GERRY, KENT AND THE DONKEYS

If you are watching the Rose Bowl Parade at about 11:30 A.M. Eastern time on the first of January, you should see the Plainfield, IN contribution to that spectacle.

Ralph and Gerry Dunkin have raised their miniature donkeys at their place in Northeast Plainfield for a number of years and have taken them to numerous parades. This is their first Rose Bowl appearance.

Our good friend, Kent McPhail, will ride with Gerry behind the donkeys. I suspect Kent’s wife, Donna, will be watching and I’m not sure what Ralph will be doing.

Kent is on our Town Board, is Executive Director of our Chamber of Commerce and he and Donna are active members of Plainfield Christian Church. We are fortunate to be associated with them.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
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COUNTING VOTES

As Linden remembers, the vote counting problems in Florida in 2000 occurred primarily in democrat areas. More recently, there were problems of the same general type in Indianapolis when the process was under democrat control. Now in the liberal oriented State of Minnesota, with democrats largely controlling the counting process, they are having unbelievable problems which are sure to, once again, result in “stolen election” charges.

Do you see a pattern here? Linden does. Is it that democrats are just incredibly unlucky when charged with the responsibility of accounting accurately for votes cast? Perhaps this is the case.

If these areas are truly interested in doing a good job of fulfilling their responsibilities, Linden has a suggestion: Solicit advice from the Hendricks County Indiana County Clerk and the Election Supervisor. It could mean the end of your problems – unless, of course, you wish to appear dishonest.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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2008 LINDENWOULD AWARDS

WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Emerging on the national scene in a blast of glory, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin dominated the news and areas of desirable conservative speech and action after being named to seek the office of Vice President. Continuing left wing oriented sniping at her nicely illustrates the fear this group has of her success.

MAN OF THE YEAR
He may have been involved in a lackluster campaign and his stance in regard to many conservative values may be suspect or even defy logic but, his naming of Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate earns John McCain much forgiveness and the award.

STRIVING FOR MEDIOCRITY AWARD
With daily reporting of job losses, business and personal failures and disasters and a worldwide depression rearing its ugly head, one must look for the cause and for those most responsible. This writer shares the opinion of those who believe the collapse of the American housing industry was the primary cause and that Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Barney Frank (D-MA) are deserving of primary blame for this matter. Those who voted for this duo in their most recent elections share the blame. Therefore, a total of 1,126,093 candidates and/or voters share this award.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Friday: Started work on roughing out the publishing empire taxes, received Julie’s Christmas card which had a great picture of Jade on it, finished reading one of the B. M. Bower books Julie got for me, and Paul Johnson brought me a gift he and Mary had selected.

Saturday: Was pretty much a replay of Friday activities.

Sunday: Church and Sunday school, watched a Colts game after reading the paper, talked on the phone, etc. Although I don’t remember exactly, I suppose I fixed delicious meals on all three days.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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LATE DECEMBER 2007

Linden presents a review of the year old subjects.

