From My Red Chair: Doctor Doctor Give Me The News (Bob Seger)

Just a short note to thank you who have visited this blog over the fifteen years it has existed.

Plans are to continue this blog as long as its author is strengthened to do so. 

David C. Russell, Author

 

Update and Story: Birds Of A Feather (David C. Russell, Author

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is a breezy November 4, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

As you noticed from the subject, this post will feature a short story of mine titled, Birds Of A Feather. The setting is a beachfront that goes out into a strait called The St. Clair River here in lower SE Michigan. The characters are the birds who share this property with the public.

One note, reference is made to the United States Government shutdown, which will hopefully be a thing of the past long before Springtime. We have self-centered public officials from both parties here in the U.S., in my opinion. 

Feel free to share this story and blog with your friends and acquaintances.

Comments welcome, but do enjoy this little escape from the pings and pongs of life.

Birds of a Feather

David C. Russell

 

 

The 50-mile bridge-to-bay trail was active Memorial Day Weekend.  Winter passed. This spring day offered mostly sunny skies, gentle breeze, a sense of refresh and hopefulness was significant. Passage of the long federal government shutdown also added to the newness experienced across humanity.  extended hours of daylight, and collective longing for the outdoors and its social amenities were now in reach. This 72-hour Holiday weekend had come to be regarded ‘first unofficial weekend of Summer’ across the nation.

This hiking and biking trail’s length has extended South from New Baltimore north to Lakeport State Park.

 

Meantime, a flock of seagulls returned some weeks ago from winter trips afar to Chrysler Beach in the medium-size town, Marysville, Michigan. The beachfront had shown stirred wakefulness as the young frolicked in the shallows of the St. Clair River, walkers with or without canine companions strolled the beach front, picnicers brought eats from home or the nearby deli, sandwich shop, or food truck.

A handful of gulls had gathered by the boat dock to engage in bird chatter the Friday before Memorial Day. “We had a good Winter, but the next four months will be the best,” said Mrs. Wing, chairperson of the foraging group.

“I got one complaint though about this beach,” Hazel Preen began, “This place has become way too friendly for dogs. It makes foraging a challenge having them bitches here,” she said.

“Does anything make you happy?” cawed Mr. Crowstead?

“Yeah, good fresh water instead of infested water mixed with waste product by animal life including human.”

Ms. Robin added, “The fresh water is the best, especially after a worm appetizer or group sing-and-chirp.”

“I’ll talk to King Charles of the Spaniel group about the increase in dogs at this beach. He’s pretty shrewd and can strike a diplomatic deal,” said 20-year-old Chirp Friendly. He was Ambassador representing Gull government.

 

So, one mid-summer afternoon, King Charles had wakened from his afternoon nap to see Chirp nearing. The two discussed the seagulls concerns about being overrun by dogs at the beach.

“I like your thoughtful proposal, Chirp. Establishment of a program where certain breeds are allowed on specific days. Violators will become sick from a smart chemical we can put out here,” King Charles stated.

“Is the agent only harmful to breeds not allowed?” Chirp asked.

“Yes. It’s a smart agent designed to work according to public policy. It cannot be tampered with nor altered by some mischievous evil-doer,” Charles said. Both exchanged expressions that communicated general agreement to the proposal.

“Can this be implemented soon?” Chirp asked.

“Probably after this weekend, around the middle of next week,” stated Charles.

Chirp reported the summation of his conversation to the group the following morning. The gulls enjoyed a community bug feast. The gourmet food-fair included crickets, grasshoppers, and June bugs.

“Glad you were able to negotiate something, Chirp. Bet your parents were proud as hell of you,” said Turkey Trotter, most senior citizen of the beachfront population.

“I think this is a horrible deal,” began Mrs. Preen. “I like certain types of dogs and not others. The small, short, yappy brats are okay, but the Retrievers, Brittany Hounds, and Terriers ruffle my feathers.”

“Mrs. Preen, aren’t you ever happy?” chimed in Turkey Trotter. She recalled this same question verbatim from earlier. Her response was a string of gull expletives mingled with character defamation.

   A young lad watching from the shoreline turned about. From his satchel - he withdrew a small handful of oyster crackers and tossed them toward the gull gathering. Mrs. Preen responded with eager thanks!

Noticing the exchange, Turkey Trotter concluded that moments of happiness are possible for even the grouchy, irascible, snappy forward fowl.

As the summer months passed, the new regulations took effect. The sector of humanity bent on testing the regulations were soon convinced by resultant behavior that conformity was in everyone’s best interest. The public property appeared more clean and less disorganized with the new regulations in place. Turkey Trotter observed as Labor Day approached, “Mrs. Preen, you’re smiling more these days. What changed?”

“People finally started to take my recommendations seriously,” she chirped.

 

 

End

Until next visit, the Lord bless and keep all of us,

Moreover, Thanks to our Military for ongoing service, Happy Thanksgiving, and to Christian/Catholics, happy start to your season of Advent. See you back here in a few weeks!

David C. Russell, Author

Mellow Rock

 

Offering Sacrifice

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Thursday October 30, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

This post, given the title, Sacrifice, after the song sharing the same title by singer, Elton John. Perhaps this topic will appeal to persons of faith but is presented in such a manner to cause us all to consider what we offer in life, and for what reason or sake do we offer time, talent or finances.

Each day in my email inbox, is a newsletter from My Jewish Learning presenting a page of reflection from the Talmud, which is a several-volume commentary by Jewish Rabbis on life and faith matters.

I wish to share an excerpt from a recent newsletter discussing how Temple sacrifices were to be conducted in the time when a physical temple actually existed in Jerusalem. My mind began to reflect on reasons I offer what is offered from my life after reading this excerpt shared with you. If the same results for you, and you care to comment, I invite you to do so!

This excerpt is pasted directly from the newsletter by My Jewish Learning.

Zevachim 46

 

By Rabbi Lexie Botzum

After devoting much of this chapter to the rules of piggul (sacrifice) and the ways incorrect intent can disqualify a sacrifice, the last mishnah of the chapter lists the intents that one should have with regard to an offering:

The slaughtered offering is slaughtered for the sake of six matters: For the sake of the particular type of offering; for the sake of the one who sacrifices; for the sake of God; for the sake of the fires; for the sake of the aroma; for the sake of the pleasing (of God); and, in the cases of a sin offering and a guilt offering, for the sake of the sin.

Me:  Today my offerings are given because: it may be more blessed to give than receive, I learned this is an expectation placed on humans, a ways and means to serve and please God, the cause or person is of interest, paying forward will result in receiving what is needed by me in time, etc.

Recent Happenings

I am continuing to read novels in the mystery genra. Ellery Queen is my current author read, and the late Patricia HighSmith is up next.

