Venezuela

I’m watching far too many people celebrating as if the objections to the outcome of the rigged election had already liberated that country. Sadly, this is a tune we have seen before. For all the unrest and for all the countries and organizations denouncing the election, Maduro is still in power.

Keep in mind that there are elements of Quds, Wagner, and others in Venezuela and they are not likely to just sit idly by and let Maduro be easily swept away by a mere election. Keep in mind that there are thousands (hundreds of thousands even) of Venezuelan gang members and a number of males of military age beyond that here in the United States — and one wonders (cough, cough) what they may be up to.

So far, Maduro is arresting opposition leaders at all levels (failure to protect them has been a huge weak spot for the opposition from the start). For all that some gangs, military, and LE have gone over to the opposition, it’s not been a huge amount nor has anything truly meaningful been done with it. How many tanks and weapons were distributed from the base taken the other day? Hmmmm?

It is likely to get bloody, nasty, and unless some brains and backbone start showing up in opposition leadership, it will either be the usual capitulation by the opposition or a bloody slog that is likely to spill over into the U.S. courtesy of all the illegal immigrants/infiltrators. I’m hoping that the opposition gets smart and operates smart and that Maduro does fall quickly. I’m expecting the slog. I fear very much this will be yet again a failure by the opposition to do anything truly meaningful and effective resulting in Maduro remaining in power. Hope I’m wrong, but buckle up as whatever happens there is likely to be reflected darkly here.

UPDATE I: Meant to add this at the start, but over on X someone pointed out that this is not a fight between freedom loving types and evil commies. Rather, it’s more a fight between different sects of socialists/communists and while you could do analogies to Trotsky/Lenin, I think the Chinese and the multiple sects there may be a better analogy. It’s also one reason I suspect the major opposition has mostly been operating with gloves instead of (much needed) bare knuckles or even a horseshoe in the glove…

Again, be prepared. Keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Biden Out

Quelle Surprise. If it truly was a surprise to you, I have a bridge for sale… Heck, I’ll throw in the troll for free!

I don’t think this could have been pulled off in the White House, because of the scrutiny, visitor logs, and number of people present. As it is, we have a resignation letter that appears to be digitally signed, no sign of the person signing it, no press conference, no nothing. As for the people complaining it is not on Presidential letterhead, keep in mind that his re-election is not part of his Presidential duties and in fact has to be kept separate.

What is going to be interesting is to see when, or if, Biden goes back to the White House. With family members (and others) talking about health issues including hints of a terminal disease, and all sorts of speculations going on, one wonders. When you consider this from Francis Turner, one does wonder if he is not already metaphorically, at least, in the fridge.

The few weeks will tell a lot of what has happened. As I noted before, I suspect some offers that can’t be refused were made. If pardons and related (sweetheart deals) suddenly pop up in regard Hunter and others, it will not be surprising. What would be surprising is if they don’t, as for all that quite a few in DC would be willing to let the Biden family metaphorically hang, such would quickly expand to implicate (or at least inconvenience) others. As such, pardons and deals are the cleanest way to go openly. Also, I expect some sort of sinecure for Jill. Expect some sweetness and light, for now at least.

Nor do I think Trump is in the clear. Yes, he did survive the first attempt. Not so minor miracle when you think about it. His survival and his response have catapulted him quite high. Which is why if I were him I would be looking to hire the mythical Griswold Security and be asking for the Gunny himself to oversee my security (metaphorical glass raised to toast the late, great, L. Neil Smith). Given all that is coming out about the attempt (which is a story unto itself), only a fool would trust the Praetorian Guard or the Stasi with their life and safety.

Buckle up, the fun has truly yet to begin. The elites (on both sides) are so focused on domestic they are ignoring how this is playing outside of the country — especially with those who have less than tender feelings for us. Cough. They get a vote too, and don’t forget about things like this. People are desperate and desperate people do desperate things — and I’m not just talking about people overseas. For all that people are trying to paper over it (all puns intended), this is just a bit of a Constitutional crisis. Who has the biscuit and who is really running things?

