Here are five things that caught my attention!
My birthday: Yes, today is my birthday:) Holiday birthdays can be a drag and candidly I think it is irresponsible for people to have unprotected sex the last two weeks of March:) That being said, I am blessed this year to be surrounded by a loving and healthy family! All I ask for my birthday is a donation to my re-election campaign! We have a big fundraising reporting deadline at midnight tonight! Anything helps!
Year(s) in Review: As we turn the page on another challenging pandemic year, I want to reflect on the journey we’ve been on together and the progress that your support has made possible. I invite you to check out our Impact Report which lays out how we’ve made a difference in the lives of families in our community. There are graphics, videos, testimonials and a whole lot more! My team worked really hard pulling this all together–I think they did a great job. We have big plans for 2022, and we’ll be taking the next steps towards realizing a stronger, more resilient San Diego County, but I wanted to thank you for being on this journey with us and show you what a difference your support has made.
Goodbye 2021: I am so ready to put this past year behind us. Between rising inflation, labor shortages in key industries, variants, and ongoing threats to American democracy, I say good riddance! But as millions of families across the country get to spend their holidays with loved ones, after not being able to in 2020, it is worth giving thanks for some of the good things from the last year. Here’s a list of good things that happened in 2021 that actually are worth reflecting back on.
In Memoriam: Twelve years ago this week, my closest friend was killed in Afghanistan. We can (and should) debate the wisdom of the wars of the last two decades, but as a nation we can not lose sight of the nobility of sacrifice for each other. And we can never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Rest in Peace Jeremy.
Country Music: I listen to a lot of country music (with appropriate mix of the Biss, Guns & Roses, Pearl Jam and classic rock in the mix). It is part upbringing and part enjoying music that tells a story. The lyrics of county music are often mocked but do tend to track our broader societal feelings. This piece from Rolling Stone outlines how country music changed to respond to the 9/11 tragedy and how in many ways it is changing once again (hat tip: Tierra for sending me the article). It is an interesting take. A change I see in songs like Cody Jinks “Stuck in the Middle” and Tim McGraw’s “Undivided”. I don’t like getting political at church or in my music, but something meaningful with a positive message is always welcome!