Tag Archives: writing

A Couple of Things…

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1. As the seasons change from summer to fall, I continue to kayak until conditions change to when it’s so windy when one paddles, you barely move. But for now, the perfect conditions prevail.

photo of Channel Islands Harbor kayaking

2. I saw a great t-shirt that read: “I’m not completely useless. I can be used as a bad example.” #TrueDat

Steinholding competition
Man on left won the competition

3. It’s that time again when beer-filled steins are aplenty, bratwurst and sauerkraut sandwiches are all the rage and people arrive wearing goofy German clothing, of course I’m speaking of Oktoberfest. I attended the 2nd annual Oktoberfest at the Ventura Fairgrounds this week and I was a little annoyed that you have to pay to get in, you stand in line for an “over 21” wristband, you stand in line for a beer ($15-$30 each), you stand in line to order food and then wait in line to pick it up and while all the time you’re being overwhelmed by German polka bands.
I did indeed enjoy the sandwich along with a warm soft pretzel straight out of the oven along with my beer (sorry…did not opt for German). I also enjoyed the Steinholding competition. I had never witnessed (nor heard of) one before. People lined up with a beer stein in front of them filled with water (no need to waste good beer), and then they pick it up and the last one to hold it with out spilling a drop wins. Turns out, there’s a US Steinholding Association which delineates rules for the competition. I won’t list all (you can read them here), but these are my favorites.

  • The arm holding the stein must remain parallel with the ground and, from a side view, should remain close to perpendicular with the line of the torso from the neck to the bottom of the rib cage.
  • If any amount of the liquid filling the stein spills or drips off of the stein, the competitor is immediately disqualified, regardless of the number of strikes otherwise assigned.
Photo of friends David and Marnie with me

I did mention people dressed up in their best “traditional” German garb, well I came across two of my father’s friends (and mine), David and Marni who were all about the festivities. It was good to catch up with them!

Late for the Sky advertisement
Aaron Orbit and Travis Greer

4. Congratulations to local filmmaker, Travis Greer, on his short film, “Late for the Sky.” I caught a screening of it last weekend here in town at the Cinefest held during ArtWalk Ventura. Both Greer, and local musician/artist, Aaron Orbit starred in it and it was really well done. I was enthralled by the cinematography. The close ups were amazing and truly mesmerizing. A job well done and the film was the winner for Best Comedy.

5. Checked out an early morning screening of “Digger” this past weekend. We’re talking 10:10 am which one would think is too early for popcorn, but not this popcorn lover! “Popcorn for breakfast, it’s your choice!” should be the campaign of the next Orville Reddenbaker ad run.

As for the movie, if you see it, I hope it sticks with you and makes you think. You need to pay attention and follow the plotline. #Deep

Digger movie poster

6. Things that live in my head rent free:

  • Tom Cruise’s latest movie, Digger
  • (To be continued…)

7. Why is prostitution illegal and not porn? Of course prostitution is legal in areas of the state of Nevada; and as I delved into the subject, I found that porn is argued that it’s a first amendment issue with actors regarding “artistic expression.”
But if a woman is 100% willing and not under duress, why is it illegal? It’s her body.
I thought of this workaround: Start a FansOnly page, and prostitute one’s self, but position it as being hired for an art project so she would film it in order to post it so it would pass the First Amendment rights provision. The “John” would either give consent to be filmed or be blindfolded, which could be fun.

While researching this, Wikipedia provided this tidbit: “Prostitution is illegal in every US state except Nevada, where licensed brothels are permitted in some counties, and Maine, where selling sex is decriminalized but buying sex is illegal.”

artwork of Famous last Words episode

8. If you get a chance, watch the episode of Famous Last Words on Netflix featuring Gloria Steinem. There are now three episodes, I’ve seen Steinem’s and Jane Goodall’s, and will get around to watching the one with Eric Dane who passed away from ALS. At the time of the recordings, the person being interviewed is promised that no one will see it until they have passed away. But you can’t help but think what other episodes are in the can just waiting for that someone to die. #KindaGrim

9. From my favorite quotes file: “Why is it immoral to be paid for an act that is perfectly legal if done for free?” – Gloria Allred

A Couple of Things…

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1. There’s nothing quite like catching up with a dear friend from high school. I love rehashing memories yet again and being reminded friendships that last decades are the best! It’s always so lovely to see Joyce and to know she’s doing well…in freakin’ hot Arizona.

2. I saw a cute meme listing several signs you’ve gotten very used to living without a man. This one rings so true for when you think you hear something late at night. This is my personal checklist:

1. Freeze
2. Listen
3. Check camera
4. Turn on the lights
5. Consider calling somebody
Absolutely do not investigate like the woman in a horror movie.

Photo of new species of cat

3a. There were a couple of “Firsts” when it comes to animals this past week. For starters, a new wild cat species was discovered for the first time in over 100 years. It was spotted in Boliva and the powers that be named it “Tigrino.” I’m not saying I would say no to this one as a pet, as they are super cute and I would name mine, Suzie Q.

photo of sea turtle eggs
Image courtesy of NOAA Fisheries

3b. The second first was more close to home. For the first time in recorded history, sea turtle(s) laid eggs in North America, specially at Seal Beach and then at Huntington Beach, California (it could have been the same turtle). The species of turtles is called ridley turtles and they’re the smallest of sea turtles weighing up to 100 pounds. Though I would never think of having a turtle as a pet, I think it would be cool as shit to have them up at my beach here in Ventura! [due to potential residual effects of hurricane Polo and resulting high tides, the Museum of the Pacific relocated the eggs to its facility]
#WarmerWaters #ClimateChange

meme

4. My friend Mary Kay posted this on social media this past week and I couldn’t agree more. Her husband Steve’s response? “I see nothing weird about any of that.” To which she said, “I dig your weird man.” Me too. Love both Mary Kay and Dive Bar Steve Kramer. Miss you guys like the dickens and hope to visit you again up in Oregon soon. Need to see the new place…and get some couch time with the pups!