With writing, my forthcoming short story collection, From My Red Chair: A Short Story Collection, is about to undergo its final edit and revision. Plans are to publish this online in late January, 2026.

You may read one of the stories from this title at:

https://www.spillwords.com/author?davidcrussell

The story is titled, The Chronic Complainer.

My book will most likely be an EBook and audio from Apple Books.

It has been my pleasure to visit with you. I wish to thank one of you, whom I will call G.N., for your personal interest in my journey and writing journey.

Greetings and or comments are truly welcomed!

May HaShem (God) continue to bless and keep us always.

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

 

Don't Worry Be Happy (song, Bobby McFerrin, 1988)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Wednesday, October 15, 2025  in my corner of blog land.

  As you may know, one of my attributes is that of being a short story writer. With that, comes the need to create a general outline, and a general idea of the characters in a given story.

I found an article about this topic at Reedsy Editing, with which excerpts are presented below to more less examine oneself.

We spoke of mental health in our previous post, and this is a further add-it to that topic.

The title of the post is "The Proust Questionnaire."

Excerpt Below

6. What is your idea of happiness?

Is happiness something that your character feels every day, or something they strive for? What in this world brings them the most joy? (If you want to go one step further, think about what your character’s perfect day would look like.)

Notable answer: “Everybody around me is happy, my spirit is right, and just nothing but peace and tranquility in the building.” — Snoop Dogg, Vanity Fair

7. What is your idea of misery?

What does misery mean to your character? Is it something they see all around them, a state of being that can be eradicated with positive thinking, or do they believe their own misery to be unique? Consider a certain scenario or situation that they’d never want to find themselves in. What would it mean for them to hit rock bottom? (And if you want to go one step further like with the previous question, imagine how the worst day of your character’s life would go.)

Notable answer: “Picking up dog poop.” ― Rita Moreno, Vanity Fair

A dog running in a field

Picking up after one's dog rarely makes anyone's list of top pastimes. (Image: Joe Caione/Unsplash)

I like the thought that went into this post and this excerpt shared with you. Don't worry, no wrong answers, this is for you and I to contemplate on our own time.

In other things, I will be starting to read a book by the late Elmore Leonard later this month, a legal thriller of sorts. He is seen by one on Reddit, as one of the great authors of all time.

Until our next visit, may the Lord bless and keep us. Thanks for your visit!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

Out With The Old In With The New (original)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Sept. 30, 2025 in my corner of blog land and predicted to be a mostly sunny day with temps in the high seventies or low twenties Celsius.

Here in the U.S., the Federal Government faces the prospect of a temporary shutdown at midnight tonight, eastern time. Of course, officials may come up with something to keep the lights on and the money flowing.

Also here, post-season major league baseball games begin today. This will lead up to two teams contending in the MLB World Series in late October.

Do you have some major accomplishments to commemorate during October?

I began reading a psych thriller two days ago titled, The Argument. The author is one Victoria Jenkins. It's quite captivating and will likely hold one's attention when reading this title.

As to my forthcoming book, From My Red Chair, I am adding two or three more short stories to increase the page count by one-third to one-half the total.

I will release it hopefully in February just before the National Reading Month begins, March 2026. Of late, I have been addressing some tech issues with my seven-month-old computer.

The Jewish High Holy Days or Holidays are in progress. The culminating day will be Yom Kippur, The Day Of Atonemen. Accordingly, this goes from sundown Wednesday Oct 1st, until sundown Oct. 2nd.

I wish to thank you for stopping by. Would you please Invite a friend virtual or otherwise to visit this blog? I close with a health note about vegetables offered by the Mayo Clinic.

Finally, did you know Mayo Clinic recommends that adults aim to fill half their plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal, which translates to roughly five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day, with a greater emphasis on vegetables for a total of four or more servings of vegetables daily, as suggested in their Mediterranean diet plan. 

May God continue to bless and keep us.

Mellow Ropck

David C. Russell, Author

 

From My Red Chair (Original)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

To those of you observing Rosh Ha'Shanah, a sweet new year to you!

Did you feel a sense of "dajavu" on Monday when the news reported Donald Trump's comments on Tylenol Administration During Pregnancy?

Summary of that pasted below.

Despite the conflicting research and legal disputes, the medical community's consensus remains:

• Acetaminophen is considered the safest option for treating fever and pain during pregnancy.

• The potential risks of leaving a high fever or serious pain untreated are generally considered to be more significant than the potential risks of short-term, medically advised acetaminophen use.

• Pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss any medication use, and acetaminophen should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. View related links

ACOG Affirms Safety Benefits Acetaminophen Pregnancy

ACOG Affirms Safety Benefits Acetaminophen Pregnancy

Sep 22, 2025 — ACOG Affirms Safety and Benefits of Acetaminophen during Pregnancy. ACOG. ... “The studies that are frequently pointed to as evidence of a causal relationship, ...

ACOG

Minutes later, a Dr. McCarrie, also a voice from the COVID days weighed in on this, too. Personally, President Trump could use a little polish to his TV image.

My News

I am rereading a title first read some years ago: "The Education Of Little Tree" by Forest Carter.

I find it entertaining, references a simple lifestyle, good character, good old common sense, a pleasure to read!

My book title, From My Red Chair, has one of its stories featured as a free read on:

https://www.spillwords.com/Author/Davidcrussell

The Chronic Complainer.

I anticipate early October as release date. More to follow!

Thanks once again for dropping by. May God continue to bless and keep us in the new season at hand!

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

All By Myself (1980s Balad, Eric Carmin)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today, Sept. 11, 2025, is the 21st anniversary of the Terrorist Attack on America, and on a personal note, the date we closed on the sale of a former home. Today, on a somewhat similar note, we Americans may puzzle over the assassination of a talk journalist that occurred on Sept. 10 at a college campus outdoor event in the state of Utah.

I titled this post, All By Myself, to not only honor author Lejla Kalamujic and her book, this date in history, but also to remind us several things in one's life come down to God and our choice as life happens.

I will attain this mentioned book from Chirp Audio, but doesn't this sound like a good appeteaser?

Description

With unapologetic vividness, Lejla Kalamujic depicts pre- and post-war Sarajevo by charting a daughter coping with losing her mother, but discovering herself. 

Next visit, we will focus on my forthcoming release in October of "From My Red Chair".

Until next visit, may YHVH bless and keep us in the care of the Almighty.

Thanks for our ongoing visits!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell 

Limbs and Legs: Nerve Pain (Mellow Rock)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Sept. 3, 2025 in my corner of blog land. This date has a small melange of occurrences from my past life:

1994: My guide-dog of 16 months was returned to the program where we were matched. She had a chronic issue of showing aggression at the appearanvce of other dogs. I hope her years on planet earth were rewarded with good after we parted on Saturday morning that year, that month.

