Hi everybody! It’s been a couple of weeks. Summertime is busy. Since last blogging I have helped with our church’s VBS, and I travelled a little: first to Charlotte to go to the Tim McGraw & Jon Meachen Book Tour event with my daughter & SIL, and then on to Raleigh to spend a bit of time with my other daughter and the cutest twin grandsons ever!
So, what to post about today?
I know there are those of you out there that really wish Marla would just get over the fact that Trump is our president and just move on. You wish I would stop posting about him. Right? Some of you think I’m losing my marbles and I have gone over the edge – or top – or wall (meant as a joke. I haven’t lost my sense of humor.)
I know as people age they sometimes turn their thoughts to the ‘bigger picture’ of our country and world. Young people are busy making ends meet and raising a family. They are running here and there. Calendars are full. Politics is not a big topic of conversation in their homes. I was the same way. I was busy!
I don’t think I really turned my attention to the news and the events going on in our country until my girls got into high school. I joined a neighborhood bridge group and we were very social. We were all ladies and we talked about everything! Yes – Including politics. Back then I was the minority at the bridge table when it came to discussions about our president at the time, and our needs in the country, and how we should help the disenfranchised. It really hasn’t changed much. ha
Last evening was the first night of the Democrats running for president debating each other. It really was an introduction to some of them. I liked the format – with quick response time. Little fighting allowed. I think ALL displayed confidence and handled themselves with dignity (something that has been lacking lately.) I think it was good to hear their agreement on many of the subjects, subjects that I care about… immigration, inclusion, gun control, and the US dealing with other world leaders. A lot was covered quickly. Tonight is the rest of the slate… and I am looking forward to seeing how each of them handle themselves. At this point I am still a fan of Mayor Pete – but I am open to hear what the others have to say.
Next week is Independence Day and it’s a fun party time at our riva place. But, it’s also a time to be reflective about our country, who we are, how big we are, and how we got to this point. You may not believe it, but I’m very hopeful for our future. I think we are in a valley right now. But because of where we are I see people coming to attention. I see people speaking up, and realizing that the ‘silent majority’ can not stay silent right now. We can’t let positive changes fall away… and we can’t lose our humanity. Love will win! We ARE a country where most of us want all people to do better – to live the American dream.
Other news: I’m trying to catch up on some TV viewing. I’m still a fan of “The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” and I am working my way through the shows. Hubby and I just got into the series “You are Dead To Me.” Anyone else watching it? Oh my. So funny, and sad, and quirky – great acting and writing.
I’m reading “Educated” by Tara Westover right now. I’m halfway through and I’ve got to say I don’t think it’s quite as gripping as “The Glass Castle” – both books about real life disfunctional families with parents who live outside of society’s norms. I will keep reading in hope it gets a bit better.
Daughter and I having been talking about how best to take two 20 month olds on a long road trip. We want to bring them to Northern Ohio in a couple of weeks. We plan on breaking the 12 hours up into 2 days, allowing for stopping times for meals and play – and diaper changing. It will be the boys first overnight in a hotel room. We are trying to think of it as a ‘challenge’ and are trying NOT to have expectations. But, I would love to hear anyone’s helpful hints for the adventure. Yes, we plan to have Sesame Street and Paw Patrol videos. One of us can drive, one can sit between the boys – and read to them, keep pulling out toys, etc. They have never been good car sleepers – even when very little. Should we give them some Benadryl? I’m kidding… sort of. Lol
Our riva house improvements continue. The new master bedroom will be done and ready for furniture in it next week. Next: the added master bathroom and another closet. We have selected the bathroom vanity, cabinets, shower, toilet, etc. The pieces are arriving now and we are storing it all in the garage. Also to come: a new “Carolina room – dining area” – and then a completely updated kitchen. It’s definitely a long term project.
How’s your summer going so far for you? Do you have major projects going on? Do you have a big vacation or trip planned?
And, how about summer eating? I need to start buying the fresh tomatoes out there, and strawberries for shortcake, and corn on the cob. I want to enjoy warm weather foods!! We plan to have a Carolina ‘Lowcountry boil’ on the 4th of July.
So… Happy summer days to you! Whatever you do, don’t STOP enjoying! Don’t stop caring about your world. Don’t stop finding something good to do every day!
See you here next time.
Marla’s Musings 