Trump's Second Coup

Four years ago Donald Trump attempted a coup using violence and it failed. Now that he is once more in power, he appears to be attempting a coup from within. His partner, Elon Musk, who was not elected to any political position, and is one of the richest people in the world, has been given carte blanch access to everything and unlimited power. Musk now has access to YOUR Social Security number, YOUR tax records, basically any and all records the federal government has on you.

How does this impact you? Your SSN, income, investments, sexual identity, voting record, are no longer secure. Jobs are no longer secure. If you have student loans, grants, or work in the educational arena, you may lose your future loans, or even have your existing loans called due, lose grants and/or your job.

Members of the FBI are getting fired without legitimate cause. Thousands of employees across multiple agencies, who have less than one year of service, have received letters of termination. Employees with offers have had them rescind. All of this done by Musk.

Musk and his group of 20-somethings have fired the individuals responsible for handling and maintaining nuclear weapons. (Gee, why would we need them?) They have fired FAA employees, USDA employees working on the bird flu issues, all in the name of rooting out fraud & waste. Yet, no one bats an eye at the needless expense of Trump attending the Super Bowl, or his antics at the NASCAR race where he had the Beast and Air Force 1 doing laps.

Trump says employees who work from home aren't even working. Yet, he has spent 17 days on the golf course since he took office. While he is out play, Musk is tearing our country apart. Trump's insanely unqualified nominees for important positions are destroying the Dept of Education, Dept of Health & Welfare, Veteran's Affairs, and every other place they can get their hands on to.

Trump campaigned on ending inflation and bringing prices down. Inflation is increasing and they are cutting SNAP programs and Medicaid. Could Medicare & Social Security be far behind?

Pay attention people, Trump and Musk are running their own coup right before your very eyes.

Thoughts on Birth Right Citizenship and Trump’s Executive Order

Trump’s executive order, which he signed Monday states people born in the U.S. are not citizens if their “mother was unlawfully present in the United States and the father was not a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident at the time of said person’s birth,” or if the mother was in the U.S. on a “lawful but temporary” basis—like a student, tourist or work visa—and the father isn’t a citizen or “lawful permanent resident.”

It seems to me that the only way to enforce this would be to use DNA testing prior to or immediately following the birth.  Under both examples it is specifically states that the father is not a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident at the time of said person’s birth. So, foreign national in the US (legally or not) gives birth in the US. DNA tests identify the father as a citizen or permanent resident. If the father meets this standard, he should be forced to support said child until the age of 18 in order to maintain citizenship.  This obligation should be enforced by an organization of the federal government because it is the giver of citizenship.  Proven fathers who refuse to accept this obligation should be charged with child neglect and endangerment in Federal court.

If the father is not a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident at the time of said person’s birth, all three are sent back to their country of origin.

I am not saying I agree with this, only that it seems like the only way to legitimately apply the order as it is written.  Honestly, I think this whole thing is BS because no sitting president has the authority to override the Constitution.

Does anyone really believe this is going to make a significant change?  Sure, it should stop birth tourism which is really a small percentage of births. Otherwise noncitizen women will just become more selective about who they choose to have unprotected sex with.  

We all know that we have a national problem with unplanned and unwanted pregnancies and absentee fathers. With abortion all but illegal now in most states, this problem will explode.   Young people are often careless or uneducated about birth control.  Most of us know someone who now has a child or grandchild because proper precautions were not taken. Or someone who doesn’t have child or grandchild because abortion was an option.

Now, pretend that you are a female foreign national legally visiting the US. For whatever reason you are afraid to return to your native country.  What is your easiest option?  Find a willing partner, ditch the birth control, have sex until the desired outcome is achieved, pregnancy.  

Now, pretend you are the young male in the situation.  You don’t want a baby, not now, maybe in a few years but not now.  Abortion is no longer an option, so you are going to have a baby.  Because your baby momma is a foreign national, it won’t be so easy to walk away and say “sorry, not my problem” as it was when Mary Lou down the block got knocked up.

Educate your child and grandchildren about birth control and safe sex practices.

I’m afraid for our country.

NOTE: This was originally written and posted a few days before the election when I was more hopeful about the outcome.  While the Electoral College results were not surprising, the results of the popular vote were a big surprise to me.  Never in my craziest dreams did I expect that more than 50% of Americans would support the racism, sexism, and bigotry championed by the Republican Party.  Christian Nationalism is not Christianity it a CULT.

I am not the kind of “Christian“ that supports a liar, adulterer, sexual predator, cheat, traitor, crook, felon, in bad orange makeup.

“Deal with it?”  You mean like that POS did when he lost? Or the people who have spent the last 4 years running around with banners, shirts and flags with vulgar sayings about Biden and Harris? I’m not that kind of “Christian” either.

Or should I deal with it like the traitors that overran the Capitol to prevent the peaceful transfer of power? I’m not that kind of “Christian” either.

I vowed not to support violence regardless of who won. I am THAT kind of “Christian”.  I will continue to support what is morally right.  I will continue to support those who are marginalized by others.  We are not ok, now.  However, we won’t stop until we have brought our country back to and above OK.

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I am an American and I want what is best for our country.  If you are reading this, I hope that, as an American, you also what is best for our country.  The problem is that what you believe is best for our country and what I believe is best for our country could very well be two completely different things.  That is why I am afraid for our country.

There isn’t any point in going over the difference between my view and yours. We know the arguments on both sides, we have heard them and we have spoken them. There have been lies and there has been truth.  There has been violence, hate, and bigotry.  There has been peace, love, and acceptance.  Unfortunately, we all believe we are on the “right” side of the divide.