Sept. 3, 1995:  Involved in a motor vehicle accident that took a good three months to fully recover strength.

Sept. 3, 1996:  The week of my wedding, which was Saturday, Sept. 7, 1996! Nationally, Hurricane Fran was the storm of the week and month. We are still married, and might enjoy observing the lunar eclipse said to occur this Sept. 7. At least a good dinner somewhere!

Nerve pain is the subject of this post. The above wedding was pleasurable, first time for both of us to say, I do.

The accident and goodbye to a service dog were undoubtedly significant, wrenching, episodes. Recovery has happend as has life with good, bad, ugly.

This September 3, I am recovering from an elbow fracture sustained in August this year. I know nerve pain.

Musically, Victoria Nadine is said to offer something on the subject according to Google, YouTube.

I found this smattering of Google advisement to share between us:

• Exercise regularly: Moderate exercise can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

Nonprescription Treatments for Nerve Pain - WebMD

Nonprescription Treatments for Nerve Pain - WebMD

Sep 20, 2024 — Eat a good diet. There's no special eating plan for nerve pain. But a well-balanced diet -- with lots of fruits, veget...

WebMD

  Home remedies for nerve pain

From sources across the web

Exercise

Dietary supplement

Smoking cessation

Essential oils

Ice pack

Pain medication

Warm bath

Acupuncture

Note: I can vouch for the warm bath or shower with water pouring over my entire affected forearm for several minutes. Relief is temporary but sweet nonetheless.

Whatever you may be enduring this day, this week, this month, treat it well, don't ignore or pretend it will go away. Others are doing the same!

Until next visit, the Lord bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell

 

Take My Life and Let It Be (standard Protestant Hymn)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

It's nearing the start of August 28, 2025 in my corner of blog land. We have some catching up to do!

First, the title of this post is based on an old hymn and suggest you google the lyrics for prayerful inspiration. I think it appeals to all persons of faith.

Second, I want to share the description with you of my fourth book title, "From My Red Chair: A Short Story Collection".

I hope to release this in about seventy-five to ninety days.

Cover Blurb

Fiction/Short Stories

The late author, Wallace Stegner, observed that strength is measured by the burdens

one can bear. In David C. Russell’s new collection, From My Red Chair, he offers

commentary on life’s difficulties through six stories. Imagined situations and their

respective participants will appear as different from each other as dusk is from dawn.

Serenity, complaint, familial flexibility, expert opinion, and amends between associates

are viewed in the confines of created, real experience. Though each burden borne and

response chosen varies, the characters share the sense of affliction, struggle, and the

response it requires. This author offers some homemade insight through these stories

under the umbrella we call mental health.

  

I also have a story that will likely be in the Christmas Anthology titled, Divine Moments. More about that in the coming visits.

Recently, I have started reading daily reflections offered by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, IFCJ. Google, Holy Land Moments Devotions, and sample away!

We had sad news this day in America, another mass shooting. This time it was children and older adults attending a morning Catholic Mass in Minnesota. This seems to be the only country on earth where recurrence of this happens again and again. Pray for those affected by this tragedy and others like it!

Until our next visit, may the Lord bless and keep us. Thanks for stopping by, and invite a friend to read this blog.

Shalom and blessings,

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author 

Word Games (something to do)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Wednesday August 13, 2025 in my corner of blog land. Not sure we have ever spent much time on this topic over fifteen years, but the title says it all in overview form.

At the Collins dictionary site, they frequently feature a game where one can match synonyms to selected words. My wife likes to play a word game where one creates three, four, and five letter words from a set of specific letters. It helps pass time at restaurants.

For word game perusal, check out

Free Online Word Games | USA TODAY

USA Today

Free Online Word Games | USA TODAY USA Today https://games.usatoday.com › category › word About this result related to USA Today Play your favorite word games online for free, brought to you by Games USA Today.https://games.usatoday.com › category › word

About this result related to USA Today

Play your favorite word games online for free, brought to you by Games USA Today.

Books Being Read

I recently began an interesting read put together by one of the grandsons of the late Bess and Harry Truman. Its title, "Dear Harry, Love Bess." The book is a collection of love letters spanning twenty years between the Trumans. They follow sequence and aren't too cut and dry in tone.

I submitted a story to a publication called Magnets and Ladders. It's a fictional story about a fictional writer who makes the best choice but perhaps not the right choice. I'll post a snippet next time.

Until next time, thanks for dropping by. May the Lord bless and keep us always.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

Sussudio (Phil Collins, '80s hit)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Monday August 4, 2025 in my corner of blog-land. Mild weather is are lot these summer days. Mostly sunny, too.

I heard the Phil Collins song, Sussudio, played on a station from northern Michigan earlier today, UPS 98.5.

Looking up the title, it is said to mean something and nothing at the same time; It is allusion to a girl that Phil Collins liked, or fantasy of loving an older woman, according to online info.

I have a couple expletivies that are self-made but can only recall them when the mood is exactly right. One is 'gosh darnit'.

Another is, O) sugarfoot.

How is your self-made vocabulary list? Go ahead, share one or two in the comments.

Until next time, God bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell

 

Collins Language Learning Blog (Harper-Collins)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Occasionally, I like to share something I have read and learned with you. This post will meet that objective.

Below, I am pasting a learning quiz of sorts from the Collins Dictionary Language Learner Blog.

I'll give you a spoiler: either of the word spellings for these specific words are said to be okay. However, one spelling is said to be preferred over the other.

I also want to thank you for dropping by and paying this blog and me a visit! Okay, the word post coming up

July 14, 2025

Which is correct: rack your brains or wrack your brains; rack and ruin or wrack and ruin; nerve-racking or nerve-wracking? This article tells you which you should use.

rack your brains

If you rack your brains, you try very hard to think of something. For example:

She began to rack her brains to remember what had happened at the nursing home. 

The correct verb to use is ‘rack’ but the phrase wrack your brains is also commonly used.

rack and ruin

If you say that a place is going torack and ruin, you are emphasizing that it is slowly becoming less attractive or less pleasant because no-one is bothering to look after it.

Wrack and ruin is also commonly used, although ‘rack’ is considered the standard usage.

nerve-racking

A nerve-racking situation or experience makes you feel very tense and worried.

They spent a nerve-racking day waiting. 

It was more nerve-wracking than taking a World Cup penalty.

‘Nerve-racking’ is the standard usage, but nerve-wracking is also commonly used.

The presentation of a speech can be a nerve-wracking experience.

All opinions expressed on this blog are those of the individual writers, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Collins, or its parent company, 

The Lord bless and keep us until next we meet.

