Going Home

My newest Art project.

Title: Going Home

Inspired by: Joe Bonamassa’s song “Driving Towards the Daylight”

The Story behind the art: We all have troubles and dark times throughout our lives whatever that may be. Sometimes we just want to run from those dark time. So, we run and run and we keep running, in fact, we run so much the next thing we realize is we are lost in that dark and depressing void, not knowing where to turn. I know this firsthand because I have been there. I learned quickly that running in the dark will only get you more lost and wear you out. But I also learned an even more important lesson, that with God at the center of my life I can find the light of day and my way home. Now I run towards the light of day and home and away from the darkness. Don’t get me wrong, the darkness still catches up with me occasionally, but with God’s help and my family and friends, I can always find my way home and you know what? ………... you can to.

Unleashing Creativity: your Blueprint for an Extraordinary Invention

Hey everyone, lend me your ears…and your imaginations! We're about to embark on a journey of pure, unadulterated invention! Forget self-driving cars and robot butlers, we're talking about dreaming up something completely, utterly new.

I’ve been pondering this question myself – if I, a humble purveyor of words and whimsy, could invent anything, what would it be? And it hit me like a runaway hot air balloon filled with squirrels (don't ask): I'd invent the "Uni-flavour Eliminator 3000"!

Imagine, just imagine, a world free from the tyranny of Potatoes! For those of you blessed with taste buds that don't perceive this verdant

menace as soapy dishwater, congratulations, you've won the genetic lottery. But for the rest of us, victims of this culinary conspiracy, the Uni-flavour Eliminator 3000 would be a godsend. Point it at your offending food item – pho, salsa, even your well-meaning but Potatoes-obsessed friend’s carefully crafted guacamole – and zap! Potatoe flavour, banished! Replaced with…well, nothing. Or maybe the subtle hint of rainbows. The possibilities are endless!

But enough about my genius, let’s talk about you. Because that, my friends, is the real reason we’re gathered here today, physically or virtually, wherever your curious minds may have landed.

I want to know: If you could invent anything in the world, what would it be and why?

Think big. Think small. Think utterly ridiculous. No idea is too outlandish. This isn’t Shark Tank; we’re not worried about market viability or profit margins. This is pure, unfiltered imagination. Let it run wild like a herd of hamsters on caffeine.

Would you invent a device that translates animal languages? Finally

understand what your cat is incessantly complaining about? (Probably something about the insufficient fluffiness of their designated napping spot).

Perhaps a teleportation device? Skip the soul-crushing commute, pop over to Paris for a croissant, and be back in time for your afternoon meeting. Just remember to factor in time zone differences, wouldn't want to materialize mid-air over the Eiffel Tower. Awkward.

Maybe you’d invent a self-folding laundry basket. Because, let’s be honest, who among us hasn’t stared at that mountainous pile of clean clothes and contemplated just… living in it?

Or how about something more profound? A cure for all diseases? A machine that generates world peace? A device that allows you to experience other people's memories? (Be careful with that one. Aunt Mildred’s fruitcake recipe might be more than your psyche can handle).

Don’t hold back. Let those inventive juices flow. The world needs your weirdness. We need your solutions to problems we haven’t even thought of yet. We need your whimsical creations that make us laugh and question the very fabric of reality.

Think about the why as well. What drives your invention? Is it a desire to solve a problem? To explore the unknown? To simply make the world a more fun and interesting place?

Maybe your invention is purely personal. A machine that perfectly applies eyeliner. Shoes that never get smelly. A device that silences the annoying chewing noises of your co-worker. (We’ve all been there).

This isn't just a thought experiment, it's a glimpse into the power of human ingenuity. It's a reminder that we are all creators, capable of imagining and shaping the future. Your invention, no matter how silly or serious, is a reflection of your unique perspective and your hopes for the world.

So, what are you waiting for? Share your inventions! Let’s create a symphony of absurdity and brilliance. Let's fill the world with imaginary gadgets and fantastical contraptions. Let's laugh, ponder, and maybe even be inspired to bring some of these creations to life.

Don't be shy. The world is waiting to hear what wonders your mind can conjure. Because who knows, maybe, just maybe, your invention will be the next big thing…or at least the next big laugh.

Now, let the invention-fest begin! What will you create? Tell us in the comments below! And please, someone invent a self-cleaning toilet. Humanity needs it.

