pm ·
      
      Ah, cousins. Explains it.
      
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    4. Dale · July 23, 2021 - 2:26 pm ·
      
      Relatively intelligent in regular circumstances. One is, after all, a criminal lawyer… but still. Eeesh.
      
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    5. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:32 pm ·
      
      My cousins could drive me up the wall with some of their beliefs. Sadly both have passed.
      
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    6. Dale · July 23, 2021 - 2:35 pm ·
      
      I understand. I have so many cousins and second cousins and that makes for lots of ideas – not all of them good, needless to say. Sadly part of life, losing them, I mean.
      
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    7. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 4:34 pm ·
      
      Yes, even with their quirks.
      
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Gwen M. Plano · July 23, 2021 - 11:07 am ·

The Olympics was once exhilarating to watch. Young healthy athletes striving to reach beyond expected limits — yep, truly exhilarating. Life has become so complicated since COVID and BLM and … politics. Another great post, John. Have a great weekend. 😊

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 11:19 am ·
  
  Thank you, Gwen. Yes life has become less lighthearted for sure. Our country is in idealogical shreds and it is hard to try and forget that even with something like the Olympics.
  
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coldhandboyack · July 23, 2021 - 11:58 am ·

I can’t imagine trying to be a comedian these days. Everything seems to be off limits, and there are people combing your back-life just to destroy whatever you’re accomplishing today. Thoughts like that are enough to stifle creativity.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:25 pm ·
  
  I agree. Seems almost like a loss of freedom of speech.
  
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Jacquie Biggar · July 23, 2021 - 12:09 pm ·

It gets to where a person is scared to say boo in case it’s used against them twenty years from now. I agree with those who have committed violent crimes in the past paying for their transgressions, but just for something said…?
Numbers are rising in Canada, as well, and our borders are opening- wave #3 is on the horizon.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:24 pm ·
  
  I’m afraid so too on the wave three, Jacquie. Things said who we are young should have a forgiveness factor.
  
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robertawrites235681907 · July 23, 2021 - 12:34 pm ·

Our infection rate in Johannesburg has dropped and the word on the street is that our current wave of Covid has peaked. My mom and aunt had their second Phizer vaccination today. Terence and I are going on the 2 August for ours. A shame about the problems in Tokyo.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:16 pm ·
  
  That would be wonderful news if COVID has peaked there. Good for you on the second shot.
  
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Debbie · July 23, 2021 - 1:39 pm ·

I, too, feel bad for the Olympians. To have trained so hard and so long, then to have to fret over whether you’ll be able to compete (and then, without a cheering audience) feels wrong on so many counts. Enjoy your weekend, John!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:08 pm ·
  
  It does seem wrong. Have a good weekend, Debbie.
  
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The Coastal Crone · July 23, 2021 - 2:10 pm ·

I agree that we can’t expect the government to fix everything. People should take responsibility for their actions. I have run out of patience for those who refuse to get vaccinated or to vaccinate their children! The rest of us have to do what we think is best to keep ourselves safe. TGIF to you!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 2:34 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Jo. With the rate rising I’m not giving up my mask. Happy weekend.
  
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Tails Around the Ranch · July 23, 2021 - 2:52 pm ·

Since COVID seems to be back on the upswing, I’m carrying my mask with me everywhere, despite being vaccinated. Sadly it seems as the damage has been done for the Olympics as well as the with professional football. I don’t understand why people are consciously avoiding getting the vaccines. mRNA vaccines don’t work like those that obliterated polio 50+ years ago. Sigh. Have a good weekend, John. With (hopefully) not too many tears.

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 4:39 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Monika. I agree with you on not understanding getting a shot. It seems so logical to me but I guess not to others. Have a super weekend too.
  
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kethuprofumo · July 23, 2021 - 4:23 pm ·

I wish you happy turf, dear John! You have a true turf party at the Twiggy Resort! Hurrah!😉😉😉

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 4:45 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Maria. We have celebrated the turf.
  
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  1. kethuprofumo · July 23, 2021 - 4:46 pm ·
    
    🥂
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 5:18 pm ·
      
      😊
      
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  2. kethuprofumo · July 23, 2021 - 4:46 pm ·
    
    Cheers! Long live the turf!
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 5:18 pm ·
      
      🍸🍸 🍸 😁
      
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Vashti Q · July 23, 2021 - 5:02 pm ·

A wonderful post, John! I too feel and worry for the athletes. I expected a lot more people to be vaccinated by now. I had stopped wearing my mask for a while, after getting the vaccine, but I’m going to start wearing it again. Enjoy the weekend! ❤

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 5:16 pm ·
  
  Good idea on the mask. Thanks, Vashti.
  
