You know what I mean with this picture.
Zombies + Taxidermy = Some scary grafted dudes!
No one can call bull on this show. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 24, 2020
November 23, 2020
What A Dumb Education System
Unfortunately, the education system here starts out dumb from the get-go!
As the WSJ today reports, $400 billion out of a $1.4 trillion educational loan portfolio is likely uncollectible.
That's almost 30% bad debt!
But what is unforgivable is that they system is geared towards crappy lending practices.
As per a former head of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO):
"We make no attempt to evaluate the quality of the borrower, the ability to repay, the effectiveness of the loans...[so] the taxpayer ends up picking up the tab."
Is that fair to all the responsible students and families that pay for their education and repay their student loans?
This systems is so broken, and on top of it yet we want to forgive more student debt all together and teach our children to be deadbeats!
It seems like this education system can't teach anything of value except how to play an already broken system! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 22, 2020
There's Someone For Everyone
I'm sitting resting on Shabbat, minding my own business, and reading the Favorite Tales of Sholom Aleichem, but then my wife tells me a story circulating in the news that seemed like it could even be one better. At least my exaggerated version of it did as a tall tale in the making.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 20, 2020
Modeh Ani - Thank you G-d
Beautiful song after the prayer, Modeh Ani that Jews say every morning immediately when we wake up.
I give thanks to You, living and eternal King for you have restored my soul within me with mercy; Your faithfulness is great.
Thank you G-d for everything you do for us.
Your mercy endures forever!
As Sholom Aleichem say: we should not know the taste of hunger. ;-)
(Credit Video: Omer Adam עומר אדם)
November 19, 2020
Vaccine Fears
They tell me that the news is reporting 95% effectiveness and then they pull out their smartphone and show me a cartoon of someone taking the vaccine and their face is all deformed (I won't go into the details).
So I ask him:
Are you going to talk the vaccine?
He says:
"No!"
I ask:
Do you take the flu vaccine?
Again he says :
No, it's poison!
He thinks some more and says (jokingly, I believe):
And if some big burly guys try to hold me down and make me take it, I'll tell them I'm gonna go out and get a gun and come back tomorrow and shoot them.
Bottom line: there is some real fear and apprehension out there about these vaccines.
And surely, some people do have negative effects--whatever that percentage is.
Personally, I will take the vaccine. I would rather try and fail (hopefully not), than never try at all!
How long the vaccine is effective for--that's another matter all together. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 18, 2020
I'm Sure You Did
I am about to get into the swimming pool.
A water aerobics class is letting out and a bunch of older ladies are on the way out of the water.
One of them stops, give me a big smirk, and says:
"Don't worry we warmed it up for you!"
I thought for quick second, and said with a completely straight face:
"I'm sure you did!"
The joys of swimming life. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 17, 2020
Oh Baby It’s Cold Inside
November 16, 2020
Geometric Shapes Inspire
They're interesting in that they speak to a person, but it's left up to your imagination what they are actually saying.
Feels a little futuristic and from alien space.
Words may mean nothing, but shapes can be a universal language.
Go figure! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 15, 2020
Humming The Hatikvah
But as I walk in the water, feeling both the softness and purity of the beautiful water as well as the buoyancy and resistance of it, I think to myself that no Jews should not be familiar and know The Israel national anthem. After 2,000 painful years in exile culminating in the concentration camps like Theresienstadt and The Six Million murdered Jews, we all must know that now G-d has kept his promise to our forefathers and returned us to The Holy Land.
Assuredly, we are living in the time of miracles, the redemption, and soon to be the coming of the Mashiach. Now is the time not just to hum The Hatikvah, but to bring every Jew back, including me and my family. It’s almost time to go home, where we will sing and dance, with hearts brimming over with Joy, before our L-rd, and once again go to worship at our holy Temple in Jerusalem. May it be His will! Amen.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 13, 2020
Donut Art
November 11, 2020
Seeing It Through Glass
November 10, 2020
Can Anyone Say Election Fraud?
- Vote rigging.
- Dumping of valid ballots.
- Counting invalid late ballots.
- Changing the postmark of ballots.
- Preparing phony ballots.
- Accepting unsigned ballots.
- Voters who voted multiple times.
- "Software glitches" switching votes
If this isn't considered fraud, then why are we even bothering to hold an election in the first place?
