Cracker Jack Christmas

Christmas 1965 …maybe ’66 … The year of the great Cracker Jack Christmas Caper! (Things are not always as they seem)

Last night I went to see ‘A Christmas Story’ at The Springer Opera House. While I’ve watched the movie many times, I’ve never seen the stage version. It was excellent! There is a lot of talent in Columbus thanks to the folks and programs at The Springer … but I digress …

I can identify with Ralphie as a kid, ... There’s always that point where we realize that the world, in particular media, with  its showmanship and use as an advertising and imaging medium is full of exaggeration, untruths, … and well … lies.  It happened to Ralphie when he finally got his “Little Orphan Annie Secret Circle Decoder Ring” that would give him the cool password to the secrets of the world… The secret circle code was … “Be sure to drink your Ovaltine” …  … Poor kid …

With me, … It was Cracker Jacks … What could be better than “molasses-flavored, caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts”? And it came with a TOY! The TV commercials were great … they consisted of a funny man, with kids singing, eating Cracker Jacks, and having their dreams come true! And they got a FREE TOY! … I was sold! … For weeks, whenever anyone asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I told them, with great fervor and anticipation … CRACKER JACKS!

I should point out that I had never had Cracker Jacks before, but I had friends that had, mostly because they would have a little toy soldier, or a decoder ring that came in a Cracker Jack box! And what could be better than “molasses-flavored, caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts” … and they came with a TOY!

I remember that it was one long December. When you’re under 12 years old, December is the looong-est month, even longer than May, … (the last month of the school year)

Well, at last, Christmas day arrived. As usual, my brother woke me up way before the sun had even thought about appearing in the morning sky. We weren’t allowed to go into the den, (That’s where the tree and presents were) until our parents were awake, Dad started a fire, and Mom turned on Christmas Music. I was afraid Mom and Dad would live up to the threats of sending our TOYS back to Santa if we didn’t obey the rules at Christmas!

The Stage was finally set, … lights, … music, … we entered a Christmas wonderland full of presents, and STUFF! A quick scan around the room revealed, … No Cracker Jacks! I surmised that the Cracker Jacks were neatly wrapped in one of these lovely presents … I was soon submerged in a pile of Christmas wrapping paper and TOYS! … Still no Cracker Jacks … ☹ …

But, … I had seen enough Christmas movies  to know that Santa always saved the best for last … I looked towards the fireplace at our Stockings, … hung with care, … lovingly made by my Grandmother for each of her Grandkids, … they were all filled with … something, … and mine was just the right size for … a box of Cracker Jacks!  I jumped up, waded across the sea of unwrapped Christmas wrapping, grabbed my stocking and pulled out, … a Box of Cracker Jacks!

My first instinct was to rip open the box, and instantly ingest morsels of “molasses-flavored, caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts”, that were hiding a super, plastic, fighting soldier, or maybe a decoder ring! …

 But No … I knew this moment had to be savored and appreciated. I studied that box, I read every word on it,  “Prize Inside”… “The Original Cracker Jack” … “molasses-flavored, caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts” … The picture of the kid in a sailor’s suit, … (I already had a sailor’s hat, …  I wore it often…)

I slowly and carefully opened the top of the box, … poured some of the lovely caramel coated popcorn and peanuts in my hand and put them in my mouth. … Hmmmm ….

Something was wrong, … The luxurious sugary treat I expected wasn’t there? … It really didn’t taste very good, … I must have gotten a bad peanut or something, I spit them out, put some more into my hand, … and then to my mouth, … … … YUK! This may have been the worst candy I had ever had! I gave it one more try … … Double YUK! My eyes began to water, it became hard to breath, … how could this be?

Wait! … I at least still had the prize inside. I dumped the box out and found my Free Toy! … It was a baseball card! … Well, … not really a baseball card, it was smaller than a real one, it had the sailor guy on it, … It said “Take me out to the ball game” on it. Exciting, Huh?...

That was all I could take, I burst into tears, … my family was dumbfounded, … as was I … Mom gave me a hug, some awesome sugar cookies, a glass of milk, and pointed out all the real toys and treasures I was fortunate to have, … and she was right!

I learned a lot that Christmas, and sadly, grew up a bit. Looking back on it, I enjoyed visiting with my cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Grandma, and “Gramps”. I now know that it’s not about the presents, … It’s the PEOPLE. … I don’t think I’ve ever really had a bad Christmas, … I’ve been blessed with Love and Family all of my life …

“Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas … Perhaps … means a little bit more” The Grinch

“I will start anew, I will make amends, And I will make quite certain that the story ends

On a note of hope, On a strong amen, And I'll thank the world, And remember when …

I was able to begin again!”  -‘Scrooge’ 1970

 Did I tell you about the time the dogs ate the turkey, and we had to eat at a Chinese restaurant, and the waiters and cooks sang Christmas Carols? … Fa Ra Ra Ra Ra, … Ra Ra Ra Ra! …. From Ralphie, The Grinch, Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Mr. Potter, George Bailey,  and Me, … Merry Christmas Ya’ll !