Throughout our country’s history there have been many times when political parties have disagreed.  The largest divide this country has experienced was the Civil War where brother fought brother to eliminate slavery.  Several states were so ingrained in their beliefs that slavery was right those states withdrew from the Union resulting the death of thousands.  Recovery from this war took many years, and even more years to build up to the Civil Rights era.

The Civil Rights era brought us Selma, the Freedom Riders, the murder of Emmett Till and the assignation of Martin Luther King. Not to mention all the others who were injured and killed.  Terrible things were said and done.  Yet, somehow, we grew through the pain and anger.

During the 1960’s the LGBTQ groups lobbied for recognition and equal rights.  Harvey Milk ran for public office, there were riots at the Stonewall Inn and other places.  The first Pride events began in the ’70’s.  Only 10 years ago same gender marriage became the law of ALL the land, instead of a few states. 

Despite these divisions our country has managed to heal.  Not everyone was, or is, OK with the changes that have taken place in nearly 250 years. Nevertheless, we have managed to get along.  We have managed to treat each other with respect and dignity, until recently.

Today these United States are more divided than they have been since the 1860’s. Soon the course of our country for the next 4 years will be decided by the outcome of the election. Which side will come out on top?  The margin is too close to call.  It may be your side, or it might be my side.  Regardless of the outcome, people are going to be unhappy.  

Many of you, like me, are afraid for our country because of what might happen after the election.  If one side wins, the rights of several minorities could be impacted.  If the other side wins, the losing side is likely to have a repeat of the January 6 attack on the Capitol.  Our country may never recover from the violence  that could happen.  

I believe that no matter how far apart our views might be, you also want what is best for our country. The only way we are going to get through this period ahead of us, is if we work together, no matter which side wins.  I pray daily for an outcome favorable to my beliefs.  Because I know that things don’t always go my way, I also pray that whatever happens, we can keep the good parts of our country and not allow political violence to destroy us.  

I am an American, I love our country, and I want what is best for our country.  My vow is that I will not support violence by either side. Will you do the same? 

Riding in Ireland and Ancestral History - A Bucket List Trip

 I’ve always wanted to visit Ireland due to my ancestral connections.  The more I learned about my family history, the more I wanted to walk the path my ancestors had walked, see the things they had seen, experience the beauty of the Emerald Isle as they had done. So when the opportunity arose to do all those things and also incorporate one of my favorite activities, motorcycling, I jumped at the chance.

Lisa, of Dive N Ride Adventures, was planning an all women motorcycle tour of the Ireland coast, the Wild Atlantic Way. I think my spouse, Debbie, and I were the first to join this adventure.  We met with Lisa to talk about our hopes and expectations for the trip, length of stay and a dozen other details for a trip like this one.  Lisa made a point of asking if there was anything in particular that we were interested in seeing.  I don’t think she expected the answer to be the Crudden Orphanage.

In typical Lisa form, she didn’t bat an eye, simply asked more questions about the orphanage and its significance to me.  I shared with Lisa that while I knew my ancestors came from Counties Donegal and Fermanagh, the only real place I could associate them with was the Crudden Orphanage which I thought would be in the same area, but didn’t really know.  We had a brief discussion about if or how this place might be included in our tour.  Basically the plan was that if the orphanage could be located and I would separate from the group so I could visit the site.

Weeks went by and we had periodic Zoom calls with Lisa and other women who would be joining us on the tour.  Getting to know each other a bit and learning more about what the tour would be like, continually ramping up the excitement.  During one of these meetings, Lisa mentioned that Paul from Celtic Rider who was supplying our bikes for the trip had located the site of the orphanage in Bundoran, not far off the tour route.  It would be a short detour for us to leave the group and then rejoin them a little later!

Finally, the day came when we were actually in Ireland and at Celtic Rider picking up 9 Can Am motorcycles for our group.  I cannot say enough good things about Paul and his team.  Their hospitality felt more like welcoming friends than clients, serving us hot tea and coffee along with fresh scones while we watch the orientation video.  Once everyone was packed up, geared up, and ready to go, Paul and Lisa led our gaggle of Spyders on the first leg of our journey.

The scenery was breathtaking, green and lush, and we paid the traditional “green tax” of some light rain.  I was totally enamored with the sheep along the way, so cute and oblivious of us.  One day we ended up behind a herd of sheep along with their shepherd and dogs.  It was so fun to watch the dogs work the sheep and go after the stray here & there.  Each night after the ride, we would have dinner together, talk about what we had seen and done that day.  It didn’t take long before we became friends with a connection that will last for many years.  

We walked the grounds of Kilkenny Castle and wandered the gardens of Lismore. We stood at the stones in Drombeg and people watched in Dingle. We had a snack lunch on the beach, fresh open-face crab sandwiches near Baltimore Beacon, and hot chocolate at Slieve League cliffs.  We marveled at the Cliffs of Moher, Connor Pass, and the gardens of Lismore.  We learned the joy of an Irish breakfast with tea. We shivered while people swam at Fenmore Beach and strolled about Kylemore Abbey. Each day we rode, ate, laughed, shared our joys and and a few tears along the way.

I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised when the morning we were planning our little detour to see the orphanage, the entire group decided to join us.  Lisa led us through Bundoran past a small church to a group of old building surrounded by fencing stood. While we couldn’t identify which building was the original boys orphanage, we were able to walk the perimeter of the grounds and see the monument to the Casket Girls.  We walked through the cemetery looking for some familiar names but found none.  However I did find an alternative spelling, Crudean, on the plaque outside the workhouse.  It was a touching experience, to know that in 

another lifetime, people related to me built, worked at and may have lived here. The sadness and suffering of all those souls passing through the doorway will always remain in my heart.