Steve, Brian and Mick were the Dive Bar Messiahs and they would play classic rock at Amigos, or the Watermark, or Grapes and Hops. You knew I’d be on the dance floor whenever they played “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Stones, which I always felt was just for me. They took a bit of the soul of our music scene when they disbanded, and then when Steve and Mary Kay left the area for the great Northwest.

Photo of Syd Rose, Me, Mary Kay and Steve and all the pets

5. My friend Linda is now a proud grandma! She got the word her daughter-in-law was in labor shortly after the photo taken in #1 above. Congratulations to Nicolas and Isabela, and a big welcome to Esther Rose! Some complications, but all is well in the universe again.

Wishing the family continued growth and happiness!!!

photo of Esther Rose heading home
photo of Nicolas holding daughter Esther Rose

6. Brad Pitt’s latest film is called Heart of the Beast and it’s a story about him and a dog lost in the wilderness. I find it extremely entertaining that all reviews I’ve read to date provide the information that the dog does not die. Ever since Marley and Me I will not go see a film based on a relationship with a dog unless I have a guarantee that the dog does not die. Pitt can die, but not the dog.
This is now on my list of movies to see.

movie poster for Heart of the beast

7. I was surprised and slightly disappointed to find when I searched for a new Stud Finder, I did indeed get photos of stud finders…though there were a couple of studs in a few of the advertisements. I renamed the photo from Stud Finder to Stud Found. #ArtworkNeedsToBeHung

photo of man using stud finder

8. Don’t you hate it when customer service prefaces everything with, “Thanks for your patience”? #NotFeelingPatient

Also, when taking a survey after receiving customer service online and then the final question is “What could we do to better our service?” I like to answer with “less surveys.”

Artwork for Hands Across America

9. If you’re of a certain age, do you remember Hands Across America in the 80s? I participated and held hands with five million other people across the nation On May 25, 1986, to raise awareness and funds to combat poverty and hunger. So when I saw our local chapter of Surfrider Foundation promoting Hands Across the Sand, I was intrigued. A rally was held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 on the sand just north of the Ventura Pier. The rally was to generate attention and let the powers that be that we say “NO to offshore drilling and YES to clean energy.” I attended and heard stories about previous oil spills. From Surfrider website:

Oil spills have been tied to the Central Coast’s history for decades. In early 1969, a blowout on an oil rig offshore from Santa Barbara made national headlines. For a period of ten days, an estimated 3.4 to 4.2 million gallons of crude oil flowed into the Channel, closing nearby beaches and critically threatening flora and fauna. The largest spill recorded at the time, the event created the groundswell for the first-ever Earth Day, on April 22 of the following year. 

Bill Hickman – Surfrider Central CA regional manager
Done photo of Hands Across the Sand
Drone shot of us north of the Ventura Pier

I’ve seen more than my share of black tar ball substances on our local beach here in Ventura over the years. I knew I needed to stand with Surfrider, the Sierra Club, cfrog (Citizens for Responsible Oil and Gas), Patagonia, IndivisibleVentura.org, Chumash People, Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez and all the people who came out to support this effort.

Me watching KC Rodriguez
Me on left listening to KC Rodriquez

From my favorite quotes file: “We’re a part of nature. As we destroy nature, we destroy ourselves. It’s a selfish thing to want to protect nature.” Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia.

Thanks for listening.

A Couple of Things…

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photo of Brandie Carlile in concert

1. I had an excellent 4th row seat for the Brandi Carlile concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl this past weekend. She was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! She has such a strong presence and she’s totally in communication with her audience. And she’s a fan of the BIG notes! I love her so much!! #NewestFan

photo of santa barbara bowl sign

I was able to buy a single seat ticket up near the front via AXS and not the commie rat bastard company Ticketmaster which forces you to buy seats in twos.

Sheldon Cooper

2. I’m sure I’ve mentioned in the past that I’ve been a fan of the Big Bang Theory for many years and I tend to have it on in the background while doing household chores, or working on the computer. One of my all time favorite lines is when Sheldon asks Leonard while dining at Cal Tech’s cafeteria, “Do you know how I know we’re not in the Matrix? To which Leonard asks, “how?” And he says, “If we were, the food would be better.”

3. Typically I do not start a series before they wrap it up with a bow and all episodes are available to binge watch. Unfortunately, it was too late when I realized I made the mistake of starting the 4th season of Reacher while they were still rolling them out week by week. BUT!!! The grand finale was being offered on the big screen along with the premiere episode of Neagley. Plus you know I’m all about the popcorn so I attended. The cost was $20, but Cinemark gave you a $20 voucher to be used at the concession stand.
Seeing the finale on the big screen in XD was extraordinary! Happy I made it go right to attend. BTW, after seeing Neagley, I binged watched the whole season.

image 3 Body Problem cast.

4. And keeping with the binge watching theme…when the hell is 3 Body Problem’s second season coming? If you haven’t watched the first season, here’s the synopsis: A fateful decision in the 1960s China echoes across space and time to a group of scientists in the present, forcing them to face humanity’s greatest threat.

The series debuted March 2024, and the second season still hasn’t been launched. I understand there will be two more seasons. I watched the fist season twice because there’s a lot of information to take in. I might watch it again before I watch season 2.
I dove in to investigate and found that there is a three-body problem in physics and this is the simplest explanation I could find from Live Science:

“In a system of only two bodies, like a planet and a star, calculating how they’ll move around each other is fairly straightforward: Most of the time, those two objects will orbit roughly in a circle around their center of mass, and they’ll come back to where they started each time. But add a third body, like another star, and things get a lot more complicated. The third body attracts the two orbiting each other, pulling them out of their predictable paths.”

