TUESDAY, MAY 7th

Laid low.  This week's entry comes a day late as I am only now beginning to recover from a bad cold.  Have had to spend much time supine in my recliner with only short walks around the block.  

Spring? Unwisely I took the snow shovels off the back deck and, in retribution, Ullr rewarded me with snow last Wednesday morning. At least he sent down those big, fat, water-ladened flakes that stick to branches and darken the bark on the trees, all much needed here in our drought-plagued state. The high country was similarly blessed, the webcams along the I-70 corridor and in Breckenridge look very “white.”

While we are speaking of drought.  Most western students of geography knows about the much maligned line of 100º west longitude: to the west lies the "Great American Desert."   Many of us who reside west of the line have enjoyed inquiring of fellow plane passengers about those large green circles in the middle of Nebraska.  I have gotten some of the most interesting explanations, especially from young fliers: alien "crop circles" and burn marks from alien space ships are two of their favorites.  Even some eastern adults are clueless.  So you smile and explain while trying not to come across too much like the "Big Bang's" Sheldon.  

A view from the right. The following points come from Michael Gerson's recent column, a sobering analysis by a moderate commentator on the challenges facing the Republican party.

Republicans face a series of complicated political tasks. First, they must manage to get back to George W. Bush’s level of support among Latinos — somewhere in the low- to mid-40s — and eventually compete for a majority of that vote...Second, Republicans must manage the difficult task of becoming more socially inclusive without becoming socially liberal...Third, Republicans must manage to stand for long-term fiscal sanity while promoting social and economic mobility...All of these Republican goals demand a response more sophisticated than simple obstruction.

As the old saw goes, the proof will be in the pudding and politics provides no certainty that the pudding will be tasty even edible.

A good read. I have begun Two Graves by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. I have read several of their books, all interesting. The authors's books offer a mix of mystery, combined with detailed, accurate site descriptions, CSI-like analysis/psychological profiles, and interesting characters. Two Graves opens with a quote from Confucius, “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.”

Yours, but not mine? The public was treated to its first example of who gets “saved” and who gets “hurt” in the Sequester Wars. The sequester-induced air travel delays were halted in short order.  My heavens, no one could expect House Majority Leader Boehner to be delayed for more than 90 minutes without him taking action! But, do not even think of complaining if your child's head start program is shortened/altered or elderly relative's "meals on wheels" does not arrive.

Have a pleasant week; stay warm and healthy.