Oh! ... That Laugh!

Oh!  … That laugh!

I’ll never forget it. I remember playing with my cousins, while my Aunts and Uncles, and Parents would go for a boat ride … they called it a Cocktail Cruise  … and we could hear that laugh, all the way across the lake. We always knew where Aunt Jerry was because we could hear her laughing. She had a full-on distinctive, “Aunt Jerry” laugh! … Truth be told, … We knew when we heard that laugh, that our parents were coming back, and we should stop doing whatever nonsense WE were up to!

Last April, we went down to Florida to celebrate “J-ma’s”  90th birthday. (Her grandkids call her J-ma, and she was proud of that!) When we got to the apartment complex clubhouse where the party was, we didn’t know where to go, since we had never been there. Then … I heard her laugh and knew right where she was!

We had a great time visiting with J-ma and several  of my cousins. Telling old stories and laughing out loud  … Aunt Jerry has passed her laugh to her kids (my cousins) in a remarkable way. Now, when they laugh, they sound just like her! … It’s not just its uniqueness or the sound and volume, it’s the full-on Joy of it, the contagious enthusiasm, living in the moment, not taking anyone or anything too seriously. The older we get, … the more we go through, … the longer we live our lives,  the more we should remember Aunt Jerry’s laugh, and her love of Life …

Now don’t get me wrong, Aunt Jerry could get on to us when we were bad, but then she could give a smile or a hug, or a laugh, … as good as Gold.

Aunt Jerry was the last of that generation of McClure’s … what an incredible life they had, living through depressions, wars, good times and bad. They enjoyed kids, grandkids, and great grandkids, … they loved us all, … and each other … and they laughed …

(Joseph Watson McClure)

Pegs

Pegs … Happy Birthday Big Sister!

I don’t remember who or where it was, but several years ago someone asked me about my first memory as a child. Whenever I push my mind as far back as I can go, … I land … sitting on the dining room floor in the little house on Cooper Avenue. I’m not sure how old I was, just old enough to sit up, and laugh with my big sister, as she taught me to play “patty cake”.  I can still hear her : “patty cake, patty cake, bakers man” …  She was probably 6 or 7 years old. I wasn’t very good at “patty cake” but she didn’t mind, we were laughing and having a good time.

Looking back, brings up other memories, growing up in the Overlook neighborhood. There’s the time she got in trouble for riding on a motorcycle with “that boy”!  Or her first date, I don’t remember who the lucky guy was, but after he came to the door, met my parents, withstood the standard interrogation from them, and as they turned to walk to the car parked out front, my brother yells out door …”Peggy Loves You!” As I recall she didn’t appreciate that AT ALL! … She probably still doesn’t …

I remember going to Lake Rabun in the 60’s. I was 10 or 11 years old, she was a 60’s teenager, We would go to Hall’s Boat House to “hang out”, play pinball, etc. … Peggy was in charge of the jukebox, … She would always play “Like a Rolling Stone” Bob Dylan … Simon and Garfunkel’s “I Am A Rock” and any song by the Beatles. One time she invited a boyfriend to come to the lake … My Dad made him sleep in the Basement!

She gave me my first album … “Insight Out” by the Association … I still know every word of every song … I knew she gave it to me because she didn’t care for their music … but I loved it!

My Big Sister is an amazing,  determined, loving and stubborn fighter …

She had twins several years ago, there were many complications, one twin died at birth, Richard Johnathan Moore. The other had many mental  and physical problems, Mark Eugene Moore Jr, “Rusty” … She fought to save Rusty, taking care of him, taking care of his every need for  3 years, until she had to let him go …

She’s always been a fighter … She’s been fighting cancer for 16+ years now … 16+ years of assorted cancer treatments have taken their toll … she’s still fighting … Happy Birthday Pegs … I Love You …

Christmas Blues

Christmas Blues

Chestnuts are roasting and so am I,   This Christmas movie is making me cry

Why, oh why, oh why, oh why?         Do I get the Blues at Christmas?

Christmas time makes me Happy and Sad,  I cry and laugh when the Grinch is so Bad

This year-old egg nog smells like cheese,  The Christmas tree is making me sneeze

I can hear the jolly sounds of Ho Ho Ho!   Yet still I’m looking for a chance of snow

Yule tide carols with jingle bells ringing,   seem off key when I hear myself singing

Chestnuts are roasting and so am I,     This Christmas movie is making me cry

Why, oh why, oh why, oh why?        Do I get the Blues at Christmas?

So why does my heart feel so forlorn.  I’m supposed to be Happy! Jesus is born!  

I cry for loss, loneliness, and ends,  I cry for the good times My Love and Friends,

I cry for rain, as it washes me away,  I cry for blue skies on a beautiful day

When the night is long, I cry for the sun, I cry for the new day when it’s begun

Chestnuts are roasting and so am I,   This Christmas movie is making me cry

Why, oh why, oh why, oh why?     Do I get the Blues at Christmas?

Cry to be grateful, cry to be sad, The Christmas Holidays ain’t so bad

Sing with your friends, a song of cheer, soon you can sing,  Happy New Year!