I highly recommend the series found on Netflix.

Meme of Signs a woman like you

5. I’m not saying this meme I found on social media is true, but it’s funny as shit!

True signs a woman like you:
eye contact, physical touch, compliments, nervousness, engages with you and asks questions, body language such as mirroring your movements, she says, “I like you.”

comic about talking during concerts

6. Thankful that GOD has St. Peter holding the line on yapping during concerts. I knew I wasn’t the only one who cared. #ThanksBigGuy

Image on social media from KTLA news

7. Hero or idiot?
Story posted on social media from local LA news station, KTLA:
“A man was arrested for allegedly pepper-spraying someone who was using their cellphone during a movie screening at a Burbank theater.
Details: https://ktla.com/…/man-arrested-pepper-spray-moviegoer…/“

Yapping during a movie is also rude behavior. #STFU

photo of volunteers sign up to help

8. The Coastal Cleanup day has come and gone. As a rule, when I’m walking around the neighborhood or along the shore, I pick up trash already. But I checked it out to see if there were a lot of interested citizens to get out there and pick up trash. I would say, it was an “okay” turnout. But then again, I didn’t hang out all day. I’m happy that people do get involved and volunteer their time. #Grateful

9. I’m sorry to report that I saw my first incontinence commercial for men, except instead of calling it leakage, they called it dribbles. So I did a semi-deep dive on the internet and found this article from Harvard: What Can I Do About Urinary Dribbling?

I remember in the 90s being quite irritated with commercials about Viagra when it hit the market and it was being advertised with spokesperson Senator Bob Dole. It really creeped me out.

So this “dribble” product creeps me out as well, though I’d love to see our current sitting president be the face of it like Dole was, because you know he gets the dribbles. #HighlyLikely

Young teenager training on street court playing basketball

SIDENOTE:
when I went to find a photo to go with “male dribbling” rant, thankfully all photos were of men dribbling a basketball. #ThankYouGoogleImages

10. The Bill of Rights contain the first 10 Amendments of the Constitution. And just as a reminder or a teaching moment. The First Amendment of the our Constitution states:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

From my favorite quotes file: “It is part of the price of leadership of this great and free nation to be the target of clever satirists.” – Lyndon B. Johnson

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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artwork showing an A.I. logo

1. More and more I’m seeing AI pop up where I don’t want AI help. Specifically, when building websites. I know a lot of people are worried about AI and its potentially devastating consequences of handing over the human thought process to an automated autonomous entity.
Honestly for me, I enjoy using my brain and doing the research. But I can’t disagree with the gal behind the counter at my chiropractor’s office when she exclaimed, “Did no one see the Terminator?!!”

2. Because I really wanted to know if he thought the Republican Party is doing alright, I decided to see what former Vice President, Mike Pence, had to say about the Republican party when he was a guest speaker at the Reagan Library this past week. My take away: he would like civility back in the White House.
I do stay away from politics on this blog, but come on…both parties have to admit some of those late night tweets are embarrassing!
So while he didn’t really comment on the Republican party (except backhandedly at the current President), his latest book he’s touting is called, “What Conservatives Believe.”

Also, Pence stands by his actions on January 6, 2020 when he certified the election results. #GotThatRight

Photo of Pam and Mike Pence
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Sept 9, 2026

3. A few days later on Saturday, September 12, I attended a fundraising dinner for the Ojai Raptor Center. They’re the organization where the famous bald eagle, Jackie was taken care of. This is the same place where I was gifted an owl release as a birthday gift from my friend Linda a few years ago.
Well the dinner was going well, and they had an owl release (see video at end of this blog), and then towards the end of the evening someone mention Martin Sheen was in attendance.

Okay, something I need to confess. I’m a huge West Wing fan. I’ve watch the series beginning to end at least a half dozen times. So when I heard he was there. I had to meet him. I don’t get star struck too often, but when I do, I try my best to appear like a normal human being. I feel I succeeded. I told him about my love of the West Wing, and I told him about my visit to the Reagan Library to hear Mike Pence speak. He was impressed by what the former Vice President said. Well at least those two points I mentioned above.

photo of me and Martin Sheen
Linda, Brian, Martin Sheen, me, Carlos
Linda, Brian, Martin Sheen, me, Carlos

4. Alfred Hitchcock: Cheeky bastard, or seriously evil?

On a recent podcast, former child star, Billy Mumy (Lost in Space), shared a story working with Alfred Hitchcock and what the director told him when he was fidgeting while the crew worked on the lighting. Keep in mind, Mumy is now in his 70s, Hitchcock long dead. This occurred during a filming of an Alfred Hitchcock Presents episode. Mummy recounts this during the podcast of Pop Culture Retro Podcast

“So Alfred Hitchcock, who was a very physically imposing presence—I’m a little guy—Alfred Hitchcock was a big guy. He was always sweating. He gets up out of his chair, and he lumbers over to me on my mark, fidgeting around, and he bends down. And this is exactly what he said to me: ‘If you don’t stop moving about, I’m going to get a nail, and I’m going to nail your feet to your mark, and the blood will come pouring out of your feet like milk. So, stop moving.’ That’s exactly what he says to me.”

photo of Mumy on Hitchcock presents

As a child, I was a huge fan of Lost in Space, and to this day I can still hear and sometimes quote, “Warning Will Robinson, Warning!”

