GRAB BAG OF THOUGHTS

It is hard to believe that summer is nearly over. The usual sweltering heat we experience in August seems to be more oppressive to me this year. Perhaps it is because it is accompanied by my hot flashes. Oh, the joys of being a woman!

I have blamed the heat on my inability to concentrate on much of anything these days. Oh, thoughts have been ping-ponging around in my brain - bumping against each other, but producing nothing of any significance. I have the best intentions of writing - of working on finishing my third novel - but it seems like my time just evaporates.

Somethings grab my attention - like this Michael Vick fiasco. I think the thing that bothers me most about all of this is our legal system. It's nothing like we see on Law and Order - you know those episodes where the prosecutor's office shreds the cases presented by the expensive legal defense lawyers. In the real world, money seems to talk a lot louder than justice. It isn't about being guilty or innocent - it is about manipulating the system to get by with as much as possible. And, celebrity status seems to grant a person an unfair advantage. What makes Michael Vick a valuable, contributing human being? He takes a football and throws it to another guy who tries to run a few yards before being tackled. This skill, evidently, is so profound, that it can be used to barter a minimal sentence for completely barbaric behavior. (To say nothing of the ridiculous salary he has been paid to play football.)

Then there is the renewed contract to publish OJ's book. Who is going to buy it? I know the Goldman's are obsessed with finding a way to make Simpson pay for "getting away with murder" but it just isn't going to happen. The only people who aren't "over" OJ are the families of his victims. Of course, OJ is more than happy to perform anytime someone shines the spotlight on him, and his ability to still attract any measure of press attention is nothing short of amazing. So, while I can empathize with the Goldman family, I just think this case was another great example of money manipulating justice.

The situation with the miners is worrisome. I feel so sorry for the families of the men who were lost - and sorry for the rescuers who gave their lives to find them. But, I think enough is enough now. It has been too long - and too dangerous to continue. Just a sad thing.

Oh - and now I think twice when I drive over a bridge. Good Grief! That was a scary thing that happened in Minnesota. The old and worn, two lane Huguenot Bridge here in Richmond looks like a great candidate for another disaster to me - so I will try and avoid it.

So, see what I mean? Ping-ponging thoughts. But, I decided to check-in here, so that you all would know I am still living! Just in the Summer slump and looking forward to the cool crisp days of Fall!