Prepare, and choose any vacation spots wisely. Heck, if anyone wants to get me storage pails off my wish list, or donate funds so I can stock up, please feel free. Hope you are starting to be prepared, or are topping off if you already were.

Speaking of which, thank you to the anonymous donor who just was very generous! I’m putting part of that towards the guitar lessons since by paying a lump sum up front I get a “free” lesson added in. May see about doing some video soon as my homework with lesson three includes openings to Tom Dooley, Ghost Riders, and Wipeout. And I sound about as bad with those as you might expect for only being on lesson three. Jury is still out on truly learning how to play, but having a lot of fun. Thank you all.

So, the ride is just starting to get bumpy. Hang on, as it is likely to get wild unless more sanity breaks out that I think is possible. Be prepared. Keep your family and friends close. Keep your things where you can find them in the dark.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Biden Has Covid

So, after doing events in crowded areas including at least one restaurant, Biden was found to have tested positive for COVID. As a result, he is self-isolating at home in Delaware, rather than at the White House where he is near Walter Reed and other facilities at need.

The very cynical part of me wonders about this. Timing is almost too good, coming on the heels of his saying that if the docs told him he needed to drop out he would. And on top of Chuckie and others delivering messages about dropping out.

If I’m being darkly cynical, one might see it as Ol’ Yeller being taken back behind the barn. Yes, a doctor can and does travel with him. Yet, in DC he has access to a top-flight clinic in the White House, Walter Reed, Bethesda, etc. etc. etc. (</Yul Brenner voice>). But, the man who had trouble getting up the low stairs on AF1 is going to Delaware.

If you are deeply, darkly, coldly cynical, one might even wonder if Jill and/or Hunter got made an offer. Perhaps one that could not be refused even.

Or, it could just be an elderly man in declining health with multiple jabs getting a bug. It happens.

Me, I just said a prayer for him. I also wonder if the DNC convention will go as currently planned. Especially if the reports of the roll-call vote to make Biden the formal candidate is indeed being delayed. Time will tell.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Quick Thoughts On Fights & Protection

Sorry for the lack of posting, but life has been interesting. Mostly in good ways, as still processing the unexpected news from last week. The heart is good. Associated issues (hypertension, etc.) are still there. The body, well, that’s a different story. Trying to get some more medical lined up, and also having to verify that my insurance is good and will remain in effect. Just love paperwork…

Yesterday (I think) I posted on X about abject stupidity and breathtaking incompetence being indistinguishable from malice. Which leaves me with a bit of a quandry as I can’t quite believe either and am leaning towards embracing the healing powers of the word “and” in this regard.

Yes, I have helped do security, physical and other, including being close in. If you are close in, your entire job is to play bullet sponge and protect the package. If things go well your armor will keep you alive. If not, too bad, what matters is keeping the package alive. I could get into zones and such, but I figure most of you can guess that I do have at least some clue on the subject.

I’ve held off saying a whole lot for now, as this needed at least 72-hours and not 48. Problem is, it really doesn’t matter if it was malice or just DIE-inspired breathtaking incompetence and abject stupidity. Again, I’ve begun leaning towards “and” being operative here. Regardless, Mayorkas and the entire senior leadership of the Secret Service need to go. At this point, they have willfully endangered the lives not just of Trump, but also RFK and others for political reasons. The more that comes out from the assassination attempt, the worse it gets for the SS, DHS, and even LE.

I may get into all the failures one day soon, but they are legion. From SS members appearing to hide behind Trump to a response that couldn’t clear a basic fence, this is beyond amateur hour. Diversity Inclusion Equity leadership and participation failed spectacularly at the only thing that matters: protecting the package.

If Trump is eliminated, or if the public even thinks he MAY have been eliminated, I don’t think it will be pretty. It’s the whole rheostat versus on/off switch thing, and those playing with the dial don’t have a clue what they are doing or what will happen. Only idiots (on every side) are stupid enough to want such to happen. Those of us who have seen the world a bit, and studied history, have a clue and want to avoid such.

