Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

October 8, 2021October 7, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 96 Comments

“What is that. Lucy?”
“I’m not sure. It might be a bear.”
“No it’s Dad.”
“Don’t tell him I said that about the bear.”
“Extra kibble causes me to lose my memory.”
“Come to my dish later.”

Look at that. it is Friday again and time for celebration. (hold it until after five, though). Having given a lot of thought to what I want this Friday post to be, I have decided that posting the news of the day only causes us a little angst. After all, there is very little we can do about the craziness going on in the world.

I have decided to concentrate on the good news side of life. So today, I’ll be posting two stories that have to do with animals. I hope you enjoy them. Yes, the JohnKu will still be here.

The first story is about a 101-year-old woman named Penny and a 19-year-old cat named Gus.

Penny and Gus
Photo courtesy of Humane Society of Catawba County (HSCC) in North Carolina

Gus came into the Humane Society of Catawba County shelter, and after a complete physical, his age was determined to be 19 years old (about 133 in human years). Typically, shelters have a problem placing cats at this age. “Gus’ age was exceptional, but we see older pets on a regular basis. We are still committed to these animals and working to find a new home for them, regardless of their age,” Jane Bower, executive director of the Humane Society of Catawba County, told Newsweek.

Penny had recently lost her cat, so her family was on the lookout for an older kitten. They visited the shelter, and so the rest is history. The shelter describes Penny and Gus as a match made in heaven. Penny reports Gus has made her place feel like a home and eats like a horse.

Our second story is about a manatee that has ventured into the canal area of my old stomping grounds in Port Aransas, TX. Manatees are very seldom seen on the West Coast of Texas, maybe once every other year. This one was observed lazing around. He also was photographed taking a freshwater drink from a hose near one of the private docks.

The Manatee is drinking from a hose.
Photo courtesy of the South Jetty in Port Aransas.

Greg Stunz is a professor of marine biology and endowed chair for Fisheries and Ocean Health at the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He reported the Manatee had some significant injuries but were not fresh. Capture and treatment were impossible since the 500-pound creature slipped away in the murky canal after about an hour. Looks like the Manatee knew what was best, which most animals do.

Today’s JohnKu talks about peace of mind. I hope you all have a peaceful weekend.

In the whole picture,

Finding more good in the news . . .

Is way easier.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

October 1, 2021September 30, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 75 Comments

“You want to chase me, Lucy?”
“It is Friday, so take off.”
“Give me the count of three.”
“One…two, three, Hahaha.”

Well, Friday is here and inviting us all to the weekend. Thanks, Friday, I accept.

This has been the week of Washington.

Congress was successful and extended government funding until December 3rd. On the $1 Trillion infrastructure bill and the $3.4 Trillion climate, healthcare and education bill, there is trouble in paradise. Seems strange that the Dems who control the Senate and house can’t seem to get everyone in line. The progressives (to be read, socialists) want the bigger bill brought forward before approving the smaller. Good luck, Schumer and Pelosi. Of course, the saying is, “Never underestimate Pelosi.” She says she is bringing the infrastructure bill to a vote. As of this writing, I don’t know if she did.

The generals in charge of the military aspect of the Afghanistan withdrawal fiasco have been testifying in front of the Senate and House on Tuesday and Wednesday. Much was said about Biden not following the advice of the generals to have 2500 troops on the ground to cover the withdrawal. The only other big reveal was that the Taliban had offered the U.S. military the option to secure the entire city of Kabul while it was leaving. This would have required more troops which Biden turned down. Had the city been secure maybe, just maybe those 13 Americans might have been spared. Of course we’ll never know. Now that the generals have been grilled by the Senate and house maybe the whole thing will blow over. I’m sure Joe hopes so. I still feel badly for the Americans still left behind and for the families of those killed.

The issue at the border was cleaned up. All the Haitians were shipped out. Looks like 12,400 were let into the country on a temporary basis and about 2000 sent back to Haiti. I think the rush to the border paid off for those wanting to be here.

Right now 55% of all Americans are fully vaccinated. The Biden mandate has not been implemented since there is some guidance needed from the feds. When it does it is probable the numbers will go up.

Today’s JohnKu talks about having Washington in the news. I hope you have a great weekend.

You know it’s bad news,

When all you read about is. . .

Washington hijinks.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

September 24, 2021September 23, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 70 Comments

It is always good to see a Friday roll around. Someone asked me not too long ago why Friday is particular since, as a retiree, all the days are like a day off. My response was something like, “I love Fridays since it marks the end of a workweek and heralds a time of relaxation. Even though I have retired from organized commerce, I still work at writing.” That all sounded good but between you and me. I like Fridays because I am one day closer to having a beer on Saturday. Okay, okay, call me simple, but you have to take pleasure where you can find it at my age.

Today I’m at a couple of places.

The first is with Rox Burkey. She is the co-author of the Techno-Thriller Enigma Series and other books. Rox has been involved in technology for several decades, working for various manufacturers and integrators. She enjoys working with all sorts of customers to make certain they are optimizing the customer experience with each interaction. She loves talking to people and learning about their issues, as well as helping them shape solutions. Rox invited me for a chat about writing, and you can go HERE to check it out. While you are there, drop in on her book pages. There is a ton of excitement on them.