And by the way, I go with seriously evil.

photo of mumy on Lost in Space

5. When you talk to yourself out loud and give affirmations such as:
Pam, you’re a strong, healthy woman.
Pam, you have such a great memory.
Pam, you’re a delight to others.
Can you just say it, or do you also have to mean it? Seriously, doesn’t your brain know the difference???
Also, if you’re doing affirmations, you already believe you aren’t those things. Am I wrong?
But it is safe to say, we all want to improve and what better way to manifest what we want by stating it out loud to ourselves. #CarryOn

artwork stating: Today I'll be a freaking ray of sunshine.

6. Giving credit where credit is due, I found a page with unique positive affirmations.
Here are a few of my favorites:

  • I am the boss of my own awkwardness.
  • I’m so witty, I could confuse a dictionary.
  • I’m proof that laughter is the best ab workout.
  • I’m a limited edition, not available in stores.
  • I am a burst of energy that even caffeine envies.
  • I attract good luck like a kid with a sticky hand.
  • I’m so charismatic, I could sell sand in a desert.
  • I’m so bright, I make the sun look like a flashlight.
  • I’m not clumsy; I’m just practicing interpretive dance.
  • I’m like a rare Pokémon—hard to find and absolutely legendary.
  • I’m a masterpiece in progress, a little messy, and utterly magnificent.
  • I attract good vibes like a magnet to a fridge.
  • I’m so fabulous, even my coffee has an attitude.
  • I am the CEO of my day, and business is booming.
  • I am a walking masterpiece of chaos and caffeine.
  • I’m so ready to adult today; pajamas are optional.
  • I am a pro at life, even when I don’t have my act together.
  • Today, I’ll be the superhero of my own story, cape or no cape.
  • I am a pro-multitasker, juggling tasks like a circus performer.
  • Today, I’ll handle situations like a pro—or at least like an adult.
  • I am the architect of my day, building it with laughter and smiles.
  • Today, I’ll be productive like a squirrel storing snacks for winter.
Lt. Frank
Lt. Frank

7. I attended the Los Angeles Chargers season opening on Sunday, September 13, at SoFi Stadium. The second half was quite embarrassing as the Chargers lost to the Cards, 14 – 26. But the tailgate party beforehand was super fun and we had an unexpected entertainment moment from the dude above who sneaked up behind me and said, “Ma’am, you’re need on the set.” He was hilarious. He kept pushing the button on the baby monitor and yelling, “COPY THAT.” #ShortShorts

photo of Chargers taking entering arena
View from our seats. Not bad!

8. The 25th anniversary of the attacks on 9/11 just passed. I found one of my posts on social media from 10 years ago in remembrance. It holds up today as well:

“The days and weeks following 9/11 I noticed people were looking each other in the eye; not in fear, but with kindness. I’d like to think of it as an automatic response to an outside attack on our survival, we were banning together as a community.

I truly believe man is basically good and the best response to anyone trying to undermine one’s survival (whether on a personal, national or even mankind level) is to flourish and prosper.”

No need to post a photo to remember what happened. If you were alive, it’s already ingrained your mind.

9. From my favorite quotes file: “Loyalty to country always. Loyalty to government, when it deserves it.” – Mark Twain

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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1. If I could, I would…

  • Run a senior dog sanctuary for all dogs who had to be surrendered by their owners at no fault of their own…and perhaps even those at fault.
  • Run a singer/songwriter listening room.
  • Learn to surf.
  • Have a second home in Tuscany, Italy.

    Best case scenario: home in Tuscany where I can house surrendered senior dogs, being able to ride my bicycle into town where I host singer/songwriter evening weekly…and travel back to Ventura to surf occasionally.
image of clean pot with noodles being cooked

2. I’m a big fan of watching cooking shows, and/or short cooking videos on YouTube or Instagram. What I don’t understand is how they keep their pans so they look like they’ve NEVER been used before. #HowsThatPossible

Though I do admit, I have seen a few with grungy looking cookware and those recipes are not as appetizing.

3. Who the hell coined the expression, “Make good choices!”?

4. I came across this incredible story on social media from the Santa Barbara Independent (click for full story). It’s been years since I’ve visited the Santa Barbara zoo, probably not since Sydney Rose was a little girl (she’s 32 now). But I remember the habitat for these incredible apes (not monkeys because they have no tails). One recently gave birth in front of visitors. The fact it happened for the few who were there to witness it is amazing. But it’s the face of the mom that cracks me up! Nature is truly wonderful. Any thoughts on a caption?

Gibbon walking with new born

5. So proud of Linda! One of her projects is to collect children’s books (English & Spanish) and then stock a local outdoor neighborhood library book stand. This weekend she took it one step further. With the permission of a popular breakfast place, she set up a table and handed out books to anyone who wanted them! Inspiration comes from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. To date, the non-profit has gifted 332,411,218. From the website, “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children from birth to age five, through funding shared by Dolly Parton and local community partners in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and Republic of Ireland.”

Well Linda is doing her part in Fillmore, CA. Way to go Linda! Let me know if you’d like to donate $10 or so bucks so she can buy more books to give away.

Photo of Linda with books

6. My friend Carol adopted a senior pup from the San Bernardino animal shelter.
I’ve been saying for months that I’m going to wait until the end of the summer then I’ll start looking into adopting again. I guess I’m on the hunt now.

She’s thinking of naming this scrappy girl Rosey.

#ILoveHer

photo of dog


7. Warning: this entry is basically for women, but highly educational for men:

I was reflecting the other day about menstruation. And yeah, I guess I’m speaking to women because we can empathize. I remember when I was a little girl learning about the facts of life and how I couldn’t wait to get my first period so I could join the ranks of womanhood. It was thrilling when it it happened, but literally took less than two minutes to realize, this sucks!

Then it slowly dawns on you that you will be dealing with this the rest of your life…whether you choose to procreate or not.

