I was asked recently about the best advice I ever got. In 1978, I bought a Jeep CJ-5 and took it home to show Dad. “Now I can go anywhere!,” I said. “Be real careful, son, or you’ll just get stuck further from town.” Wise man. Bubbles up.

I have looked around my life. I have sought counsel from my family and friends. I walk my ‘hood. The temptation to leave the country is strong, because there’s legitimate fear my tribe will soon be targeted. But I am not alone in the fight, so I hereby choose to stay and to fight. Bubbles up.

Wasabi is sweet with me, unpredictable with others. A couple weeks ago, he bit someone. I thought about putting him down. Instead, I interviewed a professional dog trainer this morning. I’m committed to this, although it was pricy. Wasabi, Kix, Rizmo, Kitt and Toby are worth it. So am I. Bubbles up.

A TV celebrity, Dr. Oz, is now in charge of my healthcare. This is quite something. Young Republicans with older relatives and cherished friends will soon begin understanding the damage they have done to the people they claim to love. Buckle up and bubbles up.

As th upcoming shitshow approaches just past the holidays, it occurs to me that no amount of twinkly lights and inflatable snowmen is going to cheer me up. To quote the late, great Jimmy Buffett, “We have a lot to drink about.” Bartender, make it a double. Bubbles up.

Hello out there. Hello.