Down Memory Lane

Operation Clean the House continues, as I went through a bunch more drawers and stuff.  I found all sorts of interesting things, most of which could be recycled.  Among the stuff saved were all of the extant scoresheets from high school and college quiz bowl (state champs, baby!), the contestant list from the 1995 TOC (it seems most are still alive!), my folder of interesting articles (which I should read), lists of books (which I should read), my list of the complete works of Agatha Christie (are we detecting a pattern here), and a box of watches, which I should see if they can be fitted with batteries.  Much more to do, honestly.  Hell, there is also some laundry to do, a shower to clean, and OC/SVDP stuff to go through as well.  Alas.  I mean, I am supposed to be off, but... we all know me.

Continuing my trend of going through the Tivo list, I watched "The Great Escaper," the PBS Masterpiece show about Bernie Jordan, a WWII vet who escaped his old age home to attend the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings festivities.  Cute; I thought I would like it, and I did.  I think Mom would have liked it as well, despite the accents.

One thing Mom would not have approved of was today's lunch choice.  My sister and I had much to discuss, and it was my turn to choose, so I selected Tiflis Georgian Bakery in Parma Heights.  It was good -- the meat pies were quite large (took some home) and good.  The app of pickled vegetables was good as well but not $12 good, if you get my drift.  I mean, I was glad I went, and might go back -- couple of interesting things on the menu, and I skipped dessert this time, as I am fat enough.

What the Democrats' autopsy should have focused on
Interesting article, but I think it is fair to say that ALL parties do this; you could say that Trump did when pardoning the J6 rioters, everyone else under the sun, tariffs, etc.  Not exactly sure how you solve it; when you win, you have to capitalize on it by delivering, even if it means to excess.

How Trump Became the Unlikely Champion of Easing Marijuana Restrictions - WSJ
Such as this (for example).  Now, to be sure, I don't believe that the government should protect us from everything -- it doesn't as it is now -- and pot is the sort of thing where it probably isn't going to kill you, so... I mean, think of crypto; it is the sort of thing where if you are dumb enough invest in it (or at least enough to hurt) you deserve what you get.  I guess I would say that pot is the same thing and it is probably a better course that we regulate and tax it.

How Long Before Tim Walz Faces Indictment? – PJ Media
This is a good question to ask, and it is not just the governor who should be called to the carpet.  Actually, I note that a lot on the right are asking this very thing, and cutting off funding is just the first step; ideally the indictments will come before the midterms, as chopping off fraud is one way to improve affordability...

Mattie the Domestic Goddess

Dare I say I have had a busy day?  It started by waking up early and making turkey soup.  Again, it is not hard, but it is time-consuming (like jello); you boil down the bones to make the stock (I diced the veggies before -- I added peppers and mushrooms to the mix), then added everything, cooked it some more, and added the flour/water thickener.  I decided not to add egg noodles this time -- a bit healthier in that it has fewer carbs -- but I think it is a bit less thick because I didn't add them.  Alas.  I mean, it is still quite good but I think I prefer a soup with a thicker base.

I had a late-PM dentist to fill a small cavity and I was a little reluctant to go out with the weather; you could hear the wind all day (my lights even flickered) and there were some flurries about.  But I went and it was...fine?  The roads were quite clean and while I saw some substantial trees down, overall it was not bad at all.  O ye of little faith.  Must admit it was a bit jarring after the pleasantness of last night...

Once I got back from the dentist it was time to get into Operation Clean My House.  Today I cleaned out the bottom half of my desk, which I had probably not done in two decades.  I found an impressive collection of coin wrappers (I sort of want to fill them, though it will take a lifetime to do so), address labels (see previous comment), writing utensils (many of which I will donate), and paper and notebooks -- who uses paper anymore?  Ok, me, but as I have six-point font when I write... well, anyways, what is left is much cleaner and more neatly organized, which is much better.

I multitasked while going through stuff -- I put a massive quantity of paper into the recycle box -- and watched the 1941 film version of Stephen Vincent Benet's "The Devil and Daniel Webster," one of my favorite short stories.  It was... meh?  To me, they spent way too much time chronicling his rise/deal with the Devil and not the trial scene/ending, which has far more dramatic possibilities.  Benet worked on the screenplay, so I wonder why he went with that...

