On the thorns of confusion. He loves me. He loves me knot.(National Lib. NZ/Commons.wikimedia.org)
Anyone can do it. Wit.
Cleverness trumps all…Uh, sort of. Sometimes sly simply trips.
“Give roses. Say you are sorry without admitting guilt!” encourages a local florist’s sign.
Sneaky! Not really an apology, is it. If you aren’t guilty, why the “Sorry“? Offering a bribe rather than remorse.
Pretty wink-wink to me, but admitting guilt is so out of style. Self esteem blooms with thorns.
Actually, your great great grandparents settled waaaay over there. Not here. Sorry. The exit is on the right.(Mascot pict/CBS/Wikimedia.com)
No guilty conscience from those who created one commercial hoping gain company wampum.
The perky lady on the TV screen said she knew a little about her ancestors, but was curious about what countries really made up her heritage.
A little spit, mailing to Ancestory.com, and a % pie chart of country heritage appears.
She was totally stunned to find out she was 25% Native American. WOW! Thrilled, she could hardly wait to “explore my Native American heritage”.
Oh, great. No doubt all the tribes have by now posted her picture at entrances with persona non grata. Next to Elizabeth Warren’s.
Seriously, Native American heritage is sacred. It shouldn’t be a marketing gimmick.
- “Indianness” (First Nations News and Views. Box checking and cultural hybrids)
- “The Politics of Spiritual Genocide” (Cole R. Delaune.ICTMN). “
The rule always was this in the neighborhood: “If you aren’t living on the reservation or getting oil money, you don’t have enough to count.” It’s rude and disrespectful to barge in on others’ lives and traditions – especially for the purpose of gaining something for yourself.
Just celebrate the heritage you’ve lived, OK? Like it makes any difference anyway. Mutts. All of us mutts. If it matters. And it shouldn’t. You are who you are.
Mama told me not to come.(USPD/Wikimedia.org)
Most of Houston would like to know who these people are. (And we don’t think it’s confused Little Bo Peep.)
“Families plead for help after trailer, animals headed to Rodeo stolen from Houston motel.”
“In all, four lambs and two goats were stolen — a total of six projects from six students (five families) destined for the livestock show. They were to weigh in today (Wed.)
“In a way I want to kick something, in a way I want to cry. I don’t know what to feel. I really don’t,” said theft victim Darrell Lambert.
Neither do the youngest of the victims, like Evan Sylvester, age 9. “I think that they’re just being selfish and not being very kind and nice. … It’s like losing your favorite dog,” said Sylvester.” (abc13.com – article and video)
VIDEO “Thief steals trailer with kids’ livestock show lambs inside. (Khou.com)
So if you come across a suspicious 2004 white/recently painted Chevy Tahoe, a low profile 2012 Jackson trailer with generator and AC left on to keep it cool inside, or a couple of lost little lambs, please call: Crime Stoppers at 713.222.TIPS or Houston Police at 713.308.3500
This theft is completely over the line. Far past the edge of humanity.
As low as stealing bronze vases from cemeteries.
Git a rope.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Hoping those kids get to see a better day on the wing.©
March 8th and the world didn’t end. So it didn’t matter if I slept late or not.
People tend to worry too much. They think everything in existence behaves just like they do.
Voted least likely to forgive and forget a no-show. (whatsthatpicture/commons.wikimedia.org)
Remember that kid in your group that would promise – PROMISE – to show up someplace, but at the last minute, MIA?
“Something came up. Sorry about that.”
Despite being one of March 8th’s major Doomsday players, Asteroid 2016 TX 68, realized it had a previous appointment and put the stardust to the orbit. Swooped by early on Monday, March 7th, about 8:42 am EST.
Can’t trust those wanna-be star types. (Why the slippery asteroid surprised scientists)
Then there’s the eager social butterflies who shine brighter together.
Sun and Moon: the original Twiddle Delight and Twiddle de Fun. This pairing featured the first of the year’s six SuperMoons and the only Total Solar Eclipse for 2016. (Ignore all that Earthy tidal potential. Just more theatrical overhead.)
Hey, my agent said these things would drone on. But I’m wondering, do drones even have tiny pilots?(USPD)
In any crowd, and there’s always one with Oppositional Disorder.
That’s Jupiter right now.
A bit standoffish, Jupiter is currently the brightest object in the sky and exactly opposite the sun in the sky so it is rising just as the sun sets and stays visible until setting as the sun rises. (Jupiter’s Return. space.com).
Not sure if the big planet is independently moving with super confidence of its’ own abilities or showing an unwillingness to work with others.
