Obviously, the US is riveted (or appalled, or both) by the goings on in Washington DC this week. The inability of the Republicans to select a speaker of the House of Representatives, (and therefore swear in Representatives and start the work of Congress), is in stark contrast to the smooth beginning for the Democrat-led Senate and the bipartisan highlighting of legislative success than benefits real Americans (such as in Kentucky and Ohio).
It’s tempting to blow off the chaos in Congress as just another bit of theater, but it’s not normal and it delays the job that Congress is supposed to be doing on our behalf. And the behavior just seems to be getting worse and increasingly pathetic. Bluntly, it’s an embarrassment and it weakens America.
I hope we see some leadership soon, and a solution that will put the speaker’s gavel in the hands of someone who can wield it with integrity. Though I am not optimistic.
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This Australian spoof article of how we’re committing to carbon reduction made me laugh out loud: Man announces he will quit drinking by 2050
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California is having a rough beginning to 2023 with a couple of significant earthquakes in northern California, and they’re now dealing with storms that are expected to be the worst in at least five years. Evacuations have been ordered in several vulnerable places.
One of the riskier situations from these intense storms is where heavy rain falls on areas previously burned by wildfire and can lead to a higher chance of landslides (such as in Santa Barbara right now).
The intensity and frequency of ‘atmospheric rivers’ - the phenomenon that brings these winter storms to the West Coast - is expected to increase over time with climate change. It’s potentially good news for drought relief overall, but receiving so much all at once is less beneficial for water supply than if it were spread out, and obviously it’s incredibly dangerous for residents and infrastructure. A state of emergency has been declared for the state.
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There is a new 25th anniversary edition of the book Anam Cara by the late John O’Donohue. If you haven’t read the poetry and philosophy of this gentle man, I strongly encourage it! His writing is beautiful and soulful and kind and is rooted in the wild majesty of western Ireland’s landscape. Here is a poem of his that seems especially apt for the New year:
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And two pictures to lift your spirits today!
One from my Uncle and Aunt who are currently traveling in an RV in beautiful Croatia. This sunset behind a church steeple is from the Stobrec area. (Got any photos of your travels or the view from your window?? I’d love to feature them! Send to anne@earthsnextchapter.com)
And the second photo is simply a puppy. Carrying a large stuffed cat. Because ‘Betty Biscuit’ wanted to wish you a happy new year.
I hope you have a great weekend!
Thank you Lori! And I hope 2023 is on exactly the path you’re hoping for too!
Really enjoyed the news about Greg Taylor, glad he can be a mentor for legislators everywhere - what amazing promises!
Also, the poem and photos were lovely! I hope 2023 continues to be amazing for you.