M. 12-17-07 GLOBAL COOLING
Car doors frozen shut; needy Congressional districts; Help Wanted.

T. 12-18-07 GUTLESS WONDERS
Congressional failure in regard to social security; Help Wanted.

W. 12-19-07 SMALL TALK
More Congressional failure; Time magazine’s “person of the year”; Linden’s Life; Help Wanted.

T. 12-20-07 THURSDAY 12-20
Linden’s Life.

F. 12-21-07 PLANNING 2008
A list of possibilities for the coming year.

M. 12-24-07 FANNY J. CROSBY
Notes about this great hymn writer.

T. 12-25-07 GIFTS
Enumerates some thankfulness reasons.

W. 12-26-07 THE ELECTION, WAR AND IMMIGRATION
Comments in these three areas.

T. 12-27-07 GLOBAL WARMING/COOLING
Hat tip to Katia.

F. 12-28-07 PRO FORMA SENATE
The 100 person bad joke.

M. 12-31-07 END OF 2007
Buy Me; Help Wanted; comparative lists.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Two problems: Wednesday, demonstrating my normal skill, while cleaning I managed to unplug a computer connection that took some time to see and, for some unknown reason, my telephone went nuts.
Julie, Jade, Kenneth and Pat (Kenneth’s mother visiting from England) joined Linden for Candlelight Communion at Church.
Afterward, we went to the Pier 14 building for our first Christmas related meeting: Icy water was puddle around the entry to my home and it didn’t seem that we should meet there. Gifts received by me were the usual great collection of snack type foodstuffs and 9 B. M. Bower books. I was more than a little pleased.
Thursday I went to the home of cousin Bill and his wife, Kathy, for lunch and watched some of the funny movie “A Christmas Story.” Their son, Brian, and his wife, Kristi, arrived shortly after I did. It was an enjoyable visit. Later, I talked to my Alison, Sheri and my son, Brian. In the evening, the Julie bunch came by my place (the icy water had receded) and we had another great visit. They return to Illinois tomorrow.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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LINDEN'S WISH FOR YOU

A MERRY CHRISTMAS

AND A HAPPIER NEW YEAR

GLOBAL COOLING THOUGHTS

This is not the first time Linden has posted on this subject. He remains convinced that the global warming believers have fallen prey to the propaganda of those who will reap financial rewards as a result of the hoax. We should not forget those in Congress and in the scientific community who will acquire power or notoriety as a result of their professed belief.

Just as Chris Dodd, Barney Frank, Maxine Waters and other “leaders” expressed faith in the workings of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, others (and perhaps these same ones) have made life much more difficult for auto manufacturers by their insane attention to reducing emissions. One has to wonder about the mental capacity of those who keep returning them to office.

One only needs to inspect the gradually declining temperatures worldwide, the record snowfalls and the hardships suffered by many to develop the belief that Al Gore and those who follow his “thinking” are not real deep thinkers.

On Tuesday, a huge water main break in Bethesda, MD was, at least partially, attributed to cold weather. The same for the extensive damage to Martin College in Indianapolis due to a water line break and, at Linden’s church in Plainfield, IN a frozen pipe caused less severe damage.

In regard to global warming: How long after proponents realize they are wrong will they be strong enough to admit it?
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Luckily, he accomplished his running around needs early enough in the day to allow him to stay inside when the freezing rain and ice storm hit the area. There were many reports of road closings and auto accidents. Let’s see, does this tie in with the posting subject?

The pies from Michigan sent by Sharon are now history:

www.zingermans.com

The Kringles from Wisconsin sent by Katia are being devoured:

www.ohdanishbakery.com

Life is GOOD!
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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CHRISTMAS WEEK - TUESDAY

This is the three hundredth LINDENWOULD posting!

It was only slightly above zero outside but it felt like global warming was a reality as I walked the roughly half block to pick up my morning paper. That is, of course, in comparison to yesterday when the wind carried the cold close to your bones.

Did some minor running around and then started trying to get the place straightened up to the point where Julie won’t say, “Dad, you need to get a housekeeper!”
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A DISCLAIMER:
I know that I said yesterday that I would not talk politics on Christmas week: It doesn’t count if I refer you to the Ann Coulter piece on Human Events entitled, “Conservative of the Year.” I enjoyed it.
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I hope you will be able to see this item Julie sent me:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_F2md4uGmMU

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This, that Bill sent, is different from the one above but well worth watching:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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MONDAY: CHRISTMAS WEEK

As a special tribute to this special week, Linden will attempt to write nothing of a critical political nature until next Monday.

Last Friday was pitch-in breakfast at our early morning Men’s Prayer Breakfast: I fixed pineapple-upside-down cake (a first ever effort) and it wasn’t too bad. To my knowledge not a single partaker has passed away. Yet.

I waited, to no avail, at home until late afternoon for the delivery of the books my printer said should arrive on Friday. Then, I checked the computerized delivery info and was told that they had been put on the front porch three hours earlier. I checked several porches and there were no boxes of books to be found. I notified the printer and later the delivery company called to say that I should know something within maybe eight days. Being already upset with myself for not getting the material to the printer sooner, I was not just real happy.

My state of mind did not improve when I discovered that I had failed to return the Pier 14 building key to its usual storage place.

