I am more confused now. I thought today was an "official" holiday called Presidents Day. After doing some research I think the term "President's Day" was started by car dealers and retail establishments. One thing for sure, whatever it is, or is not, it's a darn good day to buy a car.
In past blog entries I have made reference to the "bad spouse." I mean no disrespect to her when I say this. I realize it takes two to tango and neither of us knew the steps. I'm not overly concerned that she will read any of this. As far as I know she still does not have, or use a computer. I know that "our" grown and on her own for years daughter, Rebecca reads this from time to time. I should think of a different moniker for her mother. OK, I'm thinking.
Speaking of thinking, this morning I was thinking about my first presidential memories. It was Dwight Eisenhower, probably his second run for office in 1956. I was seven years old during that election and convention year, soon to turn eight. I doubt I was aware of his first election and term in office which began in 1953. His opponent in both his election victories was Adlai Stevenson. My parents I guess were Democrats since I remember election campaign buttons that read, "All the way with Adlai" which rhymed. I suppose the dems ran Stevenson twice to save on button and campaign sign expenses.
Getting back to the "haven't thought of a new name yet spouse." She and I really didn't have much in common. Politics was one of the big Uncommon things.
I just took a look at some election information where something caught my eye. The bio of Jimmy Carter has one of his occupations listed as "Farmer." It struck me funny, this country could have a farmer as it's supreme commander and head honcho leader. Then I saw the following head mans bio, he was an actor!
It's 1976 and we are on our way to the voting poll garage just down the street. We are about half way there when a neighbor calls out to us, "Hey, did you hear the news, Carter just conceded." We have not yet cast our all important ballot and the presidential race is over. I don't have the words to describe just how unimportant that made me feel, for about thirty minutes. What the heck, there are other decisions to be made so we continued our walk to the polls.
Back at the house with the television tuned to election returns, a beer in hand, I watch with great anticipation. "she who is still not named" comes into the room and sits down. We begin to talk about various measures, "So, how did you vote on the capitol punishment measure?" I ask. "I voted for it," she replies. (i voted against it). "How about the gun control bill?" I next ask. She thought for a moment, (probably thinking about where she left her gun) then responded, "I voted against it." (i voted for it). Then we came to a local measure. "What about the recycle bottle and can law?" I asked. Without a seconds hesitation she said, all in one breath. "I voted against it and I know you voted for it, so, if it passes, you can take your own damn bottles and cans back to the store."
I think the divorce was final before the next election.
We have a great group of friends. I've talked about how often we get together for all sorts of events. The picture was taken last year at our annual Nevada City gathering. We have sort of an unwritten, actually an untalked about understanding. Politics, Religion, and Sex are three subjects we don't discuss. Reminds me of an old joke from Rodney Dangerfield.
My girlfriend said, "Don't even talk about sex until we are married." Just after we got married she said, "OK, now you can talk about sex all you want."
I was talking to Aunt Lee the other day about her getting a computer. She absolutely, positively, unequivocally does not want one. Although she happens to be 95 years old, or young, she is certainly sharp enough to use one. She recently bought and learned how to use her Hi-def TV with DVR and On Demand. If she could figure out how to record with the DVR and search for programs On Demand I know she can use a lap top.
It seems like some things are not worth the time to learn when we get older. Yesterday I discovered I have been making coffee the wrong was my entire life.
According to "Cook's Illustrated" for a good cup of coffee I should be extracting between 18 and 22 percent of the soluble solids from my coffee beans, so, I should:
1. Use filtered water
2. Heat the water between 195 and 205 degrees
3. Grind the beans to the right consistency for the appropriate brewing times (you don't want to know)
4. Add the right amount of coffee to water....two tablespoons for every 6oz. water
5. Keep the coffee pot clean
Gee, now I really want a cup of coffee, If you all will excuse me, I am off to the local Starbucks.
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