Or maybe it’s all just a jumble of rocks rolling.
“Sound and fury signifying nothing.”
Always something to those who wish it to be: Seeing signs and auspicious occasions.
Decided by point of view.(Flying through Aurora’s Green Fog.NASA.gov/ USPD)
On August 22, 1142 there was a total solar eclipse. Three and a half minutes. Impressive.
Also on that date, the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, possibly the one of the world’s oldest democracies, was finalized as the Senecas joined with other nations (Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga) in accepting “The Great Law of Peace.” The ratification council met near what is now Victor, NY (call “Gonandaga” by the Seneca)
Long before their time, gender specific rights, duties, and responsibilities existed here. Under The Great Law, women owned the lands and homes, held veto power in some situations if war was being considered, and the clan mothers chose the male candidates for chief.
Read more about that notable eclipse and a Confederacy of Laws here:
- A serious article (archeology, oral history by the tribal Keepers vs European history, and co-founders including Hiawatha and Jingosaseh, a woman) “Dating the Iroquois Confederacy“
- Or here’s a short version with maps and pictures, “Solar eclipse marked the beginning of Iroquois Confederacy.”
Certainly enough to keep one spinning.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Thin band of everything and nothing. (Last sunrise from a Year in Space/NASA.gov/USPD)
Things are looking up. Supermoon, eclipse, and asteroid all on the same day, March 8th. Helmets on?©
Draped for fashion, protection, or intimidation?(USPD)
Stately. Distant. Mysterious.
Draped with grand dignity or great dread. (Certainly not talking to the likes of we. Most likely viewed as simple hanger-oners.)
Of such standing, they breeze above daily common concerns. Would that we all.
Hanging around with this Lady in grey.©
Bin decided. We voted: Don’t feel like dying on this flight. No one can bring/use a hibachi on a flight either, so get over it.
She has standing – even draped and laced.(USPD)
Vape at home. Between the batteries and suspect chemicals in the aerosol cans, e-cigs banned.
Might actually prevent some fist fights on board. Seen the snotty combative glares between users and non users?
- Why the U.S. has officially banned electronic cigarettes, or Vaping, on Planes (Fortune)
- Vape Pens and E-cigs are blowing up. Like, Literally. (Wired)
- Local man says e-cigarette charger exploded on him, caught on fire Only the shrimp were supposed to be boiled and baked. (New Orleans. news video)
Rumored to throw caution and acorns to the winds. Could be a nut case, though.©
Give Mom a break. Let her go shopping instead of helicoptering.
The statewide Great Texas Warrant Round-up has begun. Cops gather up all the outstanding warrants and chase down the ones involved at work or play and to haul them to jail and a judge.
Public service announcements have been running all week about “Come on down and pay up now.” The courts are happy to offer payment programs if needed or will substitute public service for those unable to pay fines or fees. As you can imagine, courthouses have been busy.
Stalwart defender. Everyone knows determined fans can be deadly.(USPD)
A reporter chatted with one nice looking young man as he stepped out after settling accounts. “Yeah, I had some traffic tickets and can’t have them showing up and dragging me off.” Big smiles and grins by all – as the camera swings around to the sweatshirted young man’s right.
There stood mom who proceeded to announce that she made him come down and take care of things. “He’s got two young boys and a pregnant wife at home. He can’t have the cops showing up.”
Uh, mixed reviews. Great mom is seeing that her kid does what needs to be done, but at some point maybe a parent of an adult might consider stepping back a little.
Herding thoughts towards a more uplifting round up, (balancing with the help of another devoted mom) Amberley Snyder is back in the saddle.
Stylishly swept to the side. Curves are in.©
Before she was 18, Amberley was on the fast track with her barrel racing horses: a world champion. Until her truck rolled and she was left completely paralyzed below the waist. (Wear those seat belts, kiddies. And don’t be a distracted driver)
From day one of her rehab therapy, she was determined to “Walk, ride, rodeo”.
Odds against her, she is riding again after 6 years. Watch her incredible journey here.
It wasn’t easy. She almost gave up. But Mom had the wisdom to say things like “Your horses have been hurt before and you waited for them to heal. They will do the same with you.” The horses have rewired their brains to ignore any bumps of touches from their rider’s legs or feet. Even more incredible, Amberley has begun to have some sensation of feeling in her legs. Doctors think it’s the riding: the stimulation on the spine.
Therapy horses’ rolling gait has been credited before for miracles with brain injuries, autism, and troubled minds.
Study arms able to support a Halloween event .©
Seems mother do really know best.