David C. Russell

Mellow Rock

 

From Another Part Of My Journey (David C. Russell)

Hello Grafted In And On The Journey Reader,

Today is Thursday, July 17, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

I am reflecting this week on my faith journey of the past 55 years. This reflection was brought on by news of the passing of Bible Expositor and teacher, Dr. John Macarthur. He had a radio program called, 

Grace to You. Many of his teachings are on YouTube or at the Grace To You Website.

I became aware of him when eighteen years-old and a freshman at the then Detroit Bible College. I wasn't a regular listener to him but did listen when doing so.

I am somewhat like him in personality and in my fiction writing. We both tend to say what we think!

I leave you with two examples below out of respect for Dr. Macarthur's legacy, and as a reminder to ourselves that people will recall us from their journey and have an opinion of what we leave behind.

To many, Dr. Macarthur was uncompromising. You will sense this if choosing to check out what is posted below.

John MacArthur Q&A: Why is today's Lutheran church so liberal?YouTube Preach Christ or Die!!

Feb 27, 2024

Lutheran churches have deviated from Luther's original teachings, especially in the areas of baptism and communion.

John MacArthur: EVIL CHRISTIAN COMPROMISE by 5 MINUTE CHRISTIANITY on YouTube. Play on Google. 4:58

John MacArthur: EVIL CHRISTIAN COMPROMISEYouTube 5 MINUTE CHRISTIANITY

May 21, 2022

John MacArthur warns about the dangers of compromising the Gospel by joining forces with the world, citing examples from the Lutheran church and the Bible.

Myself:  I still nurture my faith which has changed over the years to now include elements of Jewish spirituality. I write this within my fiction rather than make it my fiction as previous. I will answer to God for this choice, and am aware of this.

Meantime, God bless and keep us on our journey!

David C. Russell, Author

Mellow Rock

 

Quit Complaining - YouTube · RealJessicaRose 26.3K+ views · 5 years ago

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Tuesday July 15 in my corner of blog land.

First, our post title is, Quit Complaining.  It features a music video on YouTube that you may type in and enjoy the visual and the accompanying song by Jessica Rose.

One of the stories in my forthcoming self-anthology is titled, The Chronic Complainer.

You may read this story by pressing enter on the next line:

https://spillwords.com/the-chronic-complainer

I am it's author, David C. Russell.

Online, I found out these are common complaints by humans living in the developed world:

- forty-hour jobs

- spoilers

- bad customer service

- roadside litter and or people who litter

- robo-calls

people cutting in a waiting line

not being able to connect to the internet

I plead guilty to a few of the above. I also probably would have been a grumbler were I one of the multitude who made up the Exodus from enslavement in Egypt to a place called the promise land.

Does complaining help us feel better?

Yes, when actually complaining, but shortly thereafter doesn't that affect wear off?

Something to think about until our next visit.

I appreciate you dropping by, and as always, comment or hello is welcomed!

God bless and keep us!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell

 

No Longer A Slave (Acoustic, Wesleyan Southern University Singers)

No Longer Slaves | University Singers at Freedom's Hill Chapel YouTube · Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Wednesday, July ninth in my corner of blog land. How goes it today, this season?

Writing and planning writing have been at the forefront of my life activity recently. I figure it will take up to three months to birth my forthcoming title, "From The Red Chair", a short story collection of about 11,000 words total. The theme, finding mental health.

Steps to birth include: paying the editor; blogging and promoting on GoodReads and elsewhere; re-reading manuscript after edit to approve or make corrections; formatting and a cover design; publishing to Draft2Digital and some other popular platforms; publish on Google Play as an auto-narrated book; promote, relax, celebrate.

My father used to often claim that anything worthwhile takes time and effort. I agree with dad.

The title of my post is also a song found on YouTube. The performers are a small ensemble from Southern Wesleyan University located in the USA. Freedom from enslavement is a personal choice, and a choice aided by someone, something, and one's God.

The alternative is freedom to be a human being, human doing.

Until next time we visit, feel free to say hello, comment, and may God bless and keep us!

No Longer Slaves | University Singers at Freedom's Hill Chapel

YouTube · Southern Wesleyan University

1.1K+ views · 4 years ago

About this result related to YouTube 

Story: Etudes and Inventions (David C. Russell, Mellow Rock)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

This post is somewhat celebrative in nature! Welcome to my corner of blog land as we enjoy July 1, 2025. Also, sentiments to our Canadian readers, and Happy Canada Day to you!

The following is a story I wrote for a contest by Reedsy Editing online. Out of over 300 stories, it was approved and is posted at the contest URL below.

A young adult recalls a summer nearly ten years prior when he was a pre-teenager. For me, that was years ago but in retrospect, fun to recall what is remembered.

Here is the URL, which I cannot turn into a link.

 

https://blog.reedsy.com/short-story/3bflb3/

I know the story will be available to read, like, and comment on through the third of July.

https://blog.reedsy.com/short-story/3bflb3/

Until next post, God bless and keep us. Enjoy this season and value the lessons we learn.

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

 

Speak No Ill Chofetz Chaim Daily

Hello and Sabbath Greetings Grafted In Readers,

This post we are going to look at some advisements on how to tame our speech, our tongue. There is a Jewish website devoted to improving one's speech named after a nineteenth century Jewish Author from Poland whose name is Chofetz Chaim.

Below are a few advisements taken from the website, Chofetz Chaim Daily. These are short and concise advisements.

I hope you derive benefit from these nuggets of wisdom. Let me know!

Note: LH means Lashon Hara, evil speech.

Chofetz Chaim Daily 1 Taamuz 2:3 If one was in group of 3 that heard LH, SOME say that he may repeat the story, because we assume it is now public knowledge. However, even this view only allows random repeating, not with intention to spread story. 2:4 Applies only to those who heard in group of 3 Chofetz Chaim Daily

25

Jun

CHOFETZ CHAIM 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 30 Sivan 2:1 The sin of LH increases with amount of people listening to you speak. 2:2 Something that can be understood as neutral/slightly negative is mutar to say before three people. It will get back to the subject so the speaker obviously is not intending for the negative interpretation.

24

Jun

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 29 Sivan 1:8 Asur to write or hint LH. 1:9 Asur even if one degrades himself at the same time.

23

Jun

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 28 Sivan 1:5 It doesnt matter who is asking for information, it is always asur to speak LH. 1:6 Asur even if it will cause a financial loss, even job loss. 1:7 Asur to speak LH even if it will create an awkward/embarrassing situation.

