Ann of the Left Coast - April 1, 2009

April is really here and most evident as I rise before the break of day to bear witness to the natural world. Wispy and delicate clouds dot the sky as the golden hue shines brilliantly from the East as the world quiets and awaits that special moment. Sunrise! Glory, glory, glory! You have to be an early bird to catch the worm! No worms required today as the day of gloom is here for computers across our globe. If it's not one thing, it's another. Hooray to the G20 protesters who used eggs and fruit to make their point on Financial Fools Day, their mission to raise awareness on the class wars and thieves who steal from the poor to feed the rich, walking away with millions of dollars in their pockets even as unemployment continues to rise. Here in the U.S. of A., our government officials are now looking at controlled bankruptcy for the auto industry. Now, isn't that something. I must hurry along - things to do, people to see, and rabbit holes to explore!

Don't forget to stop and smell the roses!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 2, 2009

The bird songs are constant and rhythmic as the earth bathes in the glorious light of the morning sun that rose around 5:44 a.m. today, but has been around roughly 4.6 billion years, and is now about 300 degrees hotter and about 6% greater in radius than at birth. That's a lot of growing in such a short time! The spotlight is on the G20 leaders as they seek financial aid for the world economies. A mere $1 trillion dollars approved to provide $750 billion to countries with troubled economies, and another $250 billion to boost global trade. And, $580 billion is committed to rescue the country and people of Africa, and a request of the world's richest countries to provide 0.7% of their gross national income as aid and to crack down on tax havens. I wonder where we fit in? Now the stipulations: Banker's pay and bonuses will be strictly managed; a Financial Stability Board will monitor cooperation and establish an early warning mechanism for the financial system; leaders will seek a common approach to cleaning up bank's toxic assets; and last but not least, the world's poorest countries will receive extra aid. "This is the day that the world came together to fight back against the global recession, not with words, but with a plan for global recovery and for reform and with a clear timetable for its delivery." So are the words of Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Capitalism rules! Bankers unite! God bless the queen! Way-to-go to the U.S. of A! Now back to reality, where I see that here in the U.S. of A. jobless benefits have hit the highest levels in 26 years while the Ex-AIG CEO points fingers at poor management of the bailout. Round and round we go, where it stops, nobody knows. The bird songs once again become the focus of the moment as I realize how blessed my life is, alive and well in this little town in the Sacramento Valley where "For Sale" signs dot the landscapes yet small town values continue to exist as people reach out to help. All is good on the western front.

May your arms be far-reaching this day!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 3, 2009

Light surrounds the morning as another day is upon us. "This is a joint problem...and it requires a joint effort." as Obama pledges to re-build relations with Europe. And "...every nation bears responsibility for what lies ahead, especially now." And one more from Obama: "Even with the Cold War now over, the spread of nuclear weapons or the theft of nuclear material could lead to the extermination of any city on the planet." On the other side of the world, (here in the U.S. of A.), the news bits continuously re-hashed, criticized and analyzed the tapes of Michelle and the queen embracing one another. No worries as Buckingham Palace said it was a "mutual and spontaneous affection between the two." Go Michelle! Go Barack! Go World leaders! The time is now. Jobless rates in the U.S. are at the highest level since 1983, oil is tumbling, but many, many, many of you out there are taking steps to change the world...one action at a time.

Keep on keeping on...

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 5, 2009

“Acoustic Sunrise” streaming into my ears as I sip my first cup of coffee, allowing the music to soothe and comfort my morning.  The day prior spent watching Aaron, Jessica, and Karlie create a small garden in their backyard, toiling the earth, sowing the seeds, and providing precious drops of water to assure the seeds sprout quickly.  And yes, I helped, but the pleasure was all mine as I perceived the true essence of their family unit in action.  Precious indeed!  I am so very saddened by all of the senseless murders that have swarmed the headlines over the last few days  – policemen in Pittsburgh, PA, a family in Washington state, and innocent people in Binghamton, NY.  Each of these events is tragic yet expected in times like these. It is the result of resources lacking to support those who lose their jobs and are not offered counseling.  It is the result of stress and strain from being too far in debt and ‘no way out’ visible or forthcoming.  It is the result of cuts in mental and family health services.  It is the result of consumerism and greed and lack of trust and faith in the system.  It is the result of dropping through the cracks as services are lacking and funding drastically cut. As daughter Angie says: "I wonder if the human race is to earth what cancer is to cells." Unfortunately, yes. But, we must keep looking for the cure! Eyes and hearts wide open - there are a lot of people out there that need our help.