Chestnuts are roasting and so am I,  This Christmas movie is making me cry

Why, oh why, oh why, oh why?          Do I get the Blues at Christmas?

(Joseph W McClure @ 2024)

Quiet

Quiet …

It’s so quiet outside right now… it’s been this way for at least an hour… it’s pretty spooky really  … No crows crowing,  no songbirds singing,  no trucks on the highway,  no planes flying overhead,  no wind, no crickets,…

I live in Harris County,  my neighbors aren’t taking their usual Sunday afternoon target practice, no blowers blowing, even the next-door neighbors’ rooster isn’t crowing, no dogs barking… it’s eerie  … Really!

 It’s a cloudy day , but if I look up there are no clouds  … just white-grayish sky …

Oh, … slight breeze … the leaves falling  … sound like rain  …

There’s an angry squirrel out there now … jumping through the trees

 Ugh! … Now the crows have returned  … not my favorite … and the cars  …

They are aware of my moment of silence  … and have come to destroy it … bastards …

Mountains afire!

Mountains on Fire!  Yellow leaves touched by the sunlight are ablaze with all of the beauty and soul nourishment that only thousands of individual quaking brilliant yellow patches of Love and Peace that God and Mother Nature can deliver.

Dark green evergreen pines contrast this fire with staid strength. As benefactors of trust, outlining the boundaries of each family of aspens, as they count to 10 and burst forth with all of the fire and beauty that can be brought into this sometimes sad and sometimes joyful season of our lives. The highs get higher and the lows seem lower.

And even in the dead of winter We and the Aspens survive, waiting for the sun to once again peak over the mountain and bring it’s warmth, color and yellow flame back to those willing to stop, listen,  and feel in the depths of our souls, hearts and and psyches.

So beautiful from afar, and so rugged when entered through the boundaries created by man. To touch the cool softness of a moss covered rock, and know that it may roll out from under your foot and send you tumbling . Can you trust this beautiful safe fiery heaven to bring you home again? Can you find a safe place to rest and absorb the wonder and warmth of this place, that God has created just for your soul? For your peace, for your, heart, for your inner church, your sanctuary. Thank you … Life … for showing me this glimpse of wonder and fire. To remind me there is always Peace and Love and Beauty to be found. It is stored in the center of my soul, that I may survive the grey winter ahead…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 18 - Tupelo, Dooley and Elvis!

Tupelo, Dooley, and Elvis,

August 16, 1977 …  I had just moved out of my parents house into my new apartment, I had a job and my new found freedom, my mom cried when I left the house, 3 minutes away from where I’d lived the past 22 years of my life, (except for in and out during college.) Someone was knocking on my door, persistently. I opened the door and met my across the hall neighbor, he was very close to crying, watery eyes, head down …

 “Are you okay?” I asked.

“Naw, man, I can’t believe it! …  Elvis is dead!”

“What … how?”

“They found him dead at Graceland, that’s all I know”

“Sorry dude, … here … let’s drink a beer for Elvis …”

“Naw … no … I’ve got to call my Mom, this is gonna break her heart …”

That’s how I got the news about Elvis. He was supposed to play in concert in Columbus about two weeks after that. Instead we played a live album of his on the radio the night  of the now canceled concert … Complete with  Scott Miller adding his impersonation of Elvis saying “Thank ya, thank ya Colum-mus”.

As we were passing through Tupelo Mississippi on our way out west, we decided to visit the Birthplace of the King himself. Apparently, after Elvis had become a gazillionaire, He purchased the two-room house on the wrong side of the tracks,  and most of the land around it to make a nice park for the folks who lived there. Now there’s his house, a nice park, and a museum. Plus plenty of parking for tour buses and tourists.

We learned a lot about Elvis’ childhood and his life. I didn’t know Elvis had a twin brother who died at birth, or that he came in fifth in a song contest when he was ten years old. He stood in a chair to reach the microphone.

Spending a few hours in the presence of Elvis’ costumes, posters, sunglasses, life size cardboard stand ups, t-shirts, jewelry, coasters, key rings, socks, shoes, music, can be intoxicating. I wanted one of each! Dooley was particularly interested in Nipper, the RCA dog. He wanted some Elvis treats, and I developed  a strong craving for a Jelly Donut!  😊

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 18 - On the Road in The US of A!

The adventures of Dooley and Me – Part 17

Life on the road in the US of A!

As Dooley and I get ready to head out west again, we’re packing and planning our route!

Last year we took a more northern route across the country as we were headed initially to Boise, Idaho.

We headed across the US of A in my new Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Dooley had a new foldable crate which made it much easier to set him up with a nice comfy, familiar bed as we traveled the 2500 miles to Boise, then down to Telluride Colorado for a couple of weeks, and then a couple weeks heading down to the Texas Hill country and the Kerrville Welcome Home Festival.