Within the next three hours, I found the key and received a call from a man who lives one block away saying he had five boxes on his front porch with my name on them. I returned to happiness.

On Saturday, I attended a Men’s Breakfast at Kingsway church at 7:30 and at 10:00 was at the Avon Writers Group meeting. Since, due to my failure, I had failed to have the books produced in time for a signing event during the Christmas shopping season, I was pleased to have a few books purchased at each meeting.

In the afternoon, I finished clearing out a space to park my car in the barn on the property before the really cold weather arrives. Helped one of the Ministers move a decking from the Pier 14 building to the area in the church where contemporary services are held.

The mail brought two of those delicious coffee cakes from Katia in Wisconsin. Then, had a long telephone conversation with Norma Jordan. She and her husband, Mike, had driven me to Louisiana for Julie’s 2006 wedding. I was very weak at that time. Later, I received an update call from Joyce Brinkman – I had been wondering about her recent trip to The Library of Congress, where as the former Indiana Poet Laureate, she and others did a reading. It was a pretty good day.

Sunday brought cold weather: Just a little above zero all day. I walked to morning services, had a couple of cookies and coffee and returned home. Had an email from Katia saying that she had worked very hard the previous day clearing her long driveway of snow and it was snowing again with a wind chill of 20 to 40 below. Makes it seem warm here. I called Jim Register in Tennessee to sing “happy birthday” to him and then talked to Audrey for a bit. Audrey is Rubye’s sister. Rubye was a shining jewel in my life.

I walked back for evening services, the wind was even stronger and it was COLD! There was not a soul there so I walked back, stopping at the Pier 14 building to warm up a bit. I later found out that they had announced the cancellation in the third service: I attend first service. Oh well, I’m warm and happy now.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE POLL TWO

This is merely a continuation of a probably very worthwhile study which was started December 12, 2008. In the area of “hope” and “change”, Linden hopes it will cause you to think and perhaps change your mind.

Although it was not widely covered by the ever-vigilant MSM, a high percentage of thinking voters in our last Presidential election believed that Governor Sarah Palin possessed more executive experience than the other three candidates combined. Linden is part of the group that believes this to be true.

Just as it is reasonable to assume that a Governor acquires executive experience more rapidly that a community organizer, it may be assumed that a President acquires this experience more rapidly than a Governor.

If all of the above is true, then, at some point, President-to-be Obama will on some date possess as much executive experience as Governor Sarah Palin had on November 4, 2008. The object of this poll is to determine when this date may be.

Basic rules: You are encouraged to submit the date you believe this event will occur. The date you submit may be no earlier than January 20, 2009 and, as a Christmas gift to then President Obama, may be no later than December 31, 2009. Dates submitted which do not fall within these requirements will be adjusted. It is anticipated that there will be a weekly report and, since, depending on your view of Obama’s progress, your opinion may change, you are encouraged to submit a weekly entry. Respond to LWDcomment@aol.com

Perhaps because of the possibly negative attention brought to Obama as a result of the latest Chicago scandal, those polled now believe he will equal the amount of executive experience Governor Palin had on election day on November 6, 2009. This is a downgrade of 15 days in the week since the first poll was published.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Had the usual enjoyable Thursday breakfast meeting. Received a call from the printer: The new books are ready to be picked up: I decided that I did not want to drive to Richmond to get them so, for an extra charge, they will be delivered. Too late for Christmas sales. Drat! I fixed a different dish for dinner: It is doubtful that the recipe will be included in my forthcoming cooking instruction book. Made a pineapple upside down cake to take to Men’s Prayer Breakfast in the morning. Watched a football game.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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LATE NOVEMBER 2007

This is a snapshot of the blog subject matter in the first full month of operation. On the 15th, we touched upon the first part of the month.

11-16 GAS PUMP BLUES the price of gas and the congressional opposition to developing our resources.

11-19 SUNDAY Church service, other activities, and the Gene Dulin memorial service.

11-20 HOLIDAYS A rating and discussion of the various holidays.

11-21 THANKSGIVING Various thoughts regarding the holiday.