This was near the end of our tour.  We only had another day or two on the road, where we continued to enjoy all that Ireland had to offer.  It was the trip of a lifetime for me for so many reasons.  Many thanks to Lisa (Dive and Ride) and Paul (Celtic Rider) for going above and beyond to locate the Crudden orphanage.  You made this trip extra special for me by putting in the effort to find an out of the way place for me.  Thanks to all the ladies who joined me on my little journey in history.  Most of all, to my wife, Debbie, for making it all happen for me.

A Racist, Hypocritical, Liar Does Not Belong in the White House

Honestly, I didn't think Trump could cheapen himself any more than he has already done.  Yet, here he is, sinking lower and lower.  Trump is a disgrace to this country and to the office of President.  He doesn't belong in the White House and should do the honorable thing for once in his life and resign.

A short time ago, Trump, ordered police to shoot tear gas and rubber bullets into the crowd of peaceful protesters in the park across from the capital.  Why?  So he could strut across the park to stand in front of a church he has only attended a handful of time holding a Bible which he has probably never opened.  How dare you!  You stand there holding a holy book in front of a church which you did not have permission to access, much less to use as a political prop. Did he honestly think anyone would look at his past actions and believe he attends church and reads the Bible?

At a time when people in this country are dying because you LIED about COVID-19, people are protesting over the murder of people of color and dying in the process.  What are you doing?  Whining because Twitter .put a fact check on one of your lies about voting by mail.  Get a freaking grip!  Over 105K people have DIED, the country is in a turmoil over the murder of innocent people of color and you're concerned about Twitter. 

At a time when a real leader would be working to pull this country together, offer compassion and sympathy to the families of those who have who have died, acting as peacemaker between the citizens of this country.  Trump continues to make things worse by shooting his mouth off condemning the protesters.  He incites violence, encourages police to "rough up" people he doesn't like, condones the white nationalists in Charlotte and individuals who were in a state capital building with assault weapons, oh wait, those guys were WHITE!  That's why it was ok.  Now I get it.  The KKK has endorsed Trump and he hasn't even rejected that endorsement.  That speaks volumes, don't you think?

Trump spreads unfounded rumors about his political opponents and when questioned about it, can't even give a reason other then "you know what he did".  He cheated and lied to get elected, wants to have his political opponents jailed even though no evidence of wrong doing has been found.  Every word that comes out of his mouth is a lie, he wouldn't know the truth if it bit him in his considerable ass.

Now, Trump is trying to turn this country into a dictatorship.  He is a bully, a liar and a racist. It is obvious that he has never read the constitution, because judging by his speeches, he wouldn't understand it if hedid.  So let me put it in plan language.  The people have the right to protest, the country is not here to serve you, Trump, you are supposed to serve this country. 

Trump, you have failed as a leader, another thing to add to your long list of failures.  If you aren't  mentally impaired, then you are flat out stupid.  For once in your useless life, do the right thing and resign the presidency before you do more damage to this country and her people. 

God knows our country can't stand much more of you. Do the right thing.

Traveling to Moncton....Part 3

We say goodbye to Bangor, ME and Stephen King heading toward the Canadian/US border and Moncton.  A brief gas stop and we are on our way, well, not exactly.  The engine and battery lights on my bike came on shortly after leaving the station.  A stop on the side of the road, remove the seat and we discover the EMC module has popped out of place.  Given some of the roads we have travelled the last couple of days it isn't surprising that something had been jiggled loose.  We tighten all the nuts and bolts, return the EMC to its proper seating  position, put everything back together and we are rolling.

Almost.  A  few miles down the road the lights on my bike come on again.  Stopping at a gas station we begin removing the seat and calling our friend, Pigpen, who can give us some suggestions on what to check.  Rechecking all the nuts and bolts, re-seating the EMC we decide to head to the nearest dealership to get things checked out.  However halfway to the dealer the problem has not reoccurred so we decide we must have tightened everything sufficiently and agree to bypass the dealership.

Calais is where we plan to cross the border into Canada.  It is a small town on the St. Croix river with an old city flare and some beautiful old buildings and homes.  It is also home to the newest border crossing.  Neither Debbie nor I have crossed the border since passports have been required so this is a first for both of us.  Fortunately, it is early in the day, it isn't very hot as we slowly inch our way toward the booths where border agents question each person prior to admitting them to Canada.  At least the scenery is nice while you are waiting on the bridge across the St. Croix.

Finally it is our turn.  Debbie pulls up to the first available agent and a few minutes later I move forward as well.  The agent takes my card, asks me a few routine questions like where am I headed, how long do I intend to stay, etc.  I notice that Debbie has already cleared the border and is slowly headed around the corner out of view.  Meanwhile, I am still answering questions and beginning to get concerned.  Eventually the agent returns my ID along with a yellow form.  She instructs me to park in a designated area and to go inside the building.  Now I am really sweating, thinking that some extremely poor judgement 25 years ago is going to keep me out of Canada and prevent me from attending the convention.

I park my bike as instructed and head into the building.  I don't even take my helmet off hoping that will help me get in and out quicker.  I'm also concerned because Debbie is probably around the corner wondering why I haven't come through.  Inside the building another agent asks me pretty much the same questions as the first.  I mention my concern to the agent who explains that there is an area for people to wait.  That helps but what if they don't let me in?  I'm getting antsy when the agent takes the yellow form and tells me to enjoy my stay.  With a heavy sigh of relief I am out the door and on the bike and ride into Canada where Debbie is waiting for me.