Enjoy every moment of your precious life this day.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 6, 2009

The golden hue highlighting the coastal mountain range to the east comforts me in knowing that the sun shall rise again! Glory, glory hallelujah! Sad news from Italy as people lost their lives in an earthquake today - something too familiar for San Francisco Bay Area residents who tend to ignore the possibilities, testing our fate in every waking moment through the simple action of living here. It seems there is a lot of pressure across the world - the Alaskan volcano spewing more ash, the rockets red blare across the Far East, pirates hijacking British ships in Taiwan, crackdowns on pillow fights in Detroit, and stiff competition for jobs as Obama speaks in proverbial tongues to the nation of Turkey. "Have you read the news today, o boy!" The sun has successfully achieved its ascent to the top of the morning as I bid adieu until tomorrow. I have another class to attend this morning and another day of living to celebrate!

God bless all who suffer across our world.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 7, 2009

Thick clouds envelope the morning sky as they ebb and flow high above the trees that sway in the light winds - looks like rain! Even so, the light is omniscient as night turns to morning and the rising sun peeks through the layer of clouds, creating gold and white patterns across the sky. Magnificent! The morning news not so magnificent as the death toll rises in Italy and state-sized blocks of ice continue disappearing in the Arctic. That means a warmer atmosphere across the globe as the balance is weakened and less sun is reflected away from our Mother Earth. What to do, what to do? I think we all know the answers. Less carbon, more oxygen!

Peace to you this day.

 

An Evening View - 04/08/09

The rising moon so full that the light escaped to surround itself and echo across the  night, sending messages of peace and cleansing, forgiveness and clarity to one who sat in quiet repose and witnessed another extraordinary moment in time.  Unfortunately, Mercury, the messenger of the gods, eluded me tonight, but tomorrow is another day.  Indeed it is.

Good night, world.  Hello Moon!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 8, 2009

Silver clouds with unique patterns surround the blue sky yet allowing room for the light of the sun to display its beautiful hues of gold as another Spring day is before us. Beautiful! Breathe deep before you step into the world - lots of sad news as you begin your day - or not, if you choose not to read it. Blessings to family members who lost loved ones in Alabama and today in California, to the Italian people as the body count continues to climb, and to the Israeli Jews who took time out of their day (and 28 years!) to bless the sun as it rose above the world. Boo to the Iranian president who plays "good cop, bad cop" by welcoming open dialogue with the U.S., yet charges an American journalist with espionage, and to North Korea for their pro-rocket rally. It is interesting to read the headlines - what to believe, what to truly care about, what is serious enough to take action against, and what is just fodder for the masses. And the answer is...all of the above. Take another deep breath - it is a beautiful world out there! Everything truly matters and nothing is truly important...but love is truly the answer.

God bless the elders and children of the world.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 9, 2009

I awaken to the sound of rain drops falling softly to the ground, the bird songs full of delight as bubbles form beneath the earth, pushing the worms to the surface where they are cast about like ships lost at sea. The early bird gets the worm! But, not always true when it comes to employment as new statistics show that even as new jobless claims dropped last week, "the total number of laid-off Americans receiving unemployment rose to 5.84 million from 5.75 million." (Don't you just love statistics!?!) And then there is the news from the banking industry where simple acts of greed and illusion remain omniscient yet unnoticed as shares surge and the stock market rallies, creating total joy and elation on Wall Street! But here on Main Street, "For Sale" signs remain deeply rooted in front yards, people continue to search for work, and many remain hungry and lost in the system - just as California prisons are ordered to release 55,000 inmates (out of the total population of 150,000!) onto the streets over the next three years, putting more and more stress on human services that are already lacking. The paradox continues! Today, I will constantly and consistently remind myself of the butterfly effect, remembering that the smallest action can create a world of difference. Now that's something worth thinking about!

