Greetings From Flyover Country

Most are well aware of the term. However, lest I be punished for my assumption, let me make sure you all have the proper and accurate definition of this characterization.

The term “flyover country” is a colloquial expression used by coastal residents to describe the vast, predominantly rural and agricultural regions of the United States situated between the East and West Coasts. This dismissive nickname stems from the perception of these middle states as unremarkable landscapes that are merely traversed during air travel between major metropolitan areas on the coasts. Residents of coastal cities often view these central states as less culturally significant or economically vibrant, reducing the diverse and complex communities of the American heartland to a mere geographical transit zone. The phrase reveals underlying regional stereotypes and socioeconomic divisions within the United States, highlighting the cultural and economic disparities between urban coastal centers and the more rural, agricultural interior regions of the country.

The summation of course is that unless people live on the coasts, we are hicks and count for little or nothing.

I find it more than interesting that these coastline dwellers will and are going through serious adjustments in attitudes. If trends continue, those lands on the coasts will only be known as the national shipping & receiving country.

Where Are You?

Ever since I bought my iPhone, I have been finding little things here and there where I am pleasantly surprised. Last night, I had just taken the phone off the charger and set it aside to do something else.

I frantically patted my pockets, searching for the missing item. Moments ago, it had been right here, and now it had vanished. Despite my thorough investigation, the object remained elusive, slipping through my increasingly anxious search like a phantom.

A glimmer of possibility flickered in my mind, a fragile thread of hope I barely dared to grasp. I raised my voice, “Seri, where are you?” The silence hung suspended for a heartbeat before I heard the familiar voice crisp and clear: “I’m right over here.”

As I turned towards the source of the sound, a wave of astonishment washed over me. The illuminated screen cast a soft glow, clearly revealing the location. While the added lighting was a thoughtful feature, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of frustration. The object was in easy reach and was clearly visible.

As I retrieved my phone, a flood of memories washed over me, reminding me of the countless frustrating moments spent hunting for my previous device, desperately calling it in hopes of a faint ring. This time, however, the recovery felt different—a welcome relief rather than a stressful ordeal. Given my notorious forgetfulness and penchant for misplacing items, this newfound tracking feature promises to be an invaluable ally in my daily life.

The Unknown Statistics

Recent demographic shifts have highlighted potential political consequences for states with long-standing Democratic leadership. California and New York have experienced population declines significant enough to result in reduced congressional representation. The current population trends suggest these states may potentially lose additional House seats in future congressional reapportionment, reflecting broader migration patterns and potential dissatisfaction with existing state governance strategies. These changes could have substantial implications for national political representation and electoral dynamics in upcoming election cycles.

On the other hand, have you seen what is happening in Florida, Texas & Tennessee? That’s right. They are the states with magnets, drawing the people from blue cities and states by the thousands, maybe millions.

Despite the growing allure of emerging trends, no comprehensive research has explored the underlying barriers preventing individuals from embracing change. Numerous potential migrants remain stationary due to complex economic constraints, social obligations, or logistical challenges. Factors such as immovable real estate, career dependencies, familial ties, and binding legal agreements create invisible anchors that restrict personal mobility and lifestyle transformations.

Would a Democrat risk commissioning a poll that might expose an uncomfortable political reality? Even a confidential survey could have catastrophic consequences if its findings leaked. In truth, the underlying sentiment seems so apparent that empirical validation appears superfluous. Why quantify what is already widely understood?

Shrinking, Literally

Recent data suggests Shelby County is experiencing a more rapid population decline compared to any other county in the United States, according to a recent report.

DeSoto County stands as Mississippi’s most rapidly expanding county, according to recent demographic trends.

Please take note, DeSoto is strongly Republican, and Shelby County is strongly Democratic. With the two counties right next to each other, do you suppose that one thing might be related to the other?

Maybe Shelby County should start voting Republican. Maybe DeSoto County should take note and vote even more Republican.

Moreover, perhaps all voters should take note. While Democrats might outvote the Republicans at the polls, Republicans seem to be outvoting Democrats with their feet.

It is a fact that, wherever possible, people seek to live where taxes and government oversight are least.

What Makes me Laugh?

Unexpected bursts of laughter punctuate my days, catching me off guard with their spontaneous delight. Initially reluctant to explore this writing prompt, I soon realized that these unscripted moments of joy are the most precious—emerging suddenly, transforming ordinary instances into memorable snapshots of pure, unadulterated happiness.

However, these are usually also the ones I can’t think of at the moment. It is good that God has given us humor to allow us to cope. One day near the end of Marine boot camp, I started laughing. The guy next to me cautioned me that I would suffer if I were caught, and he was right. However, I replied, “I have to laugh. If I don’t, I’ll cry.”