We have crossed 20 states, been on the road 9 days and finally we are in Canada.  Once we are out of the little town on the Canadian side we are on New Brunswick Route 1 headed towards Moncton. It doesn't take long for me to identify the differences between Interstates highways in the US and those on the Canadian side.  While the scenery is as beautiful as many areas of the US some of the standard roadside staples are missing in Canada.  There are no billboards except for a very few near the cities and they are overall smaller than those in the states.  At the exits where in the US one would normally see a collection fast food restaurants, in Canada these are missing as well.  Just a couple of the difference I notice during our time there.

Finally we are in Moncton.  Our hotel, the Delta Beausejour, is located in the heart of Moncton near  the river, parks, restaurants within easy walking distance.  As we pull up to the entrance we are thrilled to see familiar faces of other Motor Maids and friends.  The area outside the entrance that is reserved for unloading while checking in and out is crowded with motorcycles, Motor Maids, their roadies and hotel staff. As I let out a breath I inhaled the feeling of having come home, almost 8,000 miles from my home, there I was, surrounded by my Motor Maid sisters and family so, yes, it was like coming home.  For the next few days we will have a reunion of sorts as we laugh, talk and most importantly ride together.

Traveling to Moncton.....Part 2

Leaving Danville, IL to head east.  Riding through Indiana it was a little chilly and the roads definitely leave something to be desired.  We will beat feet to make up for a wasted day yesterday.  One night spend in Macedonia, OH.  Up and off early again the next day.  Nothing terribly interesting happening on the road.

We rode the NY turnpike end to end, at one of the rest areas we stopped at there was a European lady who was so excited to see us.  Who knows why?  She had to have her picture taken with us and the bikes.  We smiled and posed for pictures with her despite our urgent need to tend to bodily functions.  Watertown was our stopping point for the night.

Traveling through the Adirondacks was beautiful.  So green and lush, especially to us desert folks.  We stopped to take a few pictures and enjoy the scenery.  That is where we found this little park with a small river running nearby.

The roads through the Adirondacks were pretty good as far as the quality.  The view from some of the mountains as we crested them was breath taking.  Sadly, I forgot my camera at home so there are no pictures on the road, only those taken while stopped.  The air was so fresh, you can smell the pine in the air.  We saw some original Adirondack chairs and other furniture.  In general, it was just a really great ride.

Our goal for the day is Warren, VT, home of our friends Audrey and Jack Mosley.  Getting to Warren was a bit of a challenge due to the conditions of the roads.  There were a number of potholes and frost heaves throughout the winding road that lead us to Warren.  Upon our arrival we were greeted with a closed road that we needed to travel.  It seems that Warren is one of the top 10 places to be on the 4th of July, as a result the town was swarming with tourist and the parade had recently ended.  A kind police officer has pity on us and told us how we could get around the block party going on so we could continue to our friends' house.

Jack & Audrey live in this darling old home with the Mad River running through their backyard.  The house has some lovely little quirks, like some very steep stairs, old fashion fixtures and uniquely shaped rooms.  Jack & Audrey have added to their and it is a sunny yellow, representative of Audrey's personality.  There is a quaint covered bridge practically right next door and the view from the back deck is beautiful and peaceful.

In Warren, our friend Audrey is affectionately known as "the bird lady" because she rescues injured birds, nurses them back to health then releases them back into the wild.  While we were there she was preparing to release a little robin she had been caring for.  It was a lovely place to have a slight break in the trip since we stopped early and left late the next day.

The following morning we bid farewell to Jack & Audrey, who thankfully gave us a better route out of Warren then the way we came in.  We were on our way to Bangor, ME.

Unfortunately while in Bangor we didn't see any fog, clowns, people with strings attached to their heads, old diners with portals to another time or Stephen King.

Next time.....join us while we cross the border and head to Moncton.

Traveling to Moncton

Each time we leave for the Motor Maid convention I swear I am going to do better about blogging during the trip and each year I fail.  So once again, here I am writing about it after the fact.

We left home the morning of June 27 taking US 60 through Globe, Show Low and Pietown.  It was definitely cooler.  However north of Show Low the rain started, not heavy but steady.  By the time we reached Pietown with the combination of rain, altitude and wind it had gotten a bit chilly.  When we stopped to put on more layers there was hail on the ground, so we were lucky to have missed that part of the storm.

Our first couple of days on the road were a bit frustrating for a couple of reasons.  The week before we left I had picked up my bike from the dealer where it had an oil change and work done on the CB which has been giving me problems from the time it was installed.  A couple of days before we left we checked the radio to confirm it was working properly.  It wasn't.  I could hear Debbie talking to me but she couldn't hear me.  Of course there was no time to go back to the dealer, who when I picked up the bike and my helmet which they had requested for testing purposes, assured me that the radio was working fine.

When we were testing the radio I noticed large scratched area on the back of the helmet that weren't there before.  If the radio is fine, then the problem must be in the helmet, right?  And since it had been damaged that didn't seem to far a stretch.  In the meantime we decided that since I could hear Debbie and she could hear my mic when keyed that we would use that as a form of communication. Debbie would ask me questions and I would key the mic, twice for yes, once for no.

Our first night was spent in Mountainair, NM, We stayed as a little motel called the Rock Motel. The motel was comfortable and the owners were very friendly and accommodating. I did think the rates were a tad high.  Dinner was at Jerry's Ancient Cities Cafe where they have some rocking green chili. The clouds were starting to build up for a major rain storm, so we covered up the bikes and called it a night.

While I was getting ready for bed that night I confused some new medication and instead of taking my evening meds I took my daytime meds - triple the dose!!  Of course, I didn't realize it until the next night.  As a result of the mix up, I got next to no sleep that night and was dragging the following day. Thankfully, that was the only side effect.