11-27 Lisa, Peter and Linden in the Maine recording studio.

11-28 THANKSGIVING REVISITED A Thanksgiving vacation recap and returning home to a cold house.

11-29 DEATH TYPES Child abuse deaths compared to loss of life in Iraq.

11-30 TEST 13 “yes” or “no” questions.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Went to the school for the “Study Buddy” session at 9:00 but, because of the weather, they were on a two hour delay. So, I went by the credit union to order a replacement credit card for the one I foolishly damaged yesterday, on to Chick-fil-A for biscuits and gravy, went by the post office and back to school for the session. Joe Taylor returned the last of the three chairs which had needed repair. Jack and Paul came by in the evening while their wives were at choir practice.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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FDR

President elect Barack Obama, in his youthful ignorance, probably induced by one or more college professors, has on more than one occasion spoken of changing the direction of our country the way FDR did. If so, we are doomed!

Linden well remembers, as an 8 year old, several aspects of the miserable year 1938. Let’s see, yes, that would have been the sixth year of Roosevelt’s presidency. Unemployment stood at 19% - about 3 times what it is currently and 5 points worse than it had been the preceding year.

Linden’s father worked not one day that year and our total family income was provided by the small amount earned by mother and two older sisters. It was 3 more long years before WW II saved us from the Roosevelt depression.

Please Mr. Obama, continue your education.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Joe Taylor returned the second repaired recliner and took the office chair to repair. Had a very nice lunch at Panera Bread with Jan and Peggy. Went to the grocery, post office and gas station. The gas cap cover was frozen and in attempting to free it with my credit card I cracked the card. Had a wonderful Christmas get-together dinner and white elephant gift exchange at the LaRoche’s. There were 11 of us present. Roads were really slick all evening.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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REALLY TACKY

If Linden were rich (and he is not) and if he had a son ready to start college (and he does not,) he would not willingly allow him to attend Yale.

Monday, as is his practice, Linden started his day by posting his blog and followed that by reading the morning paper and drinking coffee.

On the AOL “news” portion of the “welcome” screen was mention of Governor Sarah Palin being responsible for the “I can see Russia from my house” line. Reference to the same was made on page two of the morning paper.

Apparently this effort to downgrade the image of the Governor was the product of the editor of the Yale Book of Quotations. His name is unimportant here.

This is just another illustration of the effort by the left to detract from the luster of the Governor: They are failing in this effort and are looking foolish in the process.

Linden is not familiar with comedian Tina Fey, who uttered the line while impersonating the Governor, and he has not watched “Saturday Night Live” for years. He does occasionally read about those in various fields who are tremendously overrated.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Joe Taylor returned the recliner he had picked up to repair and took the other one with him, also for repair. While here, we discovered that we share the same birth date. Although it is very cold out (come on global warming) a trip to the store and post office was necessary and I did some work in the barn. Not enough to make room to park my car in there. Received a very nice gift from Sharon: Three little pies from Zingerman’s bakery in Ann Arbor,Michigan. Ate half of the Chocolate Chess pie for dinner. Good!
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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EARLY NOVEMBER 2007

Linden believes that it is good to review the past from time to time. In that vein, he will now present the subject matter from some of his early days as a blogger.

11-5: Linden will not accept Pulitzer or Nobel prizes.

11-6: Clueless Children (some rather old.)

11-7: Greg Ballard (R) upset winner in Indianapolis.

11-8: Linden’s Romantic Review.

11-9: Linden: Emerging Media Giant.

11-12: Veterans Day.

11-13: Linden’s Limited Ability.

11-14: A Worthy Model: Gene Dulin.

11-15: Linden’s Study Buddies & Government Waste.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Men’s Prayer Breakfast was the highlight of Friday. On Saturday, Joe Taylor came by to look at some chairs needing repair. Attended a great Christmas program at my church in the evening. Sunday was church and Sunday school, watched a football game and did some work around the place.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE POLL #1

Although it was not widely covered by the ever-vigilant MSM, a high percentage of thinking voters in our last Presidential election believed that Governor Sarah Palin possessed more executive experience than the other three candidates combined. Linden is part of the group that believes this to be true.