22

Jun

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 26 Sivan. Beginning of LH laws 1:1 Asur to speak negatively about anyone. If true, called LH. If false, Motsi Shem Ra. Biblical source: Lo selech Rachil 1:2 This is the specific verse for LH, there are many other sins one transgresses as well. Chofetz Chaim Daily 27 Sivan 1:3 Someone who habitually speaks LH is called

19

Jun

 Chofetz Chaim Daily 24 Sivan. 13)Midvar Sheker tirchak, if its a lie. 14)Vihalachta bidrachav, to act like Hashem and not speak LH. This concludes positive commandments. Chofetz Chaim Daily 25 Sivan Arurin: 1)Arur makeh reiehu basaser. Curse for one who speaks LH. 2) Arur mashgeh iver baderech. Curse for one who places stumbling block 3)Arur asher lo yakim es divrei

18

Jun

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 23 Sivan 11)Es Hashem Elokecha tira. Fear G-d. 12) Limud HaTorah. One could have been learning instead of speaking LH

17

Jun

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 22 Sivan 9)V’kidashto. Do not speak LH about a Kohen in front of him. 10)Kabed es avicha v’es imecha. Also applies to step parents and older brother

16

 

Chofetz Chaim Daily 21 Sivan 7)Umikdashi tiraoo. Do not speak LH in shul. 8)V’hadarta pnei zaken. Do not speak LH about a chacham or old person, definitely not in front of them.Chofetz 

Note: For more detailed study of these advisements see "Ethics of Speech Archive" at torah.org.

May God bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

From My Red Chair Part Four: Make Memories! (Mellow Rock)

Hello Grafted in Readers,

Today is Wednesday June 25, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

We have had a multi-day heatwave here with temps in the mid nineties most afternoons and low seventies overnight. Cooler today as I send this blog post into the blogosphere.

Thanks Thanks Thanks

According to statistics viewed this morning, sixty-one persons have viewed my story,

The Chronic Complainer, posted at:

https://spillwords.com/the-chronic-complainer

and if you are or were among those readingh, my sincerest thanks to you! It is still there for those choosing to read!

Making Memories

I woke to a radio station playing traditional jazz and song standards this morning, WBGO in Newar, NJ. The host played a song by Stevie Wonder from 1972, and mentioned that same year he and the Rolling Stones toured together in the U.S.A.

I found this little snippet describing their concert from RollingStone.cxom

rolling-stones-stevie-wonder-u…

 

 In the spring of 1972, Stevie Wonder released Music of My Mind and the Rolling Stones put out Exile on Main Street. Both albums were instant hits, with the former’s reaching Number 21 on the Billboard 200 and Exile reaching Number One. So when the Stones recruited Wonder, then just 22, to open up their summer tour that year, it was an unstoppable combo that became even more exciting when Wonder joined the Stones at four dates for a medley of his 1966 hit “Uptight (Everything’s Alright)” and the Stones’ hit from the previous year, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” as the encore.

On July 26th, the second of two nights at New York City’s Madison Square Garden, Mick Jagger helped Wonder to his piano and the horn section got loose. Eventually they kicked into “Uptight” with its trumpet flourishes and Wonder sang the song with his own band backing him up. Jagger snuck up behind Wonder and clapped his hands, and eventually helped him to center stage when the song transitioned into “Satisfaction,” which Jagger took the lead on. Wonder joined in on the “and I try” parts, and the two singers started dancing in one of the most jubilant onstage rave-ups of their respective careers, jumping and holding hands and throwing things around the stage.

I recall some memories of my own in 1972 when but twenty years-old. Most are fond recalls, extraordinary to me at the time, but in hindsight ordinary for a twenty-something person. Thankfully, we humans may focus on our good, joyful, embraced memories more than the darker, dissatisfying memories of life.

This concludes our little series giving some focus to mental health. Make memories worth keeping!

Until next visit, may God bless and keep us!

David C. Russell, Author

Mellow Rock

     

Story: The Chronic Complainer (David C. Russell

Hello Grafted In Reader,

As a part of our series, From My Red Chair, we have been focusing on mental health themes the last few posts.

In this post, you are invited to read my story, The Chronic Complainer. The Main Character, Haley, is in therapy to treat her chronic complaining, loneliness, and cynicism.

This story is at:

https://spillwords.com/the-chronic-complainer

and I am its author.

If you like the story please indicate on the tab to vote yes once read. Thank you!

May the Lord continue to bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

     

Part Three: Mental Health Tips (Mellow Rock, David C. Russell)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Friday June 13, 2025 in my corner of blog land. No, I'm not given to many of the Friday The Thirteenth advisements that are popular in Western culture. I do like a good mystery read, classic Edgar Alan Poe or Alfred Hitchcock cinema suits me fine.

This post is part three in our series focused on mental health and well-being. I am currently revising a small collection of six short stories with mental health as the overall theme. I will say more of this topic in future posts.

Here is our tip for this post from National Health Service based in the UK:

There are lots of things you could try to help build stronger and closer relationships:

Do

if possible, take time each day to be with your family, for example, try arranging a fixed time to eat dinner together

arrange a day out with friends you have not seen for a while

try switching off the TV to talk or play a game with your children, friends or family

have lunch with a colleague

visit a friend or family member who needs support or company

volunteer at a local school, hospital or community group.

Yes, we are challenged to be naturally social these days or so it seems. Some of us may be more private or outgoing than others. Probably working within our temperment to be inclusive is a way to practice some of the above tips. Your thoughts welcomed!

Until next post, thank you for dropping by. May the Lord bless and keep us!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

Part II: From My Red Chair (David C. Russell, Mellow Rock)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Monday, June 9, 2025 in my corner of blog land. The school year ends later this week for students K/12 in my corner of blog land..

We are spending a few posts focused on mental health observations, and also sharing progress and snippets from my forthcoming title, From My Red Chair.

This is a self-anthology of five short stories with the indirect theme of mental health issues facing story characters.

Today, we are going to scratch the surface on the following:

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) suggests several tips for improving mental health, including prioritizing sleep, engaging in physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet. 

Note: According to the Governmental Agency, Center for Disease Control, 43% of us are overweight in North America, and 67% (two-thirds) of us in North America are on the obesity continuum. We eat a lot and often.

As to sleep, the NIMH cites favorable stats. we're doing pretty good overall! North American adults sleep an average of 6.8 hours per day, and the recommendation is seven hours sleep daily.

My biggest challenge is the bedtime snack: faves are corregated chips or popped corn.

What is one of your comfort food faves? Do comment please!

Until next visit around (June 13) God bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

Story samples at:

https://www.spillwords.com/author/davidcrussell

From My Red Chair (Mellow Rock)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is June 5, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

For a few posts, we are going to touch on mental health. Basically, find wisdom from reputable places to help our own understanding of God-given mental health.

I have a book that will be released in a few months of five short stories. Each has a situation related to mental health of the character or characters.