Longmire: A Masterpiece of Television Storytelling

 

Hey everyone! Today I'm diving into a show that holds a special place in my heart, one that I wish had graced our screens for many more seasons. I'm talking about "Longmire," a gem of a series that takes us to the rugged beauty of Absaroka County, Wyoming, and introduces us to its fascinating sheriff. Get ready, because I'm about to tell you why this show is so binge-worthy.

The television series "Longmire" stands as a testament to the power of exceptional storytelling, compelling characters, and stunning visuals. From its captivating pilot episode to its poignant finale, "Longmire" has left an enduring legacy as one of the greatest Westerns in recent memory.

Indelible Cast and Characters

The heart and soul of "Longmire" lies in its remarkable cast. Robert Taylor embodies Walt Longmire, a weathered and charismatic sheriff struggling to come to terms with the loss of his wife. Katee Sackhoff shines as Vic Moretti, a sharp-tongued and independent deputy who becomes Longmire's loyal partner.

Each character in "Longmire" is meticulously developed, with their own unique backstories, motivations, and conflicts. The writers

deftly intertwine their narratives, creating a rich tapestry of human experiences. From the enigmatic Henry Standing Bear to the cunning Jacob Nighthorse, every character adds depth and complexity to the show.

Stunning Visuals and Sound

"Longmire" is not only a literary tour de force but also a feast for the senses. The cinematography captures the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming, from the vast prairies to the rugged mountains. Each shot is meticulously crafted, immersing viewers in the beauty and grandeur of the American West.

The sound design is equally masterful. The haunting score by David Torn and Michael Stearns perfectly complements the raw and emotional moments of the show. The thunderous hooves of horses, the crackling of campfires, and the eerie silence of the wilderness transport viewers to a world that is both alluring and foreboding.

Thoughtful and Timely Themes

Beyond its captivating characters and stunning visuals, "Longmire" explores profound and timely themes. It delves into the clash between tradition and modernity, the importance of justice, and the complexities of human relationships. The show also weaves in elements of Native American history and culture, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective on the American West.

Legacy and Influence

"Longmire" has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following. It has won numerous awards, including the Western Heritage Award for Best Television Series. The show's impact extends beyond the screen, inspiring books, a podcast, and even a line of whiskey.

"Longmire" has also played a significant role in the revival of the

Western genre. Its success has paved the way for other high-quality Westerns, proving that the genre can still resonate with modern audiences when done right.

Conclusion

"Longmire" is an exceptional television series that captivates the senses and stirs the soul. Its unforgettable characters, stunning visuals, thought-provoking themes, and lasting impact cement its place as a masterpiece of Westerns. For those seeking a truly immersive and enriching viewing experience, "Longmire" is an absolute must-see.

"Deep Thoughts from the Shallow End: A Comical Quest for the Silliest Questions!"

 

Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of humorous ponderings. You know, those questions that pop into your head at 3 AM, keeping you awake with a mix of laughter and existential dread? Yeah, those. I’ve been collecting them, like a squirrel hoarding unusually shiny nuts, and I'm ready to share.

See, humor is a sneaky little devil. It can make you snort your coffee out of your nose one moment, and then, BAM! You're suddenly spiraling down a rabbit hole of "wait, that's a really good question." That’s the stuff I live for. Not the coffee-snorting (although that's a solid Tuesday), but the kind of humor that tickles your funny bone while simultaneously poking at your brain.

So, without further ado, let's get to the good stuff, the questions that have probably plagued you at one point or another, and if they haven't, well, buckle up, because they will now.

First off, let’s tackle the sticky situation of movie theater armrests. Seriously, WHICH ONE IS MINE? Is it a Darwinian struggle where the most dominant elbow wins? Is it an unspoken agreement based

on seat number? I've spent many a cinematic experience in a state of awkward arm-limbo, afraid of accidentally declaring war on my neighbor. It's a whole geopolitical situation right there, and it's happening, like, every other night.

Then we have the doctor’s disappearing act during the changing room tango. I mean, come ON, doc! You’re going to see me in all my glory – or lack thereof - in a few minutes anyway. Are we really worried about the element of surprise? It's like they're playing a very elaborate game of peek-a-boo with our modesty.

Next up, the earth-core-hole-jumping conundrum. So, imagine you could dig straight through the earth. You jump in. Do you wind up suspended at the center like a human bouncy ball? It sounds like the premise of a really odd physics experiment. I'm not sure what’s funnier, imagining the logistics of this, or picturing myself as a human-sized bobber in the center of the planet.

And speaking of tricky situations, what if a witness, sworn to "tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth," just flat out says "nope?" Is that like a legal loophole? Does the court implode? I imagine lawyers furiously scribbling notes, a judge throwing his gavel, and the courtroom devolving into chaos.