Just as it is reasonable to assume that a Governor acquires executive experience more rapidly that a community organizer, it may be assumed that a President acquires this experience more rapidly than a Governor.

If all of the above is true, then, at some point, President-to-be Obama will on some date possess as much executive experience as Governor Sarah Palin had on November 4, 2008. The object of this poll is to determine when this date may be.

Basic rules: You are encouraged to submit the date you believe this event will occur. The date you submit may be no earlier than January 20, 2009 and, as a Christmas gift to then President Obama, may be no later than December 31, 2009. Dates submitted which do not fall within these requirements will be adjusted. It is anticipated that there will be a weekly report and, since, depending on your view of Obama’s progress, your opinion may change, you are encouraged to submit a weekly entry. Respond to LWDcomment@aol.com

The result of the first small sample poll indicates that on October 22, 2009 then President Obama’s executive experience will equal that possessed by Governor Sarah Palin on November 4, 2008.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
It was painful to admit to my Thursday morning breakfast group that, due to my sloppy attention to detail, my next book, A SWIFT: NOT JONATHAN, will almost certainly not be received from the printer in time for a book signing event to be scheduled before Christmas. Perhaps I should become a community organizer or something less demanding than being a writer/publisher.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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THANK YOU GOD

Wednesday was a good day – the Study Buddy session went well, I, once again, did not overwork, dinner at church was very good and the program that followed was the high point of the day.

One of the first points made by the speaker was that few people remember what they did on September 10, 2001 but most have vivid memories of the following day.

When I returned home, I consulted my journal and found several items for September 10. Among them were: Doing some necessary work for an older sister who counted on me for support – she passed away less than a month later; I had a long talk with my younger sister – she passed away about five years later; and I had dinner and spent the evening with my beloved Lady Friend – she passed away about two years later. Good memories!

Our speaker was David Beamer, father of Todd Beamer – probably the best known of the heroes who caused United Airlines flight 93 to crash near Shanksville, Pennsylvania on September 11, 2001 after it had been commandeered by Islamic terrorists. Those heroes undoubtedly saved untold numbers of innocents from death that day.

David spoke of the faith of his family and that of Todd in particular and of how the saving grace of Jesus Christ, available to all, is necessary to have real faith in our own life after death.

Thank you God for many things but certainly for the large number of American heroes who have served you and our country.
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ANOTHER CHICAGO CROOK?

Linden is more than a little pleased that democrat Illinois Governor Blagojevich has been able, through his suspected criminal activity, to remove some of the attention from those elected to “serve” in Washington, D.C. Linden believes that some of this “serving” borders upon criminal activity itself.

It seems that Governor B., perhaps attempting to follow in the footsteps of his predecessors in that office and others of the Chicago crime family, attempted to trade his power to name the Obama Senatorial replacement position for filthy lucre.

There has been some mention of Blagojevich and Obama each having an association with the convict Tony Rezko and several other mutually disadvantageous associations. We are known by those with whom we associate!

As for Linden, he is just pleased to be diverted for a moment from thinking about our truly inept Congress.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Picked Don up to take to coffee – surprisingly, they were out! So, we went to Chick-fil-A for coffee with biscuits and gravy. Later, I met Laura for lunch at the Bob Evans in Avon. It was rainy and miserable outside the rest of the day so I mostly stayed in. Did a bit of paperwork and was on the phone quite a bit.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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LINDEN'S FAVORITE MINORITY GROUP

Actually, it is a minority group within a minority group: Black conservatives. Brave souls indeed.

When you consider that blacks at the presidential level almost never provide less than 85% and often as high as 95% of their votes to the democrat candidate, it is easy to understand the problems faced by our favored minority group.

There is more than one definition applied to being politically conservative: Linden’s partial definition includes traditional values, limited government, low taxes and strong national defense. Surely no thinking person would tie the democrat party to this list.