Its title, From My Red Chair" the same as this 'mini-series.'

Our first observation, today, is pasted from the National Institute of Mental Health, NIMH. Thankfully, this agency still exists!

OBSERVATION

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is more than the absence of a mental illness—it’s essential to your overall health and quality of life.

Note: Hmm, mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. That's my takeaway from this snippet.

If you'd like to share your takeaway from this, please comment.

I will be back to share another observation for us in five days.

Yes, you may share this and invite others along, too!

May God continue to bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

Popular Lyrics, New Words? (mellow rock)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Monday June 2, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

First, to those who have a Judeo-Christian faith practice, may you have a refreshing celebration of Pentecost (Shavuot) in Hebrew. In some circles Shavuot began June 1 and runs until sunset June 3. In other circles, this holiday commemorating God giving his Word to the Children of Israel as they traveled to new land from Egypt, is celebrated June 8-9 this year.   

Pentecost or Shavuot had been observed for centuries prior to the CE (common era) fifty days after Passover and a Springtime festival in the Holy Land. The Christian world considers this holiday to be the beginnings of the church. 

Words

I found this online concerning the most popular word in song lyrics: here's the answer.

Love, love, love

I got love

You got love

We got love

Everybody’s got looooooove!

I offer you a few words that we can all use on occasion in conversation

- panegoric:  A eulogistic oration or writing:

- pundit:  a messenger, Monsignor, Reverend;

- obviate:  to remove a problem or make it unnecessary;

- obsequious:  Someone too eager to agree or help someone.

Paraphrased from either Collins Online, or Cambridge online dictionaries, respectively.

Writing News **

"From My Red Chair" is a four-story collection around the theme of mental health. Plans to edit and publish are to begin this week. I hope to offer it to interested readers in about four months.

Until next visit, The Lord bless and keep us. Happy conversations, too!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author 

For Word Game Lovers from Collins Dictionary Blog

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is May 29, 2025 in my corner of blog land. I wanted to share a fun possibility with you. This was discovered in a recent Collins Online Blog post credited to one Rachel Quin.

It may remind some of you of the game show, Lingo, that aired in the United States during the early 2000s. Feel free to comment or just say hello!

Note: Over Summer it is my hope to move to SubStack and hope you may come along with me. After all we are on the journey!

11 unusual 5-letter words to kick off your next Wordle game

1st Feb 2022

If you’ve spent any time on social media over the last few weeks, you’ve probably noticed your feeds being slowly taken over by black, yellow and green squares. Wordle is the name of the game, and this simple daily word game has got everybody playing with language.

Given words are our forte, we’ve compiled a list of unusual five-letter words to fuel your next Wordle sprint. With the perfect blend of vowels and consonants you’d never expect, you might just crush it on the first try. We’d also added definitions, because at least if you don’t win, you learned a new word, right?

P.S. Don’t you worry, we’ve tested all of these options in the game, so you can rest assured they’re available in the Wordle dictionary. Good luck!

ADIEU

Adieu means the same as goodbye. It also has four vowels, what’s not to love?

 

TARES

Any of various vetch plants, such as Vicia hirsuta (hairy tare) of Eurasia and North Africa.

SOARE

A now obsolete noun meaning a young hawk, but one that does appear in the Wordle dictionary.

DUCAT

Any of various former European gold or silver coins, especially those used in Italy or the Netherlands.

OUIJA

a board on which are marked the letters of the alphabet; answers to questions are spelt out by a pointer or glass held by the fingertips of the participants, and are supposedly formed by spiritual forces.

CAROM

 

In snooker and billiards, a shot in which the cue ball is caused to contact one object ball after another.

ERGOT

A disease of cereals and other grasses caused by fungi.

CRAIC

If you are talking about something that you did and you say, ‘the craic was great’, or ‘it was a good craic’, you mean that you had a really good time, especially because everyone was talking, joking, and laughing.

SQUAB

A young unfledged bird, especially a pigeon.

ENOKI

An edible mushroom with a long, slender stem, a small, yellowish cap, and yellowish gills.

 

AZURE

Azure is used to describe things that are bright blue.

Got a favourite starter word? Share it, or just share your Wordle scores, with us over on Twitter at @CollinsDict.

You can also visit our Wordle Helper, a word-finding tool to help you narrow down your choices of five-letter words based on the results in your Wordle game.

God bless and keep us,

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

Who Are You When I'm Not Lookin (Blake Shelton)

Hello Grafted in Reader,

Today Is Tuesday May 27, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

We just celebrated Memorial Day here in the U.S. This is a day to remember those who gave themselves in service to our country. This includes military personnel but in the recent past has been extended to include a wider array of servant types.

I recently had the pleasure to post opn a Reddit Subgroup and was surprised by the comments my post generated, humbled too, and notice by statistics it attracted hundreds of views.

The group to which I posted is a faith matters group, and most there did not support my faith perspective, or those holding a similar persuasion. Few were kind, most were out to correct my errant ways.

When you and I encounter situations like this, it may be the Creator's way of letting us see our true colors, who we are. I am glad to have had three days of dialogue into this aspect of my being.

Now, I am off to have a fresh coffee and move on to being the author, David C. Russell.

I invite your hello or comment! Until next time, God bless and keep us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell

 

If I Could Change The World (classic hit, Share, 1980s)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is Thursday, May 8, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

The title for this post reminds me of the voiced saying, "If people would only ..." You fill in the only do or say what. This is usually said out of exasperation and frustration.

What experience suggests to me is that we may be better to conclude, "If I could change myself."

I have been following the authorship of a gentleman who is now retired, about my age, formerly an Anglican Priest, Lutheran pastor, Professor of theology, etc. His uniqueness is an ongoing struggle with stuttering. It's a trait readily observed but in the light of his total being, acceptable - at least for me. All these above identifiers have come about over his lifetime. The same can be said of each of us.

I recently finished a story titled, Making A Facade. The protagonist is a thirty-something who found the course of life difficult in his late teens and twenties. He experiences struggle because of his perception of what occurs in his life. Eventually life becomes acceptable to him and even enjoyed. I will let you know if this story reaches publication somewhere.

As a reminder, I do have several stories posted at:

https://spillwords.com/author/davidcrussell

Until our next visit, may the Lord bless and keep us! Thanks for your visit!

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Authorr

                             

I'm Pressing On The Upward Way (Hymn title)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is Monday, April 14, 2025 in my corner of blog land. For Christianity this is Holy Week. For its Mother faith, Judaism, it is the season of Passover. Each in its unique way celebrates deliverance by God from an oppressive power, force, way of being, way of life!

If you are an observant faith person, I wish you all the best as you celebrate your seasonal tradition be that Holy Week or Pesach.