We took a north-ish route up through Memphis, St Louis, Kansas City, Southern Nebraska, Southern Wyoming, Northern Utah to Boise. We spent a lot of time on Interstate 80 traveling west, almost a thousand miles traveling through what could easily be called the middle of nowhere. Southern Nebraska and Wyoming provide a different, rugged country, … at times scenic for its rugged beauty.  I’ve learned to appreciate some country that’s has no or little vegetation. It could be said …  it’s SO NOT PRETTY that it’s uniquely beautiful.

A thousand miles worth of unique beauty and very few exits can make a long trip…  at least this time I didn’t run out of gas … (Lesson learned a few years ago, In Wyoming, Nebraska, Dakota’s, …  NEVER pass up a gas station if you have less than 2/3 a tank of gas 😊)

However, 2500 miles in four or five days takes it’s toll. And is bound to have its share of ups and downs. For instance … Rawlins, Wyoming … one thousand miles from Boise on I-80 … Two hotel/motels, a gas station, and a Walmart. What else could we need? …  An HDMI cable to stream something on the TV, since there was no cable tv at the hotel. (but there was cell service)

 So I took my brand new Grand Wagoneer (with about 2,000 miles on it) to get some gas and go to Walmart and grab an HDMI cable … Remember those big YELLOW cement bases Walmart puts around the base of their light poles in the parking lot? You know, they’re just low enough so that you might not see them if you’re in a big car next to them … They do a great job protecting the light pole … they’re not so good for your car … (and yes, lots of yellow paint on my car, … looked like I had hit a school bus!)

Labor Day weekend in Rawlins, Wyoming … not much going on … impossible to find a body shop or mechanic … I managed to crowbar my fender out from my wheel and limp the last thousand miles into Boise.  The dealership there said it would be a 3 month wait before they could even start on it ….Hmmm …

Then I noticed a brand-new Grand Wagoneer in the parking lot. It was pretty much my only option if I was going to finish the rest of our trip, and yes, the dealership knew that … We finally agreed on a deal … (I paid their price) ☹

So now It’s that time of year again! Time to head west to find cooler altitudes, attitudes, and adventures! We’re going to take I-40 out this time. More population, gas stations, Walmarts, construction, traffic jams … and adventures!

Next: Tupelo, Dooley, and Elvis! (and Nipper?)

Eating Icons

Having grown up in Columbus, I can think of several eating establishments that  stood the test of time during my 68 years here. I remember my parents going to The Villanova on Victory drive. I’m told the Villanova introduced Columbus to Pizza back in the 50’s. I don’t recall eating there, I was very young then. The Villanova’s no longer around, but their legacy lives on at the Jones’ Children’s many restaurants around town.

I can mention several places from back in the day that are out of business now. Shakey’s Pizza, Shoney’s Big Boy, The Varsity, The Krystal on Wynnton Road… Ms. Shirley would let us go downstairs and use the bathroom when we’d show up at 2am, the Linwood Lunchroom… Mrs. Weaver made the best hamburger steak ever! I worked at The Red Roof on Hamilton Road as a teenager, flipping burgers and fries, they had an awesome steak sandwich.

There are some that are still going, even though they have moved around the city some. Country’s Barbecue, (now the home of Mrs. Weaver’s hamburger steak!) The Speakeasy, Minnie’s, The Goetchius house is back.

And then there’s Deorio’s Pizza, right across from Wickham’s Outdoor World. (Later becoming Outdoor World) I couldn’t count the number of times we’d run across the street and get a Willie’s special. Now Willie and JoAnn have passed, Deorio’s has been closed for the past 7 Years, and now has recently reopened, right around the corner from their former location. And Sue’s back! Running around the new Deorio’s keeping everybody straight and giving good reunion hugs!

Certainly, one of my favorites for many, many, many years; I have to mention Dinglewood Pharmacy. I know people from my parents’ generation, that grew up in Columbus and remember Lieutenant Stevens when THEY were teenagers.

I practically grew up there. I’d go in as a kid and order a cherry milkshake, and a hot dog with mayonnaise and ketchup, and catch hell from the staff, who would tell me those combinations didn’t exist! Lieutenant, Mary, John, then TP, and Ernestine would always fuss at us when we blew our straw wrappers all over the store. As I grew up and developed ‘better’ tastes, I settled into scramble dogs with “2 wee-nees, cheese, and everything but onions.”

 Dinglewood has had different owners, over the past 100 years, from the Wall family to Terry Hurley, who became a good friend. Terry and Lieutenant and I used to go downtown to The Loft, hoist a few cold ones,  and listen to David Ragsdale and Professor X. (David went on to tour with Kansas for several years, the last time I saw him was at Dinglewood.) I even did their radio commercials in the late 90’s and early 2000’s. Terry recently passed, I miss him, and the other good folks I’ve known there.

Now my kids and grandkids carry on the traditions of their ‘Grandpa’. When Grandson Landon walks in, they know what he wants! (scrambled dog, no pickles, no cheese, no onions, CRACKERS ONLY, and a chocolate milkshake) The past few years Dinglewood has been under the expert watch of Kellie Oliver, Terry’s daughter, along with Wanda, Cheyenne, “T”, and Tony.  They don’t give me a hard time anymore. (I guess they respect their elders) …

This is just a brief summary of my memories and thoughts. In the interest of brevity, and a slipping memory … I know I left out several good places. I’m sure you have your own favorites and thoughts … Feel free to comment and share yours. Remember, it’s the differences and experiences between us that make us … who we are separately … and stronger together … Life Happens Y’all!