Mattie Awakes

No posting for a couple of days...alas.  Saturday were errands, a gym double, and making jello for family Christmas - it came out perfectly, phew!  And then yesterday was family Xmas on my Dad's side.  It was nice -- not as many people due to illness -- and it was a bit energetic, as my fun-loving cousin hosted, but it was good to see everyone and get together.  It sort of ended earlier than expected; I had to take a cousin to the airport (I was the only sober person there, or sober enough to operate a motor vehicle), and we were finishing the poker game.  Ate too much, as always -- I am at 183 pounds, and that is not acceptable!

I am trying to hit my goal of reading 50 books.  I finished two over weekend -- one was the Mike Pence autobiography, which was...interesting?  I do like the insider perspective, but again, it is the truths they want to tell, and what actually happens.  I also finished Overy's Rain of Ruin, which is a truncated (well-written and informative, but short) look at the end of WWII with Japan.  He argues (as in his other books) that the US conventional bombing of Japan was quite effective, that the Japanese were running out of the will to fight, that the atomic bombs nudged them into surrender, and that there is almost no evidence that we dropped the bombs as a warning to the Soviets.  I think we tend to forget that and that the worry over US casualties were the main reasons why we dropped them, and no one should feel badly about it.

Donald Trump and Mike Lindell are targeting Tim Walz. Some Republicans are worried that could backfire. - POLITICO
This could be me, but we need to win here, and while yes we should smack Walz around with fraud and such, it would be much harder with Lindell at the top of the ticket, and as such... we should find someone else.  I am a little surprised no one at the White House gave him a federal job, but...sometimes I do wonder who is advising POTUS, and then I recall that it matters but not that much...

Mattie the Maelstrom

Hard to believe no posts in two days... anyways, let's catch up.  Christmas Eve was fine; I woke up early to hit the gym and then to the grocery store for some items.  I went to the local Giant Eagle --  not my first choice as it is a bit pricey but convenient -- and lo and behold they had chicken thighs and fresh turkey for 29 cents a pound.  A pack of chicken thighs is one thing, but the bird... on the other hand, it was a 14.67-pound turkey for less than $5, and I think we know what happened next.  Anyways, I then went home, changed loads, and off to the mall to get the late-arriving presents wrapped and to get the last-minute gifts.  Phew!  Once that was done, it was home to bake peanut butter cookies for the brother-in-law and to decorate the house (having spent all of yesterday putting it back together)...  Phew!  Xmas Eve was spent with my sister, brother-in-law, and niece; we ate and hung out, and it was quite nice.

Christmas Day was....fine.  Woke up, went to Mass, and it was...outstanding?  I mean, it always is -- the church is decorated, we have drums and full music, and there is something to be said when the sun breaks and all the light comes through the stained glass windows; as I so often say, we just eschew the lights and go with the sun only.  Everyone was chatty and ebullient, and while I am not exactly either, even I got in the spirit, catching up and whatnot.  Then off to the gym for a fierce workout (the place was quite, for 10 AM on Christmas, though maybe I should not be surprised).  Got dressed and made the southern rounds to visits friends and godchildren.  I got home about 4ish and immediately transitioned to Operation Cook Fresh Turkey.  Bit different than the frozen one; lots of blood (had to sterilize the sink and counter, oi) and that was a pain.  As for the cooking.. after 3+ hours, it was perfect -- too much so, as it literally fell apart while trying to move it from the pan/tray to the settling dish.  I had to get a second one, at which point I realized the enormity of how much bird I have (not that I emptied the freezer from the last one).  Not sure what I will do with all of it, for many reasons.  Also -- all of the exertions of the day must have tired me out, because I crashed by 10 and slept through the alarm today.

Might not have been a bad thing -- it appeared there was AM ice; my mailbox, I noted, was frozen when I went to get the Xmas Eve mail (including Christmas cards, which I guess is good).  Anyways, did some cleaning, went to the OC to help with the pickups (we are closed tomorrow, which is fine, but I have no idea where we will put next week's stuff!), gym, and then some more cleaning and such.  Not sure, but again like last night, I am...feeling it.  I know I am not the youngster I once was -- and yes if I had proper sleep habits it would be easier -- but I am beginning to think that this is a bit ridiculous.

Mattie has the day

I have new windows!  And, I have to admit, my bedroom IS warmer; normally you can sense the chill the minute you walk in, but not anymore.  It is quite nice, I have to admit, and quite the change.  One drawback: while putting in the picture window -- which is a custom size -- the exterior unit was dropped and shattered.  Oops.  So it will have to be re-cut and ordered, and ideally -- they mentioned two weeks -- it will be installed.  Other than that, they look good.  They are larger than the old windows, so that they took out the blinds...and they will have to be installed, if I want to; not sure if I do.  Ok, I will; just need to find someone -- if not me -- to do it.  Have to admit, the crew was quite nice -- cleaned better than I would have -- and were there early and stayed late to make it as proper as possible.  