Our last visit was March 3, 2025. Much has happened since that time for yours truly.

- I replaced my Acer All-in-one computer with the same made by Lenovo. 

- Stories for possible publication have been submitted to three different online venues. Results pending.

- Our family dog, Millie, underwent a minor procedure to alleviate bowel issues. She is much better today!

- One granddaughter begins her experience with middle school Track this week. We are hopeful she will knip her anxieties and find this to be a rewarding short-term experience!

Yesterday in our church service, the pianist played the Spiritual, "You've Gotta Walk That Lonesome Valley".

I learned this song and truth at age seven in our school music class. I find it inducing encouragement and personal responsibility simultaneously. Much truth in the lines,

You've gotta walk this lonesome valley,  you've gotta walk it by yourself

Nobody else can walk it for you;  you've gotta walk it by yourself.

Until our next visit, May HaShem (Almighty God) bless, keep, and make His face to shine on us.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

Come What May (country song, Colvin and Earle)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is Monday, March 3, 2025 in my corner of blog land. Much change affot for many folks here in the good old U.S.A.

Hence the choice of title for this post, a song titled, Come What May.

The annual observance of the Catholic tradition of Lent begins this coming Wednesday. It is a period of introspection, self-exam, prayer, fasting, and doing good to others. For those who relish this tradition, I would commend to your reading or listening a book titled, The School Of Jesus Crucified, by the late Father Ignatius. It is a book centered on the passion of Christ and written as if it were Christ giving the discourse.

In Judaism, the Festival of Purim recently occurred. This commemorates the Biblical story of Esther being used by HaShem (God) to put down the efforts of the evil man Haman to have the Jews wiped out.

In both cases, God is the centre of the observation.

On a third note, "Biblical Archaeology Review" celebrates its 50th anniversary this Spring. They have put out an issue focused on the last 50 years in Archaeology, discoveries, and changes within the discipline itself. Google "Biblical Archaeology Review" for more info.

Reading month is underway! I am currently in my second read for the month, the autobio of former Vice-President, Michael Pence. He is its author and audio narrator. My first read was by author Dr. Doug James, The Life and Times of Walter Cronkite. My third read will be a work of fiction.

I commend all the above to you for your potential further exploration. Meantime, thanks for dropping by, inviting someone else to do the same, and may HaShem bless and keep us until we meet up again!

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

 

Looking Back Briefly (topic by Author)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is February 26, Wednesday, in my corner of blog land.

The frigid, frosty weather has broken and in my corner of blog land we are enjoying above-freezing temperatures though under ten degrees Celsius during the day. It instills hope for the emergence of Spring.

I turned another year older, and still get a tad anxious when change is in progress!

This post, I think about the business landscape in my corner of blog land and North America.

I want to pay tribute to some murchandisers that are now becoming has-beens.

I was in my twenties when department stores Robert Hall and MontGomery Ward closed shop. Sears, happened a few years later as did K-Mart.

Now the flourish of closures seems to be a fad of sorts:

BowFlex, Big Lots, JoAnn Fabrics, several Rite Aid stores, Big Lots, Red Lobster, Spirit Airlines, and perhaps more to come including the cut-back on Fed Government employees.

I loved the prices of products at Big Lots, the biscuits served with meals at Red Lobster, my wife bought her yarn at JoAnn Fabrics, Rite Aid was not only a pharmacy but a good stop for needed incidentals.

BowFlex made a portable treadmill of sorts that one could conveniently store under a piece of furniture.

K-Mart had come up with a snappy jingle in the '70s.

What is a memory you have from a business that is either about to close, or has closed?

The reason according to economists for the current diminution is interest rates. Also that old bugger, slow sales and patronage.

Something like a down-turn seems to be on the horizon doesn't it?

The challenge is in whatever circumstance one finds they are in, be content. Or adopt the slogan, This too shall pass.

Until our next visit, thanks for stopping by. Invite a friend to read posts past and present here at Grafted In.

HaShem bless and keep us,

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

Light For My Path: From Whence (topic)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is Thursday February 20, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

Frigid temps and recent snowfall have about convinced me that 'climate change' occurs as intended every year, when scheduled by the King Of The Universe! End of topic.

Moving on, I want to share a recently written poem with you. It's based on a writing exercise titled, The World Is A Poem.

I reference recent news items and try to do so poetically.

Tell me what you think in a comment, OK?

Rock Hall Of Fame

David Russell

April is filled with ups and downs

New MLB season, NCAA crowns

Its men’s winning basketball team

After taxes filed and people scream.

April showers with burst of Spring

Add to the luster April brings.

Game on, too for the rock hall of fame,

1200 decide inductees named.

Billy, Joe, Cyndi, Mariah

Are but four names out to try-ya,

Time after time one may muse,

Catch me when I fall if you choose

Dream lover take me away says a third,

You’re so beautiful to me - Joe can be absurd.

Chubby asks how low can you go? Let’s do the twist;

Outcast rebounds with hip-hop few know;.

April to be sure will come and go

Can you name the 2024 inductees?

Do you rereally, really know?

Who won SB59 this year?

Or the local fishing tournaments or even picture of the year?

Will Canada become the fifty-first state?

How bout Panama Canal, or even Kuwait?

Miss America, Universe, anyone know?

Probably not, that tradition’s so old.

 

 End

I am currently in the middle of creating a lengthy story titled, Order Please. My main character, named Van, recalls his younger years of life lived from the standpoint of being on the Autism Spectrum. It is "creative nonfiction" inspired by my son and daughter-in-law's family unit. Thanks to son and daughter-in-law for being examples of ongoing dedication to parenting.

On the other end, I am reading "Still Alice" by author and Neruo-scientist, Lisa Genova. Her main character has developing onset of Alzheimer's disease at age fifty. It is informative, entertaining, inspirational and thought provoking all in one. I recommend!

In less than two weeks, National Reading Month will be here and celebrated across North America. Will you join me in reading things that interest you during this time?

Let's do this together!

The title of this post, Light For My Path, is inspired by an online devotion published by 

The Evangelical Lutheran Synod.

A Bible verse and hymn text make up the collection of readings. One can also opt to hear an audio recording of a given reading.

Light for my path, also describes the role of God (HaShem) in one's life.

Light can be inner clarity, a thought or idea, something heard, something seen, something touched, something tasted. Add another example if you'd like.

Until next visit, may the light for your path instill tranquility and onward progress to you and your journey.

Thanks for stopping by.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

  

YouTube • Kdin - Topic If I was a Houseplant

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is February 12, 2025 in my corner of blog land.

We are getting snowfall here, and four to six inches are predicted. Here is in lower Michigan, so nothing extraordinary being Winter.

