calvinhobbes
March 1, 2015 In "Because I Said So" By Richard J. Alley

Look at the bright side of impromptu winter holidays

We’re in the midst of the long run-on sentence of winter, punctuated only by a staggering MLGW bill, a stomach bug and the occasional icy holiday.

But spring break is a matter of weeks away. Say it with me: Spring break is only weeks away.

There is nothing better than Memphis in springtime, is there? The dogwoods bloom, the birds chirp, and the azaleas blossom. Then, of course, comes the pollen. The green stuff fills the air, covers our cars and invades our noses, bringing watery eyes and itchy throats.READ MORE

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January 4, 2015 In "Because I Said So" By Richard J. Alley

Technology can bring families closer

cell phone

“hi daddy how r u?”

I sat down to write this column yet have been constantly interrupted by the phone pinging away next to me. It’s a text from my daughter. Followed by another, and then another. She’s not away at college or across town. She isn’t grocery shopping or dining out with friends. She’s in the next room. I can practically hear her thumbs on the keypad from here.READ MORE

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December 21, 2014 In "Because I Said So" By Richard J. Alley

Slow down, look around, and experience holidays like a child again

elf

The Ghost of Christmas Past recently visited upon me memories from the 1970s. There was a G.I. Joe action figure that stood a foot high and an Evel Knievel motorcycle that sped across the hardwood floors of our Midtown home. There was the “A Charlie Brown Christmas” special that aired one night and one night only. If you missed it, too bad: It would be another 365 days until you had another chance.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. What I’m wondering is whether the holidays of my youth were a simpler time.READ MORE

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