11/30/21 Tuesday 8am St. James mass/rosary Thaddeus, lifeguard re my swim cap, lemonade stand Beverly hills, 9am to 1 fed ex office Xmas cards ready, called assurance talked to Joy in Philippinesvery enjoyable conversation, she's a Christian, not catholic, very intelligent and aware of what's happening around the world, she's home schooling her children, I promised to pray for her. She helped me with hotspot access. Tether is now working. #PrayTheMovies: “Clifford Big Red Dog”, clerk called me brother, paramount pic, not animated? Partially animated. Dog only. Dog catcher. They missed the red pup. Harlem. “She calls me food stamp.” Honeycomb cereal. British mom, were you ever a child? Meter expired. man living in box truck, Clifford starts roaming, Casey Porter illustrate job funny, magic school good luck, uncle Casey baby sits, cheerio rubbish, mc looks like Laura Ingalls, central park, collecting cans for school, animal rescue, dog in backpack, 745 in morning?. Pray for Joy in the Philippines, "I smell dog. You are a super super.”
#PrayTheMovies: “Encanto” in 3D each child is a magic gift, "looting term used for urban dwellers?” Looting? Looting social justice, peaceful protests. Trigonometry they don’t have an agenda except the truth. 491 windmills equals 1 power plant, weak frail cognitive. They’ve propped up Biden like a puppet. Bruno. Miracle, Encanto is it too late for a miracle / who is Bruno /? Thank God for persecution" (A Jones, operation Tiger) The girl with a storm cloud over her head. 1st corona virus jan21 2020, Fauci gain of function, 2nd vision, you must embrace, Isabella sister, #PrayTheMovies: family reconciliation. Back up the hill PV lib dictation 12/1 December 2021 830 am walk PV , 930 PV lib homeless Asian man peeing in the bushes --family walks past him as if they don't even notice. Warm morning, low cloud, see Catalina peaks only, dictation at PV complete.
12/2/21 Thursday very dizzy--everything spinning at 3 am. I awoke and sat up & everything was spinning --I felt dizzy & lightheaded, could not even remain sitting up, laid back down fell back asleep-scary moment. I thought maybe I had caught a dose of covid finally, but around lunchtime as I was trying to cook a meal on my portable stove I noticed my can of butane was empty even though it should be almost full. I realized that somehow the switch had gotten stuck on and it drained the butane during the night as I was sleeping right next to it--all windows closed. That explains everything. Could have been deadly I suppose--not sure -- tried to research the subject-- it's definitely not good-- not sure if actually deadly-- maybe brain damage though. --either way I call it a "near death" incident. Drove to Garden Grove, still managed to donate blood at 8am. Domonique at blood center not so good. Seemed like a prima donna. Started telling me about getting a job as a firefighter-still waiting for security clearance. Then the gal who unhooked me was a jerk too. They let me sit there for several minutes. I made a complaint later on. Never saw either of them again, thank goodness. Shopped at Walmart after blood donation. Still a bit woozy from the butane. Garden Grove library--don't come here much anymore. There's a nice duck pond here. And for the first time I noticed an exercise area next to the community center. Right next to the covid clinic station where I get a free covid test after library. Then I go around to the various stations and do a little outdoor workout.
#PrayTheNews: Supreme Court re Roe V Wade (pray4 the unborn), pf. Domonique. After Garden Grove drive across town to Costa Mesa for evening mass at John Baptist Catholic --been coming here for many years now. The lead priest Augustine is a pretty good guy from Wisconsin. A few others not so great. One is very supercilious. 12/3/ Friday morning mass at JBAP 830 am --they're back indoors now. The good priest is leading the service today. 930 am stop at McDonalds for an Ice Tea. Their self-serve soda fountain is open again. Heard about deal for a .37 cent whopper at Burger King--and managed to download the app and complete the order--and drove
down the street to BK for a whopper at 1030 am --gave a dollar tip. Whoppers are pretty good. 1130 am Newport Beach library-working on NEW QR central blog --associated with AmeriPrayer I am creating QR codes for every single blog, also edit CBF blogs 330 pm, then 530 OLQA, 12/4/21 Saturday 830 am OLQA, guy walked up to me asking if I had an air compressor said he just got a flat tire but didn't want to put on a spare. I said sorry no. He walked away. Seems like I've noticed his car before. Something seemed out-ofplace. He also was dressed like a chef. Creepy stare man after restroom, plus lady in back-- she always mentions "Woodward & Bernstein" during prayer request time. Somebody is putting up the Xmas tree outdoors. 930 am stop at fed ex office -- printed the QR codes to add to Xmas Postcards. Cool day bit of sun, 10am back at NBPL working on CBF blogs-- so many, checking the width and fonts etc. Baylor defeats OK State (close game to the last play). Now Alabama defeats #1 Georgia 41-24 (they will play again in the National championship. Will anything change?) Later, Michigan demolishes Iowa 42-3 to win the Big 10 championship. But Michigan will get blown out by Georgia 34-11 in the orange Bowl BCS game.
12/5 Sunday 830 mariners are now having an inside and outside worship option., 1030 St. John Neumann Irvine (haven't been here since they were worshipping outdoors in the parking lot)) 11:15 ralphs grocery bread & cheese & water, also passed by Shepherds Grove church (parking lot full. Are they growing?) 12:15 to 3:15 NBPL complete CBF blog updates, everything should be up to date, better widths & fonts, layout, feeds, labels, etc. QR Xmas cards progress adding "hope all is well.” These cards take about a month to complete 20 by hand-- you can only do so much at a time with the colors and large print. #PrayTheNews: sports: Lions defeat Vikings on final play-- their 1st win of the season. That's a low blow for Minnesota who should have done better this year. Buccaneers win, Chargers win. 12/6/21 Monday 8am mass OLQA, leaving NB southward, do laundry in Capistrano/Dana. MNF Patriots defeat
Bills, Prayer Vis; AZ/CA white couple, swim Encinitas, 2pm blood donation- 1st time here. 12/7 Tuesday 8 am mass at Borromeo church by liberty station $3 coffee thru Ocean beach to La Jolla. It's drizzling as forecasted. #PrayTheNews: remember Pearl Harbor 80th. 2 ospreys on pole by Sea World. People have such a strong need to categorize others, esp. the less education/more ignorant--the more they need categories which make them dangerous when they encounter something not in their box of categories-- at which point they become fearful--may do or say something rash. They actually become dangerous in word or deed like BH boy, or laundry boy, and it forces us to change ourselves to appease their ignorance-- drags us all down to the lowest common denominator. #PrayTheMovies: "Wolf": notes: man crawling in forest thinks he's a wolf. It’s a mental institute where people think they are animals "species identity disorder.” One of them looks like Ed Durkin, somebody I knew from Chaminade University. The female lead character is the daughter of Johnny Depp-- definitely looks like him too. Left early, boring.
#PrayTheMovies: Moved over to “The Chosen" Christmas movie "Go tell it on the mountain" . Is Phil Wickham mildly autistic? Jordan Feliz one voice children’s choir "What child is this?" Brandon Lake Gratitude? Matt Maher "Hark the Herald.” Is this an LDS production? Bonner Family 'how great thou Art" 1st Noel maverick city music. "Wonderful" by Cain. La Jolla Library. They moved the computers out to an open area. "Breath of Heaven" by Leanna Crawford? The end of the film is a narration of the birth of Jesus, sort of. 12/8/21 Wednesday 815 mass Solana, St. James/Leo, school day very full left early, Solana library 10am, added link to QR central for AmeriPrayer 1 & 2, King of Blog for King of God (kingdom of), and several alternate links for maps, reel prayer, and #PrayerBooks, as well as storyboards, after Solana 130 swim at Encinitas, nice lag there, 230 Encinitas library --all the SD county libraries close at 4pm now-- so freakin early. They really turned belly up after covid.
12/9/21 Thursday 8 am blood donation. Gal will be Indio manager pretty soon, 10 am Pt Loma library to 2pm QR blog & storyboard 1 & 2, For the Kingdom 1 & For the Kingdom 2, added link to storyboards on Drives as well, changed titles from "Mega" to “storyboard. “Been raining all day & night 12/10 Friday 930 to 1130 Coronado library edit & dictation, 1230- 33 imperial beach library more storyboard progress, 8am Immaculate conception Old Town 12/11 Saturday 8 am Immaculate Conception (cold, see breath waking up). In general, if it's 45 or less you can see your breath (depending on humidity etc.). Sunny blue sky now. I still feel lightheaded periodically ever since the butane incident. 930 Kearny mesa library by airport turned out to be closed --not sure why. Security guard not clear-- maybe budget? Go to Walmart instead 1030, then back to Encinitas around 1230 --the SD county libraries are closed on Saturdays too. Work on Xmas cards from 130 to 330. 4pm St. John church.
12/12/21 Sunday Slept near Sea World. 9am Presbyterian Pt Loma- love the architect here. 2nd time attending. 1030 Park Hill Church- this is a popular gathering--the pastor is the brother of Phil Wickham, his name is Evan. Not sure if Evan has any musical propensities as well. 1230 almost went to Captivate church but parking too difficult. 130 mission beach swim. Junior surf contest in progress. 530pm over to the Catholic Church in Pacific beach--used to come here occasionally -- my presence this time seems to cause a stir amongst the local deacons. It's these deacons who often grow up in the church that can be a pain sometimes. They have a sense of entitlement/ownership. So they see some people as a threat rather simply a person attending the service. It's animal instinct in some of them, rather than spiritual. LOMP - Loma ocean mission pacific (south to north) 12/13/21 Monday 7am blood $55, 9 am Vons -power outage just as I stepped up to the self-checkout, cloudy day-- great grilled cheese. Nice Xmas party at Pt Loma Library-- I could hear the Xmas music playing for the kids. But don't like some of the
security guards here. Not sure why they think they need them at every San Diego library. Made storyboard progress.
#PrayTheNews: sports: Rams defeat Cardinals. 12/14 Tuesday refill water bottles. Will be rainy all day. North Univ Library 1130 pouring rain. Big puddles. #PrayTheNews: Kentucky tornado kills 60 #PrayTheMovies: Westside Story, clearing out the NYC slums with wrecking ball. Old bathtubs, sinks, graffiti, gangs. paint cans, choreographed dancing, cops arrive, white boys the jets versus rival gang Puerto Rican sharks "I’m scared of myself" you were upstate, here's Maria with cross on neck, tranquillo, big dance at school-then a fight. The white guy angers Puerto Rican for liking his sister. "Speak English" Sharks vs Jets. Rita Moreno, "He's a Pollock.” "You’re crazy" see Pelosi text message -- repubs need to subpoena the Pelosi texts. "You are not my boss”, one looks like Tony Priest. All the clothes hung out to dry. Where's the rumble? Switchblades. He takes Maria to a museum. Are you "packing heat" 15 years Attica. gimme the gun. Finally fights back. Knifed in heart. Cops arrive. 2 dead from knife fight. Colorblind society, blood worker, one looks like Elliot Vanderlugt. Yo No Soy Americano. Yo Soy Rico. "Geno shot Maria, She's dead" no he didn’t. Geno kills tony -shoots him in the back. Yes he did. La Jolla library-- special eventdropped in for a few minutes-- re climate change- a bit ridiculous.
12/15/21 Wednesday slept in La Jolla 8 am mass at St. Mary Star of the Sea, 930 La Jolla library, 1230 storyboard, and new CA mask mandate coming again. Prayer Vis: all black La Jolla 12 AMC 2nd time in RR- SAME bl guy, strange. Rita at blood (a bit ornery), homeless with cart at Immac Conception (also not good), lady dude & thanks for coming not so good either at Del Mary library 130-330. Afterwards took walk on beach - lots of dogs. After del mar scenic drive la jolla , bird rock, pacific beach, sea world, 12/16 Thursday 630 am blood, 8 am immaculate conception old town, university library 930 to 1053 , got too noisy as elitist with wife talked loudly to library as if nobody else existed- a virtue signal
conversation. I walked out after expressing my annoyance. As soon as I left they left. 12/17 Friday slept San Clemente 947 am 1st Xmas postcard to TT12 from Dana Point most of day at NBPL kingdom of blog , Reel Prayer, New Book of Prayer, AmeriPrayer (May 2020 to March 2021) add maps link also travel pics. 730 NB Xmas boat parade smaller than usual. F-word lady in computer lab.
#PrayTheNews: 33 killed Philippines typhoon. 12/18 Saturday 830 OLQA , Woodward & Bernstein lady loud again 9am NBPL added clickable pics to kingdom blog.NBPL -storyboard progress, Xmas card progress (need to add small QR’s as well), swim at CDM, very calm, briefly warm, 5pm OLQA, add this “my legacy” to Xmas cards at Kingdom Blog 12/19 Sunday 830 am mariners Irvine, Doug fields preaching, 1030 Neumann church, drive by good shepherd schuller church, 12 noon swim with fins (reactivated toe pain, remember I can only swim with fin on right foot in the future). back to NBPL Kingdom of blog progress QR kingdom, created cutting edge Xmas cards blog, almost OLQA 530.
12/20/21 Monday slept at GG , 7 am blood donation, tried to give $5 tip to Angeline (nice)- but she didn’t want it (maybe they’re not allowed to take tips?). Much better experience this time at blood donation didn’t see either of the 2 jerks. The guy from Czech is also better now. He immigrated from Czech –didn’t know any English upon arrival. He says they learned Russian as a 2nd language back in the day now they teach English. He speaks pretty good English now. Shop next door at Walmart- frozen lasagna is always good. Also Mahi Mahi. Exercise at GG. Back to NBPL after exercise. One fin swim overcast day. Much colder today freezing when I got out of the water, turned car on for heat for about 15 minutes. XMAS Card progress, scribd download progress Can only do 20 per day. OLQA 830 AM Bernstein lady showed up late does she always show up late? She’s still requesting prayers for the “Woodward & Bernstein family” – she’s been saying the same thing –like a script for 3 years now. Seems strange. The Watergate scandal uncovered
by Woodward & Bernstein was back in 1972? Is she mentally ill? 12 noon, #PrayTheMovies: at Regal University “Spiderman, No Way Home” (they remodeled this theatre, right next to UCI) black gal behind counter tried to charge me full price despite it being discount Tuesday. She kept treating me like a fool as I kept insisting on the discount Tuesday price. I left a review mentioning it. Hopefully management will notice it. Spiderman’s identity revealed. The public want peter parker arrested for child endangerment “you can’t hold us all here” stark industries. “No charges will stick” protestors. New house, ‘Am I being too pragmatic.” Back to school. What exactly did he do that they are all mad about? What did I miss? All 3 rejected for admission to MIT. snow mansion. “They shot an episode of the equalizer here .” New spell “they will all forget you were Spiderman.” He objects to all. So Dr Strange tries to change it mid-spell, not so easy. Something goes wrong. Invites the bad guys. “Please Scooby doo” an octopus, torture rack, Otto Octavius, I’m not your peter” wizard dungeon. Norman Osborne charade, new electric guy, Darby bugle … Alex jones..? JaneMichelle jones actually, Willem Dafoe, Peter stops strange from reversing the spell, the fabricator, somebody hates spiders, and Dafoe is a goblin?
#PrayTheMovies: DON'T BUILD the TOWER of BABEL. Cracks in back. Now there are 3 Peter Parkers. “Dressed like a cool youth pastor.” Tom Holland broke hose x2. I was in the Avengers. What’s the A band? Statue of Liberty. Black Spiderman? Parker is #1, spider kills Dafoe but Dafoe killed parker #2? (No they don’t die), new spell.. Back at coffee shop girlfriend doesn’t know who he is. New spell erases all memory ‘All will forget” (this time it works). Character looks like Joe Boeve. Jamie Foxx, Tobey Maguire. Post credit scene.
12/22/21 Wednesday: 830 OLQA 930 Lomas park terminated covid test because they weren’t there. The app was wrong. 1030 back at NBPL scanned Xmas cards. 11 to 1230 swim at CDM - a bit of
sunshine breaking thru. Signed up for covid test at different location this afternoon. Sent 1ST BATCH Xmas cards (Timmer, Redlands, Theule Wilkins) from CDM post office. Including #StraightPride #ProtectUnborn “Enjoyed Tetons, Yellowstone, glacier, cascades, Mt. Rainier” Kingdom of Blog , got covid test at Quail Park Irvine, also signed up for auto service with Good Samaritan (spoke with Sharon) 2nd batch of Xmas C sent at 315 from Bristol PO (heynen piers mae holwerda VG). Batch3 at 4pm from King Street USPS Santa Ana (including M Peters at B Ball “Don’t worry, don’t want any money” )5pm batch 4 Xmas to MacQuarrie & Engelhard from GG usps. 12/23/21 Thursday 7am blood donation. Angelina nice again. More Xmas C after donation to Barb W, Dieks, BrianJen, Pettinga, added “fellow Eagle Knights” and ‘Stock up on food. Be prepared” remembering great coaches: Vanderkamp, Frieswyk, Arnie Baker, and teachers: Boelema, Bokhoven, TenBroek, Stapert (RIP), Mereness, Gundy. Also on Barb card “You left GR so quickly–couldn’t develop relationship Can we laugh about it now?” also added “Because we know how much you care” to Diek card & EagleKnight-Maroons “How about Kirk Cousins!” , and to Brian Jen “Keep reading the Bible” plus “Camp Optimist, Edgelawn, Gulf Shores, Cobmoosa, Farrels Ice Cream Parlor, Eastbrook Mall (actually meant Woodlawn Mall), Campau Lake, Griswold, Betsy Bowman (added smiley face), Yesterdog (that’s for Audra, not sure Brian even knows about Eastown), Donny Hudson, Brian Tuttle, #StraightPride. Also added to Pettinga “Tell Cindy I’m not a bad guy.” And to Barb “Do you ever hear from the bad axis?” also “stock up on canned goods”, also added cross sticker. Also to Mandeville Teri. Sent from USPS holiday station Anaheim 1136 am. 130pm another Batch to Nyhuis, Sister Family, Clarksville from Brookhurst Center station USPS Anaheim (pouring rain). And now at3pm from Stanton PO, next batch to VandenBosch & Calvin English Dept “I did my best sir” & “remembering Brown, Kopple, Ericson, Kuyper, (all RIP) and still alive I think: Schmidt, Netland, Timmerman, & Baron. , now
615 pm at St. Bernard bellflower supposed to be an evening mass but all doors locked but I can see people inside. Strange. Passed by Chicago Ave. Later drove all the way to Los Feliz and next morning 9am at Griffith Park Observatory blue sky sun briefly. More Xmas cards: to Byles & DeKams from Los Feliz usps 10am added “remember good ol days; teachers, teaching Rick how to ski at Canonsburg, Millbrook, Seymour, Holland beach, Pando, saw article re ray hiking Appalachian in M.live, and “Are you going to Coachella again?” leaving Griffith park saw solo coyote casually strolling thru grassy area near the Greek Theatre not to scared of being seen apparently. Also noticed my C-test results came thru just around the time I was wondering if I would go to the Holiday show–need a negative covid test to be allowed in , so I got my negative test but then I went back to the holiday show website which a week ago said it was STILL ON now it said it was cancelled to spectators. Good grief. I did all the work to be allowed to attend and then they cancel at last minute. Should have figured.
Anyways, I drive over there figuring I will watch outdoors which they say you can do on the jumbotron.-- it’s always an inspiriting event , and so I did on Christmas Eve afternoon right outside the Dorothy Chandler pavilion.., Afterwards I attend 1st Xmas Eve service at good ol St. Brendan 6p - haven’t been here in a while. Father Pat is gone. New priest– don’t know him or them. Left a little early and went to Episcopal Beverly Hills for 8pm service. Stayed most of it, then left to go to St. Victor for 10pm service. Good morning, now it is Xmas Day 2021 morning service at St. Martin in Brentwood 8am, Then over to St. Paul Apostle for 11am cold inside–they are SO PARANOID here re covid–they open all windows and doors to keep breeze inside church. NFL: colts vs cardinals, browns vs packers. It stopped raining but a cool 50 degrees. #PrayTheMovies: Finished watching Godfather movie (had to finally watch it after hearing it being talked about every year around Xmas– now I know what it is all about) , also finished “Miracle on 34th Street” and “29th Street’ all good Xmas movies,
around block.
12/26 Sunday 2021 Friday was Xmas Eve, Saturday was Xmas Day & Sunday is the day after Xmas. When Xmas is on a Saturday you get an extra dose of church especially if you have a “church circuit” like I do. Rained more overnight, still cold & wet. 730 am tried to go to S.P.A church again but the creep was standing outside the door so I turned around and left. This guy never goes away. And they don’t know what to do about him. His behavior at the church isn’t bad enough to ban him, he’s just an annoyance. I go to Bel Air Presbyterian for the 9am service. There’s Kim Dorr again she’s been around a long time. Also Drew Sam preaches a sermon. Great pianist Sanborn plays “Go tell it on the Mountain.” Then I go back to St. Martin Brentwood– actually starting to like this church better now decent people here in general. Less of the monkey business you have at St. Pauls or even the episcopal BH.
Monday the 27th of December 2021 donate blood at 7am, rain cloud drizzle. 10 am now at Buena Vista Burbank library, also got an ice tea at the nearby McDonalds Tuesday the 28th Finbar church Burbank 8am it’s been a while. New priest here too. Back to same McDonalds this time the power goes out just as I enter. It takes them about 20 minutes to “reboot” the cash registers everything computerized takes a lot longer to start up again. They can’t make a sale until full reboot. I sit and wait. Blind lady comes in and orders a hot tea & gets upset that they didn’t put the tea bag in the cup. She starts yelling about it. Tried to do water refill at CVS next door but the water was sold out. Tuesday 28th Bongino had covid. Just for kicks, I Tried to pass by Central Casting but the road is closed. Now at AMC 16 in Burbank Tuesday discount for Matrix Resurrections. Notes: breach…freeze, we will shoot... Raise your hand... One little girl... Chase... She kills them. Dirty cops? Fake cops? 2 ladies blue
hair lady “bugs”, one looks like Carol Mutschler , or Beth Boyd. Another looks like Wesley Snipes. Thomas Anderson? “Neo” “I am Morpheus” pray for clarity wisdom re covid hysteria. Red pill vs blue pill. I missed a moment. Keanu Reeves -. This is not a john wick film? I didn’t see the 1st Matrix. “Free will or destiny” tiffany is her name. How we met. She’s a soccer mom. He’s a computer programmer for “Binary.” He’s in therapy– the therapist is played by the guy from doogie howser. “I’m a game show host– fame predictions... Then you... Wayne who? Back to the matrix “it’s a stock get rich quick scam” looks like Frank Sisung. Smoking. San Francisco high rise for therapy, Matrix movie continues. Wayne Allan Root on radio. Blue pill prescription double take. Value of adaptive anger. He’s a game designer. Somebody named Trinity. Neo looks like the dude. Black cat meaning of. “Lost distinction between reality and fiction” Am I Crazy? “We don’t use that word. Sublimated anger. You disliked my cat. Prayer vis: entry store sonital. On ledge of sky rise “free my mind” Jude is not your friend. To Tokyo on train.
#PrayTheMovies: Don’t let your mind get warped by sci-fi infatuation. I had mega prayer session near Finbar Burbank. Hollywood, Burbank, eagle knights, bad axis, Pettinga, Calvin, “Your brain is hooked by the matrix?” The hippy at Del mar library “I’m done fighting.” Awakens. Exomorphic particle. Lots of Af Americans here. Consumerism fragments society, weaponized culture, taxis stew post-modern abstract aft, deconstruct meaning, critical theorists. Slow moving drama getting a bit boring. Jessica Yuli Henwick is bugs- she’s British. Why did they leave Fishburn out of this one? Apple explodes. The analyst is a double agent. The black actress looks like PV library hoody lady. BOSLWSPEGG Naboj Icadooh (yes this means something, to me). Erase immune system? No matter how sophisticated science becomes, they cannot give the breath of life. Only GOD can. I did Naboj Icadooh last night too. People driving at windows. She hates the name Tiffany. She wants to be Trinity again. After Matrix Burbank Central
library briefly. Asian man living in a tiny truck next to me. How does he do it so small? Prayers4. Also the “Thank You lady”, prayers 4. Refill H20 Glendale. Casa Verdugo library – man snoring. Another kid mocks him. Changed pin for my Glendale card. 12/29/21 Wednesday 8am holy family Glendale next to National Guard. Cool morning. Supposed to rain by noon or so. Bandfest at 2. On the radio guy says that dead insects are a big problem on the energy windmills. They become so thick it slows them down until they are cleaned off. Really? Now at bandfest come every year it’s been wet before but never pouring rain so hard like right now. 1st band from Arcadia, then Waukee Iowa, now Mira Mesa San Diego, now Downington PA. Morgan Zegers is filling in for Seb Gorka. She’s a sharp gal. Ben Ferguson filling in for Mark Levin. #PrayTheMovies: “ French Dispatch” , unique, Henry Winkler, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe, Ed Norton, Elisabeth Moss, Del Taco $3.
12/30 Thursday 7am mass at St. Philip. I glared at the virtue signal check lock person. What a jerk. Enter church pouring rain. He double checks his door locks in the church parking lot in pouring rain at 7am. What a jerk. $1 coffee at Carls (very small). Now at MCD editing narration. Now 10 am at Bandfest always 1st is PCC (Pasadena city college, always in red & white), 2nd from Homewood Alabama, 3rd Bands of America – long session lots of energy still drizzling but not pouring like yesterday. The bands of America is a collection of honors band individuals from across USA. O’Fallon is the last band to play. I think one band got skipped. Guy talked past me to the other guy as if I was invisible. I stopped in briefly at the Hill Street library— hippy jerk employee made a deal about having a mask on. He handed me a mask. I stood up and said “I’m sick of this mask stuff…” and walked out while yelling a few of my feelings about it including “LGB.” Civil disobedience mask defiance. Now at 99 cents,bought some chia, lettuce, chips, & onions. Listening to Hanks Old Time Radio app– really enjoy this free app on Simple Radio this episode is called “The Sealed Book.” Some
people try to profit off these old radio shows bundling them together & offering subscriptions etc. but they are all free in the public domain. You can find them on YouTube and other places for free. Don’t need to spend money on them. Bandfest final session 1) PCC, 2) Band Directors of America unique group all older men & women who have been band directors and they do pretty good in the rain. An extra-long segment too. Air Force Total Force band is good as well. Now O’ Fallon? Did they play twice? #PrayTheMovies: New movie at Pasadena discount theatre called “Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City” I wasn’t expecting much but there’s actually a lot of covid symbolism or parallels in this film, including the name Raccoon from which you can also spell Corona (minus one o & c). Coincidental? I think not since there’s nothing about the animal in the film. And it’s also about a big pharma company gone crazy the Umbrella Corp - the T-virus creates zombies and the vaccine makes things even worse.
Michigan State wins Peach Bowl great ending. New Years Eve very tired after blood donation. Drove around Rose Bowl- nice day finally. No rain. Ohio State & Utah fans arriving for tomorrow’s game after parade. Alabama easily beats Cincinnati at the Cotton Bowl 27-6 no doubt about it. Meanwhile: Now Michigan is playing Georgia at the Orange Bowl. -it’s a blowout final score 34-11Wolverines lose. Georgia moves on to BCS championship game to play Alabama again. Stop in at Ralphs grocery for some instant coffee & grab some unsweetened apple sauce as well. Now I am parked for the night by Afters Ice Cream my usual spot ready for 8 am parade tomorrow. I haven’t missed attending a Rose Parade in person since my first year as a student at Fuller Seminary -not far away- in 1996. Movies I’m reviewing now include Noah with Russel Crowe, also “All of Me” with Steve Martin & Lily Tomlin, and “The Illusionist” with Ed Norton; and “Blue Chips” with Nick Nolte (also Shaquille O’Neal, & even Larry Byrd).
1/1/22 Happy New Year 2022!! It’s 8 am I’m walking to the parade route on Colorado Ave– the stealth bomber just flew over– pretty cool. Now I am waiting for the parade to reach us it is about 830 am not here yet takes a while to make its way thru the 5-mile route. It doesn’t reach us until 8:52. I’m standing by the Michaels store. There’s an extremely tall guy standing in front of everybody–either no self-awareness or simply self-centered. He must know he’s blocking people’s views. And he has a huge face mask on nobody else is wearing them here outside. His looks like a dog snout - it sticks out so far. Annoying . I try to avoid getting him in my camera view as I am filming the parade. There’s always one or two oddballs that stand out every year. I remember one year when an Asian group made a point of running out to get a picture with the pooper scoopers every time they came by behind the equestrians.
IT was funny once– but they did it every single time the entire parade. The joke was quite old by the end of the parade. So I’ve been filming the parade every year originally with some pretty bad camera phones. It’s gotten a little better. I keep trying a few new little things avoid the shady spots from tall buildings that’s why I stand a few miles from the start less tall buildings. And now camera phones have “pause” option on video cam which makes the filming much smoother. There’s also a guy with a shirt that says “Arizona Ranger” on the back. He’s with his wife or girlfriend. They've been in front of me the entire parade. I didn’t notice them too much nor they me or so I thought up until one point when the lady turned around and just stared at me for a moment not sure what the stare was about – good or bad? She didn’t say anything. Then she turned back around and never looked back again. Whatever. That song “Voodoo in the vibes” funny. Here’s the Homewood Band- near the beginning of the parade, Also Animal Kingdom float – impressive (I remember the great TV show with Marlin Perkins). There doesn’t seem to be a rule for the float riders & marching bands about masks. Some wear them. Some don’t. I felt
sorry for the cheerleaders in the LAUSD band all required to wear masks for the entire 5 miles while walking & cheering etc. That’s wrong. And so unnecessary. IT doesn’t help anybody. Literally. Honda Believe/Achieve rocket man float. Levar Burton is the grand marshal. Here’s the Downey rocket & tiger float. Now the UPS Rose & Shine float mother duckling reading a book good one. Now the Alhambra yellow school bus float– says “School Rocks” on it. Now the OSU Buckeyes band. Here’s the Rotary float owl. LA cruisin Wetzel pretzel route 66 surfer float. Lunquist UCLA pharma float says “ImPositive” on it I don’t like pharma trying to normalize vaccines and viruses as if they are the heroes to save us. Next float says “Courage to Hope” Lions Club. Now Sierra Madre Toucan Rain Forest float & Bands of America. Now the Marine Band & large USA flag. Here’s the Jesus float by the Lutheran church (always similar but not exactly the same every year). Trader Joe’s has a fruity float with watermelon, banana, etc. which says “You are Invited.” Here’s the royal court. And now the Utah Utes cheerleading team.
The AMC float is very impressive and got the most views on YouTube it’s a giant movie theatre screen showing actually film clips and a few chairs with people watching. #9 Oklahoma State is now playing #5 Notre Dame at the Fiesta Bowl “ No. 9 Oklahoma State pulled off the biggest comeback in school history, storming back from a 21-point deficit to defeat No. 5 Notre Dame 37-35 “WowMidwest teams don’t do very well in the post-season bowl games. Here’s the Western Asset float including 7 seas, wise man, astronomy etc. I was going to go the Cal Tech Beavers basketball game after the parade, schedule for 2pm on New Years day, but now I notice it’s been cancelled. Wonder why. Here’s the Burbank selfbuilt float -=- knight and dragon nice. And now the Mrs. Meyers “seeding tomorrow” float. San Diego Zoo Safari park has a great entry. Here’s South Pasadena float “Sky’s the Limit.” And the Stealth Bomber again as the Rose Bowl game kicks off– got a picture this time. The La Canada “old dogs new tricks “float is
impressive- lots of moving parts including a mechanical skateboarder. “Who says we can’t” is written on the float. Now editing Rose photos, uploaded all the video segments and put titles on each one. Fun watching which ones get viewed the most. It’s amazing what you can deduce from what attracts people out there. You can imagine the amount of meta data the Big Tech companies get from all the trends & viral videos etc. They have a massive amount of data that tells them so much about demographics and much more. Managed to make it to evening mass at St. Philip church 530 pm. Good priest here. Homeless fellow changing his clothes in the hallway as I enter. And cocky too. Good grief.
1/2/22 Sunday 8am St. Andrew Catholic beautiful interior. 10 am Christian Science- another beautiful Pasadena building always interesting. 1 pm made it back to Redondo Beach and managed to have a brief swim on New Years Day– cold but great– refreshing. The fish were flying while I was swimming– very cool. NFL in progress: Vikings lose to Packers without Kirk Cousins who tested positive for covid. Antonio Brown walks off the field mid-game coach says he’s fired. Buccaneers come back to beat the Jets. 1/3/22 Monday 8am mass at St. James plus rosary, 9am at 99 cents story grocery shopping. 11 am another swim plus exercise. Parked by Ruby Street. 1230 to 130 meal prep, and 2-mile walk. Weirdo asked me for money 130 to 3 pm. Good meal of pot pies mixed with hamburger.
1/4/22 Tuesday 8am mass St. James & rosary, the regularly rosary guy isn’t there anymore . Rose photos loaded to scribd. 1 pm another swim– small waves. Haven’t seen big waves here in a long time. 1pm to 3 - meal and then exercise at Veterans Park. Post a few tweets. #PrayTheMovies: “American Underdog” about Kurt Warner kind of interesting not overwhelmed by it even though I should be supportive of it as it gives his Christian testimony. He’s originally from the Iowa City– Cedar Rapids area – coincidentally. Movie starts with him as a kid pretending to be an NFL
quarterback. He attended University of North Iowa but didn’t play much even in college did finally start his final year- got called bot drafted by packers but they cut him right away. So he played arena football for a few years...then got a chance with the St. Louis Rams. and the rest, as they say, is history. IN his 1st year with the Rams after the starting QB gets hurts Warner steps in and leads them to Superbowl victory. Wow. The movie also is about him meeting his wife Brenda a single mom at the time– and one of the two is a special needs child- blind because he was accidentally dropped as a baby by his birth father. The movie is based on the book “All Things Possible.” I remember seeing Warner and/or his wife at the Crystal Cathedral one time. Maybe that was when they were promoting the book.
#PrayTheMovies: he has a college roommate- they go to a bar even though Warner wants to stay home & watch football clips. He learns how to line dance and meets Brenda. Still waiting to get drafted. She won’t till him her name. The bar is named Wild E Coyote. Warner looks like Dan Brink. He says “Football is the only thing I’ve ever been good at.” She leaves. Next day he goes to her house meets Zack the son. He fixes the kid’s radio. “Can I be blunt” she asks. “Call next time.” He walked to her house several miles. Warner was born in 1971 in Burlington Iowa 80 miles south of Iowa City. He also played in Amsterdam Netherlands for a year with NFL Europe (now defunct). He won the 2000 Superbowl 23-16 versus Titans. Eight years later with the AZ Cardinals he lost a Superbowl vs Steelers 27-23...another close one. He’s nicknamed “NFL’s greatest undrafted player.” After NFL he coached high school football in Scottsdale. Brenda was in the marines. Her parents were killed in an Arkansas tornado. After Packers cut him he worked at a grocery store in Iowa for a while then he went to play for the Iowa Barnstormers arena football and did fairly well. HE’s been sponsored by Amway later in life. Good fit. Packers coach Mike Holmgren was the one who cut him and didn’t really give him much of a chance. But Warner says it was a good thing because otherwise
he would have sat behind Brett Favre forever. He starts getting $100 bonus for every TD in arena football. He’s becoming an arena football star. But Brenda is not happy. They fix the relationship. Bruce McGill plays the part of the coach of the Barnstormers teamHe was in the 1978 Animal House movie. Wow. Anna Paquin plays the part of Brenda. She’s from New Zealand & Canada. They finally get married. They lose the arena championship game but he’s approached by Dave Gillis of the rams after the game– said they are interested. Dennis Quaid plays the part of the Rams coach (Dick Vermeil) 1999 is his 1st year with the rams leading into 2000 superbowl victory. Interestingly, the QB who got hurt Trent Green was also from the Cedar Rapids area. Marshall Faulk was the running back. Ray Lewis on the opposing team. Wednesday take a walk and exercise PV.
January 6 2022 Thursday swim at RB–supposed to be warm but it was very foggy– couldn’t see very far as I was swimming. Started new Xmas card blog called “Cutting Edge Xmas Cards” Finished editing of AmeriPrayer IV. Placed on Amp Drive. Good waves at RB on January 7 after 8 am mass foggy again. Made it to Bellflower overnight- thanks for the donation to Mustard Seed ministries. Deposit check. Helps. 9am stop at grandpa grandma cemetery. Blood balance is 500. Foggy again even in Bellflower. Roseton street–pray for Templemans. San Berdoo gas for $4.09 not far from Redlands (managed to also get gas back in PV for $4.25surprisingly low for that part of town). Finally sunny.
#PrayTheNews: Ted Cruz has angered a lot of people with his terrorist comment re patriots on Jan6. He apologizes and tries to clarify but Tucker Carlson won’t let him easily off the hook. 700 were arrested for #January6 activities out of about 1 million there. Most did nothing wrong really. A few more serious- but nothing even close to that of a terror attack. And it was the patriots who died at the Capitol, nobody else. And nobody had guns. It was a frame job- entrapment sickening. IT seems to have been orchestrated by
the FBI themselves among perhaps other federal agencies. I was there but left early never came close to Cap Building. I might have been entrapped as well if I had, but my phone had mysteriously died so I headed back to my car instead. Now in Redlands passing by Kimberly Crest took that tour once 11am. Check oil & fluids ok. Now arriving in Palm Springs their annual Film Fest is about to start– oops– guess not– they just cancelled it. Because of Omicron outbreak... really? Nap by the rite-aid. Send the Spee Xmas card–somehow this fell thru the cracks glad I found it they’ll get it 2 weeks after Xmas. Better late than never. Right.? Now at 355 movie at discount theatre. Not a bad action film.
#PrayTheMovies: “355” movie “The title is derived from Agent 355, the codename of a female spy for the Patriots during the American Revolution.” all the main characters are women. South of Bogota Columbia, jungle plantation, armed guards, drug lord, Mr Patron, he’s here. Kid shows him the drone. The new drug technology untraceable, master key, he’s been infiltrated, federal agents, raid, shooting, “freckle films”, escape, federales federal agents. Back in Wash DC, NSA, Annette Benning is one of the actresses. Young couple kick box training. Now in Paris, pretending to be a couple on honeymoon, he actually likes her, “you are my best friend. I don’t want to mess this up” disappointing gratuitous love scene. This kind of stuff is not scintillating anymore. Chase motorcycle gunshots, “Do you have the drive?” there’s only cash in the bag. Fist fight, Regal or regency Cathedral City. “Dial it down” my mission “I’m not a child anymore.” she replies. Lupita Nyongo another actress. They could start World War 3, blind spot, girls fight, gun fight, seafood market, bag taken, “con migo” “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Now in Morocco. “I’m not an agent. I’m a therapist” women with ice in their veins. Power grid down, mission accomplished. Can’t be yet still in 1st hour of the movie, power grid down, we need exfiltration. Auction, shanghai, the guy’s still alive. Naboj icadooh. Twilabd. Hear My Prayer Lord. The bad guy looks like Bobby Schuler. Who’s the Lady in red? Decoy drive. They’re killing their loved
ones. Where’s the drive. Red china girl lady has glasses that tells the others where she is. Finally she smashes the drive. Should have done that much earlier. Now in Palm Desert at Holiday Inn. Sat. 1/8/22 745 am mass at Sacred heart. Priests talks about wanting to study in Rome but being assigned to Ottawa (Canada) instead. “We must decrease so he can Increase” 830 hiking B & G trail. 11am palm desert library – created link to AmeriPrayer IV –put on Kingdom Blog, book sale at library, masks required. Updated library card. I remember the one lady nice. 1 to 3pm maps evangelism at college of the desert (COD) -- took alt exit 1st time drove by baseball field kids playing little league game. 430pm now at Sacred Heart for 530 mass, the priest waved on his way in I thought it was the deacon but it’s Fr Gregory Elder - one of the few married Roman Catholic priests. He also has a Ph.D. and was a professor, as is his wife, Sara Elder. And they have 2 adult kids. He’s a colorful preacher. Back at holiday Inn, no Mexican music tonight like last night– that was horrible -2 hours of Mexican music and not the kind I like. Next to Best Western.
1/9/22 Sunday 8am start the day at Desert Springs church I like the music here, but this is definitely a senior citizens church. I feel like a kid here- and I’m 54 years old. They have plumbing problems here. No running water in the restroom. Mark Brewer is the pastor. Now at the Palm Desert Presbyterian– full service - like it here. Its right next door to the Episcopal Church where they held the Betty Ford funeral 930am which I attended as well. And the trail to the cross up on the hill is right behind us. So I do the hike to the cross after the Presbyterian service. Not too hot in the desert in January it’s in the high 60’s low 70’s – perfect actually. 2nd good hike in 2 days here in Palm Desert. Trying to get back in decent physical condition. After the cross hike 1pm went back over to the PD library. Starting AmeriPrayer 5 dictation 2 hours typing. Lot easier writing books on an actual computer keyboard than on a smartphone –which I was forced to do during covid lockdown- no libraries open, and I only use library computers after my laptop was stolen. Some NFL
games on the radio- mostly meaningless last regular season games of the year. Except the very final one- Raiders vs Chargers does have meaning. And it’s a good one– into overtime, the Raiders win by a field goal. That was a thriller.
Monday 1/10/22 745 mass again at Sacred Heart. Bing Crosby himself helped start this church in the late 50’s. Back at BG trail hiking again– pleasantly surprised by a herd of Bighorn Sheep – at least 10 of them one with a collar- lots of young ones- a bit leery of humans. One moved quickly and started a rock slide. That was fun to see them. Took a few pics. 1030 am back at Palm Desert library at College of the Desert - this is Riverside County library. Continue working on AmeriPrayer V until 1230. Then back to the BG trail another loop hike from 2 to 4 pm- it’s about 2.5 miles I think with plenty of elevation. Pray for the 2 ladies one seemed to be having knee problems. And the creepy Latino who pulled his shirt over his face as we passed each other going opposite directions.
Not many are stupid enough to wear masks hiking outdoors but there’s always a few who like to create covid drama on the trail one way or another. Same thing at the library right now as I’m typing a new patron enters and proceeds to wipe down everything at the computer she’s about to use the keyboard, the computer, the chair, the table– these people are IMBECILES acting like they care about being clean but they’re idiots. I can understand wiping the keyboard once but really the only real thing you can do to fend off germs is wash your hands AFTERWARDS. Simple as that. These types of people are the ones that fraudsters prey upon creating fear & panic - even fraudsters in the government. They can always depend on these pawns. Now 5pm McDonalds ice tea taste good. Now listening to BCS championship game: Georgia vs Alabama it’s a good one entertaining and Georgia pulls away for the win, despite having lost to Bama earlier in the season. Last minute Georgia interception wraps it up. Final score 33-18. 1/11/25 Tuesday 745 am mass - it’s Fr Greg Elder again. He mentions his son in law
not yet baptized? Was a soldier in Afghanistan? #PrayTheMovies: Now new movie called “Being the Ricardos” about Lucille Ball and “I Love Lucy” and the “red scare” that happened to Lucy– she was accused of being a communist because she checked the box on a voter registration many years prior. Palm Desert mall theatre discount Tuesday $6. Only 2 older couples in the theatre. Notes: “You Cuban dimwit ““being the Ricardos “ movie. I was passed out. My husband or cover with another woman. Were all tense. Jess Oppenheimer, Monday “table read.” Philip Morris sponsor. But she’s smoking a chesterfield. Could she at least smoke a …, 20 years ago. Says sge accidentally checked the wrong box on voter registration. “They invented the whole thing?” “Love you back- you know- not really. “You are kinetically gifted.” Does Desi really love Lucy? I’m pregnant. She loses an earring in the grape stomp. Motherhood too salacious for CBS.” “You can’t have a pregnant on a TV show.” “I didn’t check the wrong box” she was communist sympathetic.
Desi spends more time on the boat than at home he plays cards with his buddies on the boat and also unfaithful. Nicole Kidman plays the part of Lucy. She was born in Hawaii in 1967 so she is American born but their family moved to Australia at age 4 I think she has Australian nationality now. Not positive. Lucy gets a part on “The Big Street.” Another actress looks like Joanie from Happy Days. Such a big drama about ‘Guess Who?” Lucy doesn’t like it. BOSLWSPEGG. “Don’t patronize me” #PrayTheMovies: Hollywood repent! She gets Bill & Ethyl on set at 2am... was she obsessive compulsive? “Save my marriage.” Lucy smokes a lot. Now she’s on “My Favorite Husband” CBS radio. Headlines in newspaper “Lucille Ball is a Red” in big red letters. Lucille Ball a red? No. Just a redhead. “If they boo you, then we’re done.”
#PrayTheMovies: never socialism. Funny how Hollywood expects people to embrace socialism if not communism– but the stars they are filthy rich. He talks to FBI on phone “she’s 100% clear” says J
Edgar Hoover (fiction). Synch: 1st song I hear after the movie is “Lucille” by Little Richard. #PrayTheMovies “Hero” (filmed in Iran)... High cliff starts the film=-- not sure... Maybe archeology site? Why show this? Kids playing, he meets his girlfriend. They try to sell something at a coin shop? Kind of confusing beginning. He is temporarily out of debtor prison. Kid playing video game won’t eat dinner. They are praying to god–”Have pity on us & give us a miracle” – are they Muslim? Presumably. But some are smoking. So maybe not. So they found a bag of valuable coins and now are trying to find the owner who lost them. “If he doesn’t pay I’ll denounce him” this is apparently a cultural thing: “to publicly state that someone or something is bad or wrong: to criticize (someone or something) harshly and publicly.: to report (someone) to the police or other authorities for illegal or immoral acts.” basically to “GO PUBLIC” tell police or media etc. to try to shame a person. They find the person who lost the bag bug don’t get her name or ID or anything. They just trust and verify but then she disappears with the bag. So some people start doubting. Meanwhile the media is celebrating him as a Good Samaritan and he even gets a reward from a local altruistic organization. And an offer of a job. But the rest of the movie is about overcoming the doubters. And his interactions with the man who he owes money (the creditor vs the debtor). He also has a special needs child. When the movie started in palm desert it was just me and another man then 4 kids came in this is a serious movie not sure why the kids want to see it and they are noisy and running around in and out the other guy finally goes and complains & an employee comes in and gives them a warning. Eventually the kids leave altogether. Then the other guy leaves halfway thru. I watch the whole film. Not bad. It got some awards including recognition at Cannes Film Fest. At the end of the film the main character makes another altruistic act: he agrees to give up the reward to a lady who is trying to save her husband from getting hanged. So he goes back to prison for this because he still has not paid off his debt. One character looks like
1/12/25 Wednesday. 745 mass- here’s Fr Greg or Craig again looked him up he’s a rare “married priest” says his son-in-law was in Afghanistan (presumably military) but not yet baptized? Not Christian or Catholic? 830 leaving CV. 845 stopped at O’Reilly and got the battery checked-. Gal said it was good, also alternator & started checked good. Now driving thru Indio, past the fairgrounds, passed by CVHS where I started my career as a teacher . Where there used to be an empty field size of a football field- is now ALL full of portable classrooms. 10 am rest area– radiator is good. Cotton gulch 1017, past exert to Joshua Tree, Mecca, & 29 palms. Haven’t been to Joshua Tree in a long time. Here’s the General Patton Museum 1022 did the tour there once . Indoor and outdoor exhibits. Chiriaco Summit exit 173, hayfield road 1026, gas is $4.19 in Thermal– glad I will make it across the border to get gas for $1 less. Starting to ‘pray the plates” again. Red Cloud Road 10:31. FutureNews.news is the new A Jones site. I listen to him periodically. I am not a groupie of his. Sometimes he’s too far overthe-top. Other times he hits the mark. Not all good. Not all bad.
Eagle Mountain Road & Hillock Ditch 1036. Tex Was 1037, Fixed seatbelt. Solar Panel Lake, Lake Tamarisk, been there. There is a lake with some water and a resort of sorts, but the blue you see from the highway is actually mostly solar panels not water. Desert Center with the headless palm trees. Rice Road 10:40 177 highway. Quartz Ditch 1043, Ghost Ditch 1044, Palen Ditch 1045, Rollie Ditch 1044, Corn Spring Road 1047, Meta Ditch, Oban Ditch, Aztec Ditch, Sutro Ditch, Copa Ditch, Alta Ditch, Rubble Ditch 1055, Beehive Ditch, Arco Ditch 11am, Mud Ditch, Ford Dry Lake. Tommy Robinson on A Jones show. Awoke at 2am by lights not for me (palm desert). Gale Ditch 1109 McCoy Wash, Isora Ditch, Mesa Verde Ditch, Palo Walla Ditch, City of Blythe 1122, Cibola NWR, Bongino implies he took over for Limbaugh but Buck Sexton &
Clay Travis got the Rush song? Apparently the two shows split some parts of the Limbaugh show at different locations. So it’s both. Ehrenberg AZ $3.68 gas. City of Parker is a bit south. Here’s Dome Rock exit where you can car camp on BLM did that once. Now begin the saguaros. I’ve become non-statist. I don’t have a permanent state identity. Quartzsite 153 time change? Tyson Wash. AmeriPrayer 5 begins officially. Radio announce said something about Bullhead City, sounded like Bonehead City. Funny.
#PrayTheNews: re filibuster voting rights Biden’s bill got shot down thanks to Sinema & Manchin. They’re talking about Nuclear fusion now– saying it’s “not if but when” Enter Maricopa County 144, harqhahal & Valley Road #PrayTheNews: coal use is increasing worldwide not decreasing. Nuclear fusion equals “sun on earth” they say. And “no meltdown no mess.” #PrayTheNews: Djokovic Australia Open– he gets turned down – sent out of the country0– now allowed to compete. Sad. Australia has gone plumb crazy. Rest area at 230 plus free water for water bottles-. Always nice. It’s not so easy to find free water these days anymore. Lady at rest area taking selfies with a funny pillow. Not sure what that’s all about. 60 miles to Phoenix. Tonopah 244pm, City of Buckeye gas for $3.39 at 259pm at Loves in Tolleson. Total $76.48 for 22.5 gallons. I always shop around using gas buddy. IN this case I saved 11 bucks. Arriving in Phoenix stop in at Litchfield Library– 1st time here. Get a guest pass to use the computer. This is a Maricopa County library.
1/13/22 Thursday slept in the Litchfield area Hampton Inn Goodyear AZ. 8am mass at the AQ church always try to come here 1st when I arrive in Phoenix. However, this morning there’s a mixup and no priest is here at 8am. By 825 somebody comes up and announces that there was a schedule mix-up and that a priest is on the way and “Please be patient.” Onward. Wing Wam Golf course looks nice. Did some laundry and temporarily put my shoes on top of the vehicle. Not sure if I drove off with them still on top of the car or if somebody took them off the top when I went inside for a few
minutes. They were not special shoes or anything but still. Maybe I drove off with them still on top but when I backtracked I didn’t see them anywhere. So maybe somebody will enjoy my old shoes. I’ve been planning on buying some new shoes anyways given I’m heading for east coast mid-winter. Will need shoes for wet cold snow probably. In fact an hour later I found some new shoes for $12 bucks at Walmart. Nothing special but sufficient. Then I drove all the way to Mesa AZ to donate blood. My new mobile phone service not so reliable . Keeps dropping. I have to restart the phone to reconnect. Frequently. Now at Red Mountain library. McDonaldsseveral refills- dine -in. was very dehydrated. AZ people are very down -to-earth, Friday 1/14/22 slept near Holy Cross church in mesa and attended morning mass at 830 am. Like this church. Listening to Frost & McCarty radio show from Traverse City (no, I’m not in Traverse City). Heading eastward thru Apache area and Superstitious Mountains. Highway 60 thru Miami & Globe AZ. I remember this area from last time including a place called “Christmas” that I went thru a few days before Xmas. Now Mike Gallagher on the radio 960 am. Everybody’s talking about Biden’s very terrible no good week. Which one? I like the “fuel range” gadget on my console. I know how far I can go with the amount of gas I have. Drank some hi-protein chocolate milk to refuel. Good. Now at Gonzales Pass 934, Picketpost. Chrystal Frost says she went to Interlochen School & Teacups? Oh, I guess that’s TCAPS (Traverse City area public schools) Boyce-Thompson Arboretum City of Superior. She mentions “weaponized incompetence” Tonto Natl Forest and “Top of the World” 953. Gila County 956 great bouldering opportunities here. I think back to some of my older vans that I didn’t dare turn off too often they might not restart that kept me moving sometimes too many restarts in a short period of time created problems for some of them– I still have that superstition even though my current vehicle is fine. I can rely upon it to restart frequently. I used to love rock- hopping. Haven’t done it in a while.
Pinto Creek Construction 1032. Pinto Valley Mine. City of Miami 1038 the school here is named Bullion they may have found some gold around here but apparently more silver and copper. Maybe they’re still mining copper here. Angry pickup driver roars past me. Yawn. Some punks in pickups are tiresome. City of Claypool, now city of Globe at 1049, historic downtown everybody has renamed their downtown area “historic” even when it’s mostly boarded up and dilapidated. Funny. San Carlos Apache Reservation 1109. City of San Carlos & Lake? Old wet highway. I see the lake decide to take the loop around it didn’t know it would become a “primitive road”-- partially paved. Lots of holes etc. Had to go very slow. Not much recreation around the lake. You can primitive camp and there’s a primitive boat ramp...no boats out there right now. Maybe decent fishing here at the right time. Colorful “soda canyon” area.
Music on radio “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga. I met her once outside the Jay Leno Tonight Show– back when I used to hang out around there became a frequent attendee. Leno even recognized me after a while. This is Injun territory. There’s also the Coolidge Dam here. A few workers doing something. No tourists out here. I finally make it around back to the main high way 127pm. Now thru the City of Geronimo maybe not a city but an area or community. Now City of Bylas. Now Fort Thomas at 147pm, Klaus Schwab often mentioned by A Jones re “The Great Reset” – Jones plays a cut of the Dutch Prime minister who responds to a reporter that he doesn’t know who is Klaus Schwab, but the PM actually wrote a foreword to Schwab’s book. How ridiculous. Now City of Pima 2pm, City of Safford 230-330 nap.
#PrayTheNews: Mancow is running for governor of Illinois. Thatcher AZ $25 gas $3.39 gallon 7 gallons. Safford 343 pm. Now city of Solomon 347, City of Duncan, City of Franklin. I pray for each city as I pass thru– and often take a short video clip for evangelical purposes on YouTube. Now entering New Mexico at 330m. On the radio Neil Diamond & B Streisand “You don’t buy
me flowers anymore” also a song by Skeeter Davis. For some reason I wondered to myself “Why does my heart keep beating? “ Why can’t science make a human being? Only GREAT GOD can do so. City of Deming 630pm, City of Lordsburg now interstate 10darkness. I hear that Snowstorm Izzy is heading for the east will I get stuck in it? (turns out mostly media hype I did go thru some of these areas– maybe a bit south- but no problems– although I will get bitter cold weather on the day I arrive in Wash DC.. keep reading). Gas Stop: 9.5 gallons for $28.45 at $3 per gallon in Las Cruces.ENTER TEXAS 8pm. Texas has lowest gas prices as low as $2.79. PTLMUG. #PrayTheNews: NFL: Zimmer gets fired by the Vikings. Was he the problem?
1/15/22 Saturday, Slept in El Paso wake up 40 degrees. That’s still warm compared to what it will be. Bright sun. In eyes going eastward. Fort Hancock 820 am, 510 miles to San Antonio. After El Paso it’s a long stretch of open land, mostly flat. Later a little more colorful. See lots of Texas Ranger police along the way. McDonalds coffee $1.49. Texas Prayer. Thru a checkpoint: “Are you an American citizen? Yes. Anybody in the car with you? No. “Have a safe one.” Now central time zone? 919 am Allamore 912 am, another TX ranger I waved. City of van Horn. Sul Ross University? Rest Area 1013 another ranger 1030, & another 1040, Boracho Exit 1047. Another ranger City of Pecos - interstate 10 and 20 split here. One goes to San Antonio. I’m heading to Dallas Fort Worth. City of Pyote 11:12 or 1:12? 6 hours to Dallas. Rest area nap 145 to 215 City of Monahans 223, City of Odessa/Midland more gas : $3 /gal 13/4 gallons total $40. A long industrial area here. 322. City of Stanton? 354 City of Coahoma 530 City of Westbrook 549 Colorado City 550 plus prison prayer. NFL: Raiders vs Bengals on radio. Now Big Springs at 515 did a little sightseeing trying to see the actual big spring. 520pm. Tried going to McDonalds but drive thru line too long per usual. McDonalds drive thru is always busy now. Rarely quick & easy. I think some people go thru McDonalds drive thru because they are lonely. I often hear long conversations. Myself I
am quick and to the point and get annoyed when people talk too much at the drive- thru Sweetwater 625 pm Wasp Museum looks interesting re Women Airforce Service Pilots (or 'WASPs'). Maybe next time. This is not a sightseeing segment. This is a straight shot to Washington DC (more or less- I may pause here & there depending on timeline). Bengals defeat the Raiders 26-19 close game. Now Abilene TX 735, SUPPOSED to be in 20’s tonight. Yikes. Now Patriots vs Bills on radio. Patriots will lose. City of Baird 756.
Now Sunday January 16 7am donated blood in Fort Worth area. Exit there at 9am, go to St. Patricks Cathedral church in downtown Fort Worth for 930 mass. Nice building. Here’s City hall. 1130 fuel City 13.5 gallons for $2.84/gal total $38.56, Saginaw TX. Now Blue Mound road. There’s also the Kimball museum in Fort Worth. I drop in. very nice 12 to 1240. Also stroll thru the Botanical Gardenthe Japanese garden is especially nice. Here’s Will Rogers building. Is Fort Worth more blue collar than Dallas? NFL: Buccaneers are blowing out the Eagles. No surprise. Here’s the Van Zandt cottage. Stop in at the Amon Carter museum of American art also nice. Near the stockyards & the cowgirls hall of fame. prayer Vis: 1) American Art lady & guy guards a bit overbearing. 2) Mom yelling at kid at Japanese garden. Now Cowboys vs 49ers on radio. Leaving Ft Worth at 330 no toll in I-30 City of Arlington. Is Russia more powerful than China? Debatable. Surprised to see Holy Trinity Catholic Church is full mid-game of Dallas vs 49ers. Not everybody in Dallas is a die-hard Cowboys fan. 49ers will go on to eliminate the Cowboys. I parked in the parking lot at the church before anybody else arrived which seemed to cause suspicion of a church worker. So I moved to a street spot. Ridiculous. What a day: 2 museums, 3 churches, blood donation. 3 football games on radio. Ending at Holy Trinity mass and a memorable moment. Now leaving Dallas towards Shreveport. So far only cold. No snow. City of Forney 643 pm, City of Terrell 650pm, City of Canton 722pm, City of Kilgore 828 pm, City of Longview 836pm, TurnBackAmerica.com. City of Marshall
858 pm, City of Waskom 914 pm, slept at the Louisiana Welcome Center Rest Area.
January 17 2022 Monday: Driving again at 754 am cool morning, no snow, no rain, sunny blue sky, City of Shreveport at 756 municipal rose garden, Elvis statue, no stop=- remember the sights from last time. Here’s the Independence Bowl along the interstate. Frost on the fields, Geese flying in V. 5 v’s. Reminds me of goose hunting with Jack Holwerda & Rick Byle a few times. Ark-La-Tex region. On the Radio: Old time radio “Endless road” something about a burro jackass donkey. What’s a burro she asks? It’s a donkey. It’s a jackass honey. “Webster parish at 826 am. I am a child of “50’s parents” (parents who were kids in the 50’s they have special characteristics). City of Bienville parish 841, Grambling State Univ drove thru there last time. Here’s the Bonnie & Clyde Ambush Museum. City of Ruston & LSU (Louisiana Tech Univ, not Louisiana State), on the radio they’re talking about the few players who won both a college football championship and a superbowl: they mention Joe Namath. What about Kenny Stabler?
I stop in at the Walmart in Ruston Louisiana stock up on food total bill $160 because I bought new pillow too for $30 plus power steering fluid. Something didn’t make sense about that. $45 on credit card. Should have been $37? Or did I buy something else? But the workers there turned out to be lousy. Except for the one in the automotive section. Also broccoli, cauliflower, mustard, lasagna, corn, peas, apples, pecans, applesauce, walnuts, water, etc. But something didn’t add up on the receipt. Also the shoes I wanted to buy wouldn’t ring up they kept saying “no sale” but the clerk is supposed to be able to override this: she either didn’t know how or was playing dumb? Started a survey on twitter as to why people went thru with an abortion. If we can figure out the “primary reason” we can try to eliminate this– or minimize it at least. Why not at least adoption? Is J a cross-his-fingers Christian? Coca Cola
museum. Gas $36.81 1149am west Monroe 13.19 gallons $2.78 Full tank range 672 miles Natchitoches road. Synch: duck dynasty at hi noon. Honk wave. Big bend cammo shop. Jan6 wouldn’t have happened without FBI involvement. They enabled it to happen. But then it was NOT what they wanted no real violence except for violence by the Capitol Police against the patriots themselves. Likewise now they’re saying the alleged so-called Witchmer kidnapping plot wouldn’t have happened without the FBI either. Bayou Lafourche 1244. Cop in white unmarked. Julie Kelly book re Jan6. Phil Rob education? Swamps west Monroe gators Boeuf River? 1250 attorney named Christian Creed? Poverty Point World Heritage Site. Pink Floyd “The Wall” on radio “We don’t need no education.”
#PrayTheNews: Prager criticizing Judge Harvey Silverman of Pasadena. City of Vicksburg 2m Mississippi City of Tallulah and women’s prison. City of Delhi 115 pm, Tensas River 121 Cotton fields, project Hood Pastor Brooks. Lunch from 2-3 in Vicksburg. Clinton MS 325 lots of civil rights history here Big Black river 308 City of Bolton 318 , MLK Day 2022 (L.A. PARADE cancelled again. HBC truck aggressive tail gating license plate V47-60Z Canada near exit 31 highway 20 east 320 pm, 3 deer on the very edge of I-20 406 pm, Sent email complaint, Sikh temple. Beautiful full moon, finished Rose Parade (a P-Kok production with peacock Icon, K.O.K. ministries (King of Kings). Jackson MS 234. City of Pearl, & Brandon prison 346, City of Chunky 532 pm, Gas in Median Mendia? $2.79 City of Toom Suba 3 more deer NFL : Cardinals vs Rams, now Hwy 80 Entering Alabama at 619City of Cuba AL, passed thru Selma on MLK Day 815pm, lost internet connection at Holiday Inn, onward to Montgomery, Selma to Montgomery 54 mile march NPS visitor center 9pm cst, synch: 91% at 911 pm, Jessie Kelly on radio re John Yancy war hero Korea. Halftime Rams vs Cards, LA leads 21-0, City of White Hall. Tuesday the 18th National Memorial for Peace & reconciliation 806am, frosty morning white grass. Slept in Montgomery AL,
here’s a Dollar Store warehouse or headquarters? Sign for MooSeum (Alabama agriculture museum). MLK home 1043. F. Scott Fitzgerald home 1045, Alabama State University – they’re not a real rival of Alabama U. Fine Arts Museum in Montgomery is very nice. Legacy Museum. MLK Church (Dexter), Alabama Museum & Capitol. Old Bama town. Hank Williams Museum, Civil Rights Memorial, Rosa Parks Museum, National Memorial for Peace. 106 Week of prayer for Christian unity Jan 18-25, City of Shorter Alabama 1153. Carver Museum. Booker T Washington Home is nice, stately. This is Tuskegee University. Historic black college? Why did the entry guard ask if I was a student there? Maybe they have a few whites. Not sure. Just before I arrived there I saw a dead deer in a front yard looked like it had been there a while, and like something had chewed on it. 2 dogs sleeping nearby. I thought they were dead too at first. Looked like a murder scene. I honked & the dogs didn’t move. Then I pulled into the nearby driveway and one of the dogs lazily sat up and looked my way. Cars in the driveway seemed like somebody was home. Why do they let a dead deer remain in their front yard? Only in Louisiana.
Here’s the Tuskegee Airmen field operated by the NPS-. Not much to see- a few signs re the history. The historic district is mostly boarded up. That’s a new thing every city now calls their dilapidated downtown area the “historic district.” Here’s Briggs & Stratton- headquarters? (No I guess not. Maybe a production facility). Walmart in Opelika tried to by 2 new pair of shoes once again the same brand rang up “no sale” like what happened near West Monroe. But this time the clerk knew exactly what to do she put in the number and I was able to make the purchase. Previously the 2 different clerks either didn’t know what to do or were playing dumb but the clerk at customer service surely would have or should have known. I think they were being racist towards me. They were both black. Got gas in Auburn AL for $2.97 10 gallons $30. Bad decision– could have gotten it for $2.85. Now at Auburn University 1pm. Chattahoochee River 246 Entering Georgia 303pm,
added power steering fluid 328, over the Chattahoochee into Georgia. City of West Point & Lake, City of LaGrange 313, City of Hogansville 342, City of Grantville 348, City of Newnan 353 Fulton County 408 #PrayTheNews: Blank said “Nobody cares about the Uyghurs.” Slept in Atlanta.
1/19/22 Wednesday Thru Atlanta “take custody of the eyes’ “Covenant eyes” on Relevant Radio. McDonalds at 7 am, added oil. City of Suwanee 737. A Jones non sequiturs re 1) they’re decapitating childrens’ genitals; & 2 they’re coming at us with bioethics (he meant bio warfare). Jentzen Franklin church 736, 1st patch of snow I see 745, Hoschton Georgia 8am City of Jefferson 809 am Ty Cobb Museum nearby. Ernst Van Diver Highway, billboard re 12 injured bears near here. Exit for Clemson University. Dekams new address 109 Sagratti 56128? WHAT’S that a warehouse? Hartwell Lake enter South Carolina 10:13 now eastern standard time. Gas for $2.83 at 10:43 $28.60 ten gallons. So many cops along the road around here. City of Clemson and University 1030am, lots of students going to classes. Moe Joe Coffee. City of Central SC 1110 am City of Norris SC, pastor Lon on radio (Lon Solomon?) City of Liberty, City of Easely 1137, or 1148, City of Greenville High noon Fluor Stadium City of Spartanburg 1253 pop 35000, giant peach or “peachoid” 2pm BMW headquarters? No again. Another production plant. South Wesleyan Univ 1115. Middle Tyger River? What was the Tuskegee experiment? Funny somebody just mentioned it on the radio & I just drove thru there earlier. Eric Clapton on radio “I get off on 57 Chevy’s” Wofford College, Converse College Exit to Cowpers battlefield revolutionary war something about the historic Scruggs House
#PrayTheNews: re Malik McDowell NFL – strange incident. Rest Area nap lunch to 315 Enter North Carolina Kings Mt. Also revolutionary War. City of Kings Mt. 520 City of Lowell 336 Joe
Piscopo sitting in for Gorka again. Dale Earnhardt Blvd 419. 91.1
FM WYFG good Christian station Song re “Only a Prayer Away.” City of Concord 301, City of Kannapolis, evangelism (EV), song: “Born on a Bayou” CCR” and ‘Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce. City of Archdale 506pm, overhead electric signs warning of new storm tomorrow as I approach Virginia. It never happened as far as I know– it got bitterly cold- but dry- no snow or ice.Easy to confuse: there’s a Charlotte NC, and a Charleston SC, & Charlottesville VA. I love Charleston so historic. Here’s city of Greensboro NC 511. Here’s High Point University never heard of it. Deep River 511, Cape Fear Basin. Gas for $3.05 Greensboro 520pm, Fill gas now have 724 mile range. Popcorn Burlington– decided to start driving again thru the night to avoid the storm later that apparently never actually happened. Now 749 pm, near here is Duke University in Durham. Also UNC (Chapel Hill), as well as NC State (Raleigh). Very close together. It’s a Wolf Moon! Got a few pics of it- the first full moon of the new year.
ENTER Virginia 847, Roanoke River 851 near the Brunswick Byways – too bad I’m driving at night. Took 4 hour nap at rest area. Now 2 am driving again. I rarely drive at night if I can avoid it. Petersburg 227 am. Here’s Johnson Smith University. Here’s Philip Morris in Richmond with a gigantic Marlboro Cigarette in front of it. Oh. This is an actual factory here I notice as I just googled it. There’s an old article from 1993 about touring it. Not sure if they still do. Next time I‘ll try to drop in. 1/20/22 Thursday Happy Birthday to who? Arthur Ashe Blvd. Here’s PoWhite Parkway. Later I noticed something called PoHick. Both in Virginia Good grief. Why don’t they change these names for self-respect? Kings Dominion Amusement Park. #PrayTheNews: Tonga hit by tsunami after underwater volcano. The James River cuts thru Richmond. Quantico 415. Gas for $3.05 no receipt 352 am. Thornburg VA.
Near Fredericksburg, Rappahannock River, 4am, blood donation $65 Birthday message from MijNil. Now Driving by the National Mall Wash DC, I can hear a Cincinnati radio station from here
WLW 700 AM radio. I see them setting up for the march for Life tomorrow. I will be there. The SFLA conference in 2 days will require a negative covid test for entry. So I schedule a free test at the CVS lab- and drive by there in advance to see where it is and parking details. Later I come back and park at the meter with the intention of paying in a few minutes but first I crawl in the back of my vehicle to take care of a few things– and the next thing I know I see somebody by my front windshield– in less than 10 minutes parked there I had gotten a $30 ticket. I yelled to the meter maid telling here I had just pulled up. She responded “There’s no way I know how long you have been here” I wanted to yell a few more things at her. These people are so robotic – seemingly devoid of life passion compassion etc.... They kill the spirit of life. I bite my tongue bit the bullet and retreat back to my vehicle. In the long run coming here to this spot of the city would turn out to be a bigger blessing because only a block up ahead there is one of the only free parking spots in the entire DC area – and when I came back later I would find an empty spot that I used for 3 days helping me avoid a lot of headaches and hassle and more meters or parking garages for the next 3 days. So Praise the Lord. But it still annoys me. But I was blessed too.