A few weeks ago, My wife and granddaughter gave me a house-plant, a philodendron. I had a plant like this during my college years, so have two companions during the day when all are gone from home.

My plant and our King Charles Spaniel. 

I did a little Google session to learn some care tips:

- Soil?  That's up to the plant owner.

Water:  Once a week generally.

Coffeegrounds and egg shells?  Use sparingly.

If you wish to add any tips, do comment.

I found a song titled, If I Were A House Plant, (post title). You can hear this ditty on YouTube. It's genre is mellow rock for sure.

Until next visit, take care, Happy season of life, and we'll talk reading and writing before March, which is National Reading Month.

I have four books to read during March. That's next post.

May Adonai bless and keep you and all you hold significant.

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell

 

I Saw The Sign ('90's pop song)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Monday February 3, 2025, in my corner of blog land. Winter has been here with its most recent gift, four inches of snow. Meltdown occurring today as temperatures will be slightly above freezing and sunny, yay!

I guess we are to have six more weeks of winter as the legendary groundhog (woodchuck) reportedly did not see his shadow on Feb. 2nd. Hmmm.

For reading, are you thinking about indulging in Reading Month, which is annually held in March?

Currently, I am reading a historical fiction novel by one Susan Barker. It's title, The Incarnations, is set in China, Beijing to be precise. It can be rather gruesome on occasion, but skip those parts if so inclined. The main characters are a married couple and their eight-year-old daughter named, Echo.

Next, I will be dalving into a couple titles by Lisa Genova, medical fiction titles around neruologic issues.

Health Note

We used to have a family friend, Joe R, who would refer to myself and my brother as "the boys with the two first names."

Here is a little quip about a disease that could be described similarly:

Biliary Cholangitis: (From KidsHealth online

According to KidsHealth, "biliary cholangitis" refers to an infection of the bile ducts, often causing symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, chills, and sometimes jaundice (yellowing of the skin), and is considered a serious medical condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics or surgery to relieve any blockage causing the infection; it's important to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect biliary cholangitis. 

On our next visit later this month, I will share an excerpt from a work in progress by yours truly.

Thanks for stopping by. I'm waiting to hear a comment from you or a simple greeting.

May the Lord bless and keep you always,

Mellow Rock

David C. Russell, Author

 

My Love Has No Bottom, My Love Has No Top (Lyric, singer Nancy Wilson)

Hello Grafted In Readers,

Today is Friday, January 24, 2025 in my corner of blog-land.

For America, it has been a pretty full month of events. We have a former U.S. President back in the role and whitehouse as of this past Monday at noontime.

Fires continue to roar and upend the lives of people in Southern California. They probably wish it would rain, pour, do something to quench the blazes.

I saw this caption in an online version of the "Christian Science Monitor" email news highlight:

Monitor Highlights

LA fires claimed places of worship, but congregations still are helping others

This story is about COMMUNITY

Organized religion provides space for worship and spiritual study. Amid disaster, it can also provide a built-in system of caring and an active faith.

Kudos to those in Spiritual communities who are loving their neighbor and themselves simultaneously!

SideNote:  If you have access to a mobile device or desktop computer, are a lover of modern western music, check out the mix on

"wjct radio HD3, Anthology.

You will hear songs from the past that may spark memories from your life at that time.

Thanks for dropping by, and perhaps we will meet again soon!

The presence of HaShem (God) be with us always.

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author

 

Help! I Need Somebody (The Beetles Standard)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is Friday, January 17 in my corner of blog land. Most of this post will concern a request of me to you.

Simply stated, If you are reading this blog for the first time, or the 100th time, would you please say Yes, or leave a sentence in the Post Comment?

I recently learned that there are statistics and there are statistics.

What that means is there are Google Analytics one can view for a more treu statistical report of blog readership.

The statistics easily accessed include readers maybe, and bots that crawl the web and notice a given blog. So, one can have for example, eight readers and two bots for a total of ten. Only the analytics, as I understand all this, represent a more valid picture of the readership. Hmmmm.

If you can do this at any time, or before February 15, 2025, fantastic, and a big thanks from me!

On the lighter side, Just finished a rather dramatic title, "Ends With Us", author is Colleen Hoover. It's a story about spousal abuse ending with a definite decision to do so.

Now, about to read some short stories by the late Rex Stout, mystery writer from the 20th century.

Until next visit, may God bless and keep us and allow his presence to shine on us, and shine from us to our world!

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell,  Author

 

The Israelites (Desmond Dekker And the Aces, 1970)

Hello Grafted In Reader,

Today is January 7, 2025 in my corner of blog land. Winter is here. Some snow on walks, temps in the mid twenties and low teens, Fahrenheit, daytime, nighttime, respectively. Burr.

For reading pleasure, I am embarking on a 1935 novel by Sinclair Lewis, "It Cannot Happen Here". It's 'political science' imagining democracy succumbing to a totalitarian regime. This happens over time in developed subtle ways via the author's construction. Well worth reading!

This post,(The Israelites, its title) like earlier ones from some time ago, takes a brief look at the heritage Christians are indebted to Judaism for passing on to us. I am posting an online overview concerning the First Century existence of a movement known as the Pharisees. The "church" castigates them wholly, and pictures them by behavior and expression as ignorant, uninformed, self-absorbed, self-righteous unloving claiming to serve HaShem (God).

Again, this is an overview not an exhaustive study found through the Google A.I. resource.

I would assert the Pharisees generally exemplify devotion, inclusivity, attempting to be God-fearing, sincere, not entirely misdirected as many would assert. Here is the excerpted presentation in part, thanks to Google A.I.

Off hand, also thank Suzanne J (reader) for her interest in understanding this topic in general. Let's keep learning!

The Pharisees were a Jewish social movement and school of thought in the Levant during the time of Second Temple Judaism. Following the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, Pharisaic beliefs became the foundational, liturgical, and ritualistic basis for Rabbinic Judaism.Pharisees

Dissolved: 73 AD

Founded: 167 BC

Headquarters: Jerusalem

Historical leaders: Simeon ben Shetach; Salome Alexandra; Hyrcanus II

Ideology: Theocracy; Oral Torah; Populism;

 

Pharisees & Sadducees | Definition, Beliefs & Differences Video

As also members of the Sanhedrin, we could think of the Pharisees as the middle-class Jewish rulers of Jesus's day. Holding jobs like merchant, they were more on the level of the masses. Yes, they too were usually wealthier, but they weren't, shall we say, out of touch with the common man.

Pharisees & Sadducees | Definition, Beliefs & Differences

Study.com

Comments welcome. Hope we meet again in the near future. May Adonai bless and keep us!

Mellow Rock,

David C. Russell, Author