We made it to Minneola, KS where we stayed at the Super 54 Inn.   It is a tiny little motel that could be better.  We were hot and tired so I asked the person who checked us in to put us in the room with the best AC. Unfortunately, if our room had the best AC I hate to think what the worst one was like. I get it though, these places mainly have traffic during the winter season.  Outside of the AC the room was comfortable, clean and tiny, so no major complaints with that.  Dinner was across the street at a little place where I had the best quesadilla I have ever had.  It wasn't traditional style but it was very tasty.

Up and out early in the morning. headed to Omaha, NE where we will have dinner with Debbie's boss and a co-worker.  Along the way we stopped in Kinsley, KS, which happens to be the halfway between San Francisco and New York City as well as home to a boat load of gnats.

Arrived in Omaha earlier than expected which gave us time to get cleaned up before dinner.  Had a nice dinner and then an early night.

Finally, having had enough of being unable to  communicate, we decide to detour a little bit to Litchfield, IL where the nearest authorized J&M installer is located.  Char at Niehaus Cycles was a huge help.  I spoke with her on the phone several times to troubleshoot what may be wrong with my headset.  When I was unsuccessful with the various suggestions Char offered, we spent the night in Litchfield, so we could be at Niehaus when they opened in the morning.

One new helmet and headset later and I am still unheard. We backtracked to Springfield to visit Hall's Harley Davidson where they locate the crimped wire that is causing the problem and we are off again.  The day was pretty much a waste between running around for the helmet, Debbie's battery, then the back to Springfield so we didn't get many miles.  We'll start again in the morning.

To be continued.

Some Days

Like today, I can't even pretend to be normal. Nothing seems right, nothing appeals to me, I don't want to go anywhere or see anyone.  I have problems finding joy in things I once did.

Most days, I work like a fiend, keeping my mind occupied with reports, problems, interviews, meetings, all so I don't have to think. Or I guess I should say think about someone who really matters, the one who is missing from my life.

A few days ago, my grandsons were here for the night.  I look at their adorable little faces and I see their mother's face smiling back at me.  Their laughter so much like Amanda's at their age.  I wonder what their lives will be like without their mother.

Things feel so different now. No, things ARE different now.

I believe that eventually all our lives will be more "normal".  I won't have to pretend to be normal.

Maybe I will be able to write something that isn't so sad and depressing.

Why My World Will Never Be The Same

My blog has been calling to me for quite some time now.  I've ignored the call because, really, how does one talk about the everyday things when your life has been so dramatically changed?  How do you write about the fact that your life will never be the same again? That the pain you feel cripples you when you don't want bring everyone else into your anguish?  Or sound like you are looking for pity?

I still don't know the answer to those questions but I know that I need to write.  So, it begins.

On October 25, 2014, my daughter, Amanda, was shot in the head and died as a result of that injury.  It was 4 days before her 30th birthday.  She has left behind two adorable sons, ages 2 and 7, a husband who was her best friend and loved her beyond all reason, an aunt who was as much a mother to her as I have been, a stepmother who loved her and a mother, me.  It was the day my world changed forever.

Throughout her life Amanda had experienced periods of instability and about 5 years ago was diagnosed as bipolar.  She tried medication for a while but, like so many others, did not like the way it made her feel.  She loved her sons greatly and called her husband the love of her life and best friend.  Amanda tried so hard to be a good wife and mother.  

It was because of her disease that Amanda often trusted the untrustworthy and was in the wrong place at the wrong time.  While in the home of Rose Perry, someone she knew, sitting on the couch, she was intentionally shot in the head by Mark Anthony Barquera.  The shooting was unprovoked.  There are many things I can't say because of the criminal case pending.  Barquera is currently under indictment for Second Degree Murder-Intentional and Felony Drug Possession/Use in jail while awaiting trial.  This is all a matter of public record.

What is not specifically in the public record is that all the people present at the home of Rose Perry at the time this occurred, knew Amanda's name and some, at least, knew how to reach her husband.  Yet no one gave this information to the police.  As a result, it was at least 8 hours from the time Amanda was shot until her husband, stepmother and I could be by her side.

I pray that no one who reads this ever has to call the police and say "someone said my child was involved in a shooting" then has to go back and forth with the police regarding identifying marks and tattoos.  I pray you never have to have a detective show you a picture of a tattoo and have to identify it as belonging to your child.  I pray you never have to come around a corner in ICU and see your child, your baby, in a bed on a respirator, tubes and IVs everywhere and a large bandage around her head that continues to ooze her blood forming a surreal red halo.  I pray you never have to make the decision to discontinue life support.

There are no words to describe what my life has been like these last few months.  The sorrow, pain, horror, not to mention the shame and guilt, wondering what I could have done to have helped prevent this tragic outcome.  The punch in the gut that suddenly turns you into a hysterical uncontrollable mess.  Wondering why he just shot her, why?

My spouse, son-in-law and I have attended each hearing.  I remember seeing him at the first hearing. The District Attorney knew we were there so she had Barquera brought up out of order so we wouldn't have to wait so long.  He is a scrawny guy with a hawkish nose, horn rim glasses and a cocky attitude.  The way he walked across the room, looking around to see who was there that caused him to be brought up ahead of schedule.  It made me want to vomit.

There isn't a day that goes by when I don't think of Amanda.  I see her in the eyes of her sons, I see her in the mirror. I ache for her husband and her sons, I ache for Amanda who will never have the opportunity to see her sons grow up, never see them graduated from college, marry or have children of their own.

This journey we are on is far from over,  I'm sure I will be posting more about this as the Criminal Justice system works it's way through the process.  One thing I have learned from all of this is that I am truly loved by so many people.  I guess I knew this before but the outpouring of love and support from friends, family and strangers has truly warmed my heart.  

