Rain, Toys & John Paul(s)

1. The Richmond Spiders succumbed to the Stony Brook Seawolves last Saturday. It was not an enjoyable game. But, on to the next game as they face the Colgate Raiders (1-1) at home.

    The rivalry between the Irish Lads and the Michigan State Spartans is a time honored one. The games are always exciting and this one was no exception. Unfortunately the Spartans were successful, 36-28. Now at 1-2, the Irish Lads face Duke, also at 1-2. 

2. Finally, after many weeks of dryness and heat, the rain came. The grass is growing once again and the flowers add their beautiful colors to the yard. All is well.

3. I have been waiting for Michael Weatherly’s new series, “Bull.” I was not disappointed. Michael is a great actor and continues to impress me. I like his new new character and the story line of the program.

4. So, now who is replacing Tony Dinozzo on “NCIS?” There are two new characters. 

Special Agent Nick Torres and Special Agent Alex Quinn. Two different types of characters which should complement Gibbs’ team. I’m looking forward to the new season.

5. “Men are like wine, some turn to vinegar, but the best improve with age.”

Pope John XXIII

6. While we were playing the game “Catch Phrase,” “wind-up toy” was one of the selections that the “guys” had to solve. Fortunately we did. Our friend Maureen said that reminded her of a Peter, Paul & Mary tune. 

Peter, Paul & Mary - “The Marvelous Toy”

7. On September 23, 1779, John Paul Jones tells Captain Richard Pearson,of the British ship HMS Serapis, “I have not yet begun to fight.” He proceeds to win the naval battle, which includes a second British ship, the HMS Countess of Scarborough. Read more about him at the U.S. Navy website.

Go over to "This Ain't the Lyceum,” where Kelly is hosting more takes.

Football, Remember & Croce

1. The Richmond Spiders started off the season with two wins. The first over the Virginia Cavaliers and the second one over the Norfolk State Spartans. They travel to Stony Brook and face the Seawolves this Saturday.

2. The Irish Lads had a tough loss against Texas but triumphed over Nevada in week two. They are facing the Michigan State Spartans at home this weekend.

3. This is dedicated to John Vigiano Sr. and his family. My prayers are always with you.

4.  “God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.”

Voltaire

5. Jim Croce - “Roller Derby Queen.” A great tune.

6. The “River City Rollergirls" from Richmond, Virginia. Read about them, learn about roller derby and check out their schedule. 

7. Trisha, at "Prints of Grace," is having laparoscopic surgery today, Friday the 16th. Please keep her in your prayers. 

Go over to "This Ain't the Lyceum,” where her highness, Queen Kelly, is hosting more takes.

Beach Party, Prayers & Neil

1. If you live anywhere near Staunton, Virginia you should think about attending “The Frontier Culture Museum,” annual beach party. Dee and I were there and enjoyed an evening of eating, drinking, dancing and sharing time with friends. Music was provided by “The Original Rhondels.” 

2. Prayers for Chessy Prout, who, on Tuesday of this week, spoke out about her ordeal at St. Paul’s Prep School in Concord, New Hampshire. 

3. This is from Your Daily Tripod, posted by Anthony DeCristofaro.

“Brian DeRouen and his wife Kathleen run Alderson Hospitality House, a Catholic Worker (nonprofit) B&B in Alderson, West Virginia (http://www.aldersonhospitalityhouse.org/).  They offer food and comfort to friends & family visiting women incarcerated at a nearby prison. On June 23, water began flooding into their home, giving Brian just enough time to get his family, their pets, and a handful of belongings to safety. They’re raising money to repair their home and get back on their feet after this devastating flood. They have a little more than $20,000 of the $40,000 they predict will be needed to rebuild.  Won’t you help them? #WVfloodrelief #WVstrong

Donate today: https://www.razoo.com/us/story/Rising-From-The-Water”

4. I have allergies. Dust, grass, pollen, ragweed, cats, grasses, mold, insects, etc. etc. I’ve learned to live with them and try not to let them disrupt my life. So, my “earth angel,” Dee, sent me this article, “Your Month-by-Month Guide to Allergies.”  She is always thinking of me.

5. When Dee and I joined the Church of the Epiphany, the music director was a beautiful, spiritual person by the name of Judith Lewis. She is now with our Lord and I’m sure she is now part of the “Angel Choir.” (She could very well be the music director.) Her funeral was full of the music that she loved and was sung by all those whom she taught, guided and loved throughout her career at Epiphany. Her obituary.  

6. “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”

Aristotle

7. Neil Diamond - “Red Red Wine.” This is one of my favorites.

Go over to "This Ain't the Lyceum,” where Kelly is hosting more takes.