In the meantime, most of my night has been spent putting things back together; I started in the spare rooms, then my warmer bedroom, then the kitchen and living room, which was sort of the worst.  I mean, pushing furniture back and dusting again is fine (I am picturing what else I want to start going through this weekend), but the living room was a hot mess.  Both drapes had to be re-hung, the brackets broke, I had a time putting them back up, fill in the blank.  But it is largely done, and tomorrow I can finish decorating for the holiday...after I run some errands and hit the gym.  Exciting stuff, I can assure you.

The Lost Generation | Compact
Interesting, but the question is what happens now?  How do we respond?  How do you take an entrenched position?  Do you cede the position?  In some ways that is the smart play, but cutting off 40% of the population from entire careers is not an option.  To be sure, the Trump Administration is around, but we cannot count on that forever.  The talk conservatives make about creating parallel spaces makes some sense, but "separate but equal" didn't work then and won't work now.  As with most things, not letting it happen in the first place is the smartest option.

SNAP recipient goes viral: "What’s the point of food stamps if it's just for real food?" | Not the Bee

As I so often say, this is why we vote Republican, isn't it?

Advent in many senses

Well, with the exception of the bedroom curtains and the TV, everything has been moved and it ready for the window installers.  The place is a mess, and I know it will be worth it, but this is no way to live!  And of course, last year, I had them upgrading the bathroom about this time... I need to do my home repairs in the summer, obviously.  More seriously, I will start the next one -- whatever I decide -- once this gets paid down.  I am not saying that I will be adopting more frugal measures after Christmas, but it is always an option.  :)   I probably should be, as I want to get these things done, if you get my drift.

I have a pile of Christmas cards to answer and reply to.... I should get on that tonight, if not tomorrow; I mean, right now it is unlikely the will arrive for Christmas as it is.  It is the thought that counts, to be sure, and given the quantity of mail, if it is late...but still, I need to procrastinate less about these things.  Course, I have yet to get through my backlog of J! episodes, so...

Why Steakhouses Were So Popular in 2025 | Eater
Interesting.  Like many people, I find the vegan to be more than slightly annoying, so...well, given how few people are vegans/vegetarians, I am a bit surprised that so many of these places stayed open in the first place.  Yes, some of us will go to those places and try new things, but in most cases... we avoid them like the plague, so... it is very difficult to stay open if you only cater to 20% of the population.  Here in Cleveland we really don't have that many...

Young conservative women find a home in Turning Point | AP News
Also interesting; I would think we should try to attract as many young women as possible, and worry about their aspirations and such later, but that is me...

Trump Administration Urges White Men to File Discrimination Claims - NOTUS — News of the United States
This is hilarious, and I definitely think that this should be tried.as often as possible to as many different organizations and groups -- especially left-wing ones.  I think we all know most of these things will not be successful, but as with so many other things... the fun is in the trying.

Whirlwind

Yesterday's Duke loss was... well, unspeakable?  They pissed away that game multiple times; from being up 19, to getting Texas Tech's best (and tallest) player in foul trouble, to not getting him out of the game, to not making FTs... oi.  I am glad I was decorating the tree at the time, otherwise I would have thrown the TV out the window.  Alas.  There is a difference between a team having great players, and a great team, and so far...  sigh.

Funny, because yesterday was a good day besides.  I got up at the buttcrack of dawn, hit the gym, did some errands, did some Xmas shopping, got them wrapped at the mall, picked up some gift cards, and even treated myself to lunch at Wally Waffle -- quite good.  It was Mom's Angel Day yesterday (five years) and I guess I honored her by eating at a place she would have enjoyed.  I also bought a Christmas tree -- a bit smaller than usual, a bit crooked, but really quite beautiful.  It was also a bit wider than my stand -- some burrs and branches were in the way, so I had to saw those off before getting it in the stand.  Paul Bunyan references aside (and inappropriate references as well), once it was in... perfect.  Then it was off to move more furniture around (almost done) and get the house ready for the windows; it is quite a hot mess here.  I put the tree up and decorated it while watching the game, and it is beautiful.  Let's hope no one bumps it Tuesday!  There is no use putting up more decorations, so those boxes remain here -- to save space I put the ornament ones in the attic.  While I will be pleased with the windows, it has been a hot mess so far!