And moreover, why do we pretend that we're a democracy? ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 8, 2020
From Creation to the End of Times
As Jews, we travel through history to our destiny along an arc of birth, growth, decline and the learning from our mistakes, to ultimately the fulfillment of our divine mission for world enlightenment. Jewish history can be broken down in a couple of amazing ways: first by every two millennium from creation forward, and second, starting with Abraham, in 400-500 year increments.
We have an incredible history that takes us along a clear trajectory from our founding of monotheism and special relationship with G-d as His "chosen" in the receiving the Torah and its transmission, to our many weaknesses and failures in going astray from our mission, and ultimately to our redemption and achievement of G-d's purpose for us in bringing his teachings and glory to all the world.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 7, 2020
Colorful Balloons
A lady with a baby and a bouquet of colorful balloons.
Really like how the colors of the balloons accent her shawl, scarf, and dress.
Even the dreary "olden days" are made more cheery with these colorful balloons.
I'll take a dozen of those today and every day for a good while to come! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 6, 2020
We Are The 99%!
The too often proverbial suckers under the heel of the power and money elite in society.
Fed phony and biased information to try and turn us against each other and manipulate us to believe and act in ways beneficial to those who want to retain, and endlessly grow, their wealth and status.
Like good soldiers, the underclasses are the pawns in the global games of Power Chess and Monopoly.
The 99% are completely expendable.
They are blind and will follow orders.
The 1% likes them dumb and works hard to try and keep them that way!
Anything, if the rich can get richer and the powerful can get more power.
The schnooks at the bottom looking up, with begging eyes, get the scraps thrown off the table and unto the floor where they fight for a morsel, while killing each other for it.
The elite use the media, Hollywood, polls, and radicalism, so that they can sit up high and mighty and watch the rest of us with a wide smirk of disdain on their fat, arrogant faces, as we drink it all in.
How long will the 99% be fooled and played?
Exploited and even thrown under the bus by the narcissist and greedy 1%.
Where is the democracy in that? ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 5, 2020
Truth or Lie?
Our pollsters know what they are talking about?
Our news media is honest and unbiased?
Our political system is rational, mainstream, and values integrity?
Our democracy is safe and not under serious threat from within?
Oh dear, Pinocchio has died of an overdose! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 4, 2020
If The Other Side Wins The Election
I think this is how a lot of people feel...
if the other side wins the election (look where he's picking from)!
A picture is worth a thousand words.
One thing we know for sure is that the polls and the "Fake News" media got it all wrong again! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 3, 2020
Who Will Be The Next Captain of America?
Who will be the next Captain of America?
Everyone is on the edge of their seats.
As one friend said:
Half the country will be elated and the other half miserable.
Maybe in the sense of how polarized we've become, it really is a no-win proposition.
Too bad we can't vote for the real Captain America? ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 2, 2020
Election + Covid = Alcohol
This old bottle of wine is looking mighty fine to me about now.
Sometimes, we all need something for the pain!
And this election and the plague has been nothing but painful.
The question is drink it now or hold it for tomorrow night. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
November 1, 2020
Tefillin: Our Wi-Fi To G-d
Tefillin are our antennas to Hashem!
And like an antenna, we are able to pray and have our signal amplified to G-d as well as be able to be imbued with G-d’s spirit and direction to us in life. With the Straps of the Tefillin as well as the boxes and knots, we spell out the letters of G-d’s name on our head and on our arm. Thus, we are not only wrapped in this “spiritual antenna,” but we literally wear G-d’s words on the parchment in the Tefillin boxes and with His holy name stamped on our centers of thought and feeling.
In short, Tefillin is opportunity for us to network over Wi-Fi with the Master of the Universe. It takes us out of the daily grind of looking at the world in selfish, shortsightedness of what’s in it for me today, and how can I get more gold and goodies than the next guy or girl. Inside all of us, we have a soul from G-d, and through our spiritual Wi-Fi connection, we can energize that part of ourselves with a good, strong signal straight to the Big Guy upstairs.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumethal)
October 29, 2020
Someone's Always Watching
Whether someone is peering at you from upstairs or around the corner.
Or there is a surveillance camera.
Or someone is recording you on their smartphone.
You are never really alone.
And even IF, and that's a big if, that no one person is watching.