How Not To Get Killed In Traffic

They don't teach Driver's Education in most schools any more and I tend to think that is why we so many hazardous actions on the road these days.  Or maybe it is just common sense and courtesy that seem to be lacking.  So, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some of the things I've learned through educational opportunities and real life experience.

Bicyclists:

In most states a cyclist is required to follow the same laws as motor vehicles.  You ride on the right side of the road, if the traffic light is red, you stop.  If there is a Stop sign, you stop.  Crosswalks are for pedestrians.  If you wish to use the crosswalk, WALK your bike across, if you are riding you aren't a pedestrian.  Use a headlight and don't dress in all dark colors.

Most importantly, it doesn't matter how "right" you think you are, you are still a person on a bike, if you tangle with a car, truck, bus or whatever, you are going to lose.  Is it really worth it?

Pedestrians:

Crosswalks are there for a reason.  Use them.  Cross with the light, not against it.  Trying to run across a 5 lane street, at night, in dark colors is a recipe for disaster.  If you don't care about your own life, think of the kids you're dragging across the street with you.

Motorists:

When two vehicles come to a 4-way stop at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of-way.  However, you don't want to be dead right.  Once you have mastered the 4-way Stop, think about this:  What do you do if you approach an intersection where the traffic lights are out?  You treat it like a 4-way Stop!  Everyone gets a turn, just like you teach your kids, wait your turn and take your turn.  Nice and polite.

Speaking of polite, do you know why they start putting lane closed signs so far back from where the lane is actually closed?  That's right, so you have plenty of time to safely and politely change lanes well in advance of the closure.  It doesn't mean rush right up the side to the blockade and force your way in.  This is in direct contrast to how you handle a Gore Zone, where you want to go all the way to the end before changing lanes.  In some states, like Arizona, crossing a gore zone will get you a hefty citation.

Lane sharing, except by two bicycles or motorcycles, is prohibited for all other vehicles.  Just because that bike is only using one third of the lane is not an invitation for you to join them.  Stay in your lane, be respectful of the your following distance.

Motorcyclists:

You didn't think I was going to leave you out, did you?  I don't care how rad your skills are wheelies, stoppies, trick riding and high speeds belong on the track or other designated course, not on the highway.  Be courteous, don't be cutting in and out of traffic, use your turn signals and if you don't have self cancelling ones, don't forget to turn them off.

I guess that is about it for now.  Remember good manners and common sense will help keep you out of trouble on the road regardless of your role.

Wow! What a week!

The Motor Maid convention in Kerrville was awesome.  Since we left the on Friday morning we have been to Gruene TX, Ft Stockton, again, Carlsbad Caverns, Roswell, NM and the UFO museum.  Stopped to avoid a storm in Hondo, NM where we took shelter in the workshop of William Gordon.  Now we are in Capitan, NM at the Smokey Bear Motel.

Having too much fun to blog so look for a series when I return.  Meanwhile I will be riding!

Traveling to Kerrville, TX

We left Casa Grande on the 4th of July headed to Kerrville.  I think we saw at least 6 highway patrol along the way.  Our little party of 5 kept tooling along with no unexpected stops by the law.  However we did add a new item to our check list after one person left her cell phone in a restaurant bathroom and another though she left hers behind.

Overall, we had good weather although we had some rain it wasn't awful and we did see several lovely rainbows.  We stayed in Las Cruces, NM.  Unfortunately all the restaurants within walking distance were closed for the holiday, particularly the one Clara had planned for dinner.  After some discussion we decided to call a cab and go to a place named Farley's which was recommended by the desk clerk.  The food was good and the atmosphere was interesting, I particularly liked the chrome bumpers on the bar.  The green chili stew was quite taste.  

While we waited for our ride back to the hotel we watched fireworks in the distance. By the time we returned to the hotel we were all ready for bed.

Saturday morning found us headed to Barnett's Harley Davidson where we found a few good deals on t-shirts but none of the take off parts we had hoped to find.  This shop had by far, the largest selection of bikes I have seen.  If you couldn't find the Harley you are looking for here, it probably can't be found.  Having had our fill of HD eye candy, we bid farewell to Barnett's and continued our journey to Fort Stockton.  No major events for the remainder of the day.

We checked into our hotel for the night and made plans to meet another pair of travelers for dinner at the restaurant across the street called K-Bob's.  Despite the great company, we also ran into another couple from California, the food was mediocre and the service even worse.  It took over an hour for our food to come out even though the place wasn't that busy.  Orders were wrong and incorrectly cooked.  We asked to see the manager three times before she finally visited our table, apologized for our bad experience  and adjusted our bills.  Needless to say I would not recommend that place to anyone.

Before headed to bed, we visited a while in the parking lot and made plans to meet in the morning to continue our journey to Kerrville.

Sunday morning was perfect riding weather.  Our group of 5 had become 7 and we knew that another of AZ gals was only a few miles behind us.  So while we waiting for her to catch up we took pictures at the giant road runner.  And then there were 8.

When Theresa arrived she also brought the trip theme song, Girls Just Want To Have Fun.  I imagine 6 women in motorcycle gear complete with helmets, dancing around and singing was quite the sight to behold!   At a brief stop at a picnic area, we had so much fun the first time, we did it again.  If the truckers there weren't laughing they must have been sleeping.  What fun!

Finally we got to our exit, 505 off I-10.  Trust me, you really want to avoid the gas station right off this exit.  Whoever planned this Exxon station didn't have a clue.  Between the cars wanting gas, the ones trying to get to the store, the cars trying to get up the road  and the condition of the really tiny parking lot this place are a set up for a real mess.  However we all made it through the obstacle course unscathed.

