Had medical stuff today (kid health issues, but not life-threatening) and will probably have follow-up later in the week. When they're 19 they're not running to Mom for a hug (this is a heads-up, Michelle!) Also, I've been in touch with my sister, my first cousin who lived in Denver died this morning. He is the first in our generation to pass away, only a few years older than me. Horrible health problems (recovering alcoholic, lots of stuff from that) and in the hospital for a broken back (from a short fall and probably brittle bones) he contracted the Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection one hears about in hospitals. He hated the ventilator they had him on so it was removed yesterday and he died overnight.

Weather-wise it's just one day at a time now, the heat is never ending. Even the native trees are looking awful. Yards scorched, and those that aren't, that are perfectly green from irrigation, are frankly an embarrassment. There are people in the world in drought conditions who have to carry every drop miles from a well pump, and the folks here pour millions of gallons on grass. I'm trying to keep the lawn and the trees alive (for food and shade). The grass is totally a vanity item, as far as I'm concerned, and a waste of safe drinking water.

Alice, that map cabinet is beautiful. We have lots and lots of those in the library where I work, old dark wood ones from decades ago and newer ugly metal ones from more recent years.

Odd post here, odd week, foul mood from the heat. It will get better!

SRS