Peace to all!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 10, 2009

The morning is a mixture of clouds and sunshine as the end of the week is upon us. For millions across the globe, today is considered a holy day. For others, it is a time for reflection and introspection. For many, it is a day to thank Mother Earth for her blessings, and for some, it is just another day. Whatever your belief, know that you are truly loved! My fondest Easter memories as a child are the sunrise service, the Easter bunny, and the egg hunts, of course. As an adult, I thoroughly enjoy a simple sermon on the beach at dawn; typically quite chilly, but rejuvenating to say the least. Nothing rejuvenating in the web-lines as the boxing gloves go on and Mr. Karl steps into the ring. But nothing is by chance and everything is planned, so grab your popcorn, take your seat, and enjoy the performance! (Or not.) Did you know that there is a $30 million prize to see who can be the first to deliver a greenhouse to the moon? The goal is to assure that future astronauts who land on the moon will be greeted with beautiful flowers. "Imagine a bright flower on a plant in a crystal clear growth chamber on the surface of the Moon, with the full Earth rising above the Moonscape behind it..." the words of Jane Poynter from Paragon Space Development Corporation. I think Ill leave you with that beautiful vision!

Prayers of peace across our world.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 13, 2009

Another amazing day as the light surrounds the morning after a full Easter holiday with outdoor activities, wonderful food and dessert, and just plain "hanging out" with family. Now back to our regularly scheduled program. Escalated violence in Somali as the U. S. Navy kills three pirates in their rescue of the captain held hostage by a band of pirates operating in the Gulf of Aden, north of Somalia. Point: “Obama's handling of the crisis showed a president who was comfortable in relying on the U.S. military, much as his predecessor, George W. Bush, did.” (AP White House Correspondent Jennifer Loven) Counter-Point: “From now on, if we capture foreign ships and their respective countries try to attack us, we will kill them," said Jamac Habeb, a 30-year-old self-proclaimed pirate, told The Associated Press by telephone from the pirate hub, Eyl.” Isn’t it wonderful to live in a country with a powerful war machine that “protects and serves” the world’s peoples! Indeed, a good move on the administration’s choice – one life saved is truly a good thing, but prayers for the families of those who lost their lives as absolutely nothing is worth celebrating in the Game of War. I hope you were able to witness the moon over the past few nights as it filled the nighttime sky, providing a clear path for those trying to find their way! Stay on the path and you will always find your way!

Happy Spring!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 13, 2009

Another amazing day as the light surrounds the morning after a full Easter holiday with outdoor activities, wonderful food and dessert, and just plain "hanging out" with family. Now back to our regularly scheduled program. Escalated violence in Somali as the U. S. Navy kills three pirates in their rescue of the captain held hostage by a band of pirates operating in the Gulf of Aden, north of Somalia. Point: “Obama's handling of the crisis showed a president who was comfortable in relying on the U.S. military, much as his predecessor, George W. Bush, did.” (AP White House Correspondent Jennifer Loven) Counter-Point: “From now on, if we capture foreign ships and their respective countries try to attack us, we will kill them," said Jamac Habeb, a 30-year-old self-proclaimed pirate, told The Associated Press by telephone from the pirate hub, Eyl.” Isn’t it wonderful to live in a country with a powerful war machine that “protects and serves” the world’s peoples! Indeed, a good move on the administration’s choice – one life saved is truly a good thing, but prayers for the families of those who lost their lives as absolutely nothing is worth celebrating in the Game of War. I hope you were able to witness the moon over the past few nights as it filled the nighttime sky, providing a clear path for those trying to find their way! Stay on the path and you will always find your way!

