...while driving.

I think more people than not are texting or talking on their phones while driving.  I'm serious.  As I drive around, I think more than 50% of drivers are trying to sneak a text message or blatantly take a phone call.   I'm kinda pissed.

I'm not pissed at the kids.   They really don't know any better.   They know the law, they just don't think its a big deal.   They haven't been on this planet long enough to see or experience the consequences of inattentive driving.  They are young and feel bulletproof, but as they get older, as they see more horrific crashes or as they lose friends, they will understand why we shouldn't drive without our full attention on the road.  (Worlds longest sentence?  Sorry Virginia Reischl)  Todays teens live in a different world than adults do.  They are OBSESSED with social media and LIVE AND DIE to know what someone else is doing.  It is sad.  I'm not pissed at the kids.  Kids are kids and for the most part will push the envelope.  As far as their phones while driving?   Heck, all the adults are doing it.

I'm pissed at the adults.   Kids don't listen to what their parents say; they watch what their parents do.  And their parents are taking calls, making calls, and texting as they drive.

Great role modeling parents.  Impressive.

I'm pissed.  These kids need role models and people in their lives to show them how to go about their business.   There clearly aren't role models outside the home for these kids.  Sketchy politicians, lying athletes, overly abusive cops, greedy businessmen are what our kids are exposed to.  It breaks down as follows;  "Keeping up with the Kardashians" is a popular TV show.   How the hell does that happen and what does that say about us?

Parents need to walk a good walk if they expect the same from their kids.

To the adults that feel that rules/laws/guidelines etc. are for "others".....Kiss my ass and get off your phone.

Women

Sometimes I browse personal ads online.  There, I said it.   I look at  Match.com, J-Date (my people), Plenty of Fish, etc.   I like to kill time by looking at women who are looking for men.  When I find an ad that catches my eye, I read the profile.   The "about me" section or the "what I'm looking for" section.

But if I read "where are all the good men?" one more time, I'm going to go looney.

First, it implies that all/most men are bad.   That is not my experience.  Maybe I've been lucky or maybe I've chosen good friends, but the guys I know are good guys.   Most are really good guys.  Guys that don't cheat on their wives or girlfriends; guys that don't lie about where they've been or what they've done; guys that walk a pretty darn good walk.  "Where are all the good men?"  Shut up.  There are good men everywhere.  Certainly there are bad men too, but don't come off as if all men are bad.

Second, it implies that you are a good woman and are clearly deserving of a good man.  We just don't measure up to your elevated standards.  You, the epitome of class, grace and decorum.  Us, simpletons who lie, cheat, and lack character.    Maybe I'm reading too much into this, but I would hope that before popping off about "where are all the good men", you take a look in the mirror and ask yourself what you are deserving of.  

Goodbye

I met you the day after I moved to San Clemente.   It seems like such a short time ago, but it has now been over 11 years.  Do you remember?  It was at the Staples on Avenida Pico and the minute I laid eyes on you I knew I wanted you.   Gosh you were beautiful back then.  Fresh, bold, exciting.

We left the store together and I cannot remember a moment in the past 11 years that you haven't been with me.  You were with me every single school day, waiting patiently at my desk, watching me teach. You were with me every time I had to do some tutoring or test prep outside of school hours.  You never complained.  Not even that time that I spilled a steaming hot coffee all over you.  You were a rock.

Remember our trips?  Vancouver was nice.  Las Vegas was very nice.  But my favorite trip was our road trip to Tucson.  We had a great time and never once did you violate the code; What happens in Tucson Stays in Tucson.

I remember that night I brought that weird woman home.  Remember her?  Pretty as heck but I'm not sure she was playing with a full deck.  You never batted an eye.  You didn't look at me differently afterwards and you allowed me to make my own decisions without any guilt from you.  You were always so accommodating of me spending time with others.  

For 11 years I have trusted you and you have never let me down.  On our hikes you always held up better than me and even if I asked you to carry the bulk of our load, you never balked.

I have used you and abused you and for that I am sorry.  Because of that, I must cut you loose today.  I have gone back to Staples and met another.  She's amazing.

All my best old backpack.  Godspeed.