Category Archives: Uncategorized

I’ve been away for (another) two months, but I know there is still a reader here. I heard from him yesterday.

Tom, it’s been a long while since we have heard from you. With so much to write about I can’t help but wonder if you are well. I’m so very fond of your work. Hope you are doing okay. Don’t think for a second that what you do isn’t important. Reading you keeps many of us sustained in this time of madness. please come back to us.

Talk about mixed feelings. I am immensely grateful for the concern, and for the compliments. At the same time I feel shame for having abandoned you.

Which is odd, because nobody signed up for this. We don’t have an explicit contract, you and I, and yet when people have been hanging out together for years, and one of them suddenly leaves, does he not owe an explanation? Of course he does. We don’t sign contracts to become friends, either, but we know when the terms of friendship have been violated.

So I want you to know, dear reader, that my absence from you has not been casual, or uncaring. There has been a distracting illness — not mine, but in my family — and I am tempted to blame everything on that. But that would be incorrect. Continue reading →

As individuals age, their needs and preferences for housing and care may evolve, leading many to explore living options for seniors tailored to their unique circumstances. Senior living services encompass a range of options designed to meet the diverse needs of older adults, providing varying levels of support, amenities, and care to promote independence, well-being, and quality of life.

Independent living communities cater to active and independent seniors who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to amenities and social activities. These communities typically offer private residences such as apartments or cottages, along with shared spaces for dining, recreation, and fitness. Residents enjoy the freedom to pursue their interests and hobbies while benefiting from the convenience and security of community living.

Assisted living facilities like Tiffany Court senior respite care services provide personalized care and support for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Residents live in private or semi-private apartments and receive assistance as needed, enabling them to maintain their independence while receiving the help they require. Assisted living communities often offer amenities such as dining services, housekeeping, transportation, and social activities to enhance residents’ quality of life. Visit sites like https://www.oceanhillsseniorliving.com/living-options/ or https://www.gardensofsuncity.com/community-life/ to get an idea of their amenities.

Memory care communities and memory care for seniors specialize in caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other forms of memory impairment. These memory care for seniors provide a secure and structured environment with specially trained staff who understand the unique needs and challenges of residents with memory loss. Programs and activities are tailored to stimulate cognitive function and promote engagement, while safety features such as secured entrances and monitored exits ensure residents’ well-being. You can find out about memory care for seniors when you ask professionals about memory care senior living plans.

Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, offer comprehensive medical care and rehabilitation services for seniors with complex health needs or disabilities. Residents receive round-the-clock nursing care, assistance with activities of daily living, and access to medical professionals and therapies to support their recovery and overall health. Nursing homes may also provide long-term care for individuals who require ongoing assistance and supervision due to chronic conditions or disabilities.

In conclusion, senior living options and personal care for seniors encompass a range of options designed to meet the diverse needs of older adults, from independent living communities such as senior community in Palmdale, CA for active retirees to memory care facilities for individuals with cognitive impairments. By understanding the different types of senior living services available, individuals and their families can make informed decisions that align with their preferences, values, and care needs as they age.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

You all did love cars once, not without cause. What cause withholds you now?

Few countries have embraced any industry with the fervor America used to have for its automobiles. Cars weren’t just a product, they were part of our culture, our very identities. In my youth our neighbors were Chevy people like us, or Ford people or something else, the Other, and everybody knew who everybody was. Getting your driver’s license and your first car, which often happened on the same day, were major, unforgettable milestones in your life. Families celebrated the arrival of a new car as if it were a new baby — with gloating tours of the neighborhood, distribution of pictures, and so on.

In 2009, when a chain reaction started by the financialization of subprime loans for real estate threatened to destroy the world’s economy, America declared that the auto industry was too big and too important to fail, and rescued it just before it did, with massive infusions of imaginary government cash. General Motors and Chrysler tiptoed back out of bankruptcy, and the whole industry tiptoed back from the brink of the abyss. Continue reading →

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

When an oil well like Deepwater Horizon explodes, the images are unforgettable. When the entire industry starts to collapse, it’s hard to see and to remember.

In a recent essay I proposed the existence of a new human subspecies – homo sapiens ephemera — that is smart (thus sapiens) but severely afflicted by attention deficit disorder and long-term memory loss. Thus ephemera may understand, for example, the connection between a burning fuse at his feet and an imminent explosion, but almost immediately forgets it, goes on to something else, and is surprised by the blast. Nowhere is this behavior more evident than in the U.S. oil patch, whose collapse, predicted here and elsewhere for years, is now described by none other than Moody’s Investors Service, quoted in Bloomberg News as “catastrophic” and perhaps “the worst bust of any industry this century.”