Just because they are draped, doesn’t mean they don’t know growth when it appears.
Skirting issues.(USPD)
Lichens it, or not.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge
Glad rags on. For whatever comes.Watch the solar eclipse live .©
What’s this? “Bigger on the inside.” (“See for yourself.”)
Could be a warning against overindulgence with Rodeo food.
Sounds cavernous. Like Mammoth-ish or a Carlsbad promo. Or a new shopping mall? No, nothing so deep.
The not-so-catchy slogan was chosen to spark people’s interest so they would be inspired to hand over cash for visiting the exhibit of JSC’s mock space shuttle sitting on top of NASA’s real shuttle transport aircraft, Boeing 747 N905NA. Banner statement hoping to fire up next generation of inventors and explorers.
“Mock” being the key word. Sly verb or smirking adjective. The joke that keeps on giving.
Maybe they were going for eye-popping contrast? Victorian lamp post with space age message: Irony or attitude? (Oh, don’t be blindsided. Those expensive federally funded street lights’ technology does more than show the light.)©
That’s the best marketing some rocket scientists’ PR people can come up with?
No wonder NASA is hitching rides on other countries’ rocket ships.
Thinking government contract?
Actually a joint campaign by the Space Center Houston non-profit and a very small city (1.4 square miles of land) sitting just across the street from Johnson Space Center which is actually located (and claiming bragging rights as well as benefits) by the big city of Houston (599.6 square miles of metro area).
Best not snark too loudly. Don’t wish to be unkind or politically incorrect. (They say the Zika Virus has been around for some 50 years or so. You know, resulting in tiny brains…)
It is read. Like The Scarlet Letter.
And also a Jobs Program: people had to have endless meetings and votes on designs, print up the banners, count them, drive the truck, and hang them. (Woo hoo! Yes. Living minimum wage for all. No matter what the level of performance or initiative!)
No mocking allowed here or anywhere anymore.
If you fly them, they will come. (Space Center Houston) Tickled to pieces at the arrival. The big old historical thing was quite moving even before it parked here.
Nothing like taking care of overhead – even if you are spaced out.
Just never know what will flower from a little effort.
Seeing the signs,
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge
Staying grounded? Dig in here: Mammoth Cave National park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Look closely and you’ll see bluebonnets and wild flowers blooming on the roof. The Ghirardi Oak/WaterSmart Park partially funded by federal grant for ecology oriented projects/your tax dollars. People were divided whether to take the money or not, but the tree needed to park it. There’s lovely well-worded signage about sod roof, rain barrels, swales, and water conservation. A passive park. Can’t just have a park for a big old historic thing. Hope it gets imaginations flying.©
The tree that jumped up and moved in order to survive, the Ghirardi Compton Oak. Don’t worry, while admittedly a bit scraggly, oak trees here are in the process of shedding their last years’ leaves and putting on new ones – all during a couple of weeks. Yep, Spring here means lots of falling leaves and raking right now. (Follow the oak’s moving story in previous posts)©
Pushing up daisies or a tricky hole in one?©
Hee-haw. It’s time to get down and dirty. Tear em’ up, pardners.
Ready to girth up? It’s rodeo time. Meat, you there. (You do have your doc on speed dial, right?)
Out of the first chute are new offerings in gourmet carnival feedbags:
- Forget those soggy collapsing cardboard trays of nachos. This year tote Halloween loot-sized plastic buckets of nacho chips! Layers and layers of gooey
unidentified yellow goopcheese sauce, chips, and jalapeños. (A Bucket List item for real.) - Twisted heat from Candy Apples dipped in Tajin, a powdered seasoning made with lime juice, hot chile peppers, and salt. (What was that about an apple a day calls the doc?)
- Chomp a Koolicle: sour and sweet pickles spa-soaked in fruit punch Kool-Aid for 3 days. Or stick with the deep fried pickle spears.
- Deep fried unsalted butter with choice of dipping sauces.
- A Deep Fried Snickers Sunday smothered with warm caramel and peanuts, topped vanilla ice cream with mountains of whipped cream and a cherry. (Easy to wear this body experience inside and out.)
- Last year it was all bacon, bacon, bacon. This year bacon popcorn is being joined by a fiery clear-your-sinuses-out spicy version. (Have the beer chilled and ready at hand!)
- Wanna a better view? Ch 26 Carnival Food Video or another serving at Midway Gourmet with Cleverley.
Hit the rode, cowboys and cowgirls.