Okay, moving on before reality crumbles. How far east can you go

before you're heading west? I mean, geographically speaking, that's some serious mind-bending stuff right there. It’s like trying to explain the concept of a sphere to a flat-earther (good luck with that, BTW).

Then we've got the baseball saga of the split-personality sphere. What happens when a batter sends a ball flying, clean in two, half going out, half caught? Instant double play? A weird kind of home-run-out hybrid? I picture the umpire just throwing his hands up and declaring, "I dunno, we're just going to have a beer."

And the arm-swaying bowling technique. Does anyone REALLY think that helps? I'd be willing to bet that 99% of people have no idea what direction their arm is even influencing, and are just doing it cause everyone else is. It’s like the placebo effect, but for bowling balls.

Okay, these are getting heavy. Let’s get to something we all can relate to: driving. Why is everyone faster than us an idiot, and everyone slower than us a moron? Is it some sort of universal, self-centered driving law? Is there a secret society that determines this? I bet they have really bad parking spots.

And now for the grand finale, we need to address some deep philosophical questions. If pro and con are opposites, is the opposite of progress, congress? Why is Vanilla Ice Cream white? when vanilla extract is brown, Are they peanut pieces or Styrofoam pieces? It's all just too much.

And hey, is Dictionary in the dictionary? Now how many of you looked up “dictionary” in the dictionary after reading that? Be honest. No judgement here. I might have done it myself. Don’t tell anyone.

So, there you have it, my brain dump of funny-but-thought-provoking questions. These are the things that keep me up at night, and probably you too now, sorry about that. But hey, at least we're all pondering it together, right? Let me know what you think down below, and maybe we can solve the mysteries of the universe together, one silly question at a time. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go figure out when "partly cloudy" becomes "partly sunny." My sanity depends on it.

The Wackiest New Year's Resolutions of 2025 (So Far!)

The new year has sprung, and with it, the inevitable flood of New Year's resolutions. Many of us have likely already stumbled in our attempts to stick to our ambitious goals. Don't worry, you're not alone! But instead of focusing on the failures, let's celebrate the wonderfully weird and hilariously relatable resolutions making the rounds this year.

I've compiled a list of some of the wackiest and funniest resolutions I've encountered – and trust me, they're a laugh riot. So grab your coffee (unless you're aiming for resolution #8!), settle in, and prepare to chuckle along.

1. Quit procrastinating… starting tomorrow. This classic is a personal favorite. The sheer audacity of it! It's almost inspirational in its blatant self-awareness.

2. Learn how to properly fold a fitted sheet. A universal struggle! This one resonates deeply, particularly for those who've endured years of wrestling with this deceptively simple piece of bedding.

3. Stop blaming the dog for questionable smells. Guilty as charged!

How many of us have looked at our furry friend with a knowing glare, silently assigning blame for that... ahem... aroma?

4. Use a calendar app to remember birthdays instead of panicking last minute. The harsh reality of aging. This one hits home,
reminding us that time marches on, and with it, the ever-increasing pressure to remember all those important dates.

5. Stop scrolling and actually go to bed when I say I was going to. Ah, the siren song of the smartphone. We've all been there, promising ourselves an early night, only to find ourselves hours later, still scrolling.

6. Remember that if I can’t say anything nice, say it with impeccable sarcasm. This is a resolution that combines honesty with a healthy dose of wit. A truly achievable goal for the masters of dry humor.

7. Learn how to fix that squeaky cabinet instead of just ignoring it.

The age-old battle of procrastination versus home repair. We all know that nagging squeak, and we all know we're avoiding it.

8. Spend less than $1,825 on coffee at Starbucks this year. A bold, ambitious, and arguably financially responsible goal. But let's be honest, that Starbucks siren call is strong.

9. Switch my username to “password” and my password to “username” to make each a lot harder for hackers to figure out. This one takes the cake for sheer, unadulterated comedic genius. It's so brilliantly wrong, it's almost right... almost.

10. Here’s to making better bad decisions this year. This is the resolution that encompasses the spirit of 2025. Embrace the chaos, and make the most of whatever questionable choices come your way!

Whatever your resolutions may be, and whether you succeed or not, here's to a fantastic 2025! Share your own resolutions in the comments below – let's laugh (and maybe learn a thing or two) together.