Remember that G-d above still sees everything! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 28, 2020
Overwhelming Public Fatigue
October 27, 2020
Meat On A Spit
The fat drips and the meat is smoking and juicy hot.
Is it the animal in us or do we just know good food when we see it?
Schwarma or a BBQ, you can taste it!
And it hits the spot right on like nothing else can. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 26, 2020
Chucky Rules The Road
This was a scary mother of a truck.
It had Chucky perched spread-eagle over the front crash bumper.
Imagine looking in your rearview mirror and seeing this barreling down on you.
Chucky rules the road and he's coming for you.
It's too late to run and hide.
He's gonna get you!
Consider yourself dead meat and it's not even Friday the 13th. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 25, 2020
October 24, 2020
The Elections: Perfecting Our Imperfections
Clearly, from the President on down to each and every one of us, we can be certain that none of us is perfect. However, G-d put us here, precisely, to have the opportunity to repair our imperfections. In this earthly world, our soul is tested, and we thereby have the opportunity to come out stronger and better because of it. The challenges in this world provide the "purification by fire" that our souls need to elevate themselves from past mistakes or imperfections. In essence, G-d in his ultimate benevolence — of love, kindness, and giving — bestows on us, His children, the chance to learn and grow and to realize our potential!
In short, while our elections leave us a lot to be desired in terms of the candidates for the highest office of this great land, we can see from the presidential candidates on down to the citizens of this country and to those around the world that there is both shortcomings and the potential for becoming the people that G-d knows we can really be.
(Credit Graphic: Andy Blumenthal)
October 22, 2020
Swingers Swinging!
October 21, 2020
Watch Where You Stick Your Nose
October 20, 2020
Best Looking Bees
October 19, 2020
Magical Blue Pendant
October 18, 2020
Two Terms In Office
Limit Politicians to 2 Terms:
One in Office.
One in Prison.
Now this doesn't speak very well of our leadership.
What about the one's that have decades in office, and the time is used for their own selfish purposes and not for the people?
Where power and money is the purpose rather than advancing social well-being.
Where personal and party agendas are the playbill rather than doing what is right, plain and simple.
Where scoring points against your adversary or completely taking them down is the strategy rather than reaching out and working hand-in-hand to achieve our nation's greatness.
We have fallen a long way from what I would imagine the founding fathers had in mind for this great democracy.
Perhaps, the biggest problem is that we have stopped even trying. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 17, 2020
Don't Forget To Brush
October 16, 2020
Face It!
The brilliance of capturing the essence while leaving out the extraneous.
A person is clearly there even though it's just his face.
What is hidden is also revealed.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Yet, I don't miss him, because he's right there.
It looks like he's about to say something! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 15, 2020
Artsy Bike
Like a newspaper, it's black and white and "read" or actually rode all over.
How much time do you give a bike like this before it gets stolen on the streets downtown?
D.C. seems to be getting even worse than before, now with Coronavirus and the riots.
Doesn't feel safe, and it's in definite need of an urban makeover from all the horrible poverty and homelessness. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 14, 2020
Sweet Little Bunny
Surprised s/he let me get so close without hopping away.
The eyes seemed a little bugged out.
Nothing to be afraid of little bunny.
We're not on the survival TV show Alone, so no one here is going to eat you.
Run free and enjoy the garden little bunny.
Life is good for you. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 13, 2020
Born or Trained In Crazy
You don't have to be crazy to work here, we'll train you.
Some places they hire the crazies and other they train them to be crazy.
Perhaps, it's a bad culture or some bad applies, but either way they can turn good, caring employees into some more crazies to add to the office's bunch of bananas.
Fortunate is s/he who works in a normal, good workplace and can do "a decent day's work for a decent day's pay." ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 12, 2020
Sleep Number Got My Number
My good friend got one and recommended it!
Went to the store today and tried them out.
I was really amazed, especially since I have some significant back pain that I am dealing with.
I am hoping, G-d willing, for some pain relief and some extra Zzz sleep! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 11, 2020
Andy Blumenthal Does Some Hip Funk
He who makes peace in his high places
He shall make peace upon us
And upon all of Israel
And say Amen
Soundcloud song is recorded here.
https://soundcloud.com/dannielleblumenthal/osehshalom-remix-andy-blumenthal
Enjoy the vibes!