There’s nothing like deep fried foods on a hot day, with elbow to elbow crowds, and a fist full of tickets for carnival rides!
Gagging Gasping for mercy? Try Katherine’s Chuckwagon Creamed corn or Jalapeño Margarita recipes.
Slipping through the cracks.©
Talk about gagging, then there’s People as meat.
Yep, ripped open human flesh looks just like stuff in the butcher’s case. (Oh, please can’t disengage for a minute to objectively, scientifically notice the animal within?)
Chunks gouged and open wounds does brings to mind certain gruesome movies. Not really what you want for real life neighborhood fare.
The phone call belongs in horror movies: One beginning with “I thought I was going to die.”
A small update concerning the vicious pit bull(s) attack on Molly and Staff,Too last week. Both are healing. While there are Frankenstiches to tend on Staff,Too, Molly smugly says, “A plush coat hides so much.” (A girl is always concerned about her appearance.)
Molly isn’t holding any grudges against other canines or nervous about being out of the house. Holding her same cheerful attitude, Molly is willing to deal with life as it comes, no less.
No, that’s not a dirge you hear playing. Pretty flowers! Just pretty flowers! For celebration.©
No less has a place.
It has been no less – and a few daze more – than 5 years for this blog.
A handful of years and hands down the best readers in existence.
A big Thank You to every single reader and follower who stumbled and mumbled this way.
Can’t express for grateful I am for all the comments, kindness, challenges, and camaraderie I’ve found here.
RC Cat insists more celebration is in order…something about catnip mousies for all. Perhaps at a future date.
RC Cat thinking deep thoughts of catnip mousies in swag bags…or not.©
Meanwhile, cheers to fellow bloggers! Onward through the fog and blogs!
Chew r great.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
It’s great! They didn’t even care I ate yet another harness. And yogurt. I get yogurt without whining. Although the cheese lumps taste a bit odd…but cheese!©
There are risks, and then there are risks. Mom couldn’t really complain if I rode. I had college pictures of her on motorcycles. Besides my uncle had one. Not as fine as this BMW R7 Concept motorcycle, though.©
A social climber going to the extremes.
Obviously not Santa Claus. Somehow expected her excuse to be “Proactive spring chimney cleaning for next year’s reindeer stop.”
She doesn’t appear to be an elf. Lost, maybe.
Lucky she had a cell phone to call 911.
Wonder if this social climber posted on social media while waiting?
“First responders free woman trapped in chimney in Spring” (ABC13 video/story)
Speaking socially, glad last week is over and done.
If the car posts hadn’t been parked waiting for a green light, this blog would have featured emptiness with even darker thoughts.
Things left loose took a bite out of life: both human and dog.
While I was off helping with sick German and Ella, Molly and Staff,Too were victims of unprovoked dog attack from behind by two running at full speed loose pit bulls well-known in the neighborhood for previous vicious incidents.
Survived. Lucky.
Much time spent in ER, Vet, plastic surgeon, and lots of communication with animal control and police. Dogs jailed.
Now before I get all the usual hate mail from Pit Bull fans:
- It’s always been “Bad owners, not bad dogs” here. Actually read the previous posts before you start ranting.
- One of my dog’s besties is a huge – giant – white pit bull. Such a sweetie who just wiggles and vibrates with joy when she sees friends and their owners on walks. So well-mannered. So well behaved. Guided and cared for by responsible owners who have done a lot of work with socialization and dog behavior. Miss R a great pit bull. Champion for her breed.
- But be honest. Some people do not have the strength, determination, time, or the knowledge to have ANY aggressive, strong-willed, dominant breed dog. These two dogs were never socialized or trained to be safely among people or other dogs. Not did their owners heed warning signs.
- There have been numerous incidents with these dogs over the past 4 years – escalating in severity. Everyone kept saying, sooner or later a child or person will be hurt. And yes. It’s happened.
- Bad, arrogant owners who sometimes smugly demonstrated their own marginal control over the dogs. Sadly these dogs will pay for their owners’ irresponsibility and lack of concern.
- Once there’s human blood from an unprovoked attack off the dog’s property, a judge makes the call.
- Worse? We all know these owners will immediately go adopt more pit bulls and the cycle will start all over again.
Chilling, I know.
For a dog lover and one who has worked with rescue dogs having behavior issues, it’s no easy ride.
But it could have been a child.
Time to stop.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Comments are turned off. Heartbreaking. Exhausted. And what’s left to say?
Staff,Too and Molly are resting. Ahead are appointments, skin grafts, and irritation at the process. Molly’s very strong and blessed with a dense coat. A lesser dog would not have survived.