Fear

Fear

For about two weeks now, we’ve had an additional pet!  He (the sex has not yet been determined) has been living/hiding/sleeping in different places. Mostly in my study and the master bedroom. Dooley (my dog) sniffs at it occasionally but doesn’t seem to mind much. I’ve been pretty surprised that he’s survived this long since we haven’t fed him or given him water. We affectionately call him “LEE-ZARD- LEE-ZARD”.

Yes, I’ve been trying to catch him,  (in a humane manner of course) for two weeks now, so I could return him to his home outside. But this little green fellow is quick! … and scared … I have decided several times that eventually he would be discovered, … stiff and dried up under a piece of furniture.

Every time he dashes under a piece of furniture, where I can’t find him or get to him, I would think to myself, and, actually began telling him … “I’m trying to help you, I want to take you home. Don’t be so scared! Let me help you!” But he would run away, time after time.

I remember my kids going through that phase, “Leave me alone! I can do it myself!” And now I hear myself saying the same thing. Kids want to prove they’re growing up. I want to prove I’m not that old! 😊 Yes, I’m afraid of getting old, but then I’m not looking forward to the alternative either.

I think maybe LEE-ZARD is smarter than I thought, he just peeked out at me. Has he been reading over my shoulder?  Shhhh … He’s in the corner now, … maybe I can catch him   …    …  …   …   …  NOPE!

I can think of people and situations that we encounter that mean to help , but we’re too scared (or proud) to accept. We’re often afraid of dentists, doctors, nurses, hospitals, MRI machines, needles ...  Hip replacements, the first one, … the second one I looked forward to!  … Open Heart Surgery,  glad I did, but … never want to do that again!😊

Coaches, teachers, old people, young people, people who are different, policemen, soldiers, enclosed spaces, preachers.   … songwriters? … Ah … not so scary. Unless you’re a LEE-ZARD!

I should mention, some fears, may be healthy. Fear of jumping off of a bridge, fear of a car wreck, fear of poisonous snakes, fear of wasps. I’m scared of: phone calls from “Potential Spam”,  politicians, pundits, lawyers and car salesman on tv that yell at me, … and others …

Wait! … He’s poking out his head again, … I think maybe he’s getting hungry, or weak … careful …   …    …  …    got him! 😊

Now all he has to worry about … is that snake outside …

The Coffee Shop

Coffee Shop

Funny how Life Happens when you don’t expect it. We stopped in Valdosta, Georgia, on the way down to Florida and decided to stay downtown instead of near the interstate. Nice little historic hotel called The McKey in a typical southern downtown, with a beautiful old courthouse, complete with statues, Massive old oak trees, Memorials, Plaques, etc, etc.

Next morning I decided to get a fancy cup of coffee and something sweet to eat before heading down interstate 75. There was one right downstairs called Gud Coffee. (no, that’s not a spelling error, I don’t know how to put a  –  over the u!) I’ve never spent much time in a coffee shop in the morning. I do the drive through cause I’m in a hurry.

What a new experience for me! I didn’t know this culture existed! It reminds me of night clubs and discos back in the 70’s and 80’s! Mostly young folks meeting their friends , sitting at their favorite tables, saying hello, also meeting new friends of friends.

When I got there about 9am, there were just a few people there, scattered about, relatively quiet, laptops, some headphones. I figured the busy time must be earlier in the day. You could tell the difference between the social folk and the not social folk, mostly by the headphones and the seating choice. Some facing the wall or the window, others choosing the couch type group seating.

People began showing up, slowly at first, then I realized that the place had come alive. The social folk were arriving, the line at the order counter was getting longer , the coffee makers, (I guess I should call them Baristas) were moving faster, almost like, … well maybe because …  the caffeine was kicking in!

I was feeling like a real outsider, until I pulled out my laptop. Then I fit right in!

As an ‘Observer’, I love watching this unfold. There’s the friendly young lady, with her hair up on in a pony tail on top of her head, and her sunglasses perched perfectly on top , she picked a spot on the couch and seemed to know everyone who walked in, complete with hugs and hello’s. Some others in the corner with their headphones on, I’m not sure who they were communicating with. There’s the guy with the backpack who is also quite friendly with everyone, talking about the church youth gathering he attended the night before.

Mostly folks dressed very casually, shorts, t-shirts, flip flops. Then the young businessman, coat and tie, in a hurry to get to work, but checking out the ladies in the group seating areas.

There were nerds, old folks like me, the business lady in a suit with her phone tucked between her shoulder and her ear, the entire time she was there, while she was ordering, paying, and drinking her coffee. (how do people do that?) I was amazed that the patrons were as interesting and varied as the coffees and smoothies available! (I’m still not too sure about that peanut butter raspberry smoothie I had) It’s like I went to another country, except they were mostly speaking English. Lots of people coming in and going out. Getting their wake-up caffeine, and on their way, others are there to socialize. Students studying and some just watching, like me.