Did some evangelism near Constitution Ave 350 pm. Here’s the Trump Hotel. Massachusetts Ave 4pm, Mt. Vernon Square. Thumbs up to guard. Dept of Labor Bldg., Independence Ave, Hubert Humphrey Building 412 pm, Disabled American Veterans monument. Capitol Building x6. Buzzard Point. Sad thing re Wash DC is how many will happily settle for mindless jobs. Here’s Nationals Stadium baseball team. also from here I see the Washington Spirits stadium (women’s pro soccer) aka Audi Field?) Here’s Washington Navy Yard: “ The Washington Navy Yard (WNY) is the former shipyard and ordnance plant of the United States Navy in Southeast Washington, D.C. It is the oldest shore establishment of the U.S. Navy. The Yard currently serves as a ceremonial and administrative center for the U.S. Navy, home to the
Chief of Naval Operations, and is headquarters for the Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Reactors, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Naval History and Heritage Command, the National Museum of the United States Navy, the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General's Corps, Marine Corps Institute, the United States Navy Band, and other more classified facilities.” -Wiki- Now passing by Maya Angelo School, Minnesota & Pennsylvania street. Prince George County. Marvin Gaye recreation area. 1st Baptist Highland Park is a big building. Here’s Redskins Stadium (or former Redskins, (they just announced their new name is the Commanders), aka RFK Field or Fed Ex Field among others? 507 pm Maybe Bank of America Stadium too. I see different names in big letters on the stadiums. Back by Independence Ave. Here’s the USA Botanic Gardens 543. 1/20/22 continues: found great SL spot on 14th & D new Southwest Federal Center & Holocaust Museum & Abe Lincoln Park and short walking distance from National Mall. One of the very few all day free spots in Wash DC. Lucky me. This trumps the unfair $30 parking citation. Prayer Vis: extra black & tall gray. 12 noon arriving at the March for Life Rally– TONS of people here already. It’s High noon. Singer Matt West on zoom. 1pm started walking toward SCOTUS & Cap bldg. We saw a Supreme Court justice peeking thru the window.
Signs I saw: 1) I am the post-Roe generation was very popular, 2) Love Gives Life, 3) What about Innocent unborn babies rights? 4) Abortion Takes a Human Life, 5) Choose Mercy, Choose Life, 6) Argentina banner, did they come all the way? 7) Abortion Stops a Beating Heart 8) God Says to Protect the Weak, 9) Pray to End Abortion 10) Jesuit New Orleans Pro-Life Club 11) Former Fetuses United for Life 12) Catholic Central from Grand Rapids caught my eye 13) pro-Life pro-Vida 14) Killing Children Should be Against the Law 15) Calling Murder a Choice DOESNT Justify it 16) There’s Still a Plan for the Unplanned 17) I’m Glad My Mom Chose
Life 18) Build a Wall around Planned Parenthood. It’s Time to Trump Abortion 19) Catholics are Pro-Life, 20) I’m NOT a choice 21) Americans were born to be FREE. If only they were FREE to be BORN. 22) Every Life is Sacred; 23) God Loves Babies 24) 24) Father Forgive Them, They Know Not What they Do; 25) Women Deserve Better than Abortion 26) The Future is anti-Abortion 27) Jesus Loves the Unborn 28) Right to Life Long Island 29) Stop Hating Each other because you Disagree 30) LOVE THEM BOTH (widespread ) 31) Unborn Babies Feel Joy 32) Unrepentant KillersLake of Fire 33) Wilmington For Life 34) a Person is a Person No Matter How Small 35) I Regret My Abortion 36) Dismantle Roe 37) Ask Me About a Free Ultrasound 38) Diocese of Toledo 39) I am NOT a choice 40) Babies Lives Matter 41) Stop All Abortion 42) New Jerseyans For Life 43) Face it: Abortion Kills a Person 44) I am pro-Abundant Life (good one) 45) It is a Poverty that a Child Must Die so that You May Live as you Wish (Mother Theresa) 46) Missouri Blacks For Life 47) Love Life, Choose Life 48) After Roe, There is Life 49) Equality Begins in the Womb 50) Colorado Christian University 50b) Women’s Rights are Human Rights. No Human has the Right to Take a Life; 51) Mt. St. Mary Seminary 52) Former Fetuses United for Life 53) Abortion is Only Legal because the Unborn Can’t Vote 54) Covid Jabs are Abortion Tainted.
Watched the marchers arrive at SCOTUS building. This event is MUCH bigger than West Coast Walk for LIfe. I talked to or AT a few capitol police about Ashley Babbitt. One of them was very defensive. Me thinks he doth protest too much. I mentioned Michael Byrd too. A few people started chanting “Michael Byrd should be in jail.” Bitterly cold. The lake in front of the Cap Bldg. is frozen. Bought coffee for $2.10 at the NPS cafe. Made it back to the car and slept well starting the car a few times thru the night for heat. 8am walking taking bus for $2 over towards the zoo area which also happens to be the Students for Life conference area at the historic Omni Shoreham hotel. Signs show some of the events that happened here including the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, etc. For many years I
went to the West Coast Students for Life conference at the St. Mary Church but a few years ago they ended it not sure why because it was always full of students. This conference in Wash DC continues–and much bigger and former VP Mike Pence is one of the speakers. I was actually planning on going to the zoo, and maybe the conference but I saw so many people heading to the conference I just joined the flow. I had already gotten a covid test– thinking they would be checking it– but they didn’t. So much for that. It’s become a farce everywhere. People going thru the motions of saying they will be checking your “papers” etc. just to please the mindless bureaucracy. I saw Mike Pence speak-. Pretty good. Lots of passion from Pence. Some republicans have denounced Pence after the Election Fraud transition but I don’t think he had much real choice. The truth will come out in due time every day we hear new revelations that are incontrovertible. After hearing numerous passionate speakers at Students for Life including Trent Horn, Kevin Roberts, Kristan Hawkins, John Seago, Chelsey Youman, Liz Wheeler etc. I walked over to th nearby zoo the Smithsonian national zoo. So cold a lot of animals were not on exhibit. But the pandas were walking around pretty fun to see them. I didn’t stay too long. Nice thing is it’s a free zoo. And I found a free city bus as well not the metro but the “circulator”-- maybe supposed to be one dollar not sure, but my paper dollar didn’t work so they sad go ahead. But then I also saw a sign that said the bus is free right now? Which is it?
After the zoo I took “the circulator” over to National Mall and went to some of the museums, including Hirshhorn Futures Museum ( bad bag lady guard here but I got the last word at the snarling oversized bully lady). Also strolled thru the Smithsonian Castle I guess it is formally known as the Smithsonian Institution Building. I thought I saw a cross on top made me think it was a church at first. after this I went over to the National Gallery and appreciated some of the art work. – The underground people mover was cool too. From there I was pretty tired so I walked over to nearby St.
Dominics Church as I entered I saw hands on the door and a black guy disappeared inside as if he had been watching me approach. I just sat down and prayed for a while-. This guy was roaming around the church- not sure what that was all about he wasn’t a security guard but looked a bit down & out. Prayers for him. Went back to car- and past the holocaust museum. NFL game starting: Titans vs Bengals. Interception on very first play.
1/23/22 Sunday Morning 8 am back to St. Dominics for morning mass. IT’s near the Spy Museum. Still very cold. Now walking to the Vaccine mandate protest #DefeatTheMandates 1030 1st stop at Washington Memorial where they are gathering with their signs and from there will walk to the Lincoln Memorial. Lots of people here. That’s good. I leave early over to the Lincoln Memorial past the Lincoln Reflection Pool which is frozen and solid enough to walk on – even jump on- at one end, but the other end not so sturdy. People DO ice skate here sometimes- even though it is technically illegal. NO signs saying “Stay off the ice” but I looked it up on internet. Now at Lincoln Memorial lots of security on top of the memorial looking like they’re expecting trouble but as usual we are the peaceful ones . They are the ones looking for trouble. Not us.
Same thing as January 6 that was a scam - not an insurrection-, or if it was an insurrection it was engineered by lefties posing as patriots against Trump. Those of us patriots who are the real deal were looking for a 10 day inauguration postponement to investigate election fraud. IT was the LEFTIES who did NOT want this to happen. They engineered an “incident” at the Capitol. And you notice the only ones left dead were patriots- not any of the guards or police. The one officer who did die happened to coincidentally have a stroke the NEXT DAY. And by the way, they say he was a Trump supporter too. Good grief. And the lefties are still acting as if they were the victims. They’re still ALL alive and well. Anyways, I did go to the BIG rally where Trump was speaking but never made it over to the Capitol Bldg. because both my phones mysteriously died. I
needed to go back to my car to recharge the phones. It may have been due to the cold bitter cold as usual in January in WashDC. So I walked around the Lincoln Memorial while they were singing the National Anthem and some of the guards actually walked around it too watching me from atop the memorial. I just wanted to get a picture from different angles. I had to wave them onwards so they weren’t in the photo. Ridiculous. Talking about looking for trouble where it isn’t. Anyways, there is SO MUCH goose poop on the back side of the Lincoln Memorial it was like playing hopscotch walking around it. Won’t do that again. One of the speakers is Dr Aaron Kheriaty a psychiatry professor from UCI or was at UCI– he just got fired for refusing to get injected. He’s also outspoken about his Catholic faith. Seems like a good guy. I’ve heard him speak a few times over the years in southern Cal. And now here’s Dr. Robert Malone another wise guy who is warning about the danger of the injections. He’s actually one of the founders of mRNA technology– and they’re trying to silence him. The speakers repeat that this is a money grab by Big Pharma it’s all about the money. Not about our health. I believe it. Stayed for a while at the Mandate Protest then left a bit early to go donate blood. Bruised arm the next day. Scheduled payment to Cap1.
Monday Jan 24 gas for $2.95, total $42, plus free air near 5- Forks Battlefield & Cottage Farm Petersburg VA. While getting gas a bl man in pickup did some virtue signaling. NFL Bucs Lose to Rams, Chiefs Defeat the Bills, 49ers Over the Packers, Bengals Take down the Titans. Now near Richard Bland College of WIlliam & Mary. Stopped at the Walmart picked up some brown organic eggs, cranberries, veggies, cheese, water, chips, salad material, turkey pepperoni, new sweatshirt had to take it to customer service because it wouldn’t ring up. Also laundry detergent. 11:15 south out of Petersburg, John’s Hole Swamp 1120, Passed the Richmond Philip Morris before Petersburg with the giant cigarette in front. It always catches my eye. I guess they used to have tours here...- not sure if they still do. Sometime if it’s warm when I’m passing thru I
will stop in. took a break by stony creek park 1145 to 1210 my arm is bruised. Sign says “Burn headlights when using wipers” wow that’s old English – Burn headlights? City of Jarratt 1221 blue star highway, Rotterdam Swamp 1227 City of Emporia Greensville, City of Skippers Virginia 1245, Entering North Carolina 1250 Roanoke River City of Weldon, still snow on ground , Historic Albemarle Highway, Halifax County. #PrayTheNews: Federal Gov warms Americans to leave Ukraine. Olympics about to begin in China. City of Halifax. Underground Railroad trail near here. Tavern built in 1790 looks new. City of Enfield Fishing Creek 147pm, City of Battleboro 157pm, Nash County 150, Here’s a Pfizer location (boo hiss) -- production plant, Rocky Mt. NC. City of Sharpsburg NC 227, City of Wilson 239, Whirligig Museum (outdoors) is pretty cool 3pm, Toisnot Swamp, City of Fremont NC 328, City of Pikeville 233, Botanic Garden 309.
Some people say “Sir” or “boss” to try to control you– to make you serve them. Their use of salutations is not intended for respect but for manipulation. City of Goldbsoro 346 & Goldsboro Bridge Battlefield from Civil War. Very slow train crossing. Wayne County. University of Mt. Olive. “The University of Mount Olive (UMO or Mount Olive) is a private university in Mount Olive, North Carolina. Chartered in 1951, the university is sponsored by the Original Free Will Baptist Convention and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.[4] A member of the NCAA Division II Conference Carolinas, its sports teams compete as the Mount Olive Trojans.”wiki-. City of Faison 423 pm, City of Magnolia 444pm, City of Burgaw 522 pm, City of Rose Hill 452p, City of Wallace 5p, City of Warsaw 435p, world’s largest frying pan is covered up, Morgan Zegers on Gorka show re fighting socialism, sound sharp, very intelligent , Young Americans Against Socialism see https://yaas.org/. Also Gorka has a new site https://gorka.locals.com/. Now near Moores Creek Battlefield 532p,
Tuesday 2022 January 25 slept near Wilmington NC, here’s a national cemetery, here’s Museum of the Bizarre, North Carolina was a confederate state. Bridge over Cape Fear River. now city of Leland NC 832, and City of Belville 834 #PrayTheNews: Ukraine, Taiwan, World War 3, China, Russia, Malta (covid), Tonga (tsunami ), Brunswick County, 923am paid the DC parking ticket $30 (Cit No. 8232649062, date received 1/20/22 at 2:10pm, Officer Kibler (black female, I saw her & talked to her). Shallote Township Park 10:11. Pulled into McDonalds at 930 to take care of business–suddenly 2 workers were putting a new post in right in front of my car. I hear somebody say “Is anybody in there? “Good grief. I tried to park where I wouldn’t be bothering anybody. Brunswick Golf Course, Crow Creek Golf Course, River Hills Golf, Eagle Nest Golf.
Entering South Carolina 1025am, 2 hours North Myrtle Library 122 dictation. Barefoot golf 2:12 I guess there’s no helmet law here in SC. now at North Myrtle Beach AMC discount Tuesday for the Scream Movie- not my type of movie but I do #PrayTheMovies: and sometimes must go to a film whether I want to or not. Here’s the notes: house girl phone, no answer, Tera would you like to play a game. Hello? Is Christian? Tell her Charlie called. “Elevated horror.” This isn’t Amber. About “Stab Movie” she dies? Sister in boyfriend. Now in Modesto CA. theatre employee. Tara is alive but bad shape. A ghost in face. Vince the greaser. Bi-racial couple. Stab movie. Now at hospital. Sister visits Crying. Sam is Tara’s sister. Vince has switchblade, old school greaser – outdated. Doesn’t work anymore. They visit the victim at the hospital. Sam ghosted the family at age 18, Other guy got woman pregnant. Dad was behind me. Heard the whole thing. I didn’t know. He didn’t know. Ghost face stabber now attacks at hospital. Real Father Billy Loman a serial killer. Bi-racial couple of course. Gotta have that in movies these days. I’m Sydney Prescott of course, Woodsboro County.
#PrayTheMovies: Thou Shall Not Murder. They say Sam is the killer. “She’s psychotic”- no she’s not. Amber a killer. And Sam’s (Samantha) boyfriend Richie. Sheriff Hicks son was killed too. Samantha show up. Why Modesto? Looks like east coast, not Modesto area. Why nobody in hospital? Why is the hospital empty and all dark? Not realistic. He thought he killed ghost face but he didn’t. So this was Scream 5? I hadn’t even heard of it until now. The 2 killers want to re-write the movie. We had to bring back the legacy characters. Then Sam slits the throat of Richie to end it. Yay. It’s over.
This mall in Myrtle Beach is a ghost town. Nobody here. How do they stay in business? Spring break crowd pays for the whole year? There is a cool old school video arcade here with pacman, and pinball, and other old school video games– but not asteroids– my favorite-. I used to play it at Stop & Go at the corner of Alger & Eastern back in the 70’s. I got pretty good at it and was able to “Turn it Over” many times, but Cam VanderSloot was the king of asteroids. Wonder what happened to Cam? Nice family. After movie went to Fed Ex Office and printed some new Christ cards. The QR codes aren’t working for some reason. Still in Myrtle Beach.
#PrayTheNews: Flint Michigan is going into perpetual “virtual education” because of covid phobia. Ridiculous. Waterways Hills golf course 447, here’s Doug White Avenue. And Joe White Avenue. Now leaving Myrtle Beach, entering Garden City 517. There’s a restaurant chain here called “California Dreamin.” Passing Murrels Inlet 527– stopped here last time – cool wharf area.. Circle K gas 10th Ave $2.93 for $38 total, 13 gallons. Guy on radio saying we should call the Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 and “DEMAND AN INVESTIGATION” re mandates in the military especially now that DOD whistleblower attorney Thomas Renz and others saying there’s been a “1000 % increase in neurological problems in the military , and 300% increase in cancer, as well as 300% increase in
miscarriages.” Pawley Plantation Golf course. Slept at Holiday Inn north of Charleston in Mt. Pleasant South Carolina. Police sometime during the night left a note on my car saying my car was an invitation to thieves because there was too much visible thru the window. Hmm. This doesn’t seem like an area where thieves prowl. But I appreciate the friendly note. Now across the beautiful bridge to Charleston – just in time for 9am mass at the cathedral. After mass I drove around, past Colonial Lake, alongside the Battery, Here’s Charleston College (lots of students walking to class) I notice a horseshoe was coming off the horse pulling the buggy for the tourists and alerted the drive who couldn’t see it. He said thanks and said he could “hear it.” Didn’t seem too alarmed about it. Past the tourism office somebody glared at me. Fort Sumter monument. Now walking the Charleston Bridge to halfway point makes it 2.5 miles total. Saw the Philip Simmons house. Back at car parked by College of Charleston and walked thru the campus–historic architecture here as well– like everywhere in Charleston-. This is the “oldest municipal college” in the USA founded in 1770but didn’t start as a municipal college. Started as private. Here’s the famous Cistern at the campus. Nice grassy area with old architecture. A few people fencing ie playing with swords. Also could see the Citadel another historic building but still used as an active military college. Stepped inside the Grace Episcopal Cathedral- , now 224 pm, overcast day rested a few hours. Now back at Grace Cathedral (episcopal) for Wednesday evening mass at 530pm. Waited a few minutes because of the watcher standing in front. After episcopal I drove to Daniel Island for the event at the country club where a speaker was talking about efforts to save old Charleston architecture. Hope they continue to preserve it. Found a hotel for the night. Thursday January 27 7 am donating blood again this time in North Charleston. Bal now 900. Over the Wallace River 935, Caw Caw Park 940, Edisto Beach 950, Christ Plant on the radio, City of Jacksonboro, Chehaw River 1014, Harriet Tubman Bridge 1017, Port Royal Sound 1027. Sheldon
Church Ruins built in 1751, burned down in Revolutionary War. Remnants remain. Poco Taligo River 1035, Now we’re in South Carolina “low country.” Tulliffiny River 1040 Blue Heron Park is peaceful. Here’s the Great Swamp 1114am, City of Switzerland? City of Hardeeville. Widening project on highway 17. Bagshaw Swamp 1115am, Bahama Swamp, Savanna NWR. High noon mass at Cathedral, leaving Savannah 130 pm. Ogeechee River 151p past the Georgia Botanic Gardens– should stop in there some time.. Good lunch smoked turkey sandwich. Pulled thru the McDonalds drive-thru in Ridgeland SC at 1107 and ordered an unsweetened ice tea. Paid for it at the 1st window. Then waited at the 2nd window…and waited…and waited. I finally honked and the gal opened the window and said “Can you please be patient. Blah blah? Really? Be patient for an ice tea? That’s a 15 second order to fill. I’ve NEVER waited more than 60 seconds for an ice tea at McDonalds drive thru. SO I finally just left. I paid and didn’t receive. Ridiculous.
#PrayTheNews: Breyer announces retirement from SCOTUS. Or did he? Apparently he did NOT announce it, but somebody leaked it and they’re trying to force him out. Just north of Riceboro City at 221 nice fishin spot here. Remember that next time. Prayers for the man pulling 7 wagons tied to each other. Sign on the back said “Please help.” Here’s a dead boar at 207. See them once in a while down south in places. City of Midway. City of Chatmann 222 (or community). Search: Fort Morris (Revolutionary War). This section of hwy 17 is part of the “Liberty Trail” City of Retreat (or community) 223. Here’s the “smallest church” (stopped here once) near south Newport (or Townsend GA). Cathead Creek 253. Darrien Creek. Back on I-95. Butler River. Champney River. Buck Hill Swamp 237. refill water at rest area. City of Brunswick FL 315. Numerous large water crossings. S Brunswick River 318pm. Virginia & Georgia were 2 of the highest slaves states (numerically speaking). Canoe Swamp Creek 330. Bush family robbed Howard Hughes? That’s what somebody is saying on the radio. Crooked
River 339. Book called “The Inheritance: Poisoned Fruit of JFK”s Assassination” being discussed on the radio. By Chris Fulton. Amelia River 408p. Now Entering Florida 345p Hiked around Egan’s Creek Fernandina 415-515 too cold. Local dude dressed like he thought this was Alaska. Drove thru “historical American Beach” 530 - the only Florida beach to allow blacks back in the day. You can drive on American Beach– if you have 4 wheel or all-wheel drive. BEAKS wildlife sanctuary 550. Leaving Amelia Island. Thru the Talbot area. Fort George Island 558. Batten Island 557. Bridge over Sisters Creek 6pm. So much open wetland space that will always be here. Beware plummeting iguanas in Florida because of cold. They just stiffen up– can’t move– can’t cling to branch– fall off. They’ll come back to life when it warms up. Clapboard Creek Bridge 605. Blount Island. 1/28/22 slept in Jacksonville. Friday. It rained all night. Cool & overcast. Basilica noon mass. Mustard seed message. Karpeles Museum Jacksonville. Unique. Jax county libraries want $2 to use computer. Most libraries offer free computers. BJ gas $3.09 if member.. I didn’t realize it but guy at next pump waved his member card for me so I could get cheaper gas, 19 gallons $60. How many car dealerships does Coggin own in Jacksonville. His name is all over just about every car dealership. Saturday January 29 2022 730 am mass, Basilica. Italian priest. Hwy 1 toward Augustine. Long night. Sore hip, Jacksonville now towards St. Augustine. the McDonalds in J-ville was not yet open at 8 am... So I tried the Bk across the street and they were out of coffee and out of orange juice. Problems in J-viIlle. J-ville is not a tourist friendly town. Duval County is huge.
#PrayTheNews: Australian Ash Barty wins the Australian Open good for Australia morale. Here’s another Coggin dealership. It’s 37 degree at 7am in J-ville. Passing near by the World Golf Hall of Fame. Arriving at Augustine 920 am, now St. Johns County. Tried to go to a Flagler College basketball game but they take cash only.
Funny these days you never know some places are cash only, other places are card only. Walked around old town Augustine. Now 2:09 pm... did some maps evangelism, they pray the rosary at 430 now to the basilica for 5pm mass in St. Augustine beautiful cathedral. Man in old school tan overcoat with wife came in and sat in front of me. Made me feel uncomfortable. Left early. Now leaving St. Augustine 6pm. Moultrie Creek 603. Not a lot of fence or gated communities around here. Nice. Canada Truckers for Freedom getting some attention (anti- mandates). Ezra Levant talking about it on the AJ show. Boston area hit hard by snow storm. I am listening to a Boston station way down here in north Florida its 14 degrees up there. And 2 feet of snow. Passed thru rest area and it was totally full people use it on a regular basis to sleep in their cars. Wow. I Slept in Sanford near Blue Springs holiday inn, Seminole County.
Sunday January 30 Donated blood in Orlando suburb at 7am, then Made it to downtown Orlando for 9am mass at St. James Cathedral. This is the only day of the week when parking meters are free. From St. James I walked over to the Episcopal for 10 am. But suddenly noticed my credit card was missing so I called it in thinking I put it on hold until I hopefully found it again=- which I did 30 minutes later in my shirt pocket , so I called back to reactivate it and they tell me they had cancelled it– I needed a brand new one. Good grief. Not this again. I argued and yelled etc. but they would not or literally could not reactivate it. Ridiculous. Problem is waiting for a new one-. Last time this happened I was in Vancouver WA and had to wait almost 2 weeks for what was supposed to take 5 days. They will expedite but require customer to pay $16. I demanded they waive the expedite fee since it was their fault but they refused again. They are so greedy. I’ve been a good customer for so long and make my full payments on time rarely carry over a balance. Well that’s a good customer for me, but not for them– they don’t make any money from customers like me. A good customer is a bad customer ironic. Damn them. I hate them. I really do hate them. I think it’s
allowable to hate a faceless organization it’s not un-Christian. I hate faceless organizations where no single person has any accountability. The one time I tried to use the procedure to contest a fraudulent charge they failed me on this as well. I should change credit card companies. But aren’t they all the same? After Episcopal walked over to Downtown Baptist they were having communion. 1030am. Then to the Presbyterian at 1115– didn’t like the preacher’s style– he’s talking about Saturday Night Live, and he’s all over the map in his unprepared sermon, also mentions being covenant Presbyterian- (more conservative, that’s fine with me, but he seems loosy goosy). Left early. Also wondered why there are police in the sanctuary. Here and also at the Episcopal? Police officers inside the church during the service have a bad chilling effect. After Presbyterian I walked towards Eola Lake and noticed the Greek Orthodox across the street. Beautiful inside. The sermon had just started. Liked it. Love the beauty. Afterwards back over by the lake briefly– the Disney Amphitheatre is nice. Still kind of cold.
Then I stopped in at Orange Library the main library they want $5 dollars to use a computer. Ridiculous. Then I went over to the orange history center paid the $6 entry fee. Enjoyed the history and especially the dragon exhibit. The gal at the entry was nice too. Noticed Orland Magic have a game tonight at the Amway Center. Of course Amway & the DeVos family has a little bit of special significance to me because of their Grand Rapids history. Their son Doug was a few years older than me same high school. And they are Christian Reformed (or were). Not sure if still. And they still own the Orland Magic. So I got a cheap ticket for $15 bucks and went to the 7pm game– 1st time inside here... Big photo of Rich DeVos (RIP) on the wall inside. 1st half looked like Dallas was going to blow out the Magic but Orlando creeped back. And at halftime it was nearly a tie game. Nonetheless I was bored and left early and more interested in listening to the Rams vs 49ers game. And the Rams win. This is the Year of the Rams! Although even this doesn’t excite me much all the pro sports in southern Cal have
become way OVER PRICED- especially NBA & NFL- IT’S not much fun to live there. MLB is still fairly reasonable but Dodgers are getting a bit outrageous. Lately. SO Rams will play Bengals in the Superbowl at SoFi in L.A. 2nd consecutive year the home team will be playing at their home venue in the Superbowl. Last yearTampa at Raymond James stadium.
Monday January 31 – started the day at St. Margaret in Winter Park for 8 am mass, 11 am to 1 pm, also to the Walmart. Then I went to the Maitland Library a suburb of Orlando to do some dictation. City of Casselberry nearby. After Maitland library 1st decent warm day in a long time– went over to Lake Lotus - Sybelia and cast my line briefly there were some gigantic fish in the shallows maybe carp-. But couldn’t get them to bite. I waded in the water. NO swimming allowed h ere. Not sure why. Enjoyed the sun. Drove around the area. There’s a Birds of Prey center here– closed on Monday. Spent rest of day doing maps evangelism.
Tuesday Feb 1 slept at Winter Park again at the Hampton Inn. #PrayTheNews: Russia not actually about to invade Ukraine says an “expert” on the AJ show. Others disagree. 8am back at St. Margaret for morning mass. Drove past the Winter Park golf course-so close to road I wonder how often golfers hit the nearby cars. After mass I stopped in at the Morse Museum from 930 to 1030- paid the $6 entry fee-. Black guard snapped at me to put my mask back up after I sneezed. I said “c’mon girl. You can see I just sneezed. It was the mask tickling my nose. Give me a moment. You’ve been following around just waiting to snap at me for something haven’t you? She says no. I mention my irritation to the Asian lady at the desk. She says she’s sorry for that. Will talk to the girl about it. They have a nice Tiffany collection here. IN fact it’s all about Tiffany.
From there I go over to the Rollins College Museum. As I drive up to the open parking spot a heavyweight black fellow yells “Hey Bro” not sure that’s so appropriate but that’s how they use salutations
to try to control people around them. I walk around the Rollins College museum for a while and then I go over to the public beach on Virginia Lake and cast my line for about 15 minutes– nothing biting. Warm enough to enjoy the water swimming allowed here so I do so wow so refreshing needed that. And a shower here too. Wonderful. And I lay on my towel on the grass in the sun warming up afterwards. From there I go to the Fed Ex Office Shipping location and pick up my new credit card that cost me $16 bucks to get expedited. At least this time I didn’t have to wait 2 weeks. Then I went to the NAVY FCU and made a withdrawal and transfer and also $220 payment to my auto insurance company. That covers almost 6 months. Then I was intending to go to a Tuesday discount movie at Altamonte AMC but I got there and was so tired I decided not to.
2/22/22 8am mass & ground hog day. Leaving Winter Park. Now driving thru Winter Garden 928 am. There’s a big lake here (Apopka) and a nice wildlife area which I will go to later Listen to good debate on the radio Mike Gallagher vs Mark Davis. Re Whoopi Goldberg. Here’s Fuller Cross Road. Driving past Montaverde Academy School nice campus. Had pastrami sandwich with pickles, tomatoes, mustard, cucumber, a little lettuce on Oat bread. Good enough. #PrayTheNews: CNN chief Zucker just got fired for not disclosing a relationship he was having with an employee. 10 am walked around the Oakland Nature Preserve. Not much here. But nice boardwalk. This is Lake County. City of Ferndale 1137. This must be one of the few places with hills in Florida? IN fact I google it as I’m driving. Britton Hill near Tallahassee is the highest point at 345 feet. And Sugarloaf MT. at 312 feet is the 5th highest that’s where I am. Keep going. Minneola by the Lakes.
More #PrayTheNews: Jim Harbaugh interviews for the Vikings job. But it’s not going to happen. Make it around the lake to the Apopka North Shore wildlife drive on Lust Road (no joke) it’s an 11 mile
drive but closed on weekdays except Friday Sat & Sun. but you can walk in so I did about a mile and back. Saw a few alligators including one of the hugest I’ve ever seen right near the entrance. Alligators must spent 90% of their lives sleeping. This is a premiere wildlife spot. Stayed here until 130-. Heading south again. Thru City of Windermere 154pm Here’s SeaWorld Orlando 321pm. Grande Lakes Resort looks nice. Shingle Creek Trail- by Hunter Creek MSsaw some nice birds by the creek. Slept at Hampton Inn by DisneyWorld.
Thursday Feb 3 2022 8am mass at Holy Cross church masks required here unlike most other Orlando churches. I’m so tired. Didn’t sleep well. After mass to McDonalds ice Tea Dr Pepper. And then to GatorLand it says$29 on their website, but I got charged $35 at the entry. Not sure why. Didn’t contest it at the time. This is an incredible place in terms of number of alligators. There’s different areas for different age alligators – and they lay on the docks some on top of each other. As I said they must spend 90% of their lives sleeping. People have a primitive instinctive fascination with alligators, me too. Wish they announced their show schedule the times. I missed the alligator “jumparoo” show at 1045. Just happened to arrive at the other show on time. And the next one, but had to wait until 430 for the next jumparoo show- which was actually rather boring. They barely jump. They simply stick their necks up for a half a chicken. They also have white gators here & Nile crocodiles as well as other crocodiles. & Salt water crocodiles. But mostly gators. Cool splash pad at gatorland too. TYGER.
After Gatorland I went back to McDonalds and enjoyed several free refills of mostly unsweetened ice tea, mixed with a few other flavorful drinks. 2 little girls playing and screaming nearby so happy with laughter. And their parents weren’t hovering over them. It made me happy. Friday 2/4/22 slept at Holiday Inn. 9am mass at Corpus Christi. City of Celebration FL– huge wild turkey in the parking lot beautiful. I walked right up to it and it was not very
afraid. Bad purse lady at Corpus Christi. Some of these ladies and their purses. Good grief. You ever walk into a place not having the slightest concern about money or thinking about money let alone wanting anybody else’s money and then you notice a lady conspicuously move their purse or pull it tighter. Probably 99.9% of the time nobody cares about their purse, but they’ve just “virtue signaled” that they are a little red riding hood and you are the big bad wolf. A lot of times it’s unethical and at church it is definitely un-Christian. I’ve written about this before. Ladies should not bring valuables to church if they are concerned about theft. The church is supposed to make people feel included, not excluded. I think God will hold these ladies accountable in the end time. I gave the lady a long hard stare after she did her virtue signaling and I think, I hope, she felt ashamed. I don’t want your damn purse or any of your money lady.
There was a strange silence after the reading of the gospel– usually after which there is a brief homily or sermon. But both of the 2 elderly priests just sat there silently. Then one of them looked at the other and said “Oh, is there going to be a sermon? I thought there was going to be a sermon” Everybody laughed. Then the other priest stood up and said a few words. That was the sermon. After the mass I went to the nearby Osceola county library just happened to see it and decided to stop in. It’s surrounded by a nice golf course. Spent about 90 minutes doing dictation narration. Leaving at 11:15am, back down the main street out of town (highway 192 like a mega 28th street. Anytime I call a road or area “a 28th street” I am referring to the 28th street in Grand Rapids which is a long strip of commercial businesses, car dealerships, fast food restaurants, etc. Most cities have one big or small. This one is big. Add the tourist shops as well. Here’s a place where you can shoot a machine gun. Here’s a giant orange tourist shop. Here’s the military history museum. On the radio somebody said “the vax mandate is a purity test” – politically speaking. It proves your devotion to the democrats, or that you are a lukewarm republican who wants to go with the
flow. Here’s a popular fishing lake Lake Tohopekaliga (Toho for short). Lots of bass boats. They say it’s one of the best in the world and host fishing contests here. Driving around it. Pull into park called “Brownie Wise.” Sit for a moment in my car and then get out to look around. As I step out an elderly man & wife pass by and the guy looks at my license plate I usually hate it when people start up a conversation based on your license plate or “where ya from.” I try to avoid that kind of “compartmentalization.” I’m NOT really from there but… blah blah... I grew up here and here & lived here and there, etc. So many of us in this day and age have moved around so much we do NOT identify with the “where ya from” conversation that some of the older people do who were born and raised & remained in the same place their whole lives. They limit themselves AND others in such regard. It seemed like he was trying to make sure my license plate tag was current as well. He stared so closely and long at it. What is he? A retired cop? Good grief. He was trying to act friendly. Mentioned his son in Oregon and driving out there & going thru Jackson WY etc. That’s enough of that. Not much to do at this park. No area for shore fishing either.
Driving back out I saw a medium-size turtle by the side of the road, like a dinner plate size looked like he was trying to dig a hole-. Googled this later and it says they do this either to lay eggs or stay cool. I’m thinking he was trying to stay cool– this was an unusually hot day for central Florida for this time of year. Girl on scooter at the intersection made me flash back to the scooter gal who got hit hard by a pickup truck last year in the Tampa area. It happened right in front of me. She easily could have been killed. She needed an ambulance and it wouldn’t surprise me if she had numerous broken bones. I prayed every day for her for a while afterwards. Hope she pulled thru. It wasn’t her fault either. It was totally the driver of the truck although he tried to claim the scooter didn’t have a headlight. I think it DID. Impossible to know for sure after the fact since the scooter was shattered into 100 pieces all over the place. Passing by Disston Sugar Mill Ruins. Now my AC is not
working. Not this again. It runs hot the entire day, but the next day it’s working again. Only quits working when it’s hot? City of St. Cloud 1243, gas for $3.49, 25 gallons, Lake Kissimmee at 215. Bald eagle? Cypress Lake & Wild Florida the competition for Gatorland. Horse circle that’s called a “mechanical hot walker.” I’ve seen them before but never actually being used. There were 4 horses running round and round in a circle. Here’s a farm Sprinkler spraying over the road – free wash again. Went thru it on the way in as well. Had to stop and wipe off the mirrors so it wouldn’t be speckled with water drops. Is this Lake Marian now 240 pm? Fun Fact: They say the minimum speed for cruise control in most cars is 25 mph. Some parts of Florida such as this are nothing special in terms of geography. Could be in the middle of Nebraska for all I know if I had landed on a parachute. No offense to Nebraska. Now entering Indian River County 310p, 2 more bald eagles in nests by road. Maybe not Nebraska.
Actually every state except Hawaii has some bald eagles. Some many more than others. See Bald Eagle Population Estimates (For 49 U.S. States) - Wildlife Informer. Here’s Fort Drum Marsh conservation area.. Now arriving at Vero Beach 341- this is where the Dodgers used to do their spring training the ball field is still here and still used for various baseball and other events. Got gas for $3.17 using the GetUpside app. 16.57 gallons for $56 at 4315 20th St. on 2/4/22. Finally made it to the beach and enjoyed a beautiful swim in the wavy Atlantic ocean big enough waves to body surf and water so warm you don’t even think about getting out because you’re cold. But not many swimming like me. Most just walking. They think it’s still too cold. Slept at Hampton Inn. So humid.
Saturday Feb 5, 2022 730 am mass at St. Helen, and then I came back at 830 for their 2nd mass. Then I went over to the Walmart. Drizzling overcast day but not cold. Sunday Feb 6 – big church day today. I use Sundays to try to visit as many churches as possible when I am in a new area. I like to get a few protestant (Methodist,
Presbyterian, Lutheran etc.) and a few catholic, and if possible an episcopal and orthodox as well. I start the day at 730 mass at the big Catholic Church, St. John of the Cross. From there I leave early and catch the 8am Episcopal listened to the homily. Cop at the entry not sure why. Leave a little early and go to the 9 am at 1st Baptist heard a full sermon based on 2 Chronicles. & took some notes. Left a bit early and another guy exited right on my heels. That always feels weird when that happens. 945 am Methodist contemporary service too many greeters feel like you’re entering on a red carpet. I like to enter and exit inconspicuously. This setting is too small. Not comfortable. I leave and a guy sort of watches me in the hallway trying to act like he’s just milling about– but he’s definitely been assigned to be ‘security.” I walked down the wrong hallway looking for the restroom and had to double back. Awkward. The guy just stares. Why doesn’t he ask me if he can help me?? I see the restroom and duck in. Then I come out and leave.
From there I go to the gigantic community church all these churches are in walking distance of each other like a block or two. It stresses me out that we can’t get all people to come together as the Body of Christ. It must break God’s heart too. We need UNITY. This is a United Church of Christ (UCC) -- I feel comfortable here because there’s a lot of people and nobody immediately identifies me as a visitor. I listen to the sermon and then go back to the Methodist for the traditional service at 11 more comfortable here. Finally, after this I go to the Catholic church by the beach near Riverside Park. This is a nice setting too. Afterwards I go over to the beach and take a nice body surf swim great exercise. Take a nap. Then one more church service back at St. Helens– that’s like 7 or 8 church services in one day. Not bad. Slept at Hampton Inn Vero Beach.
Monday Feb 7 heading south, cast my line at Indrio Savannahs Preserve. Saw some bass jumping but nuthin bitin. Onward another little natural area called the Moore Preserve with a disc golf course,
aka Lucie Heritage preserve with a boardwalk - near the Indian River. 10 to 1030 onward entering city of Fort Pierce 1034. One of their most popular areas is the Jetty Park along the Indian River–lots of people fishing on the pier. Tourists walking. Some on the beach. Saw lady catch a glittery silvery fish kind of diamond shaped. Walked around there then went back to the south causeway area where there’s a bit of a beach and fishing– I cast my line a few times and also took a brief swim 12 to 1230 Across the channel is the Navy Seal Museum which looks cool but it’s closed on Monday. Surfers also on the north side of the jetty, not south. Looked like decent waves from a distance. This is all part of Hutchison Island I think, from Jetty Park on the north end to the Bathtub Reef on the south. Here’s Bear Point Sanctuary 1255. John Brooks Park Beach 1256, Frederick Douglas Park Beach (waves) 1257.
Tons of public beaches with free parking along here. Middle Cove beach, Blind Creek Beach 119pm. Walton Rocks Beach 122 (dogs allowed. I went swimming here and one of the free roaming dogs followed me into the water. The owner came chasing after him to get him to turn around. Funny. Nice dog. Reminded me a bit of my Lola 2pm. Hermans Bay Beach (City of Jensen Beach?). Normandy Beach, Dollman Park Beach, Waveland Beach, Jensen Beach, Plantation Beach, Chastain Beach, Vitolo Family Preserve 116 pm, feeling a bit lightheaded.2 osprey overhead at the causeway. Now Jensen Beach 249 pm, Bob Graham Beach 252. Riger Shores 254. Dollman Beach surfing spot 243 pm. Now Nettles Island? Here’s the Elliot Museum 255. Marriot Resort Hutchison Island (very nice golf & beach resort, 257). Fletcher Beach, Clifton Perry Beach.
At Bathtub Reef I took a swim and tried to bodysurf but you get to the reef and it’s not good body surfing. I asked the lifeguard what the red flag means and he gave me the official answer “exercise extreme caution.” House of Refuge. What’s that? Took another swim at Stuart beach 4 to 430 pm, , now the City of Seawells Point.
Tuesday Feb 8, 2022 7 am donated blood at the Palm Beach location. 9 am Walmart bought cottage cheese. Then to Palm Springs Library (the other palm springs here in FL) did some dictation 10-12. From there I went to John Prince Park they have a nice exercise area here. Took a nap and did some maps evangelism. Military Trail Road is ubiquitous in southern Florida or southeastern FL I suppose. Since it was a Tuesday I looked for a movie theatre to do a movie review for Christians (Tuesday is discount day at most theatres).
#PrayTheMovies: found the Lake Worth 8- made a mistake of initially going to a movie called Jackass Forever– thought it was supposed to be funny a modern gag movie but it turned out to be too gross overly infatuated with adolescent body jokes. So I walked out and sat down at a movie next door called “Moon Fall” this was much better– not a bad movie. My thoughts for prayer: Don’t try to build the Tower of Babel again. The danger of technology and artificial intelligence is a real thing. Notes from Moon Fall: the USC son gets in trouble they stole a car and went joyriding The father (main character) finds out from the nightly news. Different character: “I’m a nobody mom.” Mom has Alzheimer’s. Halle Berry also a main character. The plot is that the moon is “out of orbit” and worldwide catastrophe pending. They need to find a way to get the moon back into it’s proper orbit. They decide to take the retired Endeavor Space Shuttle out of the LA Museum (I remember when it landed and they towed it there I was there to watch the drama). But of course there’s complications and the 2 main characters plus a 3rd end up going it alone. Key word “mega structures.’
Pray for Hollywood to repent. Priest at mass confessed to us during the homily that he is occasionally guilty of “adulting” that was a good point– lots of people become patronizing parents or just too “adult” – not real- a passive-aggressive mechanism that nobody really likes but causes others to do the same and suddenly
everybody is acting like an overbearing “adult” figure in popular culture they call this type of woman a “Karen.” Now there is flooding in the movie. Things are quickly spiraling out of control. “Highly likely the moon was built by aliens” says the chubby character. In a wheelchair the Sutherland character not Kiefer but his dad. I remember seeing him and/or son or both at a Hollywood star ceremony (walk of fame). Here’s the requisite bi-racial couple. Every movie needs it now. Black- Latino couple in this case. The son is released from jail. “Just make sure your trigger happy friends keep their hands off the nukes”, Vandenberg AFB prepare to evacuate. Cool CGI (computer generated images) the oil platforms above water.
#PrayTheMovies: #2: End of world repent. To Mijnil this is NOT a movie this is REAL LIFE. The “thing” around the moon some sort of “beast” seems to be attracted to electronics. “Are you a college boy” says one character derisively. NOT VERY REALISTIC: As if cell phones would keep working despite all the flooding and infrastructure collapse as well as distance from earth.. But they all keep using them even inside the spaceship by the moon. Birds dying - earth running out of oxygen. There’s some kind of secret base inside the moon. Something about the ancestors and now artificial intelligence wants to destroy all biological life. “You’re not my son.” #PrayTheMovies: re Tower of Babel. One character (the son) looks like Leif Ericson. Thinking about my cousins praying for them (Brian & Jen, Audra & Brian). Hear our prayer Lord. Not sure why I suddenly thought about them. Oh, probably because one of the characters is named Brian. The aliens infused Brian with new powers. Major meteor shower. Nukes ready to go. “If earth gets a 2nd chance, so do we” (good. grace). The roly poly character looks like Steve Brinks.
Wed Feb 9 8 am St. Julian, 10 am Flagler Mansion Museum tour $18. 12 noon- Four Arts Library, Garden, & Museum (new exhibit not ready until Saturday). 1pm Palm Beach history museum. An old
courtroom on the 3rd floor. Some interesting exhibits on the entrance level. From there over to the Manatee Center. Last time I was here it was closed due to covid. Now open. Only saw one manatee. Lots of barracudas. 330 to 430 took a walk at Winding Waters Natural Area. Came here last time as well. This time I took the full loop. Lots of birds. No tortoises. Holiday Inn for the night.
Thursday Feb 10 7am donated blood again. Then I went to Lake Worth Beach- they require minimum 2 hours parking at $3 dollars per hour- ie basically $6 minimum to park. Nice pier area and some waves, so I went swimming but unfortunately encountered two overbearing locals– both trying to pretend they were lifeguards–saying their red shorts proved it. Huh? Say What? I can buy red shorts too and it doesn’t make me a lifeguard. Felt a bit sorry for these 2 locals one looked like Santa Claus- an elderly fellow. The other like a hippy from the 60’s. And they were the type of “surfers” who mostly just sit in the water– don’t do much if any actual surfing. These waves weren’t strong enough to do much surfing on anyways. I had to go into FULL ALPHA MODE to get them off my back as I was just trying to get a little swim exercise. This was like a scene from a bad old school movie where some bully jerks at the beach come along to mess with anybody they’ve never seen before. I don’t go into full alpha mode very often but it worked this time. They backed off. Won’t come back here again because of excessive parking fees as well as the local B.S.
Went southward to Lantana beach much better here. Went snorkeling here last time as well. Talked to a beautiful lifeguard before I went in– she was nice enough. She warned of jellyfish but the FL jellyfish are just tiny blobs that rarely cause problems maybe a little tingle sting in some cases. Nothing to worry much about. Not like a stingray. I’ve had enough of that in CA. Saw mostly schools of Palometa fish - cool looking (aka cobbler, Joe fish, old wife, & wireback). Only $1.50 per hour to park here and not 2 hours minimum. From there I took a hike at Hypoloxo Shrub
known for their tortoises. Saw 2 right away, but nothing more after that. The 2nd one was pretty good size half- a basketball or so. When I put my camera up close it pulled its head back and sounded like it hissed, but apparently this is the air not aggression. Listening to Alex Jones show as I walk and he’s interviewing the brother of Justin Trudeau guy’s name is Kyle Kemper not sure why not same last name. Half- brother I guess. Not sure how it all works out. But he is NOT in agreement with Trudeau. He supports the Freedom Truckers. Good guy. Here’s Harvey Oyer Park drove thru along river 130pm. Meters here too. City of Boynton Beach 137pm.
Bongino on radio re Jan6 and the mysterious “dud bombs” the person was professional enough to go allegedly undetected and allegedly uncaught by the FBI but then the bombs failed? Or intentionally failed? Ie a false flag? Bongino spent 2 full shows on this topic in depth. Here’s Ocean Inlet– good snorkeling & free parking one of my favorite spots. Nearby is the Hammock beach and Ocean Ridge both parking full when I drove thru moments earlier? After snorkeling Ocean Inlet and seeing some colorful fish, I walked back to my towel and a chubby lady said “Did you go out by the new artificial reef?” No. I hadn't. I didn’t know about it. Will do so next time. City of Ocean Ridge. New Holiday Inn for the night at Boynton Hypo area. Still reflecting on the Lake Worth jerks. It will take a while for that to fade from my memory. But it will.
Friday 2/11/22 830 am start out at St. Thomas More church. Left early went over to Wakodahatchee Wetlands just happened to see it on a search of maps for nearby attractions. Wow– parking lot full already traffic cop directing cars- I thought there was a special event, but they’re all tourists many of them with the “big gun” cameras ( ie long zoom lens) walking the boardwalk lots of wildlife – the main attraction being the wood storks. Beautiful big birds Prayer visualization: santa claus & hippy at Lake Worth, & wow lag at Wakodahatchee. 830 to 930. Then I went to the nearby Green
Cay wetlands boardwalk 945 to 1015 also very nice. There’s also the nearby Loxahatchee NWR- a fee area. I drove thru. Maybe come back later.. From there I drove all the way to MacArthur State Park and paid the $4 entry fee, took the long walk over the boardwalk bridge with my snorkeling gear and found the reef area and went snorkeling the only one and was a bit underwhelmed. The reviews I read made it sound as if it was something extremely special but it was average at best. Much better just a few miles down the road is a public beach with free parking called Ocean Reef Park. There’s a wonderful reef right in front with lots of colorful fish. Enjoyed it very much.
Saturday Feb 12 Train stuck on track had to take a long detour. 8am start the day at St. Paul of the Cross church in N. Palm Beach (Riviera) not far from Macarthur S.P. Then I went over to the popular Phil Foster Park & “snorkel trail.” They’ve submerged artificial structures here in a swim area that attracts tons of colorful fish. You swim from one structure to the next over 100-yard area. It’s wonderful. The first session of the day around 9am I saw lots of fish including Angel Fish, maybe Grouper, some sort of large fish striped black & white like a zebra but NOT the small zebra fish. Couldn’t find an identification for it online. The coolest fish I saw was the Red Lion fish (I think). Another interesting thing that happened was I picked up a colorful shell with a crab in it. Then I dropped it back down as I went to the top for air. I watched it fall to the bottom but it landed upside down like a turtle on its back. The crab couldn’t move. So I was planning on going back down to flip it over, but as I did so I saw a small fish approach the shell and with its snout– it turned over the crab so it was right side up. I couldn’t believe it. Did I just witness a fish commit a random altruistic act? That was incredible. I also saw a butterfly fish and a blenny fish (blennies were made famous by the movie “Finding Nemo” and it almost allowed me to touch it– not scared). And there were tons of curious black & yellow Sgt Majors and/or Moorish Idols (they look similar, probably mostly Sgt Majors). And maybe a Harlequin Bass.
Then there were some Blue Tangs (mostly blue & black with yellow tail. Swam past the sunken boat and the hammerhead shark sculptures. The boat propeller still spun when I flipped it. After my 2nd session I went over to Ocean Reef again and rested in their parking lot. Then I planned to go back to evening mass at St. Paul of the Cross but it was extremely crowded so I left. I am 55 years old and some places in Florida I feel like a kid again being around so many senior citizens.
Sunday Feb 13 Superbowl Sunday. 8 am now at St. Ann church (its pouring rain). 9 am St. Edward church Palm Beach. And 11 am at Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea (Episcopal) - a beautiful piece of architecture. The greeters weren’t so great however. Leaving west palm beach, Passed by Holy Spirit church at 1220 thought about going in but there were “greeters” standing out in front even 20 minutes after the service started. Some churches have too many “greeters’ who apparently don’t think they have anything to learn from a sermon or from simply being part of the worship service. I guess they have reached the top already. No room for growth? Seriously. Some people become too involved in watching over others at the church they are overbearing. Same thing with having cops at church. It ruins the atmosphere. I usually don’t go back to such churches. I also dislike it when a pastor sits up front and tries to connect with you by “stare down”-- it’s awkward. I’ve gotten to the point where I like to take my glasses off and don’t know if the pastor is staring at me. My eyes are so bad without correction I can’t connect with anybody’s eyes or facial expressions unless they’re practically right next to me. This has its pros and cons. I reflected on my life as I was driving thru the wealthy of west Palm Beach and realized I went full circle from wanting all the “nice things “ in life to experiencing how ugly it makes people become to NOT wanting any of these material things.
Now driving past St. Lucy Catholic 1:10pm, City of Highland Beach. Now City of Boca Raton 113pm. Spanish River Park they
charge huge fees here $25 parking fee. No thanks. Also near here is Yamato Rock supposed to be a good snorkel spot and they are planning a new park here in the future if the locals don’t block it. Now South Beach 1:20pm. And Gumbo Limbo Nature Center and Red Reef Beach. I will be back here in a few days. South Inlet Park 123 now drizzling rain. Deerfield Beach 125pm. City of Hillsboro Beach 130pm. City of Pompano Beach 136pm. Now Fort Lauderdale. This is Broward County. Here’s Taylor State Park. And the Bonnet House Museum. Here’s a building with a sign that says Huizenga Family Foundation. I googled it what do you know its part of the Wayne Huizenga family (a Dutch Christian Reformed connection). That’s a nice thing. Now on the highway.
Here’s Outdoor World. 5pm attended mass at St. Stephen ProtoMartyr in Miramar on my way to the free Superbowl Viewing event at the Miramar Cultural Center. Mostly Latinos and a few blacks. You don’t see black Catholics very often except in the Miami area. I thought about some of my family and friends etc. who won’t forgive me for my “carnal youth.” It’s time to get past those things 35 or 40 years later. If they won’t forgive and forget and take the log out of their own eyes I can’t worry about it. Woe to you who … re the SEVEN WOES of Matt 23. Mayor Messner sponsored the Superbowl event at Miramar Cultural Center. He tried out for the Cinci Bengals years ago but didn’t make it. I make this a day of Super Prayer. Superbowl Notes: 1st half Rams (R1) receive but go 3 and out. Bengals 1st Possession (B1) go for it on 4th but fail turn it over on downs. R2 big pass play to Kupp and then a TD pass to Odell Beckham Jr (who will tear his tendon again later in the game). Rams lead 7-0. B2 Bengals go 3 & out. R3 Rams 3 & out. B3 great catch by Jamar Chase brings Bengals to the 10 yard line but can’t get TD. Field goal makes it 7-3. R4 Rams score another RD on pass from QB to Kupp but miss point after. Now 13-3. B4 Bengals respond with a TD. Now 13-10. R5 Rams get intercepted in the end zone. Bengals take over but on B5 go 3 & out. R6. End of 1st half, Rams lead 13-10. 2nd half B1 Bengals receive and on 1st play from
scrimmage, complete a 75-yard TD pass to take the lead over the Rams 17-13. R1 Rams throw interception on 2nd play from scrimmage. B2 Bengals make a field goal. Now lead 20-13 with all the momentum. R2.On the next possession, Rams respond with a field goal to make it 20-16. B3 Bengals go 3 & out. R3. Rams go 3 & out. B4 Bengals 3 & out (getting sacked). R4 End of 3rd Q, still 2016. Into 4th Q Rams go 3 & out. B5. I think Bengals went 3 & out again. Or did I miss something? R5 Rams go 3 and out. B6 Bengals 3 & out. R6 Rams move it down field and get a TD pass to Kupp to make it 23-20 with 1:25 remaining in the game... And that’s it. Bengals cannot turn it around in the final minute. RAMS WIN SUPERBOWL 2022! Kupp is the MVP.
Monday Feb 14 Valentines Day. 830 am St. Bartholomew church black priest, lots of black Catholics in this part of Florida. The Dolphins play at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miramar– not far from here. 930 am Took a walk thru the “Secret Woods” natural area by the New River. Supposedly there are manatees around here but the viewing area is under construction. Saw numerous ubiquitous white Ibis as well as turkey vultures. 11am then I went over to the Ann Kolb Nature Center & Lake Forest Park walked around went up to top of observation tower. A few other tourists walking around blindly. Nice boardwalks but not much to see in terms of wildlife. A man came up on a bike and asked where is the “Great Florida Bike Trail” said he saw a sign. I think he mis-read the sign-. It was probably a sign for the “Great Florida Birding Trail” Then I went over to north Hollywood Beach which a few reviews says had good snorkeling. I found free parking across the street. And walked to the beach and at the 1st lifeguard stand I said to the lifeguard “This is my 1st time here. I heard there’s some good snorkeling. True? “The lifeguard turned out to be an immigrant from Cuba and talkative. 1st he started telling me about his own experiences spear fishing but didn’t think it was very good snorkeling right around here “to be honest” he said. He also dutifully warned me that snorkelers need to have a “diver down flag” if they go out too far. The lifeguards seem
to be trained to tell this to tourists even though if you think thru the process of how snorkeling is QUITE DIFFERENT than scuba diving you realize a divers flag is almost meaningless. A snorkeler only stays underwater for maybe at the most 30 seconds but on average maybe 15 seconds per dive. Snorkelers have much greater “situational awareness” about what’s happening above water than a scuba diver. We know if anything is in our vicinity. WE also can HEAR better underwater without the sound of the tank ventilators. We can see above water if anything is coming and hear a propeller as well. If I see a boat even remotely close to me I wait until I am sure they are not coming towards me... if they are I would stay above water and wave my hands. There’s a very tiny slim almost non-existent chance of a boat running over a snorkeler. A diver’s flag is legalistic over kill with hopes of avoiding municipal liability if anything ever did.
I tried to direct the Cuban-American lifeguard back to any tips about snorkeling. At least he had a good sense of humor even though he wasn’t very helpful. The best he could suggest was to try the Franklin street area or the Magnolia area. I walked down the beach a ways and decided to at least take a brief swim. Water is about 74 degrees this time of year. Warm enough. Warmer than L.A. ocean water which is in the low 60’s in the winter (sometimes high 50’s). My experience with asking lifeguards for tips on snorkeling is pretty bleak. Their minds are rather blank in general. Let’s be realistic: day after day staring out at the ocean without mental stimulation from literature etc. is probably not too good for one’s mental or intellectual growth. They really should require more from lifeguards. IT sounds like a “fun” job– maybe for college kids for a summer or two, but it shouldn’t be a career. Or if it does become a career they should have growth opportunities. Some of the lifeguards don’t even seem to swim or surf or go in the water after a while. I’ve seen some who look fairly out-of-shape. Listening to 640 am radio at 2pm here in the Lauderdale area– it’s loudmouth Colin Cowherd taking cheap shots at Aaron Rodgers after the Superbowl
criticizing his stance against vaccines. Cowherd never played the game. He just like to hear himself talk and be obnoxious. Now that Stafford won the Superbowl suddenly Cowherd is riding this bandwagon and dissing Aaron Rodgers. Cowherd’s a flake. Weird name too. Across the street where I parked there’s a canal and the boat by my car looked like it was capsized slowly sinking. I could see lots of stuff on the boat too – like somebody was trying to live on it but maybe abandoned it. SO I head north – I want to try snorkeling the Red Reef but it’s a ways up there. Passing the Casino Dania sign says something about Jai Alai. That’s something I would like to watch them play sometime.. SO I googled it later and found this: “Casino Miami and The Casino at Dania Beach are two places where you can still see jai-alai games year-round. While it's played almost every day at these two frontons, the sport struggles to fill a 500-seat stadium.”
Passing St. Sebastian Church 214 pm, Drawbridge up. City of Deerfield Beach 334p pm, swimming hall of fame here as well. Now City of Boca Raton which literally means mouth of the rat. IT took me an hour to drive 18 miles up the highway along Lauderdale Beach. We came here once in high school or college on a bus with a bunch of Spring Breakers. Hillsboro Inlet lighthouse 322 pm. Finally make it to Red Reef Park. Parking is $25 at the beach or meter parking across the street. That’s a no-brainer. Paid for an hour and quickly got my snorkeling gear on and found the different spots where there were rocks or reef and my perseverance to get here paid off. I SAW A SHARK! not a big bad one but a 4- foot shark resting on the bottom probably a nurse shark and it quickly swam away when it saw me. My 2nd shark sighting of my life. Also some other colorful fish. Next to the parking area is also the Gumbo Limbo Nature center. I briefly walked the boardwalk but had to quickly get back to my car before my time expired. And in fact the scrupulous meter lady came by a few moments after I got back to my car. Here’s the ubiquitous Military Trail Road again. Sign for
Tuesday Feb 15 7am blood donation $65. Walmart 9 to 11 ampicked up frozen lasagna, veggies, cashews, romaine lettuce, cucumber, green onion, tomato, Ritz crackers (the new kind. better), soy silk milk & chocolate silk (both were spoiled by the next day–had to throw them out– forgot what this Miami weather does to some products if they’re not in a refrigerator. Normally even milk will last longer. Also frozen broccoli, grapefruit juice, and some summer sausage makes good sandwiches.. Then to a laundromat at 7326 Southgate in North Lauderdale. $2 for a small load. Did my socks, towels, shirts & pants. Hazy day warm, sun breaking thru it’s hot when it does. Some guy at laundromat almost backed into me. I let out a HUGE LONG HONK. He didn’t apologize after getting out of the car.
#PrayTheNews: Remington gun settles with Sandy Hook victims’ families doesn’t make sense. But Remington is also declaring bankruptcy so they can’t pay. But this is how the lefties will eventually “ban guns” or new guns they will find sympathetic liberal juries to find in favor of ridiculous lawsuits against the gun companies. IT’s Tuesday so it’s Movie Review Day (always on discount Tuesday).
#PrayTheMovies: I decide to go see “Death on the Nile” starring Gal Gadot who did great as Superwoman but not always so great in other roles. Here’s the notes: I missed some of the beginning a war scene. I thought I was in the wrong theatre. Man gets killed by explosion. The other character has his face disfigured by shrapnel. Next scene in hospital where lady assures him she still loves him even though disfigured. Now London 1937 night club. Passionate man /woman dancing. Another woman/friend shows up (Gal Gadot) and ….; now weeks later they are at the Sphinx by the Great Pyramids in Egypt. The main character seems to be like a Sherlock Holmes. IN fact he is a detective. One character is flying a kite while standing halfway up a
pyramid. Cataract hotel? “Money is the one thing all women can rely upon” quips a character. Gal Gadot character is independently wealthy. Armie Hammer plays a creepy boyfriend. IN reality I don’t like Armie too much, nor as a character in this film. Prayers for him to come to know Jesus Christ. Doyles family? Conan Doyle created Sherlock Holmes, but this apparently comes from Agatha Christie? Nonetheless they create more confusion by giving one of the character’s the last name Doyle. Another character is named Linnette Ridgeway. #PrayTheMovies: Do NOT steal your friend’s lover. But wait. That’s NOT actually what happened we find out at the end. The rival is Jackie. “It’s love. There are no rules” Gal Gadot is the actual victim in all of this. “When you have money nobody is really your friend.” After the pyramids they visit the Temple of Rameses II on the Nile River an actual place (would be fun to go there sometime). While there a large rock almost crushes the 2 lovers during a spontaneous love scene under the historical monument.
I feel lightheaded again. The cruise boat in the movie looks too modern. And of course there is the requisite bi-racial relationship as all movies in 2022 must now have. The supposed rival shows up on the cruise. “Maybe the life God intended” says one character. I think to myself “What a wicked web we weave” (Shakespeare). Gal Gadot gets killed by a 22 bullet in the head. This is a Who Dunnit movie now. Then the Armie Hammer gets shot in the knee by the supposed rival. OR did he? And now a valuable necklace is missing. There’s a black girl & lady in the film played by Letitia Wright & Sophie Okonedo. Sophie is only 53 but they made her look more elderly. She played an elderly lady. Then there’s another murder. IT’s getting too difficult to sum it up. New PrayTHeMovie theme is that it’s an error to believe in marital bliss for life. Marriage is a covenant not always “somewhere over the rainbow.” Also #PrayTheMovies: purge the deadly sins. That’s the main thing. Purge the lust and wrath and sloth and pride envy greed gluttony. Every day. Say “I blow it out. Get out Satan now. “IT will work.
When Armie got shot in the knee I noticed his handkerchief with blood on the knee too quick. That was a clue. So in the end it turns out the 2 original lovers had a plan to scam the Gal Gadot character out of her money. Sherlock (Or Hercules) solves the crime. Leaving movie theatre in Coral Springs that was a nice theatre apparently an independent theatre that offers $6 dollar movies every day of the week. But as I leave there are cops in front of the theatre– like something just happened. Not sure what that was all about. As long as they leave me alone it’s ok. Took a walk at the Tall Cypress area a boardwalk loop. Then I go over to the Coral Springs Art Museum which is free as it should be it’s not worth any money. Some interesting “modern art” but very small. Alex Jones says there is now a movement to band the world “freedom” at least as it relates to the Canadian Freedom Truckers. That’s a shame what the Canadian leaders are doing to them and their supporters. It’s become a dictatorship in Canada. Very sad. Similar in some regards to the January 6 scam in Washington DC. After the museum I sat outside on a bench. A lady employee walked by and commented on the music on the loudspeaker saying “interesting music.” I noticed the music as well. Some of it from the 80’s. Some I like and remember.
Wednesday Feb 16 2022 9 am mass at St. Andrews church. 10 am I walk thru the “Fern Forrest” on the boardwalk. Nice place. One of the trails is called “Wandertrail.” Afterwards I rest and eat some salad. Lightheaded again. From there I take the Sawgrass greenway hike. Saw an animal that looked like a black seal in the distance. Turned out to be a large black otter. Found a cool empty snail shell fairly large. Guy on bicycle pointed to a “black racer snake” as he rode past. Didn’t see it. Talked to him back at the parking lot about the otter. He claimed he was a Navy Seal for many years, now retired. Mentioned something about seeing 500 kids killed during the Croatia Bosnia conflict. He actually started tearing up. I googled it later and found something about a massacre in Sarajevo. Maybe that’s what he was talking about. How many kids were killed in
Sarajevo? “A memorial with the names of 521 children killed during the siege was unveiled on 9 May 2010.” Another guy nearby heard our conversation about the otter and said that a guy was out here a few weeks ago with his golden retriever and throwing the ball into the water for the dog to fetch and it got attacked by an alligator, who disappeared with it. He says the guy briefly entered the water to try to save it but then got out and started shooting at it with his pistol. Then he laid down and cried. Apparently the cops came and did something not sure what. How sad is that. Pretty dumb of the guy. I moved on went on up to the Sawgrass Nature Center donations requested I put a few bucks in the box. There was a redshouldered hawk in a large habitat, among other injured animals all in spacious “cages” with standing room (not like boxes) and vegetation etc. They looked well-cared for. And there was a wild red-shouldered hawk outside the injured hawk’s cage . They both screeched loudly as I approached.
Also near here I drove by- is the notorious Stoneman High School where the shooting took place almost 4 years ago to the day. They had just commemorated the anniversary. I hadn’t even thought about this school being in the area... But since I stumbled upon it I made a point of saying a prayer and making a video of it. This is a fairly comfortable area of Florida- lots of nice homes and spacious yards – and nothing but open everglade areas surrounding the area. IN fact I had to drive past Stoneman H.S. to get to the Loxahatchee everglades national wildlife refuge (Arthur Marshall section). There’s also an elementary and middle school down the road. Stoneman H.S. is a beautiful building. There were flowers by a sign apparently for the 4-year commemoration. There were 17 victims from that particular tragic incident. So senseless. I took another walk at the Loxahatchee they have airboat tours that launch from here as well. This is not the Loxahatchee near the Wakadohatchee where I was a week ago. This is further south.
2/16/22 at the Broward county library they gave me a number to use the computer not a guest pass- but a permanent number of sorts. That’s cool. And rare. Obese guy in front of me can’t stay awake on the computer. Lady to the left of me is an all-day at the computer personality. She was here last time as well (yesterday). She just sits and watches random meaningless videos. Now she just knocked something off the table and didn’t bother to pick it up. There’s always some interesting characters at the public libraries. #PrayTheNews: They’re playing the clip of Biden saying he will fire those who “talk down” to employees. After he just swore at a reporter and called him a stupid SOB. Good grief. #PrayTheMovies: Finished “King of California” movie– that was actually pretty good–with Michael Douglas.
Thursday Feb 17. Donated blood 7am. #PrayTheNews: Trudeau is freezing the bank accounts of Canadians who supported the freedom truckers. This is sickening. Unbelievable. Now driving towards Miami. Highway jammed at 10:20 I use the time to PrayThePlates. I see a sign for the Miami boat show happening right about now. Google it and it’s a $40 admission fee. Really? Ridiculous. Made it to Viscaya estate. Self-guided tour. Nice place. Historic. Afterward I went on over to the famous Miami “South Beach” and took a swim. Even managed to find a free parking spot for a few hours near the Jewish history museum. Walked around. Made a short video. Fairly busy. Lots of tourists. A few surfers. Warm water and air. Nice day. Took a shower after the swim.
Friday 2/18/22 This is also Daytona 500 weekend. Actually considered going to it– or one of the related events such as qualifying but it would require a long drive from Miami back to Daytona. Over 200 miles plus toll. Maybe next year. Also coming up is a pro golf tournament in West Palm Beach. Considering that as well. More reasonable- only about 75 miles. But I probably won’t. I’ve been to some great pro golf tournaments including the US open at Torrey Pines which Tiger Woods won in a sudden death playoff;
and also to the pro-Am at Pebble Beach, among others. They’re kind of fun, but not great fun. IT’s more of a thing you want to do to check it off the bucket list. I don’t have this Palm Beach golf tournament on my bucket list. IT’s not that enticing. After Miami Beach I encountered a huge traffic jam trying to get back to the Miami mainland- I finally pulled off into the public parking lot at the Miami Beach Golf Club and worked on ministry material for a few hours waiting for the traffic to subside. Crazy. Worse than L.A.
Friday Feb 18 2022 8 am at St. Mary Cathedral. Another black priest. Then onward towards the Florida Keys. I love driving thru Miami with all the colorful murals on the sides of buildings. Found a gas station with $3.31 per gallon. Not bad. Caraf Oil 2810 NW 12th. $40 total. Sullen cashier didn’t smile or say thanks. Prayers4 her. Passed by the Rubel museum which is across from the Super Blue museum–. And here’s the University of Miami hospital. Now passing by Loan Depot Park– where the Marlins play. Was here a few years ago around all-star break. Almost bought a ticket to the game but it’s too miserable in Miami in the summer weather so hot & muggy. Not pleasant. Passing by sign for Barnacle State Park and also Kampong Botanical Garden. And now Fairchild Tropical Garden. Also the University of Miami campus.