The second is Story Empire. I found a list (Love them) of famous writers talking about writing. If you think you are alone in your angst this list may help. Come on over after your visit with Rox and me. Here is the link.

Today’s JohnKu talks about time. I hope you all have a glorious weekend.

Sometimes time drags on,

Suddenly there’s not enough . . .

WTF feeling.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

September 17, 2021September 16, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 75 Comments

“Well it is Friday and we are at the lounge again.”
“Do you think we are becoming slothful, Lucy?”
“I think prudent is the right descriptor.’

Friday is welcome again. Always good to see its shining face. Friday is like the doorman to the Plaza Hotel in New York City. With a wave of the hand and a hearty welcome to the weekend, Friday makes us feel good.

The FDA is meeting to decide the guiding principles on a booster shot for COVID. All the data suggests that there should be one and now approval for such a move needs to be made. There are still plenty of folks who have not had the first two shots so I wonder what the demand for boosters will do to the supply.

I saw a report yesterday that new car production is being halted due to the lack of silicon chips. Looks like the supply has been affected by COVID. Right now the Ford F150 pickup truck has 150,000 orders that cannot be filled. Hurricane Ida and Nicholas have also hampered the supply chain. The report went on to say the demand for nearly new used cars is up and it might be a good time to sell your used vehicle. Of course, only if you have something else to drive or a horse.

Inflation has raised its ugly head again. For the twelve-month period ending in August, it is 5.2% on the last report. This is compared to a projection of 2.25% made in 2020 and an actual in 2020 of 1.8%. There is some concern that the 3.5 Trillion spending bill will tip us into a hyperinflation situation. When supplies are short (cars, houses, Weber gas grills) there is a tendency for prices to rise if demand can’t be met. We need to watch the indexes. I certainly hope Congress keeps an eye on the data as well. All the social programs that are intended to be delivered won’t help if the population is driven to a position of not being able to afford to live.

This week’s JohnKu talks about trying to find good news in our world today. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Good news is out there,

You are forced to hunt it down . . .

It is quite bashful.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

September 10, 2021September 9, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 78 Comments

“Okay, Lucy. Now explain this again.”
“It’s the sun coming through the living room windows to the porch.”
“You know how crazy that sounds, right?”
“I guess, but it’s true.”

It is Friday again. Yahoo. We can all use a Friday. This was a short week given the holiday on Monday. So, here we are, ready for a weekend.

I’m so glad football season is finally here. Since I have a tough time getting the Steeler broadcasts here in Texas, I have to be satisfied with the college team broadcasts that come our way. So I hunt down Notre Dame, West Virginia University, Michigan State, and Baylor. Those are the places where we went or sent money. I guess I’m pretty lucky to have such a choice.

COVID cases are at the highest level since March. I’m wearing my mask and will be getting a booster as soon as I figure out where to go and when. The information on boosters is very sporadic. The White House set up some additional vaccination mandates covering areas that the Fed can control. In addition, businesses with 100 or more employees need to have all employees vaccinated or tested. OSHA will do the policing for the mandate. States are likely going to challenge the mandate as it relates to business requirements.

Here is a list and link to all the California wildfires. We have to keep praying for some relief. The good news is the Dixie, and Caldor fires are over 50 % contained but more needs to be done. Sadly a firefighter from the Dixie fire succumbed to illness. (no other details)

The Taliban released a flight with about 30 Americans and 170 others on Thursday. This was the first release of stranded citizens and friends since August 31st. Let’s hope it is the beginning of 100% success for those who want to leave. Let’s also hope that this release came without paying a ransom. (no one is talking about that right now)

Today’s JohnKu talks about keeping positive. I hope you all have a great weekend.

Who controls your mood?

Directing positive or not . . .

Look in a mirror.

Friday JohnKu – AKA TGIF

September 3, 2021September 2, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 54 Comments

“We doing sun bath today, Little One?”
“Yeah until Dad starts using the ladder.”
“He doesn’t make much noise.”
“He does when he falls off.”
“Good point.”

Another Friday has graced us with its presence. So good to see you Friday, you looker you. Have a seat. Soon it will be the weekend,, and we thank you for leading us there.

We all have to send prayers to those affected by Hurricane Ida. Having survived Harvey, I can tell you it will be a rough road ahead for everyone. Also, our friends on the East Coast are having their challenges with the rain resulting from the storm. Our hearts go out to them as well.

The thirteen Marines killed during the withdrawal from Afghanistan landed at Dover Air Force base. We pray their families will at some point come to some element of peace knowing they are back. I also hope there will be some justice for those responsible for these deaths. I applaud both sides of the Congressional aisle who are demanding answers. Since the administration wants to move the Afghanistan story off page one as soon as possible, I hope those with conscience keep asking for a detailed account of what caused such a mess.

Some politicians are crowing that the withdrawal was a big success since over 100,000 people were evacuated. I tend to think about the 10% of American citizens who are still trapped in the country and, of course, the thirteen who gave their lives. Yeah, call me old-fashioned,, but success would have been no lives lost and 100% of our citizens saved.