I was a little discombobulated this morning; I decided to do some laundry this morning (clean out the clothes pile, as we have to move the washer and dryer), and it took a little longer than expected, so I had to hurry to Mass.  Then at Mass, I felt... odd?  Like tired, nervous, and ill; I wasn't sure what to do, but made. it through, and with some prayer and some water, it passed.  Very odd, and I have felt fine the rest of the day; I do need to rest -- both sleep and idleness -- but not yet.  Indeed, even today, I went through the email list and handled some paperwork, did some dishes, and moved more crap -- TV and last curtain tomorrow.

Power Brokers, by Nick Bowlin
Interesting; you would think a legislature -- even one in Ohio -- would be interested in this, or even the governor, but if the utilities are so deeply in their pockets...well, that is a problem in and of itself.

Dust Devils

I do believe I caught emphysema tonight... I think I mentioned this but the new windows get installed Tuesday and everything (or at least as much as I can) has to be three feet from the windows.  This is going to be a chore, as I have a lot of stuff, and the rooms are standard 10 by 10... the library went mostly fine, but the spare room was much more challenging and I am not sure what to do with the bedroom -- the bed is one thing, and I think everything is just ok.

There is another problem; in addition to not only NOT having bought a tree yet, I decided to wait until tomorrow (much warmer) to get the Xmas stuff done.  Normally I put the boxes and such in the spare room, but that is...well, ready for battle and thus not exactly full of space.  I guess I can put everything back in the attic once I decorate, but that is... a tight time.  The thought did cross my mind to NOT get a tree this year (as I did for so many years!) but...well, it IS Christmas and I do like it.  Also, I need to move furniture around, and again... it usually ends up in the spare room, where for now, it cannot stay.  Mind you, I have all sorts of other things (SVDP, like, work, Xmas shopping) to do.  I am hoping one package arrives Sunday and stuff gets bought tomorrow.  Then, all that needs to be done is taking it to be wrapped.  I hope.

Finally watched the POTUS speech, and I think the mainstream opinion is correct; yes, he is right to accentuate what he inherited, but...that is nice but not the present reality.  And, he is who he is, but... some diction or speechmaking or something need to be done; it was a big run-on, and it did not help the effectiveness.  The man does better when there is someone or something to mock, but there are times when one cannot even conjure up that.

One side benefit (of sorts) of all this furniture moving was the realization that I should be going through the closets, shelves, etc.; some of the stuff I have not moved or touched in 20 years, and even with sentimental value...well, at the very least I should see what I have.  I do have some off time between Xmas and the NYD, and I think I know how I will be spending part of it...

Mattie Goes Out

So last night I met a friend at the Velvet Tango -- I think I have been there but wasn't sure.  Anyways, it was...nice?  Cozy?  Sort of off the beaten path, but in one of those parts of town with no parking, or, as we say, skeebally.  I had an old-fashioned there because, well, I have never had one, always wanted to try it, and that was the place for it.  I am not exactly a whiskey fan, and I will not be having another -- bit harsh.  But it was fun to catch up and all.  Not exactly sure what happened, but the thing hit me hard when I got home, as I ended up crashing on the floor and waking up at 4 in the morning with the lights on.  Oops.

Tonight I decided to double down and met another friend for dinner at Patron Saint; I saw their "Feast of the Seven Fishes" promotion and I convinced him to try it.  As we all know, I love going to Ohio City, and tonight showed why, as I had to park six blocks away and hoof it.  To be sure, it was a beautiful evening, it is Christmas, so everyone and their brother was out.  Ok.  As for the food, it was... good not great?  It was more shared plates and apps than dinner, which was fine, but after I ate and talked... I was still hungry.  And, for what I spent...anyways, I hoofed it over to West 25th and got some tacos... well, it was a beautiful night, perfect for a stroll.  Tomorrow with the weather and such I will not be going out, but I will be going up, as I need to get the Xmas decorations out.  I have yet to buy a tree, and that is...Saturday.

They called about the windows -- installation is Tuesday (they are moving it up).  In some ways this is not the best time, as I have 9,000 things to do at work, but on the other hand, sooner is better -- a Christmas present to myself, in that my house might be a bit less cold and the gas bill less onerous.  It is not like the Fed will cut interest rates again, so I may as well start paying it down now.  I just have to remember to move the furniture away from the windows and take down the drapes.  And, of course, put them back.

