One of my editors pointed out a grave error in my last post. I incorrectly stated that the Ottoman Empire was in power, and two World Wars have been fought, since the Cubs last won a pennant. To downtrodden heartsick Cubbies’ fans everywhere, I sincerely apologize. I mistook pennant for the World Series. It has been over a century since the Cubs have won the World Series, not since they won a pennant.
In the first half of the last century the Cubs have in fact won pennants. They were doing OK about the time Einstein was formulating relativity. How could I have forgotten Tinkers to Evers to Chance? Anyway, the Cub’s last hurrah was around the close of WWII and involved that ugly goat incident. It’s pretty much been dashed hopes and heartache since then. But hey, there’s always next year.
We were promised clear weather and temperatures in the mid-fifties today so Lise and I went out to the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge. We were lied to about the weather but at least it was above freezing and only a tiny bit of sleet fell. We got six new species; lesser yellowlegs, Eastern phoebe, tree swallow, golden-crowned kinglet, fox sparrow, and green-winged teal. We missed a few others that have been reported there but it was great to get out. The mammals were out in full force. Muskrats were spaced out about every 30 yards along the berm we were walking.
Muskrat
Ground hog, waiting for me to put in my garden. He’s only an hour drive away.
Turkey vultures waiting for something to die.
On the road up to the refuge there is a combination gas station and liquor store that also sells Lotto tickets. All they’re missing is gun sales and Cubs tickets for true one-stop shopping. They’ve recently added legal services, with a drive-up window. From the gas station clientele I’m guessing white collar crime isn’t their specialty. I’m betting they can help you beat a deer poaching rap though.
Welcome to the firm of Dewey, Cheatum, and Howe. Why spend a bundle when you’re going to lose anyway?
Ed's and Lise's Biggish Years 