People don't want it to rain on their parade and for certain they don't want it to rain on their Memorial Day picnic.
If there was every a psyche up day for smoky barbeque, cold Corona and crunchy potato chips, it's this special American holiday which represents the first day of the summer season. And don't let anyone spoil the fun with cool temperatures, high winds and spitting' rain.
At a family-style gathering this weekend, a hearty group huddled under a table umbrella, clad in hats, fleecy jackets and the warmth and aroma of fat cigars. Pay no attention to the black clouds, damp cement and a breeze that could put a kids' kite in the air in seconds.
The holiday would be enjoyed regardless. Food, family and friends make the festivities even if the thermometer is, quite literally, a downer.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Electronic coffee knows no beans
I used to think coffee houses were intellectual havens for political debate, intellectual conversation, cigarette-smoke-clogged air, and Jack Kerouac-inspired prose around round, sticky tables stained by one-too-many spilled espressos.
As with most everything in life, my, how things have changed. At least they got rid of the smoke.
During a visit to a local coffee emporium, I came face-to-face to a new reality -- no one is even talking in these places. Individualism trumps teams, pairs, couples and friends. Conversation is only between the eyes and a tablet, laptop computer or phone screen.
For 95 percent of the patrons, no one is looking up, no one is using vocal cords or verbalizing about Congressional gridlock, prospects for new jobs or debate over Best Picture nominees.
If it's just all about collecting and assimilating data, it's a great playground. But if you are trying to build relationships, jump start social interaction or just enjoy a hot latte within your own thoughts, the place is now as cold and uncomfortable as the dreary winter weather outside.
As with most everything in life, my, how things have changed. At least they got rid of the smoke.
During a visit to a local coffee emporium, I came face-to-face to a new reality -- no one is even talking in these places. Individualism trumps teams, pairs, couples and friends. Conversation is only between the eyes and a tablet, laptop computer or phone screen.
For 95 percent of the patrons, no one is looking up, no one is using vocal cords or verbalizing about Congressional gridlock, prospects for new jobs or debate over Best Picture nominees.
If it's just all about collecting and assimilating data, it's a great playground. But if you are trying to build relationships, jump start social interaction or just enjoy a hot latte within your own thoughts, the place is now as cold and uncomfortable as the dreary winter weather outside.
Monday, January 21, 2013
In response to our fans...
All right, it's been over a year.
I've delayed, procrastinated and otherwise avoided doing what needs to be done.
You've missed miscellaneous ramblings, select wine tips, restaurant recommendations and general overviews on the absurdity of the situation-du-jour.
But, hey, it's not coming back in a day. I'm still struggling with the aftermath of several communication hardware and software upgrades...new computer, new mini-tablet on the easy side, Windows 8 and email revisions on the more complicated end.
Words will soon begin flowing on the screen faster than a swift wind in January. Hey, it is January, isn't it?
I've delayed, procrastinated and otherwise avoided doing what needs to be done.
You've missed miscellaneous ramblings, select wine tips, restaurant recommendations and general overviews on the absurdity of the situation-du-jour.
But, hey, it's not coming back in a day. I'm still struggling with the aftermath of several communication hardware and software upgrades...new computer, new mini-tablet on the easy side, Windows 8 and email revisions on the more complicated end.
Words will soon begin flowing on the screen faster than a swift wind in January. Hey, it is January, isn't it?
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