Just for Fun Archive

Save your Family Stories

Recently I finally finished my Pop’s biography. While originally written to preserve his (and a few of my mother’s) stories for our family, during the process it became clear that the tales should be available to a broader audience. Why? Because history books are filled with information, but hearing what happened from “the horse's mouth” is more impactful, and arguably closer to the truth. During…

Texas Heat Today and Yesterday

As I write in my air-conditioned office, it’s a mere 95 degrees outside. Dog walks end with tongues hanging out, theirs and mine. Back inside we go to bask in the cool air that still seems like a bit of Heaven on Earth each time that first blast hits my face, dripping with sweat.  And, summer has only just begun. For the few times the…

Nonsense + Common Sense Makes Sense

If common sense is less common, is nonsense overcome? I keep hearing that common sense is not so common. But is common sense endangered or is it a super power? Perhaps common sense is not as common as it used to be. But, at the same time, are we undervaluing nonsense? After 13.5 inches of rain over the last six days, the sun slipped out…

What a career–Pianist, Prime Minister, Grape Grower!

Looking for a career change? Need some inspiration? Take a look at the life of Ignacy Paderewski. Paderewski was a brilliant pianist, a pretty darn good composer, and a Polish statesman advocating for the independence of Poland. After working with Woodrow Wilson and becoming the Prime Minister of Poland, Paderewski relocated to sunny California. Just what does a polish statesman and pianist do during the…