When we arrived at the Inn On The Hill, the place was teeming with Motor Maids and their guests.  More will arrive tomorrow when the official festivities will begin.

Traveling to Kerrville - Day 1

Hopefully the third time is the charm since I have written this twice already, hit save and have yet to find them.

We had a short trip yesterday which consisted of completing our packing and meeting the Pens in Casa Grande so we could all start in same place today.  Our trip was mostly uneventful with the exception of a minor traffic jam caused by a burning semi trailer.

Got to the hotel well before the dust storm which was followed by a thunderstorm.

Been tracking our Motor Maids as they all make their way to converge on Kerrville.  Have fun y'all we will see you there.

Oh and did I say it was freaking hot?

Feelings .....ooooo...oooo....Feelings....SUCK

We all have times in our lives when things don't go as we had hoped, in fact, they go so far in the opposite direction that we can't even see the hope that was once there.  Times when you just don't understand why people do the things they do. Times when you wonder if it is really you that is going crazy. Times when no matter what you do, it's wrong.

When someone else allows free will to run amok and it causes havoc in my life I have so many mixed feelings in my head and heart.  Sadness for the one running amok as well as all those who are impacted by the insanity. Frustration and helplessness at my inability to understand or help.  Frustration because I've tried to help in so many ways only to have a back turned to me.  I have to remember that I can't help someone who doesn't want to be helped.

And I worry.  I worry about everyone in the blast radius.  Anger at what is going on and my inability to prevent it.  Fear of what will happen to the ones I love.  Resentment. Helplessness. Love.   My heart aches and I feel like I have been punched in the gut.

In my head and in my heart, I know there is nothing I can do to prevent the self destructive behavior. So I turn to the things that have kept me sane and safe in the past, God, prayer, my loving spouse, my church family and some passages of the Big Book. I believe that nothing happens in God's world by mistake but I don't have to like it.  I pray and pray that salvation comes before it is too late.

Acceptance is the answer to all my problems today....

Why I Drove 600 Miles This Weekend.

If you have never heard of the Great American Youth Circus you have no idea what you have been missing.  If you live anywhere within driving distance of Redlands, CA, you really need to check this out.  This event takes place each May, is sponsored by the Redlands YMCA and is comprised primarily of children,some as young as 3 years old, and young adults.

The Redlands YMCA trains these young people in acrobatics, clowning, juggling, aerial performance, unicycling and many other things.  Think Cirque du Soleil with kids.  Check out this video from last year's performance.

These kids are amazing, as are their instructors, volunteers, families and supporters.  They work hard to prepare a show that lasts about 3 hours including the intermission, even then they are still working the crowd.  Doing three shows each weekend for 2-3 weekends is a huge commitment, not to mention the practices throughout the year to prepare for this show. Many of these young people do this year after year, even when they "graduate" from the program, many come back as adult volunteers helping with the younger performers.

While it may sound like fun and a way to keep children busy, you have to think of the life skills they learn in the process.  They learn discipline, team work, commitment, work ethics and self confidence.  This circus not only gives them a creative outlet, it gives them a sound foundation for life.

Hats off to the Redlands YMCA which has been sponsoring this huge endeavor for nearly 75 years.  Congratulations to the coaches, instructors, parents who have worked with these young people to make this circus possible.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to all the performers in this year's CircuSea Treasure.  Well done, see you again next year.

Why the United Church of Christ?

This past weekend I had the honor and pleasure of attending the annual meeting of the Southwest Conference of the United Church of Christ.  It was a mixture of laughter and tears, education, reacquainting with old friends and making new ones.  Most of all, it was a time of witnessing how the Holy Spirit is moving throughout our denomination in support of social justice.

I am humbled by the lengths our clergy and lay people go to in support of immigration reform, the poor and the LGBT community.  Promoting Marriage Equality in Arizona is one of our conference's goals for 2014 and a goal they will continue to pursue until it has been accomplished.

On Saturday, I listened to the pastors and members of Church of the Good Shepard UCC in Albuquerque, NM share their experiences in support of marriage equality in New Mexico.I've included the link to that panel discussion and encourage you to take time to view it.  Keynote Address on Marriage Equality.

One think that was stressed throughout the weekend, is that you cannot underestimate the power of our straight allies.  In fact, we can't win this battle without our straight allies, including and especially those clergy who stand with us, not because they have to, not because they need to, because they believe it is the right thing to do and God has moved them to stand with us.

Maybe like many of our LGBT brothers and sisters, you have been hurt by organized religion, have sworn against the conservative religious right, sworn never to have anything to do with church ever again.  If so, I'm an deeply sorry for your pain and I understand.  However, if you should encounter members of the UCC at Pride or other LGBT venues, remember, these are your friends, no matter who you are, no matter where you are on life's journey.  Should you ever find yourself in a position where you need a religious friend or other support, look for the Comma, rainbow or red, and know that you are welcome here.

God is still speaking, to everyone, not just the chosen few.

A Few Words of Advice to Scooter Riders

Earlier this week a man on a scooter was killed hit by a young driver turning into a fast food place.  There were a number of contributing factors surrounding this incident including the reported fact that the young driver was unlicensed and that the vehicle he was driving may have been stolen.  While those are definitely issues that need to be addressed during the police investigation, that's not what I would like to address.

My focus today is on scooters, those small 49cc things you see all kinds of people riding around on these days.  Scooters, like motorcycles, are a great way of getting where you need to go as well as being fuel efficient.  Unfortunately, many people do not realize that these scooters are just as hazardous as motorcycles, if not more so.  What's that, you're thinking?  How can they be that dangerous?  They only go 25-35 mph!