And of course it’s not only the cramps, but the bright red blood that “discharges” from your uterine lining. The past seventy or so years have seen all kinds products to help with this messy and quite colorful problem. From sanitary pads that you attach to a belt around your waist (my mother’s time), to pads that have a peel-off sticky strip that sticks to your underwear. I saw a comedian doing a bit where he thought the sticky side attached to the women’s skin. Funny, but ew. Then came along tampons that you insert and then pull out once they’ve absorbed the flow, but you never know and you can under/over estimate this. And now, there are menstrual cups and something called a menstrual disc, both of which came out after I hit menopause. You insert reusable device so the flow is kept from escaping, and you wear up to 12 hours. I can only imagine what that would look like though. But, it seems better than the tampons.

While doing this research I found one more option called Period Underwear. They’re designed with built-in layers to absorb menstrual blood, which is supposed to keep you comfortable and dry all day long. In appearance and texture, they are identical to regular undies, but it is suggested one wear a couple of pairs on the “high flow” days.

Young women today have more options both economically and environmentally, which is great, but menstruation is still a big inconvenience. For me, menopause was awesome. No more periods!!! The hot flashes (for me, warm flushes) were worth it.

And, I have to admit, I smile every time I get to stroll past the feminine hygiene aisle at the grocery store.

8. I’m fairly certain about this, when you call an older person young lady or young man, it sounds condescending.

9. This photo was taken today at lunch. What you don’t see are dozens of more pigeons outside the frame. It was crazy! Though I don’t yet have a caption for #4 above, I do for this one. “Some people will do anything for attention.” #Birdman #PromenadeVentura

Man feeding birds on promenade in Ventura

10. From my favorite quotes file: “Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?” – David Attenborough.

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things… Gloria Steinem

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Gloria Steinem past away September 2, 2026 at age 92. To live a life to better conditions for others is a life to celebrate. Taking a look at her Wikipedia page, and watching all the news coverage, I will be forever in awe of her accomplishments. I remember reading Ms. Magazine and following her career. I volunteered in the 70s for my local chapter of NOW in no small part trying to live up to her example.
We’ve all seen changes for the better over the decades and changes for the worse. I’m grateful the younger generation joins in to help to fight the battles yet to be won. As with all people I admire, especially those who set such a great example for others, I don’t weep for the loss of this iconic woman, but rather celebrate the life and choices she made to help others and improve conditions for all.

cover of book

Taken from Steinem’s speech in 1971, Address to the Women of America, she said:

“This is no simple reform. It really is a revolution. Sex and race because they are easy and visible differences have been the primary ways of organizing human beings into superior and inferior groups and into the cheap labor on which this system still depends. We are talking about a society in which there will be no roles other than those chosen or those earned. We are really talking about humanism.”

My friend Linda Le Brock once met Gloria so I asked her for her thoughts:

“When I was around 18 years old, Gloria Steinem came to speak at the local college. My mom got tickets for us both to attend. My mom, raised by a single mom of six during the depression, understood the importance of women’s equality. 

“Gloria was erudite, witty, passionate and preternaturally cool. 

“In 2014, a dear colleague, Marybeth Carty, invited me to a private reception held for Gloria Steinem. She spoke of the importance that each generation must expand feminism to include the most marginalized. 

“After her talk, we stood in a receiving line and got to meet and get photos with her. I was introduced as publisher of the Business Times. She exclaimed, ‘Oh I was a publisher too!’ I couldn’t believe it. Here she was VERY generously comparing me, the publisher of a local business journal to being the co-founder (along with Dorothy Pittman Hughes) and publisher of Ms. Magazine! I was speechless. I just stammered thank you, and she gave me a little hug. I watched as she graciously met, and uplifted in some way, every woman there. The room was electric.

“Thank you, Gloria for everything. And thank you, mama.” – Linda Le Brock

Headlines describing Steinem:

“World Famous Feminist Leader” – People
“Feminist Icon and Ms. Magazine Trailblazer” – USA Today
“Fierce Feminist Trailblazer” – NBC News
“Trailblazing Journalist and Activist” – NPR
“Personification of the Feminist Movement” – NYTimes
“Feminist Icon and Founder Ms. Magazine” – CNN

Gloria Steinem quotes:

“Imagine we are linked not ranked.”
“The truth will set you free, but first it will piss you off!”
“Once we give up searching for approval we often find it easier to earn respect.”
“Decisions are best made by the people affected by them.”
“A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”

Thank you Gloria!

A Couple of Things…

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1. I recently took another trip up north. This time the destination was Graham, Washington for a baby shower. You know this has to be special to travel 1,116 miles…for a baby shower. Also, if you know me, it has to be special for me to attend ANY baby shower. Well it’s my dearest friend Linda’s son and wife’s first baby.

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t 100% thrilled about going as I just went to Portland last month, but I’m so happy I did because I had a blast! For starters, we flew up to Portland out Santa Barbara which is a fuckin’ cakewalk. Then Linda’s sister, Candy picked us up and took us to her home where I finally got to meet her husband Morris. It was as if we had all been friends for years, no topic was taboo. Great food, drink and conversation!

Candy drove us the next day up to Graham, Washington where we spent a couple nights at a local Comfort Inn. and while the motel was clean and safe, the neighborhood not so much. Tip to the wise, GoogleMap your destination and use the street view to get a lay of the land.

photo at baby shower
Left to right: Mama to be Isabella, Linda, Candy, me with proud papa above, Nicolas
Nicolas tuning his sitar.
Nicolas did a performance for us on his sitar, totally self taught. It was beautiful. I wish I could share the video here.