Sometimes running wild and free is a good idea, and sometimes it isn’t. (Coveted vintage motorcycle: an Indian Chief from the Art Deco Era)©
Requires a driver or a pilot?
Answered with a grin.
In 1936, William Bushnell Stout put on a happy face. Notice the scarab in the center?©
Eat your heart out, hippies.
This beetle-shaped car has your flower-powered VW Van beat.
Art Deco era vehicles were not just for the ultra thin Jet Set. Families were offered aviation styling and aerodynamic rides, too.
Sleek and streamlined, the Stout Scarab sports a rear engine. Proud owners bragged it was a living room on wheels with moveable seats, folding table, and a backseat that folded into a couch.©
Designed to carry lots of passengers comfortably, less than 10 Scarabs were produced. Note the windshield panes come to a point in the center. Flash Gordon might mistake the Scarab for a space ship.©
Just for giggles, imagine this vehicle pulling an Airstream trailer behind it. It would be like a silver caterpillar caravan.
By now you are probably thinking the Scarab could be the ancestor of the VW Van and all the minivan mania.
Considering that, what do you make of this one?
Does this bug you? A 1938 Tanta T97 designed in Czechoslovakia by Hans Ledwinka.©
The streamlined teardrop shape was borrowed with permission from Zeppelin designer Paul Jaray. Appearing long before fin fright from the movie “Jaws”, this dorsal fin could be considered the first “fast-back”. The futuristic four door model was the smallest car produced by Tatra. Parts of this design were stolen and later appeared in the VW Beetle.©
Tatra wasn’t the only design that featured integrated fenders to improve aerodynamic form.
Smooth ride promised by this sleek Chrysler Thunderbolt. Looks fast even standing still.©
Wrap around ribbon of chrome was part of the design. Dreamily cloud-like with white sidewalls. All that’s needed is a flight crew.©
Life artfully done.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Related post: “Cruise worthy. Auto go.“
MFAH “Sculpted in Steel” exhibit of Art Deco era vehicles ©
Proof some mirages do exist. Dreams touched.
Like an ocean wave. Delahaye 135 Roadster by French coach builders Figoni and Falaschi for 1937 Paris Auto Show. All aluminum body, red leather interior by Hermes. Plenty of horsepower with a disappearing front windshield. Sleek fluid chrome details were signature. You’d have to shell out some for that one.©
Appropriately tagged “Sculpted in Steel” the classic grace and luxury of Art Deco vehicles draws admirers even today.
Flight worthy: Hispano-SuizaH6B Dubonnet”Xenia” coupe. Birkgit’s auto and aircraft engineering company had a reputation for not only mechanical durability, but also speed, performance, and luxury. Designer Jean Andreau, who designed avant-guard streamlined aircraft and cars, worked with Parisian coachbuilder Jacques Saoutchik to build this one to look resemble an airplane with even the interior mimicking an airplane’s cockpit. ©
Nothing like a pretty face. “Xenia” coupe. Named after the designer’s late wife.©
Eat your heart out, Batman.©
Multiple reasons why these innovative dramatic cars would have no chance of hitting the road today:
- First, no broads. Not talking about women. No plus sizes of any sort to warm these snug leather seats. Did people try on cars like we try on shoes? Can insurance companies deny claims for weight loss treatments in order to fit into a classy car? Hobbies are healthy, right?
This racy one’s mine. Now if you’ll just distract the guards. 1934 Edsel Fords Model 40 Special Speedster. Designed by styling chief E.T. “Bob” Gregorie with Ford Aircraft Division fabricators. One of a kind made for Edsel B. Ford.©
- Not your slap together quick-build vending machine cars. No “pick one from the pictures and it will be here next week.” Each of these classics were hand-made. Good, no, great things came to those who waited.
- Marketing departments would go nuts or disappear. Forget driving in crowds of eager buyers. Why advertise? Limited editions command high prices, so do the finest of materials. The problem would be scale of production. During this era of auto design, runs of car models were often limited to one to ten cars in total. Although exclusive designs still appeal to those who can afford them, customized existing models and cosmetics satisfy. Not the same.
The neighbors would be green with envy over this Chrysler Imperial Model C2 Airflow Coupe in your driveway.©
- Chrome in its’ place. These cars were sleek, streamlined, with a good deal of influence from the aviation and industry. (Before NASA was even dreamed of.) Aerodynamics was as important as shiny. Grilles, headlamps, hood ornaments were part of the original cars’ concepts and designs, not aftermarket stick-ons to fancy up a dull vehicle ’cause that’s all you can afford.