Happy Spring!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 15, 2009

A cool Wednesday as hump day is here !Not that it matters for the ranks of the unemployed whose numbers continue to grow as Obama speaks of "more job loss, more foreclosures, and more pain before it ends" and reports of doom and gloom for the Swiss banking industry fill the web-lines. I find it interesting that the cost of repairing an earthquake-devastated, Italian city is less than the Bear Stearns bailout and the tax breaks granted to the banking industry - a mere $29 billion on both counts! I suppose the cost of lives and history just don't quite hit the mark. Estimates of money spent on the bailouts thus far sways between $2 and $8 trillion -- and it ain't over until the fat man sings. Even Obama's practicality sets the tone as there are "no more pieces of the recovery puzzle." Think about that as you write your checks to the IRS today. On the other side of the coin, hooray for Spain who continues to investigate whether Bush administration officials violated the Geneva Convention with its waterboarding and interrogation tactics. The truth is out there!. And so is our Mother Earth, so get your happy face on and go for a walk!

And more peace, love and happiness!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 16, 2009

A warm, spring day is upon us as the sun streams consistently and faithfully to the earth, warming hearts and lighting the way for all who walk their life path. Today, one path I will take will be a co-rider on the "Meals on Wheels" route so I can understand the process, and begin my weekly delivery to shut-ins and those who are unable to do their own shopping. Exciting for one who never seemed to have the time to participate in giving back, even though we all know that time is always available, and the choices are all ours. Another path I will take today will be volunteering for a non-profit organization. Isn't that something! For one who spent her life in corporate America, it feels good to be able to do these things that many people across the world do without promotion or bragging (or writing about in a blog!). Warm and fuzzy feelings from the inside out for me even as I continue to counter-attack my stress-based, business-as-usual attitude and replace it with sheer joy and happiness from these experiences. It is a constant battle, and my family continues to remain patient as my de-compression continues. But, at least I am trying -- one step at a time.

God bless all who suffer across this great big world!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 17, 2009

A beautiful and warm day ahead as summer inches closer and closer with forecasts of 92 degrees on Sunday and 94 on Monday - yeow-za. ..."out there it's summer time...milk and honey days...I just gotta go and get back to the bay..." (Fever Tree, 1968) where coolness rules and fog is the answer! Wobble, wobble, wobble as Spain reverses it's torture investigation of the Bush Admininstration, Obama shines his light upon Cuba, and earnings rise for two major corporations. I survived the Meals on Wheels excursion and am looking forward to starting my own route next week. Ciao!

Keep on keeping on!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 20, 2009

A beautiful Spring weekend on the coast as fog surrounded us on Saturday as Sunday brought warm temperatures and blue skies, just in time to perform yard chores and bask in the glory of the day. Sitting on the top patio is like being in Monaco with its sweeping views of the ocean. The only thing missing are the yachts! Today, light winds are pushing the hot air about as the fog sits far off shore creating a beautiful horizon where the azure sea meets the blue as it decides if it will make its way to the coastline or take a break for a while. I am a bit slow myself as my body awakens to the morning. A full day ahead, yet time granted to be in this moment, now, as I witness the glory of our Mother Earth. Preferably, I can maintain this state of being with every step I take this day. My cup of coffee is perfect as I listen to the bird songs, the wind as it blows through the trees, and even the sounds of the commuters as they make their way to the walls of corporate America, or to school, or other places of work. How fortunate am I to have this time to just be here now. I pause to remember those who lost their loved ones in Columbine ten years ago. But, as I continue to scan the newsbytes, I also remember to read between the lines. Nothing is always as it seems! But, there is definitely a lot of ado about many things. Eyes wide open!

May your spirit soar far and wide!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 21, 2009

A good night's rest as the bedroom fan kept me cool and sensible as I soared through my dreams that have yet to be dissected at this moment in time. My goodness! Can it be true that the Iraq war contributed to our economic collapse?!? Can it be true that there is only $10b left in the bank bailout fund?!? Can it be true that GM and Chrysler will receive another $5.5b in loans?!? Can it be true that Brooke Shields is having problems aging?!? (I am so sorry to hear that one!) Monkey see, monkey do as Little Ben dumps his bowl of fruit into his cereal bowl after watching me cut a banana into mine. Eyes wide shut for our government and other world governments as they turn their heads and ignore the waterboarding tactics by our CIA and "Bushdom." Boo to our government for bringing a Somali, teenage pirate to court in the U.S. ( 2001 A Space Odyssey: Dr. Floyd: What's that? Chicken? Dr. Bill Michaels: Something like that. Tastes the same anyway.)

