An artist himself who struggled to make a living, he actively discouraged me from going into art. He also provided art supplies and expected improvement. I eventually went into art anyway, and I think he was proud, but he was also right that it's a hard way to make a living.

He struggled with various health issues that were long-term consequences for his injuries during the war for the rest of his life. Eventually cancer got him but he was stubbornly independent right up to the end; he drove himself to the hospital the day he died (don't do this, for obvious reasons).

He had undiagnosed PTSD, and an extreme aversion to any kind of fireworks. He was a product of his time, with the inherent flaws that can result. He was not a good dad by most measures, but I believe he tried his best.

I managed to miss this one the first time around in Utata- so glad to catch it now! Sunday Salon was such a great series. So well done.

Now that's a juicy image.

I'm so sorry. It's so hard to lose them, and even harder when you have to make and carry out the decision, even though it's the best for them. Hugs offered.

Love your music and art, Leslie.

Ah so good. So true. Thanks.

Gah, this gave me shivers... It feels so appropriate for our times- standing in the dark, hoping for enough light to see, but the windows are so high up...

I admit it makes me think they will bring back the draft...

Let's hope it reinforces the idea for them of not following crazy orders, but falling back on defending the Constitution instead...

Glad you're back there. I admit I haven't been posting much anywhere myself, between the state of the country, and feeling like posting anything was just giving the platforms more stuff to scrape for AI. But I miss friends, seeing their new ideas, etc. I miss the old days of Utata, actually.

The expansions definitely add more challenge to the game- Riley loves the added complexity but I’d actually like to feel more like I know the base game better before making it all harder and crazier!

We learned a new to us board game- Spirit Island- which was a huge hit with Riley. He immediately ordered 3 expansion sets and we have been playing in various configurations since.