Continue reading →

CBD, or cannabidiol, has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. Instead, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes.

One of the most widely recognized benefits of CBD is its ability to alleviate pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters. This makes CBD a promising option for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain disorders.

In addition to its pain-relieving properties, CBD products like the ones offered by indacloud has been touted for its potential to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Research suggests that CBD may interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which play a key role in regulating mood and anxiety levels. As a result, many people use CBD along with Golden Bloom Coffee for Sale as a natural remedy for anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

CBD has also shown promise as a treatment for epilepsy and other seizure disorders. In fact, the FDA has approved a CBD-based medication called Epidiolex for the treatment of two rare forms of epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Studies have found that CBD may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in individuals with these conditions, providing hope for patients who have not responded to other forms of treatment.

Furthermore, CBD has been studied for its potential neuroprotective properties, with research suggesting that it may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may help prevent damage to brain cells and reduce inflammation in the central nervous system, potentially slowing the progression of these debilitating diseases.

Overall, CBD like the ones offered by Cannabis delivery Bakersfield offers a range of potential health benefits, from pain relief and anxiety reduction to seizure control and neuroprotection. However, it’s essential to note that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal dosing of CBD. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

In today’s world, the desire to look and feel our best is more prevalent than ever, and this has led many people to consider skin treatments and surgery like plastic surgery and aesthetics in Torrance, CA. While the decision to undergo these procedures is personal, there are several common reasons why people choose to pursue them, ranging from self-confidence to medical necessity.

Boosting Self-Confidence

One of the primary reasons people opt for cosmetic procedures is to boost their self-esteem. Our appearance can significantly impact how we perceive ourselves and how we interact with others. Skin treatments like chemical peels, microneedling such as this Cape Cod microneedling, or laser resurfacing help address concerns such as acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines, resulting in smoother, more radiant skin. Similarly, cosmetic surgeries like rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, or liposuction can help people align their outer appearance with their inner self-image. When people feel good about how they look, their confidence can improve, leading to positive effects in personal and professional relationships.

Combating Aging and Enhancing Youthfulness

Aging is inevitable, but many people wish to delay its effects on their appearance. Treatments such as Botox injections like this Botox treatment in Sacramento, CA or Botox – Nunnally Dermatology and dermal fillers help reduce wrinkles and restore lost volume, providing a more youthful appearance. Facelifts such as facetite in Noblesville, IN and neck lifts offer more dramatic results by tightening sagging skin and smoothing deep creases. By addressing these signs of aging, individuals often feel rejuvenated and more energized, ready to embrace new opportunities with renewed vigor.

Correcting Physical Imperfections

For some, physical imperfections like a crooked nose, asymmetrical breasts, or prominent scars can be a source of distress. Corrective procedures like rhinoplasty such as nose surgery in Naperville, IL; breast reconstruction such as Atlanta breast lift and San Antonio breast augmentation; or scar revision can help address these issues, leading to improved quality of life and psychological well-being. Cosmetic surgery can also address functional issues, such as breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum or vision impairment caused by droopy eyelids. It’s important to consult experts that specialize in breast augmentation in Dallas, TX and other procedures before undergoing one.

Medical Reasons and Recovery from Illness

In some cases, cosmetic surgery is pursued for medical reasons. For instance, people recovering from significant weight loss might require a tummy tuck or body lift to remove excess skin. Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy can help women regain their confidence and sense of femininity. Skin treatments can also be part of a therapeutic regimen for individuals with severe acne, rosacea, or other skin conditions.

Social and Cultural Influences

Societal beauty standards and cultural norms can also influence individuals to consider cosmetic procedures. With the rise of social media and the emphasis on visual content, many feel a desire to maintain a polished appearance both online and offline.

People consider skin treatments and cosmetic surgery for various reasons, including boosting self-confidence, addressing aging concerns, correcting imperfections, and medical necessity. Whatever the motivation, it’s essential to approach these decisions with realistic expectations and consult with qualified professionals such as this skin care clinic in Westlake, OH to ensure safety and user experience as they have the latest technology such as an aesthetic photos app. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance one’s appearance in a way that aligns with personal values and goals.