Records show Ohio University football coach was fired for multiple violations of his contract
Dare I say this may be the new market efficiency?  Find some shit the coach is pulling, fire him, and save the money?  I mean, I have to admit, the booze after the game is a violation, but not the firing type, but dipping the pen in the company ink...probably is the sort of thing that should be verboten.  And, with all of the stuff going on at UM, now is the perfect time to do the same!

Mattie is bemused

So last night I was tired and a bit down and went to bed early; maybe not 8 hours, but more than 7, which is good for me...  and I woke up this morning and didn't exactly feel all refreshed.  Indeed, I was sort of tired, which I attributed to being overtired.  And now of course I cannot sleep.  To be sure, I had a busy day -- work, meeting, haircut, some holiday shopping, and dinner out (I needed a gift card and decided to eat at the place -- it was a wise choice in the end!).  So now I am home and I am not quite tired.  One minor downside:  I ordered stuff for my sister and her family (sauces and such from a place in GA they like) and one of the jars (the one I ordered for myself, thank God) broke.  Sigh.  Hence I had to clean off everything, throw out the box, and try to figure out how to re-pack everything.  But, tomorrow is another day, and we will figure it out...  at least I have some gifts, and will try to get more this week. 

‘Extremely demoralizing’: Republicans respond to the bombastic Wiles interview - POLITICO
Um....this I need to finish reading -- I read half of part one, but... this is 1) An odd choice for a publication and 2) an odd time for it.  I don't doubt that Trump has an alcoholic personality -- his father was one, was he not? -- but the question is how he handling this?  I mean, the man acts a certain way...

CNN's Scott Jennings Had the Perfect Response to This Silly Talking Point About Trump and Rob Reiner
And, as Scott Jennings points out, this is what people like about him.  Or, at least, they are willing to accept him for what he is.  I mean, I do not like certain things about the man, but for many people -- including even me -- that ability to be different is what they like.  And... he has shut down the border (a key promise).  Blowing away narco-terrorists at a time when we are awash with fenatyl?  Fine with many.  Tariffs?  A promise to rebuild our manufacturing base.  This is what people wanted and they are getting it....like it or not. 

Is it me, or is this Michigan scandal -- or the reaction to it -- a bit much still?  I mean, people had to know what was going on, and the tOSU loss -- and other things -- caused it come out.  Now, the man going crazy is one thing, but... I wonder if the people who called him in figured this might happen.  Why else they wanted him gone is something I would like to know, but... it seems just odd to me.  Hell, a small part of me says that some other school engineered this.  Ohio State?  Pedophile State trying to detract from their own coaching search (which ended up well?)?  I realize no one will start poking around into this,  but...

Surprises

So, I watched "Star Trek: Wrath of Khan" tonight -- 852 on the National Film Registry -- and it was... quite good?  I mean, I am not a Trekkie or a sci-fi fan, but it was compelling?  Interesting?  Lots of star power?  My standards are not high for this, but it was worth the watch (and wait).

Have to admit, the ride to church was a bit off; I put the 4WD on this morning and I needed it until I got on the highway -- those, at least, were immaculate.  Hell, even the roads in the Village were better than in my neck of the woods, and while they get less snow...  certainly the diehards were there this morning, as the crowd was a bit sparse (as expected), a bit sad for Gaudete Sunday.  Another thing:  walking to the gym this morning, it was... cold.  I am glad I went -- good workout, time on the treadmill -- but there was a spring in my step getting in and out of the place.

Scott Johnson: Yes, Omar Married Her Brother – And I Have the Receipts – HotAir
I have wondered about this myself, and I cannot wait for someone to actually investigate this.  I am surprised it has not been done before, but with all of the other scandals going on in MN, maybe it is time we look into it?  There will be complaints of course but now is the time -- if any -- to look into this, and if she committed immigration fraud (if!)... oh well.  I will almost feel badly for her...

Blizzard!

Last night -- after a long week -- I just chilled and went to bed semi-early, because I needed it.  I had an echo-cardiogram (trying to see if this anemia is caused by a heart infection, which I find to be incredibly unlikely) and then work.  Hopefully we can get a project out Monday, though as I told my boss, there is a reason why my Confirmation name was Thomas...  I also watched "Singles," the classic 90s dating movie that I sort of missed along the way -- it's a Cameron Crowe film that is basically a love affair with grunge 90s Seattle (I recognized the bands!).  To be sure, I am not exactly the target audience, but I don't think I ever was in my life, either.  It was...good?  I was talking with someone today about how Capra could not end a film without needing to resort to deus ex machina crap, and it seemed the Crowe managed to end his films with a happy (or happy enough ending).  It has been a while since I have seen "Almost Famous" so I should probably check it out, not like I do not have enough films to watch.

