Some random thoughts for a Monday:
– Well, the Penguins are staying in Pittsburgh, thanks to a joyous partnership between the government, the team, and the state’s new gambling income. Talk about your mixed feelings. I’m glad the team is staying put. However, when the government says that “no tax monies” were being used to fund the arena, I beg to differ. Gambling is essentially a tax on people who can’t do math and calculate odds. The Lottery is the same idea. It’s the old “nobody gets hurt” rule, but it’s simply not true. Apparently, people in PA still have some scruples, though…a move to put a casino outside Gettysburg was defeated (I wrote several emails about that one, too). Here in Utah, we’ve got lots of issues but gambling isn’t one of them. I also pay less taxes than I did in PA. Here’s hoping that the state is able to find another way toward economic viability.
– The weather here in Park City has been balmy this week–approaching the 70s. We’re still due for another snow storm at some point, though, which will be debilitatingly depressing. Once the first big thaw happens, I’m more than ready to break out the sandals and head to the ballpark. I know I’m in the minority in a ski town, but it’s usually around this time of year that I start watching golf on TV just to see some green grass.
– Had a potluck at the church after second service yesterday. If there’s a better way to eat, I don’t know what it is. It’s really the ultimate buffet where loading your plate is encouraged. I always look at it as a foretaste of the great Kingdom Feast–I’m guessing that will be a covered dish, too, with Methodists leading the way.
– My daughter’s yard sale bike essentially fell apart last week in time for spring, so I set out to get her a new one. Bikes aren’t cheap, but the joy that a kid feels when she gets one is worth every dime. It was pure joy watching her jump on her new wheels and take off.
– The PCCC softball team will begin practices soon enroute to another thrilling season. I may get shifted to the right side of the infield this year, though. I’m already working on the pivot for the DP.
– Did my favorite Sunday afternoon activity yesterday–took a good drooling-in-the-pillow nap while watching a NASCAR race. I sleep through the middle, wake up with about 40 laps to go and watch till the end. It’s the perfect nap background. I’d really like to see on live someday, though.
– Pray for our troops. They are being treated very badly by a government that is supposed to support them. It’s a hard enough life as it is without being given the right equipment, manpower, and support to do the work. It’s easy to switch channels when you hear about what’s going on in Iraq. Before you do, say a prayer for peace.