I guess God gave us both laughing and crying as coping mechanisms. For the time being, though, I’ll forego my comments on crying as the prompt was for laughing. Besides, we Marines never, never cry.

Children bring us laughter, right? And at the most unexpected times. I can remember the first time my 1-year-old son tasted a lemon; then fussed when we took it from him. Of course we immediately gave it back and he ate it. Never figured on that one.

Pets are divine comedians, sent to brighten our lives with unbridled joy. My loyal canine companion found pure bliss in pursuing oversized rubber spheres, a mere $2.99 investment that yielded endless entertainment. Despite his valiant efforts to conquer the unwieldy orb, his teeth never quite found purchase. Inevitably, after an exhausting pursuit, he would manage to pop the ball, while we dissolved into fits of uncontrollable laughter. Those three dollars were a masterful purchase, transforming an ordinary afternoon into a memory of pure, unadulterated happiness.

Cats possess an enchanting fascination with strings, their playful nature coming alive as they track the elusive movement. Watching their determination intensify when the string disappears beneath furniture is a delightful spectacle of feline curiosity. Their love for boxes transcends size – from sprawling cardboard containers to tiny packages – each becomes an irresistible playground. Even when logic suggests a box is too small, cats will ingeniously contort themselves to fit, defying physical constraints with remarkable flexibility. Perhaps most amusing is their laser pointer pursuit, where they leap and bound with wild abandon, scaling walls in an epic chase against an unattainable light, embodying pure, unbridled joy.

Yet, as I reflect on those moments, memories dance across my mind, bringing forth a warm, nostalgic smile.

The act of writing brought unexpected joy, punctuating my reflective moments with subtle grins. Each carefully crafted word seemed to unlock memories and emotions, transforming my initial hesitation into a meaningful exploration of thought and experience. thus, I can say, even the prompt brought a smile, if not an outburst of laughter.

Mount Vernon, a Beautiful Place.

On a memorable visit to Mount Vernon, I explored George Washington’s historic estate, marveling at the stately mansion and its expansive, meticulously maintained grounds. The architectural grandeur and pastoral beauty of the first President’s home offered a profound glimpse into early American history and Washington’s personal legacy.

As I stepped through the back door, the breathtaking landscape unfolded before me, instantly revealing why this location was chosen. The vista was so magnificent that no language could adequately capture its raw, stunning beauty.

Before me was the slope that went down to the river. As I slowly turned my head, I was in awe. Perhaps it’s a little out of line to say this, but I sure wish I could have laid claim to it first, even without the house. I would be quite happy living in a tent there. Well, it would need to be a good tent.

This captivating experience is a must-see, offering a unique and memorable visual journey that will leave a lasting impression. If you can, please take the opportunity to immerse yourself in this extraordinary spectacle, as the moments of wonder are truly priceless. You will want to take some pictures, but don’t expect to capture the beauty.

Conceivably an Unintended Benefit for Virginia

The recent government downsizing could trigger a significant exodus, with displaced workers potentially relocating by renting U-Hauls and leaving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area in search of new opportunities.

Many departing employees may not have been deeply committed conservatives, potentially shifting the political landscape in a more Republican-leaning direction.

Washington, D.C. appears to be a challenging political landscape, resistant to significant electoral shifts. Even substantial financial incentives like a generous salary increase or an extended holiday schedule might not be sufficient to sway the district’s deeply entrenched political preferences.

My Best Guess

The veteran Senate Majority leader seems increasingly likely to step down, potentially through resignation or forced departure. His once-formidable political influence appears to be rapidly diminishing, with a constant stream of unfavorable media coverage chipping away at his reputation and standing.

Then, we all know what will happen; there will be division and power struggles. Much of it will be carefully hidden from the public eye but, be sure we will catch glimpses from time to time of the figurative left jab or the little right upper cut. Then, at some point, that right cross will put down the last bit of competition will fall away. The winner will emerge, possibly with visible wounds. He might use some of that figurative makeup in an attempt to cover the worst of it.

Power dynamics will unfold like a high-stakes competition, reminiscent of musical chairs but with far more serious consequences. Each potential leadership role becomes a battleground where rivals vie for strategic positioning and influence.

In the realm of political ambition, some view power as the ultimate currency, where defeat is an unacceptable outcome and power becomes the sole measure of success.

Electric Cars Have Batteries

I know. It’s supposed to be obvious, but it isn’t. The first time I looked under the hood of my car, there it was, just a little above the big electric motor.

I turned to the salesman and asked, “What is that doing here?”

All right, I admit I am being fastidious and not very well. Even so, there are likely a few besides me who were unaware that electric cars must still have 12-volt batteries besides the big ones that power the electric motor.

It all made since to me that the little battery is to power lights, radio, certain controls and other accessories.

However, I still don’t know if they have alternators.