It's interesting to me, how we can get into our own habits, schedules and routines, and not realize that Life Happens, in different ways and in different places. No wonder, that we realize and identify the world from our own perspective, because of the shows we watch, people we know, news we pay attention to, the places we go.

Go somewhere different, change things up, put on some flip flops, or hiking boots; go hang out at a Coffee Shop, or a gym, or the woods, or a bar, or try yoga!  … Or do them all!

Funerals

Funerals

It’s happening again … still … It’s happening more and more as I get older. You know what I mean …

I just got back from Florida, attending my Aunt Emily’s funeral. (my mom’s sister) She was a wonderful aunt. Always positive and smiling… She raised an awesome family, lived through many challenges,  she lived a good life. She’ll be missed by lots of friends and family, in Florida and across the country. I’ll miss her too. Family is important.  I become more aware of this daily.

We told many old stories, recalled sweet memories, and fun ones. One ongoing tradition, maintained throughout the years between my Aunt Emily and Uncle Ed was our fierce loyalty to our Alma maters and the Georgia/Florida game. The winner always displayed  ‘good sportsmanship’  by calling the other, and expressing ‘condolences’  for the losing team 😊

I think one thing all of us said many times this past weekend was “We need to get together like this, when there’s no funeral involved.”   We used to get together for weddings, and reunions, … and births and deaths. But as generations leave us, as the years pass, and now too many of my generation …  Well …  I think it was Lewis Grizzard who said, “Elvis is dead and I don’t feel so good myself.”

     I’ll also miss Larry, who introduced me to a new drink called a Tequila Sunrise at a frat party at UGA.

     Jack, who served his city and the advertising business in Columbus.

     Mike, a talented writer/businessman/entrepreneur who shared his wisdom to many fighting cancer.

     Murray, family man and husband to a very dear friend of mine.      

     Rick M, talented musician and friend to me and pretty much everybody in Columbus.

     Rick W,  talented writer/songwriter/musician I wish I had known better.

     Terry, who sent me a cherry milkshake along with my prescription of pain pills when I had my tonsils out at 33 years old.

     Ralph, Medal of Honor recipient and an inspiration to thousands of soldiers.

And many, many, more … The list keeps growing … and we’re powerless to stop it…

Life is short …  Let’s not … wait for the funeral  … to enjoy our friends and relations.

Reunions

Reunions

I watched a movie last night called Last Vegas. It could have well been written by someone watching me a few weeks ago. The movie was almost as hilarious as that weekend. (I highly recommend watching it)

The last weekend in June, I joined 15-20 former fraternity brothers at a campground in North Georgia. We had all attended North Georgia College (now The University of North Georgia) somewhere between 1965 and 2000. I transferred to UGA my junior year but have maintained several friendships through the years. Basically, we sat around and told old stories. (some older than others)

Let me also say that the majority of these brothers went into military service after graduating. North Georgia College was/is a Military College. Therefore, there was a heavy concentration of “Type A” personalities. Majors, Colonels, Generals, Army, Navy, Marines, etc, etc. They ALL thought they were in charge! (Just imagine, all Generals, no Privates) It was fun to watch!

So we fished, and drank, told stories, and drank, cooked meat, and drank, ate meat, and drank. There was a lot of talk about finding Bigfoot. (as I recall) Fortunately, we didn’t look very hard …   There have been some searches in the past 😊

When we get together, we tend to think we’re younger than we are. At least this year, no one was taken to the hospital!

I’ve been working on a song called ‘Get off my Lawn!’ I have had major inspiration from this group…

Eventually, some settled into real conversations, about the past , the present, the future …  A lot of these guys have seen and participated in live conflicts around the world. They have served their country proudly, bravely, with honor. I admire and respect these guys. I enjoy their since of humor and “Joi d’ vivre”.  I’m proud to know them.

All of us didn’t go into the Armed Services after graduation, myself included. But we all GREW UP in Dahlonega, Georgia, at North Georgia College. We learned about leadership, honor, discipline, honesty. We learned life lessons that remain true to this day.

But most importantly,  …. We remain true friends…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me - Part 16 - July 4th

The 4th

Happy 4th of July everyone! Dooley and I had a good hike around Tallulah Gorge this morning. We noticed lots of different breeds of dogs also walking with their humans. Little ones, big ones, long hairs, short hairs, Pugs, poodles, and doodles. German shepards, Irish setters, English bulldogs, Rottweilers, Coonhounds, all happy to be alive, wagging their rear ends, sniffing, drinking water, peeing and pooping. Living life and enjoying the day.

I began to notice, … the same was true of the humans being led by their canines. They’re all different shapes, sizes, colors, long hairs and no hairs. Instead of wagging tails, (although there were a few of those) there were smiling faces, families, singles and doubles. And yes, peeing and pooping! (Long line at the bathrooms  :)

There was the Mom from Florida, with four kids including one teenage boy who kept insisting that they go down and up the 1,099 stairs into the heart of the gorge. I had stopped and given them directions earlier in the day, so the Mom looked to me for advice. I told her that it was definitely strenuous, take your time, rest a lot. (I have done it several times, it’s definitely not easy) She said “I’m from Florida, I’m not used to all this up and Down!”