- Then there’s the freeways – which are anything but living up to their name. Endless lanes of crawling along, bumper car games, and the jerks (meaning “stop and go” as well as the drivers…) Repair costs on these sleek beauties would be sky high even if detailed oriented craftsmen could be found. Fine work takes forever complete. Not for fast paced consumers today. Don’t even get started on road rage possibilities.
Ready to sweep you off your feet. Talbot-Lago T150 C-SS Teardrop Coupe.©
Another pretty face. Sparkle, Baby. Bush on the cheeks or ruby-red nail polish is always classic.©
- Regulations might keep them parked. These vehicles are heavy weights, but built for speed. There weren’t any crumple zones, headrests, airbags, or seat belts. Not for wimps or the overly protective.
Gleaming beauty. This hood shape is often called a “coffin nose” by gear heads. Just coincidence, I’m sure.©
- Comfort zone limits. Seriously. People had to actually crank windows up and down or push them open at the bottom. Primitive. Exhausting.
Ready to bug out in this classy Bugatti? We’ll made do without the back up cameras.©
Of course the paparazzi will follow, but you can outrun them.©
The years between the 1920s-1930s produced some of the most elegant, creative auto designs ever.
Glamor, grace, and innovation.
Machine inspired. Artistically desired.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston is featuring some of the best in their latest exhibit, “Sculpted in Steel: Art Deco Automobiles and Motorcycles 1929-1940.”
Art Deco styling influenced everything from fashion, fine arts, architecture and autos.
Proof world doesn’t have to be ugly and stark to function.
All a matter of choice and desire.
(The word “desire” somehow seems most appropriate for these cars.)
Wait until you see the really wild designs. Next time, the unusual ones. HA!
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Some Hollywood glam. Just seems to have petticoats and a Pin-up Girl attitude. 1930 Cord L-29 Cabriolet©
This car should cause a few ripples. Probably turned heads. Once owned by Frank Lloyd Wright. What a great car for prom.©
Even in the absence of delight, it’s there.©
Glower and glow, there’s something you know. (All in the way, you see.)
Dark holes full and holding or into Darkness all falling? Collection or oblivion: few know.
A concern of non-matter. (except to any Mad Hatter) so no need to shuffle brain cells.
A clutter of distractions segmenting actions.
Whooo’s in charge: a lone owl overseeing this stage.
Transparency being as fragile as glass.
It is what it is.
As the Tin Man found, there’s light at the end of any funnel.
Even with a whole lot of bark in the dark
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge
(Excuse the confounding. The German is having tummy concerns, it’s raining, and she has trouble working door knobs in case of potty emergencies, so assistance has been requested. Molly Malamute is quite miffed saying she had plans, but RC Cat is quite firm about helping friends in need.)
Computer brained. Nature trapped by the hard drive. That’s life.©
What if, it was all illusion?
Only images in a cold game of chance.
Enhanced experiences available – with bits of coin or stardust.
Driving hard. Forcing the free of form, the organic in origin, over the cliff. Terminated. The messy cleaned. No more.
Would angels mourn?
Only the game maker knows.
System restore?
“Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.” (Albert Einstein)
“What if everything is an illusion and nothing exists? In that case, I definitely overpaid for my carpet.” (Woody Allen)
Reboot for re:fun.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
If it’s all an illusion, that means them, too, right? Or are they the ones creating the code? If so, we now know who to blame as it didn’t translate so well. ©
Systems restored here:
- “Google Cardboard now used at local hospital to comfort younger patients.” VIDEO with basketball’s Dwight Howard introducing Memorial Herman’s Google Cardboard to some excited little patients. Intrigued?
- Dwight also made the kids a 360/virtual reality tour of the Rocket’s locker room.
- Get your own Google Cardboard here.
Recalculating. Sky blue is always at the top over the purple mountains? System crashes are so annoying.©
To whom it may concern: Dear WordPress,
Please excuse Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge for being Tardy / Absent on (day, month, year) a really sunny day that’s not too hot and not too cold with lots of wind because we have to get outside before the pollen, mosquitoes, and humidity become completely unbearable.
It is understood that any assignments missed must be made up. (Oh, good. We are good at making stuff up)
Thank you for your attention in this matter.
HRH RC Cat, Regent of the Realm.
Do not attempt to escape the glare and glower. Such unauthorized action will not be taken lightly.©
What? We suspected something was a foot. And uncovered this draft.
We wish to make it perfectly clear that the signature above is NOT Ours and completely unauthorized.
