I quite unexpectedly missed an event last week due to an unforeseen circumstance. I called the host the next day to more fully explain my absence and apologize. While on the phone we chatted about the event.   In discussing the event he mentioned an off-color comment one of the guests made. I quickly responded, “That’s offensive.”  His response was “Is it though? Maybe she meant this. . . “  I told him that was a generous view of the comment.  

In the last two weeks, my daughter made us proud again.  A few months back, I shared how Marisa placed an op-ed and State Senator Toby Stavisky called me to advise she is sharing that commentary with her colleagues.   Earlier this month, the legislation Marisa wrote in support of passed the State Legislature.

It's true, elephants know where to shop. In Thailand this week, one named Plai Biang Lek casually wandered into a grocery store. Surveillance and social media videos show the elephant strolling in, as if he had a shopping list, calmly stopping at the counter, and helping himself to nine bags of sweet rice crackers, a sandwich, and some dried bananas.  

Maggie Olive Klein, daughter of my son David and wife Julie, is my second born grandchild and first female in my line.  When my mother first set eyes upon her she excitedly exclaimed (at her look alike) "Who does she look like?"Oft times, I greet Maggie exclaiming "Who does she look like?" In recognition and memory of my beautiful mom.  

Juneteenth. Realizing the significance of the day - and that it has finally received the appropriate official national recognition it deserves - I search for its meaning to me.Do we take freedom for granted?

As we all come out of Father's Day weekend, I wanted to share a thought about "family".  I have come to realize, (with much reminding by my wonderful partner Stewart) that family is not just blood relations.

We had such a nice Father’s Day weekend.  It started with a “surprise” visit from our son and his fiancé, continued with lots of family time and a super great gift from our daughter (hint – there is a Dad Joke theme in my house).  And of course, lots of good food.  It ended with an annual family gathering we have been enjoying for more years than I can count.

Our cable tv went out last Tuesday morning. We did not even notice it until 11:00 p.m. when we went to turn on the local network news.   Our cable company’s response time was, surprisingly quick. They determined that it was probably the box and sent a new one via overnight mail.  The cable, however, was still not working after we installed the new box. So, we have a technician coming on Tuesday.