Which also gets into the calls for a new Munich by the Chamberlin Brigade. Cancel culture is now coming for the progressive side, and the civility brigade is all a dither at the horror of the “new rules” being done to “average people” on the left.

You know what? It’s not nice. It’s not pretty. It’s not the best of the best. It is, however, necessary. For long years, those anywhere to the right of Lenin (and mostly “average people”) have had their lives destroyed, families and friends threatened and attacked, and worse by the progressive cancel and rage mobs. The progressive elements have cheered those attacks and destruction, be it on children or adults.

Until it is driven home on them, until they experience what they have cheered on others, they will continue to do it and gloat. Our Republic can’t survive living under two sets of rules where only one side is destroyed. To paraphrase their secular icon, make the enemy live up to their rules. They have to experience it and do so unto a level that they stop this dreck. It’s like rubbing a puppy’s nose in the puddle or mess until they get the hint.

I don’t particularly like it, and look forward to the day it is no longer needed. But if we are to destroy the evil that is cancel culture and the rage mob, it needs be done and those demanding the high road will achieve nothing but the destruction of liberty by their misplaced and misguided efforts. The progressives were warned what would happen, and that they would not like the new rules; but, they were convinced that the rule(s) never would apply to them. Again, and again, and again: until those rules do apply to them and it impacts them, things will not change. If we stop now, not only will they not change, they will get worse. That’s a discussion for another day, but to the Chamberlin Brigade/MoQ types, this is NOT a fair fight, if you are in a fair fight your tactics suck, and if you insist on trying to be noble, high-minded and fair right now you are guaranteeing the death of freedom of speech. Suck it up, hold your nose, and rub the puppy’s nose in it until the lesson is driven home. Hold them to their rules until the rules are changed for the better FOR ALL.

More soon. Be prepared. Keep your friends close and your things where you can find them in the dark.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Pray!

I got home from choir practice (they are foolish enough to have me training to join the choir/chorus/etc.), Vespers, and Matins, to the news that Donald Trump was almost killed in an assassination attempt. The photos and video of him in the aftermath are iconic. Sadly, at least one bystander was killed and at least one seriously wounded.

WHY WAS THAT ROOF NOT SECURED! WHY WERE THE WARNINGS A GUNMAN WAS ON THE ROOF IGNORED? WHAT IS GOING ON?

Yes, among the odd things I have done I have done PPD work. YOU FLIPPIN SECURE THE LINES OF SIGHT! Basic, textbook one-oh-one stuff. I get that they have been asking for augmented security/assistance and been denied by the Biden administration — just like RFK has been denied ALL protection. Are they really so stupid they don’t realize what will happen if either is killed?

Well, the answer to that is yes, they are that stupid. I’ve long said they will not let Trump live to take office. Really, they won’t let him live until the election. By the Grace of God, he survived tonight. If he is to survive further, I would recommend he ditch the SS, and hire the nastiest bunch of pros he can. If not for him, for his family.

To say I have a lot of questions is an understatement. May we have honest answers fast, for much depends upon it.

Meantime, pray. Pray for our Republic. Pray for the dead, and pray for the injured. May God’s mercy be upon them, and may God grant unto all that which is needed to meet the challenges in all aspects of the lives and souls involved. Pray. For if this goes the way it is headed, they know not what they unleash. May we all avoid that, and may God’s mercy be upon us.

That’s Not Good

By now, you’ve probably seen this story or similar about the missing NYPD uniforms, car markings, and other delights. Not sure about you, but I’m hearing from sources that NYPD is not alone. In fact, it sounds like this is far more widespread that anyone sane should like.

One of the things that I’m finding interesting is that not all the missing uniforms and such are in major cities. That said, the areas where they are missing seem to be in areas with interesting (and critical) infrastructure, military, industrial, or other. Worrisome that is, at least for me. That this is traveling via LE-member and related circuits, and is NOT being discussed by politicians or political leadership military, LE, etc. could well be speaking volumes.