Many, not all, motorcyclist go through some sort of training and pass a test at the DVM before getting out on the streets.  This is not the case with the majority of scooter riders.  Next time you pass one on the street take a moment to look at the rider.  They are men and women of all ages, often dressed in work or school clothes, sometimes shorts & flip flops.  Rarely will you see a scooter rider wearing a helmet, much less a protective jacket or gloves.  While it is true that you will also see motorcyclists wearing the same things, motorcycle riders know and understand the risks that they take.  They understand that going down at 25 mph can be just as devastating as going down at 55 mph, as a result, most dress for the fall not the ride.

Judging by the way the majority of scooter riders dress and ride, it appears that they do not consider buzzing down the street at 35 mph dangerous.  When  my daughter rode a scooter, we made sure she always wore a helmet, jacket and gloves.  We also spent a great deal of time teaching her how to ride safely, be aware of her surroundings and avoid hazards in traffic.  We rode with her, giving her feedback and pointers on her riding.  We did this because we love her and we wanted her to be as safe as possible.

As a motorcyclist, I can't tell you how many times I have heard, after an accident, "the driver said he never saw him [motorcyclist]".  Now, imagine a scooter next to any motorcycle that you are familiar with, odds are that motorcycle is considerable larger than the scooter.  So, if drivers don't see a motorcycle which is significantly larger, they are even more likely to miss seeing a scooter.

Don't get me wrong, I am not trying to discourage scooter riders.  In fact, I think it is awesome that so many people are getting out there and getting their knees in the breeze, regardless of the speed.    I just don't want them buzzing around thinking people are watching for them and thinking they are safe.  Because you aren't, the only person looking out for you is YOU.

Be aware of your surroundings, assume no one sees you, even when you have the right of way, sometimes it's best to yield. Wear good shoes or boots, long sleeves or a jacket and a helmet.  You can get seriously hurt, even at 25 mph.  Most of all, have fun and live to ride another day.

Keep the rubber side down.

No Shirt, No Shoes, Homosexual, No Service.

Yesterday the Arizona Senate passed a bill that will allow businesses to blatantly discriminate against homosexual and transgender individuals.  The Republican House is expected to pass this bill today and have it on Governor Jan Brewer's desk by the end of the day.  

It's like a flashback to the 1960's, only instead of the signs saying "White" & "Colored" they will say "Straight" & "Queer".  

According to the Center for Arizona Policy this law is needed due to the "growing hostility toward religion".  Gee, I can't imagine why considering conservative religions are supporting anti-abortion laws, fighting same gender marriage and a host of other policies that infringe upon the rights of Americans.  According to Republican Senator Steve Yarborough this measure is "about preventing discrimination against people who are clearly living out their faith".  Really?

Call me crazy, because I don't see anyone beating down the doors of religious institutions forcing people to let homosexual and transgender individuals into their places of worship. Nor do I see anyone persecuting Christians, more often it is the Christians who are doing the persecuting.  Most religions encourage their congregants to love thy neighbor, not drive them away.  I don't see organizations that support the homosexual & transgender communities refusing service to conservative religious members.  Could it be because those organizations, religious or not, are actually doing a better job of living the word of God than those who profess to be his messengers?

Please explain to me how it is ok for you to infringe on my rights?  No, on second thought, don't tell me because it will not make any sense.  However, if you are the owner of a business, or know of a business that supports this invitation to discrimination, please, please, please let me know.  I want to make sure you don't get any of my money and I'll be happy to share your company's name with everyone I know so you don't get their money either.  

A Different Kind of Church Dinner

In downtown Phoenix there is a church with a long history.  In 1893 the Smith Chapel was built at what is now 546 East Osborne Road.  As the congregation and church buildings grew, it was renamed Bethel Methodist Church.  The Bethel Methodist Church building is a traditional mission style building with several very large stained glass windows, a cathedral ceiling with open beams and many other beautiful features.  Adjacent to church building were school and fellowship buildings.

In 2012 the Methodists made the decision to close the church and deconsecrate the building. The property was purchased by a local development company seeking to revitalize the area.  While keeping the historic atmosphere of the church, the main building was modernized and converted to a restaurant named Taco Guild.

Recently I had the pleasure of dining at the Taco Guild, with, appropriately enough, my church's supper club.  When looking at the web site, I was impressed with the unconventionality of turning an old church into a restaurant and looked forward to our dinner there.  The interior of the building looks much as I imagine the Methodist left it, including the beautiful stained glass windows & the framed church bulletin board which now houses an electronic jukebox.

The vestibule is now a cozy dining area, perfect for larger groups. The main dining room was spacious and tastefully done.  Where once there stood an alter, there is now a bar.  Other furnishings included padded pews, candelabras, wrought iron chandeliers and old photographs which may or may not have been original but certainly could have been.    I can't remember the last time I was so enamoured by a restaurant's building and atmosphere, that alone makes Taco Guild worth visiting.

Of course the main reason people go to a restaurant is to eat, right?  So, let's talk about the food.  The menu is rather limited, consisting mostly of, guess what, TACOS!  But these are not your ordinary everyday tacos, a couple of examples  are the AL PASTOR PORK grilled pineapple, jalapeño bacon, pickled red onion and THAI SNAPPER coconut green curry, sweet Thai slaw.  Each taco is available on a corn or flour tortilla about 4 inches in diameter.

Being a bit of a traditionalist, I was a bit hesitant about the menu.  So I went the safe route and ordered the braised beef and chipotle cherry steak.  Both were scrumptious, as was the grilled corn off the cob.  The entire meal exceeded my expectations and days later I am still thinking "damn those were good tacos".  I also want to add that the service was excellent, our glasses were kept filled along with our bowls of chips and salsa.

If you are a Phoenix local, this is definitely a place to visit.  So, go have a church dinner.