Another reason for hitting the hay early was because I had OC duty today.  One of our parishes has a new co-manager and she is still learning the ropes and asked a bunch to come in and show her what to do.  Fine!  It was fairly cold -- I felt like a Russian doll this AM putting on two pairs of pants (a minor problem when I had to pee!), shirt, long-sleeve, hoodie, sweatshirt, and jacket.  But I was well-protected against the cold.  And it wasn't too bad; count was 126 (lower than average) which I attributed to the weather and the parking lot -- we used about 20 pounds of salt to clear paths for us to walk.  Most people were good (the weather kept the pains in the ass away) and while the lower crowd kept us from getting rid of all the produce, it was close.

Then it was off to a fundraiser in Euclid... it was fine, but the pace was sort of... unhurried, which I thought was odd, given the snowstorm.  I realize most of the people there were from the East Side, but...the ride home was a bit unpleasant.  The 4WD does work -- phew -- and while there were some road stretches it was not needed, mostly it was.  Hell, my driveway got plowed again -- twice in three days!  Anyways, I was glad to be home and able to just catch up on stuff and chill.  

Why Does Trump Disdain Europe? - POLITICO
I get a kick out of stuff like this; I mean, we are Republicans, we are supposed to disdain Europe, and if you cannot find a dozen reasons...

Mattie rests

Yesterday was a long day of work, and with all of the stuff I had to do... I didn't feel like posting.  Now, I am a bit tired - feeling the long day -- so I will be off to bed after this.  Alas.  Today was a hot mess, or a cold mess, weather-wise; I think it snowed all day.  It was not supposed to, but as the weather people explained after the fact, lake effect snow lingers... lovely.  My driveway was plowed, which didn't surprise me, though I was glad it was done.  I got my four-wheel drive fixed yesterday -- motor needed replacement -- and I would prefer NOT to test it out getting out of the driveway (though it might be the best idea).

Republicans have an affordability problem. They can’t agree on how to fix it. - POLITICO
Calling it on "con job" is probably NOT the best way to do this, though I have to admit some of the things they are doing now -- stressing the prices that are lower (especially gas), advocating for another interest rate, cutting tariff -- should help.  Of course, there is the Obamacare issue; I am not sure there is a way to solve it given the party makeup, the narrow majority, etc.  More to the point, I don't think anyone wants to solve it.  Not saying it is easy, but... there must be some way to extend them partially for a limited amount of time while cracking down on fraud and such.  I find it fascinating that no one seems to be able split the baby.  In some ways, this is something POTUS could handle; the man certainly has the ability to corral enough of Congress to get it done.

 ‘I Worry People Are Going to Get Hurt in the Short Term’ - POLITICO
I think the headline could have been "Government employee mad that they are not in office anymore."  I see her point to some extent but on the other hand... people gamble on things all the time -- often with more-than-tacit government support -- and there is no reason why people shouldn't be able to do it with the stock market, either.  I suspect enough people know that crypto on its best day is a hot mess, so...

Early to Rise

Finally finished watching Ken Burns' "American Revolution" series tonight.  I think my original prognosis was... correct?  It was good not great?  Again, I think they hit upon as broad a range of topics as possible -- good and bad -- which is to be commended, though I am not sure that some things should have been stressed over others.  I don't think it is unfair to say that perhaps too much was spent on some things over the main point -- how the entire concept of the revolution was.... revolutionary?  But overall it was worth my time -- I don't think 2 hours is too long, honestly.  But I am a history nerd, so...

Today was the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, so I woke up earlier than usual and attended early Mass (sparsely attended, as it is always is, alas).  I am glad I went of course but am dragging a bit now... on the other hand, it was a mostly good day -- productive at work, handled some stuff for the OC, etc.  I have to admit, I can tell when I do not have enough rest.  My sister would remind me that I am not as young as I used to be, and I hate to admit she is correct.  Of course, this is the only place I will be admitting this...

How the dollar-store industry overcharges cash-strapped customers while promising low prices | US news | The Guardian
I am glad our state is listed as trying to do something about this, but there is NO reason why this should be happening; I can't imagine how annoying it would be to be overcharged and not have anything that could be done (I used to complain about it at Acme, and I am the one who watches what I spend and can figure out what my bill should be ahead of time!).  I doubt our legislature will do anything about this, but...