It was great to catch up with Linda’s family and the baby shower turned out to be delightful. I was dreading the games, but they were short and not embarrassing at all; well at least not for me. During baby charades, I picked (slips of paper out of a bag), “baby’s first steps” which everyone got right away. Then Morris walked in just in time and we basically coerced him into playing and he picked “giving birth.” Yeah, you get the picture. He was a good sport about it, I’ll give him that!

photo of Mt. Rainer
While leaving Graham, WA, I took this photo of Mt. Rainer.

We arrived back in Portland Sunday afternoon and my daughter Sydney and mate, Nate came for dinner which was the icing on the cake! #AwesomeTrip

2. I found an article about the best and worst place to place your cat’s litter box and that reminded me of one of the perks of being pregnant, other than bringing a new life into existence, is that someone else needs to clean out the litter box.

Vets say this is the worst place to put your cat’s litter box

Pregnant women should avoid cleaning litter boxes primarily due to the risk of toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can have serious health implications for both the mother and the unborn child.

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can be found in cat feces. 

3. My good friend Maggie brought up a very good point recently about our mutual friend Carlos. He’s quite adept at being a Wingman but exceptional when it comes to being a Cockblocker when required. #WorthHisWeightInGold

4. Have you ever wondered what is the best sleep position? Well you can read this article I found on MSN.com. I looked it up after having a conversation with Morris (#1 above) who is a retired doctor who specialized in migraines. He mentioned that if you sleep on your left side, it help with your brain. The article backs this up. ““If you’re lying on your left side, it may actually be better for clearing the waste product in our brain,” he says [Dr. John Saito]. This is called the glymphatic system, a brain’s specialized waste clearance network that washes away harmful metabolic byproducts, including proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease, while we sleep. 

I tend to start on my left, but it’s a crap shoot after I fall asleep.

5. I just heard the Los Angeles Lakers are being sold again for a record $12.5 billion, just 14 months after it was bought for $10 billion. I guess the NBA Board of Governors must still approve the sale (next meeting in September), but tell me this, doesn’t this sound like house flipping. And who will pay the price? Yep, the fans.

6. Speaking of basketball. I’ve started back with regular visits to my chiropractor earlier this month and he was determined to get me back on the court. He asked if I was still shooting and I told him no because I haven’t been able to hit a three-pointer since my knee replacement (10 years ago now!). He started working on my hips, knees, ankles and feet. I’m back on the court and first things first as I’m working on the muscle memories of just making a basket and little by little gaining more distance. We’ll see and you know I’ll report when it happens!

7. I’ve been taking full advantage of the summer weather here at the beach. Inland it’s a heatwave, at the beach…it’s just beautiful. Got Maggie out for a ride up the coast, and Linda out kayaking in the Channel Islands. One works your legs, the other your arms.

Pam and Maggie wearing bike helmets
Linda kayaking

8. There are a number of tribute bands I enjoy and some I tolerate; however, you will never ever see me at an ABBA tribute band show. #PersonalChoice #TrueDat

ABBA album cover
photo of movie poster

9. Who the hell has seen the movie, The Drama? I need someone to discuss it with. You can see it on HBO Max. #CommentBelow

By the way, I no longer envision Edward Cullen when I see a Robert Pattinson movie. #ThankGod

National Treasure official artwork

9. The Hollywood Reporter reports “National Treasure 3” is finally real and the director confirmed they have a script. (see article)

I don’t know why I’ve seen the original and #2 so many times. I guess I find them ridiculously fun!

From my favorite quotes file: “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn

A Couple of Things…

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1. Another year older, another year wiser…well maybe not, time will tell. The birthday dinner this year was share with my good friend Eve Mimiaga who is also a Leo, but her birthday isn’t until August 3. We had a delightful time and then while most went home, Carlos, Maggie and myself went out for a night of dancing (sorry no photography or video allowed for that!).

Birthday dinner at Prime

2. The Ventura County Fair opened this past week. The night before day one, I was invited for what they call a “Fair Tasting” event, so you know, they offered up a bunch of deep fried food and crap you wouldn’t normally eat. It was super fun and they even ran the Ferris wheel for all attendees for free.

photo of Big Bear Lake

3. While Jackie the Eagle continues treatment at the Ojai Raptor Center, other good news was revealed. Earlier this year, the non-profit organization, San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust had launched a grassroots fundraising campaign to raise $10 million by July 31, 2026, to save Moon Camp from development. They raised just about half the funds required when a gift from Anna and Greg Brockman (co-founder and president of Open AI) donated $5.5 million. Now the 63 acres will remain undisturbed forest and the planned luxury housing development of 50 homes is axed.
The SBMLT can now purchase the property and have remaining funds to cover closing costs, taxes, legal fees and maintain the land.

4. Issues with bugs? Avoid introducing toxins in your home and try this out.
Homemade roach/ant spray
2 cups of vinegar, distilled
2 cups of water
3 tablespoon dishwashing liquid
3 tablespoons table salt
Spray Bottle
Mix ingredients together, add to a spray bottle; shake well before spraying each time.
Source: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/outdoor/pest-repeller/homemade-roach-spray-good-for-ants-and-other-bugs-too-43527424

5. I’ve always been a lover of radio since I was a little girl. The sense of community and music I loved was always a source of endless joy. Radio, whether it be AM or FM, has changed over the decades with most people opting for paid music services such as Sirius…but not me. I love local radio. This mime explains it all:

Placard about radio shared experience

My own career in radio in the 80s and 90s was not just about music that people loved, but it was about being a part of the community. #MissItDearly

6. While watching previews before seeing The Odyssey, my friend Mr. Mimiaga noted the upcoming scary movie, “Other Mommy” staring Jessica Chastain, should be “Other Mother” because that would rhythm. #TrueDat #MissedOpportunity