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D. Wallace Peach · July 23, 2021 - 5:27 pm ·

Covid continues to make its mark. I’m headed to the story empire to hear you complain since I can relate!

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 5:30 pm ·
  
  Hahaha. Thanks, Diana.
  
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Sorryless · July 23, 2021 - 7:05 pm ·

Hopefully the Games can go on without interruption, but you’re right, there is a new mess to tend to now.

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The Hook · July 23, 2021 - 7:44 pm ·

Another brilliant Johnku!
(Love that term.)

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1. John W. Howell · July 23, 2021 - 7:58 pm ·
  
  I like it too. it was coined by a reader.
  
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Mae Clair · July 23, 2021 - 8:16 pm ·

There is so much going on and so much that is effed but right now, I sadly have no words. 😦
I hope you have a good weekend, John.

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1. John W. Howell · July 24, 2021 - 6:58 am ·
  
  You as well, Mae. 😊
  
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OIKOS™- Art, Books & more · July 24, 2021 - 4:11 am ·

Reblogged this on NEW OPENED BLOG > https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.

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OIKOS™- Art, Books & more · July 24, 2021 - 4:14 am ·

The two are in house arrest? 😉 Twiggy seems to be the busier one. xx Michael

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Jan Sikes · July 24, 2021 - 2:07 pm ·

So much massive destruction and death in every direction you look. The world is in a mess. There is no other way to describe it. I love the JohnKu. Stay safe!

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1. John W. Howell · July 24, 2021 - 4:00 pm ·
  
  Thank you, Jan. Stay safe as well.
  
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Resa · July 24, 2021 - 3:45 pm ·

Best to all the athletes!
What a crock of shi! this virus is.
What crock is it that contains all the anti-vaxers?
My Baba made sauerkraut in giant crocks.
Those days are forever gone.
I never liked sauerkraut.
I HATE the virus.

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1. John W. Howell · July 24, 2021 - 3:50 pm ·
  
  Hahahaha. I love this. 🤣
  
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  1. Resa · July 24, 2021 - 4:00 pm ·
    
    Baba would have approved!
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 24, 2021 - 4:09 pm ·
      
      😁
      
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Book Club Mom · July 24, 2021 - 7:39 pm ·

Hey John, yes the spread of the variant is catching everyone’s attention. I’m wondering what will happen here on the east coast. We are fully open – no masks, etc. I’m glad my entire family has been vaccinated. Take care. I’m looking forward to your Views of the Neighborhood tomorrow, although I might not get to read it until Monday.

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1. John W. Howell · July 25, 2021 - 6:43 am ·
  
  The varient is scary for sure. Monday is fine for sure. We’ll keep a plate warm for you.
  
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  1. Book Club Mom · July 31, 2021 - 6:09 pm ·
    
    Thank you, John. I’m very behind. Please forgive me 🙂
    
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    1. John W. Howell · July 31, 2021 - 8:06 pm ·
      
      You are always forgiven, Barbara.
      
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Jennie · July 25, 2021 - 11:37 am ·

The Olympics are just what we need in order to come together to cheer on athletes from all over the world, and take our mind off Covid. Please people, get the vaccine.

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1. John W. Howell · July 25, 2021 - 3:42 pm ·
  
  I agree. Get the vaccine. 😊
  
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  1. Jennie · July 25, 2021 - 9:23 pm ·
    
    Yes!
    
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petespringerauthor · July 25, 2021 - 8:35 pm ·

I’ve been a bit off the grid, John, and I’m playing catch up. It’s weird to come back and realize the Olympics are in progress, and I don’t know anything about what has happened thus far. I saw the USA men’s team lost in basketball—shocking, and the women’s gymnastics team got off to a slow start. Covid seems to be the neverending story these days.

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1. John W. Howell · July 25, 2021 - 9:27 pm ·
  
  I’m not watching the olympics so I’m out of it too.
  
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D.L. Finn, Author · July 26, 2021 - 12:58 am ·

I hate seeing those numbers go up. It’s disheartening. Hopefully the rest of the Olympics goes smoothly.

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1. John W. Howell · July 26, 2021 - 7:08 am ·
  
  Hopefully.
  
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circadianreflections · July 26, 2021 - 9:00 am ·

Hopefully, the ruckus can go on just a wee bit later than usual. I’m looking forward to seeing the new turf.

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1. John W. Howell · July 26, 2021 - 9:02 am ·
  
  Thanks, Deborah. I can tell you the pups love it.
  
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  1. circadianreflections · July 26, 2021 - 9:03 am ·
    
    🥰
    
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markbierman · August 1, 2021 - 2:14 pm ·

I feel for you all, down there. Such a scary thing.

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1. John W. Howell · August 1, 2021 - 3:45 pm ·
  
  Yes indeed. For you as well
  
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