The Somali Welfare Fraud Scandal Is Even Worse Than You Think
This is a huge deal, and while on the one hand we are good to be stressing it, but... I don't think we are at the cusp of realizing how bad this is.  I don't doubt that the state of MN dropped the ball here -- on purpose -- and given who runs it, they will not do anything about it.  Will the Feds do it?  Should they?  Of course.  It's not an ICE issue at this point; Pam Bondi should be there personally signing indictments until Doomsday.

Notre Dame Takes Stand, Vanderbilt's Clark Lea Takes CFP Accountability | OutKick
Dare I say that Vandy is taking the correct path and Notre Dame is not?  Even given that some of the players off to the NFL weren't going to play...they don't have other guys on the roster to step up?  I will also note that while the ACC should be faulted for not promoting them, Notre Dame is not actually part of the ACC; Miami is.  ND wants the best of both worlds -- membership in a conference without being part of one -- and that means that they will not be in the front of the bus.  I feel badly for them but not that badly (not that I ever feel badly to begin with)...

Padre Pio

One thing I forgot to mention yesterday; it was one of those rare days where I had little to do -- aside from watch glorious Duke victories -- so I got up early, hit the gym, and then off to some errands -- some groceries, a trip to the cemetery to see the parents, and, equally importantly, I went to Mary Queen of Peace parish to venerate the touring relics of Padre Pio.  The church is nice -- not St. Stan's nice, of course -- but plenty of nice features.  Very large -- surprisingly so; I didn't realize how much space there is inside.  Anyways, they had five relics of Padre Pio, including a bit of kerchief with his blood (from the Stigmata).  I tried to get a picture, but it was difficult -- they let you do it, but a steady of stream people (including me) were trying to venerate the relics, so I got a side shot, and that was...fine?  Funny; I took Communion to my friend on the West Side -- she met him!! -- and I was sure to show the pics to her.  I have been praying to him more and have been reading a bio... interesting.  

So, the CFP rankings were released and it seems that, as succinctly as possible, there has been hell to pay.  The big news is that two non-power conferences are in, Miami is in, and that Notre Dame is out... and in consequence, they are not going to a bowl game at all.  This seems a bit...extreme?  I would think they would want to play someone -- anyone -- and put the wood to them, but obviously not.  Similarly, wouldn't the players want to play, get the swag, etc.?  Duke is going to the Sun Bowl, which would be funnier had I not suggested in group chat that they would be going...to the Sun Bowl.

Trump’s Top Advisers Wage Campaign to Shift His Focus to High Prices - WSJ
This seems a good idea, even though in many ways stuff is going down -- eggs are cheaper (not 99 cents a dozen but close enough), gas is $2.65, and some prices are stabilizing.  But people are concerned.  Housing is an issue.  Going after industry concentration is a good thing, and I would like to see people going after companies with high margins and stock buybacks -- not a traditional GOP thing, but this is not the traditional GOP.  To be sure, with POTUS, you could see anything, but I would a populist type is the last man in line to speak to the guy...

The Double Event

Crazy stuff with college football today; first, Ohio State lost to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship game.  I saw three plays in the game, one of which was the missed chip shot field goal.  I mean, I realize that both teams had nothing to gain by winning or losing the game (not really but you get my drift) which might have explained why it was 13-10.

Of course, the real excitement was in the ACC Championship game, where Duke -- those scrappy underdogs -- won in OT against UVA.  Duke had a 10-point lead in the fourth quarter, lost it, scored a TD on a gutsy 4th-and-1 trick play, and won it on an interception.  Now, this is cool but... with their 8-5 record they will probably not make the college football playoff.  On the one hand, this opens it up for two non-power conference teams; on the other, there is concern when the champion of a power conference does NOT make the playoff.  

Mind you, Duke had another big win today, as the hoopsters went to MSU and won on the road.  As expected, it was a tough game -- too many turnovers and missed FTs, a plethora of fouls -- but they managed to pull one out.  Phew!  On the other hand, this is a big win, no matter what or who.

I woke up early to get to the gym and get my errands done, and now... well, I cannot sleep.  This will not bode well for tomorrow, but... not sure why.  But, we carry on.  I am thinking of adding something to the Duke corner of champions to celebrate the football, but considering that reward is something akin to the Sun Bowl... well, I am not sure what.  Similarly, I need to get a Xmas gift list together, and I need to start shopping -- online first, and maybe a scheduled mall trip...