Top Ten Funniest New Year's Celebrations and Traditions (Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Absurdity of Midnight)

Let’s be honest, folks. New Year’s Eve. That glittering, champagne-soaked, slightly-nauseous culmination of another year hurtling past at the speed of a caffeinated tortoise. We all participate in the ritual, whether we’re glued to the TV watching the ball drop in Times Square (a giant, sparkly onion, if you ask me) or huddled around a lukewarm bowl of punch with our increasingly bewildered relatives. But some cultures take the whole "new beginnings" thing a little more… enthusiastically. A lot more enthusiastically, actually. And that’s where the real fun begins.

So, grab your party hats (the funnier, the better – I’m partial to the ones with flashing lights and questionable taste), because I’m about to regale you with my top ten funniest New Year’s celebrations and traditions from around the globe. Prepare for a giggle-fest of epic proportions.

1. The "Burning of the Old Year" (Various Cultures): Look, I get it. Symbolically incinerating everything bad from the past is tempting. But have you seen some of these effigies? We’re talking anything

from a simple scarecrow to elaborate representations of the year’s biggest disappointments (a giant, burning likeness of your ex, perhaps?). The sheer creativity—and slightly concerning pyrotechnics—makes this tradition a comedic goldmine. Just remember to keep a safe distance. And maybe avoid using your mother-in-law's likeness.

2. Throwing Furniture Out the Window (South Africa): I’m not kidding. In some parts of South Africa, tossing old furniture out the window is a popular way to usher in the New Year. Imagine the

chaos! The sheer logistics! The potential for insurance claims! I can practically hear the sound of shattering glass and exasperated sighs
from the city council. It's a chaotic symphony of good riddance, with a potential for extremely expensive cleanup. I’d recommend investing in some sturdy (and easily replaceable) furniture, just in case.

3. Eating Twelve Grapes at Midnight (Spain): This one sounds

simple, right? Wrong. Try cramming twelve grapes into your mouth while simultaneously shouting “Feliz Año Nuevo!” The resulting face contortions are priceless. It's a race against time, a test of dexterity, and a potential choking hazard all rolled into one glorious, grape-based spectacle. I've personally witnessed enough near-suffocation incidents to write a whole opera about it.

4. The Noise-Making Extravaganza (Worldwide): From firecrackers to car horns to banging pots and pans, the global obsession with making as much noise as humanly possible at midnight is, frankly,

hilarious. Imagine the collective ringing in the ears the next morning. It's a testament to our species' dedication to both celebrating and slightly self-harming. Bonus points for creative noise-making instruments. Who needs a traditional party horn when you can use a tuba filled with packing peanuts?

5. Wearing Red Underwear (Several Latin American Countries): This

one is less about laughter and more about a slightly awkward feeling of being perpetually judged by your undergarments. The idea is that wearing red underwear brings good luck. But let's be real, if bad luck is avoided purely by the color of your underwear, I think we’ve got bigger problems than just bad luck.

6. Jumping Over Waves (Brazil): This sounds refreshing, right? Until

you realize this usually involves a rather chilly ocean and a significant amount of potentially embarrassing tumbles. I admire the commitment to ritualistic sea-bathing, but personally, I'd rather stick to a hot shower.

7. Dropping a Puppet (Ecuador): These aren't your average sock puppets, either. We're talking about a full-sized, often grotesque effigy representing the previous year. The symbolic destruction is quite entertaining, but please, someone contact the puppet’s union about fair compensation for such dangerous work conditions.

8. The Mari Lwyd (Wales): This horse-skull-headed figure, sung

around by revelers, is unique, to say the least. The combination of a rather spooky creature and festive singing is... well, it's something. Let's just say it's a tradition that leaves a lasting impression (and maybe a slightly uneasy feeling lurking in the back of your mind).

9. First-Footing (Scotland): The tradition of the first person to enter your home on New Year's Day bringing good luck or bad luck based on their characteristics is a fascinating mix of superstition and societal awkwardness. It's quite possibly the source of many impromptu awkward first dates.

10. The Polar Bear Plunge (Various Locations): Let's be honest.

Jumping into freezing cold water in the name of celebration requires a specific type of bravery (or madness). The sheer, unadulterated joy (or screaming) of those emerging from the icy depths is simply unforgettable. And the post-plunge shivering? That’s comedic gold.

So there you have it: my top ten funniest New Year’s celebrations. Remember, the humor lies not only in the traditions themselves but also in the sheer human determination to celebrate – often hilariously – the passing of another year. Happy New Year, everyone! May your celebrations be filled with laughter, good fortune, and maybe a slightly less terrifying selection of effigies.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone