Morning Open Thread is a daily, copyrighted post, from a host of editors and guest writers. We support our community, invite and share ideas, and encourage thoughtful, respectful dialogue in an open forum.
This series was conceived as a haven where folks can drop in to share conversation, ideas, weather reports, and music. Feel free to leave a note, comment, picture, or tune. As always the diarist gets to sleep in, and may show up long after the post is published. So you know, it's a feature, not a bug.
Pull up a chair, get your cup of tea, coffee, or other favorite morning beverage and join us for a neighborly start to the day ahead.
For those paying attention, we have been more or less out of commission the past few days. Flu first, then bronchitis, then pneumonia. No fun. If you have not had your flu and pneumonia shots, please get them.
If 65 or older, make sure you get the SENIOR flu shot. When I went to my clinic to get my flu shot, I did not know the shot given me was the regular shot. I was supposed to get the stronger dose, but the clinic did not have it, and no one bothered to tell me I was getting the less effective dose for my age. If that happens, you cannot get the stronger shot later. I was stuck with what I got, and I am not a happy camper about that. I found out later the pharmacy a half-mile from my house has the proper shots...free of charge.
Always ask what you are getting. Always!
The pneumonia shots with booster may save your life. As the credit card ad says, “Don’t leave home without it.”
One more thing. If you have not had the latest Shingles shot, do not fail to get it. I didn’t and ended up with the Shingles a few years ago. Believe me, if you get Shingles, it will have your full undivided attention for weeks, months, and possibly years. Recall the worst itch and burning sensation you ever had in your life? Multiply that by a factor of about six...or maybe eleven!
Get your shots, and make sure you get all the boosters recommended. (End of public service announcement)
While looking for a topic, this little news story popped up in my recommended feed. I recall when this first posted. Fellow loved music, especially organ music. I can relate, but cannot imagine the level of dedication he put into his love. He never learned to play, but nevertheless installed a huge three-manual Kimball pipe organ in his home. He lived alone with no family, so this project became his family. When he passed away, his home in Michigan went on the market.
The beautiful pipe organ he installed is valued at a million dollars. However, the modest home went for sale for $130,000. The organ took up a good half the house.
Fortunately, a buyer was found who treasured the find, moving from the west coast to Michigan to buy it, preserve it, and love it.
The follow-up story is about the buyer and the feeling of responsibility he has toward the house and organ.
Finally, the home was visited by an editor from Keyboard Magazine. He plays the instrument.
This is an open thread. Get your cup of favorite morning beverage and snack, pull up a chair and sit with us a spell. What’s going on in your life?