Today is your day Boomer! You read biographies because you want to dig deeper into the lives of people you find interesting. And so I did over the holidays by reading this new 2023 biography of Beatle George Harrison. Author/researcher Philip Norman calls George the "reluctant Beatle" in contrast to band-creator John, pushy Paul, and under-appreciated Ringo. But when you read accounts, be ready for the good and the bad: GOOD: George's parents had the same first names as mine; in their early days, the band would earn 3-4 pounds for a five-hour performance;the boys, still in their teens, acted like typical teenagers....stealing drinks and gawking at girls; George loved the small, simple ukelele more than his prized guitar; they all hated strict schools, George's father punched out the teacher when he strapped young George; and most of their songs were based on life experiences like love, loss, and fame. BAD: The Fab Four all fooled around on their wives leading to multiple divorces; the boys all did heavy drugs throughout their 20's; all four could not manage their money properly and ended up in multiple lawsuits; John was murdered, of course, but George almost died four times shortly after being stabbed 40 times by a demented Beatles' fan; they all smoked all day, every day; George died young of lung and throat cancer. Boomers, you learn things that maybe you didn't want to know! But I recommend the book...too much detail at times, but a very insightful look into George's life and his daily connections to the band. Cheers.
Today is your day Boomer! Relaxing in my hot tub this morning, I had reflections of the 1970 CCR song "Lookin' out my Back Door". Yes, that kind of druggy, but catchy song, about the view of your backyard. Mine is spectacular: colourful sunrises, big ponderosa pines, cheer, apple, fir, and weeping willow trees, two mountains, sheep and chickens next door, two frolicking golden retrievers, beautiful green grass and what seems like a thousand birds...including quail, pheasant, chickadees, woodpeckers, and blue jays. And what else? Well....the quiet, the solitude, and the chance for reflection with no sirens, car noise, yelling people, or neighbours invading your privacy. It was...is...just beautiful, and I am so blessed to live in a rural area in BC's Okanagan Valley. Boomers, what's out your back door? John Fogerty's "tangerines and elephants" or something like my cheeries and coyotes? Check it out and appreciate the little things in life. Cheers...

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