A group of teenage girls, who were laughing and giggling and looking at their phones. I couldn’t tell what they were saying, as I got closer, I realized they were speaking a language I couldn’t even identify. Which is probably true for me listening to most teenage girls these days …

Grandpas and grandmas taking grandkids hiking, showing them this amazing place trying to keep them away from the edge, the kids exclaiming “whooooa” in amazement.

What a Great Day! People and puppies of all different nationalities, backgrounds, religions, colors, celebrating Independence Day in the United States of America!

From California, to Texas, to Florida, Massachusetts to Oregon. Regardless of our differences, Let’s all be grateful, to live in such a great place. A place where our differences, can also be our strengths…

Dot Day

Dot Day

It was a typical summer day at the Springer Opera House, Home of the Springer Theatre Academy. Kids arriving for another day of fun, learning many things;  ‘Theatre’.  Acting, singing, dancing, celebrating life through art. Or as they put it: “Life skills through stage skills”.

But today was a little different. Today was  “Dot Day”. Some kids were wearing Dots on their t-shirts and clothes, a tradition on Dot Day. But even Dot Day was different this time. All of Dot McClure’s Children, Grandchildren, and Great grandchildren, were invited to join in on the festivities. We toured The Springer and sat in on some classes. Some of us were interviewed in a discussion of the history of The Springer and the Springer Theatre Academy.

We got to participate in ‘Salutations’, a movement exercise to Pachelbels Canon in D, that “Honors the Past, Acknowledges the Present, and Salutes the Future.” I used to watch my Mom (Dot) participate in these rituals on the Springer stage, surrounded by her ‘Springer kids’. They were all very special to her,  if I was there, she would insist that I join in. I was shy about it at first but before it ended, I would get this feeling in my heart that this was something special ...  It still is Today.

My Mom loved teaching acting, as much as acting. When I was pretty young, I used to watch her teach a summer acting class at something called  ‘Musemont’  at Jekyll Island. It was a part of her I rarely saw at home. I would get that feeling in my heart every time she’d walk on a stage. Whether it was at Musemont, Wynnton School Auditorium, or the Springer Opera House, she would light up like the 4th of July!

Her relatives called her Dorothy, grandkids called her Mama Dot, my friends and I used to call her Mountain Ma, at The Springer Theatre Academy, … she’s Dot… Miss you Mom

Love in the Wind

Love in the Wind

He was just 17 when he woke up from a deep snooze. You know, like teenagers do.

He wiped the sleep from his eyes and soon he realized, he was really hungry. He found some greens he could eat, they tasted a lot like dirt, but they satisfied his craving. It seemed nice and warm outside, so he popped out, and took in a big breath of fresh air.

He felt young and alive, almost transformed, into something new, You know, like teenagers do.

What’s that noise? He thought, as he listened with care. It sounds like a party going on over there. It was so magical, enticing, and new, So he spread his wings and flew! You know, like teenagers do.

He found new friends, and they sang and danced. Then he saw her, and he started to prance. He’d never seen such a pretty thing, orange eyes, yellow stripes, crystal wings. Those lovely wings spread as she invited him in, they danced and sang and made love in the the wind.

You know, like teenagers do

They didn’t know better, they thought it was great, but their love together would seal their fate. He became tired and could no longer fly. She laid her eggs and started to cry. He sang until he drew his last breath, he didn’t know their love would mean his death. She listened for his song, up high in the air, she listened and sang, but it was not there.

So she closed her wings and fell to the ground, as other lovers made their mating sound. Occasionally you can hear them, every now and then. But soon, they would all be silent again…

For 17 years the babies will sleep, buried in the dirt, about 6 inches deep. Then they’ll wake up, and sing and dance, and have their chance at a little romance…

You know, like teenagers do …

Up and Down, In and Out, Laugh and Cry

Up and Down, In and Out, Laugh and Cry

Scrooge to the Ghost of Christmas future:  “Spirit, you have shown a Christmas Yet To Come, which mingles great happiness with great sadness, what is to become of me?”  Scrooge Movie 1971.

I seem to always be quoting scenes from this movie about this time every year. This morning, this seems especially real. Yesterday I was saddened to hear that Jack Bassett died of a stroke early Christmas morning. I knew Jack from my days in radio. He was a talented, creative, honest advertising guy. I respected and appreciated him. I will miss him.

A few hours later I got a text picture of an ultrasound from Jason McKenzie. A quick phone call connected me to a very excited newlywed/soon to be father! What wonderful news from a great guy, at Christmas!

Now, this morning, I get news that Mike Venable has died. God bless him and Jill. Their life, and battle to live and appreciate life, has been an inspiration to me and countless others. I will miss him.

