Silver — yes, she did reek of whisky and whiskey and belligerence often travel hand-in-hand. And I thought that’s what the rep meant to say, too, but when I jokingly corrected her she didn’t get it. Just kept repeating, “Hawaii isn’t in the U.S.”

Oh, and I bet that cell phone rep meant to say continental US and just forgot the continental part. At least I hope so!

This question depends on whether you are talking to customer service or not.

And should that read, “knowledge of US History” or just “knowledge” in general?

And technically, Joan is not my next-door neighbor anymore. She moved about a mile away. If I’d truly wanted to i could have quit taking her shopping then. As a rule I don’t mind taking her, I do it for God anyway. My first two years here i did not have a car, and when I could finally afford one I thanked God, and promised myself I would use it to help others (within reason) who didn’t have cars. A little old lady walking to the store every week in Vegas’ extreme weather conditions seemed like a “within reason” place to help.

Hawaii didn’t secede from the Union. Knowledge of basic U.S. history might have.

Perhaps you could do your shopping on the way home from work some night. One or two weeks might be enough to remind her that you are doing her a favor. This may be the brat in me talking, but acts of charity and kindness aren’t necessary for those who mistake them for obligation.

Lori — I figure that’s what’s effecting her mood. As to wit: my sister, Caryl, once commented that she wished she had half my wit. I earnestly assured her that she indeed did. Somehow, that didn’t cheer her.

This made me laugh almost as much as your comment on my last blog did.

Morgan — did you just imply I was one of the dumbest parts of society? Or that my readers are, if they’re hearing it here last ….. And aren’t you one of my readers?

Dr. John — she knows I am leaving. Every week she asks me if I’ve broken up with my “internet fella” yet. She also knows the reason I won’t be taking her shopping next weekend is because my “internet fella” will be in town. She often challenges my tongue to be silent. Her actions remind me that discipleship isn’t mean to be easy or pleasant. I figure she’ll appreciate me more after I’ve gone.

Mike — I am reasonably certain that mowing her down with a cart will only increase her whining. Besides, no offense, but I’ve learned through reading your blog that any suggestion from you is really best not followed to it’s natural conclusion unless one enjoys natural disasters.