Just a couple of thoughts that are floating around:

Neighborly

I like to appear friendly. It doesn’t always work for me, though. In general, when I’m out in my neighborhood, I smile and wave to anyone out walking, biking, or driving. It’s easy and it’s nice. Two characteristics that aren’t always applied to me. Besides, it’s not much of a reach to be in a good mood when you are walking in one of the most beautiful areas in the world, the South Carolina low country – marshes, wildlife, sunrises and sunsets – gorgeous. Most of my neighbors respond to my friendly salutations in a similar manner, but a significant proportion seem surprised or even perplexed.

Frequently when I’m out walking, I am attached to my 63 pound pit bull, Lucy. Wonderful dog. Just sweet and loves everyone, but she’s still a powerful pot-bellied pit and when she decides that particular squirrel is pushing her last button, then I have to be prepared. Suffice to say that Lucy’s leash takes one of my arms and 70% of my concentration, so I only have one hand free.

As you dog owners know, the main reason I’m walking Lucy in the first place is for her to do what dogs do when they’re out for a walk. Sparing the graphic details, the end result is that for more than half the walk, I am carrying a bag that Lucy has filled for me.

Well, it occurred to me the other morning, that when my neighbors are approaching me during these beautiful mornings or evenings and I have only one hand free, I am saying hello by waving a bag of dog shit at them. Could that be the reason that some seem a little taken aback? This whole “friendly” thing may not be as easy as I thought. Oh, those unintended consequences.

I think maybe I’ll wait a few more years before running for the Board.

Fans

Well, the game is over patriot fans. How has your life improved?  Any change at all? Anything?  Tom and Giselle will be heading to the islands for a month or so. I think they’re ok. Gronk will be doing Gronkish things and making lots of money at it. Belichick is already back in the lab creating next year’s edition. They’re all millionaires.

And what about you? It’s a rainy, cold Tuesday and you are heading into work. Don’t really like the job. Boss is still an asshole. The check engine light is still on and there is next to  nothing in the IRA.

There’s nothing wrong with watching sports. I certainly do it regularly. The feats of Julio Jones are astounding. Roger Federer’s like will never be seen again. Bird and Magic gave me hours of excitement.

You need to keep the whole thing in perspective, though. It’s not “just a game”. It’s actually much, much less than that. It’s a game played by hired mercenaries who you do not know, will never meet and, if you did, with whom you would have nothing in common. ER visits, domestic violence, and physical altercations (fights) all increase in cities after their professional team loses. Jesus, come on. It’s a fucking game.

By the way, Falcons fans, the same goes for you. It’s not the end of the world.

By the way, if you bought a professional jersey for $140 and wore it yesterday to a party or in front of your tv, this message isn’t for you. You’re beyond hope.