7. So yes, I saw The Odyssey. My main concern was the length of the movie vs the size of my bladder. I took a per-emptive tinkle and I did just fine. I will avoid spoiler alerts, so must the basics. With the movie just under three hours I was delighted to find I never almost dozed off as the pace kept me engaged. I was impressed by the acting by such a stellar cast. I did not see it on an IMAX screen, but did pay the extra $3 dollars for XD (Xtreme Digital) at the local Cinemark in Oxnard and it was fabulous. I will definitely watch it again when it comes available on streaming services. #Worthy #OscarBuzz

8. I had a conversation with male friend about how I’ve never been a fan of movies such as Troy, Braveheart, Black Hawk Down, 300, Gladiator, and I guess I need to include Lord of the Rings (I tried watching it several times and always fell asleep within 15 minutes; the same can be said for 2001: A Space Odyssey).
But there are testosterone driven movies such as Fight Club, The Accountant, and now The Odyssey which I do love. #GoFigure

9. One more side note…Though I haven’t yet read The Odyssey, I felt I’d seen a lot of the supernatural events previously. It turns out the same themes and monsters in a mythical land were used in the 1958 fantasy film, 7th Voyage of Sinbad. It used to run on TV weekend afternoons and I’d be fascinated by it as a child.

From my favorite quotes file: “The main reason women are crazy, is that men are stupid.” – George Carlin.

A Couple of Things…

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1. I took in a matinee to see Toy Story 5. As expected, it was delightful, and I had a chuckle or two hearing little kids talk back to the big screen. Sydney did that when she was a wee tot when I took her to see Barney’s Great Adventure in 1998. Barney is a purple dinosaur and about as geeky and sweet as you can get when it comes to children’s programming. On the big screen Barney is searching for an something (off to the side of the set) as he put his hand above his eyes and the kids in the audience (including Sydney) were screaming, “It’s over there, Barney!!!”
In any case, Toy Story 5 was sweet, but for adults without kids, you might want to wait for it to come out on a streaming platform.
I do admit how sweet it was that everyone stayed to listen to the Taylor Swift song at the end. I did not.
Next up, The Odyssey.

Fake sign at Taco Bell
Relax, I’m sure this is a joke 😉

2. After hearing for weeks about the Cyclospora outbreak causing explosive diarrhea, it was finally tracked back to lettuce which Taco Bell used from Taylor Farms. The outbreak to date was traced back to nine states: Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania.
Of course, the supplier could have shipped said contaminated lettuce to other restaurants. To be honest, I’ve always thought Taco Bell’s lettuce tasted odd.

I’m a fan of their Crunchwrap Supreme made with black beans. I will order without lettuce moving forward. I hear the enchirito is back. By the way, did you know you can ask for such add ons such as pico de gallo, purple cabbage, rice, onion and cilantro blend? Check out their on-line menu:
https://www.tacobell.com/food/specialties/enchirito

3. I was recently doing research for https://venturarocks.com/ calendar of events when I saw that Stanley Simmons is playing the Ventura Music Hall next month. The name sound familiar? Turns out it the sons of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. I figure I saw their pops play several times in the 70s, I might as check them out and see they’re chips off the old blocks. But alas…two days later, the show was cancelled/postponed. #Standby

4. Things took a horrible turn with the Big Bear Valley Eagles when one of the parents, Jackie, was seen on video being attacked by other eagles (out of towners). Shortly after, an eagle was filmed being scooped out of the lake, clearly in distress. Eventually taken to the Ojai Raptor Center (I love these guys, same organization where I was gifted an owl release), Jackie is good hands. The bad news, she is on the critical list as she is experiencing severe anemia and inflammation affecting the kidneys. The good news, she had the condition before the eagle attack which proved she was strong enough to fend off the attack. She is alert and eating, but only time will tell. #FingersCrossed #PrayForJackie #SendPositveVibes

5. Sending congratulations to Spain for winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup beating Argentina 1-0 after extra-time. The World Cup happens every four years. The Women’s will be next year and from what I understand in 2023, Spain beat England 1-0 in the final game.
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/womens/womensworldcup/australia-new-zealand2023

6. Am I the only one who has trouble getting a doctor appointment, and then once I get it (typically weeks if not months out), I get a call to reschedule it? WTF????

Photo of a dog named Mouse on my lap

7. Okay, looks like I’ll be getting my hair done more often now! This is Mouse, and he enjoys sitting on your lap while you get your hair cut.

He and his sister had a run of the place which is to say they make their rounds apparently monitoring to make sure everyone behaves themselves.

Brilliant!

8. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe is the name of the show, and if you ask me, the title needs “Spoil Alert” ahead of it. It’s streaming on HBO Max, spinoff of The Big Bang Theory. I saw the first episode and I’m not quite sold on it, but will give it a few more episodes.

hammock at airport

9. KTLA Saturday morning news, reported that the TSA reminds us that to help the stress of layovers, hammocks are allowed in the terminals. The reporters quipped it sounded like an April Fool’s joke. I couldn’t agree more so I search online and it’s certainly a story circulating. I found this article, but just google TSA & Hammock and a whole bunch of stories can be found: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/tsa-reminds-travelers-that-this-item-used-for-naps-is-allowed/ar-AA28xN5Y

10. From my favorite quotes file: “Every man dies, not every man really lives.” – William Wallace

(William Wallace was a Scottish knight and national hero who led the resistance against English rule during the First War of Scottish Independence)

Thanks for listening!

A Couple of Things…

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Road trip to Portland, Oregon

The last time I saw my daughter, Sydney Rose, was last summer when she brought her new beau, Nate, to visit here in Ventura. They stayed a week and it was fabulous. As you may remember, my daughter earned her Masters degree in Food Science earlier this year from Oregon State, and she recently landed a new job up in Portland (where said beau also lives). She invited me to visit her new place before other roommates moved in. She didn’t have to ask twice.