The very nerve. Absent without leave?
When we find Staff there shall be The Paw to face.
Oh, an open window.
Hands up if you’re ready to make a break for it and scale the walls outta there.©
Move over dunderhead, you are blocking Our access.
Fool. Were you the clod that refuse Sir Paul, The Legend, entry to that Grammy After Party, too? Take care less your reputation precede you.
Oh, Staff has not abandoned their tasks! A surprise entertainment has been arrange window-side: Mosquito Hawks! We shall accept – the unexpected games and Staffs’ daftness.
Just this once. It was only a draft.
Although that signature….ah, the poor creatures dream of what it must be like.
You have Our permission to withdraw.
Even Ms. Papaya is ready for a road trip. Her thumb-branch is out: she’s even hitched up her skirts to show a little stem in an effort to get to the beach, the hussy.©
Let yourself out. Staff is busy herding amusements Our way…like a cattle drive. Oh, now that’s a flight of fancy thought.
We are done sharing – Our thoughts and Our space.
Audience Fini
Wait.
It would be wise to leave several cans of cat food in tributes – just in case Staff forgets the time from sunstroke or wind burn or something. Yes. Yes We shall remember your willingness to seek Our favor…if the several turns out to be more than 2.
In addition, you could perhaps leave the door ajar as you leave? No?
It would so please Us if you could just shoo one of the performers inside. So wonderful We could just eat them up. (Fastily/Commons.wikimedia.org)
Oh, then the performers shall just have to do without Our royal paw smashing them offered for their obeisance.
Hands up if you agree Spring Fever has arrived. Yes, plants participate in elections. Smarter voters than some people.©
Off you go now. We tire of your shuffling and muttering.
And a subtle reminder: We are expecting tribute.
Toddle on off. A command. Not a request.
I am RC Cat and I approve this message. (Authenticity of signature assured.)
So deeply absorbed in conversation, the pair are unaware.©
“The secret life of things: what it wants to be rather than what it is” (author unknown)
The difference between reality and stark reality.
“There are things known and there are things unknown, and in between there are doors of perception.” (Aldous Huxley)
“All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream” (Edgar Allan Poe)
“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for out senses to grow sharper” (W.B. Yeats)
Short, but sighted.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge
Turning to gossip. Everyone has a hand in this. “Great minds talk of ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” Eleanor Roosevelt. ©
Now this is what a beach should be like: empty. ©
Digging sand.
Between Mardi Gras and before Spring Break: Best time of the year for the beach.
Oh, OK. As an alternative to bemoaning the frigid world outside your window, grab the flip flops and pretend.
Maybe not snow white, but these sands sans tar. (Yes, shoveling, but it’s optional, not mandatory!)
An actual shell half buried? Rare here with the broad shallow coastal shelf and pounding waves. But you since can already hear the ocean here, so shells not required.
Seaweed neatly lined up at the edge of the surf. A thin red line. Molly attempted to return stray clumps that seemed to be making a break for the dunes…just neatening things up as she went.
Seagulls surfing at the edge of the water. A catered dinner must have been ordered ahead of time and delivered promptly. That lump on the horizon is one of 14 or so vessels waiting to go into the Ship Channel and head to Houston’s port.©
This is the first time Molly Malamute hasn’t been disturbed by the constantly moving waves. Before she seemed to think they were leaping towards her in attack mode…and she felt outnumbered.
Digging freely without annoying human complaints was a more interesting distraction. Watch out, crabs.
“No, we are not adopting it.”
What’s with her new game? “All Fall Down” – instantaneously – collapsing completely without warning. Like some unseen hand jerks her legs out from under her leaving a goofy smiling dog flat on her side.
“Yes, there will be baths.”
Turning back walking west towards the Pleasure Pier. You can see the Ferris Wheel and rides on the end boardwalk there. It looks frosty, but it’s not – just the sun’s glare. ©
Behind the dunes on the right are the narrow wetlands / coastal prairie between the beach with a small public access parking lot. Past that and the grassy fields is the road paralleling the seawall. Behind the sea wall are a few city blocks snuggling up to the very large UTMB Galveston Medical School and Hospital Complex which backs up to the wharfs, docks, cruise ships, and the water on the other side of the island.
Not much room. It’s an island.
Time to head back to the car. Molly is looking for last minute souvenirs. In the background is UTMB Galveston Med.Center.©
A developer is building homes that will look over the dunes to the beach. Although these are perched up on stout poles, the protecting sea wall will be behind them.