Drove thru a few campus roads. One of the fields at the campus is named after Wayne Huizenga but not to be confused with Alex Rodriguez Park. I drove past too quick to be sure. Maybe a softball field? . “He owned the Dolphins, Marlins and Panthers simultaneously from 1994 to 1998, becoming the first person to own teams in three major sports leagues.” Interesting, Miami Hurricanes have been playing their football games at Hard Rock stadium (formerly Joe Robbie stadium among other names) in Miramar since 2008, 25 miles away from campus because the Orange Bowl was demolished to make way for Marlins new stadium. Onward thru city of Pine Crest 947 am, Here’s a sign for the Deering Estate–apparently historic. Passed by the historic Cauley Square not much
there. 10:20. There was a man dressed up as Spiderman with a Spiderman car in front of the post office nearby. NOT sure what that was all about. It’s always surprising - you think that this far south the commercial area would dissipate but it actually keeps going longer and farther than you would expect. And here’s the Coral Castle was thinking about paying the admission to see what it’s all about. I heard some stuff about it before– a bit on Coast-toCoast show– and the mystery of how the heavy coral stones were moved. Found this later: “Coral Castle's website states that, "If anyone ever questioned Ed about how he moved the blocks of coral, Ed would only reply that he understood the laws of weight and leverage well."[8] He also stated that he had "discovered the secrets of the pyramids", referring to the Great Pyramid of Giza.[20] “(Wiki). There’s also the mystery of the perfectly balanced heavy stone door. I stop in the parking lot but it looks actually quite small– not sure there’s that much there worth paying to see. Maybe some other time. Onward. 1033am. Stop in at Walmart for a few items. Past Harris Field in Homestead City. Now Key Largo! 1130. Stop in briefly at the Laura Quinn Bird Sanctuary (more injured birds being rehabilitated) 12:15. This is the City of Taviernier 12:18, Are all of the Keys part of Monroe County? Now Plantation Key. Islamorada traffic jam. Can’t escape traffic jams way down here. Bright red on google maps. WIndley Key, Fossil Key, Diving Museum, Matecumbe Key, Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve, Lignumvitae Channel. Boy Scouts conference ground? Long Key State park $4.50 entry had read an article about good snorkeling here but it wasn’t. Just grass and dirt. No fish. Well, the article said the good area is by the campground but the campground was closed and couldn’t really get to that area without a long swim. French-speaking fellow yelled a question to me trying to start a conversation claimed he had moved from L.A. Something didn’t seem to make sense. I disappeared into the water. When I returned he was heading out in a kayak with his friends. There’s not much at Long Key S.P. although there is a nature trail called the Gold Orb
took the one -mile loop- not much to see but tiny sand crabs in a muddy area. Some people find that interesting. Also did some evangelism for the South Carolina car. Tea Table Key 1255. India Key 1256 Craig Key was at 10am. Long Key at 106, City of Layton at 108. Lazy lady working at the entry booth at Long Key SP warned about needing a “diver flag” for snorkeling. Oh stop the drama please. Have they all been hypnotized to say this? Then she added “be safe” as I drove off. Whatever lady. 230pm leaving Long Key. Now at Conch Key 240pm. Some good things are going to happen later today. Duck Key 242 pm. Grassy Key 243. City of Marathon is fairly commercialized. 243. A Purple Heart city. Around this area you will find Aquarium Encounter. You can pay to snorkel in a tank apparently. Or you can find the real thing outdoors. That’s what I like. Also nearby is the Dolphin Research Center kind of like a Marine Land or Sea world. There’s also Curry Hammock State Park. And there’s the Crane Point Hammock. And there’s the Turtle Hospital. Pigeon Key. And now I arrive at Bahia Honda Key at 313 pm. Great experience here finding a gigantic Queen Conch.
Actually found several conchs (pronounced “konk”) but one in particular was gigantic and beautiful like finding a diamond. IT was living the mollusk inside it. I brought it back to the beach to take a picture. A lady immediately pounced on me saying “You can’t keep that.” I explained I was just taking a picture then I would put it back in the water. IN USA it’s illegal to keep living conchs. She was still suspicious of me. But I put the shell on the sand and indicated I was going to my car to get my camera. When I returned she seemed more at ease. She was a tourist too but acting more like a cop at first. Now she was trying to be nice about it. Whatever. Anyway, finding this beautiful conch MADE MY DAY! Afterward I explored the old Bahia Bridge and also snorkeled on the other side where I saw a few giant stingrays as well as some large parrotfish. There was a yacht all the way from Traverse City parked in the marina area. Long trip. I’m running out of room to jot down notes
in this notebook. Big Pine Key 550 pm. Hope to make it to Key West for the night. Beautiful sunset going this way. Lots of cars turning off towards “No Name Key.” Not sure why. Little Torch Key 556 & Big Torch too. Ramrod Key at 557. Summerfield Key 6pm, Cudjoe Key at 602. Park Key at 607. Several Saddlebunch keys. Now Shark Key 617, and Big Coppitt Key. Finally Rockland Key and Boca Chica Key–. I’m sure I missed some.
Saturday Feb 19 slept in Key West. Rising early I passed by Key West High School. They have a great mascot- a giant conch- right in front of the school. Passing by Key West City Hall there’s a giant tiger in front. Wonder why. Across the street is the National Weather Service building. Lots of walkers & scooters. And roosters many everywhere. Cock-a-doodle-doo 730 am mass at St. Mary one place that has a parking lot. 9 am Zach Taylor state park. Always love coming here. Rest in the back for a while then grab my gear and head out for a snorkeling session #1: tons of small Sgt Major fish as usual, & a chameleon type fish not sure what it is maybe a small grouper I saw it change colors as it moved into a new color of rock background very cool -maybe a goliath grouper. Groupers can become enormous. This one wasn’t, yet. Also some parrot fish, as well as a darker shade of maybe parrotfish but maybe something else. Also some trigger fish- also cool. Went back to car. The park is getting very crowded now. Rest again. After a few hours go back for snorkel session #2 on the northern end. Visibility was not as good now.
After 2nd session I was sitting on a picnic table bench and an old man just started chatting – talking about his sons going scuba diving at the lighthouse and he was griping that he was only snorkeling here. He didn’t get it. You can take a $500 scuba diving trip on a boat that takes hours to get there and possibly not see anything much better than you see right along the shore here. Been there, done that. It seems cool to take a long boat ride way out– but it’s not guaranteed better. On this trip alone ( & I can speak about the
future because I am writing this ex post facto- I will see a shark , a manatee face-to-face, find a giant conch, and see all the various small & medium tropical fish. The only thing I haven’t seen is a giant sea turtle, but they can be seen by shore as well. Even on shore during nesting season. So I am very content with snorkeling from shore in the right spots just gotta do the research and/or be willing to explore. Also may have seen some mangrove snapper – nothing special. Definitely saw some “common snook” – the tell-tale mark is the well-defined line along the mid-section of their body running lengthwise. Also very common around here is a brown fish with white spots but I haven’t found a name for it yet. A lot of people these days use self-serving negative assumptions about others to puff themselves up. Jesus spoke against this. It’s a sign of being “in the flesh” (not good). They are poison to others.
Recent personal examples I can think of include the Beverly Hills library incident, the man’s sons at KW, the sullen one at Miami gas , a few at blood DC. Also the sullen one at dollar store Coral Springs. The only time I can be a victim of this poison is when I am “trapped.” That’s when they will “get” you. Maybe in a line. Even in your car sometimes if you’re not careful. I try to avoid such traps at all costs. But if and when it does happen you can PRAY your way through it. Don’t panic. Don’t retaliate unless it’s self-defense of course against a physical attack. Just bite the bullet. The pain will pass and you will grow spiritually from it as you later pray for this enemy. I hear the loud navy planes from Naval Station Key West practicing a slow pass overhead. They do this at air shows too. That’s how I recognize the sound. I wonder if they ever have air shows here. Aha. Yes they do. It’s called the “southernmost air spectacular” and this year it is April 2 & 3. Looks like Blue Angels go there sometimes too. Maybe I will try to get there next year. Sleep Key West night 2.
Sunday Feb 20 Beware of those who judge you in the flesh and want to compete with you. Don’t get pulled into it. Passing by Key West H.S. again on the way to morning mass at St. Mary’s Basilica. From there I go to the Key West Methodist church low key but a few things make me uncomfortable. The pastor is Bridget Thornton. The organist is Dr. Ann McFarland. No young people although the pastor mentions a youth group in opening announcements. Some of my notes, verbatim: “We are not God. We believe in total free will, not like the Presbyterians. God limits His own control so maybe we should too. Pledge allegiance to the Lord. She mentions Rev Michael Slaughter pastor of the largest Methodist church in Ohio. Is Jesus your Lord? She asks. End notes. Prayers for Desi, Stevie, Ukra, presby Orlando. Conch lady, scooter girl, WI girl. After the Methodist I walk over to the Episcopal beautiful historical building. Nice thing is parking meters don’t start until noon on Sunday. The one day with limited free parking in KW. Prayers for young adult Aubrey Estella baptized at St. Paul Episcopal. After Episcopal I drove by the ferry area this is where you can travel to/from Fort Myers & Marco Island and also to/from Dry Tortugas among other locations. Then I went back to the basilica for noon mass (in Spanish).
Left early after macho man sat too close. Drove to Higgs beach thinking about snorkeling. They have a farmers market on Sunday–and live music kind of busy. Fun atmosphere. The reviews I read said Smathers beach has good snorkeling but not so much Higgs. Turns out it is just the opposite. There are some old wood pilings at the southern end of Higgs Beach that are excellent for snorkeling. I saw tons of cool fish. Glad I explored it. That’s why you cannot always trust random reviews. There’s also a free garden inside an old fort here. I did a quick walk thru. Later I also snorkeled Smathers and it was NOT good at all. Maybe there’s better sections because it is a long beach but my first experience was underwhelming. My tire is low on air again. Use four of my valuable
quarters to get some air. It must be a tiny leak. Sleep near Basilica Key West.
Monday Feb 21 730 am mass. The regular priest is here again. He preaches about our founding fathers & the constitution because it is presidents day 2022. Glad to hear that kind of homily the constitution is not spoken of enough in churches – even though it is so abundantly Biblically based. Nor do they teach anything about it in seminary sadly so. That’s a big deficit. There’s also the dark black nun here. She’s an inspiration. Like her. Now leaving Key West. Thru Big Coppitt Key 813 am. Several Saddle Bunch Keys. Sugarloaf Key “The two main attractions in Sugarloaf Key are the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge and the Perky Bat Tower.” Cudjoe Key 820am. Listening to the Pirate radio 101.7 decent music. Here’s Summerland Key: known for the Ramrod Swimming Hole. I see a lot of fishermen and want to say “Be a fisher of men, not just a fisherman. Be a fisher for Christ! Tell the Good News!” They will spend hours or an entire day just standing or sitting next to a fishing pole where in too many cases there’s NO FISH down below. If they could only become excited about the gospel and planting seeds of faith and hope. Onward. Big Pine key. Song by Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats called “Face Down in the Moment.”
I took a turn off main highway towards the “Blue Hole.” Only one car there when I arrive. It’s a little fresh water spot in the middle of Big Pine Key there’s one observation platform. As I approach a man excitedly tells me they saw an alligator swim up to the platform and lay there. Funny. Not long ago I was so excited to see alligators. Now I’ve gotten a bit accustomed to them. But it’s still fun to see them. Sure enough there was a medium-size alligator laying by the platform. Short way down the road from the Blue Hole is the Manillo Trail– so I took the short hike 915 am. There was a family there– they had just arrived in their gigantic motor home. The kids looked bored. The parents acted protective & defensive as I walked
up, but warmed up when I said hello. Not much to see here. A sign said something about the “Key Deer” I haven’t seen one yet. There’s lots of NWR around here. But just as I say that back in the car I see one crossing the road 923 am. It looks like a normal deer just smaller “They are smaller than any other species of white tailed deer. The reason they are so small, is because a smaller body is more tolerant towards salt-water, and easier to survive in a location like Florida Keys and Big Pine Key.” Passing by Lord of the Seas Lutheran church. Found great “secret spot” near end of old bridge just south of Bahia Honda. It’s not really secret but no signs for it people don’t know about it unless they do their research in advance. It’s called Horseshoe Beach and has excellent snorkeling. I saw lots of parrotfish, and a blue-striped blank. Also a turkey vulture just caught a fish and was eating it. Then I walked the boardwalk towards the Old Bahia Bridge the other end of it. Could see the dilapidated end of it– there’s a gap preventing people from getting to it. Unfriendlies in the parking lot. There’s certain types of tourists who come from the northern states who are not very friendly. They are distrustful of others. They are prideful and arrogant. They judge others negatively and themselves positively, inflating their self-worth. Not much fun to be around them.
A dude with North Carolina plates & his gal friend arrive as I am leaving Horse Shoe around 11am. He has his snorkeling gear plus a bucket plus one of those ketch all noose poles. Here’s Ohio Key (aka Sunshine Key) 1108 am, Here’s 7-mile bridge. Locals passing crazily. They must get sick & tired of tourists but they better learn to live with us or leave it. Love it or leave it. You can’t live in the keys like a local yokel who owns the place like you might find in some small areas in the middle of nowhere USA where angry men roar past in their pickup trucks. Lots of fishermen on the old bridge. Here’s Pigeon Key a tiny blip next to the old bridge. You can walk to it or take a ferry from Marathon Key. I have Crane Hammock starred on google maps as a place to check out. So I pull in –thinking it was a public trail area but it’s a private place that
requires $15 admission to walk the trails. I enter the visitors center and there’s a tall bald guy behind the admission desk and he just glares at me. Not very inviting at all. I guess they don’t want my money. I quickly reversed and left. Strange. These people need to take vacations of their own every now and then when they get exhausted of tourists. Goodbye old grouch. Here’s curry hammock state park at 1225. I will go here next time. Can’t go to them all. Here’s grassy key – home of the dolphin research center - which appears to be kind of like a Marine Land for those old enough to remember (Palos Verdes CA). There’s also the Keys Cable Park I had never heard about this before but here in Florida in some parts they use cables (instead of boats) to pull water skiers and wakeboarders -. I found a video explaining it at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6K3vLlvjhI. Interesting. “Competitions began on the cable tows in 1970, but it wasn't until 15 years later in 1985 that it was officially recognized by the water skiing governing bodies.” I guess it’s not just a Florida thing. Here’s one near Chicago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31LzYUSj-sQ.
I guess they are more popular in Europe but starting to gain traction in USA. Now at Long Key 1239. Passing by Lime Tree Bay Resort. Here’s the Key Tree Cactus Preserve next to the marina 115pm. I take the walk thru looks brand new no other cars. It’s so close to the marina I can see the boats & pelicans on the docks etc. It’s not even on google maps. Here’s a link https://islamorada.org/Key Tree Cactus Preserve. And there’s the Green Turtle Hammock. Beautiful water. Tea Table Key (aka Terra’s Key) perfect tropical blue water. Stopping in at Robbies so many cars there had to see what it was all about. And there’s some free things to do. You can walk out on the dock and see large tarpon, numerous pelicans, and manatees very close-up. And you can feed them (but not the manatees). There was one manatee as I walked the dock and it stuck its nose up at me curiously. I got a great picture of its face. Girl next to me said “She likes you.” I said “Or my phone” and she laughed. She like my joke. Tons of pelicans getting fed by fishermen cleaning
the fish they just caught. They periodically threw the scraps towards the crowd of pelicans “A group of pelicans has many collective nouns, including a "brief", "pod", "pouch", "scoop", and "squadron" of pelicans.” Here you see mostly the colorful “brown pelicans” with a splash of yellow on top of their head and sometimes a red beak. You can rent boats & kayaks here and take snorkeling excursions as well among other things. Free parking too. Now passing by the Florida Keys history & discovery center. Looks interesting. Remember that for next time.
PrayTheNews: 2 republics of Ukraine have declared independence from Ukraine & allegiance to Russia. Things are heating up. Will Russia invade? They have troops around the border. Or is it a bluff? City of Tavernier. And here’s Harris Park which is free during the week but $15 on weekends and holidays. Today is Monday Feb 21 but Presidents Day– barely a holiday – but they are requiring payment. I will put them on the backburner for another trip. This will give me more time to enjoy Pennekamp State Park beach been here before for snorkeling this time I explore it even more and the first thing I see is a manatee rising up from the grass startled me not scary just didn’t know what it was for a few seconds. It stared at me not scared of me either. Then he went back to grazing. They eat tons of sea grass every day like cows on an underwater pasture. IN fact they are also called “sea cows.” What a thrill! Nobody else around at the moment. There was a kid a little ways away & I tried to tell him to come & see but kids these days are not brave enough without a parent holding their hand. IT’s a shame. And the parent makes them distrustful of others.
Back in the day a kid would be thrilled to come and see a manatee underwater. Then I saw a big school of colorful parrotfish. They absolutely do look like parrots. I went farther underwater than I went last time– even over to the kayak launch area and along the mangroves. Also saw a camouflage colored fish– like a submarine–that was a barracuda. Very cool. Most snorkelers don’t go far
enough away from the beach. After a good long snorkel session I stopped in the visitor center and watched a film about types of fish very informative (except for the evolution propaganda that seemingly all state and national parks try to proselytize upon us especially the Grand Canyon). The film is very long couldn’t watch the whole thing getting late in the day. I drove over to the area called “Far Beach” and tried snorkeling there– but that’s not really a very good spot. There’s a boardwalk trail here that is now mostly closed due to hurricane damage. Onward: leaving Pennekamp I pass by Dagny Johnson Botanical State Park Hammock which appears to be walk-in only. Save that for next time. Also passing by Crocodile NWR. Don’t see much there just passing by. This is north Key Largo and there’s another bridge to exit the Keys lesser known or used maybe because there’s a toll to pay. Nice drive. By the way, Rowells Waterfront Park was also closed due to construction. Has it ever been open? Ocean Reef is a gated area. Got gas in Homestead for $3.31 83% still not vaxxed in Africa. They’re too smart. Made it back to central Miami.
Tuesday Feb 22 Donated blood 7am. Here’s Brian Piccolo sports park Hollywood FL. #PrayTheMovies: It prompted me to finally watch the movie “Brian’s Song” found it free on YouTube. Sad. Tearjerker for sure. I guess he grew up partly around here. Chapel Tree Nature Center boardwalk– not much wildlife 10 to 11 am. Now a movie review for Tuesday: #PrayTheMovies: I find a regal theatre nice reclining chairs. Elderly man working at the door. A little too nosy. Anyways, the movie is called “Licorice Pizza”- getting Oscars buzz- came out a while ago didn’t sound too interesting but since it’s getting awards talk– decided to see it- the title is based on the record store around Los Angeles by the same name. Back when record albums were still being sold back in the day when we used record players with a needle to listen to music. Apparently vinyl is making a bit of a comeback. So the movie starts at a high school where they are having student picture day. An older girl assisting the photographer is talking with a male student. He’s combing his
hair. Apparently this scene was filmed at Reseda H.S. I taught there a few times. There’s an explosion in the bathroom. A gag. Where do you live? Encino? Not telling you creep. She says. He asks her to meet him at the restaurant called Tail of the Rooster which was a popular place in Studio City closed in ‘87. Now somebody is listening to Dodgers game they mention Steve Garvey. Photograph assistant is a main character throughout the film (“Alana”, real name Alana too), and the young dude too (“Gary Valentine”, real name Cooper Hoffman). So they meet later at the restaurant. I’m listening to Dennis Prager on the radio while watching the movie. He just said, sarcastically “The left is my source of faith in the Bible.” So true. The left has become so diabolical. Gary takes a plane to be on the Jerry Buss show. Sears corduroy suit. Todd Rundgren new album Gary calls Alana and pretends to be Lance. Then hangs up. Tank tops from back in the day. I remember those. And the tube socks. Phone on the wall with a dial. Back when you actually did “dial” the number. Gary’s younger brother looks like Nick Heynen. Lance goes to dinner at Alana’s house they are Jewish but Lance says he is an atheist which angers the father. After dinner she says something about circumcision. Gary starts selling waterbeds the new fad store called “Fat Bernie’s Waterbeds.” Alana helps him.
#PrayTheNews: Germany suspends pipeline to/from Russia. Back to the movie. They have one of those big TV’s with fake wood trim as everybody had back then. Gary gets arrested for murder. Falsely identified. Quickly released. Not sure why they added that scene to the movie. So Bryan Suits took over for Todd Herman at KTTH Seattle. Was that a hostile takeover or did Todd Herman plan to resign? Nothing in the news about it. Another character in this film looks like Nick Timmer back in the day. More #PrayTheNews: the Peoples Convoy truck convey has begun from west coast to Wash DC. Gary likes another girl. Alana gets jealous. Sean Penn makes an appearance in the move. Here’s one of those old cigarette machines. Bongino says “take your money out of Canadian banks before they
freeze it.” Bongino “Canada voted to make Trudeau a dictator. Sean Penn plays Jack Holder a movie director based on the real life William Holden. Nixon on TV. “Waterbeds are made of vinyl which comes from oil dipshit” Alana says to Gary. IT’s the oil crisis long lines at gas stations. I barely remember this back in 1973 when I was about 6 years old. SO Sean Penn and another character film a scene on a nearby golf course with Penn jumping over a bonfire on a motorcycle. Kind of dumb. Although Penn does a good acting job I despise him because of his far left politics. Here’s Bradley Cooper he does a good job too playing John Peters hairdresser to the stars. “My girlfriend is Barbara Streisand” he keeps repeating. He’s mean to Gary so after installing the waterbed they leave the water running to flood his house. And later Gary smashes John Peters car. Now their truck runs out of gas epic scene with Alana driving coasting backwards down one of the hills of Hollywood. Now Gary opens a pinball arcade– as pinball had been banned in CA since 1939 because it had been deemed a “gambling device. “ In 1974 the Supreme Court ruled it was actually a “Game of chance” not a gambling device so it became legal in CA. There’s an odd character in the movie wearing a #12 shirt. Who is he supposed to be? Couldn’t be Charles Manson that was 1969. This is 1974. Pray away the crappy 1970’s. Thank God they’re over. Now hiking Long Key Natural Area - - fairly nice - across from Flamingo Gardens where I will go in a few days from now.. Has a pond. Turtles. Used to be an amusement park here called Pioneer City. Some big green lizards here. Not busy. City of Davie. Lots of cats at La Quinta Inn as I drive up. Some lady feeding them. From there I went to the local public library which has a big “I LOVE YOU” in front of it.
Wednesday Feb 23 2022 St. Bonaventure church 8am, plus rosary. Like this church but masks still required. Good grief. Still in Broward County. Now I arrive at Flamingo Gardens at 9 am pay the $20 entrance fee. Nice place. Lots of birds – some being rehabbed from injury. Also a bear here. And a tram/trolley tour–they use their own cars to pull the trolley. And a little wildlife show
which includes a small alligator that lost its lower jaw so its tongue is sticking out they have to hand feed it every day. Also a barn owl and a possum. Here’s a starfruit tree. On the trolley a loud goose scared a child who ran away from it. Funny. Here’s a cacao tree. Lots of peacocks here, even one albino peacock (all white). 1 gigantic alligator. Also a Florida panther. Almost a perfect day until I left strange lady as I exit the parking lot. Now at Tree Top park 344 pmbig place- including a pond – didn’t see alligators but lots of green iguanas some fairly big one went into the water as I approached and seemed to walk on water for a few feet then started swimming. Apparently they are an “invasive species” that are not wanted in some places because they “tunnel” and reproduce so rapidly. #PrayTheNews: re Ukraine Russia continues to remain volatile. Now at a new library still Broward County did dictation composition for 2 hours. Finished black book #1.
Thursday Feb 24 blood donation 8am near Palm Springs FL –they’re a little disorganized here. Afterwards Walmart potato salad, lettuce, etc. Now leaving Miami. I-75 north City of Indian Trace 1106am, taking loop past Sawgrass Recreation Park- they have airboat rides here. Trying to avoid toll takes big detour. But scenic. IT goes past a canal for a long ways but strangely, almost no wildlife at all. Here’s Harold Campbell public use area not much to see here either. No birds, no gators. Not much of anything. Although I must amidst FL has done a good job of making water treatment areas very natural. #PrayTheNews: Russia invades Ukraine. It’s official now. Prayers4. America the Band has a lot of good oldies. They still play live at various places. Highway 27 to Okeechobee Park also a canal without wildlife. Smell of smoke. Near Lake Okeechobee (not to be confused with Lake Okoboji which is in Iowa. We used to go there with the Aldingers). City of South Bay 1209. Herbert Hoover Dike. Hendry County 113 pm. Now south on county road 835? 121pm. Looks like plains of Africa minus the wildlife. Biden press conference re Ukraine 143 pm– meaningless. Biden has sold us out. He’s worse than worthless. City of South Bay 1209.
There’s a song on the radio that catches my attention called “Ride on Time” by the Black Box “Gotta get up, gotta get up, gotta get up) Woh-oh .” very passionate. “Black Box is an Italian house music group popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The group is a trio made up of club DJ Daniele Davoli, classically trained clarinet teacher Valerio Semplici, and keyboardist and electronic musician Mirko Limoni.”
Josie Billie Highway? Sam Jones trail. Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. 2pm. Nice Seminole museum here, Ah-Tah-Tiki Museum. Wow. Now on Snake Road at 220pm, and then back on Alligator Alley still the Big Cypress Preserve Recreation Area gigantic parking & boat ramp. Many waterways around here but not like south everglades where you see alligators alongside the road but suddenly along I-75 I see about 20 vultures and they are pecking away at a dead alligator. Also did a bit of Ochopee Trail – there’s a rest area on both sides of I=75 where you can get on the trail thru a gate - you wouldn’t know it’s there unless you did your research in advance. They don’t advertise it. I did a bit of it going south but wasn’t prepared to go very far. Maybe will sometime in the future now that I know where to park. New pop song: “I think about you in the middle of June” song called “Heat Waves “by Glass Animals. “Glass Animals are a British indie rock band formed in Oxford in 2010.” Now hiking panther trail. Not much wildlife. One guy going the other way said he “just saw a bear” but I think he was pulling my leg thinking he would scare me. Not so easily impressed or scared - not by bears around here anyways. I didn’t hear a single thing for the next 10 minutes telling me there was no wildlife going thru the bushes. Great drive up the road north from Panther Trail (highway 29?). That’s where you want to hike classic swamp canal on right side of road. Sleep in Naples.
Friday Feb 25 Two ospreys on top of light posts as I drive to St. John Church for 8 am mass. After mass now passing Vanderbilt Beach going north. Paused at Little Hickory Island Beach Park and
cast my line a few times. Noticed fishermen and kayakers. Lots of mangroves here. Onward north I noticed Lovers Key State Park and cars turning in– decided to check it out– long line just to get in. Pretty nice place popular obviously. There’s a tram to the beach. I walk to the southern end and try snorkeling not expecting too much- but the water is clear. There’s a sandbar nearby so shallow can’t snorkel over it. Lots of shells on beach and more in the water–so I pick up a few. Some nice ones. Back on the tram a lady knew the names of the shells. Wow. Then I took the 2.5 mile Black Island Loop Trail and saw a huge yellow & black snake looked it up later may have been a rat snake. Not venomous. After hike rested and prayed. Also did some parking lot evangelism. Then I took the Eagle Loop Trail. This time I saw 2 dolphins in the river a gal in a blue sundress on an SUP also saw them and was fairly close to them. After the hike I took the beach back to the tram- long walk I probably walked about 10 miles today. Beach almost empty nowbut there was a wedding about to start– good place for a wedding. Took tram back to car and left. Traffic jam going north of course. Turned off where a sign said “Mound House” historic NativeAmerican location now a museum but closed. Still could walk around the area. Rather than fight traffic going north I went back south a few miles.
Saturday Feb 26 8am St. Leo church Bonita Springs – huge building with Mother Mary in the middle of a pond. Now north again City of Estero 913 am. Sign for Koreshan State Park. Maybe next time. Got gas for $3.29 at marathon $60 total. 945 am. Highway 41 is like a long 28th street ( anything highly commercial I compare to 28th street from where I grew up in Grand Rapids– a long stretch of commercial businesses from Grandville to Ada, more or less). Tamiami road. Also near here is the historic Edison & Ford Winter Estate now a museum of sorts. City of Fort Myers. Here’s Edison Mall. Florida Southwestern State College is here as well. Here’s Winkler Ave. Here’s Charlotte Correctional facility 1038 am. Here’s the Caloosahatchee River. Looking for the Charlotte
Harbor Preserve State Park not what I expected small parking area took Datsun Trail for 2 miles. Nothing special. Did see a raccoon at the top of a palm tree. Went up north a few miles and found the better area known as CHEC (Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center) - better trails and a pond - an alligator swimming slowly, also a large alligator snapping turtle- next to some smaller turtles and some fish that seemed to be trying to breath air –they were just floating on the top with their mouths sticking out of the water. What was that all about? I google it later: it could be a sign of low oxygen in the water. Or there are a few species that actually breathe air from the surface.
City of Punta Gorda 146pm, Peace River. Port Charlotte seems to last forever. Sarasota County 232 pm. The Venice Rookery (Audubon society). City of Nokomis 3pm, Pocono Trail Preserve. Oscar Scherer State Park. Now at the Red Bug Slough– as I stepped out of my car to take a quick hike I noticed a guy standing & staring at me. I nodded as if to say hello & acknowledge him trying to be cordial and then I started walking. About 5 minutes down the trail I noticed he was behind me. And there was another couple walking nearby as well. I stopped and commented to the couple about a unique tree and turned around and walked back towards the trailhead for 100 feet or so. The strange guy turned around too. I turned back forward and increased my pace. Not sure where he went after that but I also commented to the couple about it. I increased my pace and made it back to my car not having enjoyed my hike too much. Glad to get out of there. Looked up Catholic Church for evening mass and found St. Martha church at 4pm. As I parked I noticed a fellow sleeping in the parking lot – on the asphalt. What do you do? Nothing. Just make sure he’s not dead or injured and then move on. If he had woken up I would have given him a “cup of water.” Apalachicola River, Washington County 930, OTR: re Island of Only W. S: Sign for Falling Waters State Park. Choctawatchee River. Holmes County 931, Sign for Ponce de Leon Springs State Park pictures look nice. Walton County. Blackwater
River 1052. DJ doesn’t have an authentic identity he’s cut & paste pieces on to himself thru some sort of perverted manipulation of people around him. Every time I think about it I feel sick. Okaloosa County 1040 am. WAAZ radio 104.7 is a nice station (Destin Walton) Santa Rosa County 1107 (or 10:07 now? did the time change?) City of Milton 10:15 am, Blue Angel Rest Area 10:30. Did some spring cleaning in the car. Pensacola 11 am , Escambia County. EnduringWord.Com Prayer-Vis: the parking lot sleeper at St. Martha in Sarasota. “The church is strong in Ukraine” says somebody on the radio.
Entering Alabama 1119am, it starts raining. Made it to Mobile AL for the Joe Cain Mardi Gras procession. I’m just learning about the traditions of this area re Mardi Gras it’s almost bigger than Christmas around here actually it is at least in terms of number of parades and events. I originally thought it was only in New Orleans, but it’s also in Mobile–, and they have an event at Fort Morgan in Gulf Shores, and a few other communities. But of course the biggest is New Orleans. And I originally thought it was one big parade but it’s a month of parades and in some cases one big parade follows another big parade. It’s like having a double Rose Parade. IT’s really incredible (as I will find out when I get to New Orleans in a few days. I’m writing in retrospect in some instances here). So here in Mobile it’s kind of unpredictable when they will roll thru. There’s a general start time but where I was I couldn’t predict when they’d get to our spot on the street. But they finally did. And they throw beads and candy from the floats. But I was underwhelmed by it. Lots of police here. The strange thing was they had a 3-hour gap of time between the 2 parades so people just sit around doing nothing but sitting maybe eating or drinking & partying a little bit. I don’t really “party” anymore and don’t excessively indulge on food etc. It’s too much “down time” between parades. I just took a nap in my car and made some progress on maps evangelism etc. Finally the 2nd parade came around and I saw a bit of it but was glad to be on my way to New Orleans the Big Easy! Found a hotel for the
night in Theodore AL. Monday Feb 28 discovered that Pilot Truck gas stations have free air that anybody can use. Good to know and remember. Got gas for $3.29 – total $65 for 19.6 gallons. The problem with Mardi gras is too many locals don’t really know or are there for the true meaning of it. Radio: somebody talking about the Christian symbols in the Washington MOnument including a Bible in the cornerstone. And the Liberty Bell was named such because of a Bible verse about liberty. I think this is Wall Builders radio program- I went to one of their conferences in Washington DC many years ago. Dave Barton does a good job integrating Christianity and our Founding Fathers and “Original Intent” and the constitution etc. – ie the Christian foundation of our nation. It wasn’t accidental. Now entering Mississippi 713 am. At rest area breakfast of frosted shredded wheat combined with raisin bran. Added oil 741 am. Escatawpa River. Good radio station 89.1 fm Pascagoula (“Christian American Family), “Project Dynamo” is helping Americans in Ukraine. See https://www.projectdynamo.org/.
I see gas for $3.15. Here’s the Tchoutacabouffa River wow that’s a mouthful. 812, On the radio: guitar legend Doyle Dykes. Biloxi River 815 am.There’s a William Carey University near here in Hattiesburg I remember a William Carey missionary college in Pasadena as well not sure what happened to that I remember hearing they were selling the property– not sure if it ever happened. Maybe they’re still there. Here’s a prison every time I drive by a prison I try to do some video evangelism and post it on YouTube and/or google maps. I’ve noticed a few of them have gone relatively “viral” maybe they are reaching the prisoners. Hope so. Here’s the Wolf River 826am, Hancock County 834. Somebody on the radio said we are now at Defcon 2 Level. This turns out to be not true, or not confirmable. As best as I can tell even though Russia is invading Ukraine we remain at Defcon 4. “During the Cuban Missile Crisis on October 16 28, 1962, the U.S. Armed Forces (with the exception of United States Army Europe (USAREUR)) were ordered to DEFCON 3. “ but this article says otherwise “However, the United States’
response to move the DEFCON (defence condition) level to 2 should immediately guide leaders, especially here in New Zealand to understand the broader implications.” and this: “DEFCON MOVED TO LEVEL 2: October 22nd, 1962 at the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis and on January 15th, 1991 when the start of operations began for the Gulf War” https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO2202/S00232/the move to defcon 2 and implications for new-zealand.htm And there’s this: “SUCH SITES ARE UNOFFICIAL SOURCES AND DOES NOT ACTUALLY REFLECT THE
ACTUAL DEFCON STATE, AS SUCH INFORMATION REMAINS
CLASSIFIED “ https://theaviationgeekclub.com/the defcon system and which levels us forces-have-been-in-the-past/. So it may be just people speculating what level we are at.
Sign about “Little River Band” and “3 Dog Night” coming to this area in concert. Harrison County 808 am. Sign for Buccaneer State Park. Looks like a waterpark with waterslides and stuff operated by the state of Mississippi? Stennis Space Center buffer zone 841 am. There’s a NASA test launch site here. I looked at reviews and it seemed to suggest it was open to visitors but at the visitor center they said you have to be an employee to enter. I drove around the area Napoleon Scenic Byway. I saw a beaver happily swimming in the little pond by the Pearl River. They moved the historic town of Napoleon out of here to make way for the “buffer zone” for NASA.
Entering Louisiana 938am Highway 11 bridge is closed. Truck with pieces of wood in the back plywood parts flying out dangerous I quickly passed and honked trying to let him know. Bayou Savage after bridge. - I was going to take the scenic route to the “Mardi Gras World” which is like a museum but a Train is stuck on track so I rerouted. Made it to New Orleans stopped at Mardi Gras World– but they require proof of vaccination for entry– nonetheless I was able to see a lot of the floats inside and outside without going into the official area. From there I went to the “uptown area”found parking 1pm. Took a nap- exhausted. At 515 pm the Orpheus
Parade began and I walked around big floats tons of bead necklaces being thrown probably literally tons when you add them all up from all the parades. Seems harmless enough and people love it. After the Orpheus Parade came the Proteus Parade each parade has a different “theme” or different “people groups.” The Proteus Parade is big too with some floats like train cars connected this one’s a pirate theme, and there’s a dragon theme. People are drinking alcohol but it seems under control– nobody getting crazy. Found a spot for the night.
Tuesday March 1 Now it is officially Mardi Gras day (ie Fat Tuesday) -- the day before Ash Wednesday – now I’m ready at 8am for the 2 big parades known as Zulu and Rex. Zulu parade is mostly African-Americans on the floats and harkens back to their African roots. While the Rex parade is mostly if not all white males. The Zulu parade is supposed to hand out coconuts but I only saw one being handed out. The Zulu parade has some good floats but it was haphazard at first in getting going down the road. It’s all good fun though. People have their barbeque grills and even more sophisticated almost like outdoor kitchens along the parade route with tents covering their “territory” etc. In some places it’s hard to find a place to stand and watch. Lots of beads, footballs, frisbees, and a few other knick-knacks are thrown to the spectators. By the end of it all I had about ten bead necklaces around my neck. Very colorful. Meanwhile I am praying for Ukraine and also praying for people and people groups here at Mardi Gras. Very tiring after all is said and done because I was on my feet the whole time walking around taking pictures finding new spots to watch etc. Just taking it all in – getting an idea what it’s all about for the 1st time. Next time I will try to come back for the whole Mardi Gras month of festivities. From there I went and donated blood. Not too busy. Then to the Walmart I bought lima beans, granola, chicken, potato soup, green juice. Grapefruit juice, bananas & broccoli etc. pretty healthy.
ASH WEDNESDAY 3/21/22 went to St. Joseph church in Gretna (across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, or NOLA for short) and got an ash cross on my forehead. Also submitted my SAR for DPSS including blood payment & FCU screenshot) Noticed Pelicans are playing the Sac Kings tonight and tickets are as low as $6 dollars. Keep that in mind. I found another church for a 2nd Ash Wednesday service– St. Mary Assumption– a stunningly beautiful church– wow. Got another ash cross on my forehead. 3pm. Message from sister re mom having eye surgery or something not many details. Found a place to park near the Smoothie Center which is where the Pelicans play right next to the Superdome. A bit of a walk but not too bad. Did notice several rats scurrying around. Seems to be a problem here. Inside the smoothie center watching the game kind of fun. Speed painter at halftime. Left as 4th period was starting.
Thursday 3/3/22 donated blood again. 8am. Then I got my tire plugged by the blood donation center for $7 plus $3 tip talkative Vietnam fellows don’t see many Asians around here. Then I went to a nearby NOLA library the Algiers library they still require masks here. And then across town to the Smith Library on Canal Street near St. Dominics church did composition at both libraries. 530 pm mass. Friday 3/4/22 830 am mass at St. Dominics. Then I went to the Longue Vue garden/estate – almost paid for the house tour but they required masks and I didn’t want to mask up so I just paid for the outdoor garden self -guided. Nice enough. Next to a golf course. Then back to Smith Library. OTR: “Future Tense with folded hands.” Exercise. Friday night Stations of the Cross at St. Dominics– a lent tradition. Saturday 3/5/22 830 am mass at St. Dominics. 9am leaving NOLA, 1030 thru Baton Rouge. “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell an oldie “Sorry but I don’t pray that way”== what’s the meaning of this song? Grosse Tete. Bayou des Glaises 1112 am Atchafalaya Swamp. 2 guys flags over. Here’s the Knock Knock Children’s Museum. Atchafalaya Basin. Tons of billboards for lawyer Morris Bart around here. Also lawyer Gordon
McKernan. Signs for cracklins and boudin some kind of local food Henderson Swamp I-10 gas classic swamp. Blue Bayou Amusement Park looks pretty fun. Now at Walmart– they don’t have water refill so I have to buy dollar gallons of water for $1 each. Jimmy Swaggart on the radio 91.9fm. Now rain, it stops, clouds, sun, more rain, repeat. I see an RV that says Nomads Mission volunteers on it https://www.umvim.org/nomads. On the radio Alabama defeats LSU in basketball 80- 77 in overtime. Also “Diary of Jane” by Breaking Benjamin sounds like Skillet. City of Lake Charles 2pm. City of Vinton 225. They add “eaux” to the ending of various words to rhyme with long “o” the French way. Sign for Delta Downs race track. Sabine River– Entering Texas 234pm City of Pinehurst 239, Babe Zaharias Museum, Beaumont has a state fair but it’s not the big one which is in Dallas. Here’s the Trinity River 352. “Old and Lost Rivers” what’s that all about? “Why is it called Lost and Old River?These bayous were left behind by the great wanderings, over time, of the Trinity River across the land. When it rains, the bayous fill with water and begin to flow. At other times when it is dry they evaporate and turn green in the sun. The two main bayous are called 'Old River' and 'Lost River'.” Kandy Kaye Horn for Texas governor billboards. Arrival downtown Houston 430pm. Here’s Minute Maid Park home of the Astros, or TrashTros as I call them they won with the help of banging trash cans and got barely no repercussions– they should at least have an asterisk next to their name for the rest of history. Annunciation church is right across from the stadium there’s a college baseball event here tonight people arriving. I managed to find an empty parking space next to a parking meter after 6pm - no payment required. Went to evening mass at annunciation. Slept in Houston. Warm night. Only low of 72 degrees.
Sunday March 6 2022 7am mass at St. Michael Archangel church left early and as I stood to leave a black cop approached me abruptly– then he stopped and turned around– that was strange–and alarming didn’t like it at all. As I am about to discover all the
Houston churches have cops or at least all the catholic churches usually I don’t return to churches that have cops it ruins the spirit -even if they are nice cops. Church is about the Spirit- not law. After Michael Archangel I go to the famous Lakewood Church led by Joel Osteen and his wife. It’s inside the old Houston Rockets basketball arena lots of seats big stage- big screens etc. Not a mega church but a mega mega church. Heard some good music. Good sermon. Osteen has a good sense of humor. One negative was when two Latino workers stopped in front of me and had a conversation blocking my view- as if I didn’t exist. Was that an intentional diss or just total lack of self-awareness? That’s always a problem at big successful churches– you get minorities who come in and get a “job” there and make it theirs. They hi-jack the church in some ways. I’ve seen it happen at more than one mega church. After Lakewood I go to St. Anne church for 11 am service some strange things here as well. And another black cop. Houston people are different. Onward I stop at a museum area including the “Menil Collection” and nearby Center for Photography. Incredible tree here. Black girls posing for pictures in the tree. The Menil collection is a hodgepodge of art with 3 or more buildings each one with a different theme of sorts only one has some real serious art including a few Picassos. The others are so-called “modern art.” All require masks so much for Texas being liberated. At least not in the progressive liberal areas– they love mask. Freakin weirdos.
Then at the Center for Photography the gal at the door says she is certain masks work because she hasn’t gotten covid for 2 years. I could say the same about not wearing masks- because I have not worn a mask as much as possible. Found a gas station for $3.45 17.4 gallons $60 total. 253 pm. Leaving Houston - too hot here. City of Katy 305 pm. amazing and annoying synchronicity at rest area exit. Unbelievable. Had lunch of white albacore tuna, olives, pickles, and Dave’s bread. Colorado River 425. City of Wiemar 434. City of Flatonia. Sign for Natural Bridge Caverns. Will be in San Antonio
for final day of Alamo anniversary. Sign for Wonder World Cave. City of Luling 523. City of Seguin 639 Slept here, nice hotel.
Monday March 7 City of Cibolo 8am, around 3am it became gusty and cold it went from summer to winter weather overnight-. Santa Clara creek. Very clear visions overnight re MijNil agenda to delegitimize me. Also re the danger of deirram selpuoc … beware. #PrayTheNews: Russia breaches cease fire agreement. 830 am St. Joan of Arc church outside San Antonio. 12 noon Little Flower Basilica 120 pm The Alamo is pretty cool to see very historical surprised so many people there. And downtown San Antonio- nice river walk that’s one of their main attractions. St. Joseph German church is nice too. San Antonio old mission is a national park or operated by the national park. Went to Walmart cottage cheese, almond milk, braunschwegger, pistachios, new window screens. USA bans Russian oil imports.
Tuesday March 8 #PrayTheMovies: Now watching “The Batman” movie” 1st riddle: What does a liar do when he’s dead: He Lies still. “They think I’m hiding in the shadows but I am the shadow” gang of punks in the subway attack Asian man. Batman arrives. Kids jeer. “I’m vengeance” grizzly murder scene. “No more lies” the commissioner hates batman. The kid finds the body. “Thanks sweetie” I said to the ticket lady. I wish she had stayed in college and found her true potential. The mayor murder is unsolved. Gotham city. Bruce Wayne is a sketchy character in this film. Tire punctured. Epic battle at night club to get the penguin. Annika Kosolova. The Riddler claims responsibility. Here’s the cat woman. The commissioner gets killed with some sort of rat trap machine. Crooked cops. Why bring babies to this movie baby crying behind me? Colson the D.A. Batman equips Cat woman with a camera on her eyeballs– like contact lenses that can transmit what she’s seeing in real time. Batman watches on a monitor. The Riddler kills the D.A. Bruce Wayne looks like Scott Baio or Kelly Slater. “A rat with
wings is a stool pigeon.” Funeral for mayor. Bruce Wayne appears disturbance at funeral car smashes in boom explosion. It’s colson. Batman not good at flying. A “penguin has wings too.” Here’s the bat mobile a new age version. Davis4Dallas.com on the radiorepublican or conservative for judge? I listen to the radio while I am at the movies. My epiphany is that Korhorn copped a fake work ethic which actually was demeaning towards others - it was selfserving. Epic chase in the movie. Was Bruce Wayne’s father corrupt? “Sins of the fathers” it’s complicated. The druggies are called “dropheads” like “meth heads?” They try to kill Bruce Wayne’s guardian. He survives. It was mean to kill Batman actually. “Falcon is my father” says cat woman. A Rat with wings –sounds like a bat. There’s also something about el rata vs la rata feminine vs masculine article in Spanish I found this:
“When they confront The Penguin, they realize he is not the one they are looking for although he gives them the crucial clue. When they say the phrase “el rata alada” to him, he points out what is wrong. Because rat is a female name in Spanish, it should be “la rata.” So why did The Riddler use the wrong definite article to refer to the rat? Because it’s part of an auditory word game, the kind that probably caused the on-screen crossword solver to shout frequently. After, the complete index is “you are el rata alada.” Say it out loud: URL rata alada.” Not only is the riddle a clue to who they’re looking for, but it’s also a website, https://www.rataalada.com/. The Batman, the website is a place where they can communicate with The Riddler and figure out who his new target is. In real life, this is a website created by Warner Bros. where fans can try to solve The Riddler’s puzzles on their own (as revealed in the brief post-credit sequence at the end of the film.)” https://goodwordnews.com/the-el-rata-alada-riddle-from-the-batman-explained
#PrayTheMovies: pray for justice and righteousness. Don’t throw your life away. Mansion slum. Orphanage Gotham. Pray for orphans. Cat & Bat romance. Cat woman says “Don’t worry I have 9 lives.” We work for Falcon or Falcone. Carmine Falcone is the cat
woman’s dad. Who shot Falcone? Who did they arrest at the diner? An accountant. He’s the Riddler? Another riddle: What is black and blue and dead all over? Another epiphany during the movie–the modern day church has become too much of a “machine” about salaries and careers and pensions etc. Who are you? I’m vengeance. Our scars can destroy us our transform us– give us strength to fight & endure. Another Riddle: The less I have, the more they are worth. Answer: Friends. That’s a good one. Gotham is like DC or Chicago corrupt as hell. Not Washington post but Washington Ghost.
Now at San Antonio Central Library. Coughing man. No timing at traffic lights here. River Walk near the grotto that’s kind of n eat. Here’s the Witte Museum free on Tuesday very busy lots of Latino families. #PrayTheMovies: Now at Dog Movie ( literally just called “Dog”) - the main character is working at a Subway Sandwich shop – cold weather splitting wood sleeping in truck. Staff Sgt Briggs. Fort Lewis. Ranger Battalion. Drunk officer. “Keep Oregon Weird” gun range. Takes muzzle off dog. PTSD. Dog breaks kennel. Chews up seat. Gives dog sleeping pills. Meets swingers. Dog goes crazy. Man throws rock threw his window. Pain kills. Dog escapes. He faints. Wakes up tied to chair. On a marijuana farm. He makes friends with the farmer and wife. Makes it to San Francisco where he plays blind to get a free room. Dog attacks Muslim doctorhis blind act is exposed. He gets arrested. Then thru Big Sur. A bit boring now. One of the characters looks like Patty Dejong. #PrayTheMovies: re human bond with animals and Christian dominion and stewardship. The dog’s name is Lulu. His car gets robbed by a homeless man. They track him down and get their stuff back. Car breaks down. Thunderstorm. Hitch hikes. Walks. Finds shelter in a barn. Makes it to the military funeral on time outdoors in the desert. Panic attack. He’s ok. AMC Alamo- validated parking– nice. Works well. Another night in San Antonio.
Now Wednesday March 9 2022 Go to Walmart, stock up on groceries. Then over to the Espada Aqueduct built in 1740 and still functional, Espada Mission 1731 or 1737. Turtles, osprey. Aqueduct pretty incredible. #PrayTheNews: Russel Wilson gets traded to the Broncos. Carver Library 3pm exercise area. Pickup dude ITF (in the flesh). Here’s the San Juan Capistrano mission of San Antonio– also very historical-. So many historical missions around San Antonio. Spurs vs Raptors tonight– I got a ticket– Spurs coach Popovich could become the solo all-time winningest coach tonight currently he’s tied at the top. Good game but Raptors win so I don’t get to see the historical moment. He will get it next game. Congrats. That’s my 3rd NBA game this trip. Thursday March 10 7am blood donation terminated too busy. Found another location better $80. 9am hike #1 at Voelcker Homestead Trail then over to the Walmart for water etc. new shoes for $30. 12 noon mass ok at the nearby Holy Spirit church. 1pm hike #2 to 3pm at Tobin Parkred cardinals, numerous deer. Strange guy walking down the street carrying a big screen TV. Cop pulled about and I pointed it out. 4pm Lady Bird Park - maps evangelism etc.
Friday March 11 2022 9 am St. Anthony Padua church, FCU $250 cash for gas in case of cash discount. McNay Art Museum looks nice maybe next time. Leaving San Antonio. 13.5 gallons $50 3.69 at Coyote Gas. Here’s Lackland AFB. Hondo Creek – not much water in it. Here’s Our Lady of the Lake University nice church architecture. Nelson Wolf Stadium home of the San Antonio Missions minor league team. City of Castroville 1122 am. Managed to finally pay Sunpass toll bill for the bridge out of north Key Largo. City of Sabinal. City of Knippa 2pm. City of Brackettville. So many cops along highway 90 . Lots of signs for creeks as we go over them but none of them have water. When is a creek no longer a creek? Gusty winds. Something about Buffalo Springfield and Calvary Chapel– what’s that all about? I went to Calvary Chapel for a while as I was exploring churches. I was there for a while before Chuck Smith died. I remember hearing him preach several
times. Then his son-in-law took his place, and controversy ensued. Then it was suddenly quiet. Not sure what happened. Maybe somebody paid somebody off. City of Del Rio 346pm. It’s only 49 degrees mid-day here. Cold. Sign for Amistad National Recreation Area. Is there a drought here too? Or is that the normal water level. Seems low. A-hole truck driver LP4TV131 Sunview Logistics (Stockton company) ph# 925-230-0999. Made review complaint and blog complaint. Their Stockton maps site(s) does NOT have a website. Here’s my complaint:
REPORTING BAD TRUCKER from SunView Logistics (license plate # was 4TV131)
Around 5pm on March 11 2022 I was going west on highway 90 approaching Langry TX using cruise control to maintain a steady speed of 60mph. Lots of drivers want to go faster and so, whenever there's a "pull off" for slower traffic, I use it and allow others to pass. However, it is NOT my obligation to put on my brakes and stop or even slow down to allow them to pass. It is THEIR obligation to be going faster or speed up in order to successfully pass before the pull off merges back to one lane.
A trucker from Sunview Logistics was NOT going fast enough to successfully pass. I waited as long as I could to the last moment and he was NOT increasing in speed as we approached the return to one lane. I was STILL in front of him so I merged back in and he continued to try to pass even with oncoming traffic. I had to FLOOR my gas pedal to avoid a dangerous situation. He was 100% wrong and I think was having one of those "Hollywood moments" in his head (ie "a legend in his own mind"). I think his license plate # was 4TV131. I drive 1000's of miles regularly and have a perfect driving record without conflict with others. Please REPRIMAND your driver. Very rash and dangerous of him.
END COMPLAINT
City of Langry & Judge Bean museum (closed). Song on radio: “Jesus is the Jubilee.” Long stretch of no internet access. Listening to patriot music cd. Slept in Fort Stockton. Saturday March 12 2022 The stretch from San Antonio (or Dallas/Fort Worth, or Austin) to Phoenix area is kind of like the long stretch from Salt Lake City to Reno. Very long. Not much to see or do along the way. Got gas for $4.09 total $73, 18 gallons. Big fat obese Latina clerk was too lazy to put paper in the gas pump so I had to walk inside and she didn’t say hello or thanks or anything to make both of our days a little better. She stared at me without a word as if she could care less whether I was alive or dead. I will try to pray for her nonetheless. 31 degrees when I woke this morning frost on the windshield. Exit 159 I stopped at one of the roadside “highway markers” something about the “Feely Cemetery” pioneers bodies buried here in unmarked graves. 1054am. Rest Area 930– added a quart of oil. Kid on scooter. Got free Air at the Flying J Truck stop. Now near Balmorea State Park- looked it up will try to go here sometime they have a natural spring pool with clear water and fish in it you can swim and snorkel in it. Also near Fort Davis State Park.
Now passing thru City of Van Horn TX (purposeful exiting I don’t always have a practical reason to turn off the interstate to pass thru a city such as to get gas or food– but I will often do so anyways to do video evangelism and get a feel for the city). #PrayTheNews: 80 persons executed by Saudi Arabia. El Paso gas is $4.16 at best I got 9 gallons for $36.57 best I can figure is it is costing me about 16 cents per mile at least from Fort Stockton to El Paso. Pull in at Walmart and buy some ice cream, pickles, peas, chips, cashews.
Sierra Blanca 1209 a ramshackle town. ENTER NEW MEXICO 249pm- something on talk radio about UnAmericanExpress.com American express is using race-based policies to cause divisiveness. Also ColorUsUnited.org - looks similar to UnAmericanExpress.
Entering Arizona 449pm sleep in Willcox. Sunday March 13
Tucson: 730 Santa Cruz church lots of cats in the courtyard. 8am St. Augustine Cathedral, back on I-10 – here’s Picacho Peak– looks like a fun hike to do sometime. 853 am. Sign for Casa Grande Ruins. Paul McCartney on radio “With a Little Luck” - back when he was with The Wings (1978). Made it to Tempe- almost went to Resurrection Church where I remember going the very 1st time I was in the Phoenix area– funny how the “first time” is always so etched in one’s mind. I remember this church in particular because they have saguaro cactus in the parking lot. It’s kind of a small congregation so I decided to go on to Holy Spirit church instead- not far away. I want to be unnoticed if possible. 1230 – make it to Aquinas Church in the Litchfield area of west Phoenix. Always try to go here when I am in Phoenix or passing thru. Gas $4.32 at Tonopah AZ $60 13.8 gallons. 30 cents less than most other stations. City of Quartzsite 348pm. Prayers for the Colorado River Indians. Top off gas for last chance before entering CA in Ehrenberg AZ $4.59, 6 gallons, $30. From here on it will be at least a dollar more everywhere.
Entering CA 415pm border patrol not even stopping people like they used to do they’re just waving everybody thru. I see a huge sandstorm in the distance not on the highway looks like it is passing over Lake Tamarisk (so-called Lake. Is there actually water there? ). I periodically monitor Alex Jones to see what he is spouting off about- sometimes he has knowledgeable guests and does a decent interview of them; other times he just rants and raves and gets too vulgar and I switch him off. He often talks about the “globalists” – and it took me a while to catch on to what he is talking about but I am finally beginning to “get it”-- it’s those who don’t recognize any national boundaries or patriotism but want us all to be sort of “world citizens” with themselves the wealthy elite being at the top of the pyramid so to speak. HE often speaks of George Soros as such and also often mentions his “New World Order” agenda. It finally hit me that I experienced such a mindset amongst
a few lefties who infiltrated Calvin College when I was there and they tried to falsely befriend me pretending to be friends and I could never put my finger exactly on why I felt uncomfortable around them. I thought I was being too particular and tried to be more “easy going” but never really got to the point of feeling comfortable. And now I realize they had an agenda and it wasn’t because they liked or admired me. I call them the “Evil Axis.” And I sometimes add DJ to that club– especially after he married a nonAmerican. We call republicans who are Republicans in Name Only RINO’s. Likewise there are Americans who are American in Name Only ie AINO’s. They don’t have sincere allegiance to their country. And it’s not because their Christian faith takes higher priority it’s a laziness a self-indulgence they are like bad apples as they say “one bad apple ruins the whole batch.” And they try to transcend accountability by being AINO’s.
Onward I go: Here’s Chiriaco Summit 526pm - & Patton Museum. Every little “ditch” has a name along this stretch one time I started writing them all down- And if it’s not a ditch it’s called an “arroyo”, or a “wash”, or a “gulch” - not sure how they make the distinction. Exit Washington Street in Indio- or Bermuda Dunesthis is where I originally lived when I came to Coachella Valley in 1994 having been hired to be a teacher. I’m not going to rehash that fiasco- but all the memories flood my mind briefly. Then I pass by the Indian Wells tennis center the pro tennis tournament is in progress at the moment. Naomi Osaka broke down in tears here due to heckling from a spectator. I used to come here every year for the first few days now they have become so lefty in requiring proof of vax etc – it’s no fun. Monday March 14, 745 am mass at Sacred Heart Palm Desert my usual church here. Then I hike the loop trail nearby good workout I’m feeling more tired than usual haven't had much strenuous exercise recently. My body is low on protein I find out as well. Over to Palm Desert library– do some composition–and then decide to make the trek back to L.A. /OC – hopefully before rush hour. made it only a few slowdowns. Now in Garden
Grove- attend evening service at St. Columban been coming here for years. Tuesday March 15: 830 mass back at St. Columban. Tried to donate blood but they tell me my protein level is 4.1 – needs to be at least 6. So I go to Walmart and buy my unusual brand of protein shakes haven’t been drinking them lately that’s probably why. Stopped eating meat for a while too. So I drink 4 of these heavy protein shakes and also cook some hamburger. Hopefully that will bring my levels back up.
Then I go over to Garden Grove library and do some composition. There’s a guy and lady causing some issues library staff called police– they just arrived– everything transpires peacefully- problem solved. It’s Tuesday so I need to do a Movie Review for Christians not many new Hollywood films out #PrayTheMovies: but I haven’t seen “Uncharted” yet. So this is a film with Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg- starts with Holland free falling from a cargo plane – then it flashes back to Boston 15 years earlier– art museum. Police catch a kid and his brother as they are sneaking thru an art museum. The older brother escapes. “Just remember. You are a Drake.” Now New York City on the subway the younger brother (Tom Holland) is older- and a pickpocket thief. Also a bartender. Wahlberg calls his bluff. Leaves a note “Thou Shall Not Steal.’ Something about the “House of Moncada’. Now they are at an art auction =-- their plan is to steal the cross – which is the “key.” They manage to do it with some drama & theatrics. And then they go to Barcelona Santa Maria del Pi, or pine. They show the Sagrada Familia we visited this on a class trip during our semester in Spain. “Trust in fellow man. One to heaven the other to hell”, new mapchase, nobody trusts anybody else. They’re all in it only for themselves. Now Kiamba Philippines, “They keys are your compass” his address is 304 Chennault New York City 10002. Cala de Oro. Chloe keeps betraying the kid. They find the gold on some old pirate ships– but there’s a final chase- etc. Axis of Evil: Tehran, Beijing, Moscow (Mark Levin). Pray for Bakersfield man re marriage annulment. James Golden has his own radio show now on
3/15/22 Tuesday 7am tried to donate blood but my protein level is very low. after mass at St. Columban , exercise at garden grove community center- long line of cars here-apparently they hand out free meals to seniors every tuesday from 9-10 am just wish they didn’t have to idle in their cars to get them. Another big waste of gas – and expensive for the drivers too. 10 am I go over to the GG library start composition work- there’s an incident at the library while I’m there- GG police come to take care of it. As usual too many and they get all excited adrenaline pumped how many “incidents’ become violent because police get too excited bossy and aggressive? In this case the minority cop is getting bossy towards the white guy looks like an out-of-towner has a female companion with him they both look like intelligent people but temporarily down-and-out. Not sure what’s going on but they called the police about the guy for some reason. But the lady doesn’t seem to be a victim. I just hear the librarian say something about the guy “blocking the door” or something.. Now there’s four alpha male cops here. Same workers here as usual. I feel sorry for them this is their WHOLE LIFE it’s all they know every day until they retire and then they will die shortly after retirement. So sad.
#PrayTheMovies: re “Uncharted” with Tom Holland & Mark Wahlberg (Garden Grove REgal, 1st time here, nice enough plus Tuesday discount). Starts out in cargo plane tom holland is free falling out of it. Then they flash back to how they got there police catch a kid and his brother in an art museum. One brother escapes. The other brother (tom holland) gets busted. Brother says remember “You are a Drake” (last name). Now NYC subway, tom holland is a petty thief now on subway he pickpockets somebody. #PrayTheMovies: “Thou Shall NOT steal.” And he’s a bartender.
Search “House of Moncada.” He’s a jaded New Yorker. Wahlberg is also a thief- finds him and enlists him to help steal a famous cross at an auction. Something also about a tree in Barcelona..and a map etc. Santa Maria del Pine. They go to barcelona they show the Sagrada Familia (been there !). “Trust in fellow man one to heaven, the other to hell.” new map. His address is 304 Chennault NYC 10002. traitor. She knocks out Holland. Now the Banda Sea? Kiamba Philippines. “The keys are a compass.” They kill Antonio Sabado. Cala de Oro. Chloe keeps betraying the kid. Pray for Bakersfield man re marriage annulment. Pray for axis of evil to repent : Tehran, Beijing, Moscow (Mark Levin).
March 16 Wednesday After consuming lots of protein, the next day my levels are good again. Donated blood 70. Finished composition at G Grove. Now at NBPL 1st time back in a while. More work on computer. Over to CDM (Corona Del Mar)-- did some snorkeling and saw something metallic down deep– dove down– it was a scuba diving flashlight and it still worked when I turned it on. Very heavy too. Looked it up online these sell for $150 to $200 . wow. Somebody is upset to have lost such a valuable flashlight. Not much use to me really. But I put it in my car not exactly a big market out there for $150 used scuba diving flashlights I can’t imagine. If you’re buying those anyways, you can probably afford another new one.
I DO have a scuba diving license and did all the PADI requirements completed my open dive in Borocay Philippines when we were there on a summer mission trip with the CRWM (Christian Reformed World Missions) but I haven’t done much diving since then. I enjoy snorkeling enough get wet cool off experience some depth see colorful fish and fauna. And there’s enough good beach snorkeling you don’t really need to go buy or rent a boat to get to better places unless you have money you want to waste. Back to NBPL after snorkeling- updated Calvin College blog getting good stats on this people are tuning in. Found the link
to my academic honors moment at Calvin a little brochure they printed showing show made academic honors one of my proud moments having worked my way up to a 3.5+ gpa. It hadn’t started so good my freshman year when the Art Professor enlisted me in his Art History class the absolute most difficult class for art majors and I was a freshman and not an art major. Not sure why he talked me into it or why I listened to him. But it made my first semester overly difficult for no reason– managed to get a C in the class – and that was him being generous. There was way TOO MUCH memorization of architecture and columns etc and you had to be able to identify hundreds by memory in the final exam. The only good thing about it is that it stuck in my craw all these decades later and I appreciate good art more because of it. Nonetheless I had to crawl out of a hole to get my GPA up ex post facto.
Thurs March 17 2022 Happy St. Patricks Day Michigan defeats Colorado State in March Madness 1st round. New Mexico State upsets U Conn. and the biggest upset and cinderella team of this years bracket is St. Peters who starts out with an upset of mighty Kentucky.. Richmond upsets Iowa. Another swim at Corona Del Mar. updated top blogs. Cleared SD card on phone $#1 pdf’d a lot. Friday the 18th 7am another blood donation. Tried using my right arm but they had trouble with it I used to alternate arms every time but now they tell me my right arm vein is “too small.” Wasn’t too small before. What happened? It shrunk? SO I go back to left arm. 835 am St. Columban Station of the Cross and then over to Crystal Christ Cathedral for 1115 am station of the cross but the students didn’t show up they’re on spring break- they forget to update it online.
First time I’ve been back inside the Tower of Hope office building (talked to the secretary). 1pm went to Artesia library for a while & made some CP & composition progress. 5pm went to nearby Holy Family church – used to come here quite frequently for 5pm mass–majority Filipino parishioners here. NOw they don’t have the same
mass schedule. But they do Stations of the Cross on Friday- and the lady asked me to read aloud at one of the stations. Actually made me a little nervous since I’ve gotten so accustomed to trying to blend into the background. But I managed to do it. Then I went over to 615pm mass at St. Bernard Bellflower the new priest here is the priest from St. John Fisher. What a change of location for him. I think he’s Korean. After mass I tried to catch the Knights of Columbus Friday Fish Fry (for Lent) but arrived just as they were closing up. 1 am stopped in at the office picked up some mail. Left a note for Jim Linda. Saturday 8am mass & rosary at St. James REdondo. Depo 1k FCU. Swim decent waves. UTH- PV lib made photo pdf progress from recent chapter of AmeriPrayer.And the B is back at PV lib unfort. Passed by SJF for E-mass. March Madness: North Carolina upsets defending champion Baylor in OT. Michigan defeats Tennessee.
Sunday 3/20/22 There’s a problem at Rolling Hills Covenant–something strange about going there I’m just getting tired of the OCD there-. Every church has certain members that have an OCD characteristic same place same time every time. It’s unreal. Left early went to 10am at St. Margaret Mary. usher stood in front of me as if I didn’t exist- so I stood up and left (something similar happened at Lakewood Church in Houston -bizarre). 11am St. Lawrence Martyr – Irish priest ( is he visiting), Not Paul Dotson this time who can be a bit of a prima donna sometimes. 12 noon HUGE 6 foot waves at Redondo never seen them so high but it’s a blowout so nobody is surfing but it’s fun body surfing or getting pushed around by the waves I”m the only one out there. Loving it. 130pm back at PV Lib composing. MSU loses to Duke (Coach K’s final season) in sweet16. Iowa State defeats Wisconsin. #1 Arizona wins. Synchronicity re Big10 Big 12 as I listen to radio. Monday March 21 2022 more CP progress. 11am Swim. 1230 to 2 at Malaga –spell check composition. 3pm Swim #2 better. 430pm Maps Evangelism mostly S.A. Tuesday March 22 8am mass & rosary at St. Jame (Thaddeus). 9am 99 cents groceries (cabbage, dressing
without soybean oil, braunsegger, raisins, almond milk, peppers, sproudsd, green onions, apple cider vinegar, croutons, cottage cheese). 11am Swim RB (almost got hit by a surfer. Grinned and said “YOu almost got me” ). Afterwards more maps evangelism. Movie Review Discount Tuesday #PrayTheMovies: film called “Compartment 6” - a Finnish film a little too “alternative” in some regards at the beginning but better – more redemptive- at the end. One of the characters reminded me of B-rab. Now she’s on a train wanting to see the petroglyphs in the middle of winter traveling thru Russia by train to get there. Most of the movie takes place in “compartment 6” on the train where this professor lady gets assigned to a random Russian guy as a roommate for the trip. At first she hates him but as the trip ensues they become friends even during one stop visits his mother’s house in a stolen car.. he’s a jerk at times. But they begin to understand each other. Did she convert to traditionalism over the course of the train trip? The dude looks like Tim Kwekel or Kim Kooiker’s cousin. Petrazavadosk? They both smoke a lot. Seems like all russians (in this movie smoke a lot. Balalaika is a Russian musical instrument. And they drink vodka together. Straight from the bottle. Her camera gets stolen by somebody she trusted. She cries heartbroken. Arrive at petroglyph city but they try to tell her you can’t get there in winter. Her dude buddy arranges a special charter boat to take them. Mention of Solzenitsyn who predicted a Marianic apparition (was that in the movie or on my radio? I listen to radio news sometimes during movies). They didn’t show the petroglyphs in the movie did she actually get to see them. This actress has an incredible face very realistic wears every emotion on her face. The guy leaves and leaves a note.
#PrayTheMovies: Belfast- (Oscar nominee)-- 1969 all white kids playing on street by homes.. Suddenly a bomb, molotov cocktails. Bricks thru windows. Car blows up. This is the catholic versus protestant turmoil in Ireland back in the day. “I’ve had too much God for one day” which road will you take? the whole movie is
black and white by the way. Dad returns. Cleaning up. Nobody killed. Dancing in the street. Watching Star Trek on the “tellie” (TV). Now a raquel welch movie. Hell fire preacher at church. Now a John Wayne movie. Young kid main character looks like brother Stevie K. The kids steal chocolate bars but get busted. PRCH GRCH. I pray during the movie. The dad’s line to his kid is “If you can’t be good, be careful.” “You’re not a real protestant, you’re a gangster” Now Chitty Chitty bang bang. kid playing with matchbox cars. #PrayTheMovies: for Unity of the Body of Christ this was an easy prayer theme given the Protestant vs Catholic conflict. The bad guy in this movie looks like Bobby Schuller. END review. By the way–re March 25 Consecration for Russia/Ukraine (Pope’s edict). Apparently the Russian Orthodox arent too happy about it. Are they basically a “state church” or what? Consecration means to “set apart for” and I have been living a consecrated sexual life (or lack of) for God for many years now. Didn’t initially know the word for it but now I do– it’s “consecrated” which is for a godly purpose–whereas being “celibate” could be for any purpose. Women sometimes call it “chastity.”