With a lot of time on my hands, I decided to road trip it and take my time. Also I learned it is much cheaper to fly than drive…but you live and learn and I got to visit several friends and check out new places.

Redding, California: Sundial Bridge

I left on a Thursday with a schedule overnight stay in Redding, California. I was told by my good friend Maggie, that the Sundial Bridge is worthy of a visit and it was! Apparently the giant sundial is set for the Summer Solstice when its shadow moves 1 foot per minute between 11 am and 3pm. Otherwise, it’s non functional, but pretty to look at. That pylon at the end (the sundial) is 217 feet high and requires a red, aircraft-warning light. The floor is translucent, but not see-through. It allows light to reach the water to protect salmon during spawning season.

Shasta Caverns

The next day I planned to leave Redding for Medford but it was only a two and half hour drive and I had four hours between check out time in Redding (11 am) and check in time in Medford (3 pm). While I was driving through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, I kept seeing signs for the Shasta Caverns, so I thought I’d check that out. Now while it’s a national natural landmark, it’s privately owned and the crew were all super friendly. I asked how long the tour was and I was told two hours which included a thirty minute boat ride across the lake and a shuttle ride up the mountain to the entrance. I was sold.

Caverns shuttle bus

The tour inside was fascinating but a bit grueling as at one point you had to climb over 85 steps, none of which were standard sized stairs. But with the weather outside almost 100 degrees, the coolness inside was a welcomed reprieve. The caverns are constantly 58 degrees Fahrenheit with a high humidity level of 90 to 95% which raises the temperature to about 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. I super appreciative that I don’t get claustrophobic because there were some tight quarters at times. But it was very educational (I took geology at Ventura Collage ten years ago, and put what little knowledge I retained to good use) and the folks on my tour were very nice. I chatted up several couples (from Seattle, Nevada and Colorado) and I met a single young man who was scouting property nearby to purchase. He ended up grasping my hand and helping me up the final stairs after returning to home base. I was sincerely grateful.

Medford, Oregon

With the caverns behind, I arrived in Medford around 4 pm and scheduled dinner with Sydney’s best friend Eli. I took a rideshare to the restaurant knowing wine would be involved. At one point, another waitress came by and set an appetizer on our table and left. We looked at each other knowing we didn’t order it. So I caught the waitress’s eye and motioned her back to the table and told her we didn’t order the deep friend mozzarella sticks. She apologized and picked them up, so I quickly told her Eli already licked them. We all laughed and she asked if we wanted them because regardless of whether they were licked or not, they would have to throw them away. So we opted for the free appetizer.
A little over three hours and a bottle and a half of wine, we said our goodbyes. Sorry to say I forgot to get a photo of us…perhaps the wine played a hand in that.

Side note: There was a fire about 15 miles from my hotel. Looked scary, but the wind dissipated overnight and it wasn’t a threat.

Portland, Oregon

On Saturday, I arrived at the house Sydney is renting early afternoon and we quickly caught up. We decided to catch a movie (not Toy Story 5) and Sydney thought I would enjoy Backrooms. It’s received a lot of online chatter and has had a long run in theaters because of it. It’s a small production indie film which came from a viral creepypasta which expanded on a web series. And yes, “creepypasta” is a real word defined as a genre of short horror stories shared online.
That being said, I still don’t quite know what happened. I don’t know if anyone can clearly explain it. IMDB says, “The film blends psychological horror with science fiction, emphasizing atmosphere and the feeling of being trapped in a nonsensical space.”

The film leaves you with an ambiguous understanding at the ending and from I understand, one can spend hours going down the rabbit hole of fan theories. #I’mGood

Portland with Sydney and Nate

We caught up with Nate on Sunday and got lunch then spent hours thrift shopping, one of Nate’s favorite past times. Sydney needed a TV stand and after a handful of stores we finally found one she absolutely loved. Nate then brought up the subject of a spa he is a member of and which Sydney goes with him several times a week and asked if I would be interested in visiting it. He also said it’s clothing optional and promised both he and Sydney would be in swimsuits (which normally they are “in the buff”). We did and it was quite relaxing between the wet sauna, dry sauna, lounging spaces, jacuzzi and ice plunge tubs. I did not opt for the latter, but everything else was great.
We then headed out for Wings, beer and fries. Nate is wonderful and the two of them are cute as buttons.

Roseburg, Oregon

I left Sydney early Monday and headed to Roseburg for a visit with Loree Pryce. We met a number of years ago when she worked at City Hall in the same Engineering division as me. She’s a big lover of live music so we had that in common right away. She bought property off the beaten path in Roseburg. I was put up in her RV parked outside.

We took about a mile walk to the Umpqua River and took a quick dip as temperatures were in the 90s. I thought the water would be freezing, but it was very comfortable.
After dinner, we had some wine and relaxed in her hot tub in the back.
Next time I hope to spend more time to explore Roseburg.

Sacramento, California

It was boiling hot by the time I arrived in the state capital on Tuesday. Flags were at half staff in honor of the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, a big proponent of “he who shall not be named.” I ventured out long enough to walk up the street to get dinner at a local Mexican restaurant. One of my long-standing rules is to eat local cuisine rather than chain restaurants like Applebees. I do have to admit several of the ones I choose smelt of septic tanks.

I got a good enough night’s rest and left for home. Google Maps said six hours, but it turned out to be a bit more because there was a crash on the Tejon Pass adding an hour delay. Signs recommended turning off air conditioning because of the high grade and 100+ temperature. To add insult to injury, Google Maps gave me the warning of a crash ahead after the last place to stop for water and/or a bathroom break.

But I made it home with lots of happy memories, but next time I’m flying!