Hurricanes? People have short memories. Newcomers are thrilled by the location: beach and water views, and easy walking distance to the Boardwalk.
Sure, it’s fine. No worries.
Wonder if they know what’s right behind them? (Picture above.)
See that second from the left fortress-like building with the 4 lumps on top? Special air things. That building houses one of two National Biocontainment Laboratories in the US. All sorts of nasty viruses, infectious diseases, and bioterrorism weapon type things are sulking inside. Ebola’s contained there, although Zika is the focus right now (article on these scientists and current research efforts)
Like a complex story plot, add one more layer: about 80% of the state’s inmates/prisoners get their medical, dental, and health services in a ward at UTMB’s medical complex.
Bad people. Bad place. Bad stuff.
Everything needed for a real horror story! A terrorist movie plot! A conspiracy!
Sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays in the water aren’t the only worry on Galveston Island….HA HA HA! (Insert scary manic canned laughter here. Screams optional.)
Flowers in the dunes along beach access path. ©
One last look back through the dunes towards the water. A tanker in the distance in the anchorage.©
Sand knocked off feet, back in the car, and on the road headed to the causeway to the mainland.
Warmed by island life. Dog tired.
Beach perfect.
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
One of the dowager ladies that line Broadway, the boulevard that leads to the causeway to the mainland. This beauty has survive multiple hurricanes and storms – but we’ll do a house tour in another post.©
Sailboat resting on sand at Pine Gully during a winter’s low tide.©
After a stretch of grey cold weather, if a sunny mild weather appears, bloggers (and everyone – especially dogs) are running towards the light, I mean, exits. Not wanting to leave you totally high and dry if you are among the unfortunates in the top half of the US struggling with the latest Arctic front, here’s an effort to quickly amuse.
Lovely bay house facing Galveston Bay with Pine Gully on their north property line. Sailors are willing to make a few compromises in order to keep the boat by the house.©
Earlier in the week, we took Molly to hike along Pine Gully Trail to the banks of Galveston Bay. While it was sunny and mild, the wind was blowing pretty steady at 30 out of the north.
When that happens, water is blown out of Clear Lake (which drains to Galveston Bay/Ship Channel on the way to Gulf of Mexico). The gulls and water birds love it as they can easily walk on the mud flats all around the lake.
Low tides during those days bring even more challenges to boat owners. Boat owners prefer to have the boat at the house so you can fiddle with it during the week, do maintenance, and possibly take quick outings if there’s time and daylight.
Even with a blue blue sky, the towering cane, the wild waving grasses, the wind sweeping across the curving trail has the feeling of a horror movie. Not to Molly the Mauler.©
This house has a great location: on the banks of Galveston Bay with a breakwater at the mouth of Pine Gully so normally they can sail in and tie up at their own bulkhead.
Knowing the ways of tides and fronts, their boat doesn’t have a deep keel on the bottom (which balances the big sail when it’s up and holding wind – otherwise the sailboat falls over). This one has a daggerboard/centerboard that can be pulled up or pushed down through a slot in the hull as the water depth requires. Good for exploring inlets and places along the coastal waterways.
Another plus is with the water out, owners can check the hull without putting on diving gear. And it’s easier for dogs to jump on board. This house has a couple of well-trained Labs who stay close, but thoroughly enjoy splashing around in the gully….and protecting the boat.
“Come back. Stick with it. Branch out and explore more. …besides we aren’t through with you. Seen the old spooky graveyard? The archeological site? No digging, Molly. Next time maybe..”©
With all the restoration of the wetlands, the area is bound to be inviting for gators again. So far they seem to be sluggish and hiding…although when Molly started to rustle some brush along the trail, there was a clicking I took as a warning: “Do Not Disturb, yet.”
Warming up to stepping out
Phil, the Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge.
Bored? Warm up to Pine Gully Trail and soak in the delight:
- Before Hurricane Ike 2012. “End of the Campaign. End of the trail” Pine Gully then.
- Jan. 2014. “Gators. Where yat?”(Gators and other threats of Pine Gully. Environmental restoration begins)
- April, 2014. “Obscured on purpose?” (Leash that pup. Enjoy the new decor.)
- Jan. 2015. “Flyers. Bits and pieces” (archeological info and history’s tales)
- May. 2015. “Dog trots. trailing with mutters” (Checking out the upgrades. Lovely day to watch the ships from the banks of the bay)
OK same house, but trying to give you a look at that sailboat. Reminds me of a toddler sitting flat on the sand at the beach – one who will not notice or mind all the sand in the britches until the long ride home…©
Philosopher Mouse of the Hedge 