Texas finished the meteorological summer with the coolest weather in 13 years. Our temperature was down for the three-month period by 0.58 degrees, and we only had four 100 degree days. So we will have to see what September has in store.

Today’s JohnKu talks about the weather (What else?) I hope you have a wonderful Weekend.

It takes one who knows,

To guide us through the weather . . .

Or just flip a coin.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

August 27, 2021August 26, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 68 Comments

“Hey, Dad. You need any help?”
“No thanks. I think I can handle it.”
“When’s dinner then?”

Another Friday is here, and we can all give thanks. We can look forward to a weekend of rest.

This was a busy week all around. I am glad to report I have made some headway on my WIP. The one additional day of not blogging has opened up some valuable time, and I have put it to good use. When my book is finished, I will be returning to Wednesday Story Day because, quite frankly, I miss the characters that come out of such an endeavor. So stand by since one day it will happen.

It is very hard not to comment on the developments in Afghanistan. The latest polls show the President’s handling of the pullout not meeting favor with the public. I noticed the German government has promised the Taliban hundreds of millions in aid to allow its citizens to leave. This starts a journey on a very slippery slope in which the Taliban can begin to auction off groups of people that a country might see as vital. Of course, Biden was asked by the German’s to extend the date, and so far, he has refused. This sets up the possibility for the Taliban to do what it does best; hold hostages for ransom. Since I don’t want to get political, I’ll leave it there. I just believe Americans expected much more than the humiliation we see in Afghanistan. Now that there has been one bomb explosion at the Kabul airport, I hope it doesn’t get worse.

It was good to see the FDA give final approval to the Pfizer vaccine. Now maybe some holdouts will feel more comfortable getting a jab. It is hard to believe the number of cases of COVID that are being reported. School districts here in Texas are closing for up to ten days. Gotta hope for some relief.

Today’s JohnKu talks about looking on the bright side of things to cope with too much bad news. I hope you have a super weekend.

When the news seems dark,

Think of the bright side of it . . .

We are all still here.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

July 30, 2021July 29, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 100 Comments

“Boss. Twiggy keeps running away.”
“Isn’t that what tag is all about?”
“Not when one gets older it isn’t.”
“You’ll be fine. Go get her.”

It is Friday again and the beginning of that period of rest that we all need. I hope your week went well.

We all learned that the CDC issued some revised guidelines for mask-wearing. They advise mask-wearing even if fully vaccinated in public places, indoors in those areas where there is a high and substantial level of Covid transmission rates. This covers about 225 million Americans or about 63% of the population. So if your area has between 50 and 100 new cases per 100,000 population or a positivity testing rate of 8% to 10%, then you are in a substantial to high transmission rate area.

Also, the CDC is recommending those school-age children in grades K through 12 wear masks when they go back to school. This has caused so much confusion in the school districts here in Texas. The governor issued a directive that school districts and communities are not allowed to mandate mask-wearing, so at best, any decision on masks has to be an advisory position. Texas shares the no-mask mandate with Arkansas, Florida, Iowa, Montana, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Makes your head spin.

We also learned this week that eating foods high in flavonoids can help beat cognitive decline. To all you youngsters out there, this knowledge has little relevance. To we old codgers, what it means is all the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, red cabbage, onions, peppers, kale, parsley, black tea, oolong tea, green tea, wine, chocolate, soybeans, and citrus, that we have consumed is keeping our cognitive abilities from diving into the dirt. This was a study done over a 25 year period with 75,000 participants, and results were published in the American Academy of Neurology journal. So keep eating and drinking that stuff, and if you are not eating or drinking it, you should start.

Today’s JohnKu talks about cognitive decline. I hope you have a super weekend.

To protect the brain,

Flavonoids are wonderful . . .

Give me some more wine.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

July 23, 2021July 22, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 97 Comments

Twiggy and Lucy — “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.

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF

July 9, 2021July 8, 2021 ~ John W. Howell ~ 102 Comments

Lucy and Twiggy — “What does the word ‘Friday’ mean Lucy?”
“That the workweek is over I guess.”
“Or that the ruckus week is just beginning.”
“That too. You are it.”

Friday came just in time for me. I have pushed myself so hard since the 5th of July I need another weekend off. I hope you know that I’m kidding. I think I’ve been reading too many Twitter trending tweets.

I saw an article that stated in June, 100% of the COVID deaths in Maryland were among those who were not vaccinated. So I can imagine that would be some wake-up news for those who are still not there. But, of course, some are opposed to being vaccinated, and maybe the news won’t wake anything.

Our county has reached 70% of the population receiving one shot. Looking forward to the time where 70% of the population has had two shots. I have real fear for those not vaccinated as the new variants are beginning to take hold. Also, it will be interesting to see where the case count goes after the Fourth of July weekend. That will be in another week.

Today’s JohnKu talks about getting vaccinated and why not. I hope you all have a safe and restful weekend.

Is it politics?

Maybe a religious fear . . .

Why not? A puzzle.