#18: The Enslavement of Sri Lanka. July 26, 2019

I taught in various countries overseas for many years.  Although stationed in certain cities, I was able to travel often and extensively throughout each region.  In my times and travels, I experienced and I saw many wonders.  Many were truly spectacular and wonderful.  Others simply made me wonder, “How can this be?”  Yet it all …

#17: I was Recently Asked About My Best Speech Ever. July 24, 2019

This was an introductory speech to an audience of more than one thousand: 900+ students and their 200 teachers. All were Japanese although everyone at university level understands English to varying degrees. I was also addressing only the English language college, so their skills were already good. I simply had to introduce myself, give a …

# 16: Red Shovel on a Black Door: The Truth Revealed. July 20, 2019

To all of my ex-students, I lied to you in the way back.  I remember telling you that I had seen a work of art in the New Orleans Museum of Art that was entitled A Red Shovel on a Black Door, but that never actually happened.  It was close to being the truth, but …

#15: Time for a Bedtime Story July 14, 2019

The Legend of Soaring Swallow:  A Dragon’s Tale “Ernieee, …Ernest Lee Penchant, you have been in that bath long enough,” called Grandfather.  “It’s time for bed.  Come out now and maybe I’ll tell you a bedtime story.” “Yes, Grandfather,” answered the young boy.  As Grandfather helped him dress for bed, Ernest asked, “So what bedtime …

#14: Besieged in Byblos–the Dangers of Travel July 5, 2019

Besieged in Byblos. One of the best things about traveling overseas is the relative safety of it.  To be sure, you can find yourself in serious trouble, seriously life-threatening situations in any country and almost any city in the world.  But you quickly learn to take precautions and to be wary. While in Egypt, I …

#13: To River Oaksians and Ecolegiates with Love. June 21, 2019

This Goes Out to ALL of My Ex-students of River Oaks Academy plus those at Ecole Classique who I now add. Ecole people, just change a few of the names; my feelings for you are as strong. Regardless of where I taught you, I Write These Words with Great Memories in My Mind, Great Love …

#12: Experience Trumps Knowledge. June 14, 2019

In virtually every case experience trumps mere knowledge of facts. As a cook, here is my example. I will write down for you the entire and precise recipe for one of my signature dishes. after reading it, you will possess all the knowledge that I have. You will know ingredients and measurements, orderly procedure and …

# 11: Besides Kids, Who Doesn’t Like Asparagus? June 13, 2019

Growing asparagus is relatively easy and as carefree as you decide to make it. It can be grown throughout most of the US except in the southernmost regions of the Gulf Coast States, which are too warm and rainy. This plant needs a period of winter freeze and well-draining soil. I live in northwest Georgia …

#10: Lightening Does Strike Twice, I Am Living Proof. June 12, 2019

I have been struck by lightening twice. Both times there were no real ill-effects that were lasting. The first strike occurred when I was in high school, back in the 1970s. I was on the family phone in the kitchen speaking with a friend. There was a thunderstorm at the time, and I had heard …

#9: 8 Ways of Knowing June 1, 2019

I taught in IB (International Baccalaureate) schools for more than two decades.  It purports itself to be the premiere college prep course in the world.  I have my doubts, serious doubts about that claim to fame; but I’ll save that for another time.  For now, suffice it to say it’s a dog and pony show …