Wednesday March 23 8 am one mile walk PV. 10 to 12 made pdf progress. 12 to 2 PV walk #2 - friendly ladies on horses- patted the back side of one of them as they passed by. They sounded British. Back to PV Lib 3 to 630 maps evangelism and physical recovery. Hadn’t had a strenuous hike like that in a while that shouldn’t be too strenuous to much driving. Watched 2 Oscars shorts. Thursday 24th 8am walk, there’s the creep again this older fellow hikes the same trail around the same time he must live nearby but now everytime he sees me coming he steps several feet off the trail into tall grass it’s awkward- and weird I try to make friendly small talk in passing this time I say “oh, still social distancing eh” he nods. I say “You forgot your mask” If he wants to play that game. He’s a weirdo. Try to avoid taking that trail from now on for a while. Meanwhile a runner lady is friendly– passes me twicelooped me. Says hi twice. Now at PV lib y -tube update. 3 geep
videos from years ago I had forgotten about them. Another walk school groups hiking here now. One girl waves at me from a long way so I wave back from the stairs– and she exclaims excitedly to her classmate “He waved at me.” #PrayTheMovies: film called “CODA” (meaning Child of Deaf Adults) (will win best picture Oscars 2022) (I’m trying some of the paid services now for the 1st time including Apple TV & NetFlix ).. They are out on a boat open sea pulling in fish from a net and sorting them. Music playing “Sometimes I get a feeling” they all use sign language. 1 girl 2 men. Turns out to be a family: Father, son, daughter. Back at the dock. The girl isn’t deaf the rest of the family is. She’s feisty. She exchanges friendly insults with her brother. Now at school. She falls asleep works too hard. She’s embarrassed. Kids mock her for smelling like fish. Now new choir class. Kind of rural or redneck Parents pick her up in pickup truck kids mock her again. Doctors office scene funny. Deaf dad is funny.
And the NEAT thing is they used REAL DEAF PEOPLE. Mom says “Don’t slouch.” She runs out of choir class when supposed to sing solo. Government wants to put a monitor on the boat ,the dad smokes a joint. Looks like Winny Devries. Now at the bar he can’t join in - not fun for him. He gets in a fight. Looks like DJ. “Its a love song not the pledge of allegiance” 423 pm she has a “kooks” poster on the wall. Emilia Jones is the actress - she’s British– so many British actors play american parts these days. Another character looks like Tim Maat. The dad makes a passionate speech at the meeting calls people who can hear the “hearing bitches.” 3 am wake up, coast guard radio they can’t hear it causes legal trouble. The choir teacher is played by Eugenio Derbez (Dr. Doolittle, Mulan, Hellboy, Miracles from Heaven, Secret Life of Pets)- he’s originally from Mexico. “If you waste my time I will not work with you.” She misses 2nd session. “I want to go to college” “Singing is what I love.” The observer boards the boat. She doesn’t know they’re deaf? Looks like Barb wiersma. Cliff jumping. This is Massachusetts.
Brother & sister have conflict. She gets accepted to the music college.
#PrayTheMovies: “Macbeth” with Denzel Washington “Fair is Foul, foul is fair. “ birds circling. Footprints in snow. “All hail macbeth…shall be king.” The 3 ladies predict the future? the actress from Nomadland is in this movie –she plays Macbeth’s wife (Francis McDormand) here’s banquo. Full moon. Spot light soliquy. Sports News: Arkansas upsets Gonzaga , Villanova defeats Michigan. MacBeth kills Duncan. #PrayTheMovies: - now reviewing “Power of the Dog” supporting character “sees the light” and rejects the depraved life of the cowboy. Morality tale. Good ending. Why was it so difficult for the kid to learn how to ride a horse. Almost anybody can do it easier than riding a bike. #PrayTheMovies: “Tick Tick Boom” - I terminated this early after doing research on it as I was watching. It’s a propaganda film for alternative lifestyle. Don’t recommend. Friday 3/25/22 8am prayer & mass & consecration for Ukraine/Russia , prayed rosary, overcast day.
Funeral for Jack Simmons the sports broadcaster after mass. Sat in and observed briefly. Bagpipes. I don’t remember him personally but his bio says he did many of the big sports events including World Series , SuperBowl, boxing matches, and more. New movie “Mitchell versus the Machine” –animated Oscars nom. Caught my attention when they mentioned “Kentwood” (a suburb of michigan) clever funny film. Katie weird art. Hamburger animation. Macho dad doesn’t understand it. Etc. they take a family trip. Mules in the Grand Canyon. St. Louis Arch, Yosemite, Niagara falls, etc. “dino stop” explosion. Robot rebellion. “You’re hiding behind the phone. No more phones” They hide in the icebox to avoid the robots who can detect body warmth. Dad smashes the phones. Types of PTSD. “your drawing worked. I didn’t know art could be useful” “Father I crave your wisdom” “This is like Dawn of the Dead” “here’s an empty bottle. You know what to do” upload failed (unable to save the world?) so now they’re trying to get to Silicon Valley. Added
consecration video to tube. Surprisingly got numerous views.
#PrayTheMovies: New Oscars movie review called “The Lost Daughter” she’s a professor. Seaside vacation. Alone. All white clothes. She falls. This is a “flashback film” where she has repeated flash backs to her younger self as a young mother while starting out as a professor. It seems like she’s a schizophrenic. Looks like Judy Dejong. She’s people watching. She keeps staring at mother with child. The kid disappears. She helps find. She stole the doll?
#PrayTheMovies: “Audible” 37 minutes. Deaf football player. Maryland. Oh. The whole team is deaf. They have cochlear implants and can feel vibrations. Next movie “Lead me Home” re homeless problem on west coast. Man in tent by freeway. Tent City. San Francisco vulnerability assessment. My thought was why not use rooftops for homeless. Pray for the homeless. New movie “Robin Robin” animated 32 minutes. Cute. Harmless. Rain frogs animals. An egg falls into creek. Rolls on to land. Stops. Mice family. Robin hatches with mice watching. The mice family adopts the bird. Robin thinks she’s a mouse.
#PrayTheMovies: “Hand of God” felt a little queasy after watching not good. Can’t recommend. Italian director kind of a soap opera involves their soccer hero Maradona. Back to MacBeth (with NetFlix etc I now review several movies simultaneously stopping and starting, switching and pausing). “Are you so gospeled (sic)” he asks. “We have scorched the snake , not killed it” “full of scorpions is my mind dear wife” “blood will have blood” “the weird sisters” “by the pricking of my things something wicked this way comes” “for a charm of powerful trouble,. Like a hell-broth boil and bubble. Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn and caldron bubble.” Beware MacDuff. Macbeth killed new king. St. Peters cinderella season continues they beat Purdue in 2nd round- they move on to play NC. Kansas defeats Providence. #PrayTheMovies: “Blush” movie- short animated AppleTV, crash landing on mars, planting sapling. Another UFO crash lands next to him. The tree grows almost instantly0 and a red hair girl appears no space suit.
She helps him plant things. They marry have kids. Start life on Mars. Trees. Grows. Water, utopia, or is it? Sat Mar 26 2022 8am mass & rosary overcast & cool. 10am Malaga library, 2 to 330 Swim RB, Resume movie reviews. Disruptive in theatre. Flashback to young lecture at conference. Trying 20Twenty for photo sales. At the end she has memories of peeling orange and calls daughters. #PrayTheMovies: for schizophrenics & mentally ill to turn to God for help! Movie: Girl Interrupted 1999 Wynona Ryder Angeline Jolie, broken lightbulb, they cut themselves in the cellar depression. “Maybe I am crazy” she says. Now at psych hospital she takes taxi there. Admits herself. Lots of smoking. “Explain to doctor the laws how the laws of physics can be suspended?” Susanna is the main character (Ryder). She overdosed on a full bottle of aspirin plus full bottle vodka. Claymore Psychiatric hospital. Whoopi Goldberg is in this. Wynona calls herself Jewish she was born Horowitz =-- from Winona MN but moved to CA early on born in ‘71. Timothy Leary was her godfather– no wonder she’s messed up. ON father’s side there were holocaust victims. She named herself Ryder after her dad being a fan of Mitch Ryder the rock star. Father was an atheist. Mother a Buddhist. NO wonder so messed up. Age 7 they moved to Northern Cal & lived on a commune. Good grief.
#PrayTheMovies: “Finch” a Netflix film starring Tom Hanks. Music playing “American Pie” Desert? Full body suit hanks- and a robot, dead bodies. Its city but blown out by dust and dirt apocalyptic. Driving heavy machinery. Nobody else alive on the planet? Nuclear fallout? But his dog is alive. Based on Book “Effects of Exposure to Ionizing Radiation?” He has a lab underground–tons of books, it’s his bunker. Electricity still works. Lots of gadgets. Super storm coming will last 40 days. Stares wistfully at a golden gate postcard. 147 degrees outside? Seems impossible. Explains to talking robot “They used to send postcards before the internet.” #PrayTheMovies: Try praying when you are in a disaster, Tom. There was an EMP disaster there’s been talk of this happening
today (2022)--and that we are not really very equipped for it nor for preventing it. Now a tornado. Robot wants to be named Jeff. Hanks says to Jeff: “Trust will get you killed. Trust nobody.” They hide under the overpass but the RV is too high- crunches top of it. Hanks dies so early in the movie. Short movie. The robot is like c3P0 from star wars. Not very original. #PrayTheMovies: “Don’t Look UP’ (Oscars nom) with Leo DiCaprio, giant telescope, hipster science gal monitoring (Jennifer Lawrence). She sees something. Calls her boss - DiCaprio plays an aging Michigan state professor. “I haven’t done orbital dynamics since grad school” WWCSD (What would Carl Sagan do?) looks like a rumpled introvert scientist. Subaru telescope. Dr. Mindy: “I study trace gasses in dead galaxies.” They predict a “direct hit of earth in 6 months” What is IAU? Di Cap can’t believe it Mindy barfs (she’s a PhD candidate and a pothead). Also Ariana Grande in this & worst of all Meryl Streep plays the president of America. Also Cate Blanchett. They fly to Wash DC but the prez is too busy to see them. Sends them to hotel. DiCap says it will be like “a billion Hiroshima bombs” “the white house blew us off.”
Sunday March the 27th 7 am St. Law Mart e-Mass. 9am St. Law Imass. 10 am Neighborhood Church. Lady came in late and hid behind me. Irritating when people do that. This church gives tours now after the service. Back to Girl Interrupted. Masterful performance by Jolie & Ryder- but too crude and vulgar at times. My own experience working in a psych hospital gave me a little insight some things were similar but I worked at a Christian hospital we were more caring and believed in integrating a spiritual element. They didn’t treat Whoopi very well in this film. No wonder she has a grudge after that. Even if it’s “just acting” some things can hurt the soul. “They’re building a new Disney in FL” this is 1967? Wynona is diagnosed with borderline disorder something used in a broad general manner if I recall correctly. Nobody even the doctors know how to really define what it means exactly. It’s kind of a catch all disorder when there is nothing more
specific. It seems to always include depression. “We decide when you leave” the doctor tells Wynona. They mock Whoopi for being black and talk about welfare etc. They escape the hospital and hitchhike with some hippies in a VW van. Meanwhile I researched Jolie’s childhood while watching she had a crazy life even living with her boyfriend in her mom’s house when she was 14 years old. Good grief. “Take a load off Annie” Crazy days. I was just being born around then.
#PrayTheMovies: “The Long Goodbye” wins Oscar- family in small apartment get mistreated song ends in rap. #PrayTheMovies: “Windshield Wiper” gal and guy on beach, semi-animated.. New movie “On My Mind” (18 minutes) at a bar– in French? Guy enters. Owner doing taxes-=. Lady bartender. Guy wants to do karaoke for his wife doesn’t explain at first. But owner doesn’t allow karaoke on weekdays, only weekends. He persists offers money. Grouchy owner relents. Takes the money. Guy starts singing. Karaoke machine malfunctions. Needs to start over but now the owner has had enough tells the guy to leave. The guy says he paid. The owner offers money back. Guy says he’s not leaving without finishing the song. Owner hits him. Wow. Stark moment. Then the guy explains his wife is on life support. The song is for her before they shut it off. Finally the owner shows a moment of humanity. He finishes the song takes the recording to the hospital. Plays it for comatose wife hoping it makes a difference. Song called “On my Mind.” This was a good one. I will remember it. The guy says at the end “it’s for her soul.” Back to “Don’t Look Up” Gold & diamonds on the comet? That’s a game changer. They want to try to break it up into parts so they can harvest the gold without it destroying the world. Di Caps wife finds out he’s having a fling with the blonde news anchor. Jenn Lawrence is now a clerk at a convenience store? She meets a street punk (Tim Chalamat- he’s making the rounds in lots of movies lately). “If we can’t all agree that a comment the size of Mt. Everest is a bad thing, then my god, what have we done to ourselves?” Jenn says to Tim “You believe in God. I won’t tell
anybody. It’s kind of cute” stupid. A little too obvious they like trying to tick off mainstream Christian Americans. St. Peters in March Madness finally tumbles– losing to North Carolina– what a season for the little college. Oscars scandal. Will Smith just hit Chris Rock in the face onstage at the Oscars. Good grief. Was that a publicity stunt? Everybody’s talking it everywhere now. I just tweeted about it myself. Never seen anything like that before at the Oscars. I used to go down there every year and hang out by the red carpet where they enter- pretty amazing the amount of money the throw into this thing you think its top notch security with everything under control but they didn’t control what just happened between Will Smith & Chris Rock.. Later went and hiked the steps a mile up the hill from the PV library- good workout for the calves. Because of the rain the trail was closed so I stayed on the steps. Nosy ranger driving up and down the street. Got a sunny hour to do the steps. Then it rained more later.
Monday March 28 8am rainy again. Can’t hike. 10 am PV lib they used to open at 9am but after covid now it’s 10. A few of the same OCD (obsessive compulsive) characters have returned to the library. Back to girl Interrupted it seems like Jolie may be playing a version of her own real life self to a certain extent. Maybe that’s why she can do it so well. cancelled my Apple TV subscription that was nice for a free week. Meanwhile signed up for Netflix for the 1st time. starting to like it.. Maybe too much. But it’s only $10 / month. I try to review as many of the OScars movies as I can every year. Lots of classic movies that I still haven’t seen. Trying to make up for lost time with Netflix on my phone & unlimited data !
#PrayTheMovies: re “The Irishman” (DeNiro) about Jimmy HOffa and it’s a long one over 3 hours. A mafia movie. CODA just won best picture . That’s a worthy win for once. Big waves at Redondo after storm. I’m the only one out there. Bareback (no wetsuit). Carl Jackson is filling in for Dennis Prager now, day 2. He tells a “crime story”-- he was in prison for a while. Oh I just realized that the girl
with the burned scarred face in Girl Interrupted is Elizabeth Moss wow- she’s quite a character. Seems a bit like a wild child. Also Jared Leto– I thought he was Rob Lowe. Don’t know much about him. Now reviewing “Django Unchained” crazy slave movie lots of Tarantino style violence (this is a Weinstein movie by the way. He’s in prison now). Jamie Foxx plays one of the main characters (Will Smith turned down this part because he didn’t want to be a slave revenge movie). Also Christoph Waltz. I saw his Hollywood star ceremony many years ago when I made it a habit to try to attend as many of those events as possible. I haven’t gone to one in a while though recently. Slaves shackled. Supposed to be 1858? 2 years before Civil War. deep south. Now I’m starting “Uncut Gems” with Adam Sandler so many F bombs very degrading. Sandler plays a jewish jeweler but he’s very secular (maybe Jewish in Name Only? JINO? ie secular jew) NBA star Kevin Garner plays himself in this movie. #PrayTheMovies: Now starting “Green Mile.” Back to Django- the bounty hunter travels under the guise of being a dentist with a big fake tooth on a spring bouncing around the top of the buggy he rides. He encounters a group of slave traders and kills the white guys. Fast with a gun. Now trying to upload my photos to sellon 500px but that didn’t work too great. Canceled that. Started new photo blog called AmeriCamera. I wanted simply AmeriCam but that was already taken. I look up the one called AmeriCam and there’s not much there.
Somebody used the name then lost interest in keeping a blog going. It’s a shame that blogger allows these blogs to sit forever without being used or updated and so you can’t use that name. But AmeriCamera is starting to rhyme in my mind. Saying it in the alternative way. Kind of melodic. #PrayTheMovies: Now at movie theatre on discount tuesday watching oscar winner called “Drive My Car” a foreign film with subtitles. This is a bizarre one to bizarre to summarize nor do I want to describe the details. I actually left early a bit disappointed but at least I got a feel for it– that’s the main point that I’m familiar with the films in general for better or
worse: the good, the bad, & the ugly. Lots of films I will walk out of (or turn off) so I am not stuck with something in my mind that I CAN’T UNSEE. Although as it turns out thru prayer we can over time rehabilitate our minds (ie “transform our minds thru Christ.”)
Two years later in Drive My Car he’s a movie director. He hires actors and they read the script together. And he has a young girl who drives him everywhere (required by the production) in his red Saab around Hiroshima Japan. #PrayTheMovies: re “Infinite Storm” - takes place on Mt. Washington (no, not in WA state, but New Hampshire. ) This may be a bit of an “Arctic” movie copycatnot sure yet. But I saw previews and it had the same feel to it plane crashes high on mountain snow in the Arctic and the pilot has to survive a long trek back to civilization against all odds (along with injured passenger). Mt. Washington in New Hampshire however isn’t all that far from civilization nor extremely high (about 6300 feet). Nonetheless apparently more people die there than one might expect. Anyways, the main character is a lady – going hiking alone–weather looks a bit ominous but she goes anyways. She notices a single car in the parking lot wonders if somebody is up there. Near the top she sees footprints in the snow and notices they are sneakers not hiking boots. She falls into a hole barely manages to get back out. Hears a noise sees a sole person sitting as the snow and wind starts howling. Tries to communicate with him he’s not very able– seems almost unconscious but is a little responsive. She insists on him walking out with him. He goes along at first but fights back a bit. Turns out he went up there with the intention of dying. He didn’t want to return. But she won’t let him go. Based on a true story? And that’s the whole move – the trek down with slips and falls & wanting to give up and she keeps pushing him on..She tells him not to eat snow that will not help with thirst it will actually increase dehydration. He starts crying. The sun is setting. She’s a saint, and a nurse. He falls in ice cold creek water. Thinks he’s gone– but finds him. Now they’re both soaked. This actress is Naomi Watts by the way- another British actor playing an
American. And then they make it to the parking lot and he literally runs to his own car and takes off without saying thanks or anything to the lady hiker. Unbelievable. But somehow the media is able to figure out who is who and eventually they reunited and exchange words at a restaurant. He thanks her. And asks “does it get better?” speaking of overcoming depression because she dealt with it too apparently. #PrayTheMovies: Lots of depressed people need our encouragement and prayers. also Pray for the risk takers to use their courage and bravery for the sake of the cross ! Wednesday March 30 10am PV lib. AmeriCamera progress. Happy Birthday to JIm. Now “Green Mile” - the mouse plays a big part in this film. Take a walk PV. They keep feeding the mouse. Percy is the nephew of a bigwig but he’s a punk annoys the more benevolent guards. He goes nuts trying to kill the mouse. This is death row. They call the electric chair “Old Sparky” They put a sponge on the head of the inmate in the lectric chair to help conduct the electricity. I try to do prison ministry as I travel. You can find my videos on YouTube. Percy just wants the job to see a person fry in the electric chair. The name of Tom Hanks character is Paul and he has a health problem wich the big black guy cures thru some sort of “magical power” or is it religious? Back to Uncut Gems : He gets the stone back but doesn’t have Garnet’s NBA championship ring which he gave as collateral. Flips smoothie in face of girlfriend. He’s cheating on his wife. Now at family meal –they have a Hebrew read aloud prayer. Judd Hirsch from Taxi is in this film. Looks generally the same but older.
Friday April 1 7am blood donation, 830 speedy stations of the cross (Columban) 9am GG library 11am Christ Cat stations of the crosskids version. 1pm NBPL AmeriCamera Progress $40 gas at $5.50per gallon. 530 OLQA Sat April 2 830 am mass OLQA, 9am NB Lib, AmeriCam progress, plus new storyboard website snapshot style (dynamic) Kansas defeats Villanova 81-65. Sunday April 3 830 am Walmart: lettuce, tomato, onion, choc milk, ground beef, ground turkey, cans of fruit, bananas, pepperchinis, fulvic fusion, peas, OJ,
canned spaghetti, applesauce, plus a new shirt. total cost: $100 wow. Passed by Bobby Schuller church (Jim Lin still go there) on way to Neumann Catholic a mile further. Then 12 noon NBPL AmeriCamera progress. New employee strange fellow. That’s all I can say. Made me uncomfortable. 5pm E-mass OLQA. Monday April 4, 830 I-Mass OLQA , 9am NB Lib. to 130. Yesterday when I was scanning a guy stood silently behind me – I didn’t even know he was there– why didn’t he say something or make a sound? 130 - 230 prayer & lunch. Progress AmeriCamera. also saw TG. thought she had moved on to a new job. I guess she works in the back now. Still doing notes on #PrayTheMovies: Green Mile (Hanks), MoneyBall (Pitt) (I was in this movie !) , Irishman (DeNiro), Silver Linings (Cooper), Argo (Affleck, jerk in real life). In GHreen Mile the big guy gives Hanks a vision of what really happened. The guy next to him in the cell is the one who did it. The big guy was innocent. Now TOm Hanks sees it too. Percy gets the big guy treatment and ends up in psych hospital.
Tuesday April 5 #PrayTheMovies: “Lost City” (Regal UCI), sandra bullock, pitt, channing tatum, She’s a romance author. Gets kidnapped. Kansas defeats UNC to win NCAA national championship. 830 OLQA I-mass. Hanks says “This is the first time I’ve ever felt the real danger of hell” he knows the big guy is innocent but doesn’t know what to do. What can he do. He can’t use a “vision” as testimony. He goes to the Green Mile opens prison door. Big guy has a few days before execution. I figured out the Woodward Bernstein conundrum the lady keeps asking for prayers for their family at mass. Turns out that there’s a different Woodward and a different Bernstein both newport beach locals, and one killed the other. Strange story. Strange coincidence. Hanks asks Big guy if he wants a preacher at death. He says no. Hanks asks big guy if he lets him go would he run for it? “Did I kill one of god’s true miracles.” It’s his conscience. You tell God the Father it was a kindness you done” says the big guy. “I want it to be over and done with. I’m tired boss. Lonely as a sparrow in the rain...I’m tired of
people being ugly to each other..” HE’s a CHRIST symbol ! wow. Do you want anything the other guard asks? “I aint never seen a flicker show” he says ( ie a movie). So they let him watch the movie “Top Hat” with Fred Astaire “They’s Angels just like up in heaven” he proclaims. He’s enthralled with it. “It will be alright fellas” “I dreamed about del’s mouse Mr Jingles..dreamed there was kids and they laughed...” The parents are there to watch the execution. This is like Jesus on the cross. The father is livid with anger. He doesn’t know the truth. Only the guards know and understand. Mother says “I hope it hurts like hell” “I’m sorry for what I am” says the big guy. Why does he say that? ‘Please boss. Don’t cover my face. I’s afraid of the dark” no head cover for big guy JOhn. he sings “I’m in heaven..” he tears up. (John Coffey) “May God have mercy on your soul” says Hanks- saying the required words. Paul must give the order. He shakes John’s hand 1st - lets him know he knows. “Roll on 2” the current surges. Guards are crying. He dies. I thought something “magical” would happen. Now they flash forward many decades and Hanks is an old man he’s been retelling this story that’s how the film began he thinks when JOhn shook his hand he passed “life” to him that will keep him living longer than others , or forever? He’s 108 now. He still has the mouse who has the life force too. But Hanks thinks of it as a curse for “letting John ride the lightning.” Now he has to watch everybody die. “For killin a miracle of God.”
Now the lady he was telling the story to dies as well. “I wish for death already” he says. “I think about all of us walking our own green mile in time” “if he could make a mouse live so long how much longer do I have” he wonders. “SOmetimes the green mile seems so long.” Wow- this is a deep film. Has some reformed theology to it as well. Back to Lost City which seems fairly meaningless after that ending of Green Mile. So she gets kidnapped to help the bad guys find the jewel crown “the crown of fire.” the guy was wearing a wig. They take her to volcano island. Her friends with help of Pitt (named Jack Trainer) find a way to track her
location and follow. an archeology dig. Bullock is stuck in a chair for some reason. So they put her & the chair in a wheelbarrow. Car goes over cliff. This is whacky humor. Good for a few cheap laughs. They scramble to the wreckage to find the phone but it’s broken too. “My dad was a weatherman.” Pitt gets killed already. Bullock’s character name is Loretta Sage. “Best way to change a young person’s viewpoint is by having peers tell them” says somebody on radio show. Now they are climbing back up the cliff. He head butts her to keep her going. NOw they are in a cave. #PrayTheMovies: Don’t be greedy like the bad guy in this movie. He will do anything to get the crown. But the “crown” turns out to be a head dress made of shells. “The riches in life aren’t material. It’s about love” says a character. Or did I say that? FightSocialism.org. They hide in a coffin. She leaves her ring in the tomb. We got some extreme heat coming. Get ready.
Wednesday April 6 2022 OLQA I-mass , NB Lib, GLory 2 God progress AmeriCam), swim at NB. saw a cool rock fish don’t see them here very often. Another snorkeler asked me if I found a spear gun. I said no but asked him if he lost an underwater flashlight. He thought I misheard him and repeated “I said a spear gun” I tried to clarify saying “I know. But I found an underwater flashlight last week thought maybe you lost that at the same time.” Guess not. It’s a $150 dollar flashlight. Glory2 God- progress. 2016 Grand Canyon pics. Added new museums and architecture blog, also a zoo blog entitled “All God’s creatures.” #PrayTheNews: the far left radical justice just got confirmed, unfortunately. Friday April 8 2022 7am blood donation- not as hot as yesterday but it will still be warm. #PrayTheNews: War Crimes or false flag in Ukraine? Not sure yet. Elon Musk buys majority share in twitter. Hope it will help. He seems to lean conservative. Saturday April 9: OLQA I-mass, now NB composition, 10 am photo progress. But the annoying person entered the computer lab so I left. Made my way back to PV. Now at PV lib continuing AmeriCamera progress. 1st friendly experience at PV lib gal behind me waiting to fill up her water bottle said
something nice. Wow. A rare experience. There’s hope. I keep encountering a dead Wi-Fi spot here in PV. It doesn’t make sense and I’m wondering if it’s the Spirit prompting me to move on. SO I do. I go down the hill to my other spot near St. James. Is it a “god thing” as they say?
April 10: Palm Sunday 8 am St. James I-mass, 11am St. Lawrence Marty e-mass. 12 noon Swim #1 at RB. 3pm Swim #2 fun waves. Only me out there. Too cold for most people. Too blown out for surfers. Saw a dolphin. And I had an audience. Not sure what I look like from an observer’s viewpoint but every now and then I get people watching me body surf. Do I look good? Or do they just think I’m crazy? Still working on my Netflix movies education: finished Green Mile. Still in middle of Irishman. Starting “Blood Diamond.” Still middle of “Silver Linings” is this Cooper’s first big film? He looks so young. Finished Argo. Finished Django. Still viewing Shawshank. In my #PrayerBook I’m focusing on all the countries of Africa writing down the names . Just noticed Swaziland was renamed Eswatini in 2018 to avoid being confused with Switzerland says the prime minister. That didn’t get much news coverage. #PrayTheMovies: (Oscars nom) “3 Songs for Benazir” a refugee camp in Afghanistan (for Afghans). Young man= he’s a ham for the camera. He wants to join the army but parents won’t sign for it. They’re afraid of the Taliban. The main character looks perpetually stoned. Is he on opium?? Dad wants him to work as a poppy picker (for opium trade)--. Four years later what did he join? HE’s somewhere else dressed in red. What happened? Did I miss something? Apparently this movie was actually filmed over the course of 5 actual years all condensed into 22 minutes.
#PrayTheMovies: Now starting “Social Network” about Mark Zuckerberg. He hacks into Harvard data bases for face pics –calls it FaceMash –it goes viral –he gets in trouble right away. But doesn’t give up makes friends and enemies burns some people. Causes
network to crash. Winkelvoss brothers sue him. Did he go around their back? He’s mono or mega maniacal. Back to Shawshank. Andy’s persistence in letter writing to the state pays off–and they award him with the funds to start a library in the prison. The warden in the film is so bad and so corrupt I don’t like how Hollywood tries to portray him as a Christian fraud. Why do they have to defame Christianity? It’s not based on a true story. Green Mile inmate too creepy crude a bit over the top – took away from some of the goodness of the movie. Likewise the warden in Shawshank too evil. A bit too much over-the-top evil. Al Pacino plays Jimmy Hoffa I didn’t recognize him as Pacino. My lasting memory of Pacino is from Scarface. I think that’s the first movie I saw him in crazy cocaine movie. Now something about the Cuba Missile Crisis (Oct 1962) & Kennedy gets shot (Nov 1963). & Bobby Kennedy was killed in June 1968 at the hotel in L.A. -which subsequently many years later was mostly torn down but part of it was retained and incorporated into the new high school – dubbed “the most expensive school in America” re construction costs (Robert F. Kennedy Community Schools complex At $578 million or about $140,000 per student—the 24-acre Robert F. Kennedy Community Schools complex in mid-Wilshire is the most expensive school ever constructed in U.S. history. Sep 4, 2010.”
And I actually worked there a few times as a sub teacher for the LAUSD and during my lunch break walked thru the historical area they preserved where Bobby got shot. They have a few historical plaques and informational things on the wall. Not sure how tourists can get in there to see it. Back to Argo: mission cancelled. But Affleck (Tony) defies the order–says he’s going thru with it. But the plane tickets have been cancelled. Last minute he gets them reinstate. Was that true? Not sure. What apparently is true is that Iranians spent 6 years putting shredded papers back together. Long delay at airport. One guy suspicious. Last minute they get on the plane and Iran gets call last second that they were bamboozled. They chase the plane taking off but can’t stop it. There’s the dog
lady by St. James again. Back to the Zuckerberg movie (“Social Network”) - the winkelvoss brothers who tried to hire Zuck to work for them– actually they did– feel like Zuck defrauded them out of their idea-.. Apparently they eventually settled and made millions for themselves without having done very much at all except have the idea & hand it off to Zuck, & then sue Zuck. Now watching strange film for Tuesday review at Regal Promenade called “Everything Everywhere All at Once” - starts with a stressed out Asian lady staring at receipts they live above the laundromat they own. Cooking noodles. Divorce papers. Daughter is alternative lifestyle. Main character looks a bit like my doctor, Jaqueline Wong. Funny cause the character’s name is Evelyn Wong (played by Michelle Yeoh). Switch back and forth from Chinese to English- some subtitles. Now they are at the IRS office. She starts having visionsand the whole film starts becoming very “schizoid” that’s the best description (what they call the “multiverse”) –with flashbacks and flash forwards and flash into other realms of reality. Something about divorce papers. Simi Valley, Alpha verse.
#PrayTheNews: Santa Monica mail delivery has been suspended because of danger to the mail people (too many recent assaults of the carriers). Shanghai China is in a total lockdown due to some new version of covid. What’s the significance of the giant bagel? “Please be kind.” Too long– too schizoid too slapstick. People walking out. “An everything bagel of all things deployed as a doomsday device.” I noticed a film called “Navalny” as I arrived at the theatre. Only one showing- last day only 2 days. Looked it up it’s about a political rival of Putin in Russia and how they attempted to assassinate him- I decided to go watch that- paid for another ticketand glad I did very intriguing film clearly reveals how LOW Putin will go to eliminate rivals. We’ve all heard the rumors but this PROVES it beyond a doubt. And Navalny survived the poison, but now he’s in prison on false charges. They seem like a nice family. The daughter is currently at Stanford. Alexei Navalny (did he shorten his name?) starts out with Navalny arriving at a Russian
hospital unconscious. And Russia won’t immediately release him to be taken to a hospital in Germany which family wants. Family is suspicious. Russia denies. Finally they get him released– conscious now- Lots of media. They suspect Novichok poison which they call “Putin’s poison.” “Putin wouldn’t be so stupid” or would he? Navalny looks a bit like Kelly Slater. The only place they produce Novichuk is at a place called the Signal Center in Moscow. So Navalny and his crew look up who works there– public information in general apparently- and then they pay for cell phone data and the “pings” that are emitted on a regular basis-. They see if any of them pinged near Tomsk a city in Siberia Russia on the same day that Navalny was there, and they got several matches. So it quickly became obvious that people from the Signal Center had flown to Tomsk at the same time Navalny was there for a conference. Looks like about 2000 miles away not likely just a coincidence that several were there at the same time. So they had the likely suspects – knew their names -and their personal phone numbers. Next step he actually started calling them. The first few hung up on him but then he reached one of the scientists named Kudryavtsev- and Navalny pretended to be one of Putin’s people trying to find out what went wrong with the assassination attempt. And Kudryavtsev starts talking openly about how they conducted the poisoning sprinkling the highly toxic Novichuk on his clothes at the laundry etc.
And Navalny is recording the conversation and his team is videotaping him as he talks to the assassin. It’s unbelievable. And highly credible. Doesn’t seem concocted. So Navalny has it all on tape and he contacts some of the big media outlets and it gets released all around the same time- on Navalny’s website as well. And goes viral as you might expect. But Navalny is still OUTSIDE Russia. He has not yet returned. He decides to eventually return at which point he is arrested at the airport– where HUGE CROWDS are present– so huge they had to re- route the plane – but there were still some crowds there as well but he gets arrested on false charges
and has been in prison ever since. Two days after seeing the film I noticed this in the news: His lawyer has been imprisoned now as well “Navalny Lawyer Sobol's Suspended Sentence Converted to Prison Term “ https://www.rferl.org/a/sobol navalny prison sentence/31803316.html
Unbelievable. Wednesday the 13th of April 2022 8 am mass at SLM. 10 am at Malaga Library to 330. All day working on AmeriCamera. Then a swim at Redondo. Fun waves. Thursday 14th Triduum begins with Maundy Thursday. 8am SLM. 10am back at Malaga Library. Sunny day. Not as windy.
#PrayTheMovies: Shawshank: Warden says “I believe in Bible & Discipline” Typical Hollywood tries to make the rigorous Christian out to be a major hypocrite. “New fish.” Too much gross crude prison talk & innuendo in this movie. Starring Morgan freeman & Tim Robbins (good job by Robbins). Gives guard tax advice. Here’s your book. #PrayTheMovies: “Argo” planning to rescue the 6. This is 1980. I was 13-yo. Affleck watches Planet of the Apes which sparks an idea to rescue the 6. Canada producer looking for location. They actually reconstructed the shredded files. This all took place from Nov of ‘79 to Jan of ‘81. Warner Studio “Come to Hollywood and act like a big shot without really doing anything. You’ll fit right in” Crossroads of the World scene is right next to the Catholic Church where I used to go fairly regularly for a while.
Moneyball: suddenly everybody doubted Billy Bean & his sidekick but then they go on to have an 18-game winning streak the longest win streak at the time since 1953 and then they make it a 20 game streak– after ALMOST blowing an 11-0 lead– the opposing team tied it up but then Hatteburg was put in as a pinch hitter and he him a homerun to win the game (he’s the guy who they moved from catcher to 1st base and was not very confident). They have a lengthy real footage segment of the 20th win.
Back to Django: DiCaprio plays a mean slave owner really mean & ugly, and Samuel Jackson plays his sidekick mean slave who is mean to Django– I wish I could unsee this– not sure it’s so good for their careers to play such bad characters- and wonder if it affects their actual souls or dispositions to play such bad parts. When Django arrives at the plantation where his wife is she is in the “hot box” because she tried to escape. Django almost loses his cool when they pull her out but barely manages to restrain himself from violence–and sticks to the plan. His wife speaks German her name is Broomhilda. Leo makes her show her whipped back during dinner. The sisters says stop. One of the slave’s names is Eskimo Joe. Back to Irishman: “sometimes you spill a little beer along the way” –that’s the gangster’s philosophical understanding of grace. Now we meet Jimmy Hoffa played by Al Pacino. “Teamsters built Vegas” “Can’t trust millionaire kids” Hoffa hated the Kennedys. Over to Green Mile- they take the magic man to the executive’s home to heal his wife. The executive doesn’t know what’s going on.
Good Friday April 15 2022 7 am blood donation, 830 am Stations of the Cross at St. Columban (in Vietnamese), 10 to noon GG librarymaking progress on AmeriCamera, adding Lake Tahoe 2018 photos. 1pm stations of the cross at Crystal Christ Cathedral. And then back inside at 3pm for the passion (more people). Holy Saturday April 16 8am prayer at St. Columban, 9 am Walmart (cabbage, leeks, onions, peppers, tomato, ground beef, ground turkey, chicken livers, OJ, apple sauce, beef broth, bananas, raisin, cott cheese, pineapple juice, almond milk, veggie juice, corn, peas, kidney beans, chili mix, cheese., 1030 to 1230 AmCam progress GG Lib, 1230 to 130 exercise & #PrayerBook Easter vigil at Columban was way too long. They tried to pack too much into one service including new believers & baptisms.
EASTER RESURRECTION SUNDAY! April 17 8am St. Columban. Gruff fellow Eucharist not so great. Didn’t even say Body of Christ. 930 Christ Cathedral beautiful. - very well done.
Made me feel good all over to see the old Christ cathedral all shiny and clean and hearing the great organ in all its glory. One priest I’m not so fond of is the Smith guy– he’s a local Orange fellow and is very territorial. He even took a moment to “welcome” Bishop Vann as if Vann needs to be welcomed. He’s the bishop. This is his place, so to speak. It’s all of ours but in the structure of the church it is his more than anybody else, and more than Smith. Back to movie reviews: still reviewing White Helmets. Fun to see these Muslims showing such kindness and generosity- great showing for Muslims. End notes says they've “saved over 58000 lives.”
Now watching “My Octopus Teacher” -this won an Oscars for documentary feature 2022 (2021). And it is definitely a fascinating film. And you don’t have to worry about LGBTQ propaganda. However, disappointingly, the main character DOES subtly sneak in “evolution propaganda” from time to time. However, apart from his secular agenda the film itself mostly underwater as this guy develops a relationship with an octopus and films it underwater every day for almost a whole year. These octopus are highly developed creatures in many ways. Amazing abilities. Back to Inception. I missed this when it came out and won some Oscars back in 2011. Not as gobsmacked by this nonetheless. It’s an interesting action film with a creative plot but it’s a little too far out of this world for my taste. Over to “Into the Wild .” So this is a film about a young man just graduated from college (based on true story) who decides he doesn’t want to start living the rat race life or go to law school etc. and decides to start driving west where he ditches his old car and starts hitchhiking and the film follows his adventures here and there (apparently he kept a journal of sorts). They show him hitching on trains, and getting rides from hippie types and sleeping in different places with his tent. And now he’s arriving at what’s called “Salvation Mountain” – out in the far east end of Coachella Valley (Where I used to teach school but never knew about this place at the time.).
Salvation Mountain was started by an old fellow and he slowly built it up to glorify God using all types of junk and tires and lots of paint etc. And nearby there are some camps for travelers (kind of like NomadLand). And he meets an elder fellow who treats him like a son. And stays with this fellow for a little while before finally making it to his ultimate destination: Alaska. All on his own away from civilization - he manages to make it for several months but then he may have eaten some poison berries and died. Found by hunters a few weeks later. Sad but also a good movie about freedom and exploration. I kind of follow such a lifestyle but for a HIGHER PURPOSE– to reach others with the good news of Jesus Christ– like a missionary. I am a missionary. I have handed out more evangelical cards than I quickly count the number is in the 1000’s if not 100’s of 1000’s by now. Praise the Lord! Those are seeds pray for good soil! And I do online evangelism in many different ways. All part of the Great Commission. 1230 Swim at Newport beach. I collected some fresh kelp that I took back to the car. This stuff is really amazing. And most people don’t know how great it is. I use it for the skin, but some people eat it too. I haven’t gotten to that point yet but I can see how it could be just like lettuce or cabbage etc and apparently has high nutritional value as well.
#PrayTheMovies: Now I’m reviewing the movie “World Trade Center” which specifically follows the life of a few NYC cops who got trapped in the rubble for several days and 2 who survived (played by Nicholas Cage & Michael Pena). Interesting. I still don’t know why the entire 2 buildings self-destructed due to damage way up at the top? Did it really demolish the entire infrastructure way down at the bottom? Or were there explosives down below as well? That’s what some people speculate. Over to Inception: DiCaprio is being chased. Now in Kenya? C. Yes. Now reviewing Donnie Brasco: this includes a young Johnny Depp who actually seems halfway normal in this film (1997) - based on true story (from 1978). Depp plays an undercover FBI agent posing as a jewel thief. He gets taken
under the wing of a gangster played by Al Pacino (does Pacino play any other parts besides mafia gangsters?) so now Pacino & Depp are arguing about what’s a better car? A Lincoln or a Cadillac? This is another excessive F word film unfortunately. You gotta wade thru the muck to get to the end. Depp says he’s from Vero Beach. Somebody is tailing Brasco (Depp). A fugazy means a “fake.” Pacino asked Depp what he thinks about a diamond. And Depp says it’s a “fugazy.” Pacino thinks Depp is insulting him– almost fight. Pacino is lefty. Capish meaning “do you get it? Do you understand?” Back to Octopus movie: the pajama shark is one of the predators the octo needs to beware of. The octo starts to trust the diver (actually he’s a snorkeler who can apparently hold his breath for as long as 5 minutes.)A kid just walked past my vehicle and asked her mom “What is abundant life?” I have a sign that says “pro abundant life” from the Washington DC Walk for Life 2022, among other pro-life signs. Monday– almost all day at NBPL – AmeriCamera progress!
Tuesday the 19th of April 8 -9 am prayer. 10-1 AmeriCam including Milwaukee & Jackson Hole 2019, also Racine, Evanston, Chicago and more. 3-6 more AmCam. 6-8 since it’s Tuesday I went over to the nearby Big Newport theatre unfortunately chose to see Fascinating Creatures: Dumbledorf hadn’t been following this series. But what you need to do now before you go to a movie is google “LGBTQ” , and the name of the movie” to see if it has an LGBTQ agenda which SO many do now including this one. I left early. There were a few neat special effects but it wasn’t that compelling I think the LGBTQ thing came at the end so I managed to dodge it. The whole film revolves around a creature called a Quilin/ One of the characters looks like Gal Gadot. Wednesday the 20th of April, 2022: 830 am St. Vincent HB haven’t been here in a while. 9am now back at HB lib- had to update my card to use the computers. More AmCam progress including Mt. Rushmore, Reno, Tahoe, Winnemucca, Lick Observatory, Vacaville Parade, Clovis street fair. 1pm did laundry at nearby place. 2-6 more AmCam progress. 6pm back to laundry finished a few things.
#PrayTheMovies: Now starting new review on Netflix somehow never saw this film called “Apocalypse Now” re Vietnam War– and now I know why I didn’t see it- This 1979 film would NOT be talked about or recommended in my Christian school childhood community. This is the “redux “ version of Apoc Now apparently some scenes that were deleted from the original were put back in. This film includes Martin Sheen (and he looks a lot like his 2 sons in this film Charlie Sheen& Emilio Estevez). Also Marlon Brando near the end of the movie. And there’s Dennis Hopper. Also Laurence Fishburn and Robert Duvall. And directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Starts with bombing. Helicopters. Soldier. Whiskey, gun. Doors music. Fan on celling. Guy in hotel room smoking drinking. In pain/? It’s Captain Willard (Sheen). 2 soldiers arrive at his hotel room with orders to report and escort him there.
Thursday the 21st of April: 8am St. VDP again–, and 9am back at HB lib. More Am Cam Progress. Then over to GG for 3pm exercise (or what I call “self-maintenance” or SM). After exercise- 2 hours of AmCam progress. Then 530 Vietnamese mass at St. Columban. It rained overnight. Friday the 22nd of April 2022: 7 am blood donation (incident). Angel Stadium bought a ticket for the Sunday day game for $9 bucks. Why does the guy insist on knowing my email address– then he requires my license with my credit card– but doesn’t just glance at it he writes everything down on it says he’s opening an “account” in my name but I DON’T want an accountand don’t want to be added to the marketing list. He had that white male orange supremacy attitude as if he had a right to invade my privacy because he knows better than anybody else. But he doesn’t. He’s ignorant. But these guys are easier to appease than argue with than get away from them as fast as possible. 11am stopped in at Orange library they needed my ID to update my card.
Most libraries don’t require a regular update but the Orange library does. Another Orange thing the city, not the county. This is
the library where I and one other fellow reported a baby left in a day care van crying all closed up- warm day. I eventually was required to testify about it- Not sure the outcome. We may have saved the baby’s life. But what was also disturbing is that when we initially reported it to the library some of the employees were lackadaisical about it. I had to call the police myself to get serious urgent action about it. Subsequently I started a blog website about the danger of hot cars which is still on the internet. 1pm back at NBPL - AmCam Progress: Holland, St. Joseph, Milwaukee, and Madison WI 2019. No evening mass at OLQA this week. Saturday the 23rd of April: 8am adoration, 9am NBPL AmCam progress also started new “photos only” blog for the unborn (with footage from the various rallies and pro-life events attended over the years). SaveTheUnborn.blogspot.com . Now I’m looking back at some of the movies I participated in as an extra had lost these records for a while– kind of fun to remember them. Here’s a partial list of what I participated in (no guarantee that the scene(s) was included in the movie or not). The biggest movie, and one of the 1st, was Moneyball (released Sept 2011) starring Brad Pitt about the Oakland A’s and their amazing season using Billy Bean statistical method. The scene I was in was filmed at Dodgers stadium in Sept 2010 and showed Billy Bean as a youngster still thinking he might make it as a baseball player himself. This was NOT a Brad Pitt scene but a younger version of Billy Bean. Somebody filling in for Pitt (not that I’m a fan boy of Pitt). I wore a large Mexican sombrero. I finally watched the movie in 2022 & the scene was included but not any close-ups of the extras in the crowd. Another movie I participated in was called “Alexander and the Terrible Horrible NO Good very Bad Day “(2014) starring Jennifer Garner & Steve Carrell. The scene was filmed at Altadena High School - not far from Fuller Seminary and other places I was familiar with from my seminary years in the Pasadena area. We were a crowd in an auditorium and both the stars were there not far from us. They were slightly behind where I was and they told us to NOT look back. I peeked back a few times. Wow. I still haven’t seen the movie. Have you?
Another film I participated in was a Dolly Parton Christmas movie in August 2013. This was filmed in the ball room at the Hilton Hotel in Glendale CA. We didn’t see Dolly. I just remember they did several takes of a scene with somebody walking up the aisle. When I google it I come up with a film around that time called “A Country Christmas Story” Haven’t seen it. I have been to Dolly World though– to be exact it is called DollyWood -although it was closed at the time I drove by it. IT’s near Smoky Mountains NP which I wanted to visit but it was closed at the time due to covid. Unbelievable. Don’t know when if ever I will get back there. Another film I participated in was filmed at the Inglewood Forum–and I can’t remember the name of the film something about a young guy becoming a star and we were in the audience while he was on stage. Another scene I was in was filmed at USC two different movies– one at the baseball field, the other inside the basketball arena. One of the scenes was for a Mark Wahlberg movie called ‘The Gambler” with a little googling I found out this was the basketball scene (2014). And I found out later the baseball scene was for a Johnny Depp film based on book Labyrinth eventually called ‘City of Lies” as a movie. “City of Lies is a 2018 crime thriller film about the investigations by the Los Angeles Police Department of the murders of rappers Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G.[2]
It is directed by Brad Furman, with a screenplay by Christian Contreras based on the non-fiction book Labyrinth by Randall Sullivan. The film stars Johnny Depp as retired LAPD detective Russell Poole and Forest Whitaker as journalist Jack Jackson, with Rockmond Dunbar and Neil Brown Jr. also starring.” wiki. Then there was a scene at a church in north Hollywood- we played parishioners. There was also a scene at Santa Anita horse track. Then there was a scene filmed at the auditorium at East L.A. College in June 2014- this one I remember well– it was the “Whitney Houston Story.” I remember seeing Angela Bassett there as well–the director. I was one of the few white people there. Still have a few
pictures from it (which on all sets is NOT allowed ). Then there was the movie called “Liz & Dick” about Liz Taylor and Richard Burton. The infamous Lindsay Lohan played Elizabeth Taylor and was in the scene we participated in. I remember she was a little late to arrive for the “action” moment-. We waited patiently. She laughed a lot between takes. This was a long day started in the evening and almost went all night as they did several takes and a few different scenes. I actually left before they were done. Then there was the remake of “The Saint” starring Elizabeth Dushku & Adam Rayne =- this was Roger Moore’s last film just a small part apparently. We filmed our scene around December 2012 in downtown L.A. at an open air market- an action scene where somebody was getting chased and had to jump over a counter etc. We were the crowd just mingling & shopping. Roger Moore was not there that I know of. And this film did not get released until 2017, 5 years later. Then there was the film called “Jobs” about the life of Steve Jobs - we filmed in July of 2012 – starring Ashton Kutcher as the main character (Jobs). It was a scene with a bunch of old computers they set it up at the Pasadena Convention Center - I was in the background. Haven’t seen the film yet. During a break in filming I went to the restroom and was surprised to see the star (Kutcher) in front of me at the urinal. So much for the “star treatment” he didn’t even have his own private restroom. He’s from Iowa by the way (where I was born too!).
Looking at my notes I see that I may have participated in a film called “Killing Mr. Wright” in December 2011 but I don’t remember anything about it. Then there was a film called “Bad Words” starring Jason Bateman who was also directing. It was at the American Legion facility in the heart of Hollywood not far from the Hollywood Bowl. We were the audience and they filmed a scene of a spelling bee which is what the film is all about an adult taking advantage of no age limit loophole – so he enters a spelling bee contest which is mostly children. Haven’t seen it. At one point Batemen came and stood right next to me and stared at me. Wasn’t
sure what that was all about. Then there was the St. Patrick’s Day episode of the Tonight Show with Jay Leno in March of 2011 they had us arrive dressed in green– and also provided costumes – the goal was to set a new world record for the most leprechauns in one room. So I was definitely shown in front of millions watching as a leprechaun in the crowd although it was not on the stage of the tonight show but a back room– I found at least one photo of it at https://m.facebook.com/GuinnessWorldRecords/photos/the largest gathering of people dressed as leprechauns was 224 organised by nbcs/10150119447704032/
As an aside for many years I kind of “hung around” the tonight show when Jay Leno was in his prime. I would try to go to as many shows as possible while getting oriented to the area of Burbank & Hollywood as my ministry was starting. The tickets were always free and usually easy to come by as a “standby” just meant you had to wait in line for a while– and were seated after all those with reserved tickets were seated (reserved tickets usually required some planning in advance ). Jay got to know me in the crowd meaning he recognized my face one time he gave me a nod to say hello as he came on stage. Not exactly an insider but a familiar face he trusted. I saw him around town a few times as well. One time at the Beverly Hills car show he was walking alone and I saw him and called “Jay”-- nobody else was interested in him or didn’t recognize him. He literally moved swiftly towards me to shake my hand at which point I didn’t know what to say more than hello. And then some of the show organizers whisked him away he was making an appearance for the show.
After the Tonight Show ended (the 2nd time, & final time) he kept doing his car show and may still be doing it. I heard he bought a big mansion in New Hampshire as well. Maybe he’s slowly moving back eastward. I tried to reach him with Christmas cards to let him know about Jesus Christ– not sure if it worked. Pray for him. He’s one of the more moderate decent fellows - but I hope he doesn’t have a hardened heart. He has so much money saved up but you don’t hear of him making donations or having a foundation etc. Maybe he does
it all privately, or he doesn’t. You can’t take it with you Jay. So I do NOT have “illusions of grandeur” I am not seeking to become a movie star. What I did want to do is reach others with the Good News of Jesus Christ my ministry is what it’s all about- so the more I extend my outreach the more I am able to reach others effectively, including inside the “industry” as they call it. A lot of this initially is “just showing up” and becoming a familiar face– and becoming a trusted participant. I haven’t done much lately in the Hollywood community. I also used to regularly attend the Walk of Fame ceremonies then it became too much driving from where I stayed most of the time. And then covid hit- stopping everything for 2 years or so- and NOW gas is almost $6 per gallon in Southern Calmaking it cost prohibitive to drive around to different locations FOR NO PAY. None of these extra jobs are paying jobs. That’s not to say extras never get paid but the group I was getting contacted by only used free volunteers mostly for crowd scenes. And that’s all I wanted. For a little while I was getting calls directly from the staff of movie producers who wanted me for specific parts, or was considering me. Not sure why I suddenly was on their “list” maybe somebody tipped them off.
One particular film was an Arnold Schwarzenegger film around 2000 called “The 6th Day” - a casting lady named Lizette kept calling me – for some reason highly interested in having me in a part so I said yes and I was given the time & location somewhere in North Hollywood I think- and I actually had a rental car at the time because my vehicle was in the shop. Anyways, I arrived early and parked and rested and fell asleep when I woke back up- I was a little late– but I walked up anyways– and then Lizette made a big deal about me being late I guess they decided to teach me a “newbie” lesson- and told me I was cancelled. I told them “I was here early” but didn’t get the opportunity to explain. So I left. I think she tried to call me later but I didn’t answer. That was the end of that. And the actual first time I was involved in a Hollywood show was for Doogie Howswer M.D. anybody
remember that? I got called to show up and they put a cowboy hat on my head and took my picture -but never heard from them again. I did get paid for that. And I did get paid for something in the Rocky & Bullwinkle movie I still have the check that I never cashed because it was for less than $10 dollars and I literally cannot remember what I did. It’s strange. And that’s the extent of my Hollywood career. I’ve also embedded myself at a few film events– including AFI and also the French Colcoa festival– going there every year for numerous years. All this does is give me a familiarity and some “legacy” with the Hollywood community so that I can interact and develop relationships more easily with the ultimate goal of reaching people for Christ– but not in obvious stereotypical ways that Hollywood satires so often. Anyways, at least I can say I’ve tried. And at least I can say I’ve had some experience in Hollywood given I’ve had a southern Cal address since 1984. IT shows I’ve made a good faith attempt to be part of the communitynot just turned up my nose at it. Although at times I have done that too. And of course the time at the Crystal Cathedral adds to it often there would be a Hollywood guest being interviewed. And that was Schuller’s mission too- to try to spotlight the good positive quality things in all different spheres of life including entertainment. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.
And I had professors at both Calvin College as well as Fuller Seminary who specifically taught their courses with this in mind. You might expect that at Fuller being so close to Hollywood geographically, but it was rare at Calvin nonetheless there was at least one professor who was willing to acknowledge the existence of Hollywood. And of course the infamous Paul Schrader sort of opened such a conversation about Hollywood. I actually saw him at an event at the Hammer Museum many years ago. Not many people there. When I walked in he was sitting on a bench near the entrance but I did NOT even know it was him. I literally did NOT know what Paul Schrader looked like at that time. Then he took the stage. I was disappointed that I didn’t get a chance to chat with him given we
both went to the same high school & college and grew up in the same city. That event was about Schrader donating some of his “library” to UCLA- where he attended film school. I think my dad knew his brother, Len, a little bit from University of Iowa I think he said Len was there studying English when Jim was starting as a preacher. Len also was part of the film making community but not known as much as his brother. He’s best remembered for “Kiss of the Spiderwoman” screenplay (1985) – which received some movie awards including William Hurt for Best Actor. I watched a little bit of it recently but it was too much of a lefty political agenda for me. Wasn’t expecting it. Len died in 2006 age 62.
Saturday April 23 2022 8 am adoration, 9am NBPL- there’s old baldy always at the same place- same computer is he homeless? 10am I move to the computer lab usually a nicer atmosphere. Then to CDM for a self-maintenance exercise swim & also picked some fresh kelp– love it! After swim back to Car 230pm and it won’t start! Oh no. Haven’t had car trouble in several years. Luckily I’m a member of Good Samaritan roadside club call them- they arrange a tow but want $32 because I am requesting a different location rather than the closest shop. This makes me angry and I express myself to the lady saying its 3pm Saturday afternoon by the time I get to the closest shop they won’t be able to work on it and I found a place that IS open on Sunday (Firestone) -- which is only 3.5 miles away. She didn’t budge wanting to take advantage of my difficult circumstance. I asked to speak to the supervisor and predictably after a hold the call got cut off I think this is the trick of the underlings it happens so often. If you ask to speak to their supervisor, they put you on hold for a while, then the call mysteriously clicks off.
I used to easily get thru to a supervisor to resolve matters but now it is nearly impossible. Nonetheless, a tow truck driver named Eduardo from Henry’s towing arrives – he seems decent at first –hooks it up carefully but then we start driving and he turns on his
CD player to the worst gangster rap I’ve ever heard including all the profanity (F Word, S Word,) and degrading to women (B Word) & blacks (including the N Word) . I felt intensely uncomfortable riding like this it was SO LOUD too such angry music. I actually recorded it on my phone before forcing him to turn it down he acted as if he innocently didn’t know why it bothered me. What a freakin jerk. I almost started cussing at him because of the terrible music. AND I prayed! And I ask you to pray for this Latino who is so angry driving a big ol flatbed tow truck nice AC & stereo no problems in the world but he’s angry at the world. Thankfully it wasn’t a far drive. I arrived at the Firestone with one hour to close. I figured they wouldn’t start working on it Saturday evening but they were one of the few places open on Sunday. And I know these big box places charge more but I didn’t expect it to be THAT MUCH MORE. They wanted $1100 to change a fuel pump. Good grief. So I sat in my car and thought about what to do. There was a mechanic named Dave here – and I walked over to him and asked if he did “work on the side” I’ve had luck with “mobile mechanics” a few times (as well as bad luck) and was surprised he immediately said sure. I said how much for the fuel pump and he said “If I don’t have to drop the fuel tank it’s $100, but if I do drop the tank it’s $200” (plus my cost for the pump which I could get for around $240). That’s more like it. I immediately felt a sense of relief. A decent honest fellow. So I planned on it for tomorrow. The next morning I walked over to the nearby O’Reilly Auto Parts who I had called and ordered the part for delivery at 10:30 am. I got the part, plus a new air filter, and walked back along the commercial area of 17th street Costa Mesa. Lots of restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores etc. I’ve driven thru here numerous times and occasionally would pick up groceries at the Ralphs (which I try to avoid now) but never walked the length of it.
I got back to Firestone and Dave said “Put the parts on your front seat. Do you have somewhere to wait? “I was thinking about their waiting room because Dave had assured me yesterday that it was
not a problem for the manager for him to do work on the side (which was surprising to me. I was thinking he was going to do it after hours = maybe he was allowed to use the shop tools and lift after hours) but now he said the manager was not too compatible about it. I guess Dave’s plan was to bring my vehicle in during a down time without the manager thinking much about it. So I went over to Peet’s coffee and used my gift card from a blood donation that I still had on my phone from about 3 years ago. I thought it might be expired but it worked! No expiration date. I sat and recharged my phones while sipping an iced coffee. I carry 2 phones now one is heavy but has the internet connection the other is light and has a better camera– so I use the heavy one as a hot spot to connect my better less heavy cam -phone to. And I recently subscribed to NetFlix- did so around Oscars to view a few nominees for my Christian ministry that includes reviewing films for Christians which I call #PrayTheMovies: as I’ve mentioned. I don’t necessarily endorse Netflix as a corporation– they seem to lack any real sense of Christian values but I will use it for a few months before canceling. Fortunately it’s a month-to-month agreement.
After Peets I wandered back over to Firestone just to see if Dave was making progress but he hadn’t even pulled my vehicle into the garage yet. And it looked like it was getting busy. So I walked around for a while. Bought something to drink. Sat in the shade on the grass by the curb. Walked more. Found a nearby park I didn’t know about. Sat there. Eventually walked back to Firestone- around 3pm the car still was NOT in the stall-. I didn’t want to pester Dave- I figured he’s probably going to work on it after hours. Good enough. I can’t go anywhere until it’s ready. Around 5 I returned to my car still not in the stall. I sat in the driver’s seat. They were closing the stall doors now Dave wandered over to me he apologized and said it got too busy. I started to wonder if he was just pulling my leg the whole time. Was he ever actually intending to do the job? He didn’t seem like that kind of person. Then he added “I looked it up. This just takes 4.5 hours- can’t do it tonight” blah blah.
I will never know if he was genuine or just jerking my chain. Anyways, it gave me hope for one day. The next morning I started calling shops and asking for a labor cost only. Some shops refuse to use customer-provided parts- I recommend avoiding them LIKE THE PLAGUE. You see, the same exact part that I buy at O’Reilly’s for $350 they charge $200 more for the part if it is sold directly to the big box shop like Firestone or others. Maybe they split the difference with the shop so they are both making $100 more. Not sure how that works but it’s shady and greedy. You are almost always better off buying the part yourself and getting a labor only price from a small shop who is hungry for business. And it only took 3 or 4 calls before I got a place that said they would do it for $300! Waiting around for a day or two is worth saving $500 dollars. For some it’s not worth it. For me it is. So I called for another tow. Now my service couldn’t object. They guarantee a tow no matter what. No limit on number of tows. This time a different agent had no problem with me telling her where I wanted it to go. That’s the way it should be. And I asked “Just don’t sent me Henry’s Towing again” She said she would do her best. So I waited and finally got a confirmation of a tow truck company named “The Guys in Red” or something like that. Never heard of them. Hoped for the best. And they arrived 30 minutes later. Two guys in the front seat. Both dressed in red – what a stupid gimmick for a tow company. So the driver a big obese white guy jumps out - and asks for my ID - never had that happen before he say’s “It’s just policy” one of those fellows who glibly resorts to ‘company policy” as an explanation for everything. If they were concerned that it was NOT my vehicle they were towing– seems like they should ask for the registration to match my license. But he didn’t. So just seeing my license is fairly meaningless. Are they concerned that somebody else is using my roadside service? Is that a fraud thing happening? I highly doubt it. I suspect it is mostly virtue signaling– they pretend to be the honest good guys (in red). Just like you see these big box grocery stores and movie theatres now too adding an option to give a dollar “for the
homeless or poverty” so they can pretend they are the “good guys” when they have NO PROOF or verification of the money you donate actually going to any worthy cause. Talk about a classaction waiting to happen. I hope a lawyer checks into Walmart and Regal movie among others. So anyways I say to the driver as he glances at my ID (by the way, I also object to Angel Stadium asking for a driver’s license when you pay with credit card. In fact I bought a ticket for Sunday’s game (yesterday which I missed as I was waiting for my car to be fixed) at the window at Angel Stadium I prefer to pay at the window sometimes not always and knew they would ask for my ID with my credit card even though MasterCard and visa make it improper to require ID if the card is signed– but this time the older white OC guy not only asked for my ID but also my email and then he started writing down information from my ID. This was going WAY too far . He claimed he had to “make an account” for me– say what? I come to the window because I don’t want an account. And I don’t want my email to be used for marketing etc. They’re so damn invasive these days. It feels like they are undressing you. And I later made some complaints about it). Anyways, back to the tow the red guy I said to him ‘I hope you have room for me in the truck” And he immediately said “No we don’t’. It’s just policy” There’ he goes again glibly citing “policy.” They claim it’s not safe because of the pandemic (in April 2022) -and they are not wearing masks themselves. So that set off an ugly interaction and I sent them away with a few strong words.
I went back inside my vehicle thinking I would have to call my roadside service again but just then another tow truck arrived the same guy from Henry’s on Saturday- goodness gracious. They didn’t get the cancel call from the girl at roadside- but by this point I didn’t want to wait another hour for a 3rd company to arrive didn’t really want to sit in this guy’s truck again and go thru the gangsta rap thing again– but I did want to get my car fixed today. Not tomorrow. So I clenched my teeth together and he hooked it up and LO AND BEHOLD like dejavu like a bad nightmare we
start driving and he turns on the exact same bad gangsta rap This time I ordered him to turn it down and he obeyed. We arrived at the shop on Harbor Blvd. – nothing fancy but the people inside turned out to be decent hard-working family place. They went to work on it almost immediately. 4/24/22 Sunday After Peets, bought some guac & chips at Ralphs and sat on grass to enjoy breakfast.
#PrayTheMovies: Now watching “Apocalypse Now’ for the first time. This came out in 1979. Here are my notes from watching: Apox Now: military man played by Martin Sheen young Martin Sheen (film came out in 1979 based on 60’s era Vietnam War) it's an assignment to go find a hi -up officer who has gone “insane” and he is supposed to eliminate this officer played by Marlon Brando. Martin Sheen by the way looks very much like Emilio Estevez not a coincidence because Emilio is his son (& so is Charlie Sheen) and he was there on the set as a child apparently. Also a very young Harrison Ford makes a brief appearance in this film. "Charging a person with murder in this place (Vietnam) is like giving a speeding ticket at the Indy 500." American soldiers referred to the Viet Cong as Victor Charlie or V-C. "Victor" and "Charlie" are both letters in the NATO phonetic alphabet. "Charlie" referred to communist forces in general, both Viet Cong and North Vietnamese.” They take their surfboards to the attack on the village which is pretty gruesome and merciless- mowing down anybody who moves seems like.
Heartbreaking scene: jerk boat driver insists on a routine check of Charlie boat. They only find rice, vegetables, & a puppy. But the soldiers panic & massacre the whole family because of what turned out to be a puppy. Boat gets attacked up the river. Nice black guy dies. They encounter a French family living alongside the river and enjoy dinner with them "There are two of you - one that kills and one that loves.” The bad boat driver gets killed by spear (is that Laurence Fishburne?). They find Col Kurtz in a weird cult like village with dead bodies hanging from trees. Sheen is captured &
placed in holding cell made of bamboo poles. Long speech by Brando re "its judgment that defeats us.”Sheen kills Brando. "The horror the horror" (quote from book “heart of Darkness” which I read as an English major in college (English/Psychology double major with honors). No wonder I didn’t see this film- it would have been disapproved of in our CRC community. Prayers for my mission vehicle. I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me. Now reviewing movie “The Last Dance” about Michael Jordan’s career he had an amazing career and kept his life pretty good and clean no illegalities or controversies. One time I was in North Carolina where he grew up and managed to find the address of his childhood home– and drove by it. He did not grow up in poverty. Not the “hood.” A decent middle class home with a big front yard. Still waiting for Dave to start working on my vehicle at 143 pm. #PrayTheMovies: film called “World Trade Center” specifically about a group of police who went in to one of the towers shortly after the crash/attack - and got trapped in the rubble. The two main characters including Nick Cage survive after several days. God is Great! Holy Holy. #PrayTheMovies: Movie review re “Silver Linings Notebook” - including Bradley Cooper & Robert DeNiro & Jennifer Lawrence. Cooper plays son of DeNiro just out of jail or rehab he’s estranged from his wife- she has a restraining order against him. He wants to see her but can’t or he will be arrested. He meets Jenn Lawrence– a friend of his wife– they strike up a casual relationship at first- he jogs every day - & sees her. - She’s a dancer- needs a partner. He wants her to deliver a note to his wife. She says she will if he agrees to accompany her in a dance contest. It’s in Philadelphia with the Eagles football team part of the drama. Happy ending. Had to watch it because it was an Oscars film a few years ago- trying to stay informed whether I like or agree with a film or not. Sometimes I play it in fast forward motion with lyrics captioned below while I listen to the radio in one ear. 3:15 Dave says he’s still planning on getting to my car.
Walked over to a park I didn’t know this was here. Pinkley Park. Back to the shop around 3:56. My vehicle has still NOT been moved. It’s NOT going to happen unless he is planning to work after hours. Still watching “Blood Diamond” - the black guy finds his son but the son doesn’t even recognize his dad- pushes him away. Di Caprio orders the chopper to attack - create a diversion. I’ve never seen DiCap play a gangster type of character- with guns and violence etc. 5:15pm Dave at Firestone says sorry he couldn’t get to my car. I wonder if he was ever actually planning on doing so? Or should I have offered him more money? He lives in Placentia. Too far to tow to his house to work on. We have a POTUS who literally does not have the wherewithal to even operate a hot dog stand. And yet he’s in charge of the USA. Un-bee-liev-able. Long prayer session. I will never forget the awful “Tow Guy in Red” & Mike the driver- these guys were the absolute worst. Subsequently I started a prayer blog for tow truck drivers.
And so glib. Disgusting people. Thankfully Harbor Auto Repair turned out to be much better than Firestone. Paid $360 for the labor. God led me to the right place. 11am I walked to the 99 cents store and grabbed an OJ. Out of the blue a random transient in the store called me “sir.” That felt weird. I’m just me. Not sir, nor boss, nor dude, nor man, nor buddy. Just me. People try to manipulate others around them by names they use. So I walked over to the Costa Mesa library near where the 55 freeway ends going south hadn’t been here in a LONG TIME_ -expecting the same ol library lot of homeless but NO- they have built a brand new library complex and a beautiful playground- wow. That’s a big surprise. Nice surprise. Used the computers in the library for a while to make AmCam progress: Grand Rapids & Holland including John Ball Zoo (that was fun to be back there). Also added GR Art museum to GR blog. Editing Noah’s Ark pics (Kentucky). Walked back to shop– lots of fishing pics on the wall including a gigantic lobster–that must be FAKE. It’s way too big. Talked to the guy about fishing for a little while & paid my bill with cash. They did the fuel
pump fairly quickly and without drama. Unlike last time I had a fuel pump replaced up in the Seattle area (and it wasn’t even necessary– turns out all it needed was the mass air flow sensor cleaned off). Now at the other Costa Mesa library- more AmCam progress. Then over to JBAP for 530 mass & adoration. There’s Puchner again. He used to seem normal but now seems to be getting a little strange. Him & the other midwest guy. They haven’t had enough time to really get to know southern Cal. It’s like they got dropped in on a helicopter. End of Blood Diamond- African guy gets family back together plus the money for the huge diamond he found. End notes re “Kimberly process: ”The Kimberley Process (KP) is an international, multi-stakeholder initiative created to increase transparency and oversight in the diamond industry in order to eliminate trade in conflict diamonds, or rough diamonds sold by rebel groups or their allies to fund conflict against legitimate governments.” Tuesday the 26th of April back to NBPL- all day AmCam– Stanford pics, may fete parade, SF & Daly City 2019. Also Swim at CDM & some fresh kelp. Stopped in at office late night pass by.