Mattie sleeps

I crashed hard last night and again tonight.  I had an eye doctor this afternoon, had my pupil dilated, and while I am fine, it was a little hard to see for a while.  So I just nodded off after I finished work.  I guess I needed the nap.  In the meantime, I was able to watch some football and see JMU win; now, all that needs to happen is for Duke to win the ACC, and this power conference champion will be out...

Funny, the Big Ten Championship is a battle between #1 and #2, and... no one seems to be paying attention?  If you think about it, the playoffs are the reason why; both teams are in, and all they are playing for is slotting, and thus...who really cares?  I think this is clearly a bad thing -- you would think the Big Ten would be trying to hyping this -- and while yes, both teams are in, on the other hand... these titanic clashes are now...devalued.  I will try to watch -- I have nothing to do this weekend, so I can read and background-watch some college football -- but it is a bit less compelling.

My paper pile -- despite my housecleaning last weekend -- seems to be unchanged, so I guess I can work on that as well.  I also found a pile of family pictures so I should find an album and put them in.  I have to admit, the house looks better and I feel good about it, so I should probably keep it up.

I am not surprised by cleveland.com's embrace of Amy Acton, but... it is a little odd, because even they admitted that on some issues -- such as closing schools -- she was wrong.  Of course, they blithely ignore the consequences of this choice, but you would think someone would call them out on this; I mean, I would have loved it if Bernie Moreno did it when he was there, or if any GOPer deigns to attend their candidate forums.  Even Scott Bessant called out the NYT at one of their forums!

Drill, Baby, Drill

The College Football Team That Can Plunge an Entire Conference Into Turmoil - WSJ
I don't think anyone feels that Duke can win, but when you see stuff like this, you sort of want them to, right?  Throwing a grenade into the Championship?  Who doesn't love that?  Ok, Miami and a dozen other teams, but...

Went to the dentist today to get a couple of cavities filled on one side of the mouth.  I have a small one on the other side, and they were like "we're going to watch and wait."  And I was like "Um, let's get this fixed."  I know I do not have the best teeth, but cavities are not bank accounts.  So after Christmas I will get it handled.  I hope.

Did a nice pile of paperwork for the OC today -- checks, invoices, emails, etc.  Of course, as I like to say, next week there will be another pile, but today, at least, everything is caught up.  December is going to be almost as busy as November (in a usual year and not the hot mess of SNAP-less) and thus we ordered more, etc.  Nice thing about canned goods is that they can remain a while.  The freezers were full from the pickups, again a relic of the weekend.... which not a bad thing, unless our pickups are extensive again.

¡No Pasarán!: Thanksgiving Controversy: What Nobody Tells You About Indians and the Natives of North America
I get a kick out of articles like this; I think we all know that the First Peoples were just as bad -- if not worse -- as the European settlers, and as the article mentioned...they slaughtered their way across the continent first, not that anyone notices now...

Phew

Dare I say that the Duke game was like the TN special election -- too close for comfort?  OK, the TN election was... you take the win, but...  In the other thing... that was quite the game, and while I didn't expect Duke to win by 15... too many turnovers, too many second-chance shots, too many defensive lapses.  On the other hand, they did have many good defensive plays and they forced UF to the max.  I can live with that, sort of.

Other big news.... the Parma Acme closed yesterday.  On the one hand, they didn't always have stuff, it was a little dumpy, the ring ups were often off... on the other hand, they had more stuff than Marc's, much cheaper than Giant Eagle, and the people were mostly nice.  They did have good deals on stuff occasionally, too... just have to go to Montrose for them.  Wonder what will go in the shopping center now; they have an empty Big Lots and now this, but they have added a Five Below and a PF, so...odd.  

Trump Is Remaking the Electorate. Will It Last?
So far it has not, but... there is time.  I mean, Dems are not winning these guys over, and Trump has shown he can.  Affordability IS a thing, and there are things we can do to promote it -- gas, eggs, chicken, etc.  I would like to see someone crack down on interest rates, too.  I realize repealing Obamacare is a pipe dream, but it could be done if we wanted to, though we do not, it appears.

It was an impressive pile of snow today; I didn't hear the snow plow guy so we might not have gotten two inches, though I suspect we did... seemed like people got hammered out east, which made me very happy not to have to drive out there.  I didn't even leave the house, which is probably fine -- missed the gym but no point going out and more clogging the roads.  My arteries can be purged another day...