Now, as Gail and I get ready to go celebrate my grandson Alex Thor’s 9th birthday. I am reminded how happiness and sadness enter each of our lives. I prefer the happy times. I am grateful to have known these gentlemen. I am grateful to have known many friends, and relatives, who have passed on. I think of them often at Christmas. I hope you will remember your lost loved ones, and how they made you smile.  😊

I am happy to be here now.

I wish all of you out there a Happy New Year.

“May we all Live as long as we’re Alive”

   -------------------------------

Chestnuts are roasting and so am I

This Christmas movie is making me cry

Why, oh why, oh why, oh why?

Do I get the Blues at Christmas?

(Joseph W McClure @ 2023)

Day of the Dead?

The Day of the Dead?

I know, I promised to give you some more Adventures of Dooley and Me. We finally got home a few days ago, and I’ve had plenty to catch up on, and I’ll get to that soon. But my question today is: What’s this with the Day of the Dead? How have I gone 67 years and never heard of this phenomenon, er… day?  It’s apparently on a lot of people’s minds this year.

This time of year has been pretty weird for me for the past 4 years. The Irony of having open heart surgery on Halloween has never been lost on me. The bleeding out internally, having my heart stop, for some period of time, and being in a coma for 3 days, (apparently during The Day of the Dead) wasn’t part of the plan. Well… it wasn’t part of MY plan!

Well, this isn’t about me, as my sweet buddy Dooley nuzzles my hand for some love, today I’m thinking about, and remembering companionship from my furry friends throughout the years.

My very first pet was given to me by my Gramps. He was a sweet little Beagle puppy named Sam. My parents were NOT happy about this gift. Sam wanted lots of attention and was quite vocal about that… I came home from school one day and Sam was gone. I was told he escaped through a hole in the fence. I rode my bicycle around my neighborhood for a year calling Sam’s name. (the neighbors loved that!) I never found him.

Other pets early on involved cats, I had several as a child. There was Zero and P-40, a brother and sister who were constantly chasing each other around the house. Linus, an orange tabby, who ruled the house, (including my brother’s dog). Poco Skeekrah, which actually means “Little Voice” in two separate languages! And later there was, Smokey, Spooky, Shadow, Trixie, Mr. Rogers, Downy, Jinx, and Bill. (Bill was a sickly little fellow, in a litter of Kittens, his name was a result of all the Vet bills we paid.)

Then there were our dogs. The first one’s name was Valentine, a mostly black mutt who would stand out in the rain and bark, … constantly. We had to find Valentine a different home. The kids were scared of him. Then our neighbor brought over a beautiful Springer Spaniel we named Jesse. Jesse and Cotton the Cat got along very well and Jesse was everyone’s pet. They both lived happy long pet lives, we miss them.

Then there’s Boo. We met Boo on Halloween. He was calm, sweet, and loving at a party with 50 people in a crowded small room. His original name was Boogie, but we thought Boo was appropriate. Boo was great, you can read more about him at A Wagging Tail — Joe Songs Music   And there’s Dooley, he has his own blog.

I’ve had a few people wish me “Happy Resurrection Day” on Halloween and even now, The Day of the Dead. It seems a little blasphemous to call it that. But I know God was guiding all of those doctors, nurses, family, friends, and furry friends. I owe them every day I have left. I thank you for your love and support. And I’m wishing all of you going through your own Day of the Dead, remember them and smile through those tears…

Dooley at Jesse and Cotton’s resting place…

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 15

The Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 15

Dooley goes to Camp!

Remember how you used to go away for summer camp for a couple of weeks every summer? We decided to fly out to Colorado for a couple of weeks, and flying means we couldn’t take Dooley ☹  So we did what our parents used to do , We sent Dooley to summer camp for a couple of weeks! I wonder if my parents missed me as much as I missed Dooley?  … . . . Somehow I doubt it :}  Dooley loves summer camp, and he loves his camp counselor, Miss Caroline too. He gets to learn new tricks, play with other dogs, and cats, get some good training and socialization from the experience. I get to spend a couple of weeks without worrying about Dooley eating my socks and underwear! (If you know… you know)

Dooley’s new trick from this trip was to learn to jump in the car without having to be lifted into the car! (Believe me, this is a GREAT trick! My back appreciates it!) The only problem is, now every time I open the door, Dooley wants to jump in. 

As you may know (from previous blogs) Telluride is a very dog friendly place, everywhere I turn I see another Doodle of some kind, and many almost exact duplicates of my sweet boy Dooley. Instead of walking around showing people pictures of my grandkids, I’ve been showing off pictures of Dooley. (Don’t worry, I have pictures of the grands as well!)

Here’s an update on my friend Bruno, the maitre’d from Italy, who was about to get his United States citizenship. (See: Adventures of Dooley and Me Part 11) I asked him if he had been home to Italy yet, to see his parents. He said: “Yes! And I have never been so proud as when I landed back in the U.S. at LaGuardia airport; showed my passport to the Customs official, and he said “WELCOME HOME!”. I was proud to be HOME, in The United States of America!”

Wow, what a refreshing statement!

Dooley and Me will be driving across The Good ol’ USA again very soon! See you there!