God bless the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 22, 2009

One more reason to celebrate our Mother Earth as "Earth Day" is being celebrated across the globe. "Pick your battles!" is the correct approach as there is very much to think about as our earth continues to suffer. You know it is true when the EPA finally admits that "greenhouse gases pose a threat to the public." Just like the Food and Drug Administration admitting that hot dogs and bacon are bad for you! Pick your battles, indeed! Will refineries ever be completely mandated to stop polluting our water systems? Will alternative fuels ever replace more than 5% of existing oil-based fuels? Will we ever stop producing oil-based chemicals? Will we ever stop using oil - period? Will we ever stop the oil-based game of War? Will our great, great-grandchildren be able to see the sunrise? (And, when the mountains tumble to the sea, will there really be you and me?!?) For every action, there is an opposite but equal reaction, so keep on trying. The sterling sky now full of blue and yellow and orange as the sun finds its spot above the world as we celebrate another glorious day of life on this amazing planet.

Walk ever so gently through this day!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 23, 2009

A nice break from extreme heat as temperatures become more reasonable and quite satiable compared to the past few days. I wonder what Little Ben is thinking as he sits quietly listening and watching the wind blow the trees (and the birds!) around. Perhaps it is because he realizes his inner world, but more probable that it is the ear muffs that he wears in practice for his next Monster Truck rally! The world is definitely heating up as Pakistan and Iraq continue with business as usual while here in the U.S. of A, more banking tactics are exposed, proving the alliance of the haves and the have-nots who 'rule the world.' I choose to be the master of my universe, even as I realize that in this reality, I am a mere cog in the wheel of capitalism, consumerism and control. I accept the truths of both, but only one truly matters and must always remain in focus. And now at this moment, I'm having a hard time focusing at all knowing that I must map out my Meals on Wheels route and get moving!

Peace to all!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 24, 2009

Spring is hard to recognize today as winter temperatures and cold winds appear to rule the day. No opportunity to watch the morning sunrise, but the light remains as I bear witness to a new day on Planet Earth. Savor every moment. Today is the Open House at the non-profit where I have been donating time and energy. I wish for a good turnout as so many in organizations like these give back so much to the community. Voting NO on Prop 1D and 1E are vital to the welfare of those who are less-fortunate, in a down-turn, or simply without mental, physical or monetary resources to take care of themselves, their children and their families. If those propositions pass, many will be in dire straits as non-profits will lose funding for much needed programs and services. Please think before you vote, and please, please, please vote NO on Prop 1D and 1E. Also, remember to give what you can today.

"Starving people don't buy clothes." (Quote from The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett)

 

Left Coast Evening View - April 26, 2009

Tonight, I prepare for tomorrow when I will celebrate my mother's birthday - the first day of many where I can no longer pick up the phone and call her, or send her an email, or know that she is in Florida, playing golf, socializing and stirring people's awareness to the goodness of this precious life. Knowing her so well, she will not want me to wallow for one minute, one hour, or at all on the day of her first birthday after her death. I will try to be strong, and in that strength, I will find peace and clarity in knowing that from all the people to choose from on this plane, I was blessed to have that amazingly talented, strong-headed, compassionate, artistic and honorable woman to call my Mother. As I sit here in the darkness and fight back tears, I can hear her voice, see her brilliant smile, sense her determination, and feel her compassion and love. I know she will be proud to hear our "hellos" as we commiserate and remember, celebrate and laugh a bit, without lament and regret, lullabies or sermons, and only a very few tears. Happy (early) Birthday, Mama Betty. I love you dearly.