Wednesday the 27th of April 2022: now in Moreno Valley. Doing some research. Near UC Riverside. Thursday April 28 630 mass & 8am mass - found missing blue. Drizzle morning. Also found out DVD problem– I thought- wrong. AC not working. Now it is working. #PrayerBook adding prayer verse at the end. 10 to 2 more AmCam Oklahoma, New Mex, Texas, Blue Hole, Albuquerque, petrified forest, Flagstaff fire (July 2019), 2 to 4 another swim & fresh kelp, new air filter installed, #PrayerBook progress, listening to Jessie Kelly, Friday the 29th of April 830 mass, OCD not there. 9 to 10 birthday cards to the Peters Sisters random yug by my car 10 am NBPL supremacist arrived at noon. AmCam including Green Band add 2nd blog for Green Band pics. More Stanford, Air Dogs gif, America’s Cup gif, Green Band gif, movie post snippets, bad cop Santa Monica (Officer Wise), 2 to 330 swim decent waves, yug from Colo asked about fishing. Water still cold-
felt more cold maybe the “upwelling?” Maps evangelism from 4 to 7. #PrayTheMovies: re the “Adam Project” - a little entertaining, sort of. Saturday April 30 2022: 830 OLQA- OCD arrived late as usual 840 always. 9 to 10 #PrayerBook. 10 to 2 NBPL. 2 to 4 CDM, And then all the way to Upland. Sunday May 1: 7 am blood donation, 9 am church #1 St. Joseph- some white guy standing “guard” nearby made me feel uncomfortable. Left early. 11:15 St. George was better. 12 noon walk at Civic Center Ontario. 1 to 2 using computer they only allow one hour per day now. No extensions of time. Covid paranoia. Took scenic back road to PV/RB- by the way- on the way here last time thru the Moreno Valley I went down a road where wild mules roam– that was interesting without fences- lots of signs warning of the mules - or maybe not wild but just not contained by fences. Saw a few not moving much.
Monday 5/2/22 8am mass & rosary at James, 10 to 2 starting work on AmCam with new old flash photos start to deteriorate after a while on flash drives. Some on this one from 2016 are starting to go bad. But they say it’s not about the length of time but about the amount of “writes & re-writes: eHow says flash drives can last up to ten years, but as mentioned on NYTimes.com, flash memory doesn't usually degrade because of its age, but rather because of the number of write cycles, which means the more you delete and write new information, the more quickly the memory in the device will start to degrade.” 330 to 5 took swim & walk RB- almost 4 miles. Tuesday May 3 - almost exact repeat of Monday. Wednesday May 4 repeat. Happy birthday to the 3 peters sisters sending cards. All sent. Am Cam progress: big balloon parade, Miramar, la Jolla, Ontario vs valley, orange Xmas tree (mean people) , bellflower car show good pics, cubs win world series , Hollywood Xmas parade (terrible pics) , valley C wins Championship ( I was there). Jim in hospital. Belmont & Downey Xmas Parade, Long Beach Veterans parade, Los Alamitos car & air show. Bobcat Santa Cruz. Archives: Hawaii, Netherlands, CPE, More Yuma, Detroit movie (1st time using M
pass). Cleveland All Stars, Interlochen, missiology, Cal Tech BB, May 19 Palo parade , Stanford, America’s Cup bay area, Noah’s Ark more, GR Holland, Chicago, Milwaukee Dells, Walk of Life SF, Redwood Falls MN, Edgerton & Hills, Yellowstone, Jackson hole, bear tooth highway to Billings, Top of the world, Corn Palace, Wall Drug, Badlands, Racine, Devils Tower, Dead Leadwood, Tahoe, Solitude, Soda Springs, Raptor Center Sacramento, Vacaville Parade, Carson City, Winnemucca, snow cabins near Tahoe Traverse City , Detroit Zoo, more Cleveland, Parthenon Nashville, Memphis , little rock central high, Clovis CA, lick observatory, phoenix, Fresno, silver falls (lost pics), Centralia, cascade loop, Lynden, bend Oregon, cliffs auto, city of concrete, ladder falls, north cascades, Mt. hood, Almere falls, Pt Reyes lighthouse, Ft. Bragg jug handle , heart & castle lake, Mt. Shasta, McCloud, Lava tubes, Stinson, Muir, glory hole, frog town, Mark twain Angel Camp, Yosemite, Sequoia, 1 day king , San Jacinto Peak, Tahoe - aloha glen alpine trail fallen leaf lake, cathedral peak (oops- took wrong trail). Next day aloha trail- wow. Reno - hunter creek trail, rim to Reno, Mt. rose, saw bear & cub. June 18: more Mt. rainier, cinder cone Lassen, Bellingham, Tacoma, Stanford Vetter Way farming movie (actually “Dreaming of a Vetter World”). Traverse City Arcadia dune (about as high if not higher as the better known Sleeping Bear dune.) Thursday May 5 2022: repeat of yesterday more or less. Malaga AmCam swim walk repeat. Also went to FCU minus 500 Octo, plus 500 SoCal, added Roses Photos only blog. Also Local Color #2 photos only. “ColorfulAmerica.blogspot.com” (assoc with 3geep) Rose Parade photos assoc with TNR. Other new blogs including “ColorfulBible.blogspot.com” (assoc with Sky High), BlueAngelsAndMore.blogspot.com assoc with Sky High), RememberTowTruckDrivers.blogspot.com (assoc with AmPrayer), SaveTheUnbornBabies.blogspot.com (photos only, assoc with AmPrayer), AmericanMuseumsAndArt.blogspot.com (AmPrayer), AllGodsCreaturesGreatAndSmall.blogspot.com (AmPrayer), 6PeakChallenge.blogspot.com (AmPrayer), Storyboards 4theKingdomSnapshots.blogspot.com (Accept Christ), &
Friday 5/6/22 Azusa Library. I get so tired of the immigrants who blow the leaves. Too many of them are careless. And yet all the different places hire them – and they are cocky and often simply not very nice or good persons. In some cases they are even belligerent & try to act macho. They swing those blower tubes around like they think they are Rambo or something. Leaving Azusa library drove past Azusa University and also called American Tire Depot for oil change price – got a $32 price. St. James mass rosary. On impulse drove to upland and donated blood made it for the 3pm appointment but they were way behind time too many people. But then at upland library I randomly discovered the LA Fair IS BACK in business- now in May to beat the heat. Used to go to it every year–often purchasing a pass for the entire time- about $25. But then I started going less and then with covid it was cancelled for 2 years. The best thing about the LA Fair is the free concerts usually some good old groups from the 70’s & 80 that I remember this year I noticed they have KC & the Sunshine Band among others. Got a ticket for $10 bucks- resident discount day.
5/7/22 Saturday 8am mass Claremont OLA - lady behind me annunciating in loud English (what I call “hard English” sometimes) that happens to me every now and then when certain types of people see me they seem to have a need to prove they speak English loud & clear- it’s just very distracting in church. Same way Linda mom would occasionally speak in a SHRILL voice AT me rather than talk to me as a fellow human. I think her friends told her she needed to do this to assert command. Unfortunately, her friends were wrong. And all it did was cause hard feelings and alienate me from her. Sad. Mom can be mean sometimes. Try to get over it. Bought gas for $5.30 - made sure I asserted the “boss” word immediately upon entry caught the dude by surprise before he
could do it to me. The boss word is so prevalent around So Cal by workers it’s like they're going around calling women the B word boss is the male equivalent– so you got to beat them to the punch. And they don’t know how to react. 11 am arriving at L.A. Fair pedestrian gate locked. Walked the long way around. Guy at gate ‘I need you to go this way”- another jerk- just ask. Don’t talk to me like I need “clear instructions.” I’m 55 years old BA/BA/M.Div. Talk to me like a reasonable fellow citizen you A- hole. I told him they usually unlock the pedestrian gate - have done so for the last 20 years (minus the last 2 years that it was cancelled). He didn’t know anything about it. I walk onward. Try to forget about the jerks who work at the fair. Cool gaming hall. No Circus or acrobats this year. Very few animals. They’ve really scaled it back. Good lumberjack show (from St. Cloud FL). Good colorful display at the usual place. Walked around until 2pm then picked up concert ticket. Also the Village People on the ticket. Wasn’t expecting that. I remember a few of their songs like YMCA of course & Macho Man. They got pigeon-holed as a “gay band” but they may not actually be gay at all. The lead singer is the only remaining original member he’s the one who wears the cop uniform- he’s from San Fran. He was married to the lady from the Cosby show (the mom) for a while. They actually are a somewhat entertaining act. Enjoyed it. Then came KC! I never knew much about them only remember their popular songs. I actually thought they were a black band, but the lead singer is very white. And heavy now- ie overweight. He even joked about it saying if he doesn’t start losing some weight they will be calling them “KFC & the Sunshine Band.” Good joke. He still was able to perform and move around and they put on a good show. Also saw a little bit of the kids spelling bee earlier in the day. That was neat to see.
Sunday May 8 2022 morning. Donated blood at 7am. Then made it back to Irvine– pulling in for the 1030 mass at St. John Neumann. From there back to NBPL more Am Cam progress. Monday May 9 2022. 8am OLQA identified OCD’s car! victory a blueish Mercedes
with peeling paint, & a sticker that says “I hope you have a wonderful day” 10 to 2 amCam progress NBPL, swim at CDM not too cold 2 to 330, back to NBPL more AmCam 4 to 630 working on pics from San Diego Petco Park padres game, also Yuma to Petroglyphs AZ, & rattlesnake road. Tuesday May 10 2022: 8am mass OCD not there today but chef in white with candles on top of car was there. Made prayer review for him. 9am cleaning car at selfserve place– thought I could do it without being bothered by anybody. First I had to remove a bunch of things out of the back of my vehicle. This took a while. I found a spot in the very back lots of rubbish around like they never clear this place behind that is an open field– as I am doing this first a Latino fellow with a backpack suddenly walks back behind me and is looking out over the fence not sure what he’s doing. He doesn’t seem like a bad guy. I continue my work uninterrupted so far. Then I hear somebody yelling. I can’t really hear what they are saying or who is saying it. I assume it’s from the guy with the backpack. I have my phone radio playing so I can’t hear too well. (And there’s a dog kennel on the other side so that’s making a lot of noise as well). I ignore it at first. The yell continues so I look and the guy with the backpack points at somebody who was yelling from the other side of the fence. It’s another Latino this guy without a shirt on- he’s asking if I have a cigarette. I yell back NO- and try to go back to my work. So he gets angry at me and says “I’m just asking …” blah blah blah. I say “Dude, can’t you see I’m busy and there’s too much noise.” He’s come over the fence by this point maybe he thinks I would be a scared white boy but I’m not scared I’m just annoyed. He walks past me not sure what he’s doing where he’s going don’t care it looks like he’s living back there– I notice an old couch. There’s some mice or rats here too. What a life. Prayers for him. I am ready to vacuum but now I realize the vacuum doesn’t work. I have to move my car to a new spot and leave all the belongings sitting on the pavement. Oh well. I manage to vacuum the 1st half- and intend to do the rest later.
Meanwhile the backpack guy started chatting I took the opportunity to do a little evangelism he just had his car repossessed– not sure what he was planning to do. He asked if I need a “co-pilot.” Sorry fella. I barely have enough room for myself and if I ever take a driving partner it will be a female. I told him about the girl from Hungary in Oregon who asked me for a ride once she was with two other fellows –one from New Zeeland, the other from L.A. I couldn’t figure out what the situation was– they all had those little fold-up bikes and were walking the bikes on the trail when I passed them. And as I got in my car at the parking lot she suddenly arrived and opened up my passenger door and asked if I could drive her to the next town. She had run ahead of the 2 guys she was with. I said “Aren’t you with them?” She didn’t explain things very well like if she was in danger or what-. Suddenly the other 2 arrived. And they started trying to talk her out of it. It didn’t seem like they were a threat to her but that she had become disenchanted with their journey. They didn’t have backpacks or anything. Were they staying at hotels? And those fold up bikes are not exactly made for long distance. But they never went into details. Suddenly she said ‘I guess I will stay with them.” I just accepted it and said ok. In retrospect I wish I had taken her aside and whispered to her “What’s really going on?”
Anyways, at least I DID call the police as I was driving away. Hopefully they were able to spot the three and do an assessment. After the vacuum I went to City of Orange library hadn’t been here in 2 years updated my library card. After library had lunch 3 to 4. At 4pm found a spot to park across from Angel Stadium bought a ticket a week ago knowing this was Shohei Ohtani MVP bobblehead night. I haven’t been to an Angel game in probably 3 years. And they’ve made some improvements one of them is a new metal detector where you don’t have to stop and empty everything like it used to be– the new machine somehow knows whether there’s anything significant or not on the person. I didn’t see them stop anybody. I wasn’t actually too excited to be at the game. I thought I
might stay a few innings and then leave. But around the 3rd inning I noticed the Angels pitcher had not given up any hits yet. I wasn’t exactly hopeful at that point– figured the Rays would get a hit pretty quick-. But decided to wait until they did. And I waited, and waited. …and waited. Now it’s the 8th inning and still NO HITS now it’s getting REAL: a possible no-hitter in the works. He did give up one walk. And another batter got on base on an error. But lo and behold-he made it thru the 9th and that was it – HE DID IT–Reid Detmers pitched the FIRST NO-HITTER OF 2022 & I was there. My first no-hitter too ! The last solo no- hitter by an Angel was Jered Weaver in 2012. Plus it was a good game offensively for the Angels– lots of hits & homers– final score 12-0. So that was something positive. I’ve been to so many mediocre Angels games over the years. Tried to be supportive. This year they seem to have a lot more spark. We’ll see if it lasts. It’s ONLY May. And they also had the MVP award ceremony for Ohtani.
Wed May 11 2022 7am dental appointment. Student dental hygienist Maria Hernandez did my teeth. She was pretty nice. Laughed a lot. Told me she had an identical twin. This is a pretty good place west coast university walking distance to Disneyland along the 5 freeway. I mentioned a little of my family history here and mentioned the Crystal Cathedral- which you can actually see from the window– but she had NO IDEA what it is. Isn’t that something? For some people they do not have a curiosity or interest whatsoever in landmarks etc. They are very focused on their own lives more so I guess at a young age. She had heard of Valley Christian High school. After dental I exercised at Garden Grove Civic Center I’ve been re-watching Forrest Gump – I don’t know if I ever saw the whole thing. He’s learning how to play ping pong. And the 100’s of letters he sent to Jenny never got thru to her. Returned undelivered. Carl Jackson says Biden is intentionally causing Americans pain. Now watching “Dick Johnson is Dead” about an elderly gentleman’s experience with dementia. Now watching Mirai– animated Asian film a family has a newborn child named Mirai and the older child
Kun is jealous at first. He wanders off either actually or in a dream on a bullet train gets lost. Went to St. Columban Vietnamese mass at 530– most of the time the Vietnamese are pretty graciousbut this time one guy kept staring at me as if he was making it clear that he was wondering what is this white guy doing here? He should know better. There are a lot of white Americans here usually at the English mass– but it’s not as if he’s never seen a white American before- But he was trying to make me uncomfortable. Not very nice. Left early.
Thursday, May 12 7am returned to dental university to finish the cleaning. After dental I made it to Chino Hills Library– also picked up a free chicken sandwich from Chik Fil-A a reward for the Angels scoring a certain amount of runs nice. Thanks. Then I worked on ministry materials. Concerned about the rattling in my engine. Don’t want to go to a mechanic but am thinking I must. Now at Claremont Library. Strange bl guy. Also refilled water. #PrayTheMovies: Started new movie reviews: film called “42” about the life of Jackie Robinson including Harrison Ford. New type of role for Ford. Also starting “John Q” with Denzel W - working class man & wife have son who needs a new heart but their insurance won’t cover it so he takes matters into his own hands. And “My Best Friend Anne Frank” - based on true story of her experience with same age friend named Hannah (who apparently survived the concentration camps and is still alive today in 2022. Amazing. ) This adds a little more context to the Anne Frank story. It did NOT focus on her time hiding in the house with her family. But a series of flash forwards and flash backs from life as a young girl with a crush on a boy to suddenly being in the concentration camps. Sad. I actually did the tour of the Anne Frank House when I was in Amsterdam many years ago. Also starting a review of “Gaga, 5 Foot 2” about her day to day life Malibu home visiting parents & grandparents. Etc. watched half but that was enough for me. I met her once at the Jay Leno show– she was walking around signing autographs. She called me “Sir.” Also starting “Breaking
Bad” I’ve heard about this but until now hadn’t seen it. It’s about a teacher who is so cash-strapped he decides to get into the drug business– making meth- with a former dropout student.
I saw Bryan Cranston once at a Hollywood walk -of-fame ceremony. I think it was for somebody else- but he was a guest speaker. Used to go to those events regularly for ministry purposes. Cranston also runs a car wash on the side. Back to 42 Movie. Jackie gets ordered off the field by Sanford Police chief. I actually remember hiking near Sanford FL - a popular trail called “Black Bear Wilderness Trail.” It wasn’t until 2020 that they removed the name of the police chief from the stadium – probably because of the movie. Pretty sad the way they mistreated Jackie Robinson back in the day. Also started watching “Looper’ with Bruce Willis he’s being chased thru a cornfield. Not sure what the plot is.
Friday May 13 2022: donated blood again. Also went to a shop for an oil change. Richard said I needed a tire repair too. But it was too close to the edge for them to plug. Nonsense. But I take it somewhere else. Should have done it myself- instead paid $20 for some other place to do it. I carry tire plug material but I was too tired to do it today. The 1st shop says I need a new alternator & serpentine belt. I wasn’t sure if they were right or not- Richard showed me the rattling alternator– had me feel it– but it may have been because the nearby AC tensioner was rattling causing the alternator to seem like it was rattling. But my car has 163 k miles on it so it is due for a new alternator & belt. So I decide to go ahead with it even though possibly the alternator could last longer maybe a lot longer. Maybe not. So they want $230 for the labor. Much more if I let them buy the parts. You can save money on auto repairs if you buy your own parts significantly so. But some greedy shops don’t allow “customer provided parts.” This one does. The guy at the desk calls himself “Josh” but he’s Latino– probably his American name. Don’t know many Latinos named Josh. Back to NBPL -a heat wave is coming for 3 days. Making progress on AmCam. Also a swim saw
an interesting large brown fish -that kind of matched the color of the kelp. Also a giant starfish.
Saturday May 14 2022 845 am prayer chapel OLQA. OCD showed up at 840. Chef not there. 9am more scanning starting the new #PrayerBook so satisfying to complete this. A year-long project. 10 to 230 - more AmCam mostly local pics. Gold Globes 2016. Xmas cards. Biola BB. Valley C championship. Yuma firewall. 3 to 4 another swim. A swim a day keeps the doctor away. This time I saw a cool Spider Crab (aka Sheep crab)-- never seen that before had to google it later to figure out what it was huge dome with long legs– kind of like a gigantic “daddy long leg “spider. It didn’t move at first. I thought it might be dead just a skeleton, but I finally made enough commotion to scare it away. Apparently these are pretty good for eating too. Not endangered. 4 to 6 back at NBPL. AmCam & PB scan progress – but all my scanning efforts were lost due to it taking TOO LONG to save. I was scanning in PDF Searchable mode and started saving at 530 but apparently this mode takes a LOT LONGER for it to save by 6pm it still was NOT saved & the library staff wanted to go home so I had to abort the process. Didn’t lose any material but will have to do it ALL OVER AGAIN. I won’t do it in PDF searchable mode again ----------------------------
Now at movie “A Matter of Life” https://www.thematteroflife.org/ -made a point of coming to see this its’ a pro-Life film . a few notes while watching: *Life Training Institute https://prolifetraining.com/ “If you’re opposed to killing the unborn they expect you to solve every other problem in society” or else you’re a hypocrite.
*Alan Schlemon “Stand to Reason”https://www.str.org/alan-shlemon
*At least 25 in audience at AMC Rolling Hills that’s a good sign. *Teresa Bukovinac pro-life San Francisco https://www.prolifesf.com/about “Abortion is NOT pro-peace”
*special Life event August 28 2022 see https://www.standingwithhersunday.org/ https://optionline.org/ *Annie Tang Humphrey is COO for https://savethestorks.com/ .
*Stephanie Gray Connors https://loveunleasheslife.com/about “Do those of us who are older have the right to kill those who are younger?”
*Monica Snyder from secular pro-life group of same name https://www.walkforlifewc.com/monica-snyder-of-spl-on-the-comfortable-pro-choice-person/
*Cather Glenn Foster Americans United for Life https://aul.org/author/catherineglennfoster/
*Elizabeth Stanton Feminists for Life https://www.feministsforlife.org/herstory/ “Treating women as property is just as wrong as treating unborn as property.” Hurts the feminists own cause. Just one question: “Is the unborn a human being?”
*Thomas Glessner NIFLA https://nifla.org/about-nifla/.
*Bernard Nathinson abortion doctor NY converted to pro-Life (see movie “Silent Scream”).
* NARAL is evil starting with Betty Friedan. Sara Weddington was the lawyer who argued FOR Roe v Wade to make abortion legal in 1971. She died in 2021 in Austin TX. Her partner in crime was attorney Linda Coffee (still alive) /.
*re Doe v Bolton also see https://studentsforlife.org/med law the legalities of doe v bolton/.
*Norman McCovey (aka Jane Roe) she never had an abortion.
*Christine Bennet is a proLife prayer missionary, see https://www.christinabennett.com/ .
*Patricia Sandoval regretted her abortion & became a proLife advocate, see https://www.clmagazine.org/topic/pro life champions/patricia sandoval her long path to gods mercy/
* 14th amendment re privacy “health defined so broadly by SCOTUS you could drive a mack truck thru it.”
* 2021 Dobbs vs Jackson could overturn Roe (that’s what we’re hoping!) see https://www.studentsforlifeaction.org/dobbs/
*Planned Parenthood had an unwritten policy that they “never let the woman see the ultra sound” Mary Sanger was the founder of PP and was a big advocate of population control & eugenics and controlled breeding. She even had an influence on the Nazis. Sanger said “the biggest sin is bringing children into the world with no hope” American Birth Control league became Planned Parenthood. Dr Guttmacher was the president not good person. They do NO
pre-natal care. Today there’s an abortion every 97 seconds. The Guttmacher Institute today is the research arm of planned parenthood. PP is NOT allowed to teach or encourage abstinence. “PP are afraid of parents”
* Roland Care Warren net https://www.care-net.org/roland-warren
* Brian Fisher Human Coalition https://www.humancoalition.org/speaker/brianfisher/ “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10.10
* Abundant Life https://www.abundantlifewa.org/
* EmbraceGrace.org founded by Amy Ford https://embracegrace.com/ourstory
* Save the Storks new CEO Diane Ferraro https://savethestorks.com/2021/01/save-the-storks-announces-diane-p-ferraro-as-new-chiefexecutive-officer/
Crystal Willis was raped at school chose open adoption rather than abortion https://www.facebook.com/liveactionnewsonline/posts/crystal-willis-was-raped-at-age14 by an older student in her high school becaus/10156037436316601/
* Emmet Till Jr body was so beaten up– the mother wanted an open casket to show how horrible the killers were- they say this is why graphic photos of aborted babies also have emotional impact.
* Somebody named Dr Levatino converted to the life cause https://thelifeinstitute.net/learning centre/abortion facts/providers/former abortionists/dr anthony levatino?
*LiveAction by Lisa Rose https://www.liveaction.org/media/meet lila rose/
*Film maker Tracy Robinson re Matter of Life https://radio.foxnews.com/2022/05/15/the matter of life filmmaker tracy robinson shares why award winning pro life documentary was banned from facebook/
* Faith Elwonger is a member of Students for Life staff https://twitter.com/elwonger_sfla
Sunday May 15 2022 OLQA prayer NBPL 12 TO 4, MIWS 430 to 530. No lifeguards. Monday May 16 donated blood 615 am. Right arm, Jake the snow boarder. They wouldn’t let me use my left arm because I scratched it while snorkeling yesterday. 9am bought new alternator & serpentine belt- had it replaced at American Tire Depot (josh the Latino, Richard the mechanic). Back to NBPL
Completed #PrayerBook
&
sports: Pujols pitched the 9th inning for the Cardinals- his first time ever pitching. Tuesday 5/17/22 at OLQA the Vietnamese priest will only allow silent prayer. The Anglo priest allows verbal. Seal Beach Library at 10 am resumed dictation first time here in a while. Same old crowd including the bl guy in his old car always wears a worn out suit. Made it to PV- peninsula library at 1pm– went upstairs– didn’t see many of the regulars– thankfully. Only the 1 scruffy guy from Ralphs.
Wednesday May 18 2022 8am Malaga Library 10 to 330 Am Cam progress. Swim from 4 to 5. Walk 4 miles 5 to 630. Thursday May 19 almost exact repeat of yesterday. Friday May 20: stopped in at office cleaned it up. Vacuumed. Didn’t find flash drives yet. But picked up some other materials a lot of dvd’s to work on. And more snippets etc. And all the way to Upland 2am re-booked appt along the way. Denise did my vitals. She lived in Wenatchee for a while. I mentioned Leavenworth & Spokane. I was there just last year. Chris started out working in Colton. This is my 7th donation supposed to be 200 but they forgot only gave 100. Saturday 5/21/22 back in NB OLQA scan project 9 to 230. Lots of old bulls from 2008. No sun yet heading towards “June gloom?” Gray sky. $900 cap1 scheduled. No swim today too gray. Called Integon owe $263 to complete yearly auto insurance premium. They sent another covid rebate check too- $30 refund. Sunday 5/22/22 Prayer chapel again at OLQA around 10am. Then noon to 4 at NBPL, scan project. 4 to 5 snorkel swim at CDM guy asked me how it is out there. I told him I saw a dead shark a small one - but not much else– visibility not so good today. Maps evangelism 530 to 7. 2am impulse go back to blood donation. Monday May 23 spoke with Natalie about adjusting payment amount. She said call back tomorrow if she forgets. And she did “forget.” So I waited 2 days to call- spoke with Macy who said she would take care of it. Finally got the right totals. After blood went to Walmart next door. The selfcheckout lady remembers me and is trying to control me asked
me to “step back a little” as I waited for a self-checkout to open. She’s the one who argued with me about the price of a bag of chips I said the sign near it was misleading– not very clear which one it was pointing too. And she argued rather than apologizing- she said “not even close.” That was pretty darn cocky of her as an employee to a customer. Normally in such cases they should just apologize not become argumentative. After that I stopped at Chino Hills library–uploaded the bulls that I scanned at NB. From there back to NBPLcontinue S.P. (scan project). At 3 took another snorkel swim. 3 gals came swimming as I returned. One said, “Did you see anything cool?” It’s nice to see young people who know how to swim with a little guts to go in without a wetsuit– it’s almost June for goodness sake. Some of these local Californians are so wimpy. Most will never go in without a wetsuit. And the ethnics who come from all over don’t know how to swim I don’t think most ever have swimming lessons. So they just splash near the shore.
Tuesday 5/24/21. Paid off insurance premium - they’ve increased the service fees for paying online. Next year I will just send one money order to save a few bucks. Back to the S.P. here’s the “Barb letter” from 1989 that was strange she was all the way down in Costa Rica and sends me this letter after having suddenly disappeared from my life overnight. And she was in contact with Audrey & Eric & was having them spy on me – that explains them coming to my house at 8am that one day. That was so bizarre and juvenile & uncalled for. So Barb was down there in Costa Rica living with Janet Ludema * & lo & behold I would end up down there myself a year or so later & see Barb only once but it was as if she didn’t even recognize me. I think she was a multiple personality. I think she ended up marrying a Costa Rican and living with him back in Kalispell Montana. Very strange. There was an insecurity in her which I didn’t see until the very last moment. This insecurity made her interpret things wrongly. Also scanned the Luisa letter– she’s in the Philippines. Prayers 4 her. And several other letters. Then over to Fed Ex Office finally printed some new
Christ cards with new QR code.. As I sat in my car a guy pulled up next to me -but apparently embarrassed of driving an old car noticed I was in my vehicle so he pulled back out looking for a different spot. Don’t be ashamed dude even in Newport Beach you can drive an old car and not hang your head. It’s ok. The OLQA Vietnamese priest always does a “deer in the headlight” look every time he sees me. It’s weird.
#PrayTheNews: Shooting in Uvalde many students killed - plus a few teachers final count maybe 21 or 22? Sad. Horrific. Prayers4 that community in Texas. Wednesday May 25 back at OLQA there’s the staring priest again. I don’t even know why they insist on having Vietnamese priests at OLQA when this is a mostly white community. It’s NOT like the Neumann Catholic in Irvine which has a significant Vietnamese community. Likewise St. Bonaventure in HB– they insist on having a Vietnamese priest even though it’s also mostly white parishioners. And these Vietnamese priests become cocky. It’s weird. Not edifying. Not helpful. Found the old audio Bible clips starting new audio Bible blog https://newaudiobible.blogspot.com/. It will take a while to put it all back together. I had such a beautiful website hosted by posterous many years ago with all the audio uploaded as well as written material accompanying it and posterous CEO personally vowed they would be around a “long time.” A few months later they were bought out by one of the #BigTech which then shut it down.
Thursday May 26 “May Gray” again. No sun this morning. #PrayerBook 630 to 730 Cut N Paste prayers 9 to 11. Top Gun II is finally released just in time for Memorial Day– how many years later is this? 36. The original Top Gun came out in 1986- my freshman year of college. Wow. Another snorkel swim from 3 to 4 despite no sun. Good well. Caught a few waves. No life givers today. Continue progress on New Audio Bible. Also checking other old DVD’s for material. Friday May 27 2022 830am instead of OLQA which I am phasing out because of stare priest I did street
evangelism around CMD HS students park there so I am able to leave an invitation “seed” for them. Pray for good soil. Despite it being a wealthy nice community these kids have pressures of a different kind mostly high expectations. Got to get into a good college of course. After swim a guy asked about snorkeling. I told him about the spider crab and big starfish I saw when the water was calm & I could get in close to the reef/rock. It’s NOT florida or hawaii– no bright tropical fish really. Lots of orange garibaldi. A few unique creatures every now & then. Every day is different. Afternoon I made it to Upland just in time to purchase a new AC tensioner for $50 which is supposed to stop the rattling sound that they had initially claimed was a bad alternator. But the new alternator didn’t stop the rattling.
Then I pulled in to dollar tree for some zip cords to re-fasten the front grill which had come loose. As I was leaving 2 bl teens came by– made me feel uncomfortable the gestures they made. They know how to do that so precisely. Its eerie & creepy they always need to catch your eye and look you in the eye sometimes as they walk across the street as well- the pedestrian crossing. I tweeted something about that & apparently I am not the only one resonated with many people. (Remember desert vs dessert & the girl at Coachella?) My own sister uses this as an M.O. at times as well. Saturday May 28 donated blood again at 630am. Then back to Am Tire Depot in Pomona there was Josh again and Richard and the intimidator who doesn’t know how to do too much apparently. He just changes tires. Kind of a jerk. This time Richard did the work -. He admitted that they were wrong about the alternator. I didn’t make a huge deal about it because I figured if it was the original alternator then it might be due for a new onerather than wait for it to fail when I’m on the road. But still. On the other hand sometimes alternators can last much longer than you might expect. Nobody encourages proactive replacement of an alternator. You usually just wait for it to die– then get towed & get a new one. Anyways I liked Richard’s honesty whereas Josh was still
being evasive. Finally after they did the work, Josh didn’t charge for the labor so there was that. That was a nice small gesture at least. I’m coming down with something– a cold or flu– I can feel it. It’s gonna get worse for a few days. Lived long enough to know it. Made it back to CDM for a swim at 2, then did maps evangelism from 4 to 6. The cold water swim is good for colds at least it makes me feel better, not worse. Maybe the opposite of what people would expect. But take a look at cold water swimming– and health benefits. You might be surprised. Bought some hot dogs for Memorial Day weekend cooked up a few after the swim. Also salad, lots of OJ, chocolate oat milk (not so great) & applesauce.
Monday Memorial Day 2022: we remember the fallen soldiers who died in action. That’s what Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is supposed to specifically be about. Also prayers for Prisoners of War - if any are still alive. And Tomb of the unknown soldiers. 8 to 10 doing 2008 receipts (audio). 10 to 12 swim snorkel CDM went the other way this time saw another big starfish firmly attached to the rock. Also maybe a sleeping shark. Last time I saw a dead shark rolling on the bottom (small one, maybe a sand shark) with the waves. This time the shark looked in good condition sort of under a rock but SO DEEP I couldn’t get too close to examine it or touch it this was also small enough not to be dangerous. Later I looked up “sleeping sharks” and apparently some do sleep on the bottom. Notice from YouTube re a video I posted on CBF channel from the January 5 2021 event in Wash DCan organized rally the night before Jan 6 Trump event at which Mike Lindell (My Pillow) spoke, among many others. YouTube said it was a “misleading” video– and therefore they were removing it. I figured some LEFTY just cruises YouTube looking for videos to False Flag and YouTube rubber stamps them. You CAN appeal at which point a human is supposed to personally examine it. But so far the appeal button is not working.
Tuesday May 31 - started day with CDM evangelism- also brief hike by OLQA trail. Back at NBPL finishing this log book. Start new one. Sunny day blue sky. No May Gray today. Go for an exercise swim. Dvd progress NBPL audio Bible progress. #PrayTheMovies: TopGun 2 - 36 years later. Lady gaga. Hans Zimmer. Joe Kosinksi Burckheimer Mojave desert. Gets a motorcycle. Tom cruise in hangar by himself doing mechanical work. Greasy arm Ordered to stand down. Mach 10 & more. “Threshhold is 10” 7800mph = Mach 10, “Caution screen” BLANK OUT. What happened? Crash landing eject. Is that the same boss as first movie? “You’ve been called back to Top Gun” escort off to North Island. One scene from the building I walked thru at liberty station. Same building as original. “Iceman requested you” (that’s Val Kilmer). We want you to teach, not to fly. Credit card declined. They throw him out. Rooster plays piano.
Rooster is the son of goose who died in the 1st film. So rooster has a grudge against maverick because maverick pulled rooster back from advancement at one point thinking rooster wasn’t ready. Football on beach. Iceman is dying of throat cancer (he had throat cancer in real life but I think he’s okay now). Miracle #1 & #2 will come down to pilots & machs. Coyote blacks out. Bird strike. Ice man dies. Funeral. Rooster says “my dad believed in ….” maverick is terminated as teacher. Maverick steals a plane and proves it is possible to do what they planned to do. So now he’s the new team leader. He can still fly. The mission begins. Maverick saves rooster’s life a suicide save. Maverick survives by ejecting but would have died if rooster didn’t come back against orders to save maverick. He finds him in the forest– Maverick yells “What were you thinking? Rooster responds “You told me not to think.” Together they sneak into a hangar and steal an old plane. Versus 5th generation fighters. They survive. End of movie 6/1/22 Wednesday 1st day of June 8am St. James (mike) mass & rosary. 9am glue sticks. 10am Malaga : audio bible, scribd. Am Cam, 5 to 6 swim Redondo & walk.
6/2/22 Thursday James mass rosary mostly a repeat of Wednesday. Mass shooting in Tulsa 4 killed + shooter. 6/3/22 Friday-. New confirmations at St. James –big crowd at St. James the arch bishop Jose from L.A. showed up. Nice hi from gal at door, new library hours forgot Malaga & peninsula are closed open at 2pm- strange hours. Go to laundromat 10 to noon. Swim #1 noon, maps evangelism cut paste 1 to 4, Swim #2 4 to 530. More maps evangelism, #PrayerBook. Walked & prayed to 730pm, 6/4/22 Saturday June gloom. 8am James mass rosary #PrayerBook 10am Malaga most of the day 6/5/22 Sunday 9am St. Lawrence martyr prima donna priest. 10am neighborhood lady preacher where’s young? This lady more relaxed–easy to listen. No 100–yard stare. 11am Malaga clean out both chairs gone now. 1 to 430 PV main library scribd & am Cam computer. 3 minute warning almost disaster quick thinking saved most they still do that here even after the update. R.A.S. “when you’re down to nothing God’s up to something” Had epiphany about how people maybe even loved ones sometimes set me up to fail by suggesting I’m trying to gain power or control. No I’m trying to gain autonomy with integrity without being in an abusive relationship. They won’t even let me have that? From a simple delivery job at PRCH to a simple corner classroom at CVHS. To a mere sub at LAUSD and then there was Henry Baron. Paul Fields. Timmerman? Diekema? None of that is tolerable! Why do they want to sink my ship?
#PrayTheNews: massacre at church in Nigeria kills 50. 2) Also stampede at free food event in Nigeria killed dozens.. Yesterday sun was shining at end of day. Monday 6/6/22 sunny blue morning. 8am mass rosary (mike) custodian sweeps during rosary– annoying. Like the leaf blowers. Arrogant. Belligerent. AmCam Yuma painted rocks petroglyph. San Diego etc. New A.B. chapters. Strange vivid dream re star trek. Pitt is the maintenance man. Tuesday 6/7/22 midnight office pickup 8 am St. joseph Pomona beautiful church. Strange the guy who checked my veins at the blood place– out of the blue said to his co-worker “How are your parents” - she said “fine,
how are yours.” He responded “Mine passed away.” What was that all about? Who does that with a co-worker out of the blue? Nurse Marilyn almost told me I couldn’t donate because I didn’t eat a big enough breakfast. But they check our protein! I called her bluff.I think she realized she was mistaken. Then they had some concerns about my tinted face mask it’s a shield just like they wear but with orange tin. Donation went fast. They have better machines than some of the other places. After 1st blood donation. I went to Walmart in Torrance on Hawthorne strange cashier made some inappropriate comments. I made complaint later. Also kept seeing same gal aisle after aisle. Bought whey protein powder, also shrimp, beef, cocktail sauce, broccoli, cauliflower.
#PrayTheMovies: “Bad Guys” animated kind of funny entertaining at the regal promenade Tuesday discount. Coyote & snake in restaurant & a piranha too. Police chase. It’s all animals. The mint chip ice cream I bought barely had any choc chips– are they cutting back to save money? Tarantula assists with green lights. Mayor press conference insults angers TC bad guy. The good Sam is a guinea pig? The governor (not mayor) is a fox animal. He steals her ring. He’s a pick pocket too. Pray for primaries. Including Eric Early. Being good so good “shark swallows snake. Not good. But wolf saves kitten in tree. Good.”Go bad or go home” says one of the bad guys. But another says “Feels good to be good.” Wolf is actually having an inner conversation. “Gonna be good tonight” Wolf goes good. Professor marmalade is the bad guy. -- The “heart is the ultimate power source’ the fox governor is actually a bad guy pretending to be good. She busts another bad guy out. The fox governor is the notorious “crimson paw.” Marmalade flips the switch & it makes the guinea pigs go crazy. The other bad guys become good too, except snake. Pray for she pays cashier makes sure she was memorable. Sam Rockwell is the voice of the wolf.
Switcheroo: meteorite with good guy after all Wednesday 6/8 8am James no rosary because high school graduation. The retired Irish priest is an alpha 9am transfer 400 from Biomat to FCU , activate
bioLife card. Continue prayers for massacre in Nigeria church. Horrific. Heartbreaking. New EDUD at Malaga obnoxious attention-seeking. He’s got some mental issues. Red flag at Malaga. Left early because of it. Swim at Malaga. I go in the water catch a few waves. Some followers follow me in. I go out. They get out. What am I the pied piper? That was 2 to 4. Then I go over to Ave C. and catch a few better waves. Pray for obnox1 and prayers for obnox2
Thursday 6/9/22 James mass/rosary 8a, another transfer from Biomat to FCU. 10 am Malaga again. Obnox returns. So I leave early again 1pm. Tried snorkel at old spot but now it’s so full of kelp very difficult to swim in and see anything. Disappointing. Hope they clear it out eventually. Never was like that before. From there I go UTH to peninsula. Beware of the co-dependents.
Friday 6/10/22 all the way to HB HBPL. SVDP mass 8am - but no mass – only communion. Not sure why. 1pm NBPL 4pm swim. Then to Pomona. Sat 6/11/22 930 blood donation, 11am back to NBPL. Audio bible progress. Typed up education courses I completed. 330 swim. Sunday June 12 2022: 8 am Walmart. Bought new swim trunks, sandals. 2 t-shirts. $63. Looked at laptops guy tried to act smart about difference between laptops versus Chromebook. Ridiculous. Passed by Shepherds Grove. 1030 St. Neumann. Back to NBPL 12noon. More audio bible progress. 330 swim -found another abalone shell- broken. Not as shiny as 1st one I found here. Nice W lag at computer lab. Beach Boys tribute NBPL. That was fun. Big crowd. Monday 6/13/22 8am OLQA strange fella outside door. 9 to 12 cut paste progress. 12 to 3 audio bible, scribd, transcript, education courses, complete. 4 to 6 swim. New lifeguard being trained. Lots of stingrays by main beach. One big one. Later see some HUGE ones. Wow.
Tuesday 6/14/22 8am e-mass OLQA. OCD not there? 9 to 12 cut paste progress. 12 to 2 transcript blog, education and experience. AmeriPrayer. Skirt man comes in so I leave. Plus Sonital–2nd day same spot. After NBPL 3 to 430 swim saw octopus it hid quickly.
Cool. more stingray. Guy from Miami asked me about the water temp. It feels warm to me. But if he;s from Miami it would be very cold. 6pm Big TOP NB theatre- jurassic movie. Ok not great. Complete 2 missing chaps of audio bible. Gal at theatre said “I forgot it was tuesday” tried to charge me $18 supposed to be $6 on Tuesday. Jurassic movie: Bering Sea rough water whale creature capsizes ship BioSyn- big pharma- (I noticed this is a theme in mission impossible as well– where the bad guy creates a virus & a vaccine as well) now 30 years later. Cattle farm bio syn. Nevada. The re-created a dinosaur (like frankenstein theme). Poachers. Alarms escape chase. they steal a dino like a small hippo from the farm. Activists. Exposing mistreatment of dino. (Like movie Okja which I just watched- good film on netflix).. now sierra nevada. Horses roundup lasso a dino. Chris Pratt? yes. He often gets mistaken or confused with Chris Hemsworth -lookalike.
Pratt tames one of the dino’s or subdues it. Is that the girl from Quiet Place? No. similar looks though. I didn’t go past the bridge. Man vs nature. They use BioSyn. Near Utah. paleontology. Not allowed to go into town. What are they after the girl? Now west texas farm feed chicken, giant grasshoppers or locusts. Like a tornado. BioSyn is trying to control the world food supply? sound familiar? Bill Gates? Does art imitate life or life imitate art? now PA- wildlife relocated. The girl gets kidnapped by the greasers. Old school. along with the baby dino. Now in Italy BioSyn requisite black actor. Also Jeff Goldblum is back. He usually does a good job. The locusts will cause a famine. Now in Malta black female pilot. Another PC casting. Tower of Babel always comes to mind with these kinds of movies. Also Frankenstein of couse. Man investing artificial intelligence that overcomes the inventor. Or man thinks he’s smarter than God and God humbles man. The 2 explore on their own. Sam Neill looks like Dennis Quaid. Dino attacks planegoing down. Clare ejects. Plane crashes icy lake, they survive. Didn’t like it when brandon tatum used the “soy boy” derogatory. Talked to Al at L.A. Care about vision optometry benefits. Al was a nice
helpful guy must be in Sacramento. Nobody in L.A is like that. Black guy in this movie looks like AC Green. Called the Kook optometrist–she’s in paramount now. Did he have an attack of conscience. But they break out or was that supposed to happen locusts on fire. Flying. #PrayTheNews: 2 military planes crash on consecutive days. Now all are grounded. 1st accident all died. 2nd accident all survived. Yellowstone is closed for 2 days due to massive flooding. Ethan Liming a white kid gets killed by 3 black guys in Akron after a squirt gun incident. Heartbreaking. Evolution proaganda at the end of Jurassic Dominion- re “co-exist’ but the name of the movie is actually Biblical – have “dominion over the whole world.” it’s like they tacked on the secular co-exist theme as an afterthought thinking it had gotten a little too biblical?
6/15/22 Wednesday. 8am mass St. joseph Pomona -950 blood , next appt sun 920.; back to Ralphs –cottage cheese, pulled pork, OJ, saw a pacific trumpetfish while snorkeling lime green. Also leopard sharks. Maybe yellow perch? good swim. Cloudy but still warm. Continue research re E85 gas. IT’s $2 less here. But in some places it’s actually more than regular gas. Now back to PV RB 6/16/22 Thursday 8 am St. james another graduation ceremony? elementary graduation? 10am malaga, scribd, audio bible, new pics old flash, swim & walk at RB. Friday 6/17/22 james mass no rosary, just silent prayer. Library not open friday. From 10 to 2 researched E85talked to Alex in Idaho again. Sounds legit. He works out of his home there I think. 2 to 5 inside PV lib- north rim grand canyon pics, rocky mountains, estes park, dinosaur monument, vernal utah mechanic from bellflower, lake powell page arizona, vermillion, great pics. Wind storm cedar rapids iowa. Lost images trying to convert. 530 swim & walk finished Pig movie (Okja)), also finished Dumb & Dumber & Anchorman- all idiotic movies crude etc. had to watch to know what they’re about.
Sat 6/18/22 sunny day. 8am mass rosary Thaddeus asian lady dominating verbal responses so loud and every word punctuated it was overwhelming. Like she was trying to make a statement– or a power play. 10am I was about to order the fuel flex device but Tony the mechanic didn’t respond to my text. He was initially so eager now no response. Now silence. So I waited before making the order. Good thing I did. I might not need it. 10am malaga . added tran fluid, pow steer, oil good. man on computer in darkness. I flip on lights.. at 2pm go to snorkel beach. Guy parked too close behind me. Dead bird on walk to beach. Nice help as I’m leaving parking. Over to C Street long swim. 5pm audio Bible doing the missing Ezekiel chapters. What’s the deal with the strange letters from nephews. Midnight stopped in at office. Picks up duffel bag full of old dvd/cd’s trying to find the missing audio bible chapters actually still looking for a bag full of flash drives. What happened to them?
6/19/22 Sunday 8am St. Joseph Pomona– quiet guy directly behind me didn’t even hear him come in. 920 blood donation- Christina is nice. She’s talkative. Sociable. From Pomona to irvine all lights red in irvine. Unbelievable. Walmart barbacoa, cashew milk, orange juice, applesauce, bananas, beans, pears, chips, cott cheese. 1230 neumann stop -in. 1pm A.L.R. to NBPL. pulled up old videos off 1st CD- originals from the good ol days. Including the music that got me striked off my original YouTube channel. Now this music is allowed wont get copyright strike just can’t monetize it. 330 swim nice shell- great visibility. Big coast guard boat out there today. 3pm dim light lady arrived- next time say NO. makes me nauseous. after swim completed a few more audio bible verses from ezekiel. Every day still doing STREET EVANGELISM! New sleep spot!
Monday 6/20/22 8am #PrayerBook, 9am NBPL mount baldy in same spot. The upstairs computers don’t have dvd/cd. Go downstairs 10am. Finding more of my old historic videos. But none of the audio Bible. The Psalms Across America videos are fun to flashback on. Some were in the classrooms where I was sub
teaching. Others in yellowstone and random places. Sometimes with the preachers robe on. That one in yellowstone in a meadow with Lola running around behind me was fun. Also the bear in yellowstone ! good footage of that. Also Philippines II. 52 days. Great commission Across America. 100 Islands. 2pm swim came back and somebody was almost literally on top of my towel. No respect no etiquette for respecting people’s towel space. Tons of leopard sharks today. 4pm more dvd progress. Tuesday 6/21/22 NBPL dvd progress, more Psalms Across America, Easter Washington state, Best Christmas ever 2004 2005, Crystal News flash 10th floor ! Holy Spirit Series from the Crystal cathedral. Netherlands too ! good stuff.
Wednesday 6/22/22 8am St. joseph pomona ,blood donation 940am. Swim back at NB by the giant stingrays the really gigantic ones huge heads– just lying on the bottom on top of each other maybe mating? also tried 1.2 gallons of E85 with half tank first time. No problems. Discussion with Alex Conger in Idaho re Fuel Flex. He’s in the Pump Movie. He mentioned the real reason for the prohibition. Suddenly his tone changed from conversational to “I gotta go…ok buddy bye.” A quick change of disposition. Then I talked to Tony the mechanic. He’s a believer now. He figured out how these devices work. At first he thought there was “no science” behind it. And had chat with yug re giant stingrays. He made reference to Steve Irwin. I mentioned the sunset beach stingrays. He mentioned the shark attack right here at newport beach. I mentioed the spider crab I saw. He knew exactly what it is. Pretty smart. Thursday 6/23/22 redondo beach. Mass rosary, loud lady not so loud today. Malaga DVD progress. Also Lola videos. And bear at yellowstone.
8am visiting priest from Africa (friend of Thaddeus, from same home town). Sadly he didn’t mention the SCOTUS decision. What’s up with that? Saturday 6/25/22 8am James. Bad latecomer misery. 10 am Malaga. Attention seeker arrives. Spends 90 minutes laughing loudly at video on computer made the time miserable. I think he’s mentally ill. He’s got issues. I put the jacket over my head with my headphones on-. Later he became very quiet. Although every now and then he would yell at the people downstairs to “be quiet.” Maybe avoid Malaga on Saturday. He’s got issues. Left early swim & walk.. walked to the riviera village street fest. Sunday 6/26/22 to Pomona. $50 gas at $5.77 per gal, plus 3 gal E85 at $3.89 ($12 total). 8am St. Joseph church. Warm inside. All fans on high oscillate. 930am blood donation. Christina was there. She’s nice. 12 noon, Walmart Irvine. 1230 to 330 Youtube video progress. 4 to 6 swim newport beach should be warm this time of year but there was an “upwelling” – probably from the “submarine canyon” – some spots ICE COLD– brrr. Bl family trying to fly a kite- failure. Sad.
MOnday June 27 2022 8am CP, 9am video progress. Also AmeriCamera- Glacier NP 2020, also around Lake Powell, North Rim Grand Canyon, Page AZ, then thru Las Vegas with car still having “issues”-- especially with the extreme heat. It’s a miracle I made it back on that trip (this is flashback). Mechanically, I don’t think it was possible. But with God all things are possible. It may actually have been a miracle. So I’m in the NBPL computer lab and a chubby fellow (new guy) asks me if he can borrow a pen . Sure, no problem. But in the progress he uses all the local yokel terms “hey guy.. Then he ads “bud”, then ‘boss” or something like that. This is a constant M.O. by local low-down yokels.. It gets so tiring. You just want to escape from them. This guy was scanning photography negatives. Something I was looking into as well. Maybe later. found some of my old crystal news videos from the 10th floor when I was starting out as a newscaster for Mustard Seed News. I did a few segments up there – the good ol days. Also found some Thailand tsunami footage. And Tulips in Washington (state). & some of my
old Psalms Across America videos. 2pm swim- the upwelling continues day 2. Back to NBPL 4 to 7 pm. Having trouble doing maps evangelism on my galaxy phone for some reason. Tuesday 6/28/2 830am called Biomat. They have a new app talked to Shannon. She asked me my name twice. They do that intentionally here. Make you repeat your name over & over. Donor Hub registered - if and when I return there. mount baldy at NBPL –did a little walk around behind me–not sure what that was all about.
#PrayTheMovies: Elvis. “I’m Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). Starts with controversy. Parker says “Without me, there would be no Elvis…They call me the showman and snowman.” cross on neck. Parker in hospital. He’s telling the whole story from the hospital? Now flashback to Elvis childhood. Elvis had a twin brother who died at birth. Elvis’ dad was in prison for check forgery for a short while. Now young Elvis at a tent revival mostly black and has a Holy SPirit experience. He imitated black musicians. Sun Studios 1954. Sam Phillips. Ladies go crazy. Forbidden fruit. Back street Memphis. Father “I don’t need no pink cadillac.” controversy re the way Elvis moves on stage.
#PrayTheMovies: beware the lure of success. “The art of the snow job” carnival atmosphere. “You aint nothin but a hound dog.” called vulgar by some. “Black hips voodoo music devil music “ the original twerker? “Elvis the pelvis.” broke segregation laws. Petition to band Elvis from TV. Trying new family style to appease critics but it doesn’t go too well. Graceland. Elvis’ mom called him ‘booby’. Big mama Thornton sang the original hound dog song. Police pull Elvis off stage 1956. Elvis joins army to avoid jail. Fact or fiction? Hound dog song on Steve Allen show- actual hound dog on stage. Elvis feels humiliated. Mom dies young of alcoholism. Now Elvis returns from Army- and goes to Hollywood. MLK is killed in Memphis big effect on Elvis 1968. New baby born. Old Hollywood sign-dilapidated. “Jail house rock” song. “Blue suede shoes.” New producers. Olivia Dejonge plays Priscilla. Character looks like Craig VG. Xmas special: no Xmas songs. New look- black leather
sideburns. Now Senator Kennedy shot at hotel. Gary Clark Jr has a part in this movie. I had an encounter with him once (at the Beatles reunion concert). Elvis separates from Parker. Parker lures him back with Vegas show. Tom Parker had lots of gambling debt. International Hotel- 5 million 5 years. Priscilla is tired of Elvis medication addiction. “10,000 doses of amphetamines, narcotics, & sedatives.” Something about Charles Manson. Elvis exhaustion –goes to hospital. Starts taking pills. Also satellite concert. Priscilla leaves him. Elvis cancels international tour- stays in Vegas. Airplane called “The Lisa Marie” - daughter’s name (I saw the plane in Memphis across from Graceland). Elvis dies age 42. Back to NBPL – progress, glacier & Yellowstone pics. Swim NB - Latino takes my seat with smug look on face despite all my stuff being on the bench.
Wednesday June 29 2022: to Pomona- blood donation. Then to Walmart - not a very nice location. Then back to Redondo- swim 130 to 2, then Red Bch photo edit 230 to430, walk RB 5 to 6.
Thursday 6/30 St. James 8am rosary mass. Thaddeus. 10 to 2 Malaga library. 2 to 3 swim stepped on sharp object felt like nails - not a stingray- left four pokes on bottom of foot fortunately not too deep. Lifeguards were alarmed not sure what happened. I let out a big yell when it happened. 4 to 6 went back to Red Bch library for the 1st time in a long time. Same ol same ol. That same narcissistic Yankee Doodle dandy still working here. After RB– took walk - 3 to4 miles. Good workout day. Swim & walk. Friday July 1 8am mass rosary at James. 10am swim. 11am laundry. Jerk #1 backed up in pickup. Jerk #2 jeep beeper. Jerk #3 parked too close to me, even though there were plenty of other spots everywhere. 2 to 5 back at Malaga lib– AmeriCamera progress. No jerks today. 6pm Swim #2- dolphins came very close that was cool. 1 guy swimming after them thinking he can catch them. Good luck. No walk today. Saturday July 2 “your refusal to meet with me individually suggests you have an agenda.” The loud knurd yug apologized at Malaga. Twice. That was unexpected. He’s got some issues. Swim #1 10 to 11
am. Swim #2 4 to 5 pm. Walk to pier for summer concert 2.5. Miles -I just briefly walk by don’t usually stay.
Sunday July 3 2022 stopped in at office around 2am Found DVD with missing audio Bible segments- that’s a big miracle It would have taken me another year to record these again. I manage to transfer them with literally only a few seconds of my time remaining (that’s a synchronicity). Now I can get audio Bible online again very soon! And I do! 8am St. Joseph Pomona. 9am final blood donationa few problems had to switch arms half way. Bad jab by the 1st gal. 11 am stop in at the Target. They don’t have self-checkout here. Go thru the lane. Cashier gives me a surprised look. Bought some hot dogs for 4th of July, also cashew milk, sea salt, chips & raisins. Gas 10 gallons unleaded. 5 gallons E85. Still experimenting. Not up to 50/50 yet. 430p swim at CDM - the water is normal again. Thankfully. Had to park at the CDM post office - it was so busy at the beach. Not too far to walk really. Back to NBPL after swiminformal car show in parking lot.
Monday 4th of July. Happy Independence Day 2022 morning starts out gray. And I found the missing flash drives! Things are getting better every day. On OTR: re Hoboken Zephyrs robot pitcher ‘Casey’-- good one. Making CP progress (cut paste for storyboards) == lots of material from Page AZ portion– including Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, North Rim Grand Canyon, Vermillions, etc. beautiful area including Bryce & Zion up north. Deserves more time. Swim #1 at 1130am, went all the way to the pier but not much to see there . then more CP, then swim #2 4 to 530 found 2 good abalone shells this time– wow! It’s rare to find one. Now I find 2. Amazing. Nice & shiny. Also some of the big starfish & one big leopard shark. I may have gotten a good pic of it. I stay around until 9pm fireworks. can see several other fireworks shows from this high point above Corona Del Mar beach. Remember that for next time. July 5 Tuesday filling in missing book 9a Bible plus starting Tunes to Tube. Now at Tuesday discount movie Palos Verdes.
#PrayTheMovies: “The Black Phone” notes: little league Denver 1978 - realistic re cars & clothes & hair for that period I remember well. White pitcher Asian batter hits homerun off of him. Cocky. Song “Free Ride.” Now on bike. Asian kid missing. They call the suspect “The Grabber.” This feels like an “It” movie Stephen King style. Is it? (No pun intended). Fight at school. The main character is NOT a fighter. He gets bullied. Dark van foreshadowing. Young gal the other main character (the kid’s sister) she has dreams this time of black balloons.. Single dad doesn’t want to hear of his daughter’s dreams. His deceased wife apparently had dreams too and it drove her crazy. Bad stereotype casting in this film. They’re watching “Emergency” on TV. I remember that. Gal talks to Jesus. What about Chris Van Dam. They’re dissecting a frog. There’s the van again “Abracadabra Entertainment.” Drop groceries. Kid gets kidnapped by the grabber. There’s the black balloons. The phone rings. Grabber says the phone doesn’t work, but the kid talks to somebody. He’s locked in the basement. Prayers for Victims of Trafficking. Grabber wears creepy clown mask. Sound similar? Kid digs hole at night. He opens the window- but later it’s closed again. What happened? Turns out their mother apparently commit suicide. Finney Blake is the name of the kid he finally escapes. Just as the detectives arrive. Final scene back at school everybody respects the kid because he killed the grabber. Wednesday July 6 2022 peninsula library 10 to 1230, then the BB arrived. She evokes unbelievable rage within me. I couldn’t stay. Moved on to Malaga almost finished A-Bible! After Malaga took swim & klaw 5 to 7 pm. 7/7/22 Thursday 8am mass & rosary. Thaddeus. 10 am Malaga there’s a peacock right outside my car. Took a pic. Finished ABible! Audio Bible yes! NewAudioBible.blogspot.com. 230pm, 3 to 4 miws, 4 to 6 completed missing A Bible segments. 6 to 730 walk to RB Pier Led Zepp tribute band. Notes re meetings with TT12.
Friday July 8 2022 plus parking ticket good grief. $57. Unfair. 6 of the 8 signs on the block say “No Parking Sat or Sun.” This is Friday.
2 of the 8 say “no parking Friday 6 to 11 am” but ZERO of these signs are west of the church driveway. So if you turn around in the driveway you will NOT see the Friday signs. Why don’t they combine all of them? Ridiculous. Lack of planning. St. Bernard 8am. 9 am here’s Jim at McD. and at noon here’s Lin. Lin said Jim took a fall one time when they were walking along the riverbed. She wonders if that added to his memory problems. Jim mentioned Steve on a trip but couldn’t remember where. Maybe Mexico he said. Turns out according to Lin the whole family went to Hawaii. That’s nice. Although I would rather go in the winter when it’s colder here. I lived there for half a year attending Chaminade University of Honolulu. That was a blast. Linda told a long story about her former co-teacher Connie. Too long. My mind can’t stay with these long stories. I mean I remember it all but my conversational style is much more punchy. Mention something. Talk about it briefly. Move on to another subject or related subject. Kind of like stream of consciousness. Connie’s son is a reformed pastor. That’s interesting. Small world. Given they were teachers at a public school. How coincidental is that that they both have Reformed Church associations. (Jim was one of the pastors at the Crystal Cathedral, RCA, although he’s ordained CRC). More notes from the gathering coming up.
Saturday July 9 back in Redondo. Spent a little time on the brand new audio Bible on YouTube same audio but this also has a visual cue along with the audio. Maybe more people will encounter it on YouTube than on a blog. You can see it at (2) New Audio Bible - YouTube if it doesn’t click. Then copy and paste this into the browser youtube.com/channel/UCUkKCO9GxEYgFPvo6rgg3nQ . This will take MORE time because I have to find a thematic photo to accompany each chapter. And some chapters are divided into parts. But it’s fun and also a good re-learning experience. After Malaga, took a swim, and then returned to Bellflower Sunday July 10 to take photos of the parking signs in front of the church on Beach Street where I got the parking ticket 2 days ago. Plan to appeal this one.
Definitely not my fault on this one. Lack of signage is the problem. C’mon Bellflower. You can do better. Onward from Bellflower starting my summer mission trip! Praise the Lord. Prayers for God’s presence along the way. Stopped in Ventura for gas. The cheapest gas station in town also has long lines. They have E85 gas but only at 2 of the 8 pumps. I mix half regular with half E85 so I have to swipe credit card twice in 10 minutes and capitol one apparently found this suspicious. So it declined my card the 2nd time. So I had to try my bank debit card. Fortunately this did work. Total gas in Ventura about $63.72 to fill it up averaging $5.09 per gallon. Little better than the going rate of $5.80 to $6.40. More JimLin notes: Linda says that Abe Peters did NOT own a dye business but a “dime store business’’ - a chain of dime stores as they called them back then around the Holland area. Hmm. How somebody came up with “dye”-- maybe it was told to them on the phone or something and they heard it wrong. Linda remembers all the names of her grandkids– my nephews & nieces. Her mind is sharp. They’re leaving for Michigan tomorrow Long Beach to Chicago - then rental car to St. Joseph. We discussed teaching experiences, and the disappearance of the principal A. Franco. That was strange experience. And then the death of Jim Zoetewey and two others in a car accident. Talked about my daily swimming regiment (which is actually a daily snorkeling regiment in Newport, or bodysurfing in Redondo- one or the other usually.). I mentioned the upwelling of cold water in Newport recently probably from nearby Submarine Canyon. She says she used to swim in Lake Michigan when it was 52 degrees. I think kids can handle cold water easier. And even more so if you’re chubby. As she was back then. She’s thin now. Mentioned Mt. Rainer-. She said she had been there but wasn’t impressed. But I’m thinking she may have been to Mt. St. Helen which is NOT very impressive visually.
While Mt. Ranier is pretty spectacular especially if you hike up there a ways which I did last summer. Some pretty incredible hikes & views. Including waterfalls, meadows, mountain lakes, etc. We
talked about the Elvis movie. She said she heard it was too “sexual”or actually she remembered personally the criticism of Elvis as being too sexual back in the 50’s. She said she first heard of Elvis when she was at Interlochen. But she was too “nerdy” to ever go to any of his concerts. For Jim having a bad memory he was able to remember the address of our Iowa house on Meadow Street. He also showed me where the house was that he grew up in– in the location of 1st CRC Bellflower. He says it was surrounded mostly by dairy farms back then. He pointed out one house that’s still an original from that time. #PrayTheNews: 15 killed in Johannesburg shooting (Soweto). Reminds me of my trip there. I explored Joburg and Cape Town and other areas– mostly by rental car. Good experience. Jim also was a paper boy for the Holland Sentinel & later for the GR Press Stopped in at L.A. Pet Cemetery (Calabasas) where Lola is buried. I do this every now & then when I am passing thru the area. A few times I found the stone was kind of dirty and grass growing over it. This time it was clean & clear. A friendly guy named Brian in a cart drove up & introduced himself. He also showed me that every memorial stone has a “flower hole” they didn’t tell me that back in 2007 when I buried her here. The hole was buried under the grass and he undug it. Nice of him. And then he nicely went and got some flowers from the lost & found & put them in there with a USA flag. Very nice. He mentioned that Hopalong Cassidy’s horse Topper is buried here. I never knew that. And google search confirmed it later: “Where is Hopalong Cassidy's horse buried? Hoppy's horse Topper, who is buried at the Los Angeles Pet Memorial Park in Calabasas, California.” you can see pictures of it if you search images. Brian said he’s the “White mamba” which I didn’t catch right away– he said he was making a Kobe Bryant joke.
Then I caught on Kobe’s helicopter crashed not far from where we were standing. Almost right across the freeway towards Malibu. That was a very sad day and half a year, etc. I was actually in San Francisco when I heard the news. Spielberg has a dog buried here as well. Also I think he said Tori Spelling‘s dog or one of the Spellings.
This conversation transpired because I asked him if Lassie was buried here. As I had heard when I first came here to bury Lola. Apparently it’s not true. Onward. My Fuel range is now 603 miles at 1pm Sunday. At 144 pm it is now 540 miles. At 244 pm it is now 476 miles. Jim mentioned that his brother Gary now has a house in Florida- he wasn’t sure which city but in the southern part. Jim has never been to FL. I pulled out my Christian music CD’s that I hadn’t listened to in a long time. “Come Just as you are to Worship”, “I will Give you All my Worship”, Jesus Friend of Sinners, going thru SLO- 307pm, “Every Step I Take.” Here’s CA Men’s Colony big prison turn down the driveway just St. I can say a video prayer for the prisoners. I do this every time I see a prison or jail anywhere. City of Harmony 341 pm “We wanna see Jesus lifted High.” Thru Morro area. Cayucos 332. “Jesus Friend Forever” “You are Merciful” I used to listen to these CD’s all the time and used them with my videos– but back then YouTube started giving copyright strikes to YouTube channels that used this music. Now it is allowed as long as you are not using it to monetize for yourself. Here’s City of Cambria 4pm. And now San Simeon. I drive up the Hearst Castle driveway. Last time I was here the tours were closed only the gift shop was open, due to covid. Now it’s all running again. I’ve done the tour at least 3 times I think. “People Get Ready, Jesus is Coming” “My Place in the World.” “There’s power when I’m on my Knees’. Here’s Piedras Blancas 430pm. “Deep Enough to Dream in Brilliant Colors that I’ve Never Seen” (Chris Rice).
Here’s San Carpoforo Creek 440pm. It’s foggy here. Forecast said sunny. Oh well. 5pm Here’s Salmon Falls- I always make a point of making the short walk to see the falls. Depending on which time of year it is sometimes there’s a lot of water flowing, other times Very little. Now in July it’s little. Or maybe now it’s always just a little all year around. Not sure. I’ve seen it in full flow at least once and it’s pretty spectacular. I got a video of it somewhere. A few people playing in the swimming hole below the falls. “Dona Nobis Pacem” (Von Trapp singers.” Mexican family had dead battery. Getting a
jump as I leave. Here’s Limekiln 537 did the hike there once. And here’s the monastery at 540 drove up there once and attended a service. It’s quite the drive, and view. “Lord I lift your name on High” Here’s the Esalen Institute 555 kind of a unique place with natural hot springs I’ve heard haven’t been in there but did drive down the driveway once. Used to be popular with celebrities. “I could Sing of Your Love Forever’ Here’s the Henry Miller library–line of people at the gate– is there a concert tonight? Kind of an eclectic place. Kind of cool to sit in there and have a coffee. “Drink this water Thirst No More” “Oh God You’ve been So Good to Me.” Here’s Molera State park 626pm. Making good time. Bixby Bridge 638 pm. Rocky Creek Bridge 640pm, Garrapatra Creek Bridge 645 (cool place). “I’m getting into You because You Got to me.” “It’s a Phenomena that Can’t be Stopped” Slept at Mission Inn Carmel Monday July 11 8 am Carmelite monastery morning mass. Been here once before many years ago. Nice to see it’s still operational. 930 am take a hike at the Carmel Meadows area. First time here–wow, I’ve been missing out. Beautiful hike along the shore. Rocky & beachy. But the main reason I’m here is to snorkel at the notorious Monastery Beach aka Mortuary beach because people have died here from the way the waves break on the shore especially people with scuba gear apparently. It pulls you back at the drop-off when it’s not suspected. But there’s warnings everywhere now. And it looks pretty calm today.
I walk to the far south end along the border of the Point Lobos Reserve. I dip my feet in the water. It’s NOT warm, but not as cold as it is in January. Maybe high 50’s at best. That’s cold but manageable without a wetsuit. And I’m used to cold water swims. As I’m getting ready a gal comes by and just stands nearby not sure what’s up with that. But she says hi. SO I greet her and exchange pleasantries. Then I make my way in and almost immediately I come across an abalone shell– but it has writing in it. Definitely not too wild. Some gal wrote a love letter on the inside of the shell. Hmm. Tons of HUMONGOUS starfish here.
Unbelievable. Also some fish, & jelly fish. I swam towards the lifeguard stand (no lifeguard there yet) just to see if the beach is as difficult and dangerous as they say. The gal I spoke with happened to be walking back that way too. As I came to the beach, she threw a jellyfish in my direction. Then she saw me washing up on the beach, and said “Sorry I didn’t know you were there. I wasn’t throwing the jellyfish at you, just trying to help it out” It was kind of comical.
People don’t realize that I am practically blind without my glasses, so I just see shapes even from a few feet away I cannot see their facial expressions & I am sure my face sends out ambiguous expressions when I don’t wear my glasses unintentionally on my part. It’s part of the reason I’ve been misunderstood and misinterpreted for most of my life. Sometimes I will take off my glasses just while walking around etc & people do NOT realize I cannot see their faces apart from a blurry blob. I did this one time when I was working as a chaplain intern at UCLA medical center and it led to a serious misunderstanding or misinterpretation of my actions. Ask me about it some time. Maybe I will write about it sometime. So I snorkel back to the deep part the beach landing was NOT difficult or dangerous at all. Maybe because it’s a calm day. Safeway pulled pork, cottage cheese, 2 bagels. After monastery beach I went to pacific Grove and their famous Loves Cove snorkeled there as well snorkeled here previously but did NOT notice the GIGANTIC starfish here – maybe the “sunflower stars?” This time I was more exploratory and took more time I’m getting better at being a cold water swimmer. These starfish are stunning different colors & as big as half a basketball. Really amazing. A few people on the beach today relatively warm. But not many in the water. After snorkeling I went over to the Pacific Grove Library–they’ve remodeled. This old library was the original building for SO MANY YEARS nothing to be ashamed about but definitely needing some upgrades. And they finally did. I exclaimed “Looks good” and one of the librarians responded. “I hope so. It cost 2.5. Million dollars”-- I think she said. I got a new library card and used the computer for a while. Outside the farmers market was in
progress & I could hear the couple playing folk music. Walked thru after library.
Tuesday July 12: attended mass at San Carlos Cathedral 745 am, then over to the Walmart picked up a few groceries. From there to Moss Landing got good close-up views of the otters. I almost always pause here when passing thru to or from Santa Cruz- fun to watch the otters. Also there’s decent surfing here– watched the surfers for a little while. Heard an interview of Jerome Davis for congress. He sounds like a good candidate, & conservative. Prayers for: Monterey migrant workers, Britney Griners being held by the Russian authorities for having cannabis oil , road workers, construction workers. City of Watsonville 11:15am arriving in Santa Cruz thought I would attend the noon mass at the shrine, but didn’t realize that their mass starts at 11:15. Too late. I park by Steamers Lane and rest. A little while later I snorkel steamer lane–out by the surfers. One of the surfers acts annoyed by me even though I am not interfering with them. Some surfers are A holes. Most are cool. But I always wonder don’t any of these surfers ever enjoy doing other things like snorkeling or scuba diving or playing other sports? Are they such hard core surfers that this is all they ever do? Do they read books? Have anything else happening in their life? I know pro surfer Kelly Slater at least also golfs, and he’s a businessman. I think he plays a little guitar too. Not much to see snorkeling steamer lane water is pretty murky-. Starfish on the walls.
Wednesday July 13 2022: attended 830am mass at the mission chapel. Used to come here more often when I stayed in Santa Cruz for several days. Now only if the timing is right when I am passing thru. Then I head up the canyon towards San Jose lots of little towns here. First there’s Henry Cowell redwood state park. City of Felton , Ben Lomond 920, Brookdale 924, Boulder Creek 924. I stop in at Quarry Park at 1030- and take a short hike toward the “pond” which turns out to be a dry indentation. Everything seems to be
going dry these days in CA. This was an old mining area. Some old tunnels remain with gated entrances (locked). I wonder how far back they go. Sign says bat colonies have inhabited them. Here’s Montalvo a beautiful estate free to wander around various sculptures nice long green lawn. An outdoor auditorium for events. Free tootsie pop! Haven’t had a tootsie pop in decades. Then I pass thru Vasona County Park in Los Gatos. Happened upon this during the height of covid a few years ago– when they made parking free for a while. Normally it’s all paid parking. Lots of open space. A pond. A train track for kids. Etc. From there I venture over to Saratoga Library and use the computer briefly. Updated my Santa Clara library card. Stop in at Cupertino Library (big). Worked on Audio Bible for a while. Added new Gmail “AudioBibleTube”-maybe I will use it in the future. But for now my audio Bible is at NewAudioBible Gmail & YouTube & blogger. Found an E85 station in San Jose – filled up with a half & half combo of regular & E85. Seems to be working. Saves me about $20 per fill up. This one had regular gas for $5.49 (total $50) and E85 for $3.99 (total $36) 18 gallons total for $86 $4.77 average- that’s better than $5.77 or more. Stop in at good ol’ Sunnyvale Library- updated my card. Started using the computer until some jerk started laughing loudly at something on his computer. And again. And again. … I started mimicking him hoping he would stop. & thought maybe the roaming security guard would ask him to tone it down. But it didn’t happen. He kept laughing loudly seemed to be doing it intentionally to annoy me. I couldn’t take it any longer. Got up & left. Noticed there are tents in the lawn by this library now apparently they are allowing homeless to camp out.
Thursday July 14 did some exercise on the musical playground to start the morning. After exercise over to Mitchel Park Library they are setting up for a carnival of sorts in the park here. Didn’t see anything online about it. 10am enter library– start composing my appeal of the Bellflower parking citation – there are 8 no parking signs near St. Bernard Church. 6 of the 8 say “No Parking Saturday
or Sunday.” 2 of the 8 say “No Parking Friday from 6 to 11 am.” This was a Friday. When I pulled in I turned around in the church driveway– and parked on the street west of the church. The two signs west of the driveway say “No Parking Saturday or Sunday” meaning ZERO of the signs west of the driveway say “No parking Friday”- I argue this is unacceptable. They should combine all the signs so that if you park anywhere on the block you know ALL the restrictions. It’s a $57 ticket. If they are honest they will void this citation. We will wait and see. After Mitchell library I go to Rinconada and continue work on Audio Bible (or Tube Bible) , I haven’t been back here since “the incident” -which made me NOT want to go here for a while. Didn’t see the jerk that I remember from that time seemed like he had just gotten out of prison. Not a nice guy. Continue doing movie reviews on Netflix- currently watching “The Shack.” Finished “Blue Miracle” (based on true story re orphanage in Mexico) (Dennis Quaid). Also reviewing “I am Legend” with Will Smith about him being one of the last survivors of some sort of virus that also created zombies who want to kill the last survivors. Also reviewing “Catch Me if You Can” starring Tom Hanks & Leo DiCaprio. This is a different type of character for DiCaprio. Decent acting. Also Martin Sheen.
#PrayTheNews: lefty CA governor Newsom shows up at the white house when Biden is gone. Is he planning a run for POTUS in the near future? Friday July 15 8am stretch/exercise at regular spot on Stanford soccer field across from Palo Alto High School (“Paly”). Then a lawnmower guy ruined the peace. Seemed to come straight in my direction so I picked up my yoga mat and moved to the other side of the soccer practice field- closer to El Camino– strange– was he doing this just to annoy me because the lawn on the other side of the fence was clearly already recently mowed. And he only did one lap around the outer perimeter. Then he stopped. I posted a review later expressing my concern & feelings about this. Stanford people are usually NOT like this– they are a welcoming community–usually. But if anybody isn’t, it would be some white guy on a
lawnmower, probably. After exercise & 9am #PrayerBook, I go to the “cottage” library actually the “college terrace library”-- had another incident here a few years ago. Seems like they got all new employees now seem to be foreign born employees. Continue download progress on Scribd. Then Audio Bible progress. Lots of lawns around here are yellow grass dead no watering allowed? Now I’m at the Palo Alto main library at 1:25 pm an elderly white lady is tutoring a black Stanford student in French language. Completed the bellflower parking appeal yesterday. Nice employee working here. Prayers4 her. 2 to 330 walk from El Camino to Cantor & Anderson Museum. Neat film at Cantor. Feeling nicer here now. Parked by Frost from 4 to 630 walked around campus. Beautiful evening. High school kids having jazz camp at Stanford now. They’re playing outside the cafeteria area.
Saturday July 16th 2022 8 am mass at Nativity in Menlo /Atherton. 930am hiked the Dish while watching Sing II – funny movie. 1130 Menlo Library they don’t have any computers at all anymore. Maybe better this way. But they added a pool table. Go figure. The brand new Atherton Library 1 to 3 pm looks nice. Used to be an old trailer which seemed strange for one of the wealthiest zip codes in America. This library lives up to their socio economic status. Used the computer for a while. Then over to Nativity for 5pm vigil mass. Sl: quiet place. Sunday July 17th 2022 730 am Aquinas church in residential Palo Alto. Then 830 Menlo Church same greeter as a few years ago an Asian guy who likes to do a fist bump as you enter. The church is much less busy than I remember since the big shakedown happened and the pastor controversy. They still do not have a new senior pastor. Today’s guest pastor seems to be indirectly preaching about the issue he’s warning of the danger of “Charismatic leaders.” Leave early. Didn’t like the sermon. 11am Now at Memorial Church at Stanford- thought it was just going to be sacred music..but there was a bit of Bible reading and preaching–by the black female pastor from the Methodist church in P.A. I remember her- went there once or twice. Also passed by Wilbur
Field where the Catholics are now meeting outdoors. Then back to the Stanford Oval where I park and rest from noon to 2. Wasn’t expecting to get “injured” today– but it will happen.
Around 230 I decide to get some exercise and do “The Dish” in the middle of the hot day. I start hiking go up halfway and then turn around to return- maybe about 3 miles total today. As I am coming back down the hill–as usual I am also reviewing a movie on my phone- 2 people coming my way- a guy & gal- we pass each other next thing I know I am falling forward and both my phones are falling too.. And I can’t seem to get my arms out in front of me to stop my fall. The next thing I know is my face is literally stopping my fall on the asphalt in front of me. I actually hit one side of my temple above my left eye, and then the brunt of the impact was on the right side it felt like blood was coming down from above my eye- but when I touched my eye- I didn’t have any blood on my hand. Turns out it was “internal blood” for a brief moment– causing a black eye-. Also skinned my hand and knee. Could have been worse. Both phones still working. The gal/guy who passed stopped and the gal exclaimed, “Are you OK?” she sounded more annoyed or even angry at me than caring, but maybe it was a misperception. I was stunned. I was still getting up and picking up my phones. I turned toward them and said “Sorry”-- and they looked at me confused why I said sorry. Then I said “I mean, yes, I think so.” I pointed at the large gap on the side of the pavement and said “It’s this gap.” The guy said “Yes.” I started walking again. They continued onward. They were not very caring. Stanford students I think. Probably thinking I was irresponsible or something. I made it back to my car and used a gallon of water to wash my hair, face, & body. Felt a little better. Looked in the mirror and saw the start of the black eye. Need ice. I went to Menlo McDonalds and ordered a large drink and used the ice on my eye for an hour or so. Felt better. Still feeling a bit groggy and lightheaded. Maybe a little nauseous. Maybe a concussion. Probably. SL: quiet spot.
Monday July 18 2022 815 am St. Raymond church. Priest opens door for me. Usually this door is unlocked. He’s a new priest. He thinks I’m new because he hasn’t seen me before. That’s the way it goes. Been coming here for decades now. After St. Raymond I go to Lucky in Redwood City and pick up some cheese, coconut oil. Then I make my way to Filoli - the famous estate & gardens- I’ve been meaning to come visit here for years. Finally am able to make it work out. As I enter the driveway a group of wild turkeys cross the road. I park and buy a ticket and walk thru the mansion. Not like a Hearst Castle but nice for its time in history. The gardens are exceptional nice swimming pool. Nice rose garden. Lots of visitors. Then I see a big turkey thru some bushes– followed by a bunch of little ones. It disappears. I keep looking for it off trail a little bit I find it leading a group of about 10 babies around fun to watch them. Got a few pictures. Nobody else noticed them. Baby turkeys are called poults. Still a bit light headed. After Filoli I briefly stop by the Pulgas Water Temple- and then continue north towards San Francisco. Stop at my old spot by Crissy Beach- rest a little. Walk a little. Big dredging contraption by the Yacht Club watch it for a while.
Tuesday July 19 2022 9am St. Ignatius they still require masks here. 10am Legion of Honor Art Museum- haven’t been here in a long time. They still have free organ recitals here. Nice museum. Lots of good art including lots of Madonna painting. They also have an exhibit here called Guo Pei: Couture Fantasy pretty spectacular dresses by this Chinese fashion designer. I’m not normally into fashion, but these dresses are like small exquisite cars built around the body. Fun. After Legion I go back to Crissy around 1pm - take a walk, use the shower. #PrayTheNews: re All Star game at Dodgers Stadium American League wins again 9th straight. Listened to Dr Simone Gold on the radio being interviewed she is a lawyer and a doctor– went to Stanford Law School– happened to come to Wash DC on January 6 as an invited speaker, and happened to enter the Capitol when the DC police were waving
people in. She’s also with America’s Frontline Doctors & speaks about the dangers of the vaccine, giving solid scientific facts. And she was arrested & charged for trespassing – wrongly so. And even worse she received a harsh sentence to federal prison for 60 days “She also must pay a fine of $9,500 and another $500 to the Capitol architect to compensate for damage to the building.” [even though she herself did no violence or vandalism] And it turns out the judge (Christopher Cooper) who gave the sentence was a former classmate of hers- and she remembers him asking her on a date one time which she declined was he still holding a grudge about that? Should he have recused himself? Anyways, she starts her sentence soon. She has no criminal record. She committed no violence. And they put her in FDC Miami- which is NOT a “country club prison.” Prayers for Simone Gold.
Wednesday July 20 2022 9am St. Ignatius again- the priests have a new “thing” – at the beginning of the mass they say “nice to see some familiar faces “ and seem to make an intentional effort to differentiate between the regulars and the visitors. Not sure what this is all about. Two days in a row now. Two different priests. This priest today mentions his previous time in “Hollywood”- not sure what church. Don’t remember him from there. After mass I go to DeYoung Museum it’s been many years park on “Nancy Pelosi Drive” (ugg) and enjoy the museum for a little while. Would have gone to Science museum too-across the way- but they still require the vaccine. I won’t get the vaccine. No way. Nope. Never. I know better. Back over to Crissy Field. Walk to the presidio and the brand new state park: Tunnel Tops nice enough good view of Golden Gate, not far from Disney Museum. Lots of play activities for kids. Definitely designed mostly for kids and families. After Tunnel Tops I take a swim at Crissy Beach the only one- bare back as usual- it doesn’t feel cold at all. The water may be warmer than the air. Even a few waves –almost able to body surf. There’s an artist with a little dog –selling little postcard size paintings - Lady parked next to me missed an evangelical opportunity. Forgive me
Lord. I’ll do better next time with Your help. I hope. Also hiked down the west side of GG Bridge- the southwest side to be exactfirst time doing that– kind of fun– unique view. Don’t waste your money on Papermate InkJoy pens they run out of ink almost immediately. This ends my San Francisco chapter leaving SF over the GG Bridge foggy-. I notice it will be 25 degrees warmer in Sacramento– HOT.
Thursday July 21 2022 Now at Walmart #1 in Dixon- after shopping for an hour they’re credit card machine is down so I can’t make the purchase. I will remember this. Now at Walmart #2 in Sacramento- works this time. Next day the system is down again. What’s going on? Can you imagine what will happen if there is a long term outage for credit card processing? Could be disastrous so many things we use credit cards for. Found gas station selling regular for $5.09 – that’s nice. Cash only. And E85 for $3.89 Total about $70 and average per gallon about $4.38. Getting better. 10am parked at Cal State Fairgrounds bought entrance ticket but so hot went back out to car- also concerned about parking there noticing broken glass when I got out of my car (ie window glass from a “Smash and grab.” Went to nearby library this is a rough area. Interesting cast of characters come in and out of the library as I work on the computer adding to New Audio Bible. And Lots of homeless in this area of Sacramento. Prayers4. I intentionally came to Sacramento and the fair today because I wanted to see Guess Who- a 60’s rock band still playing (not all original members) from Canada they have some good “oldie goldies” – but realize I better pay for parking too given the amount of break-ins happening. $15 for parking is worth the peace of mind. As I pulled into the fairgrounds parking lot a cop parked nearby facing me straight on not sure if he was surveilling me or just happenstance. I was eating a few almonds and getting ready to go into the fairgrounds, but decided to go ask him if it was safe parking here even inside the fairgrounds parking lot. There’s NO FENCE
keeping people out. I saunter over to his police vehicle the window is shut it’s obvious I am trying to talk to him but for a few seconds the door and window remains shut. I give him space –several feet from the door. Then suddenly he jumps out of the car and slams the door. Seems a bit odd. Why not just open the window. I’m dressed in shorts & a t-shirt nothing bulky clearly no weapons. So he jumps out– and says hello- I back up a bit- I hear a dog barking in the back of his squad car. I ask him if there’s been break-ins and he said “There were 7 on opening day” and since then only 1. Seven on opening day? Good grief. I ask him if they patrol the lot and he says they try and that it’s probably safe now. I hope so. Say thanks. Give him a thumbs up. Walk inside the fairgrounds. Strangely almost immediately as I enter the fairgrounds 1 of my 2 phone cams stops working. The good one that I use mostly for photography. Bizarre. Nothing gets it working again. SO I use the other cam one of the worst phone cams in the world. Meanwhile I send a message to Linda re the news about Biden having tested positive for Covid despite being vaccinated and double boosted. Her response surprised me. I think she actually believes in the vaccine. She tries to shrug it off as a new version of covid. So they need a new vaccine or booster for every new strain of covid? It will always be mutating. Just like the flu every year. They’re in Michigan right now maybe the final time they said. Inside the cattle barn at the fair the water mister keeps them cool. Guy on electric saxophone. This is the California State Fair by the way last time I was here same location but it was the Sacramento County Fair. The state fair is bigger with more events. Some exhibits include some old video game machines some of the originals that I used to play like Asteroids, Pacman, & Donkey Kong. And the Zuzu acrobats– are these the same ones I remember from San Diego Safari Park? They do similar activities including limbo. And there’s a hypnotist Tina Marie. She’s pretty good. I’m always amazed at how susceptible some people are to being hypnotized. Also motorcycles jumping–very close to the overhead tram-. And the “Greatest Showman” horse show kind of amateur. Good juggler. And finally what I
came to see: “The Guess Who” band one original member -the drummer.
Friday July 22 2022 black eye is healing well. No more lightheadedness. Tried to go to St. Philomena church for mass in the morning. Their website says 815am- but there was nobody there all doors locked. Go back to Walmart– their credit card processing was down again. What’s going on? To Crocker Art Museum- wow– they added a new addition in 2010- beautiful modern update but also incorporated the historic old building into it very nicely done- I haven’t been here in decades. Prayers for the Bad Axis too. Leaving Crocker- I notice my check engine light is on. I was waiting for it to happen. They said it might-. I expect it is for “lean bank” (code 0701) -- will check for sure later. Meanwhile I go to Walmart #3 and everything finally works! But this Walmart does NOT sell raisins? I specifically asked a clerk “where are the raisins? “ And she said “We don’t sell raisins?” I said “You mean you are out of them or don’t sell them ever?” She said “We don’t sell them. IT’s weird. I don’t know why.” What’s up with that? This is raisin country- down south a little ways (San Joaquin Valley, Central Valley, Fresno area etc.). After the Walmart I went to the nearby Sacramento library to get relief from the heat worked on Audio Bible. One guy coughing loudly. Leaving library found packet of papers. Brought them back inside for their lost and found. Onward thru Woodland– stopped at Auto Zone confirmed code was indeed 0701 lean bank. Should go off when I put more regular gas in and indeed it does the next day. On highway 16 small towns heading towards Ukiah. Past Clear Lake mid day still hot not a single boat or swimmer out there– turns out this lake is infected with some sort of algae that is dangerous for human contact. Very sad. It’s been this way for years now. All these people who bought houses on the lake can’t really enjoy the lake anymore. Nearby Blue Lakes is much better. Stop in at self-serve car wash on west side of Clear Lake – interesting moment there. I will never forget. Now at Blue Lakes – take a swim–there’s a rope swing too it’s almost 8pm now so it’s emptying out
-people leaving as I’m arriving. Water feels so good and refreshing. Make it to Ukiah !
7/23/22 Saturday Buddhist temple a tourist attraction closed. Picked up a few things at Walmart. Drove back thru Ukiah again. Saw the gas station built out of a redwood tree. Made it to the Coyote Casino gas station– owned by the Indian reservation I think. Cheapest gas in the area at $5.34. No E85 anywhere in this part of California. Total $53.99. Also put some free air in one tire that looked a bit low. Passed by Mendocino College. Now on Orr Springs road towards the coast - and cooler weather. This is a nice drive- not many cars. There’s also a grove of redwoods called Montgomery Reserve that people stop at to walk around- nothing special compared to some that are coming up further north. There was a car in the parking lot that said “San Francisco Taxi” on it. A family got out of it. Did they really hire a taxi to take them here? Or is this one of those taxis that people buy used? But usually they take all the markings off the car when sold. That would be a big fare from SF. Hair pin turns here & there. Getting near the coast. Here’s the Mendocino Airport. As I come to the main road I am exactly at a place called Van Damme Beach State Park. Don’t know anything about it. Cool & gray here, but I see lots of kayakers out there. Pull in next to a green Colorado van with tons of stickers all over it with the various destinations they’ve been to they’ve been around. No waves. I see a sign talking about Abalones. I just want to rest.
But after a while I get up the gumption to consider snorkeling here even though I don’t have a wetsuit. I snorkeled Monterey 2 weeks ago. How much colder can it be here? I ask a guy pulling a wetsuit off how cold it is & if there’s good visibility he says about 50 maybe 51…says there’s a cave down at the far end water is more clear too. That’s all I need to know. I grab my gear and walk to the far north end of the beach. Dip my feet in and it is numbing. Wow. Can I do it? This will be the coldest I’ve ever been in. I wade around for a while to allow my legs to adapt. I’ve read about cold water
swimming and the most dangerous aspect is the initial entry shock. I’ve learned that for me it’s best to slowly acclimate before going all the way in (if I haven’t been in cold water for a while). So I take my time. Eventually I pull out my fins & mask & get ready for full entry but first I take time to do my stretches. Finally I put everything on and enter the water ahh- its cold but no shock- I start swimming. I keep my hands above water at first– for some reason my hands have the most difficult time adjusting to cold water. Maybe I should at least get some gloves. (I used to use a neoprene hoody but that disappeared one time when I was at Corona Del Mar. Will have to buy another one of those too sometime). So I snorkel out a ways and start seeing starfish– not the giant ones like at Monterey. Suddenly I hear laughter it’s a gal on a kayak. She exclaims “Don’t you have a wetsuit?” I don’t want to go into my purist philosophy of swimming without one. SO I just say “No” and smile. Then she says “Are you catching starfish?” Huh? Catching starfish? No. Just looking at a few of them. Actually hoping to find a few abalone shells. She says she saw some. I haven’t seen any yet. I wave and keep going. Then I come around in a circle around a rock and there she is again pointing at glittering abalone shell. But she won’t go in the water to get it so I swim down and pick it up for her and hand it to her.
I think this is her very first one– she seemed very excited. I tell her there’s lots of live ones below her too- she thinks she sees them pointing at the red patches below but that’s actually red kelp. Yes these are “red abalones” and do have a reddish hue on the outside of their shell but only if you wipe away the moss or lichen growing on most of them. They look brownish green on top– it’s not easy to see them even below the water with a mask you can’t see them at all from above the water unless they are an empty shell turned upward with their silverish interior glittering. She asks me “Aren’t they endangered?” Thinking I plan to take the live ones. I say “You’re not allowed to take them, but you can look at them.” You can’t really pull them off the rocks they are clinging to anyways
just like a starfish who is firmly attached. Virtually impossible. I think the abalone hunters where it is legal to hunt, use a bar to pry them off. I’m getting cold so I tell the gal I’m going in. She thanks me effusively for the abalone. I make it back to shore and my car. I see her coming back towards shore as I’m leaving the parking lot. She was the one parked next to me- a brave gal if she’s all alonegoing to all these different places. Or maybe she has a friend with her. Not sure. Heading north along the coast I come to Big River Beach in Mendocino. By the way, a gas station near here is selling regular for $9.35 per gallon. Wow. Lots of kayakers in the river. People on the shore. A few swimmers & waders. Probably not as cold as the ocean. And the sun comes out. I search my phone for other good snorkel / dive spots near Mendo Fort Bragg. Nearby Mackericcher state park is mentioned as one so I head that way-. Found it. No fee. First I take a hike and see the different spots. It’s a beautiful area. I don’t see other divers or snorkelers. But I’m not dissuaded. I grab my gear and head out towards what looked like a promising area with an easy entry near Laguna Point. Ahh. The cold again. But easier this time since I was already in a few hours ago. Your body is more ready. The more you do it, the easier it gets. Just like exercise. I see abalones here and there but no empty shells. Some starfish. Fairly good visibility. Enjoyed it. That’s enough for the day. I hike a little farther down the way and then head back to central Fort Bragg.
Sunday July 24 2022 Last time I was here in Fort Bragg it happened to fall on a Sunday morning as well. I remember going to the Presbyterian church. Today I start out at the Catholic church at 8am, then to the Lutheran at 9am -and left early -leaving an offering envelope on the pew seat with a few dollars in it there was an elderly lady next to me and I pointed to it asking her to drop it in the plate for me- she sort of nodded.. whatever. Feels good to give a little bit. From there I go down by the water’s edge– near the trestle– you can walk over it now- that may be a new thing– not sure and there’s some trails along the bluff. Nice views. Some locals
walking. Some of the locals around here are “tough cookies” or try to act that way anyways. From there I go over to the 1st Baptist church for the 11am service. This is a little more lively service– the pastor really putting some energy into his sermon. Over-the-top. After that I go to glass beach and look around hike some parts scouting out snorkeling spots. I wasn’t planning on going again today- after twice yesterday in different spots. But why not? I feel good. SO I go back to my car and grab my stuff and come back to a quiet little cove away from the tourists thinking I will be alone here. Stretch a bit. Then make my way slowly into the water not too slowly. Suddenly you’re all in. you can’t drag out the entry too long. And almost immediately I find an empty abalone shell- the bright flash of the inner side caught my eye. I pick it up and keep going exploring different parts- & there was another, and shortly later, another. That’s 3 and counting. I probably could have found more but that was enough for now. Went back to shore. There was a daughter & mom near my towel –seemingly looking for good glass bits to keep. The teen or young lady ignored me so much so that it felt offensive. There I was coming out of the ice cold water you would think she would express some astonishment but she acted as if she didn’t even know I was there. It felt rude. Not even a hello or a glance of acknowledgment. SO I grabbed my towel and dried off. Then the mother came and started up a conversation. She also tried to be a little “too cool” about how cold the water was– as if it was just another swim. In fact she said “Did you just come in from a swim?” Ahh. Yes. Obviously. Actually snorkeling. Does she know HOW COLD it is or is she playing dump. You see after one exits cold water sometimes there can be a significant “cool down” that can be dangerous if not handled properly. It’s called the “After drop.” Here is what the experts say: “After drop is the phenomenon of your body temperature continue to drop even after you get out of cold water and into a warmer environment – so that you feel colder 10 or 40 minutes after you exit than you did in the water. When you swim, your body shuts down circulation to your skin, pooling warm blood in your core.”
Anyways, fortunately I was not feeling an after drop. I felt fine. SO I engaged in conversation with her. She told me they vacation here every year, etc. She mentioned an Alaska cruise. Something about wanting to go to Canada but not sure about crossing border now. She saw the abalones I had brought back with me. I asked her if she would like one. She said “Sure, if you’re sharing.” I wonder if tourists would buy these for a few bucks – maybe, but there’s not enough to collect to start a business. Supposedly there’s an abalone farm somewhere around Santa Cruz I wonder what they do with all the shells the business is primarily for the abalone meat. Whatever the case may be, abalone shell is definitely cool to have, but it’s not so rare that they sell for a lot of money. And it’s only really cool if you find it yourself. Our conversation ended. I’m still doing windshield wiper evangelism everywhere I go! Praise the Lord. I do some on the way back to my car. Now I actually AM feeling cold– maybe the after drop. I turn my car heater on and let it warm me up for a while. Found a place to refill my water bottles for 40 cents each. Bird on top of my car. Drop a quarter. Man sits by the water refill. I empty my garbage into the trash can. Another guy walks by and says “hey” and grabs something off the ledge nearby then he disappears what was that all about? Was that like a drug pickup or something? There’s some serious drug and addiction issues in some of these northern Cal areas. Whatever. It’s above my pay grade. And I don’t do drugs. But it seems like everywhere I go when I stop and pull in somewhere etc there tends to be what I call a “confluence.” Always seems like strange merging of people and activities precisely when I pull in. Like I will pull into a place that is normally quiet and empty and suddenly there will be a flurry of activity of people arriving or leaving etc. And a few minutes later it will be quiet again. This happens over and over different times & places. I’m going to start keeping precise track of these “confluences”-- like I do with “synchronicities.” Still foggy.
Monday July 25 2022 Leaving Fort Bragg I drive down Ocean View Ave and leave a note in the mailbox for my “Aunt Karen” 857amshe’s actually a half-aunt I think to be precise- kind of lost touch over the years. We used to visit her when we were kids. Still try to drop a note or even a gift one time when I pass thru Fort Bragg which is only every few years. Hope she’s well. Now passing by Seaside Beach at 9am. Is there a new preserve here too? My check engine light is OFF again. Predicted that. Now the city of Newport CA 904 am. Prayers 4 KBMD, mission vehicle, America, etc City of Westport 915am, Abalone Point 918 am, Howard Creek, Juan Creek 922 am , Redwood Grove 934 am, small gravel parking lot empty, This stretch of highway is kind of like Big Sur but less elevation. Hale’s Grove 951am. A plundered car at 10:02 - looked like it almost went off the edge but a tree stopped it. Then it got stripped of everything valuable. Good grief. You don’t expect that out here. 95.3fm KOZT. South fork Eel River. City of Legget 10:18 am– and a drive-thru tree here. But $15 fee to do it. NO thanks. Standish Hickey 1024. Taber Trail. The “world famous tree house” is now closed. 10:42am. It’s a big redwood with a small door built into the bottom of it. Now near Confusion Hill & totem pole. I see a nice looking water hole from the highway and take the next exit to find it. There’s a trail going down to the water. I grab my snorkel gear. This is another section of the Eel River in Cooks Valley. Nice & clear- and not as cold as the ocean. See a few small fish underwater. 11 to noon. As I am leaving two gals pull up to go swimming. Memorable moment.
Back on the road I notice there’s a Hindu monastic “retreat center” called “krishnalaya” - wonder what that’s all about. “Hare Hare Krishna Krishna? Now passing by the “grandfather tree.” They say the tree is over 1800 years old. And 24 foot in diameter. 12:19pm. Benbow Lake $8 fee? Really? Near the Benbow Historic Inn. The inn looks nice but there doesn’t seem to be much water in this stretch of the river–nor a lake. AM I missing something? On the radio something about “National Pro-life Bridge Day.” Now we
begin the Avenue of the Giants from the southern end 130pm. Here’s Chimney Tree wow- this one also has a door in it like the World Famous Tree House– but this one is open and you can walk in right next to a creek. Free. Restaurant next to it. I guess that was Ohman Creek. Now thru the City of Miranda 137pm, And Here’s Bolling Grove at 2pm- nice. A long caravan of vintage VW vans passes by going south. That looks fun. I wonder if my brother Steve still has his VW van. Williams Grove at 208pm. Garden Club Grove 210pm. City of Burlington 215pm. & campground. Short excursion on river beach where cars are allowed. Looks to hot and not enough water in the creek. Founders Grove at 230pm walk around a little. Didn’t take the formal trail like all the tourists were doing. Found a nice branch of redwood to keep. Will give it to JImLIn. Now over to the Rockefeller Grove– a 4 mile drive off the main loop that lessens the tourist traffic. This is one of my favorite spots in this part of the CA redwoods (although my most favorite is near Crescent City & the Smith River some real gems- will mention those more later). So I take the “Loop Trail” at Rockefeller but feel like I am not looping back did I miss something? SO I walk off trail to the creek- and wade back towards the parking lot. Not far. Water very shallow. There’s a huge fallen redwood tree over the creek by the parking lot but I don’t see anybody walk over it not even the kids. Shameful. IT’s as wide as a sidewalk. Kids should love walking over it. Are overly-protective parents saying no? I walk over it anyways. I guess I’m a big kid. There’s also the officially named “Giant Tree” here- which is pretty impressive. Don’t see any stats on the sign though. Online it says it is 16.9 feet wide & 354 feet high (and 53 feet circumference). The highest redwood in the world as best as anybody knows is the Hyperion Tree at 379 feet. And while random redwoods can grow in various parts of the world- the only significant redwood groves are in California and Oregon.
I’ve been enjoying grilled cheese on sour dough bread lately it’s delicious. Also at Rockefeller was another fallen tree over the creek that new trees were growing upward out of. Wow. Great time at Rockefeller (except for one “glare” person I passed on the trail). Those people who glare & stare intently are very disconcerting. Prayers4 the creepy people. There was also a young maybe 20something white guy with tattoos in the creek with a younger black gal - apparently a girlfriend– and her mom. That was odd too. Not so much the racial difference but the age difference. Also did some of my prayers as I walked thru Rockefeller & Founders. Praise. Thanks. Love. Magnify. Unify. Glorify. And prayers for young people – to be allowed to take small risks– and parents to allow them you can’t learn to fly if you don’t spread your wings. Sign says “Dyerville used to be here” I remember more water in the river by Ave of Giants last time. Now it seems like a small stream. Here’s Arbor Day Grove 443 pm. Allen Grove 444pm. SO many groves named for different people. Donors? City of Redcrest 450pm big colorful sign here. And the Immortal Tree at453 - I remember this place being crowded last time I was here. Now it’s empty. There’s a gift shop too. Found this about it later: “An attraction with a name like "Immortal Tree" is just asking for trouble. Still, this almost 1,000-year-old redwood has survived lightning, fire, floods, and ax-happy junior Bunyans.” https://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/21677
And this ends the Avenue of the Giants. I’ve probably done it 5 or 6 times in my life now. Maybe once every 10 years I pass thru. I come up this way more often than that but always seem to take different routes. Now City of Fortuna 513 pm, And Ferndale 520pm. I remember all these places & some of their perpetual eye-catching tourist stuff. So Monday was all day from Fort Bragg to Eurekaand numerous pictures and videos. Tuesday July 26 2022 730am St. Joseph mass in Eureka. Priest from India. Mostly white parishioners (make that all of them). 10am I go to the sequoia zoo pricey fee $25 for such a small zoo but the sky walk is exceptional.
And I got a discount! cool red panda. Also the otters looked happy and active, 1220. It’s Tuesday so it’s time for a discount movie review or as I call it #PrayTheMovies: The one getting the buzz now is called “Nope” by Jordan Peele best known for “Get Out.” He’s a black director who usually uses black actors, and this one is no different. A “Monkeys Paw Production” (which is a short story I’ve read). (Production assistant is Ruth DeJong) Perfunctory clerk at theatre. Broken lamp. Living room? That was a flashback to the monkey going crazy. It will be shown again later. Although in my opinion it is a strange departure from the main theme. Maybe the symbolism will dawn on me more later. Now the Bible verse Nahum 3.6 “ I will cast abominable filth upon you, make you vile, and make you a spectacle.” Basically, Nineveh arrogantly chews people up and spits them out. So, Nahum says, God will do the same to Nineveh. “ Jordan Peele’s Nope, explained - Vox. More of the monkey. Body down. Now flash forward to a horse farm. Black horse trainer feeding horses hay. And the elderly father is there on a horse. Strange noises in the sky. Horse starts moving. Father falls off. Son rushes father to hospital. The Father dies. Not sure what actually happened. They just dismiss it as a health problem. The horse trainer’s name is OJ (Otis Jr) & he has a sister a live wire with attitude. White horse named ‘Ghost’. The horse trainer is an ancestor of one of the first black Hollywood horse trainers, or should I say the first Hollywood horse trainer was black? “Haywood’s Hollywood horses” is the name of the business.
Is there such thing as a “bad miracle?” Nope. He replies. They have a scene at Frys Electronics in Burbank (which is now closed). The Frys clerk becomes a character in the film. Somebody notices that one specific cloud hasn’t moved in several days. Now they flash back again to the 1998 movie set re Gordie the chimp who went crazy on the movie set and killed a person or 2. But an Asian-American kid survived, and now he’s involved as an adult in a Hollywood ranch of sorts that to whom Haywood provides horses (I think). Why the “Jesus lizard’ shirt? Wrapped self in barb wire to get spit out by the
UFO. Don’t look at the UFO? Guy from TMZ shows up on motorcycle. END REVIEW. Now at Samoa Jetty lots of solitude here. Kind of futuristic blocks of concrete dropped here-called tetra pods: “A Tetrapod is a form of wave-dissipating concrete block used to prevent erosion caused by weather and longshore drift, primarily to enforce coastal structures such as seawalls and breakwaters.” Large raptor guarding nest at end of jetty.
Wednesday July 27 2022 heading north. Here’s the Carson Mansion (guy glared at me as I passed by turned around in “private driveway.” Here’s Cal Poly Humboldt. And the Mad River. And here’s City of Blue Lake where I get gas at the casino gas station a little lower price at $5.30, total of $71 for 13.3 gallons. 500 mile fuel range. Saved about $5.20. No E85 sold in this part of California (or Oregon) nothing along the coast. City of McKinleyville and the “World’s Tallest Totem Pole” at 160 feet 915 am. That’s always cool to see again. Worker nearby however rolls his eyes as I take pictures of it. City of Clam Beach 922 am. And here’s Trinidad Bay- it’s picturesque but there’s a jerk working at the boat launch winch. I walk the pier and see literally 1000’s of colorful starfish clinging to the nearby rock. Mostly orange & red. It’s low tide. Also a dead bird that looked like a decoy duck on what they call “boat launch beach.” I had to look a little closer to make sure it was real, albeit dead.
I hiked up to the Trinidad lighthouse but you cannot actually see the lighthouse (although they have a small replica by the parking lot). They only open the path to the lighthouse one Saturday every month. But it’s a nice loop hike with good views. There’s a group of junior lifeguards doing some drills on the beach. One surfer. I was considering taking a swim- went down to the water’s edge and waded then I decided to go snorkeling on the other side instead. Drove back over there. Went thru the loop to turn around–encountered the jerk. No details now. Parked my vehicle. Walked down to the beach and noticed a black cell phone on the sand. I
picked it up & was looking at it for a few seconds- it was on - & not locked. I didn’t even need to tap twice or anything- the screen was on & open to some stuff– wasn’t sure what I should do with it– when suddenly the phone rang. This was like a bad movie. What next? I decide to answer it & said ‘hello” and somebody said “Mitch?” At first I played along and said “Hey how ya doing? Who is this?” The guy says “This is Dave.” I was thinking about saying “I don’t know any Dave’... And prank him. But then I said “I just found this phone on the beach…” The guy said “Oh ok. Hold On. He’s coming to get it...” I said “I will leave it on this stump of wood” Apparently they knew where he left it. Then I went in the water. A few minutes later I see a guy searching around the stump. He found the phone. I pop out of the water “Is that your phone” I yell. He says “Yeah. Thanks.” I wave. Felt good to help him out. He was relieved and thankful. They probably weren’t sure if I was going to take off with his nice I-phone or actually leave it there. I make a habit of doing what is right in such cases. Not everybody does. Not much to see underwater here not much visibility. Back to my car, moving onward. Here’s the Big Tree Rest Area 1226. Big Lagoon. Dry Lagoon. Helicopter on the ground. And here’s Stone Lagoon one of my favorite spots- body surfed here later in the day. Swam here a few years ago (but in the lagoon, not the ocean). Today there were some vintage sailboats in the lagoon. Made a nice picture. And here’s Orick- often where the herd of elk hang out and yes indeed–here they are, some lying down- lots of young ones. Others grazing. Right along the road. 1:10 pm. I go up to Lady Bird Grove - a few stare people in the parking lot. Mostly full as usual. Highly popular spot.
Back to Stone Lagoon 215 to body surf- it was great. Cold but great. The sand was very hot. Had to run over it. Gal surfing lost her board it floated towards me. Seal popped up observing as she drifted as if the seal was concerned about her. She made it safely back to shore. Back towards Orick - the elk had crossed the road–or were in the process of crossing. Where’s the skunk cabbage trail?
Turn on Davison Road Trillium Falls trailhead. Did that once some time ago. Drove up Davison Road a ways observing the magnificent trees. This goes all the way to Gold Bluff Beach– but now a permit is required. I didn’t want to go that far anyways. Also passed by Trees of Mystery and their famous gigantic Paul Bunyan & Babe carved out of wood 455. Onward past the Davison turnoff I come to Drury Scenic Parkway– but don’t take the road this time. Onward Yurok Tribe gas station– last time I hear a young native- American was showing off his brand new Ferrari. He even asked me if I wanted to buy it? He persisted saying “How much will you give me?” I finally said “I don’t even know what I would do with a Ferrari. I’ll take it if you want to give it to me though.” He laughed. Here’s the Yurok Loop Trail, a nice 1.5 mile hike above the beach and you can also go down to the beach and there’s some impressive piles of giant driftwood. It’s also part of the coastal trail which would be fun to do sometime as well. But that’s 8 miles RT. Made it to Crescent City–always enjoy it here.
Thursday July 28 2022 at Crescent City Library. I hear the librarian with striped stockings talking to a patron about cannabis. It’s become normalized. Start the day at the Del Norte Library completed dictation composition - 10 to 1. Then over to the Smith River near Craig’s Creek Trail this is the PLACE TO BE on a sunny summer day. Several rock jumping places into the crystal clear river. Also a rope swing attached to a high bridge. I did both rock jumps the 2nd I believe is the highest I’ve ever done. The trick is to NOT THINK ABOUT IT for too long. I see young people getting up to the top and then they start thinking about it. And the more they think about it, the less likely they are to actually jump. They do need to be pushed off, but not by me. The water is plenty deep. As long as you know how to swim there’s barely any chance of injury at this height even though it seems high. If you keep going higher then YES there is more chance of injury. But this level- NO. The worse that could happen is if you leave your arms dangling out when you hit the water you will get STUNG and maybe have a red
mark for a while. Also did some snorkeling. And hiked a ways up the Craig’s Creek trail but it does not actually offer river views along the way– so it was a little disappointing. Lots of elevation too. Good workout.
After the river fun I took Howland Hill Road back towards the city. This is a historic road that goes thru the Stout Grove and alongside a few other epic groves of redwood trees. I’ve already explored Stout Grove on a previous trip. This time I pull off and hike to Grove of Titans - about a half mile each way and definitely worth itsome incredible specimens of redwood. This trail continues on the popular Mills Creek hike but at the moment it is closed for trail repair. Looks like it’s been closed for a while. Made some nice redwood videos. One thing I realized as I hike thru the redwoods was that there were NO BIRDS no birds whistling or flying etc. Later I looked it up and apparently the redwoods are too dark and dense for some wildlife.
Friday the 29th of July 2022 I take the short walk to the Crescent City lighthouse “battery point” around 7am. Somebody actually lives in the lighthouse. But tourists are allowed to explore around it outside during day hours. Didn’t see anybody there. After the lighthouse I went out to the jetty- a 2mile walk RT- they have those futuristic tetrapods at the end of it like the one at Samoa. A fellow came out towards me on his bike with a fishing pole as I was walking back he looked like Shaquille O’Neal. It’s overcast again this morning. The sun seems to be coming out later in the day lately. On the road again, here’s the Del Norte Airport a passenger plane about to take off. Here’s the Walmart. Do a little shopping. Onward, here’s Fort Dick 955am. 105.9 is a good radio station in Crescent City. Here’s Earl Lake looked at a property for sale here last time. #PrayTheNews: flooding in Kentucky has left 15 or more dead. Here’s a HUGE PRISON– turns out to be the infamous Pelican Bay Prison– Charles Manson was here for a while. I always do video evangelism as I pass by prisons & jails. Managed to do so this time
as well. Pray for prisoners. It’s an imperative. This is my way of doing “prison ministry.” Here’s the City of Smith River 10:12.
Entering Oregon 10:19 AM. Now the City of Chetco 1025 am, now Brookings 1026, Harris Beach 1122, Lone Ranch (full) 1142, House Rock 1145, Whales Head 1148, Indian Sands 1150, Bruce’s Bones Creek, Thomas Creek Bridge (highest bridge in Oregon?) Horse Prairie Creek 1155, Natural Bridge 1156, Wridge Creek 1157, Miller Creek 1158, Arch Rock 1159. This stretch is sort of like a Big Sur but without as much elevation and also trees block the view so you have to pullout at the various parks & waysides to see the ocean and coastline. I’ve hiked a few of these parks in previous trips. Here’s the Pistol River at high noon. Myers Creek, Cape Sebastian 12:10, Kissing Rock 12:19 (Gold Beach), City of Gold Beach, And I stop here to attend the Curry County Fair (anytime I see a county fair in progress wherever I am I try to make a point of attending. It gives me a familiarity with the people next time around– so it’s kind of like pre-evangelism). It’ costs $7 bucks admission. Saw the various cattle and animals on display. There was also an archery contest in progress but it was too full to sit or even stand. I watched a magic show for a while. There were various booths one handing out Gideon Pocket Bibles. … onward here is Ophir Beach 246. , and Sisters Rock 252pm - kind of like a small Morro Rock Beach. Prehistoric gardens. Arizona Beach 253, Humbug Mt., take a nap from 3 to 4 pm.
#PrayTheNews: more about the Kentucky floods. Also in ST. Louis. Here’s the City of Port Orford 4pm. And Battle Rock. Cape Blanco I took the 6 mile road to see the lighthouse but it was SO FOGGYcouldn’t see anything from the closest point you could drive to didn’t want to walk the extra mile in the cold gray fog. Also saw the Hughes House 430 which was built in 1860. Very windy out here too. Hard to believe it’s 104 degrees in Medford right now. Here’s the Sixes River 442. Never forget: “Get outta my area.” God’s will be done. Karma cycles. Flores Lake is supposed to be good. City of
Langlois 453pm. Here’s the Safari Park but it’s 5pm- they just closed. Huge wood fence around it. People stare as I pull the parking lot. Oregon people seem to stare more than usual. And you never know what kind of stare it is unless you break the ice- which is always risky. Word of the day: “Confluence.” Onward. Here’s Devi’s Kitchen 515pm. A beach with rocks. Apparently it’s named this because of its “fertile waters” - all the food chain feeding on one another. So why not God’s Kitchen? Here’s Bradley Lake ramp 530. One fisherman. Face Rock or Cathedral Rock. IT’s very foggy & cool. Stranded in mist. City of Bandon cool old town 545 550 “Let’s Go Bandon” coquille lighthouse. Coquille 606pm. & Bullards Beach. Song by Mr Mister called “Kurie Eliason” – heard this song so many times didn’t realize that it means “Lord have mercy” - one of the catholic liturgical refrains. A secular rock song that is actually Catholic/Christian albeit probably goes right over the heads of most people. Yoakam Point ½ mile round trip nice view. Sunset Bay State Park. The cove is calm 708pm, young kid swimming. Every new beach park is called a state park in Oregon. And most are free. Shore Acres is another state park and one of the few with a fee (to park). They have a botanical garden as well. 714. And here’s Simpson Reef overlook 713. And finally at the end of the drive is Arago State Park (north & south). Lots of British Columbia vehicles here. Are people from Oregon called Oregono’s (Oregano?), or Oregonians? Anyways I wonder if they have traded mindful growth and meaningful life challenges for too much simplicity? Are they a little retarded? Just saying.
Saturday July 30 North Bend Library review. They apparently saw me arrive before it opened and noticed my out-of-state plate– so they were “ready” for me when I walked in. They had a category in mind. That’s no fun. I used the computer and got out. Got 14.7 gallons of gas. $75 total. $5.09 per gallon. Saw deer by Ferry Park. Then I went over to the Coos Bay Library. Their alpha security guard was even worse than over at North Bend, albeit the young man at the desk was helpful and non- presumptuous. I worked on
computer dictation for 90 minutes then returned to my vehicle trying to avoid the security guy. I got in my car and then I did some organization inside – and then I noticed the security guy was pretending to be hanging out by his own personal vehicle but it was obvious he was watching me. Waiting for me to leave. It felt like harassment. Didn’t like it. And later left a review expressing my feelings about it. Hopefully it will reach a supervisor. Back on the road I was planning to go to the Coos Bay County Fair (per my ministry objectives) -- albeit it’s actually NOT in the city of Coos Bay but out at the much smaller City of Myrtle Point- about 25 miles away- not sure why they have it there. Nonetheless nice drivepast the Coos Bay Speedway. They have a race tonight too. Arrived at the fair, paid the $10 admission fee. Saw the various requisite animals on display at any county fair. Bunnies, horses, sheep, longhorn steers, chickens, roosters, pigs, etc. And a stage for amateur musicians. Went thru various other buildings and the different displays. Then back to my car around 430– waiting to return later for the evening rodeo the big event. And around 630 I did so and was surprised to see the grandstands were already full. Wow. Popular event. Literally no room remaining to squeeze it. They need a bigger venue. So I went over to a place where I could sort of see the arena from afar. Watched a while but it actually did not look very exciting they started with some sort of roping event relatively boring. So I left early. I’ve seen more than enough rodeos in my life to quench my thirst. For many years attended them at OC Fair and at San Diego Fair among others. Did a little evangelism as I walked to my car. That’s the MAIN POINT! Back on the road, passed by Johnson Pond & Coquille River. Also the House of Confusion – what’s that?
#PrayTheNews: Rest-in-Peace Bill Russell - you could make an argument for him as the GOAT (greatest of all time). He had 11 championship rings in 13 seasons as a Celtic. That’s astounding. That’s more than Jordon, LeBron, Kobe, and Magic. Sunday July 31 2022 830 am Santa Monica Catholic was decent. Good priest.
Then I searched for Coast Life Church but when I found it it was too small it would make me feel under a spotlight which I do not want. So I went back out to the Sunset Bay area– actually the Arago SP- walked down to the northern beach and did a brief snorkel but the water was too murky. Explored some of the tide pools on foot for a while. Back to car. Later back on foot noticed a better bay to the south. And went down that way with my snorkel gear. Arriving on the beach I noticed a large dead mammal– almost large enough to be a baby whale too large for a seal I thought maybe a large sea lion it was obviously decomposing for a while had a reddish hue. A few birds were pecking on it. Put my gear on and waded into the water– much more clear here– enjoyed it. Saw some big starfish & a few other colorful sea creatures. Then explored the area on foot some cool places nooks & crannies. Made my way back to the carrested & warmed up. Ate some lunch. Finally left Cape Arago area went back down the road- noticed an interesting trail towards Norton Gulch. Parked & hiked – turned out to be very cool- and a challenging area that required the use of a rope and if you slipped would be very injurious if not deadly. But I made it and explored more out on a big rock. Back on the trail passed 2 meanies - why are people mean or angry when they hike? Defeats the point doesn’t it? Went back up to Cape Arago and hiked the south trail which is just a trail down to a beach I hadn’t noticed earlier. Passed a gal with a Montfort shirt- where’s Montfort? She seemed snooty. Didn’t stay long. Back to car. Here’s Bastendorff Beach. Some surfers. The sun finally comes out. I sit and watch for a while. Family arrives with boogie boards- all of them go in the water without wetsuits & stayed in a long time. One thing being chubby does help: cold water swimming.
Monday August 1 Tried calling DPSS- long wait- try again later. Called about my B Flower parking citation. They actually process the appeal in Tustin- bizarre. So I speak to a person in Tustin about a parking citation in Bellflower. They tell me my initial appeal was denied but that I can appeal again in writing I say “it sounds like
they rubber stamp denied it”-- the person on the phone says “Oh no. They read it.” I ask the name of the person who denied the appeal. And she tells me it is “anonymous.” I exclaim “What a freakin joke” and hang up. It’s so damn frustrating with these bureaucracies who refuse to have any real accountability so much so that they have a service in Tustin to handle the appeals and payments. Give me a break. They’re so lazy and want no accountability. Just big fat cats robbing taxpayers of their money. If I legitimately make a mistake about parking I will pay it but in this case the signs are contradictory and lead to confusion and misunderstanding. There are eight “no parking” signs on Beach Street in Bellflower in the block by St. Bernard Church. I parked there on a Friday for morning mass. Six of the eight signs say “no Parking Sat or Sun.” I parked directly in front of one of these signs. Then I went to church. When I came out I had a $57 citation. I walked the block and noticed that two of the eight signs say “No parking Friday 6 to 11 am for street sweeping.” SO why can’t they combine these signs on one pole? Are we expected to drive the entire block before we park and personally inspect each of the 8 signs to make sure they all say the same thing? I travel a lot and in most places they put all the parking restrictions on the same sign or pole. This is a NOBRAINER - unless the municipality is too lazy or intentionally trying to deceive people to increase revenue. So now I must submit another appeal in writing postmarked by August 9 as I a traveling thru Oregon (& it must be accompanied by the $57 payment). DO you think there’s any chance of a fair hearing? But I will try. I have a boat load of legal documents online for various cases I’ve been involved with and my logic is always victorious even if the courts don’t always see it that way– but anybody with a clear mind will realize the truth if they sift thru my documents. And it is the TRUTH that sets us FREE.
I am free because I stick to my logical guns which make sense. If I abandon this logic I am done. “Stick a fork in me” as some musician used to say. I am alive and free and will continue to strive to be my
best for God. Onward I pass Empire Lake. And here is Topits Park on Empire Lake. One guy fishing. Didn’t notice this previously. Simpson Park- big trees. The Itty Bitty Inn has Star Wars figures on the exterior. Kind of cool. Here’s Horsfall Campground & sand dunes. Need 4 wheel for the soft sand road. Guys flying a remote plane in the parking lot, 1054am. Umpqua River light house 1120am, Marie Lake (I remember), Saliman Harbor, Winchester bay, Douglas County, (young people in Coos Bay wearing vintage shirts saw one with a Def Leppard shirt, another with an AC/DC shirt). City of Reedsport. Stopped in at Dollar Tree bought some orajel for sore gum that’s been bothering me for a while. Also a whisk broom & a few double A batteries. Bolon Island? Really? And the Smith River again? City of Gardiner at 1209. Why historic? Cars “Shake it Up” Tahkenitch Lake 1215pm. Lots of inland wetlands in coastal Oregon. Oregon Dunes Day Use area 1225 -nice view need NPS pass. Silt Coos 1234. Carter Lake. Woahink Lake 1253. Honeyman State Park nice (fee). Florence Oregon weak Wi-Fi. Siuslaw River. Exploding Whale Park 210p. North Jetty (fast current, clear water) Florence Oregon. Nice relaxing nap on the beach with sun on face. Here’s the Darlingtonia Site (special plant, darlingtonia californica). Family surfing. Seal Caves 348. Hobbit Trail 354. Missed turn for Baker Beach Trail Here’s Washburn State Park 4pm.Nice tree tunnels at Washburn. Noticed low tire. Uh oh. Should I keep going or put on the spare?
I decided to try to make it to the next town with air figuring its Yachats. Big Creek 414. Rock Creek, Ocean Beach 415, TheOregonHouse.Com. Stonefield Beach 418, Ten Mile Creek. Bob Creek 422, Strawberry Hill 423, Cummins Ridge Trailhead, Neptune 424, Cape Perpetua Visitors Center. Cooks Chasm 426, Devil’s Churn 428, I made it to Yachats! Asked lady at Dollar General parking lot she said they have NO AIR- no gas stations. Got to keep going to Waldport- 8 miles. Tire is still about the samehalfway- still driveable. It’s a tiny tiny tiny pinpoint leak. Going slow angry honker behind me. Tillicum Beach 440. Beachside SP
442. Made it to Waldport. Gas station has air but its $2. Nearby NAPA fills it for free but they’re closing so they can’t check for leaks. Hopefully the tire will hold overnight. Back to the gas station got $20 for $4.97.And back to s Devil’s Churn- kind of cool- but not very exciting if the water isn’t pounding. Smelt Sands State Park 609 pm, Pulled into free weigh station sign blinks on tells me my vehicle weights 4200 pounds– but I don’t think that’s correct. Not sure if this thing is actually working– but it does light up with a number (the next day I did it again and it didn’t even change from zero). Fun while it lasted. Gov Pattison State Park 635. Seal Rock SP is nice. Beachside SP is long & wide open Ona Beach- I remember this specifically from many years ago with Lola. 703pm. Lots of driftwood back then. I will come back here in the morning. Tuesday August 2 2022 Make it to Les Schwab they patched it where an old plug was leaking. Guy in the waiting room started political conversation. He indicated that he’s not a Trump fan but not Hilary either. Says he didn’t vote in the Biden vs Trump election either. Not interested. That wildfire by the way is near Yreka. Here’s the Log Cabin Church in Yachats 915 am going back this way to see Thor’s Well & the Spout Horn. It’s low tide so I can walk down next to the well but not very exciting because the water isn’t shooting up. 10am. Alberta car 2 gals.
#PrayTheNews: Pelosi made it to Taiwan without getting shot down. She called China’s bluff. There’s a thing called the “Amanda Statue” but the turnoff looks closed. Looked it up later: “Near a footbridge over Amanda Creek, there’s a forest amphitheater and a concrete statue, usually draped with necklaces, of Amanda De Cuys, a member of the Coos tribe. a representative of the people who first lived in what would become the state of Oregon…” Alsea Bay Bridge. Back at Ona Beach. Took the walk- Not as much driftwood this time. Why is this particular spot so memorable to me? Beaver Creek and Brian Booth SP. nice boardwalk trail. People are SO CLEVER in a million ways of virtue signaling: 1) glance back furtively, 2) double check door locks, 3) repeated lock beep 4) “Who
is this guy” look. 5) Look you over head to toe- stare at toes derisively. 6) Blank stare -0 no facial expression or warmth or care. Or even a mean glare. South Beach ! Great location - did the 18 holes frisbee golf course using a frisbee and a plastic plate (which works better against strong winds- 1st time trying it and it works!). Around the 17th hole my real frisbee got stuck in a short pine tree too far to reach- couldn’t climb it– finally found a long old stick to knock it down. Then took a nice swim and a little body surf. Sun came out. Up to this point it’s a rare sunny day on the Oregon coast. Made it to Newport Library & then the Dollar Tree need a new charge wire. Then I went over to the trendy NYE district & beach. And it’s Tuesday so I go to the nearby theatre to do a discount movie review: #PrayTheMovies: it’s DC League of SuperPets an animated superhero film- made up of mostly animals, not many humans. It’s a “7 bucks production.. Puppy jumps in at last moment. Dog stops bank robbers. X-ray vision. Dog steals Superman’s hot dog. Starts getting jealous of Superman’s new relationship with Lois Lane. By the way, just as I sat down in the theatre- way in the back a mom with 5 kids comes in and walks all the way up back-towards me so they want the back row too? I get ready to stand up and let them pass but they turn down the aisle just before mine. Oh ok. Then I notice all the kids climbing over the chairs to sit in the back row. Good grief. Why didn’t they just say “Excuse Me?” The mom decides to not climb over and walks back towards me. I jump up “no problem.”
Then I move to another seat down in front. I think I left my jacket at my original seat- because I couldn’t find it later. Went back the next day but they didn’t have it. I figure somebody took it. It was a decent, nice jacket. SO here’s some weird karma: Later I found a jacket at a trail that had been there a while- a nicer one than the one I lost- & North Face. There is a little bit of lefty propaganda in this film– but just briefly. The dog character is named Krypto. He feels left out of the new superman Lois Lane relationship. Superman without his suit on looks like Duane Heeringa. Something about
orange Krypto. Here’s Aquaman, & Cyborg, & Flash, & Batman, & WonderWoman, & Green Lantern, “your problem is you” says one character. The guinea pig is bald-. Some of the animals in the kennel get new super powers. The kitten becomes killer kitten her whiskers are flame throwers. The guinea pig saves Lex Luther- but then Lex Luther abandons the pig. #PrayTheMovies: Use your powers to save those around you with the good news of Jesus Christ– to reach the lost sheep. Use the power of the Holy Spirit! It’s real, unlike super power movies.
Wednesday August 3: drive around Newport here’s the fairgrounds. Attend church mass at 9am - an Indian priest (from India). Go over to Moolack Beach- low tide. #2 Big Creek Park. #3 Back over to library finished Book of Genesis on YouTube NewAudioBIble. #4 back to Moolach again- good body surf session. So cold but so good! 4-mile walk towards Yaquina Head lighthouse on beach– surprised by an incredible perfect hole in the rock– with a perfect view of the lighthouse in the distance. Strangely this is NOT on any map or tourist guide. It would be a mecca for tourists if it was in a national park. I just call it THE HOLE. Red state matrix MG show is a little too gung ho about Q they passionately defend Q periodically. This was a great walk on beach. Not many people.
Thursday August 4 back to 9am mass – same priest also a guest priest friend of his from India. They read the daily reading and then instead of going straight into a homily- the priest allows people to make questions or comments about the reading to which he replies. Never seen that before. A few ladies have come prepared. Fascinating. Then he launches into a homily after Q & A. Beverly Beach 1021 am- wide expanse. Walmart: braunschwegger, corn, burrito, broccoli, lima beans, peas, sardines, mac & cheese, apple cider vinegar, Onward: here’s the Devil’s Punchbowl again been here a few years ago. Explore more closely this time- it’s low tide so you can hike down and go inside it. Kind of cool. This is Otter Crest beach & even a little waterfall. 1030 to 1145. Also stepped into the
Pura Vida Surf Shop still looking for a new neoprene hood. Almost found one but it was a little too big. They only had large size. No medium. Oh well. Something better is coming. Here’s stunningly beautiful vista point at Cape Foulweather today it is the opposite of it’s name perfect weather, nice views. Some people with binoculars looking for the local whale colony that apparently stays here all year ‘round. And here’s Whale Cove– looks like a great snorkeling spot but there’s no access allowed by land– only by boat. And here’s Boiler Bay. Now Fogerty Beach 1220. Glen Eden Beach 140. Gals with boogie boards arrive. A few surfers.
#PrayTheNews: Alex Jones lawsuit continues. Silez Bay NWR 134pm, Drift Creek 135, City of Lincoln City 136. And here’s the Xmas Cottage I remember passing by so many times on my winter Christmas trip I used to do every year for a while back in the mid 2000’s. Never actually been in there but it always caught my eyethey sell Xmas gifts all year round. And here’s the 3 rocks site– and trailhead. I blew right thru Lincoln City. Will go back. This is apparently a popular trail Cascade Head- will come back in the morning. Find the local library do some composition.
Friday August 5 Slept Comfort Inn. Rose early for hike back at trailhead at 6am, beautiful hike, and saw the herd of elk on the way back– they were in the distance on the edge of the cliff. Back to Lincoln City made it to noon mass at St. Augustine. Then to Roads End Beach noticed a guy with all his junk out of his car on the parking lot and spread out on a nearby picnic table. What’s that all about? Then a guy pulls up in the spot next to him and they talk and guy #1 gives guy #2 some of his “junk”-- not sure what it was. Later a different fellow comes by and appears to be giving guy #1 a battery jump but then guy #1 didn’t drive away. He’s still there. Was this a scam? Drug deal? Were they pretending to do a battery jump as a guise for something else?
SO I worked on Bellflower #2 appeal for a while and also converted an old neoprene band to work on my head and it did work. Saved $50. Took a swim – did some body surfing– lots of kite surfers out here on a very windy day. That looks like a blast. Made it back to the library. Final print. Must send this postmarked by August 9. Figure I will send it tomorrow. Saturday 8/6/22 6am another hike this one to “The Knoll” and “God’s Thumb” - a nice hike with a few spots of serious elevation. Good workout -about 5 miles total. Now I look at post office hours and the 2 here in Lincoln City are both closed on Saturday. When did that start happening? Are all post offices now closed on Saturdays? SO I go to Safeway to get a money order for $57 that must accompany the parking citation #2 appeal. But I can’t send it with proof if the post office isn’t open. NO worries. I have a few more days. After End of Road I go over to the library again. Some lady in a wheelchair in the parking lot stares intently at me as I walk to a trash can and drop a few things into it. She keeps staring – looks angry. Creepy. Worked on scribd docs at library. Same big guy working behind the counter. A new younger employee wearing an N95 mask I say “That’s quite a mask” He responds “I’m immuno compromised.” Hmm. Whatever buddy. Then a guy comes in and lays down on the couch inside the Driftwood Library. He has a Burger King hat like he’s on break from work at the BK across the street. I guess they allow this here. By the way I noticed a sign that this is the exact 45th parallel–halfway between the equator and north pole. For what it’s worth. After library I was going to pull into the D Street Beach like 2 days ago- but it is packed. Pull back out. I got a text message congrats from Jim or Lin re completion of Genesis on Audio Tube ! That’s nice. Appreciate that. Make it to 530 vigil mass back at St. Augustine. Decent people here in general. Not presumptuous. Downto-earth maybe almost too much so.
Sunday August 7 2022 northward – this is the Siuslaw National Forest. Neskowin Beach -looking for the “ghost trees” but it’s too far walk on the soft sand beach. Not in the mood. “Back in the
winter of 1997-98, a series of storms hit the central Oregon coastal town of Neskowin. The turbulent weather unearthed what is known today as the Neskowin Ghost Forest, the remnants of an ancient Sitka spruce forest. The stumps of the Ghost Forest have been estimated at approximately 2000 years old, and when they were alive,.. ”https://traveloregon.com/things-to-do/trip-ideas/neskowin-ghost-forest/ Lots of dog people on the beach at 730am. Water shoes. City of Oretown 813am. Little Nestucca River. Fishers Point Boat Launch (fee area 819am). Bob Straub SP trails beach, confluence (CF as usual). Man walking in middle of the road made me drive in the other lane. You can rent horses and camels to ride on the beach here. That would be fun– to ride a camel! Here’s haystack rock – and now Pacific City. Cape Kiwanda sand dune and beach is the big popular spot. $10 fee. I found one of the few free street spots. But ambiguous sign said “No Parking Between Signs” What signs? What exactly does this kind of sign mean? Is it a lazy catchall for anything they want it to mean? Others are parked here. Are they locals who know something or is it the blind leading the blind? Anyways, I stayed for a while then moved onward. Up the road is McPhillips beach on the other side of the dune where you can drive on the beach. A little bumpy entry but you can make it with any vehicle. Whalen Park & campground 951 am. Sitka Sedge 948 parking & trail inland or beach. Sand Lake Rec Area (like our Silver Lake in Michigan big sand dune- ATV’s dune buggy’s etc.
On the radio The Who “Tommy” (Casey Kasem 1970 show). Camp Meriweather Boy Scouts 10:18. Cape Lookout SP & trail 10:19 good song on radio “Tell it All Brothers & Sisters” I do the trail 5 miles RT – some very muddy spots & tree roots– wow. Quite a trail- good challenge. The final viewpoint was not so stunning but fun nonetheless. Passed a gal with old style Detroit Tigers hat - briefly chatted about Michigan she used to live in GR too. Small world. City of Netarts. 3-Arch Rock 135, Swam at Symons State Scenic Point & Beach– small waves. Refreshing swim but didn’t get the mud off my legs. Strange: There was a teenage gal maybe Asian
she arrived with her mom (?) around the same time I did. And as I walked into the water to take a swim, she was walking by the water’s edge and reaching down with her hand and scooping up sea water and sipping it from her hand. I signaled to her she shouldn’t do that. Not sure if she understood. It won’t kill her but if she drinks enough of it she won’t feel too well. She may have been a little simple. 247pm. Larson Falls on the beach known as “Short Beach” (not because of its length but somebody named Short back in the day) rustic cool, artificial? . It turns out there are two waterfalls: One is a drainage waterfall right by the trailhead artificial but still kind of cool. But the real waterfall is down the beach about half a mile– named Larson Falls (more about this later). I wonder why there are no surfers on Short Beach? Rocks? Old School Camper van with dude driving passes by also a dirt bike on the back & a surfboard on the side. Up from Short Beach is Meares Lighthouse & the Octopus tree. Driving up I had a flashback– I’ve been here before – maybe about 18 years ago? In the winter. Nobody else was here. Cool tree & nice lighthouse. 330 to 348. On the map it looks like you can continue on the road but it’s closed and I remember being surprised that it was closed back then too. They never open it. You gotta go all the way around. Too bad. Bayocean Peninsula. Tillamook Bay. Lake Meares. An expected confluence at turnoff kids on bicycles. Took the scenic road that way $10 fee to parkjust turned around. Trask River Tillamook 446. The group Air Supply was in town on Friday & Saturday in Lincoln City at the Indian casino- hmm. Just missed them.
Monday August 8 : And here’s Tunnel Beach- very cool. Back to Larson Falls– it might have a pool at top but difficult to get up there. Now looking for post office. Oceanside PO - the young employee said he doesn’t know very much they just “threw him to the sharks” he informed me (tiny hole-in-the-wall post office). He didn’t know about proof of mail or certified mail. Netarts post office not open yet. Back to Tillamook post office– sent my parking citation appeal - add $5 to get proof of delivery. Sent appeal with
Christ cards ^& invitation signed “The Evangelist” BA/BA/M.Div , and added “Feels Like Highway Robbery.” Over to the Tillamook Library 10 to 1130 (nice library, lots of plants. Here’s Munson Creek Falls 1230- pretty big short walk. A few others. Road back to Tillamook huge old airplane (or blimp) hangar is now the Tillamook air museum. And next to it is the “Near Space Center” (seriously). Got gas near Tillamook for $4.89/gal $45 total (Chevron) -- no line here– but across the street at Fred Meyer there were big lines and gas was only a few cents cheaper. Onward: here’s the cheese company big lines there I took the tour once or twice. Kind of neat. Here’s Bay City 145pm. And the Miami River. And here’s Garibaldi 146. And now the “Three Graces”- a striking 3-rock formation rising out of Tillamook Bay inlet near the road. City of Barview. Rockaway Beach Big tree trail walked about a mile each way. They put a ton of work into this boardwalk it’s very nice. And as I was leaving the parking lot after my hike I heard an old school trail tooting– and it was the historical choo choo train – tourists riding it. Kind of windy today- gal dropped $20 dollar bill in the parking lot and was chasing it. Lake Lytle. City of Wheeler 243p. Nehalem State Park. I remember this. Long drive to end and not much to see, or do. And it’s a fee area. REM CD playing: “Shiny Happy People.” City of Manzanita is cool. Took a rest. Short creek trail. Lots of cars. Cape Falcon? Arch Cape 413. Oswald State Park 4pm. Foggy. REM “I skipped the part about love..” Now near Ecola. Hug State Park 420. Arcadia State Park (big broad beach, looked like good waves but no surfers) 430. Big Broad Beach. Good waves. No surfers. City of Cannon Beach 438. And another “Haystack Rock” took a rest. 610pm. Indian Beach Ecola State Park (mean stare from an alpha male). This is a popular hiking & surfing spot. And a herd of elk by the road as I leave the park 715pm. Chapman Beach 726. #PrayTheNews: FBI raids Trump’s estate in Mar A Lago.
Tuesday August 9 2022 Slept in Seaside. Attended 8am mass. Then 9 to 1130 am at library. Dire Straits on radio: “Brothers in Arms”
1136. Drove out to Young’s River Falls around high noon. As expected, a confluence upon arrival. Body surfed. Went back thru an area I remember from last time. Also Lewis & Clark Cemetery. And Fort Clatsop. Painted Rock Beach. Beautiful day. Seaside.They say the water is warmer here because of the Columbia River mixture. It’s true. I verified. Took a swim- felt about the same as the ocean in L.A. in the winter- maybe high 50’s. You can see huge crabs by your feet occasionally as you walk thru the water here. Kind of cool. They are scurrying away trying to dodge your steps. #PrayTheMovies: “Bullet Train” it’s a Japanese setting based on a Japanese book but the characters are mostly American actors including B Pitt. I haven’t actually seen many of his films– if any– I realized. Is this the 1st one? Oh no I saw Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Code name Lady Bug. Step in puddle “my bad luck” Pitt plays a character with emotional issues going thru therapysome sort of bounty hunter or assassin or something like that. But he leaves his gun behind at the advice of his therapist. He lost his train ticket. Tokyo disco music. Pitt tennis shoes & little goofy beach hat a geeky look. Flashback to a bell boy who commit suicide and landed on top of Pitt’s car. Now he lost the key to his locker so he has to pick the lock. Japanese? Brit? Girl stuns him. 2 others blood on shirt. Pitt’s searching for a briefcase quickly finds it. The 2 brits are brothers? They’re called “Tangerine & Lemon” Who’s the new guy? Stickers. They argue about how many people they’ve killedwith flashback visuals. He’s got wine in ear. Who’s the gal in pink? The boss calls. His name is “White Death.” F bombs. A character who looks like Trevor Rubingh. Now a flashback to Mexico - 26 years ago- Pitt was involved in some escapade- where he made an enemy at a wedding Pitt did something to kill a bunch of people at a wedding in Mexico. He killed the “wolf” but also a guy’s new wife (or bride). Now that guy randomly encounters Pitt on the train and tries to kill him. But Pitt stops him. Not sure what the blood in eyes is all about. “You have a shootable face” says one character. And what do they mean when
the say “You’re a diesel” (apparently it means a person is exceptionally bad & evil). Pitt & either tangerine or lemon fight in a quiet car– stopping for the petite Japanese server– kind of slapstick moment. And then there’s a few scenes with Channing Tatum wich are pretty lewd I would say beneath an actor such as Channingnot that he’s a major household name but he’s done enough to not have to do tawdry scenes like this one in Bullet Train. “Thou Shall Not Kill” Lemon kills Japanese guy (hornet?). The boom slang snake she puts bomb in brief case. Pitt accidentally gets injected with the snake anti-venom lucky for him it saves his life ex post facto when he does get bit by the snake. Lemon turns out to still be alive. White Death is played by Michael Shannon. And then Sandra Bullock makes a surprise appearance at the end she was the voice on the other end of Pitt’s ear wire. The movie was kind of entertaining from intrigue and action but it’s a throw-away film. Here today, gone tomorrow. No redeeming value. The theatre itself in Seaside has a dilapidated old sign- like they’ve left it this way for years. And it has a cool old school video arcade including Pacman. But not asteroids.
Wednesday August 10 8am mass again at the Seaside Catholic church not far from the beach. Awkward moment. Glad to move on. 930 stop in at Walmart. $25 gas for $4.65 at Warrenton. Port of Astoria this is still Oregon. Stop in at library for an hour. Then over the longer bridge into the state of WA! Back in WA ! 1225 sign says “unceded Chinook territory.” I do some brief research and find out It’s not certain that they have been officially recognized as a tribe by the federal government. Here’s Fort Columbia – cool old historic fort. You can walk around it, or just drive thru it. And there’s “Dismal Nitch”: “ A fierce winter storm forced the Corps off the river on November 10, and pinned the group to a north shore cove consisting of little more than jagged rocks and steep hillside. Captain William Clark named the dreary spot “that dismal little nitch.” For six stormy days, the group was trapped by fierce wind
and high waves at the rocky shoreline...” https://www.nps.gov/places/dismalnitch.htm.
And then there’s Cape Disappointment. Such joyful names around here. “Its naming is credited to English Captain John Meares, who approached the cape in 1788, but could not locate the river's entrance. Meares, therefore, named the headland Cape Disappointment..” Here’s the City of Chinook & river 1235. No rain yet. And here’s the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse cook like to it about a mile RT. Active coast guard base is here too. And there’s Waikiki Beach– also cool- lots of driftwood in places. -- But also a good surf beach. A family is boogie boarding right now without wetsuits. Onward. Here’s the north jetty. And north head lighthouse the other lighthouse and a very nice lighthouse keeper’s estate. Saw a snake by the path to the lighthouse.. Did the loop. Now driving past Beards Hollow view point 235. Spent the rest of the day in Long Beach WA- watched sunset from the beach which you can drive on. Bonfire next to me. Super kite flyer . Somebody told me one of my brake lights is out. Thanks. Sleep.
Thursday August 11 2022: refill water 7am by the beach entrance. Foggy morning. Wilapa NWR & Lake. Music “I’m learning to let go, let God” Palix River. Stuart Slough 729. Bone River 724. Mac Powell August 21 at SW Washington Fair. City of SOuth Bend 738. City of Raymond 739. Yes they have I- net here. Smith Creek 802am North River, City of Tokeland has internet. Sign said “Annual driftwood show.” Shoalwater Indian Reservation gas $4.39 820am. Yee hah. New observation tower? – find out later it’s a tsunami escape space. Here’s the cranberry museum. City of Grayland 848am. Yes I-Net. “Grays harbor Lighthouse” you can see it from the road 9am. Observation tower is closed but a lady just ducks under and goes up. North Cove fishers. Random white water section mid bay Day 2 still eating the brownie batter pie that was delicious lasted for a week just a little every day. West Haven Beach (Westport Lighthouse State Park): popular surfing spot by
the jetty. And by the marina there’s restaurants & shops & charter fishing. Here’s Bottle Beach SP 10am. City of Markham and the Ocean Spray Factory. And now the Mermaid Museum & a nearby prison. I’m also a “location scout” for planting new Christian missions. There’s a gigantic bald eagle out in the field as I drive by too bad no zoom lens. And here’s Stafford Creek corrections center 1018. Prayers for the prisoners. ! 1021. City of Aberdeen! Bigger than I expected. And Grays Harbor College. Spent an hour on task at the Aberdeen library (Timberland). Hoquiam High School & Airport. 1225. Bowerman. Walked thru the Hoquiam library (also Timberland I think).
Here’s Bowerman Airport. Lots of log trucks. Hidden Coast Scenic Byway. Couldn’t find the historic homes. Didn’t try very hard. Stopped at boat launch and cast my line a few times. Can’t find my bait box though. Had to improvise. This is not the Hump Tulips area but a sign did say something about Hump Tulips. “The word and name Humptulips means “Hard to Pole.” This term refers to the difficulty in traveling the river by boat. “Onward: great swim Ocean City Washington Park drive on beach. Warm water again. GriffithsPriday. 213pm Copalis Beach. North beach. Museum. MoClips or MoCrocks. Quinalt Indian Reservation. Fish hatchery.. Brief drive on beach near MoCrocks/MoClips. Randy Travis CD -listening to it for the 1st time– it was a freebie from his appearance at the Grammy Museum where I was a member in their inaugural year in LA. “Women spell love T-I-M-E.” Quinalt Loop Here’s the world’s largest Spruce tree (4pm). Sign for Colonel Bob Trail. Merriman Falls 408 is really a waterfall or a cascade by the road? Oregon gal with dog parked next to me. As I pulled out– some lady stared angrily at me. Not sure what that was all about. Maybe she didn’t like my proLife signage. Here’s Travis again #17: I’m gonna give God the credit: How great thou Art. The Quinalt Loop is very lushgreen. Queets River 541pm. City of Gig’s harbor 551pm. City of Queets 555pm.
Entering Olympic NP 558. South Beach. Kalaloch Lodge. Rainforest trail 6 to 7. Biggest driftwood beach ever. Or drift trees. Beach #34 looked cool with rocky outcroppings. Tree of Life. Ruby Beach closed 715. Hoh Indian Reservation. “Hoh made jam” said a sign. High River 530 18 miles to rainforest trail Olympic NP. Slept by big cedar - actually the “world’s largest red cedar.” Friday August 12 Early morning arrival at Hoh River area– did the Spruce & Mossy trail- pretty cool. Hoh Hoh Hoh. Quick in & out. Trying to find out why some big trees grow without a single branch? Did a few quick online searches but still haven’t found a real answer. Bogachiel River SP 853 pull thru. City of Forks 921. John’s Beachcomber Museum is cool. 3rd beach is the trendy place apparently no parking spaces tried x3 so if that’s where the hipsters are going glad to go somewhere else. Apparently there’s a waterfall that empties into the bay (Strawberry Falls) & a rustic trail. But 2nd beach trail is pretty cool too. Lots of rock formations. City of La Push is an Indian town (native-American if you prefer). Quilete Indians? Cool town too. Sign before that says “No vampires beyond this point.” Since I can’t get a spot at 3rd beach I go to Rialto beach. This is another major driftwood drift tree beach. And you can walk one way to something called “Hole in the Rock” another trendy destination.-- so I went the other way towards the rock formations one of them is called Little James Island boulder hopping– dropped my phone once– had to move a dead tree == literally = to get back to it . Why do things that drop always find the most difficult niche? Is that part of Murphy’s Law? I should have learned my lesson of the day from that incident. But I didn’t. Bigger trouble coming.
Took a brief swim at Rialto. Not ice cold. Then back over to beach #2- near the Sol Duc River.-- nice hike cool rocks I started climbing one by the water’s edge- and suddenly my phone just popped right out of my pocket– and slid down the rock. I waited for it to stop– hoping it would before the water. But of course it landed in a little tide pool puddle. And I pulled it out almost immediately
but that’s all it takes. I gave the phone several days to dry out but it won’t re-start. That started some whole new drama: without a phone- there’s no internet– no google maps. I go back to the city center of Forks fortunately the library is open I stop in and use the computer tried google voice but it won’t work on a public computer without a microphone attached. Searched for payphones. There’s a list of places on the internet where there are supposed to be payphones across the USA– but in actuality most of these places do NOT have pay phones anymore. There’s NO PROFIT in payphones anymore but they are still critical in an emergency situation. That’s something the federal govt could do some GOOD ABOUT– they could make it federal law that every rest area has a working payphone. I finally got a Shell gas station attendant in Forks to let me use her store phone 515 (plus strange confluence by the door) I thought I could re-activate my older phone but now my company won’t activate this older phone. SO I had to order a new phone but I don’t have an address here to send it too. So I can’t do that until later when I know where I will be in a few days. Continued up the road towards Crescent Lake where I planned to do the Storm King trail What’s the Rugged Ridge Trail? Maps places Rugged Ridge near the Hall of Mosses which I did this morning. Here’s the City of Beaver WA near Pleasant Lake 501pm. Rain begins at 528 (briefly). City of Sappho 530. Makah Tribal. La Poel Day Area 558. And here’s Crescent Lake! Did the shorter waterfall hike to end the evening. Beautiful sunset. Also a mama & baby deer by the ranger station. Watched Kung Fu Panda 2 on my phone that I had earlier downloaded from Netflix just in case I got stuck without internet (and/or my other phone). And fell asleep.
Saturday August 13: started out early to do Storm King. A few other cars already in the parking area. This trail is 4 miles and 2400 feet elevation (. I thought it was difficult, but later I will do a 3-mile 3200 feet trail and another drama-filled chapter). Switchbacks-. 2 gals passed me going down– they were the early birds. And then some guy who looked like Tarzan (without a shirt too) passed me
going up as if it was a walk in the park. Near the 1st peak (which is where most people turn around) there are some ropes to help you over the dusty rocky vertical area. And you can keep going UPWARD I was intrigued and did so- up to peak #2 -more rocks & even a chain. Be careful. Made it. Back downward. Don’t like it when people say “good luck” . I don’t rely on luck. I rely on GOD. And I dedicate my hikes to prayer for people or groups or issues etc Going down a solo lady said to me “Tell me I can do this” – I encouraged her that absolutely she could but told her to “take a lot of breaks.” Back at the Storm King Ranger station I took a swim 1030. Felt good. Then drove onwards towards Port Angeles stopping first to see Madison Falls in the Elwha Valley area–. 1126am. Also Lake Sutherland near hear cottages & boats. A few stare people at Madison Falls. Took the Little River Road rambled into Port Angeles the other Angeles. Never been here before. Didn’t even know where the city center was–and was navigating without any computer assistance- the way we used to in the “old days”-- finally found a helpful fellow standing at the entrance to the Sasquatch Music Festival to give me directions. And found the main business area where I stopped at the Port Angeles visitors center. Found the library used the computer for the 45 minutes they allow. Then I used my old phone to connect to Wi-Fi and do some research and planning found a casino gas station selling unleaded for $4.35/gal – the best price in town (maybe the reservations don’t have to pay the same tax as others). Filled it up for $57.91. Found the Walmart and was able to buy a temporary phone for $50 that includes a month of phone service and 1 gig of data. That should hold me until I get a new phone. I also called and made sure a phone was on the way. Will pick it up at the post office in Olympia. Sat at the McDonalds for a few hours using their Wi-Fi to get things back in order so much daily tasks we use our smartphones for now. Including bill pay. Among other things. I also update all my blogs from my phone. And my maps evangelism. And my YouTube ministry. Then I found a hotel for the night. No Wi-Fi. Kept watching Kung Fu Panda.
Sunday August 14 5am sunrise driving up to Hurricane Ridge. Took the popular Hurricane Hill hike– which is all paved– nice for families & handicapped etc. Lots of deer at the top. And the birds learned later they’re called “Sooty Grouses” Apparently there’s still mountain goats up here as well but I didn’t see any and today is the last day to hike Hurricane Hill before they close it for 10 days for a “Wildlife Operation” which I learn later is a continuation of removing the goats from the Olympics to the Cascades because Olympics are NOT their natural habitat and they don’t get enough salt from the rocks here-. So they use helicopters to move them. And they apparently do not sedate them. Each helicopter carries 3 goats in slings it must terrify those goats. A few pics at https://crosscut.com/environment/2020/08/olympic goats take final flight their new cascade home
After Hurricane Hill I went down the road and started hiking the “Switchback Trail” that you can take all the way to Lake Angeles if you’re so motivated, or you can go to the viewpoint, or even not that far at all and still get a great 360 degree view of Port Angeles, Mount Olympus, Mt. Baker, and Mount Angeles. Plus green pastures with flowers it’s beautiful- even a few snow patches remaining in August. Great hike but my legs were killing me. This was “only” 1400 feet elevation and around 3.4 miles but my legs were dead from Storm King and Hurricane Hill. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed the hike.
Monday August 15 2 miles on the “Discovery Trail” towards the water’s edge. Saw 1 deer and a perfect wasp nest in a bush about waist level high. There’s a creek here with a rope swing. Remember that. Drove around the Dungeness NWR 5 miles from the 101that’s a hidden gem. And there’s a 5-mile “spit” here that goes to a lighthouse no road the only way there is to walk and I will but not today. And there’s a “game farm”-- apparently a drive thru wildlife park– wasn’t sure if they were still in operation as I drove
by. Apparently they are-. King’s Way Church has a huge wooden cross in front. Here’s the City of Sequim (apparently pronounced Squim). New Song: “God’s love is like a boom-arang. U give it away. It comes back again.” Stop back in at Walmart pick up some food. Also refreshed my evangelical material at the Home Depot. Then I go southward on the 101: Here’s the John Wayne Marina. Did he have a house here too? What’s the connection? Just admiration? On the radio (a Canada station) they’re talking about a new thing called “voice cloning” whereby they say if you have a clip of anybody’s voice you can use it to program their voice to read a book or whatever like you might want to hear your grandpa’s voice reading a book to you. I suppose it could be used for nefarious purposes as well, unfortunately. Sequim State Park & boat launch 149pm. Cline Split County Park. 224. Bald eagle on post at Dungeness County Park. Rest of the day at library. Tuesday August 16 530am taking the Cline Spit hike to lighthouse, 11 miles RT, what a hike– especially if you’re the first hiker of the day which I was! Saw at least 7 or 8 bald eagles- or should I say I had 7 or 8 unique sightings of a bald eagle- not sure how many were the same one. But then I saw animal tracks in the sand on the beach where I was walking definitely a paw print- but dogs are not allowed out here- and NO human prints next to it so some sort of wild animal is out here and it’s a fresh track the tide hasn’t erased it yet. What could it be? A little while later I see bird feathers in a pile where the tracks end whatever it was caught something then headed inland. And right at that moment I see a bald eagle to my right -0- I turn my camera towards it and then it flies away it’s only a few steps to see over the slight bank of sand - so I move that way- and then I see the track maker – it’s a coyote - maybe a young one.. And it starts running towards the bald eagle a fruitless endeavor but nonetheless he tries the eagle flies away and the coyote keeps running along the edge of the inset pond of sorts. Made it all the way to the lighthouse arriving just around 9am– when they are supposed to start giving tours– I saw a person moving in the
keeper’s house- maybe a “she”-- not sure they must be people who love their solitude to volunteer for this job.
Doing the tours is probably like getting their teeth pulled for them. I decide not to insist on a tour. I take a few pics and turn around and start walking back. By this time I can see a steady stream of people heading towards me. I’m glad I started early. All the eagles are gone now. I feel like I could walk forever – as long as it’s flat. I have no problem walking long distances without elevation but add elevation as with most people- and that’s the game changer. Back at the parking lot. There’s a Dutch couple I asked them a question– not knowing they were Dutch– thinking they knew the area but the lady immediately tells me they are Dutch. I follow up and say “You’re from the Netherlands? “ Yes. I tell them my last name it’s a very common Dutch name and she says “That’s Dutch.” I say “Yes I’m Dutch - American.” They’re not very interested. She picked up an Americanism and says to me “Have a nice day” cutting off our conversation. It reminds me of a black African- American who says he went back to Africa and found his “tribe” and the tribe was NOT very interested at all. Likewise, I don’t think my Dutch ancestors care very much about me being Dutch-American. It’s kind of disheartening. Anyways, this Dungeness NWR is a hidden gem a goldmine of wildlife especially the bald eagles. This water way is known as Juan de Fuca Straits, and the section I walked is the Cline Split.
Passed back thru Dungeness County Park and there was the same baldie (presumably) again on the same pole. It stayed there a long time. Then another bald eagle showed up– and they both sat on separate poles for a while. Great place for pics: with both Mt. Baker in the distance as well as the lighthouse with the eagles in front. Surprised how casual most people are/were about it. Most people pulling thru the parking lot periodically either didn’t see the eagles on the poles or weren’t interested. I guess that’s how I’ve become in Southern Cal about seeing seals. Originally, coming from the
midwest, it was fascinating to me to see seals (& dolphins) at the beach. But over time it’s become normalized.
Wednesday August 17 2022 Now driving south. Here’s City of Gardiner 550am. City of Discovery bay. There’s a restaurant called Fat Smitty’s. Lake Leland 6am. Long Lake. City of Quilcene 605am. Dabob Bay. Falls View canyon hike is thru an abandoned NP campground- like a ghost town or ghost campground. Used to be a thriving campground what happened? It’s a short walk to the waterfall which could be impressive when there’s more water now it’s pretty thin. Mt. Walker 647. There’s a place called Camp Parsons nearby 653. Point Whitney tidelands. Here’s the Univ of Washington Shellfish Lab. water is clear and clear here. City of Brinnon and up the road a few miles is Rocky Brook waterfalls. Upon arrival there were a few “private property” signs– not sure what that was all about–was some neighbor trying to scare people away? It’s a public area including a parking lot. So I ignore the signs and walk about 100 yards to an impressive waterfall. This also near the Doswallips Recreation Area 707 where there’s lots of trails- but my goal is to reach staircase today– and then later maybe come back this way. I keep going. There’s also the Duckabush Recreation Area, & Triton Cove State Park 758. And here’s Hood Canal big! Hamma Hama is another recreation area 801. And now City if Eldon 808. And finally the city of Hoodsport the gateway to Staircase area of Olympic National Park 830am. 16 miles to Staircase. Dirt road - a bit rough. And I originally intended to start small with the “easy” 2 mile loop hike called Staircase Rapids. But it looks too easy– I need something a bit more challenging.
There are a few other hikes starting here the one called Wagonwheel Lake catches my eye it’s only 3 miles each way but there’s a warning that it’s “very difficult” – because there’s 3200 feet of elevation - in comparison- Storm King which I did a week ago is “only” 2400 feet. Am I crazy? I decide to go for it. So I start going up, and up, and up. Glad I took two big bottles of water. Need it.
Nobody else on the trail. I use my walking stick to break the spider webs across the trail. Clearly I’m the first person today. In fact when I get near the top there’s bushes and branches that don’t look like anybody’s pushed their way thru in a while. Didn’t realize it was such a low- traffic trail. I take several rests along the way sometimes reclining on my back. Over the years I’ve gotten used to clipping my car key to the cross I often wear on a lanyard around my neck. It has never failed me. I’ve never lost a key. Sometimes I will flip the cross around to the back so that it’s not bouncing off my stomach as I hike. I did so today. Then I went thru a couple 100 yards of overgrown raspberry bushes and roots of course a few times the branches knocked my hat back or off my head– I pushed onward. Finally I made it a bright aqua blue-colored pond not really a lake. And it’s not an easy walk to the water’s edge. You have to use all four limbs to go down an incline. I was intent on taking a swim to cool off. I yelled a few times “Anybody here? “ Nobody responded. I took off my shirt etc & that’s when I suddenly noticed my key with the purple hook normally clipped to the cross around my neck is GONE! I LOOK CLOSER. Check again. Double check. No purple key. Not on the ground nearby. My heart sinks. God please. Don’t let this happen. This is my ignition key and I have no backup and it’s a “chip key” that requires special locksmith to make new one- and it’s usually not cheap. And I have NO connection on my cell phone– no data– no phone. And it’s another 2 hours to get back to my car. Good Lord. Help! Despite my panic I still manage to take the time for a brief dip in the pond to clean off the sweat and start fresh downward. I look all around everywhere at the lake for my PURPLE KEY. It’s gone. I start thinking maybe it got pulled off as I was going thru the bushes. Maybe I can find it in the bushes. Or if not that maybe when I lay down to rest somehow it got pulled off and maybe it’s right in the middle of the trail somewhere. My mind is going thru all the scenarios now– If I can’t find it– is there a ranger at the station? Do they have a phone? Can I get a locksmith or tow truck all the way
up here? Etc etc. It’s disheartening but I still have hope I might find the key.
I start praying and saying the Hail Mary prayer as I go back looking back and forth along the trail and pushing branches to the side it’s gotta be here somewhere. I also start thinking even if I do NOT find it– sometimes God uses these “unfortunate” situations for a purpose we don’t understand until later. So I always add “Thy Will be Done” when I pray for things like “Help me find the key. According to Thy Will, Lord.” I kept going down. And then I encountered another hiker for the 1st time they were coming up- a young guy & gal– with accents– not Americans– Europeans. I ask them to look for it. I make it back to the trailhead and walk over to the ranger station nobody there but there’s another building behind it and a pickup truck parked there. I walk over and knock. The door opens quickly. It’s a gal named Marie with a 12-year old golden dog - a small one. She is not a ranger but a person employed by the National Park to repair things. She lets me in and I explain my predicament. She says nobody gets cell connection up here with any service but she has a landline phone she hands it to me but I still need the phone number of my tow service Good Sam fortunately she also has a computer with web connection she looks up the number. Meanwhile, a ranger named Ginger has arrived. Both Ginger & Marie are really nice and helpful and we engage in conversation for a while as I wait for the approval from my tow company. And after almost an hour on & off the phone - having been disconnected twice- and calling back -finally I get an approval for a tow. Praise the Lord.
A guy named Clancey Phillips all the way from Port Orchard will be here in about an hour. I call him- and tell him the situation. He asks me if there is a car in front of mine. I say no it’s an open area but not really where a tow truck can drive. In fact there’s a car on each side of mine. One has a wilderness permit– probably won’t be back for a few days. Not sure about the other. He asks me if my tires are
“straight.” I say “I think so”- He responds “It’s too far for me to drive if you just think so.” I reply “I’m pretty sure”- I’m thinking I pulled straight in. Not sure why this is so important. He thinks it is. He says “Ok I’ll be there in an hour. I ‘ll figure it out.” Thank God. It’s getting near dark. All 3 of us in the little back repair room give a cheer. They’re cheering for me. Feels good that they care even if they’re just doing their job. Or maybe they just want to make sure I get going? So we walk outside. Ginger gives me a comfortable chair to sit on outside, and she even prepares a meal for me. An amazing sandwich and a bottle of water and a few other things. That was very considerate of her even if it’s just part of the job. She was very nice. I sat alone for a while. Later she came over and asked me about my trip we chatted She’s been a ranger for 2 years now a 2nd career. She may be in her late 60’s- not sure. She’s from the Minneapolis area just does the summers here. Marie was from Port Angeles - a local gal. Ginger tells me about the “wildlife operation” happening at Hurricane Hill. They actually move these mountain goats by helicopter without sedating those holy smokes- three at a time using slings that must be quite the sight. It’s because the Olympics is NOT natural habitat for them not enough salt in the rocks.
After about 90 minutes, almost 9pm, Clancey Phillips arrives with an older model tow truck– loud enough to hear it coming– we direct him to my car which has a car on each side and no space in front to get to and, as it turns out- the front wheels are NOT straight. Oops. He gets dramatic and says “I thought you said the wheels were straight.” I thought they were. “I can’t do this.” Long silence. Then he says, “Well, maybe if the steering wheel doesn’t lock.” But we’re still NOT inside the car. No key for ignition or door. He pulls out some sort of inflation device that he connects to my driver’s side window pumps it up a bit to make a crack in the door so he can insert a steel pole – tries to click on the automatic unlock– but it doesn’t work. For some reason my alarm actually does work at the moment. Seems like most of the time it is NOT working but it
randomly gets triggered and I’m not sure what triggers it. So then he tries to get the manual unlock and plays around for a while and finally gets it! So now we’re inside the vehicle. Will the steering wheel turn to put the tires straight? He starts turning so far so good- and all the way before the wheel locks! Another sigh of relief. But now he has to pull the vehicle out backwards can’t put it in neutral. Can he do it without damaging anything?
At first he says, “There’s two options. Not tow it or drag it out and risk damage.” Silence for a few seconds. Then he says, “Wait I know what I can do” and he pulls out some “tire sleds” to put under my front tires to prevent the drag on them. Awesome. He fiddles with these and moves it a few feet but he’s not satisfied with it he goes back into his box and pulls out a “dolly.” This is even better. Ginger and Marie are watching as well and taking notes for next time. They tell me they learn a little from every incident. Finally he gets it all the way out. Unhooks it. Drives around to the front. Re-hooks it. And off we go. It’s dark now. I wave goodbye to Ginger and Marie and say thanks so much I will never forget you. They were really nice about it. Not taking the opportunity to shame me for losing my key. I’ve learned my lesson even though in actuality I was being fairly safe and cautious. We drive all the way to Belfair - he leaves me in an Ace Hardware parking lot thinking I will be able to get a new key there. Or if that doesn’t work he says there’s “Belfair Bob” a locksmith down the road. Sleep.
Thursday August 18 The next morning I called the hardware store from the parking lot and they said they could make a new key for $65 but the person who does it won’t be there until 10am. I sighed a sigh of relief. That’s not as bad as the $300 Clancey the Tow Truck Driver said he got charged. Around 10 I went into the hardware store and the key guy informs me that without an original key, he cannot make a new key. They thought on the phone I was talking about getting a chip key copied, not made from scratch. So I call Belfair Bob. He wants almost $400 to do it. I call the dealership in
Port Orchard which would require another tow they charge $250. Finally a 3rd locksmith said he could come to me and do it for $300- cash only. That’s STILL A LOT! Makes me so mad that I allowed this to happen. Nobody to blame but me. I agree and he arrives around 1230. It takes him a while to make the new key. He has a few different “machines” that he tries the 1st 2 don’t work unable to communicate. Finally, the 3rd one works! Voila! The car starts again. He even promises me a 2nd backup copy free– but I have to drive to his shop - to get it. Might as well. That’s a $65 dollar value. I drive there surprised how much traffic there is here I thought this was a rural area NOT AT ALL. Traffic is crazy here. There’s a navy shipyard near here too. After new key went to Timberland library in Belfair 230 to 4. The lady was nice when I first came in but cold as I left giving a perfunctory “Thanks for coming in.” Made space on SD card. Now driving towards Twanoh State Park in Union WA on Hood Canal. And it’s packed with people on a warm summer day. Found a parking spot and took a brief swim in the salty water. Lots of oyster shells on the bottom. Mostly families here cooking BBQ, relaxing. Reminds me of Holland State Park in the 70’s. Onward. Route 106 south shore. It’s mostly cottages and private property along the waterfront here. Here’s the historic Dalby Water wheel. Purdy creek.
Now Friday August 19 613 am. Shelton WA Who’s George Blush? Thru historic Shelton. A few rain drops. Made it to Olympia and picked up a new phone. Donated blood at Biolife. Mariah was nice. But the other “person” was not. Over to the Olympia Library. Come back out and my battery is dead. Good grief. What’s next? Call for a jump. Then drive to NAPA. Buy a new battery. It’s more complicated installment than a regular car this one requires a few more tools which I don’t have. Napa won’t put it in for me claiming “liability” blah blah. I call a nearby auto repair (Mike’s Plum Street Auto) near closing time- they say they can do it if I get there by 5:15. SO I grab the battery and get there by 505. Young man puts it in for me in a few minutes, but then they charge me $50 bucks.
Unbelievable. How greedy is that? I wasn't expecting a freebie but $50 bucks is ridiculous. I thought maybe $25 at tops. But I didn’t want to argue at the moment. Their reward will be in heaven if you know what I mean. So that’s another $250 out of pocket. The young mechanic knew the history of his area. That’s refreshing. He knows more than just tools and gears. He was nice and decent but the office manager was the greedy one (as is usually the case). The mechanic told me that Sequim (pronounced Squim - I learned from the ranger at Staircase) is actually a desert it’s in the “rain shadow” of the Olympics which gets quite a lot of rain- enough to make some parts a “rainforest” - but Sequim itself gets blocked from the rainfall. So all in all- the trip thru the Olympics cost me an unexpected $550 dollars for new ignition key, new battery, plus installment. And it’s not over yet I returned the old battery to NAPA for the $18 core refund. Krista tried to be nice, I think. Here’s St. Martin’s University.
Saturday August 20 8am mass at St. Martin’s Abbey- a monastery. And then 9am mass at nearby Sacred Heart in Lacy WA. After the 2nd mass I came out to my car and realized my tire was low. But not yet flat. I drive to a nearby tire shop- came here a year ago for a new (used) tire-. He finds a nail in the tire and plugs it up. That’s another $10. Then I go over to Lacy Library 11am to 3pm and do composition on my book (which you are reading). And then back to Sacred Heart for 5pm vigil mass. And then to the Holiday Inn for the night.
Sunday August 21 730 am St. Michael’s Catholic- came here a year ago when they still required masks. Now it’s optional. These Olympia churches the people all know each other and know if you are not “one of them.” It’s a bit awkward. They try to pretend they don’t notice but they do. It’s like a 6th sense they have. After St. Michael I go to 9am service at Evergreen Christian. This is a nice atmosphere. Feels a little easier going. And then back over to the abbey at St. Martin’s for their 11am Sunday service. And then I drop in at the Capital Christian church for their 11 o’clock service -
arriving at 11:45. I watch in the overflow room on the monitor with a few others. The preacher is talking about the danger of debt and even mortgages and notes that the word mortgage actually comes from the root of the word for death. Wow. And most homeowners think they are superior to non- home owners because they have a mortgage. Have they sold their souls? Just jesting but seriously some have too much of their identity tied up to being homeowners and the house they live in rather than how they represent Christ in their daily life. Afterwards I go back to the blood place and make my 2nd donation for the week trying to make up for my recent unexpected financial setbacks. I don’t really like the people at the Olympia location. They are not very nice. After the blood donation I go to the Capital Mall library and do a little more composition. Afterwards I go for a swim at Black Lake. There’s a purse lady there unfortunately. Why do ladies take their purse to the beach and then act all worried that somebody might take it? It’s ridiculous sometimes– ladies and their purses – and their little red riding hood complex. I’m NOT the big bad wolf just because you’ve never seen me before. Drive by the Olympia Airport. Then I move onward north towards Seattle .
Monday August 22 I make it to the 8am mass at St. James Cathedral. I usually like coming here. Good atmosphere even though the bishop is too much lefty. He’s made some public decisions in that regard. There’s a traffic guy who looks like Wesley Snipes by the catholic school. I tell him he looks like Wesley. He says “no, like Denzel.” We laugh. I walk to the Central Library and use the computer for a little while. That’s a cool library. But just as a I sit down in the huge computer lab with many open spaces, a homeless guy chooses to sit right by me of all places. He could have sat anywhere else the place was wide open but he chooses to be near me and to make noise pulling out food to eat etc. I decide to leave after 5 minutes, and express myself to one of the workers there. There’s a red room or hallway on the floor below which is neat. I make a short video of the library for my YouTube channel
and then walk out and back to my car 11am. I drive to my favorite Seattle Park Volunteer Park. Lots of shade. I can relax. Also I can refill my water bottles. 12 noon. Then I drive to the Space Needle area and go to the Pop Culture Museum - using a free coupon ($20 value!). They have some cool exhibits here including a horror film history exhibit - with lots of memorabilia. From there I briefly walk around and then go back over to Volunteer Park.
Tuesday August 23 2022 today I go to the wooden boats museum and MOHAI (Museum of History & Industry, Seattle) on the shore of Lake Union. It’s a nice museum lots of exhibits. I watch a pontoon plane land on the lake from the window of the museum. I see some kids learning how to sail on little boats. There’s a Bill Gates exhibit (boo). There’s a native-American exhibit. Cars. Planes. Boats. Logging. Etc etc. lots to see and enjoy. Very nice. Then I go to noon mass at Sacred Heart church by the Space Needle. What a picturesque spot for a church with the space needle almost right next to it. After mass I drove south on the shoreline past the aquarium, past T-Mobile Park, past the football stadium. Then meandered back to Volunteer Park watched the jugglers practicing on the lawn. Took a nap. Added some oil.
Wednesday August 24 : 8am St. James , then back towards TMobile park- bought a cheap ticket for the Mariners game using TickPick. Parked by the Taco Bell and did some Cut n Paste for a while. Then started the walk to the Mariners game (vs nats). Start time, 1pm. And Mariners lose today 3-1. Warm day. After the game I go to the Beacon Hill Library, also stop in at the QFC grocery store. Thursday August 25 8 am St. James. It’s going to be another HOT one. So I decide to go to another Mariners game- literally as a place to stay cool more so than excitement about a baseball game. This time I buy the ticket from Seat Geek. 9am I’m parking again–this time a little closer to the park. Do a little more Cut N Paste. 1pm back at the ballpark. This time the Mariners WIN- reversing the score from yesterday 3-1 vs Guardians- all the runs coming in the
1st inning with a 3-run homer by Mitch Hanger. During the game I had a strange experience with some random lady coming up and sitting near me– and after a while trying to ask me some questions–I could barely hear her. 1st she asked if I could call somebody for her. I’m a bit hesitant. What’s going on? Why is she alone at the game? You see guys alone at games but rarely ladies. Why doesn’t she have a phone? But I’m a sucker– thinking it’s the Christian thing to do – I call a number for her. She didn’t really explain why. Nobody answers. Then she says “That’s my phone”. I say “Why do you want me to call your phone?” She doesn’t answer. She doesn’t make sense. I ask her if she needs help. I ask her if I should get an usher to help her. She says “Hell no” as if that’s ridiculous. Then she says “I just want to get out of here.” I say “Where’s your group?” She answers vaguely. She says she’s a manager at an Applebees restaurant in Wenatchee. And then she says she’ll pay me $3000 to drive her to Wenatchee. I laugh. Then I decide I better get a picture of her to document this – I try to covertly do so but she may have noticed suddenly she got up and walked away. She sat in another section for a little while. Then she left. And I never saw her again. Weird. Whatever. Prayers for her. After the game I went to the Beacon Hill library again. And QFC. The clerk got angry at a customer while I was in there. Not sure what it was all about.
Friday August 26 9am made blood donation in Tukwila. New area to me. 11 to noon at the laundromat. After laundry I go to the flight museum. I wasn’t expecting too much but this is like the GETTY OF AIR MUSEUMS. Or the Louvre. This place is incredible. I was there from 1 to 5pm and didn’t see everything. Will go back. I’m not a big gear head or anything like that but this is more than just machinery. It’s history. And well-done- beautiful. Interactive displays. Various actual airplanes including the Concorde airplane from UK, as well as one of the presidential planes (Air Force I), among many many others, including World War 1 & 2 displays. Also: a Dreamliner, an Apollo exhibit, a space shuttle exhibit.
English Channel air bike exhibit. Much more. And also a Disney exhibit. As well as 1st man on moon. “That’s one small step for man, one giant step for mankind” Armstrong, Cronkite, 1969. Also animals in space. And a control tower. The X1 speed record display was also cool. Everything was cool about the Flight museum except the Mexican ticket clerk. Not a nice fella. Lost connection with phone. The cellular connectivity in the greater Seattle area is a joke–it’s atrocious. I can never be sure when I will be connected or not. SO now I have to carry an extra trac phone as well, just in case of emergency. It’s ridiculous for a major metropolitan area. By the way, Mitch Haniger gets the game winning hit again for the Mariners. They’re still hoping for a wildcard spot versus Tampa. I’m keeping an eye on them. I’m an honorary fan.
Saturday August 27 it’s raining a little bit. Kind of cool. Lots of Indian reservations that are a derivative of Snohomish: Stillquamish, Skokomish, Swinomish, Suquamish, Stillaquamish, Samish, and more. Kind of funny. Gas for $3.99 16 gallons $64.40 total 10am Arlington WA. Mt. Vernon. Burlington 11am church at St. Charles. Samish Lake & Park 115pm. been here before (BHB). A few jet skiers parked on the beach. A family reading books. Made short video. Getting warm. Onward stop in at Padden Lake –take a swim. Then a blood donation– new place in Bellingham. Blue hair gal named Jory talked about picking mushrooms. Sunday August 28 attended the bigger catholic church, also a mega church called CTK. Monday August 29 went to the sacred heart catholic church in Bellingham for the 1st time 9am. Then to the branch library- nice little place. Then back over to my favorite spot: Padden Lake. Took a swim across lake (x2). 1 to 4pm.
Tuesday August 30 10am stop in at Bellingham main library. Then over to Boulevard park 12 to 1 –. Then back to Padden Lake 2 to 6walk and swim. To Regal theatre for a discount Tuesday movie- now they require you to have the app to get the discount- what a pain- it
takes me about 10 minutes to download, log in etc. Do they want my money or not? For the last 10 years they looked up my account by phone number. Now they require the app. The lady would not budge. I’m angry but I don’t show it. (A few weeks later I notice Regal has filed for bankruptcy protection). #PrayTheMovies: The movie “Where Crawdads Sing” was a disappointment. I thought it was about a gal who literally survived on her own in a North Carolina forest/marsh. But it’s not really “survival” – she lives on her own in a house from a young age- Not a true story either. And it’s a romance etc. Not my kind of film. Here’s my usual movie notes: directed by Reese Witherspoon. Barkley Cove NC. 2 kids on bikes find body. Chase Andrews was a local hero. The police think the “marsh girl” did it. Now a flashback to 1953- family growing up in house in the marsh abusive father. Mother leaves. Then all the kids leave. Except her. She remains. Song by Taylor Swift. Now flash forward– she’s a murder suspect- gets arrested. Meanwhile they flash back and forward- the jail, the trial, her brief time at school, a tutor, a boyfriend, another boyfriend. Etc etc. The teacher at school ask her how to spell dog and she says “G-O-D” - and all the kids laugh and taunt her. She runs out. A letter from mom arrives. Dad burns it. It’s the last straw. Dad leaves her. She’s alone. She looks like Audrey a gal I knew at Calvin. 4th July boyfriend never returns from college. She is devastated- tears up some of her sketches. She slowly recovers- starts drawing again– a publisher wants to publish her material. She meets a new guy- a rich guy from town. But he’s two-timing her. Prayers for Washington people. Hear my prayer. College boy returns - wants to reestablish relationship. Now it’s Tate vs Chase the 2 guys. Prayers for MijNil.
#PrayTheMovies (cont): She publishes book “Shells of the Carolina Marsh.” Chase destroys her house. Tate drops by. Jury deliberation. Quick verdict: Not Guilty. Wednesday August 31 8am Ferndalenorth of Bellingham- did the Fragrance Garden hike near Nooksack River. Also Tenant Lake - a lily pad lake. And Hovender Homestead Park. northward back by Birch Bay State Park (during low tide
the boats just sit on the bottom and wait for the water to return) this is where I saw a deer last time walking out on the beach during low tide, and now the Cherry Preserve and Whitehorn Park (BHB: been here before). Did the hike at Whitehorn- and went briefly down to the beach-didn’t stay very long. Neptune Beach didn’t come here last time it’s a community and some old military things lady gave a friendly wave- twice– as I passed going both ways. Making good video progress. Lummi Reservation is also a cool drive it’s only for native-Americans to live on- but the public can drive thru. The Indians seem pretty friendly. Lots of totem poles by the high school. A house with 3 or 5 old AMC Pacers sitting in a row in their front yard- don’t see those very often anymore. I remember the Kammingas used to drive one of those came to Holland every summer in it, from Minneapolis. There’s also a ferry on the Lummi reservation that you can take to Lummi Island- which I didn’t domaybe next time. Kept going up to SemiAhmoo area– went swimming here last time. A few people swimming when I arrived. And they stayed there a long time. You can take a ferry here too (weekends only) across the very short water way to the City of Blaine. Funny thing is- a little further south there’s the city or community of Alger. Blaine & Alger were the two main intersecting streets where I lived in Grand Rapids MI as a child. They are etched in my mind forever. You can also see across the water to Canada and the city of White Rock. I used to drive across Canada every now & then and explore our neighboring country to the northsometimes crossing at Detroit. Another time crossing at the far east location I think Vermont- and drove all the way across to Washington State to go to a wedding in Olympia. But last time I crossed was around the time of the winter Olympics in Vancouver Canada and it was a bit of a hassle. I did get across but it wasn’t a pleasant experience with the Canadian border guard. And NOW it’s even more of an ordeal with the vaccine requirement. I am NOT vaxxed and am proud to be a “pure blood.” But it means I cannot drive into Canada or across as I hoped to do someday to Alaska. Will the vax requirement be forever? After SemiAhmoo I drove
over to Blaine and the marina and looked around walked the docks a bit some cool boats there. TONS of crabbing boats too. Crab traps laying around everywhere–stacked on top of each other.
Thursday September 1 2022 9am mass in Bellingham. 10am over to Whatcom Park did a 6-mile hike along the edge of the water a beautiful hike- not too busy. Lots of the ubiquitous wild raspberries everywhere (& the thorns of course too). This used to be a train track back in the late 1800’s. They cleaned it up pretty good not many remnants of the track remaining. After the hike I took a snorkel/swim and saw some decent-size fish in the deep section. Thought maybe I could catch them – so went back to the car and got my fishing pole. Tried for a while but no luck. Not sure what kind of bait they like just used a general purpose glitter lure & a few other things. But couldn’t let it drop down too deep knowing there’s so much driftwood trees on the bottom waiting to snag anything.
Friday September 2 2022 7am blood donation. Employee named Joy was nice. I didn’t see blue hair Jory this time. They were concerned about my low pulse (below 50) and had me talk to the nurse. They said it might just be that I have an “athletic pulse” the nurse asked me if I exercise a lot. I said lately a lot of hiking and swimming. She re-checked my pulse by hand and now it was 54 so she approved me to donate. Even if it remained below 50 they could approve it as an “athletic pulse” with a little extra paperwork. The donation went quickly and I was able to make it to 9am mass. Then I took a walk at Boulevard Park- the water is fairly clear- wondered about going snorkeling- but the water is pretty cold although that doesn’t bother me- more of a concern was too many of the boring conformist “looky loos” who just stroll around and drink coffeethe type that make you feel embarrassed to do anything “out of the norm.” They try to make you feel stupid or crazy for doing something that takes a little more guts or gumption than just walking the dog.
Onward back to Padden Lake for a swim in the relatively warm lake. Then I took a hike on the other end that I haven’t done yet it starts near the dog park. Some big trees here. Part of it actually gets pretty close to the 5 freeway. Lady with an aggressive dog - started barking at me- she said it was my walking stick that makes the dog do it. Later I was taking a break- sitting down and another couple with a dog approached– and the dog grabbed my long walking stickabout 6-feet long- that I had just picked up to help me go up hill. Funny watching the dog running around with this huge branch. I told the couple that they could have it the hike was almost over and it was all downhill now. Grilled my own cheeseburgers for dinner. Early sleep.
Saturday Sept 3 930 am took a walk along the creek in downtown Bellingham. Didn’t know such a nice river walk was here. Including waterfalls. Idyllic. But then there’s homeless camps right there as well. Bellingham is very kind towards the homeless. But I notice there is some animosity by some employees here and there- so that they sometimes assume everybody who isn’t working there is some sort of vagrant. I guess they expect you to wear a suit or something to prove you’re not homeless. Not gonna do that. The reason I am here today in this area was to go to the Whatcom Museum which opens at 10. And I am there right as they open the door. Pay the $10 admission. Chat with the lady briefly– then do the self- tour. It’s in the old city hall a historic building. Lots of different exhibits including a music history exhibit highlighting some of the local musicians who became well known especially Death Cab for Cutie. I know that name and at least one of their songs. The name of the group always intrigued me. Later finally researched it– has something to do with an old Beatles Sgt Pepper movie-. They also have a nice taxidermy exhibit. Funny. There’s actually 2 buildings housing the one museum. The other one is back over by the librarycalled the Lightcatcher building. They were in the midst of changing exhibits– so only one small section open– a permanent exhibit re the local native-Americans. After the museum I take my daily swim at
Padden Lake wearing my glasses this time- that makes a different perspective - and I saw bald eagles overhead this time at least 2 circling. Didn’t see them dive-bomb for any fish though. More cheeseburgers for dinner! So good. 5pm Saturday evening vigil mass at the bigger Catholic church- Assumption. They don’t have daily mass here- only weekend. Same priest here as when I visited a year ago.
Sunday September 4 back to Church of the Assumption for 8am mass. Then I found Christ the King church for 10am service this is one of those CCM mega churches (always start out with about 20 minutes of Christian Contemporary Music – with everybody standing- and often the same songs used over and over and over again- it’s almost like a “formula” that you find in almost every mid-size city now with a big auditorium in a regular building- not shaped like a traditional church. It’s the repetitive music that annoys me. Why can’t they play new music every week? They must have done some research to suggest most people like predictability to a certain extent. Most is not everybody. The sermon was better. After church I went over to Bellis Fair Mall- walked thru it- making a video. One cool store was a video arcade including pinball machines. I’m hanging around the area because I have a 1pm blood donation appointment. Also found a store selling butane fuel that I need for my portable stove. Used to be $5 bucks for 4 cans. This place has jacked it up to $12 bucks. Ridiculous. The problem is it’s an Asian market (for some reason only Asian markets sell butane) and there was NO PRICE TAG on it so when I asked “how much” the gal yells over to the Asian owner in their foreign language to decide on the spot what price to charge me. I know I’m getting ripped off. But the owner comes over and says in his broken English that it’s “Biden’s fault… everything has gone up in price.” Well, there’s some definite truth to that but I don’t think this item should have doubled in price. He says if I find it cheaper he will refund the difference. But I don’t have time to go shopping around for butane to save $6 dollars. From there I go to my blood donation and
almost immediately after I get hooked up there’s a problem. They tell me it’s a machine problem and that I’m done for the day but I will still get full compensation. That’s nice. At least they are honest. Since I got out early I decide to start towards the big hike I was tentatively planning for some time the upcoming week but why not tomorrow - Labor Day? My one concern is that it will be too busy.
I’m planning on doing Cascade Pass trail which I hear is the “most hiked trail” in the north Cascades even though it’s pretty far out there - and requires a drive on a rough dirt road for a little while to get there. So I head southward towards Burlington. Also looked for a place with free air for my tires. Not always easy to find but some places you can rely upon including Pilot truck stations - as well as various tire shops - and Costco which used nitrogen rather than regular air in the tires. Apparently there’s some small advantage to using nitrogen-something to do with the size of the molecules- and apparently doesn’t cost them more than air I guess. Otherwise I assume they’d be charging for it. So I pull into the nearby Costco tire station and a guy actually fills up all my tires. I try to give him a tip $ but he declines. Thanks. Oh, by the way, Les Schwab tires also does free tire plugs or patches but if they are really busy it could be a long wait.
I also found a place to refill a few water bottles- always a concern when traveling to have a regular supply of drinking water. You can always but it at supermarkets for about $1 a gallon. Or refill water bottles in machines at the same markets for.50 cents/ gallon. But I try to find free water as much as possible. There are maps and apps online dedicated to this as well. Sometimes helpful. Often not very up-to-date they rely upon user participation to make it work. Libraries and parks often have water fountains- and I found a park in Burlington to refill, slowly. It can take 5 minutes or so in some cases to fill a 1 gallon jug depending on the water flow of some drinking fountains. Not many places have open taps that you would find on the sides of homes etc that can fill a jug in a few seconds.
And most business have locking taps on the sides of their buildings. After the water refill I head eastward on highway 20 towards the trailhead – the turnoff is near Marblemount. Pass thru Sedro Wooley, City of Concrete, the beautiful aqua-colored Skagit River cast my line for a while there wading in the ice cold water. A few other fishermen out there also. Some in rafts. I was thinking about using my fly rod but when I pulled it out I noticed the reel is bent–not sure how that happened. It’s unusable as is. Something heavy apparently rested on it for a while causing a significant indentation in the cast iron reel. Bizarre. I might be able to bend it back maybe I’ll work on it later. For now I go back to my traditional rod/reel. No luck. A little east of the fishing area is a rest stop that I was planning on for a night sleep. No cellular connection. I fall asleep quickly but periodically wake up thru the night to the sound of pitter-patter on the roof it’s raining.
Monday September 5 Labor Day Rise early around 5am - hit the road- not far to the trailhead in terms of mileage but you have to drive slowly on the dirt road- Finally arrived and hit the trail around 720 am still a bit dark mostly because the sun isn’t peeking thru the clouds. It’s kind of misty too. Not raining though. Tons of switchbacks to start the hike. They could have created this trail with half the amount of switchbacks in some places they are extremely close to each other. A few gung ho hikers pass me right away. Later I pass some of them. The trail to Sahale glacier is about 6 miles each way and almost 4000 elevation. It goes quick going up. And then I actually missed the turn off to Sahale Arm- went on the Stehenkin trail for a while turns out to be a “good mistake” - some good views– and I get away from the maddening crowd. Later I realize the mistake and turn back adding an extra 2 miles to the hike- but I do not feel tired (yet). Back on the Sahale trail it goes quickly again and I here’s Doubtful Lake- a beautiful pond down below with a little island. There’s a trail to it as well but most people are here to see the glacier up above. Me too.
Little further along there’s a mama mountain goat with a baby grazing right by the trail. They don’t seem overly concerned by the presence of hikers. Even a few more beyond that. Coming back I met a group from France- 2 guys 2 girls - very polite and nicestruck up a brief conversation they actually are living in San Francisco didn’t get the details as to why maybe students? They chat to one another in French but speak perfect English when talking to me. It’s a clear blue sky day now! Beautiful day. Going back down the switchbacks seem to take forever. Finally make it back to the parking lot. Back on the road. Strange lady as I leave. Dangerous WA driver passes me on the way back towards Burlington. For such a rural area it’s amazingly high- traffic – and the locals just want to speed and pass. I find a road on the other side of Skagit River that is much less trafficked- and enjoy a slow drive back. Sleep.
Tuesday September 6 slept in a little bit. Feeling a bit sore – it definitely took a toll on my feet and legs just need a day of recovery- drink a bunch of liquids. Stop at Fred Meijers- pick up some groceries -including powerade with electrolytes. Go to the Burlington Library. I ask for a visitor computer pass. The lady wasn’t very friendly. They think every visitor is some sort of potential bum I guess. It’s a self-serving antagonistic attitude. And its Tuesday discount movie so I find a local theatre– this one is an AMC at the mall - not a lot of great choices. #PrayTheMovies: I choose a foreign animated film called “Dragon Ball.” Sometimes these foreign films are surprisingly refreshing. This one’s not bad. Dubbed into English- not subtitles. Here are my notes: There’s a Dr Hedo in jail –he’s a mastermind in pharmaceuticals– he has a drone bee that protects him and does surveillance for him. And then there’s a “bad guy” who wants to hire Dr. Hedo to do some dirty work for him. And they pick him up just as he’s getting released from prison. The problem for the bad guys is that Dr. Hedo despite having done some wrongdoing is actually motivated to do well. But he’s also a little greedy.
So he accepts the offer of the bad guy because he can line his pockets for his own future inventions. And there’s a cast of other characters including the Eternal Dragon who gives people 3 wishes anything they want. Meanwhile there’s Gohan who’s a good guy but he’s distracted by his own research but the bad guy kidnaps his daughter– waking him out of his slumber. Now he’s ready to fight again. An epic battle. And the bad guy doesn’t realize that some of his henchman are only helping him because they think he is dedicated to good. When they realize he’s bad they switch sides. Then there’s Pan the daughter of super powers. And there’s “cell max” – who the bad guy activates to fight against the good guys. And there’s a special “beam cannon.” Gohan eats a power bean for extra fighting power. Dr. hedo repents after he realizes what’s happening. He switches over to the good side. #PrayTheMovies: We can defeat Satan when we are unified as the body of Christ. United we stand, divided we fall. The cellular connection is sketchy around Burlington. Sometimes I have it. Sometimes I don’t. That seems to be the case everywhere around greater Seattle which is ironic because this is the home of T-Mobile. And I use T-Mobile so you would think they would have excellent cell coverage around their home base. BUT THEY DON’T.
Wednesday Sept 7 2022: to La Connor. Here’s the “rainbow bridge” listed as one of the “things to do” for this area I thought it was painted in rainbow colors but it’s not. It’s just shaped like a rainbow. There’s a big salmon statue in the nearby park. Looks like it was also a slide at one time you could slide down the fish tube, but now it’s roped off- not allowed.. You can also see Mt. Baker from here. Stopped in at the free art museum in downtown La Connor- nice little place- some interesting art. The lady volunteer was originally from San Diego. Still has family there, but she doesn’t miss it. We talked briefly about the severe heat there at the moment. Real severe. Onward leaving La Connor. Towards Anacortes. Thru an area with pipelines and several gigantic gas companies. Also
March Point. Got gas for $3.74 - that’s a nice relief from the $4 and $5 per gallon prices almost everywhere else. Some impressive shipyards here in Anacortes. Cap Sante is a nice viewpoint. Great views. Cliff. 12noon. Stopped in at Anacortes Library, and then walked a block over to the Anacortes Museum housed in the original library building. Nice gal behind the desk. Tugboat beach at 230 - kind of cool. Onward to Deception Pass & State Park– the most visited of the WA state parks they say. Different trails hereincluding the Maiden of Deception statue and loop trail behind it (or her). But no Master of Deception Trail? There’s a long story that goes along with the Maiden of Deception- like an Aesop’s fable sort of. There’s also a 7th Day Adventist marine biology university here–right outside the state park entrance (Rosario Beach Marine Lab, associated with Walla Walla University).
Here’s Cranberry lake 415pm. Also big trees at Deception Pass. Lots of driftwood at West Beach. Do pickup drivers have a high need for power & control? Are they obsessive compulsive (OCD)? They are actually the opposite of the big strong truck- they are weak and wimpy and fearful and need their truck to make them feel strong. Sad. So Deception Pass SP goes on and on different sections and beaches. Here’s North Beach 424 pm. Beyond Deception Pass I pulled into a county beach (Moran’s) where several people were shore fishing– but not seeming to be catching anything. Navy fighter planes periodically roaring overhead from the nearby Navy Base (Naval Air Station Whidbey Island). Mariners lose to White Sox. I’m keeping an eye on the M’s- hoping they make the wildcard spot. Funny thing is about Washington is you might look at a place on the map and assume it’s rural and not too busy– but in some cases you might be totally wrong some of these island areas have some intense traffic in some cases maybe because of the military presence. Whatever the case may be it’s NOT relaxing. Oak Harbor is another NAS (Naval Air Station). Now Fort Ebey State Park – there’s a surfer here in the parking lot. They actually get waves big enough to surf around here? 550 pm.
Now arriving at Coupeville wild deer wandering around everywhere. And here’s Driftwood Park 634. Now Fort Casey – and I realize I’ve been here before (with Lola, long time ago I remember wandering around the fort and Lola going up the steps with me nobody else there at the time). There’s also supposedly a good “underwater park” here where they scuba– the “Keystone Jetty” - might be able to snorkel here too. Cold water – at warmest maybe 55 but I’ve done colder water bare skin - including Northern Cal and Oregon spots. I was thinking about going back towards Seattle on the Ferry eastward- but at the last moment I decided to take the ferry to Port Townsend – westward. Enjoyed the ferry across it’s been a while since I’ve done this. Only $12 bucks. Driving all the way around would be 100’s of miles and gallons of gas. Justin Barkeley from Grand Rapids is on the radio filling in for Glenn Beck. He frequently mentions WOOD radio and makes references to places in Holland and Grand Rapids. He also mentioned John Gibbs - the black conservative from Lansing who defeated Peter Meijer in the recent primary. Gibbs is no slouch. He went to Stanford and Harvard and calls himself a “missionary” (with World Venture) as well as having some computer software background. Meijer on the other hand was one of those who became anti-Trump along the way- and it seems to have hurt his popularity. Slept near the historic USPS in Port Townsend- one of the few places where I was able to get a 4G connection.
In the morning Thursday Sept 8 I drove thru Fort Worden, and then to the county park (North Beach) where a daily pass is not required. From there I walked the beach back towards Fort Worden and saw a few tiny starfish on the beach- already deceased so I saved them for my collection. Never seen starfish so small smaller than the palm of my hand. Then I went over to the historic downtown area– they are having their annual wood boat festival this weekend– and were getting set up. Several wooden boats already on display. Feisty little wannabe cowboy working on one of the boats
tried to boss me around. After walking around I go to the public library and around 2pm leave Port Townsend going south. Here’s the city of Port Hadlock, & Irondale. Now City of Chimacum 223pm. Port Ludlow 252pm sign re Ludlow Falls but all I see is an RV Park. I looked it up later there is an actual waterfall back there somewhere but not a lot of signage or parking for it. Looks like it’s somewhere behind an office called Port Ludlow Associates. Maybe next time. Also a marina here. Onward Shine Tidelands SP 308pm. Now Shine Tidelands SP 308 not much signage for this either and not much here. The “primitive road” ends at a primitive boat ramp with a bunch of rowboats docked on the “beach.”
That’s the thing about Washington State Parks whether big or small or just barely a dot on the map they call everything a “state park”- so you never know for sure what it’s all about until you get there. Goodbye Seven Sisters Road. Onward: Fort Gamble has a nice old town 324pm. Now Bloedel Reserve– had this starred on my map from some time ago must have seen a review about it but when I drove up I find out you need a ticket reserved in advance to hike here - so this is a mansion estate with trails - saw some pics online -looks nice. Maybe next time. Onward - still on Bainbridge Island- now 405pm- lots of nooks & crannies here. The island was named in recognition of Commodore William Bainbridge who was famous from the War of 1812. I see a sign for Fay Bainbridge Park and I need a break from driving so I follow the signs farther than I thought finally pull into the park on the bay with a view of Mt. Ranier- nice picture spot- although it’s a bit hazy. Apparently on a clear day you can see both Baker & Rainier from here. There’s a ferry station here on Bainbridge Island also to Seattle. There’s a high school row team coming out of the water at the park 605p. Sign says “The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” And here’s the Japanese Exclusion Memorial 616pm- getting dark. And here’s Fort Ward and an underwater park here as well. I drove around one section I felt like
I was driving on the sidewalk thru a neighborhoods front yard I was expecting somebody to yell angrily at me but it’s the actual road. Nothing illegal. And here’s a sign for Nute’s Pond Park– I drove up the wrong road at first and it was actually a long driveway ending in a gated fence that automatically swung open as I neared it but I realized this is a house not a park - and managed to turn around. Toe Jam Hill road? And here’s tiny Lyttle Beach- a nice surprise. Have to come back here some time. Also Gazzam Nature Preserve. I’ve been listening to 98.1 FM all day– nice classical station. Suquamish /Indianola tribe here. Also “Old Man’s House” park. And here’s the Naval Undersea Warfare Center ((NUWC Division Keyport). And Island Lake Park (mostly lily pads). Is this still Kitsap County? Poulsbo Fish Park supposed to be good fishing. Finally I got a 4G connection here. City of Bremerton and ferry station. This is also where the praying football coach caused all the controversy and won his court case! Now I lost 4G. Found a place to park. Arose early Friday Sept 9 2022 Thru Gig Harbor quaint marina. And Port Orchard where Clancey Phillips the tow truck driver lives. Got gas at the 7-11 for $3.78 - with 10 cent discount. went over the historic Tacoma bridge paid the $5 toll - kept going all the way to Puyallup – where it’s a free day at the Washington State Fair and includes a parade today the “Stampede Parade” with some cows and calves walking thru the street as well as a few marching bands and floats etc. They also ask attendees to bring school supply donations so I picked up a few things at the Meyers before parking for the fair. Inside the fair I enjoyed the “hip hop juggler” from NYC. Also the Little Mermaid skit. Free chocolate milk the lady didn’t laugh at my joke about chocolate milk coming from brown cows. She was a meanie. I tried joking twice and she remained stone faced. There was another meanie at the archery exhibit. I took my pics. Made my videos and then I wandered out of there. Went to the Puyallup library for a while. Onward not a big
fan of this area. Passed by the Angle Lake area. Warm day in the 80’s.
Saturday Sept 10 something about oliveTree.org on the radio - they have some interesting religious material. Made it to St. James, and in the morning drove around arboretum found place to park for the University of Washington game versus Portland State. Parked near Interlaken Park- walk a mile- first time inside the impressive UW stadium and all the fanfare surrounding it. It is surrounded by the Montlake Cut and Lake Washington on one side and lots of people arrive in boats or party in their boats for the whole game. UW boasts of their stadium being the “greatest setting in college football” and they may be right. I can’t think of anyplace else that is SO impressive. And this should be an easy win for the Huskies. And it is: final score 52-6. Not very high attendance for this game. Lots of empty seats. I watched from a spot where I could see the boats as well. Noticed a sheriff doing safety inspections during the game. That’s a bummer. Also enjoyed the UW hall -of-fame before the game and got a free sample of watermelon coke from a nice gal. After the game I walked back the same route and stopped in at the Montlake branch library uploaded some of the videos I made of the game. Still having difficulty getting a data connection- relying on Wi-Fi mostly. Which is strange because the Seattle area (Bellevue to be exact) is the home of T-Mobile– which is my service provider. You would think that around their corporate headquarters they would be pretty well covered. But they’re not. In some places I can’t even make a phone call. Unbelievably, also in college football today, Notre Dame lost to Marshall University: “The Thundering Herd.” Sunday Sept 11 I went to every single mass at St. James today (8, 10, 12, 530). Learned a LOT. And ALSO to the Frye Museum. Have a nice day. Then after evening mass at St. James I walked to the 711 for a refreshing drink coming back - a strange gal. NFL scores: Vikings defeat Packers (I’m still rooting for Kirk Cousins). Buccaneers defeat Cowboys. Rams lost on Thursday.
Monday September 12 8am back at St. James, then 10am at Beacon Library now they’re doing road work - can’t park in parking lot. A long hair eccentric comes in and sits across from me and starts combing his fingers thru his long gray hair with a lady-like socalled “man bun” on top. Never liked that style.. It feels like he’s looking for an audience. I pull my hat down. What’s the deal with pseudo sophisticates at the library– laughing to themselves as they watch something on the computer=-- as if something is SO FUNNYso freakin hilarious. This happened at Sunnyvalle a few months ago too. It’s a dysfunctional coping or defense mechanism of some sort. Decided to try to get a ticket to the Monday Night Football NFL game: Seahawks vs Broncos- the return of Russel Wilson! This is a big one for Seattle emotional. Found a decent priced ticket at TickPick and I’m ready to go! Don’t go to many NFL games: I’ve been to a few Chargers games back when they played in San Diego. Also a Rams game when they played at Angels Stadium. Been to a Raiders game in Oakland. I think that’s about it. So add Seattle to the list. Also been to a few training camps: including Chargers, Rams, Broncos, Cowboys, & Seahawks (last summer). So I walk to the game lots of pre-game festivities then I enter the stadium also pretty cool- not sure why Seahawks couldn’t work something out to play at UW field (I guess they did for a while). And the Seattle fans booed Russel Wilson as he emerged from the tunnel. And for the rest of the game. And they say Seahawks fans are some of the loudest in the NFL I can vouch for that almost deafening. Wow! Here I am inside Lumen Stadium. Here’s KJ Wright a fan favorite. I guess he does a radio show now. They’re handing out free lime green towels as we enter. Aloe Blacc does the national anthem, plus a military flyover by the Oregon National Guard. Seahawks come out strong first half but Broncos actually have better numbers in most of the categories all except the final score: 17-16. Doesn’t get any closer than that. Hawks had at least 2 big goal line stands . Lots of criticism of Broncos coach Nathaniel Hackett for trying for a 64yard field goal at the end instead of trying to get closer. From where
I watched the game I could also see the Bainbridge Ferry coming and going. Great game. Pretty fun.
Tuesday Sept 13 8am St. James, 9am blood arrival, no 4G again. Very busy. At least they have Wi-Fi. Afterwards: laundry. Same yug inside the entire time, also man with dog/pickup friendly dog kept sticking his head out as I went in and out– patted his head a few times.. Chaplet of Divine Mercy (Drew Mariani). I keep flashing back to what I call the “bad axis” people in Grand Rapids a small group who didn’t really belong in our community they arrived at Calvin College from other places and then they stayed despite having no real affinity for the community–they just were brash and overbearing=-taking advantage of the niceties of the CRC community. Just opportunists. It perturbs me every time I think about it. How they took advantage of our community. And there’s nothing I can do about it– if they won’t repent and humble themselves– which doesn’t seem likely. An Asian couple in the laundromat was having trouble with the change machine I tried to help them. After laundry, went to Walmart in Renton I only go there now for cans of veggies which are usually 50 cents- otherwise I try to NOT do business there because of their support for abortion. Lots of Muslim ladies working at this Walmart with their faces covered. From there I go to the Renton Library. 4G is sketchy around here too.
Wednesday Sept 14 730 am mass at St. Anthony. It’s a “feast day” for St. John Chrysostom (“golden mouth”). And then to McDonalds all Vietnamese working there. One of the glass doors was shattered. From Renton to Bellevue – stop in at Art Museumits ok- kind of small- then I walked across to the mall- nice mall. Made a few videos. Polestar. 2 ladies. Lego, Nordstrom, Macy’s, new shoes. Then over to the big park on Lake Washington- hoped to take a swim but the beach was closed due to high bacteria. This is a regular problem at the various beach parks around Seattle. They regularly close and re-open all summer depending on the water
quality. I’m on the email list so I get an update every time it happens. From there I drive towards Kirkland and find a place for the evening.
Thursday Sept 15 attend mass at the Kirkland catholic. Not sure who the priest is- new? Guest? Cardinal? Dressed in red. Then to the McDonalds– lazy worker there. Heading northward again– go thru Everett– stop in at their library. They have a cool model of the Titanic on display. Also walked thru the Art Space down the way. Drove past the Twin Peaks house. Also the arboretum, and the equator boat from the 1800’s (which Robert Louis Stevenson was a passenger on at one point). Spencer Island Park - took a walk out to the island kind of neat some people picking berries. A row team practicing. Onward thru Marysville (BHB Church & Park) *BHB= Been Here Before. Near Lake Stevens (BHB, swam here). Arlington Swinging Bridge (BHB). Granite Falls (BHB). Staying on highway 9 north (hwy 20 reopens after landslide closure). Now Hwy 538 into Mount Vernon (there is a dairy farm where one of the ones I mentioned as part of the “bad axis” grew up and she is now a brash overbearing type still living in GR having ruined our little hometown). They have a high point here they call “Little Mountain.” Also the Skagit River. Past the Big Lake and the special golf course I remember.
Friday Sept 16 9am Sacred Heart mass. $3.94 gas fill up- that’s a good price. Back road to gas station. Thru Lummi reservation area. Made blood donation at 12 noon. Blue hair Jory walked by me and nodded. I can’t figure her out. Afterwards a swim at Lake Paddenstarting to cool down - looking at YouTube - I see that this lake freezes in the winter and they ice skate on it. Looks fun. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if9ihjOQruI. Library Wi-Fi. Chicken on the grill- good. Saturday Sept 17 early rise to go hike Yellow Aster trail – arrive -still dark- sleep a few hours. Start hiking around 720 am. Cool morning. This is a great hike– not as busy as Cascade Pass- but does get busy enough. And more colorful so bright &
brilliant. Wow. And at the top there are numerous “tarns” (little mountain lakes or water holes). No goats here that I noticed. Did see a big marmot. Lots of hikers had their dogs with them. Wish I had Lola. Nice ranger- talked a bit in passing. One hiker had his rifle with a scope sounded like a military guy says he could hunt bear or deer. Hmm. Looked like a sniper. And a gal running the trail- she looped me– I said “Wow, you must have some strong legs” she stopped and talked –nice. -- said she was this was her “last hoorah”- because she’s moving out of the state. She’s not the only gal running the trails around here I’ve seen several- pretty gung ho.
Sunday Sept 18 9am Cornwall Church– like this big mega churchBob Marvel preaching. They also play their own original music. 11:15 back over to CTK church (Christ The King) - not as comfortable here. The pastor asked us to pray for one another near the end– and I just didn’t feel comfortable with it– I feel like I’ve transcended the average every day type of “prayer” you see people doing. I’m praying literally without ceasing inside my head and also in my new #PrayerBook. The average prayer seems mundane to me. I can pray for all the members of CTK from afar but not faceto-face on demand inside the sanctuary. That’s too clumsy and insufficient. After CTK I go to Lake Padden for a swim. Then from Bellingham to Burlington stop in at the Haggen a wretched clerk watches me like a hawk at self-checkout. Some Washington people are a little too hawkish and even cocky at times. The humble ones are nice. Onward I go for my next big hike: destination Maple Pass Trail first stop at Ladder Falls BHB - walk around a bit cast my line could see some gigantic fish down below but they weren’t interested. Talked to a lady as she walked by–she said she grew up on a fish hatchery where her dad worked. Seattle City Lights workers live here too. Slept near the Thunder Creek Trailhead. No problems.
Monday Sept 19 7am I’m at Maple Pass trailhead- it’s a fun trail–first stop at Lake Ann- a mile side trail- upward looking down on
it. You can see Lewis Lake in the distance too separate trail. Later there is Rainy Lake (BHB). Great views near and far. It’s a fun trail– not too grueling. Not too busy since it’s a Monday. But busy enough. Tired enough too. Hike note: solo gal with dog at top. Stone cold grim dude at beginning. “Yup” gal near end. Supercilious couple near top (“it’s a loop trail.” Duh really. I just stumbled in here and don’t know where I am). Finished around 1pm. Stopped in at overlook. A few jerks in the parking lot. Long downhill. Near Winthrop I saw a black bear eating berries by the side of the road looked like a shadow at first nobody else seemed to notice. When I slowed down to try to get a picture a motorcycle roared by and the bear scurried away. Even in the country people drive as fast as if they are on the way to an important meeting. I’ve deduced over time that this sort of urgent driving is a self-serving mechanism- a form of daily cycle of self-righteousness re-activation. City of Twisp. City of Methow. And Methow River. Alta State park. Lake Wells Dam, apple trees, migrants, box houses, City of Chelan, City of Entiat. Bighorns here? Sleep in Wenatchee.
Tuesday, Sept 20 McDonalds Wenatchee, Lowe’s videos. Nice drive along Columbia River. I wrote “Not a Californian” on my back window for the truckers who make derogatory assumptions about those with CA plates. High winds -Wenatchee to QuincyColumbia River. Sign says “Crop names in Fence Line.” City of Quincy 955am., Send text message to Jim Lin. Sunday day eastern Washington. Past the turnoff for Gorge Amphitheatre. Here’s the Gorge Viewpoint turnoff strange thing there were 4 Latinos taking pictures here but they had no car and no backpacks or anything. How did they get here? IT’s right along the freeway-not an easy place to walk to. City of Vantage hwy 243. Wanupam Dam 1055, Beverly Railroad Bridge 11am, City of Schwana, City of Mattawa 1105, City of Desert Aire (priest rapids rec area).
#PrayTheNews: Puerto Rico Hurricane, Migrants Martha Vineyard, Hanford Reach National Monument, will come back
here for the Manhattan Project tour. Tim Keller on the radio. Now Chip Ingram (LivingOnTheEdge.org). I met his son also a preacher–at a high school church in the bay area. Richland Pasco. 1pm synchronicity. Blood donation. Gal named America. #PrayTheMovies: “Woman King” Mahi? West Africa. Dahomey kingdom, ghezo king, slave trade, oyo bad. Agodjie women. Vs Oyo slave traders “King Gezo came to power in 1818, following a coup d’état against his half-brother King Adandozan. In 1823, when the film’s action takes place, the British had already abolished their slave trade, and were putting pressure on West African states and European and American countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Brazil to end their own. Brazil had declared independence from Portugal in 1822, but continued actively importing enslaved Africans, including from Ouidah. Meanwhile, Dahomey had been paying tributes to the Kingdom of Oyo (a state located in today’s southwestern Nigeria) since 1748.* In 1823, under Gezo’s rule, Dahomey fought a war against Oyo and eventually succeeded in ridding itself of the tributes. This is the action that’s portrayed in the film.” https://slate.com/culture/2022/09/woman king movie true story dahomey amazons slave trade.html . Fierce female fighters. True story. Not allowed to marry. “Fighting is not magic, it’s a skill” woman leader realizes new fighter is her long lost daughter. Cross necklace? Fairfield cinema- nice atmosphere Tri-cities. No Tuesday discount. Guy said “We’re trying to bring it back…” Theatre almost empty. One other. Blood oath. The gal was given to a missionary family instead of being _. Portuguese visitors. Beautiful swimming pool below the Agodjie village. “Relentlessly we will fight” good scene. Pray for the persecuted. BT BTBTBTBTBTBTBTBTBTBTB (yes this is purposeful & is meaningful, to me).
Wednesday Sept 21 8am mass one of the priests here was recently accused of criminal activity just read about it in the news. Gas for $4.19, $80 fill up. Thought: “You cannot be a default Christian.” Mid-Columbia library #1 & Kennewick branch #2. Spent time composing. As I’m sitting in the library I over hear a conversation by a patron asking another patron about psychology they chat
about Jesus and then Buddhism, etc. I like the roundabouts in Kenewick much better than full stop signs or traffic lights. Trying to get a $10 refund for tracfone- they don’t make it easy. Finally got it. Stopped in at Fed Ex Office to make some evangelical copies: turned into a fiasco. Their machine didn’t work. They tried to blame me. She tried to do it behind the desk. She messed up. She apologized. Did I get overcharged? Now at Richland Library–nauseatingly “woke” display in the entry way. Guy playing chess with his son. Up to 2nd floor. Sat a while. Found a holiday inn for the night. 4G yes. Thursday 9/22/22 8am mass at Christ the King Richland- nice building. 9am Fred Meyer- bread/avocado, 10am. Chamna Nature preserve surprise gem- including wild grapes! Also nice river took brief swim after walk. This is the Yakima River drains into the Columbia. Clean and clear. Good temp. Amon Park 12 noonalso nice – on the Columbia- lots of green grass, open space, normal people. Drove up the way– passed by the Manhattan Project offices where I will be tomorrow for the tour. Several nice parks along the Columbia River. Back to Amon Park. Now there’s a huge paddlewheel tour boat at the dock. Cast line- waded chest highcooled off. Friday Sept 23 back at Manhattan Project NPS (National Park) headquarters about 20 people here for the tour. Brief introduction by fellow who worked here for 20 years as a nuclear engineer (after the historic era). We board the bus- head towards Reactor B. nice bus, not an s school bus. It’s a 40 minute drive- we arrive at a fairly nondescript building with a smoke stack - and walk inside first impression-wow- looks so complex. Cool. Another fellow gives us some more information. Then we are allowed to roam around and see the different displays. This is where they literally created the plutonium that went into “little boy” that was dropped on Hiroshima August 6, 1945 from the plane called Enola Gay (google searches result in some confusion between little boy vs fat man. Some say “fat boy” or “little man” etc). But the main thing is that this is where the plutonium was developed for the bombs that ended World War II. After the tour I make another blood donation
(didn’t like either of the people I interacted with: Agnes & Brandon (both Asians with attitudes).
Saturday Sept 24 leaving Tri-Cities to Pullman for the Washington State football game. Palouse Scenic Highway is a nice surprise. There’s a nice waterfall not far from here wish I had time to go see it. Maybe next time. City of Kahlotus. City of Washtucna. City of Dusty 850. City of Colfax 930am. Arriving in Pullman - waited to last moment to find a ticket- good strategy prices went down got one for $23 - they play Oregon- and what a thriller it turns out to be with Oregon edging the Cougars 44-41. Got some good video clips including a 95-yard interception pick-6 by WSU. I like the WSU fans- down to earth-seem like pretty good people in general. Their stadium is not as idyllic as WU but good enough. I moved seats a few times- finally found a decent spot. It’s nice going to a game where you don’t have a favorite team– no tension. You just want to see a competitive match. The only disappointment was the overly “woke” halftime presentation. 4G is a bit sketchy around here. Stayed at the Marriot Courtyard for the night.
Sunday Sept 25 715 am went to Catholic mass at Sacred Heart. Nice environment. Good preacher/priest. Amusing bug moment. McDonalds. Text TT12. 1030- Living Faith Fellowship church was a nice surprise. Phil Vance preaching. Felt comfortable here. Onward to Moscow Idaho. Passing by University of Idaho never heard of it before their mascot is “The Vandals” - very cool. Nice campus too. Drove around. Explored Moscow city for a while- pretty small. #PrayTheNews: Sports: NFL Vikings defeat Lions, Bucs defeat Packers, and Seahawks lose. Jags over Chargers. Rams defeat Cardinals. Broncos edge 49ers 11-10. Yesterday college upsets: Tex A&M defeated Arkansas. Tex Tech defeated TX Longhorns. MLB Dodgers keep winning - not red hot but BLUE HOT. Seems like Idaho has a little better 4G than WA.
Monday Sept 26 8am WInCo Foods is a nice chain of grocery stores. Bought some cabbage, red pepper, cucumber, chili, soup, shredded cheese, bananas, veggie juice, apple juice, tomato, etc. now driving south towards Boise. All systems go. First stop: City of Lewiston 9am. Put air in tires. Stopped at USPS- guy mowing post office lawn asked me if I was going fishing. He saw my fishing pole thru the window. I hadn’t thought much of it but he told me the fish are running. We chatted about fishing for a little while. Maybe I’ll give it a try. Need to go to Fed Ex with this package (returning phone). It’s near the Lewiston Airport. Drop it off at 940 am. Then I go over to the river (s) this is actually where the Clearwater & Snake Rivers merge. I found a nice spot by the historic bridge and cast my line for a while. Nice day. Lots of fishermen in boats. Onward driving starting to see signs for “hells gate state park” here it is- requires fee of $14 to enter. So this is the Hells Canyon area– and we will be going that way- I don’t like the name but it is what it is– apparently named as such because it is the lowest canyon in North America. And there’s also Heaven’s Gate coming up!
#PrayTheNews: 15 killed in Russia school shooting. Took back road back to main highway becomes a primitive road near Mann Lake which I passed but didn’t see a turnoff for access to the lake. Doesn’t look worth searching for anyways. I always try to take the “scenic route” and learn more about the communities I pass thru–rather than treat them like “fly over” areas. Emerge near City of Lapwai (Indian reservation?). Nez Perce County. City of Culdesac 1240 - cool mile-long abandoned train covered with graffiti and plants growing out of it. What’s the back story behind this? Can’t find anything online. Winchester Lake 110pm. Eating salad as I drive. Using spaghetti sauce for dressing. Not bad. Did I invent something new? Lots of geese at Winchester Lake. There’s a state park here too other side requires fee- despite nobody being there this time of year– they pay somebody hourly to sit in the entry booth. City of Craigmont 159pm. Smoke? Wildfire? I smell it. Lawyer Creek. Idaho County 205pm, near Cottonwood Butte Ski
Area. City of Cottonwood 220pm. Sign for St. Gertrude’s Monastery. Sign for Weis Rockshelter looks like they have petroglyphs here. City of Grangeville 245pm medium size. More smoke. Shoo fly. This fly has been hitchhiking for a long time. Can’t get rid of it. I took the turnoff to Tolo Lake– sign says something about “mammoth site” - turns out to be a pond with algae– apparently at some point in time they found mammoth bones near here. 3pm Looks like the farmers intentionally burn their fields around here. Great hill down into White Bird-. Big sign for Hells Canyon. White Bird is an old cowboy town, plus a historic battlefield which I drive out to see. You can hike a few miles there’s a creek here too- but it’s excessively hot today. One car in the lot- with an Iowa plate. There’s a hay farm next to it. Drive over to the nearby Salmon River –found a place to swim- nice- refreshing - 445 pm. Back on the road a house cat is inspecting road kill as I drive by. Joseph’s Plain. Refreshing dip. Cool down. Hammer Creek. Pittsburg Landing. Skook-omChuck cast my line here found a remote control device for remote control boat. - looked something like this (link) https://www.amainhobbies.com/pro boat 2.4ghz transmitter prb18007/p469074?gclid=CjwKCAjw7p6aBhBiEiwA83fGug82GRzbhp4DRg7iMOWhqV3miIQN5lS7dlRggJA2GqeP1S6qEW7RWhoC n9wQAvD_BwE I thought about taking it with me maybe worth some money but figured maybe a kid or whoever would come back to find it– so I left it there. Looks like they cost about $30 dollars. This is a beautiful site with a sandy beach. Lucile Recreation Area 540 and old Lucile nice cliff jump spot. Jackass Flatt 544pm, also Fiddle Creek. Lightning creek 547. City of Riggins this is where there is supposed to be a turnoff towards Heaven’s Gate but I don’t see it. I keep going up to rest area– and consult the map –somehow I missed the turnoff. I drive back 5 miles and find it- the sign was down. I head up the road it’s paved at first supposed to be 18 miles but it becomes primitive after a while but not too rough-. Farms along the road, and a few homes. Sign says “Halfway to Heaven.” Funny. Now it’s getting dark – I find a safe place by the
side of the road and pull off for the night. So quiet and dark here. Beautiful night. I sleep well. This is also 7 Devils Road.
September 27 Tuesday. Onward four more miles- sun is rising. I come around a bend and there’s an elk with a huge rack startled it scrambles off the road much more frightened than some other elks in places. Finally make it to the top – the last half mile is more rough– almost decided to turn around- but it would actually be more difficult to turn around than to keep going - so I keep going very slowly. Don’t want to puncture a tire. Been there done that before. No fun changing a tire, anywhere for that matter. Finally! I’m here. I see a wildfire lookout tower in the distance– more upward- there’s a trail- I didn’t know there was a fire tower up here- nor that it was still being used to spot fires. There’s an employee on duty when I get there looking off into the distance at some smoke- and his wife is inside also. Nice couple. They invite me in to sign the guest book and look around- chat a while. There’s a lot of lakes up here too, they say although you can’t see any from here. He offers a trail map- I see an area called Tower of Babel, 7 Devils, Echo Lake, Mirror Lake, Basin Lake, Shelf Lake, Rock Island Lake, Sheep Lake, and Horse Heaven Point- among others on the map. I find one nearby lake - and it’s called 7 Devils Lake- so many Biblical references applied to geography around here. I cast my line a few times but doesn’t look too hopeful.
Back in the car I head down the road and suddenly there’s a pack of horses crossing say what? No human with them. I wonder if they are wild but then I notice some have shoes on. I get out and beckon them– and one comes over like a friendly dog. Definitely not wild. Fun to see. I love horses. Further down the road there’s a guy on a horse with a herd of cows he’s moving across the road. The Wild West! Back on the main road I take another turnoff this time to the fish hatchery- filled with baby salmon– thousands maybe even a million. Stop at rest area again. Refill water bottles. City of New Meadows 1pm- picked up a gigantic paper map of the Forest Service
roads around here- way too big to handle. I have a hike planned for nearby McCall but don’t want to start it mid day instead I decided to do the Hell’s Canyon road trip–would rather start earlier- but here I am got to do something. Sign for Zim’s Hot Springs - a commercial site, not natural. Something on my shoulder as I drive I do a double take it’s a big yellow jacket I try to flick it off as I’m driving– causing me to swerve a little- not too bad- but probably making some people wonder what’s going on. I thought about taking a forest service road to Hells Canyon save a bunch of milesbut the way is not clear and my gps only shows a dot not the actual roads I pass thru Fruitvale- sign says “Yes this is Fruitvale” 2pm. 2 guys standing by the sole store. Onward. City of Council 112pmcop parked exactly where speed limit decreases. City of Cambridge 238pm. “Gateway to hells canyon.” Briefly get 4G surprisingly. 319pm.
Dam #1 is Brownlee- entering Oregon. Back by the Snake River. Still 35 miles to Hell’s Canyon. Stunningly beautiful drive along the Snake. Now at Oxbow Dam 235- now 22 miles to Hells Canyon Dam. Back into Idaho. Payette NF. Here’s the Big Bar area, & Eckels Creek. and “Big Dry Gulch” and finally we arrive at the visitors center for the Hells Canyon Dam. Also a boat launch here for Hells Canyon Adventures. Their website has some cool pics could be a fun thing to do. Swim & cast line at Big Bar area. Fish jumping 530 to 6. Three pheasants. Two deer - mama & baby. Now two more deer. Missed the turn. Fish feeding on the surface of the snakecruising around like half-submerged submarines never seen anything like it. Now near Oxbow Reservoir wanted to pull in and look closer but gal exiting with kayak. She would be scared if I pulled in alone. Darn. It’s frustrating these days I have to be selfconscious about other people being fearful while hiking, walking, whatever. It doesn’t matter if it’s irrational or unfounded fear their fear trumps everything else. Now three deer crossing road –jammed on brakes. Great drive! Long day. Back to McCall- holiday inn. No 4G.
September 28 Wednesday 8am Ridleys has Wi-Fi. 9am Now driving towards Louie’s Lake- in the distance I see something in the road–as I get closer I realize it’s a herd of elk. And there’s a fence on both sides of the road keeping the cows in their pastures. The elk start to panic as I approach (slowly, not trying to scare them- but trying to get some pictures) – so they start jumping over the barbwire fence–most make it no problem- a few “bounce” over the top strand–probably doesn’t hurt their thick hide too much- but two of the smallest ones have trouble getting over. I just watch rooting for them to make it- and finally they all get over. Good for them! Great video too!
Now at the Louie’s Lake hike went down the wrong trail for a little ways– – suddenly I’m looking at a black face in the trees– thinking it’s a black bear– it doesn’t move– just stares. We have a stare down for a few moments. I move a little and then realize it’s a black calf a baby black cow. Wow-and it remained motionless the entire time I started thinking it was fake some kind of prank- until it finally blinked - a few feet forward I saw the mother cow– also staring the way cows do this must be a cow trail or something after a while I realize I am on a side path not the main trail to Louie’s Lake. Backtrack.
Onward. - fairly busy trail- for a Wednesday finally arrive at Louie’s Lake supposed to be a good fishing lake (stocked)=- and there are several anglers didn’t see anybody catching anything but I didn’t hang around for too long– I cast my line for about 10 minutes and then decided to keep going towards Boulder Lakebecause of my detour that caused an hour delay- a kid with a bunch of Illinois garb (hat, sweatshirt) walked by with his fishing pole. I should have known better but I teed him up with a fishing question: Catch anything? He started gabbing said he caught 2 yesterday- I asked what time? He said “One in the morning, one in the evening.” I accepted it at face value but then as we continued to converse he
said “It’s strange yesterday they were very active around this time when I caught them” -. It was noon now. I think I was getting a “fish story” (or a fishy story). He just said he caught them in the morning and evening and now he was saying he caught them around noon. Onward. Nice hike. Now looking down on Louie’s Lake. Passed by 3 talkative ladies- one of them had a bear bell I told them the story about the bear/cow. They laughed. Then another 3-some- some fellows– friendly- I confirmed with them that this is a loop trail, right? He showed me the map on his phone he had the Gaia appmaybe I should get that too. Shortly later I arrive at Boulder Lake I can see some fish near the edge a few other men fishing- one has a dog who keeps barking– doesn’t like being tied to the tree. Cast my line for a while- they’re inquisitive but not biting on what I’m offering them. That’s all I got. Onward. There’s a reservoir down below looks like it’s drying up more cows here grazing. On the road again– dirt road half way here.
Back to McCall- spend the night- my body muscles are seriously cramped. Guess I didn’t drink enough water as I hiked 2 big bottles not enough? Or salt? I really couldn’t move much for the next 10 hours or so. Just kept guzzling water with extra salt added. Not much 4G around here- Wi-Fi in a few places. Les Schwab is one reliable place for free strong Wi-Fi. And it rained most of the night. Free car wash. Thursday Sept 29 4. #PrayTheNews: Hurricane Ian is hitting Florida a big one. Prayers for them. I pick up some groceries at the McCall Albertsons: - hamburger, white milk (rare for me)! Powerade, cliff bar, bananas, etc. Back on the road towards Boise. City of Lake Fork 1015, City of Donnelly 1021 cloudy but sunny now. Gold Fork River 1024 Horse Thief Reservoir is up the way from here. Maybe next time. City of Cascade 1038 & Cascade Lake. Yes 4G or is it false 4G here? Sometimes I will get the 4G signal with all the bars- but still can’t connect. Sometimes I have to restart to connect. Other times it still doesn’t work. Sage Bluff area. Big Sage Campground open. Pelican Cove 1046. Blue Heron area open. Snowbank area open. Cabarton day use area on lake. 1000’s
of little ducks with white heads on the lake. Also pass by Kelly’s Whitewater Park- looks like a nice launching place for tubing or kayaking etc. This is the Payette River scenic byway - and it is nice. Very beautiful drive along the Payette River. Weatherman on the radio talking about his website weatherbell.com .
Now at Smith’s Ferry at noon. Brief break. Found a very sweet spot by the river near the junction of Porter Creek Road and highway 55- the river moves fast but there was an eddy here and some cliffs and some deep spots including fish I could see them almost got them to bite-and then I did some cliff jumping into the cool water. Had the spot all to myself. It’s near Horseshoe Bend - now 310pm./ Finally arriving in Boise around 4pm I find the cheapest gas as I arrive in Boise - at a Safeway- $4.19 per gallon. Total of $84.40. No E85 around here unfortunately. Then I make a blood donation at the BioLife in Nampa, bossy gal 6pm. Holiday Inn for the night.
Friday Sept 30 8am catholic church Nampa. Tire Nampa. Boise State Broncos vs SD State Aztecs $21 ticket- tonight 6pm. Meridian library vid. Boise library vid. Arrival BSU - free parking spot. 6pm it’s game time! Giant USA flag donated by Camping World.. 1st half unknowingly sat in student section- not ; 2nd half moved over to a less crowded section opposite side. New QB for Boise Taylen Green is a good runner- he started using his legs 2nd half and Boise went on to win 35-13. 2nd half: TD, punt, TD, TD, TD, TD. After the game back in my car I found a hotel for the night but as I was moving some stuff in the back of my vehicle suddenly something started beeping and wouldn’t stop- it had something to do with my rear passenger door– an automatic sliding door– that I have purposely stopped using because of a problem with the “actuator” but if you accidentally bump the “open door” button which I guess I’ve never done until this evening it causes a warning beeper to start– and never stop- I tried the door handle– all the buttons– went under the hood and one by one removed each fuse – this didn’t work my manual tells me there’s another fuse box near the glove
compartment. I haven’t found it yet. Meanwhile beep-beep-beep. Finally I find this other fuse box with a little help from YouTube and start pulling each fuse one-by-one– and putting each one back if it doesn’t stop the beep. I get thru most of them and it’s still beeping. Then finally SILENCE. Oh my, silence IS golden. I was almost about to give up and just let it beep all night and find a mechanic in the morning. Good lesson to never give up. Wow– that was 2 or 3 hours drama– because I drove around part of the time looking for a place to park for the night near an auto repair shop thinking the battery might be dead in the morning so keep it close to a repair place so I don’t need a jump or tow. And I needed WiFi or data connection to look things up on my phone. Silence is goldenNever felt so good. And I slept great.
Saturday, October 1 8am Cathedral mass in the basement chapel too crowded so I left early. 9am stopped at Les Schwab- got the same tire repaired– this time finally patched– not another plug. Thanks Les Schwab- they do a good job (usually). 12 noon: donated blood. After blood donation, I went to the library for a little while. Then 5pm St. Mark’s church (big) Sunday October 2 930 am Stonehill Church popular place- they meet in the high school auditorium. Then over to Life Church at 1115. After the service greeter named Mack said hello. 1pm Catholic Mass at Holy Apostles– they still require masks at this afternoon service. #PrayTheNews: sports; TCU upsets Oklahoma, Michigan defeats Iowa, UCLA defeats WA, #1 Georgia squeaks past Missouri 26-22, Alabama defeats Arkansas, NFL: Vikings defeat Saints in London. Seahawks squeak past Lions 48-45. Dodgers win again to tie a most wins record since1909. News: 129 killed in stampede after soccer match in Indonesia. Monday October 3 9am Albertson Park - lots of ducks. Albertson’s name is on a lot of places around Boise this is where their corporate headquarters is -0-and the original store was here. 10am toured the Boise Library. 10:15 am toured the Idaho state museum across the street from the library– pretty nice place–tech savvy too- lots of interactive exhibits. 11am then over to the old
jail historic penitentiary. Pretty cool place. 2pm- found a co-op FCU (America First) to withdraw cash- to transfer to my other account-. Delayed by technical issue- had to call my FCU in southern Cal. Issue resolved.
City of Kuna heading out of Boise- found a cave I saw on “things to do “ - the Kuna Cave– drive down a bumpy dirt road - adjacent to a farm- there’s a hole in the ground with a metal ladder- 2 cars there. One lady standing near the top. She said her son is down there. She wasn’t going down. She said she did it when she was a child many years ago. I said “Been there done that eh?” I guess no need to do it again. I waited for the adult child to come up the ladder- Then I went down- nice and cool down below- you can stand up and walk for a ways in one direction before it narrows- the other direction narrows pretty quickly. Lots of colorful graffiti on the walls. Might be fun to do some spelunking- fun for kids especially. But not me– I don’t feel like crawling on bumpy rocks. No stalagtites or stalagmites. No water. Stayed in Nampa for one more might. Best Western. No 4G. Tuesday October 4 uploaded vids at Lowes before heading out of town, 8am Lake Lowell, Dear Flat NWR, Clint Eastwood filmed some scenes from Bronco Bill here back in 1979. Historic dam looks like good fishing spot. Signs for Ammon Bundy for Gov. Lizard Butte cross 833. City of Marsing. Owyhee County. Sign for Givens Hot Springs. Sign for Leslie Gulch Recreation Area. Back in Oregon 920 am. Sign for Jordan Craters.
#PrayTheNews: RIP Loretta Lynn dies. Hurricane Ian fatalities surpasses 100 in FL. City of Jordan Valley 942 am. We live in a post-truth society. Also a Russian Submarine with Poseidon nuclear is missing? Supposedly it has the “armageddon weapon” Supposedly this submarine can be parked underwater and remote explode something so powerful it can cause a tsunami. Supposedly. There’s news about it. It seems far-fetched. But read for yourself if interested: https://www.businessinsider.com/russia doomsday weapon submarine nuke 2018 4 Also in the news there may be a serial killer in Stockton CA. Antelope
Reservoir. McDermit NV City 1151 am has library WiFi perfect stopping place as there is road construction stoppage for 30 minutes. I time it perfectly to start my car and get in the line just as they start going again. Some people always leave their cars running no matter how long the stoppage may be. Crazy. This is the border of Nevada & Oregon: There’s a casino named “Say When” across the street. This may also be the Paiute Shoshone nation /reservation– I make a point of praying for the Native Americans - by name as much as possible - as I travel thru their area. There’s a sign about PeopleOfRedMountain.com seems to be a concern about proposed lithium mining. Are you kidding me: Trucker with “wide load” passes me even though I’m doing 65mph–. What the heck was that all about? And then he can’t make it up the next hill so I have to pass him. What an idiot. Most truck drivers are great but if you travel enough you occasionally encounter the 1% who are NOT. 13opm Took the turn off for Paradise Valley– looking for a public hot springs a few miles off the beaten path. Found it!
It’s not really idyllic but the water is hot and clean enough actually maybe too hot. I sit in it for a while but in the middle of a warm day it’s not so comforting so I get out and soak in the cold water creek next to it that feels better. There’s an old geezer and his wife in their van not in the water just hanging out. Not very sociable which is fine with me. He looks like an old hippie. As I got out of the cold creek he approached to pick something up he left on the ground he was brushing his teeth as he walked in my direction- he looked like that actor named Sutherland the father, not Kiefer what’s his name? I attended one of their Hollywood star ceremonies many years ago– back when I was doing that for my Christian ministry (I founded Mustard Seed Ministries in the heart of Hollywood). I said to the guy “Do you know what the water temp is?” He responded “Hot. That’s all I know.” Back on the gravel road – stopped to fix something– had to try opening the driver’s side sliding door– I rarely do so– it’s one of those automatic doors with so many buttons and beepers I try to avoid it but at least this side
still works. Now arriving in Winnemucca- and God threw a curve ball suddenly my Shok phone is not working or seems not to be. Difficult to navigate thru cities without maps on phone. I randomly drove around until I found a gas station. Then the pump wasn’t accepting credit cards. I asked the old fella on the other side if his pump was working. He said yes, and then added “You have to pay first.” Duh. Really? Is there any gas station in America where you don’t have to pay first anymore? Actually a few years ago at the gas station near Grand Canyon’s north rim they allowed you to pump before paying. But such gas stations are few and far between. It may be the ONLY ONE - and it’s not because they are trustworthy but because they hadn’t gotten the technology upgrade. I go inside to pay. Came back out. Pumped the gas.
Sat there wondering what to do without a working phone. Thought about activating the other phone. Drove around until I found a McDonalds – meaning free WiFi. I connected using my other phone at least with phones that are not activated you can still use them for WiFi internet and also GPS (but no search). As I sat at the McDonalds a young fellow with Spiderman stickers on his car pulls in next to me he sees me sitting in my car then he goes into the McDonalds- a few seconds later he comes out and makes a dramatic point of checking the lock on the passenger side (near me) to make sure it’s locked. Thanks for the virtue signaling, you creep. The scary thing is these days If I ever get in a situation where I get robbed, mugged, or break down and have to walk on a rural road, etc.- I fear I won’t get any help from a good Samaritan. Everybody is so busy fearing for their own safety or virtue signaling that they are a “little red robin hood” that they won’t help others, only themselves. It’s sad. Tragic. Now I notice my regular phone is working again for some reason it blacked out for a while. Never did that before. Never since. Reflecting on my drive I’m surprised I could make it from Boise to Reno in one day– and it was NOT a marathon. Pershing County 421 pm preacher on radio: How you know the Holy Spirit is in you 1) assurance/conviction 2) awareness
of surroundings 3)
4) endurance, City of Lovelock 515 City of Toulon 528, back by Rye Patch Dam- I remember pulling in the old rustic area of this dam/lake a few years ago early in the morning- a few campers- a few kids doing some sunrise fishing. It was cool. But last time I passed by it seemed like it was getting very low on water (like too many places) around NV and CA. Now saying a pass by prayer and video evangelism for the prison near Coal Canyon - apparently this is Lovelock Correctional Center (medium security). Tim Garret is the warden. I continue to “Pray the Plates’ as I drive the freeway towards Reno. And I try something new as well: counting the types of vehicles I see going the other way (from Lovelock to Fernley) I would have thought cars & pickups would be the highest in number but as it turns out - the 18wheel trucks are overwhelmingly most frequent. Here’s my count: Big Rig Trucks about 175. Passenger Cars about 55. SUV’s only 17. Pickup trucks about 50. Only one motorcycle. Found a hotel in Fernley.
10/5/22 Wednesday. Stopped in at Walmart for a few items before hitting the road. I’ve cut way back on my shopping at Walmart after finding out they are doing more anti-Life activities after the Roe vs Wade repeal. That’s disappointing. Before leaving Fernley I attended the 930 catholic mass. Indian priest. Nevada people in general are pretty cool people. No airs about them. Not presumptuous. Kind of like the midwest of the west. Also did a car wash (sort of). 1044 signs for Derby Dam- so I turn off to see it but there’s not much to see. Why do they advertise it? They call it a “historical place” because it was built in 1903. But you can’t even get very close to it. Not worth the turn out to see. Now at Clark NV 11am- I pull off on Wild Horse canyon drive and believe it or not there’s actual wild horses roaming here. There’s also a famous, or infamous, ranch near here. I notice it only because it’s on google maps- and because I remembering reading about it in the news. Not my thing for sure but its part of having “total awareness” of one’s surroundings. #RepentAndBeBaptized This is also the Truckee River
going thru here. And a nice spot for fishing which I try for a whileno luck- but enjoyed wading in the cool river for a while as wild horses grazed nearby. Tried to get close to these horses– but they weren’t having it- moved away quickly. This is the McCarran Ranch Preserve- there’s a trail as well. Onward from Clark - thru downtown Reno. Found Idylwild Park- nice place by the river waded and sunbathed on a warm rock in the middle of the river for a while. Then I went closer to the downtown area- ate lunch-then walked to the downtown library- I’ve been to Reno a number of times even went to an Aces baseball game once- and been to some of the churches more than once- but never been to the library yetand it’s very cool - like a greenhouse inside– so many green plants growing.
I make a little video and then continue my walk back along the river and eventually back to my mission mobile. I remember arriving here a few years ago when it was an extreme heat day and so many people in the river, and floating the river etc. There’s numerous parks and swimming holes along the Truckee near Reno and going up thru the pass as well. Right here alone there’s Barbara Bennet Park, Bicentennial Park, Wingfield Park, and where I just was only a mile or so away is Idylwild Park. It’s nice but there are a few derelicts roaming around. Onward. City of Verdi 335pm. Now Placer County, Nevada County 434, Donner Lake & Pass 430 – did the train track tour here once- the old transcontinental railroad that went thru here and the incredible history of the work required to make it happen- lots of China men did the labor. “From 1863 and 1869, roughly 15,000 Chinese workers helped build the transcontinental railroad. They were paid less than American workers and …” some cool tunnels near here. Added a few gallons of gas for $6.99 per gallon- just to make sure I have enough to get to Sacramento. Also explored some new roads - saw sign for Royal Gorge Ski resort- apparently a cross-country skiing resort. Also a sign for “Camp Wamp”- apparently something for those with disabilities. Here’s Soda Springs Ski Resort. They sell themselves as
the “longest running ski resort in CA” - ad looks like it’s mostly kiddy hills for sledding, tubing, or learning to ski, etc. Now near the Serene Lakes. City of Troy. I make a stop along the river - to interact with God’s creation- as I call it. I think we need to do more of that not just “pass thru” an area and look at it thru the car window. There’s also the historic “Rainbow Lodge” around here (built in 1869). Also Loch Leven Lakes. Here’s Emigrant Gap (all trucks must stop for brake check. Long downhill coming up). And here’s Lake Putt. also Blue Canyon, Forebay, Baxter, Casa Loma, Dutch Flat, Gold Run, Cape Horn, Shady Glenn, Slept in Colfaxgot 4G connection. Griffith Quarry?
Thursday October 6, City of Loomis. Found a place for smog testit’s that time of year again- and I pass! Add another $50 bucks to my registration bill. BioLife left a message saying my protein level is too low to donate blood. Need to take a break for a while. Eat more protein. Come in for a re-test. Got gas in Sacramento: 9 gallons regular for $5.70 per- total $50. 8 gallons E85 at $4.19 per- total $32. Total $82 for 17 gallons. By mixing the two types I save about $17 dollars here- making the average per gallon about $4.82. A small relief. Big Fresno fair Oct 5 to 16. Clarksburg Bridge. Hate honker behind. #PrayTheNews: serial killer in Stockton. Also an entire family killed in Merced. Now taking my favorite back road way to Bay area- starting near Clarksburg along the Sacramento River passing the old sugar mill. Here’s Netherlands road. Here’s the Grand Island Mansion. High-speed A-hole just passed as a rare car was coming literally almost caused an accident if I hadn’t hit my brakes he wouldn’t have made it. And here’s Hogback Island at 130- take a break here- this is Steamboat Slough now- and I use the water to wash my car with a bucket- hope it’s not salt water. Then I cast my line a few times and even do a quick snorkel in the waterthere are fish down there. Not much else to see- a few logs etc. Not many boats around here. A few fishing boats. 2 jet skis. A seal popped up- surprising me. Now at the City of Isleton 3pm. Over the bridge near Antioch 430. Sherman Island, Pittsburg CA to SF over
Friday October 7 2022 Parade of Ships coming in around 11am for the “Fleet Week” here in San Francisco- and the Blue Angels as usual- but it’s foggy. We can see some of the boats- or parts of somedepending on the fog- that’s how thick it is– we’re almost right above them- and it will stay this way for the next 3 days - meaning 3 days that the Blue Angels could NOT fly- the fog was so thick they definitely couldn’t do their “high show” nor even their “low show.” The best we got around 3 pm - their schedule start time was the roar of a few planes way high. Lots of disappointed people who were lined up on the shore and various places and on the Golden Gate Bridge. I made the best of it by working on my storyboard cut and paste projects. Also explored the fort under the Golden Gate for the first time. That was kind of neat- there’s even an old lighthouse down here. Saturday October 8 found a new spot to wait for the Blue Angels that will never come. This is good R & R time- recovery from travel been on the road for so long- it does exhaust you after a while. Evening mass at St. Ignatius. Sunday October 9 another foggy day - parked near the Fort again for a while and then moved over to the national cemetery. Good view over the bay from here. And thanks to all the men and women for their service to our country (“Some Gave All”). I call this the “Invisible Air Show.” I make it to 5pm evening mass.
Monday October 10 Columbus Day 9am mass good priest.. It’s Columbus Day. Driving south towards Palo. Tax return CA. Here’s a planned parenthood– prayers for the unborn- there’s some people with signs from “40 Days for Life.” I stopped at the USPS forgetting that it’s Columbus day- it’s closed. And the electric scale is out of order. Situation normal. Here’s Sequoia High School. Moto cop gave me the eyeball. Mark Levin angry at Kanye West for some remarks he made about Jewish people & “def con”- apparently he apologized. Continue along El Camino Real. Tuesday October 11
slept good last night. Watched end of “Thai Cave Rescue” on Netflix - amazing how much work and effort went into saving those kids “(the wild boars”) and their coach. They all made it out alive, but one diver died. Now at a Stanford event about “whistleblowers & watchdogs”- disappointed that it seemed to lean left - in favor of the status quo favoring the vaccine and big pharma. Lots of “psycho babble” as they say- trying to defend big pharma it seemed. Skipped the free lunch. Walked back towards mall where I parked. Went past the Stanford hospital there’s always some new construction happening here. Picked up some cottage cheese & apple juice at Safeway. Also some Rustic Sour Dough bread- pretty good stuff. Sent CA state #TaxReturn Wednesday October 12, watched film at Stanford called “Secret ballot” about collecting votes in a rural area of Iran -. Kind of whimsical. Also attended a conference re Japan & FOIP. And also a presentation about a “utopia community” called Auroville. Attend noon mass at Aquinas church in Palo.
Thursday Oct 13 2022 Back at P.A. Library black guy talking to himself incessantly across from me I finally ask him to be quiet please and he says I am racist because I ask him to be quiet. He’s actually from Africa sounds like based on dialect. Noon mass again at Aquinas. Water refill at basketball park. Downtown library. African dude. Still trying to get TracFone unlocked. Finally got the code. Looking at Q - link also. Another event at Stanford tonight re same Iranian director this time it’s about the Ukraine passenger plane that was shot down by Iran- called “PS752 is NOT a NUMBER” - and the subject of the film is also in person on stage. He is a dentist but also an author- and lives in Canada an ex patriate of Iran- some of his books banned in Iran. He lost his wife & daughter on the flight. It’s a documentary about the aftermath and their search for truth. And it’s a packed house in the CEMEX auditorium. Mostly Iranian-Americans - during the Q & A many asked questions in Arabic.
10/14/22 now at the College Terrace Library neurotic lady obsessively cleaning table before sitting down. I had a water spill in the Bible mobile today. Trying to dry it out now. Last night I saw the film entitled “PS752 is not a number” about the Ukraine flight shot down by Iran. A doc film by a man who lost his wife & daughter in the crash. Most notable about it all is HOW PACKED the crowd is here– at the CEMEX Stanford- mostly people of Iran descent (Iranian-Americans) - they gave the guy a standing ovation several times he’s a dentist but also an author so apparently he was known by the Iran community prior to this plane crash in fact apparently some of his books are banned in Iran. Not sure why. Didn’t get all the history. They kept moving the location of the film–I guess Stanford didn’t realize how busy it would get either until the last moment. Strangely, after the film I got up to stand on the side my legs sore from sitting- and the fellow next to me followed and said “Excuse me, you left your phone.” I said “my phone!?” In fact I was holding one phone, and my other phone was in my shirt pocket. Was he mistaken or what? Anyways, he left. And I still had both my phones.
I stop in at the College Terrace library. Noon film at Oshmann - not very interesting. Hiked the dish late in the day - watching some films on my phone as I walk. Then I go to the Alex Goldberg recital at the Knoll. Some ladies were lost and asked me how to get there. I escorted them in. Saturday Oct 15th Now at the Stanford tennis center - big tournament (“northwest regionals” ITA) for the best women players from Stanford, UW, Portland State, Sacramento State, and several other universities. And they are fun to watch- top notch– good tennis, doubles and singles. Made it to evening mass at Nativity left early but noticed a monastery across the street which I had never noticed before. And they have a daily mass. Sports: Tennessee upsets Alabama. Michigan defeats Penn State. Sunday the 16th 730am at Aquinas church. 9am at Stanford Catholic–they’re back inside. 11 am back at the tennis courts. NFL: Vikings defeat Dolphins can you believe Minnesota is 5-1? Are they legit? I
keep an eye on them because of Kirk Cousins (Holland Christian).
Patriots defeat Browns 38-15. Monday the 17th - more tennis- now they are in the semi-finals doubles & singles. Chargers defeat Broncos. Yankees game postponed.
Tuesday the 18th Yankees win. Now at Rinconada library. Receive text re MVG death. Stunned. Unexpected. That’s my Aunt Martha. I had a special bond with her from living at their Jackson Hole home for a few summers. Wednesday the 19th Leaving Palo. Patchen Pass Highway 17, Silicon to Santa Cruz. 10:15 $5.35 gas at Safeway Aptos (yelled at A-hole who was being crude & rude), x 10 gallons $53 total, also added 2 in Palo, and prayers for migrant workers as I pass them by in the farm fields of Monterey. So many migrant workers around here. Commencing prayers for the repose of Martha VG. That’s a Catholic thing more than a protestant thing but I feel comfortable with it as well. I’m pro-cath-ordox. City of Moss Landing 1030, City of Castroville (artichoke capitol) 1048, 11am added 9 more gallons of gas (E85) in Salinas AT $3.79 per gallon total $34 - by combining the two types of gas I save from $20 to $40 per fill up. If I had just pulled up to a pump and put in 21 gallons at the average station around here at close to $6 per gallon it would have cost me $126. This way cost me about $88. Makes a difference after a while. Passed by Laguna Sega race track. Now at Monastery Beach (aka Mortuary Beach) - ready to do some snorkeling at this world famous spot. Nobody else in the water. Big swells. I walk to the far south end. Didn’t expect anybody to be there but there were two Asians sitting in a hidden corner. Strange how this far end seems to beckon people. Happened last time here too. So I take time to acclimate to the cold water. Finally submerge.
Unfortunately, the visibility is not too good. Last time much better. I swim around for a while- try to make some underwater videos but not too successful. After about an hour I get out– make a quick run up the sand- with a new swell coming in. I could see how this might be dangerous especially for scuba divers with tanks & equipment
etc. It’s still warm for late October in Monterey. Enjoy the sun. As I lay there drying off in the sun, three male Latinos come walking towards me. They pass by and wave and go into the same corner as those Asians were. Three Latinos having a picnic. One of them comes over and offers me a slice of cantaloupe. I say thanks but no “muchas gracias.” Wow. At least their nicer here than in So Cal. After Monastery beach I stop in at Safeway for some hamburger, then head towards Pacific Grove for another snorkel session – at Lovers Cove (or Lovers Point to be exact. I think they should call it Lovers Cove to rhyme with Pacific Grove). There’s a wild fire in the distance smoke fairly obvious. Not sure the name of it. Still praying for MVG. Will be for a while. Repose. Can’t get 4G around here. Go to Fed Ex Office for a WiFi connection. It’s 20 degrees cooler than yesterday.
Thursday the 20th Driving to Catholic mass at St. Angela Merici I see 3 deer in the road (mama & 2 fawns). Priest preached about the important thing being love. Foggy morning. Stop in at Lucky grocery a few items for the drive thru Big Sur. Lucky has better prices than Safeway. Also stop in at Goodyear and get my air checked- give the guy a $1 tip. Starting coastal drive south. Garrapata 10:15 , Marine Pollution Studies Lab 10:19, Lots of road work- temporary traffic signals. Granite Canyon Bridge 1020. Another red light 1022. Garrapata Creek Bridge 1022, I need a bumper sticker that says “I’d Rather be Praying. Oh wait. I am Praying.” Here’s Rocky Pt Restaurant. Now Palo Colorado mostly private. 1025. Prayers for private residents in their elite areas. Rocky Creek Bridge 1027. Bixby Bridge 1028. Long open green space. 1080 am Rob Carson radio show- good - coming from Santa Cruz. Point Sur Lighthouse- did the tour here once. Andrew Molera State Park 1042. The Coffee Bus 1047. Fernwood 1049. Pfeiffer State Park 1050. Big Sur Bakery 1053. Another traffic signal 1054. Nepenthe restaurant 1056- I always stop here for a break & usually do some evangelism too. Little further south is the Henry Miller
Library. I used to stop in there & browse but most of the time I don’t go in anymore.
I’m making a video dedicated to MVG as I drive (with Michael W. Smith music in the background, “Above All “ I call it the MVG song) ( 1138. ) Now at Partington tunnel trail and across from it is the Tan Bark Trail. First I go down to the tunnel (with my snorkel gear) and enjoy a snorkel session – some beautiful anemones here–the lime green ones and one that I had never seen before- bright orange. Also some large starfish. Not many fish- but a few. Water nice and clear and not too cold. Back at the top I take the Tan Bark trail– it goes along a creek for a ways– with several cascades and small waterfalls- until you get to a junction that ends with a medium small waterfall and the trail continues upward thru a redwood grove to what they call the “Tin House”-. I actually turn around here– I don’t have time to do a longer hike. This is a nice creek for cooling off in on a hot day. Will remember it.
Next stop: the popular McWay waterfall view point. There’s also Canyon Falls in back of it along a trail but the trail is closed due to damage from a wildfire some time ago. And there’s the Pelton Wheel- but you can’t see that either - not sure why. Onward: Big Sur Park school 308. Esalen Institute 310. Big Creek 320. Pray for tourists. City of Lucia 329, monastery road 331 (drove up there once- kind of cool- you can join them in mass if you come at the right time). Limekiln is closed 333 (done that once). Big Sur Taco truck , Pacific Valley Fire 344, Sand Dollar Picnic area & Plaskett Creek , inland route turnoff near Kirk Creek 336pm (did that a few times), Willow Creek picnic area (popular surfing spot, 9 miles north of Ragged Point), Gorda 421, Arleen’s Slide 423, reckless ranger passing coming towards me 424- no lights on- he pulled back. Cruckshank trail 427, Soda Springs Trail (did that once) 432, Salmon Falls (been here many times, 435), Now at Ragged Point 444pm no WiFi. San Carpiforo Creek San Simeon, Coyote running (got video, 450pm), Here’s the lighthouse I toured once- many years
ago. Elephant seal viewpoint always popular- and they seem to always be there now- several jousting. Slept at Cambria Hotel. Friday the 21st of October. 9am Catholic @ Cambria, scarecrows everywhere around the small town for scarecrow festival and each one is unique. Surf is up- numerous surfers at the Cambria main beach 957. Saw some dolphins too. Impatient local Cambrian behind me. On the radio something about be a “prisoner of the heart” for the Lord. Holy Spirit in us. Love One Another. Harmony Headlands SP 1010. Cayucos 1013. Around this part of CA there is a noticeable change in demeanor of people- and especially their driving style- from here southward you encounter more of the “selfrighteous drivers.” I think they get their daily dose of selfrighteousness by driving aggressively and demeaning others. It makes driving always like being on pins & needles. You never know when such a driver will suddenly emerge and find something to nitpick about you. Either too slow or too fast or this or that. Sometimes pickup trucks will drive will blinding bright headlights, or they will tailgate. Also dangerous passing. And no matter what in their minds, it’s always the other person’s fault. I think some of them just go out for a meaningless random drive to try to get a dose of self-righteousness. They will find some “idiot” on the road to feel better about themselves. Anyways, enough of that.
Here’s Morro Bay 1045 - I used to come here going north and often would stay the night and in the morning walk the beach and find numerous sand dollars- you could gather as many as you wish to your heart’s content. Wonder if they are still here. Also memories of going to Montano de Oro a few times also a cool places. Here’s Cuesta College. And here’s the CA men’s colony (prison) 1054 near SLO. I’m always looking to see if I got a 4G on my phone it has not been very reliable on this summer trip- actually worse than when I had an older phone and connected to 3G. How sad is that? Cell service is getting worse, not better. So now my motto is “I got Jesus, but NO G’s.” Song : “Mack is back in town.” Here’s the pink
Madonna Inn, also a historic place right next to the 101 freeway. Take the turnoff to Avila Beach. Been dropping in here for many years now. There’s beaches and piers, and a historic lighthouse you can take a tour of, which I did once. I sit and eat lunch. Onward thru Shell Beach, Pismo, and here’s Monarch Butterfly Grove 1250 - also stop here usually to see the butterflies and there’s several that I can see immediately- and a sign showing the count of the Monarchs over the past decades. In 1990 they counted 230,000, By 1995 it went down to 150k , in 2000 even many less at 40k, in 2010 24k. In 2015 it went back up to 28k, but then in 2017 it dipped again as low as 12k, and even less in 2019 at 6000, And in 2020 they counted less than 200– seems unbelievable. I wonder what the reason for that might have been? But by 2021 they were back up to 22k. Nonetheless, it’s a drastic change from 30 years ago. As I’m leaving the grove I find a wetsuit on the side of the road all dusty looks like it fell off somebody’s car. It turns out to be a lady’s wetsuit size 10 (later I examine it more closely and notice a large rip in it near the armpit. Looks like somebody discarded it). City of Grover Beach, City of Guadalupe 120, Pt Sal trailhead 130 - want to do it sometime but not today.
Here’s Rancho Maria golf course unique entrance a golfer carved out of a tree. 149pm, City of Orcutt - an old oil town. And here’s Vandenberg Air Force Base– now called Space Force Base. I do a drive-by prayer for our service men & women. And I know there’s a prison coming up too so I get prepared to do a drive-by video prayer & evangelism for the prisoners as well. It’s the Lompoc prisonlooks serious but apparently it’s “low security.” I took an interim class at Calvin College about prisons & we took a class trip to the prison in Jackson Michigan. And we are called by God to remember the prisoners, see Hebrews 13.3. So this is the best thing I could come up with to do for them- video evangelism and I’ve done it all over the USA– and am pleased that they get frequent views on YouTube. Maybe its helping- we hope. Enter Lompoc- 2pm NO 4G, so I find a Home Depot for WiFi- take a 2 hour break. Tired of
driving. Onward. Now Gaviota 504 pm. There’s some “wind caves” here that I hiked too once. And some rest areas which seem to always be closed. Here’s El Capitan State Beach. All along this stretch of the 101 you can park alongside the road and walk down unmarked trails to unnamed beaches some are kind of coolusually not too busy - you can have some solitude and swim even body surf sometimes. Been there done that, but not today. Now city of Goleta 521.
Arriving in Santa Barbara- I park by the old catholic church- where I’ve slept numerous times and attended mass in the morning but this time I just take a nap and around midnight wake up and start driving again. I want to get gas at Oxnard at a specific gas station that has much lower prices than most others. However, in the day there are long lines, so I figure I can pull in around 1am without lines. And then I pass an In-& -Out Burger at 1230 and see long lines of cars. Hopefully, they’re more interested in burgers than gas at this time of day but you never know when or where you might encounter a line or traffic jam in southern Cal. Fortunately it’s not busy at 1am: I get regular for $4.79 per gallon and combine it with E85 for $3.37 per gallon. Brings me to an average of $4.17 per gallon - total $75 dollars. Save $11 to $25 dollars.
Saturday Oct 22 slept in Camarillo, decision to go to Pomona via 118, City of Somis 830, City of Moorpark 837, lots of farms & migrants, sign for el rancho Simi adobe. Here’s the Church of Rocky Peak looks like a mega church. Big cross by the freewaynear where we went rock climbing with our Koinonia group from Bethany CRC in Bellflower. And there’s the Shepherd church went there once Pastor Dudley Rutherford. Something on the radio about Kevin Short, surf artist. City of Simi Valley. Here’s Hansen Dam 909 am. #PrayTheNews: college football: Ohio State vs Iowa1st play Iowa got intercepted by the Buckeyes. Syracuse vs Clemson is a big top 10 matchup today not your usual suspects. Michigan
has a bye this week. Yankees are playing Astros in MLB playoffs. UCLA (suprisingly 6-0) at Oregon. I saw the Ducks vs Washington State a few weeks ago– great game final score 44-41. Passing by Fuller Seminary saying a video prayer. Sunday Oct 23 after stopping in at the office, I went to RB takes a while to get back to feeling “normal” after being gone for 3 months or so. 12 nooncheck in at St. James, 1pm swim at RB. MLB announcer Dan Shullman says “swing and a miss” way too much. Can’t he think of anything else like “that’s a strike?”
Monday Oct 24 Sent MVG card #1, also Big Sur video RIP, and an RIP blog dedicated to Martha, JimLin leave Thursday for funeral in Jackson Hole. 10 am at Malaga Library. Same fella shows up a little while later. Another fellow blocked me as I entered for a few seconds, pretending not to notice I was there- even though he saw me walk in. That was weird. The other guy was also bewildered at this dude’s strange behavior. I’m looking thru my photo gallery for pics of Martha to make another memorial card of letter. And I come across some pics of our 1967 Evinrude Sport - it was a slick boat back in the day they even used an outboard model in a James Bond movie (“Operation Tonnere” or “Thunderball” starring James Connery). Some pics online if you google it. We even transported that old boat in a moving truck from Grand Rapids to Los Angeles in 1984. Used it for a while and then Jim apparently donated it to a Christian organization. Keep searching: here’s a pic of Martha by the tetherball pole at the cottage with me & some of the cousins. We used to stay at Grandpa’s cottage in Holland every summer for 2 weeks back when there was a huge sandy beach in front. Now in 2022 the beach is almost totally gone. Maybe it will come back. Who knows. From Malaga I go to Peninsula Library start updating blogs an bi-annual tradition. Walking thru the library I see some of the omnipresent regulars who don’t miss a day at the library: There’s the crude dude. And there’s the Jewish gal. I don’t see the robot yet.
Tuesday October 25 I still have a $27 balance on MyPostcard.com so I use it to send a photo mosaic postcard to the VG’s in Jackson, and also a copy to the Peters Sisters in Olympia. Scheduled credit card payment. Now a movie review for Christians on Tuesday discount day: #PrayTheMovies: film called “Black Adam” - starring Dwayne Johnson it’s actually Shazam- but apparently the name Shazam doesn’t sell too well - so they disguised it a little bit? Or did I miss something? Googling it doesn’t help me too much. Anyways, his power or lack of is associated with saying the word “Shazam.” Somewhat entertaining. My main takeaway is that the popularity of all these super hero movies in the last decade are evidence of people’s need for a Savior. And the films give them that feeling at least for a little while. However, there is ONLY one real Savior: Jesus Christ- and contrary to most movie heroes who defeat the enemy by staying alive and killing the opponents. Jesus did the opposite- He gave us salvation by dying. Although in this movie there’s an inscription on the crown which the lead female character misreads at first thinking it says “Life is the Only Path to Death”, but near the end she realizes it actually says “Death is the Only Path to Life.” Aha! For Christians this is more Biblical. For example “Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.” Rom 6.8 and “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1.21 and “The saying is trustworthy, for: If we have died with him, we will also live with him;” 2 Tim 2.11. So you can pluck some Biblical things out of these secular films. Anyways, the actual name of the Dwayne Johnson character is Teth Adam. It begins with finding “Eternium” a blue jewel with some sort of supernatural-giving power. Zehut, shazam, miracle? Khandax 2600 BCE, re demonic powers, champion gone but will return, “hey boss” in this movie too. “Intergang” checkpoint. “Radicals” or rebelskind of like a star wars movie. “The crown” she found the crown but the bad guys take it. She says “Shazam.” Hooded figure appears. Bullets don’t hurt Seth Adam, He levitates (rock johnson). He’s invincible? Even missiles can’t hurt him. He’s the champion-
been asleep for 5000 years or so they think. Henry Winkler? The fonz? I saw him at the Bellflower Bravo awards a few years ago. And is that the lead actress from Woman King? And Pierce Brosnan too. Now at an estate in Louisiana. “Justice Society.” Mighty man. She thinks it says “Life is the Only Path to Death” but does it? Apparently the only way to stop Teth Adam (aka Black Adam) is to get him to say “Shazam” - to voluntarily relinquish his power. This is like a light switch for him– he can turn his powers on and off by saying Shazam.
#PrayTheMovies: We need a Savior! And we have one: Jesus Christ. Superhero movies are a shadow of the real savior. Like a parable. And here’s the “Smasher” -he can enlarge himself to the size of a skyscraper. Finally, Adam relinquishes his power– missed the reasoning – why. Now the real translation on the crown emerges: “Death is the Only Path to Life” aha! That’s almost Biblical. But then a satanic figure arises in the movie. Satan vs Shazam in the final battle. They don’t call him satan in the movie -but he looks satanic. Its good vs evil. God vs. Satan, so to speak. But in real life it is the believers plus God against Satan. God is not doing it alone against Satan. He allows us to battle with him. Of course God could eliminate satan altogether in one blink but he allows the cosmic battle to play on and He (God) won’t allow us to be tempted beyond our will nor will we be defeated in the end if we trust in Him and remain unified with Him- but we may lose some battles at times. Nonetheless, we rise up again and become stronger. As they say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” Sometimes. And there’s a post-credit scene.
Wednesday the 26th of October, 2022: Finished MVG funeral paper & started new blog RememberingAuntMartha.blogspot.com , stopped in at Staples to print it but the printer malfunctioned. Go to Fed Ex Office 70 cents per color page . Take a swim at Redondo- catch 20
waves body surfing- a little stretch and exercise. Feel refreshed. Saw 2 dolphins doing some flips right by each other like something you would see at a Sea World show. Right near me.
Thursday the 27th. Dropped off the MVG material at Jim Lin’s. Went to new blood donation. They put me thru the new donor process but won’t give me the new donor bonus. 1pm NBPL 7pm author event. Sports: Bucs lose to Ravens. Tom Brady’s divorce finalized. 10/28/22 at OCPL University Library finished the LA MAIL-in ballot using Jennifer Horn’s guide from 870am. It helps. Otherwise you have to do a lot of research for each choice. Friday the 28th 830 OLQA, Why so many cars here? Not that many in church. There’s the chef in white. He’s been coming here for a while - not sure what is his story- spends a lot of time in the restroom. New priests now? New zeitgeist? I hope so. 930 take a walk around University Park library. 10 to 1 on computer. Finished my mail-in voting research. Dropped in mailbox by UCI.
Saturday the 29th Now at NBPL - more blog work- now it’s 130pm post- watching the Martha Funeral. Starts with slideshow. There’s Warren doing the introduction. Sounds like he has a cold. Barb Peters couldn’t make it. There’s Jim & Linda, also Ani Blickley & Adam, all the VG kids: Todd, Craig, Eric, Courtney. Pastor Ben Pascal says a few introductory words (he went to Fuller). Warren now introducing his brother Scott who’s a professor at the University of Colorado Boulder (architect?). Some of the Larry VG family. Ani Peters reading Bible verse re 1 Cor 15 “Oh Death where is your sting” & Luke 10 re “Martha Martha...” More words from Pastor Ben: 1st met Martha 20 years ago. She had quiet strength, humble repose, rooted in Christ. She led groups here. She attended Tuesday Bible study for years. And served the less fortunate. She was a peacemaker. She had no fear of dying. He pronounced Van Genderen wrong. There’s Caitlyn! And Di. Caitlyn played the bass with Linda on piano & Sandra on violin. Caitlyn is a professor at a music school in the country of Trinidad.
Linda is reading her memories, occasionally tearing up: I was the 2
daughter. We had a happy childhood, Martha our leader. Mother died, dad remarried 2 more sisters, and brother, Martha was big sister to all of us, sent for a purpose , used all her talents, brilliant, creative, hospitable, loving, giving, more about her childhood born 1937, before America WW2, in her 1st 8 years America was centered on the war , always a wonderful sister, and helping mom like first borns, caring, she was fun stood out to me she was fun, could turn any incident into an adventure, one summer lake Michigan grandma’s house dad hunting for house in Evanston. -huge stump washed up- nice and smooth—a toy for us—our ship for the summer, adventures every day led by Captain Martha. Ww2 ended 1945 life changed radically- during war no car no bikes not much butter or sugar, we knew nothing else. After war parents able to get a bike for Martha – too big for her—she had to ride standing upMartha taught me to play with paper dolls, ice skated, dad bought canoe for lake Michigan, Martha wrote plays for us to perform, she had many friends, they came from variety of faith backgrounds, Martha so enjoyed that, she was a strong Christian but loved and accepted all.. We will miss her a lot.
Now Di reading” I will pick up where Warren entered my life. Warren added another dimension. We followed him like the pied piper. Our new big brother. Martha made delicious dinners. Martha a math teacher. Took train from Michigan to Boston. Di lived in Denver with the VG’s for a summer. Martha was a cheerleader, took hikes, adventure. Martha never preached her faith. “My daughter Caitlyn was the first to stay here.” Martha’s bright & beautiful spirit. Song: “I know my redeemer lives” + Now San reading Barb’s letter: I didn’t recognize San at first. Martha wouldn’t want all the fuss but it’s wonderful. She was bright, capable, quintessential oldest child. 1st summer without mother she was our mom. We tagged along as she tried on wedding dresses. I was in awe of Martha. Hillary stayed there too.
Now San gives her own thoughts. Martha would take care of our kids occasionally so Mark & I could get away. She was a docent at the wildlife art museum. In 1999 they took a bike/barge trip to the Netherlands. She mentions the Malindibar adding San in front of it. Martha was grateful when I organized a trip for once. Now a piano solo 235 pm. Now Courtney is reading her memories: one time we saw a snake and everybody screamed and Martha said “Don’t yell, you will scare it” and she picked it up it was a garter snake. Courtney emphasizes Christ. Now Craig: epic road trips from CA to MI. before DVD’s and streaming. Jabberwocky on tape. Brain teasers etc. Martha was on another level. I’ve been hearing Martha stories all week. As Hunter Thompson says “There she goes.” I feel like we should be lighting off fireworks. Martha needs no identification at St. Peters gate-. She was a force for good, a light. Like a good Calvinist. Humble rockstar. She’s in good stead. Thank you for coming. Now Eric sings a song. Now Pastor Ben leads the Lord’s Prayer. Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress. Jim closes with a few words and adds “Father Son & Holy Spirit.” End funeral ceremony at 3pm.
Sunday the 30th: 830 am Mariners church, 930 University Library, blog updates, over to UCI for an event in the evening (disappointing). Monday October 31 Halloween day (also All Saints, All Souls, & Reformation Day are around this date). 830 am St. Jbap church costa mesa. New priest? From Jbap over to blood donation at 1030. Then gas in Anaheim 9 gallons E85 at $3.20 for $29.16, 10 gallons regular at $4.79 for $47.90. 19 gallons total for $77, average of $4.05, saving about $29 by mixing the two fuels. After gas I stock up at Walmart even though I normally try to avoid Walmart- I will go there for cheaper cans of vegetables (they still sell them for.50 cents per can while almost everywhere else its $1 to $1.25). And now they are saying diesel may be running low – could be a problem for truckers. Along with the Mississippi River barges having trouble moving due to low water levels. You never know
when the next shortage may happen. From there I pass by Artesia Library door was open so I assumed the library was open- but only the outer area was open for voting. There was a guy monitoring the doorway he said I shouldn’t carry my cellphone in my shirt pocket it could cause heart problems. Really? That’s a new one. I said to him “Make sure you keep an eye on the drop box. Don’t let people stuff the ballots.” He acted like he didn’t know what I was talking about. Was he playing dumb or is he just “low informed?”
Tuesday November 1: I meet with Jim Lin at McDonalds. They tell me that Jim’s sister Faith is not doing well. Prayers for Faith DeKam. Then we converse about the Martha funeral. Martha apparently did not want a cell phone but they finally convinced her to have one just for emergency. Warren bought her a snow blower but apparently she didn’t use it. She liked to shovel. They stayed at the house across from VG’s for the funeral. The sisters met in Portland for a reunion in April. So that was the last time Linda saw Martha. Eric lives in the basement of the house with his new Russian wife and his son from his 1st marriage, EJ. They want to move to Florida. His new wife is a musician (piano). Warren also has a place in Scottsdale now. Martha didn’t want to go there. Warren still dealing real estate. I mentioned my summer trip a little bit they weren’t very interested - unfortunately I don’t think they appreciate the significance of these summer mission trips- and the evangelism I do, as well as pre-evangelism. Linda ends our meeting by saying she’s “Strong.”
After the meeting I go to PV- computer- then to #PrayTheMovies: a Bollywood film called “Ram Setu” - some of these films from India are now better than many American films- at least none of the lefty political agenda-. I don’t mind reading subtitles. Starts with bombing of Buddha in Afghan. Then UNESCO starts restoration to rebuild Buddha. They find a box of jewels/coins. Immediately attacked. Fall into pit. Reclining Buddha. The archeologist is an atheist that was emphasized- in contrast to his wife who had
“faith” albeit faith in what? Hinduism? There’s a bunch of history not sure if factual or just made for the movie re Shree Ram etc. - the gist of the story is trying to prove who or what created Ram Setu. Something also about Ramayana. Now I am googling it and it’s also known as “Adam’s Bridge- and apparently has some factual history. The bad guy in the movie wants to destroy Adam’s Bridge for money-making purposes- known as the Sethusamudram shipping canal project - an area between Sri Lanka & India - But if the good guy atheist can prove something about it and that it has significant cultural value then they can stop the bad guy from destroying it. But the bad guy wants to kill the atheist so he can’t prove his point. SO it’s an action/adventure film, pretty well done keeps it exciting. Essentially it’s religious groups vs developers, and in the movie the religious groups win this time. It’s kind of like an Indiana Jones movie, but I guess you could call it “India Jones” instead. Not a bad movie although the fighting scenes could be improved. Very unrealistic.
This guy named Dane Wigington at GeoEngineeringWatch.org has a very pessimistic podcast about the future of our world and climate that I’ve been listening to lately (this is not an endorsement just an observation). Here are some of my Geoengineering notes Re: “geo atmospheric rivers in central Cal Deadpool levels (lake Mead, lake Shasta, lake Oroville ,flow of Colorado river, ) ; VPD vapor pressure deficit, wet bulb point (heat/humidity level beyond which humans can survive), stratosphere aerosol injection (SAI)aka chem trails ; life insurance reports 40% increase in "all cause deaths" &470% increase pulmonary embolism , coronal mass injection, Carrington event, blue ocean event, greenhouse runaway scenario Venus syndrome , Easter island scenario , Drought deluge scenario, planet of the humans, re 911 3rd bldg crash see Richard Gage 911.org , pfas chemicals ("forever chemicals"), Atlantic plankton wiped out, world's largest renewable magazine 2004, ionospheric heaters, Britain red heat warning, white train tracks, biosphere implosion, heat dome, new problem of solar panels disposal, "Iron fertilization is the intentional
introduction of iron to iron-poor areas of the ocean surface to stimulate phytoplankton production. This is intended to enhance biological productivity and/or accelerate carbon dioxide (CO 2) sequestration from the atmosphere", Canfield ocean, cloud's tipping point , anthropogenic aerosols, desalination plants contamination ; Raytheon & Lockheed Martin (RLM) giving weather forecasts to weather channel. Why? Because RLM are involved in geoengineering. Ice nucleation, Lake Michigan ice balls, does Dr Kelly victory have a blog podcast? "Wildfires serve geoengineering agenda", biomass plants, planet of the humans documentary, chemical ice nucleation , methane more harmful than co2, operation mockingbird re CIA manipulation of media, Dr Ken caldera? Climate engineer, coronal mass injection? CMI, project starfish, John Brennan supports aerosol injection, IPC intergovernmental re climate change, open fields provision govt can enter your land home, extinction debt .”
Lots of science jargon & mambo jumbo. But he’s not a lefty. Unfortunately, nor does he seem to be a religious believer of any kind. Unfortunately, he never mentions hope in a Higher Power. He only pontificates on how bad things are and how worse it is getting. He believes strongly that the government(s) of the world are engineering the climate via various means including “chem trails”. Ironically, it makes me believe in God even more. If we are coming to the end because of climate disaster, I am ready to go because I know Jesus Christ as my Savior ! I hope you do too !
THE END (for now) Soon there will be an AmeriPrayer VI