What just happened in Russia could be the opening bell as it were. Given the large numbers of military aged Chinese, Muslims, and others from a variety of countries inimicable to the United States and the tenets of Western Civilization… Well, if you were the Chinese and wanted to prevent a U.S. response to an invasion of Taiwan or annexation of portions of the Philipines; if you were Iran and wanted to cripple the United States while setting yourself up as a significant/major nuclear power (not just regional); or if you were one of several others: what would you be doing different via our open Southern Border?

Even if the tsunami of military aged males (and tens of thousands of children being trafficked too) weren’t a real threat, look at what is happening with our economy. Look at the debt, look at the loss of the petrodollar, and more. There’s more beyond that, lots more, and the new Kristallnacht that is underway here and abroad is but one sign . None of the things is good of itself, and offers much worse in synergistic terms.

Stock up. Keep your eyes open, head on a swivel, and your things where you can find them in the dark. It’s not the end, but I doubt it is going to be fun. Keep your family and true friends close, and be careful out there. If you care to help me with some food and preparation, feel free to hit the tip jar.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Starship 4th Test Flight

Wow. What a flight! David Strom hits things on the head here, and I very much agree with his close: Elon Musk is a figure out of Heinlein. Love him or loathe him, he is making indelible changes on the world. From my viewpoint, most of those are good. Especially when it comes to getting us off this mudball.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to know and spend time with some interesting people, and to have done work for NASA twice. Today showed me several things I’ve been told were impossible, but I just watched them play out in realtime.

More years ago than I care to think about, Jerry and Roberta Pournelle took a callow young science writer under their wings. This led not only to interesting dinners but inclusion on several discussions of science and technology, often centering on spaceflight and heading out from Earth. Some discussions of such may have been a bit spirited, but it is interesting how they often led to investigation, experimentation, and change.

While my memory is not what I would like, I do seem to remember that Jerry was somewhat strongly of the opinion that landing rockets upright/vertical a la Golden Age science fiction was impossible. I’ve been watching SpaceX stick vertical landings on droneships for a while now and smiling. To be honest, think Jerry would be delighted at being wrong and seeing what is going on.

I’ve heard similar, but not nearly as spirited (and innovative) discussions at NASA at time or two. Then again, far too many there were wedded to the long, slow, expensive process at NASA. NASA is not only risk averse, but anything that smacked even slightly of failure was something never to be done again. NASA did not fail, it only succeeded — at great cost, lots of time, and one-off hardware. What Elon and SpaceX are doing is the best way to do real development: speculate, build, test, refine, test, refine, test, and then move out. Doing that is almost guaranteed to cut your development timeline by two thirds if not more.

Now, let’s look at all the pretty pictures, and even more importantly the massive amounts of data, that we got during reentry. Let me repeat that: DURING REENTRY. Another thing I was told at various times was impossible, beyond technical capabilities, etc. Never happen. Heh. Right. All made possible via Starlink and innovative thinking. If you think Elon’s companies aren’t meant to work together… I have suspicions about The Boring Company, which is anything but boring…

Now, when it comes to burnthrough the conventional wisdom was that pretty much any burnthrough was a catastrophic event. Even a pinprick spelled doom for a craft, and the idea that any external component or system that experienced such could function afterwards was nonsense! Nonsense I tell you Sir! Cough. Guess what I watched today? Heck, they invited some burnthrough by deliberately leaving off some tiles and putting sensors and such there because that data was needed. Not in a critical area, but still…

When the flap began to burn through, I kept expecting to see the rocket tumble and fail. Instead, I saw — even with the damage to the camera — the flap move and operate, and the ship continue to maneuver and function. That was amazing, and again I had been told impossible. I’m beginning to think Elon’s breakfast consists of multiple impossible things each morning.

