The No Kings March in Boulder

 Dear Joanie, Rafe, and Luca,

    On Saturday, March 28, here in Boulder and around the country, and, actually, around the world, thousands upon thousands of people(and some dogs) took part in the No Kings March organized to protest the actions of the current president, who has far overstepped his authority. 

    Here are a couple of pictures from the march, which took over two hours:

A Choir Leads Protest Songs

  

So Many Clever Signs 

  

      What will be the outcome of these protest? That remains to be seen. Right now:

        --The war in Iraq continues;

        --Gasoline prices are high because of that war;

        --Trump continues to try to destroy those institutions and ideals on which this country was founded.

        --The drought in the West and particularly in Colorado is serious.

    As spring approaches, we do not give up hope, and neither do Shelby Poodle and the cherry tree!

 

2026: An Incredible, Terrible, Horrible, and (I Hope) Wonderful Year

 Dear  Joanie, Rafe, and Luca,

    Today, as I begin once more the letters to you, my grand- and great-grandchildren, we are three months into 2026. We are facing two of the most threatening events of our lives: the collapse of our environment and the collapse of democracy under our president Trump. While I am determined to be completely forthcoming about these threats as the year continues, I am offering to you windows of hope as well.  

    Here are the headlines today (I use the New York Times  for  reference)

1.  The U.S. is at war with Iran, started by our president, without authorization and with cloudy purpose. Oil prices are surging.
2. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) has hired thugs, who have far overstepped what broad authority they had. You will have to do research on ICE and the detention centers holding so-called illegal immigrants. You will be horrified.
3. The government is partially shut down, Democrats want to harness ICE actions; Republicans refuse. 
4. The Epstein Files. I can't even begin. Do your research.
5. Fraud and corruption at every level of the executive branch

    As for the environment: In Colorado, we have had no winter. Our water supply depends on our snow pack, and our reservoirs right now are at 25% to 52% capacity. 

    NONETHELESS:

    --It is a beautiful day in the Colorado mountains. My rose bush, apple tree, and lilacs have leafed out.

    --My small life among the backdrop of these world shattering events  consists of keeping up with the news, calling my representatives, walking Shelby Poodle, dancing, writing, hiking. In my 86th year I am, right now, healthy and active. 

    --It is always possible to find kindness and generosity everywhere, and I intend to document that for you.

    Stay with me here, as we see what the year brings.

        Your grandmother and great grandmother,

            Katie