The lessening importance of Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and those of that ilk coupled with the increasing respect for those such as Ward Connerly, Star Parker, Jesse Lee Peterson, Thomas Sowell, Shelby Steele, Clarence Thomas, J. C. Watts and Walter Williams provides Linden with hope for the future.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Julie was in the area on business today and we had a long and enjoyable breakfast meeting. Far and away the high point of my day!
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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OCTOBER 2007 ARCHIVES

Sometimes it is good to look back: Linden started blogging in October of 2007. He still just knows barely enough to turn the computer on and would never have treated you to Linden-would had not Laura set it up for him. He though that the posting of 10-23 would show every time he posted something! Wrong!!!

So, thinking that all six postings listed for October would be contained within one posting, this is how the contents appeared:
10-23 Picture and belief statement
10-21 Ratings of Presidents whom Linden remembers, rating of possible Republican and democrat candidates
10-15 Questions and statements
10-10 Congressional recommendations
10-05 Linden’s books.

You may enjoy reviewing his thoughts.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
On Friday it was cold, Paul Gunning took me to Men’s Prayer Breakfast and, also, due to my complaining that I only knew how to fix instant oatmeal, Judy sent me some delicious soup.
Saturday brought an early meeting at Kingsway church, my windshield wiper had frozen to the windshield while I was there and part of the blade ripped off: I had the wipers replaced and also went by the credit union where I had a couple of really good cookies.
Sunday brought church, Sunday school, brunch with friends, paper reading, did two loads of wash, took a nap and went to evening services. After I got home I watched a movie, Julie called to say she would see me in the morning (yay!), and Joyce called to say she was leaving with the current poet laureate and two others to do a poetry reading at The Library of Congress.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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SAXBY AND SARAH

In his postings last week, Linden mentioned both Thanksgiving and being thankful. December 2 brought another day of thanksgiving due to the election of Senator Saxby Chambliss in Georgia.

His election lessens the chances of the democrats having a filibuster proof Senate and thereby increases the probability of the Republicans being able to block the worst of what is sure to be a flood of undesirable liberal legislation. The election in Minnesota remains important but is less so than before the Chambliss win.

The democrats poured money and personnel into the campaign against Chambliss, but is was to no avail. He had several Republican heavy hitters campaign on his behalf but the real game changer was Governor Sarah Palin. He was effusive in his praise of her and admiration of her abilities. John McCain has found us a rare jewel!
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
The door to Linden’s car was frozen shut (cursed global warming) as he attempted to drive to the regular Thursday breakfast meeting. Pouring water on it allowed the driver side door to be opened and, in reaching across to sit the teakettle on the passenger side floor, Linden spilled water in the driver’s side seat. Of course, he didn’t notice and sat in it as he drove off – had a freezing posterior for a while. Luckily, the rest of the day was uneventful.
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GIFT GIVING:
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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BITS AND PIECES

SURELY NOBODY CARES:
A computer pop-up ad asked, “Was Britney the hottest celebrity in 2008?”

SURELY NOBODY WATCHES:
For the first time ever and probably the last time as well, saw a bit of a computer video of “The View.” In it, one conservative woman was being mocked by four loud and rude liberal women. The audience seemed to approve but that may have been canned.

CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER:
Heard and read a little about this monument to expensive governmental inefficiency. Can we survive this?

GOD MAY OR MAY NOT FORGIVE:
Heard just a bit of a report regarding those within the upcoming Obama administration who are in favor of unrestricted abortion.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Did a little cleaning on Tuesday. Probably the high point of the day was forgetting how I had broken a very nice serving dish about three weeks ago and doing it again with a dish of food. Otherwise, uneventful.
Had a good Study Buddy session on Wednesday, continued a half-hearted approach to cleaning, had a very good dinner at church. It was followed by a great program featuring a DVD of Dr. Ravi Zacharias speaking.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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POOR MANAGEMENT

We all know that federal spending originates in The House of Representatives and we all should know that the record of that body is so poor that most of those “serving” have a performance record so shoddy that, based on their record, they would not be retained in any other business.

Most of the past 40 years “service” has resulted in deficit spending. The Republican Congress starting in 1994 had a positive effect for a few years and then the recession and Iraq war which greeted George Bush in his first days in office had a devastating effect. Don’t forget, Congress approved the Iraq war.