Life is precious; loss non-existent; forever, now.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - An Evening View - April 27, 2009

The day has ended and I recognize my heroic effort at fighting back those tears of sorrow and joy. But now, the dark is mine, the music is mine, and the time is mine to reflect as I listen to an old CD from way back when. These biblical words have been quoted for century upon century, sung by church-goers, crusaders, peace activists (Pete Seeger) and musicians (The Byrds) who continually attempt to keep the words alive. Tonight, the words are very clear to me as they remind me of how precious our lives are, and how many continue to suffer across this great big world - from futures past and current, but somehow forever remain the same. Why is that? The answer roars in the waves that touch the shore, in the wind that blows through the trees, and from the words that fall from the mouths of babes – the answer itself the thread that binds us. We are all connected, and until all of us are part of the whole, none of us will be whole. Anyway, enjoy the lyrics, I’m sure you remember them.

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time for every purpose, under heaven

A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time for every purpose, under heaven

A time to build up,a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones, a time to gather stones together

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time for every purpose, under heaven

A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace, a time to refrain from embracing

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time for every purpose, under heaven

A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time to love, a time to hate
A time for peace, I swear it's not too late.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 27, 2009

Today the sun shines brightly as I awaken to remember that this day will be a mix of sadness and joy, memories and moments, and smiles but no tears (!), as we remember our loss, yet realize, faithfully, that Mother is just a thought away and always within us. Happy Birthday, Mother. You are greatly missed and your life so honored. Scanning the newsbytes, I can just hear her saying, “This earth is going to hell in a hand basket!” The fear of a pandemic is tempered by Obama’s “trust in our scientific and medical community” even as border patrols are engaged and the world’s leaders react. Hmmmmmm….something evil this way comes. But, keep the faith. "There is nothing to fear but fear itself." Control begets fear, fear begets violence, violence begets war, war begets wealth, wealth begets control, and round and round we go. Besides a multitude of learnings, my mother truly showed me in her dying process how free we truly are. Live while you're living - you are free to think and born free. Free, free, free are we!

Happy birthday, Mama Betty!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - An Evening View - April 28, 2009

A sliver of the moon reflects upon itself as it shines brightly beside the tall palm tree that steadily sways in the valley winds.  Another day on planet earth completed as my bed beckons me to lay upon pillows of down, wrapped in blankets of warmth among its gentle folds that secure my body as I sleep and journey among those who have a need to visit in my arrested state for reasons yet unknown until revealed in the morning light.

Sweet dreams!

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 29, 2009

And, here I am, up before the sun as the world begins to create a palette of colors among the sterling sky. My dreams, on the other hand, went swiftly away with my morning stretch! Good morning, world! The panic has begun as "Egypt orders slaughter of all pigs in the country over swine flu fears" as the "U.S. reports a swine flu death" and the World Health Organization "mulls" over the panic alert text. They must be careful with their wording so the masses don't revolt and cause a blip in the machine. But, seriously, please do something and do it right! God bless the little child from the State of Texas and all who have lost family members as the numbers continue to grow. Who is on the chopping block today? Let's see, we have the presidents of B of A and Citigroup shaking in their boots (but not really, as either one would receive millions in their exit packages) as the Republicans fume in anticipation of yet another Democrat added to the house as the scale tips towards victory for the party! Party in the House! But, serious days ahead as the news will continue to create panic as numbers rise and the epidemic, albeit, pandemic, spreads. The CIA reports (as of July 2006,) that on average, "The world's population is 6,525,179,624 , with a birth rate estimated at 20.05 births/1,000 population and the death rate at 8.67 deaths/1,000 population. That gives us 358,192 births and 154,889 deaths as the daily average." I wonder if that number takes war into account!?! Hmmmm, since the statistics come from the CIA, probably not. So, as the panic continues, be smart, don't believe everything you read, but pay attention, take needed measures, remove the panic and most of all, live while you're living! It's a beautiful day out there!

God bless all who suffer across our world.

 

Ann of the Left Coast - April 30, 2009

The morning brilliant as the earth turns a bit closer towards the sun as it begins its journey from day to night. Even the winds are a bit calmer today, but not true here on planet earth where countries are forced to re-map their boundaries as ice shelves fall, and pandemic fears rise, and we teeter between what are natural conditions as opposed to dirty footsteps left upon our earth by people-kind. One piece of good news is that England has stopped all combat operations in Iraq. Please, please, please let it be a sign of things to come across our world. In the meantime, make sure you keep those hands clean!

Peace to all across the world.