Perfect mission? No, but an amazing success anyway. Right now, looks like they hit all the major goals, including getting massive amounts of data so they can improve and try again. In fact, a surface reading indicates that nothing that did go wrong requires the FAA to investigate and delay work on the next TEST flight according to the paperwork. That said, the Biden Regency hates Musk and has been trying to throw wrenches into the gears as they can, so I really do expect them to try to find a way to do so now. The offset to that is that the military and the Intelligence Community are now both having to back Elon given their dependence on SpaceX for reliable and cost-effective launches. That may reduce the interference. We can but hope.

As I’ve said before: Earth is the cradle of humanity, but crib death is still a thing and we need to be out on as many worlds — large and small — as we can as fast as we can. Even if not for survival per se, it is also a good idea for political survival. See Kotani and Robert’s Island World/Act of God series for the latter.

Right now, Elon and SpaceX are our best shot at getting that underway. We need them, so keep them in your prayers as there are a lot of people who want them to fail. Heck, need them to fail.

As far as living and working in space full time, think we still have some research to do. Some recent investigations into blood and other issues long-term for those in space raises some concerns. I’ve talked before about the issues with reproduction in space.

Which reminds me, the Chinese investigations underway with fish are a thing to watch. This could provide lots of good data not only on how they do in microgravity. This ties into issues of food in space and reproduction in space, and may be a good step towards ensuring safety on both fronts. I suspect that some gravity is going to be needed, but how much is the question. One that can be easily and fairly quickly answered at need.

That, however, is for the future. Right now, today’s test flight was amazing. Not only visually, but operationally and from the standpoint of gathering data.

Keep doing the impossible Elon and SpaceX! We need this more than most may realize.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Pray & Prepare

The verdict in the show trial of Donald Trump should surprise no one. It was a foregone conclusion from the start, and the antics of the “prosecution” and “judge” were farcical to the point of making Chinese, Soviet, and Nazi show-trail judges shake their heads. There was absolutely nothing fair, proper, or even legal about the proceeding.

Those telling you to respect the jury system, the rule of law, etc. are telling you exactly who and what they are, and who they serve on Earth and beyond. This is especially true for non-Democrats doing such. Make note of them and shun them, for they are not your friends, comrades, or allies.

Those gloating in the guilty on all counts verdict, even when none can tell you the crime committed other than Trump being Trump and winning the election, the same applies. They do not respect rule of law, our Constitutional Republic, and are happy to go watch any they consider their enemies die horrible deaths in the local arena for their pleasure and to remind the masses what fate awaits those who oppose the state.

Indeed, what we are seeing used to be the norm and while many are pointing out the similarities to the late Roman republic, you can see it in modern China and other countries where to lose power is to condemn you and your family to rather nasty deaths or slavery. It was one of the reasons why our Founders enshrined the peaceful transfer of power as a foundation of the Republic, and it was one of the first times such has worked for any length of time.

Undermining both the Rule of Law and a Justice (not legal) system, that was to be equal for all, kicks two crucial supports out from under the Republic. It’s been clear for a while we had a two-tier system of justice (if not further divided) and that the rule of law was dead — especially when it comes to individual liberty, individual property rights, individual right of self-defense… I could go on, but if anyone has missed the points made by Ruby Ridge, Waco, the extra-judicial murders of various online cranks (see here for one example of several) and those daring to exercise their second amendment rights (see also prosecution here where ‘the 2nd amendment doesn’t exist in my court rooom’), or even self-defense and the defense of others (see here for one example). Yes, I do mean to say extra-judicial murders: what else should one call it when raids are conducted with no-knock/no-announcement, at early or odd hours, only when target present, no body cameras, target cameras taped over, etc. in defiance of law and regulation? There are many more examples for you, and it is clear the ATF, FBI, etc. have taken the lessons of the KGB (and the Gestapo) to heart with early morning raids and the deliberate mistreatment of family and others even after killing their target. This was actually a good discussion on X about this yesterday.

In their ignorance and arrogance, those desperate to cling to power and corruption have chosen to do anything needed for that end. That they are sowing a wind that will reap them a whirlwind that could plunge the world into darkness (not hyperbole, but a subject worthy of more than one long post) does not even cross their minds. They foolishly believe they can control this, use this to create more J6-style detentions and trials, and cow the rabble into submission. They are at best fools, and we may all pay the price for it.