In late 2008, the national debt edged over 10 trillion dollars. That amount, except for those in Congress, is almost impossible to comprehend. And then, our leaders started talking about a 700 billion dollar bailout! This has now progressed to where the figure of something over 7 trillion dollars is being bandied about. These people appear to not have a clue!

The yearly interest on our national debt is now in the area of 650 billion dollars and, from the budget standpoint, is exceeded only by Health and Human Services and The Department of Defense.

This sad story brings me to the contents of a forwarded email received today. It seems that the husband of Nancy Pelosi is very, very rich. He apparently has a very large stake in Star-Kist Tuna; Nancy managed to get American Samoa exempted from the 2007 minimum wage increase: Star-Kist is the major employer there. More recently, she added a 33 million dollar earmark for economic development in American Samoa to a “bailout” bill. Is this the same Nancy Pelosi who used to speak about the corruption of others?
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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CATCHING UP

Linden will briefly address four items today: The first two he has intended to address again for some time and the last two he just noted on Monday.

Nothing could further prove the need for a closed Republican presidential primary than the recent McCain campaign. He was not the first choice of Republicans but, by allowing non-Republicans to vote as Republicans, the GOP was saddled with him. This is not at all meant to be disrespectful of him as a person; it is just the plain political truth. The RNC needs to move toward closed primaries.

As Linden understands the matter, the time is fast approaching when Obama must provide, as our constitution requires, a birth record which will prove he is eligible to be our President. I hope he can and will – to do otherwise is disgraceful. If he cannot, I hope he will be barred from the office.

On Hot Air, Linden watched a great endorsement of Senator Saxby Chambliss by Sarah Palin. She is the most impressive person on the political stage.

On the radio Linden heard that George Stephanopoulos had credited Obama with the recent stock market improvement. The Dow closed down 680 on Monday. What now, George?
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Jack and Helen Burlison invited me and 17 members of their Sunday school class to attend a dinner at Chick-fil-A: Owners Chris and Julie Spires were the perfect hosts and the food was great! I often have biscuits and gravy for breakfast there but this was my first time to be there in the evening. I had a chicken sandwich with cheese, bacon, lettuce and tomato and some of the best French fries I’ve ever eaten. Happy am I.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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THE K-A ADMIRER SOCIETY

In Linden’s posting of November 25 he alluded to a less than first class educational experience. Perhaps that is why he so admires those who are able to cast spells with the written word. Today, rather than providing something that is less worthwhile, he chooses to direct you to writings that are well worth reading.

http://www.kyleanneshiver.com/2008/11/29/my-take-on-four-christmases-the-movie/

You may wish to read this before attending the movie. Also, you should click on “I knew it was bad. But this bad?” which appears at the bottom of this article. It takes you to a spoof of the “thoughts” of some Obama supporters.

http://pajamasmedia.com/blog/gravest-threat-to-obamaland-disillusionment/#comment-161750

In the body of this writing, click on “traceable” for a good posting regarding our financial problem.
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LINDEN'S LIFE:
Both Friday and Sunday I got together with Lisa, Rubye’s daughter who lives in Maine. She was here for a wedding. We had plenty of opportunity to visit and had some pretty tasty food while we were at it. The rest of the weekend was quiet although I did attend church on Sunday morning. This is not to imply that church was noisy.
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GIFT GIVING?
Any of Linden’s six books or his first CD could be what you are looking for: They are inexpensive and not everybody has one.

The CD “Songs A Poor Old Police Department Retiree Might Write While Waiting For His Meager Pension Check” features Linden’s original compositions. The book subject matter ranges from political through poetry, baseball, prayer, cryptograms and Linden’s pilgrimage in Spain at age 75.

Plainfield area sales at Secondhand Stories in the strip mall at Raceway & Rockville roads. Online, go to addresses below and inquire on “Linden Swift”.

http://stores.ebay.com/secondhand-stories
www.alibris.com/bookstore/secondha

DONATIONS to support postings, are appreciated but not necessary, may be made to Linden Swift, Box 203, Plainfield, IN 46168

COMMENTS: Only those sent to LWDcomment@aol.com are received.
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