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 10, 2020
Forever Together: Peace and Security
For Israel, we’re turning the corner towards peace and how wonderful it is, yet even as we do, we must never relax on the safety and security of our people.
Yes, in earnest, we hope for peace, we crave it, and we even sacrifice (sometimes painfully) for it, but also we know that we must safeguard that peace and our lives though the best, most advanced and relentless security, in case that often illusive and miraculously achieved peace at any time fails or falters. Strength, along with undying faith in the Almighty, is the constant and enduring safeguard of the peace that we so yearn for with our every fiber. This is why peace and security must always go hand-in-hand together.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 9, 2020
@The Mariachi Brothers
Sunflowers For Shabbat Shalom
Perfect for enhancing the Shabbat and holidays!
The sunflowers provide warmth and happiness for the honor of these special and spiritual days!
May Hashem in His abundant mercy grant us a full healing and peace to welcome the Shabbat and to celebrate this weekend a joyous Shmini Atzeret and Simchat Torah.
Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 8, 2020
Abstract Golden Art
October 7, 2020
The Vise of Migraines
Yet it's, perhaps, not as bad as your typical horrible migraine.
Actually, the pressure of a vise-like feeling may actually provide some sort of sick relief.
Migraine headaches can be so incredibly debilitating.
This guy looks like he needs to close the lights and lay down before his head pops!
Consider taking some medication as per your doctor, ice packs also helpful, close your eyes, and say a prayer. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 6, 2020
Awesome Hot Air Balloons
Hot Air Balloons are so awesome!
Dreamy, drifting into the sky.
Flying away with a birds-eye view.
Looking near and far across the landscape.
To the sunrise and the sunset.
Calm, coasting, and carried by the wind.
Fire breathing into the balloon.
Up, up, and away.
My beautiful, my beautiful balloon! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 5, 2020
What Type of Sick Puppy
This was in a woman's clothing/fashion store in the local mall.
There is something really screwed up with people's thinking and our culture.
Even if this lady likes to pet the dog, this is horrible messaging!
We need a serious reset on how to treat women and show them proper respect! ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 3, 2020
The Power of Life and Death
It’s so important to develop mastery over the whole life sequence: think nice thoughts, speak kind words, do good deeds, and develop positive habits. This is one of the secrets to life itself.
Life is often in the hands of our tongue–one stupid word and it can mean your head, and one smart thing and it can be, with G-d’s help, your ride to the stars!
Indeed, controlling your words, like controlling your desires, temper, and so on is a constant challenge we all face throughout life. Yes, it’s easy to just let oneself go, but the consequences can be severe for shooting off your mouth, acting stupid, or getting angry. We can get better with patience, time, and practice. We can become better, stronger people. We can learn to guard not only our tongue, but our temperament and deeds, and live a better, and perhaps even a longer life for it. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Dossy Blumenthal)
October 2, 2020
Sukkot: A Time of Divine Protection
Sukkot is the Jewish Festival of Shelter and of Ingathering.
In these challenging times of coronavirus and before this eventful election, more than usual, we need G-d’s blessings to shelter and protect us, and to bless both the United States of America and the State of Israel that they should be safe for all of us and that the “ingathering” be not only of the harvest, but of all the exiles from the four corners of the earth to G-d’s Promised Land for the final redemption.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
October 1, 2020
Beautiful Japanese Pagoda
Beautiful integration of stone into natural surroundings.
Centered, self-reflection, mindfulness, enlightenment, peace.
You can see this at Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden in Delray Beach, Florida.
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
September 30, 2020
Presidential Debates Sink To New Low!
Last Night with "Sleepy Joe" hit rock bottom!
From BOTH candidates, the lack of coherent answers, coupled with constant interruptions, yelling, put downs, and name-calling was so completely discouraging and disgusting.
Came away feeling like we were at a Mixed Martial Arts tournament rather a Presidential Debate for the United States of America.
What has happened to our great nation?
We are becoming the laughing stock to the entire world.
If we can't conduct ourselves with dignity, courtesy, respect, and integrity towards each other, how can we lead this country, let alone the world?
May G-d help us to find our footing again, to unite around the noble principles and values of freedom, diversity, equality, democracy, capitalism, and human rights for which this country was founded, and change the awful political sinkhole of divisiveness, strife, and sheer indecency that we are caught in. ;-)
(Credit Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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