As for those who think they will stop with just fines or a slap on the wrist in this Trump trial, what makes you think that given all they have done they will go to half measures now? They are making an example to discourage anyone from challenging them again. I will be amazed if it is not the maximum possible sentence in prison. Further, as I mentioned here before, I told another writer almost two years ago that if Trump showed any possibility of winning or did win, that he would not live to take office. I fully expect that he, and his family, will be killed. Most likely by a deranged individual that has been encouraged if not aided to do exactly that ‘to save our democracy’. If you think this is too much, look back at all the mass shooters (and there is a trans connection there too) who were ‘known subjects’ to the FBI and other law enforcement. Seriously, go back to the Pulse nightclub shooting and move forward. Take a look at the knowledge and even relationships between them and LE. Coincidence?

Think that those currently in power won’t do something like that? History, including recent history, says different. The Biden Regency and others clinging desperately to power more than live up to Amb. Molari’s quote on arrogance and stupidity in one neat package. As I said above, they really do think they can control and use what is to come. I think them fools.

That said, the first thing I think we should do is pray. We need to pray for the Republic, we need to pray for guidance, and we need to pray for the worst not to happen for this could well set the world on fire (think Ukraine, China, ME, etc. where they want more endless wars) and plunge it into darkness for centuries. Worst case, but still a case I can make quite easily.

Last night, Sarah A. Hoyt brought up Psalm 7 on X. It is a good one to read right now. It is a good one to pray. Right now, especially with all the Fed Boi’s on social media working as hard as they can to get people to say or do stupid things so they can pull out the J6 playbook again, Prayer is the best thing we can do. Please don’t be stupid and fall for the provocations.

Second best thing we can do is prepare. In this case, not just with physical supplies, but mental and spiritual as well. Quickest way to prevent something is to plan for it, so plan for that worst case. In addition to food and such, tuck away in secure storage copies of Locke and the others who influenced the Founders of our Republic; copies of the books and textbooks from the late 1800’s to around 1910, for they covered history, philosophy, language, and more; tuck away books on how to do things, from how the Romans did plumbing to how the pioneers preserved foods and cooked; and, tuck away Christian writings including the Bible, for Progressives worship the state and loathe those who worship God. Remember, you will eat the bugs and wear the rags and like it, and you will not have any other god but them and the state. Prepare accordingly.

Worst case covered, plan for now. For all that I think every effort will be made to ensure a dishonest election, vote. Encourage others to vote. Vote as if your life and the lives and future of your family depend on it. Vote not for individuals (put not your faith in the princes of men), but for the Republic and those who will support and defend same. If you get a stupid law or order, malicious compliance is a thing. Even at great cost, fight any injustice done unto you and any effort to erode your rights and liberties. Document, turn Alinsky back on them and make them live up to their statements. They won’t, but that just makes it easier to document, point, and laugh and ridicule them. They can’t stand the latter, so make as much fun of them in as many ways as you can. They truly are ridiculous, so share it far and wide. When they do things (or are caught), point it out and do so in a way that makes people laugh at them. It truly is their kryptonite, though expect backlash and examples to be made of those who dare do it.

Now, some of you were already doing this step long before it became a thing, but look at the Benedict Option and how it can (still) be implemented. For all that I am not a fan of Mr. Dreher, he has pushed a good idea for people of Faith. Some of you have already done something similar, pulling together in communities with shared ideals and grouping together people with needed skills should things go towards the worst case. It is a good idea, and if I get the chance to move (once health assured) would love to join such a grouping.

All that said, and as far as the Republic has fallen, I still think we are not yet beyond repair and redemption. For a musical take, I think we are still On The Border in regards the opportunity to recover and restore the Republic. That said, I think we are rapidly approaching the point of The Story In Your Eyes and having to go from the ashes we can build another day. I really hope that we can avoid, for this or any other reason, needing to play Genesis Ch1, V32 as a theme song. If you need something to buck you up, I like Victory despite disagreeing with some of the lyrics. If you need something a bit more martial, may I suggest Preliator? I’m afraid, however, that some of us — even now — may end up needing to play Winterborn, but if so let those who do and those who remember them wear and remember their names with pride. For there will be martyrs created by those who seek power for themselves, their children, and grandchildren no matter the cost. Best is to put Faith into Prayer, and hope for the ballot box and the courts, despite the strong efforts underway to de-legitimize both.

So, buck up. It may not be easy or fun, but few worthwhile things rarely are such. Be prepared, keep your family and friends close, and your things where you can find them in the dark. Pray.

UPDATE: This is a good, if short, read on the Romans, looking forward to the promised parts to come. If you want good, first-hand history on China, show trials, and more, allow me to recommend Xi Van Fleet. As always, Stephen Green/Vodka Pundit, is doing some good work. One of several I think. Lot of good takes at Hot Air.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Memorial Day 2024

With the car as it is, not going to be able to do my usual trip to Oaken Barrel to buy a beer for the guys. I may see if I can get down to the Church later to say a prayer, already done one here at home. I plan to cook some hot dogs, enjoy a good beer, and celebrate their lives even as I honor their sacrifice. Please join me in remembering:

ENS Albert Foster Powers, MIA 1945 Japan
LCPL Bill Stelpflug, Beirut
COL Rick Rescorla, NY 9/11
SPC Ryan Dallam, Iraq
PFC Damian Lopez, Iraq
SPC Marieo Guerrero, Iraq
CPT Anthony Palermo, Iraq
SPC David Behrle, Iraq
SPC Joseph Gilmore, Iraq
PFC Travis Haslip, Iraq
SGT Jean Medlin, Iraq
SSG Christopher Moore, Iraq
PVT Alexander Varela, Iraq
LCPL Jeremy W. Burris, Iraq
SSG Brian Cowdrey, Afghanistan
MAJ Andrew Olmstead, Iraq
CPT Carroll LeFon, CONUS

Thank you Lord that such men lived, and heeded the call to protect and defend. We are all the richer and the better for them and their brothers and sisters who lived the words “No greater love…” You are remembered. You are not forgotten. You are missed. God Bless.

Eclipse

Meant to do something yesterday, but got distracted. It was absolutely amazing to be in the path of the totality, and I am thankful I got to see it. I seem to recall being more on the edge of the path when much younger, but it was cloudy and we really couldn’t see anything. Got a bit dark(er) for a bit, birds went to roost, and then we went back to normal cloudiness.

For a bit, I was afraid we would have our fairly normal spring low clouds, which would have blocked it. Instead, we had some high thin clouds that may have added to it. My landlord bought a bunch of glasses so everyone could watch it, and we set up camp out in the front yard for the show. Yes, I did smoke the last good cigar I had, and enjoyed a small glass of brandy with the view. My camera being dead, I didn’t really try for much in the way of photos as I wanted to concentrate on the view itself.

To call it amazing is an understatement. As a writer, it pains me a bit to admit that words are not truly up to the task of describing the event. To watch the moon inch it’s way across the sun, and the radiant glory when it fully covered it, is something I think is truly impossible to describe.

In that few moments of totality, night fell. The birds went to roost and into silence. There was no traffic on our normally busy street. The only sounds were those of awe from everyone out watching it. The streetlights came on, and everyone still looked up, watching. It was a timeless moment of beauty and glory.

When the sun started to return, so did normal life. Some of the birds sounded a bit confused but quickly went back to daylight mode. The streetlights went off, and the people went back inside or to regular life.

What did you see? I remember this from childhood. To the moon!

I did try for a couple of photos on the phone, but not too hard as I much preferred just to watch. The best one is at the top.

If you were fortunate enough to see it, good! If you get the chance to watch one, take it! I am grateful I lived long enough to see this one.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, which include moving once we have medical issues cleared up, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.