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No Concept of Time

A few weeks ago, the freezer in our kitchen stopped working. Costco-size packets of chicken breasts and ground turkey were defrosting. My favorite Trader Joe’s frozen meals turned to mush, and the carton of Moose Tracks frozen yogurt melted.

This was not the best start to my week. The repairman told us the cause was likely a faulty compressor. He recommended adding Freon to see if it solved the issue, but he also suggested we check the warranty first.

“When did you buy this refrigerator?” he asked.

“Three or four years ago when we redid the kitchen,” I replied quickly, not factoring in the pre/post COVID-era formula.

Turns out, it was seven years ago. 2018 was seven years ago!

How did that happen? Where did the time go?  I’m beginning to consider other milestones in my life and how long ago they took place.

For instance, my husband and I are celebrating 28 years of marriage this September. I still remember that wonderful day as if it were yesterday. My junior bridesmaid is married. Today is her birthday. The flower girl is currently pursuing an acting career in California, and the ring bearer now works for the federal government. 🤯

My daughter graduated from college two years ago (five years after the kitchen was remodeled). My son is in his third year at Drexel University. And nine years ago this month, we rescued our fur baby, Chloe.

Side note: I remembered all of the above without checking my Facebook Memories. By the way, this is an excellent tool for seeing how much time has passed me by. I look at it for the photos. I don’t pay much attention to the years.

I don’t want to think about these things too hard. It’s why I never do the math to answer the question, “How old will I be when…” It’s too depressing.

I have great sense of timing when it comes to arriving promptly (even early) for appointments. My calendar is up to date, and I check it regularly. But I must be using a different part of my brain for these tasks.

Because, I could swear we had that kitchen redone three years ago. 😉

XO,
Elisa

Book Review: Original Sin

Front cover of the book "Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, It's Cover Up and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again"I remember exactly where I was when President Biden announced he would not run for re-election. Ironically, I was about an hour north of the White House, celebrating my sister’s 50th birthday.

We were speechless but far from surprised. We had so many questions. What took him so long to make this decision? Why hadn’t he done it sooner? Like right after that disastrous debate. How nice it would have been to have the opportunity for a presidential primary and select a candidate with enough time to share their vision for our country’s future.

Alas, that did not happen, and we are where we are politically today for reasons that are only coming to light months later.

Regardless, “Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again” is a comprehensive retelling of the decisions made to conceal the truth from the American public. Some of the book’s biggest bombshells included a behind-the-scenes look into his declining health, his refusal to listen to party leadership and inability recognize longtime friends and supporters (like George Clooney), and the inner workings of the White House staff who tried to present and maintain a “nothing to see here” facade.

The cover photo says it all. President Biden and his inner circle closed their eyes to the polls. They covered their ears about health concerns, and prioritized pride over the potential (and very real) damage to the Democratic party and the country if he campaigned and lost.

Nearly everyone who spoke to the authors did so anonymously, fearing retaliation. This general theme has carried over to the current administration, where everyone appears to be afraid to talk freely.

I also feel a great deal of empathy for Biden, a political legend who did so much good during his tenure, dealt with personal tragedies, and yet couldn’t overcome his own stubbornness to pass the torch to the next generation. A decision that will likely be his legacy.

I’ve heard numerous reasons why people didn’t want to read this book. Many are angry with the authors, particularly Jake Tapper, who previously defended President Biden and has been accused of profiting from a story he may have downplayed in his reporting.

(Full disclosure: I believe Jake Tapper to be a responsible and ethical journalist. His coverage during the presidential campaign was a result of what the administration fed him and the rest of the media, which turned out to be lies.)

This book is also a challenging read for anyone who loves someone who can’t comprehend or face their limitations as they age. It’s also difficult for those of us who want to put party leaders on a pedestal and then realize they are only human and have made a lot of mistakes.

But it is an important read.

I gave this book a 5-star review because it was exceptionally well-written and thoroughly investigated. I trust the authors and their reporting of this period in our living history. I highly recommend books and articles that reveal the uncomfortable truths about both sides of the aisle.

Did anyone else read this book? What did you think? Thoughtful comments are welcome.

Elisa

July 2025 Ultimate Blog Challenge #1

Who am I?

I am a blogger who hasn’t written consistently on this blog for quite some time. I think my last post was back in January.

I am a writer who writes every day for work and in a weekly writing community.

I am a returning UBC-er (Ultimate Blog Challenger)coming back after a brief hiatus, because, as my blog title suggests, we are living in times without a manual. Some people have thrown the manual out the window. Others never bothered to look at it in the first place. And yes, I am speaking politically. But I promise that not every post will be of a political nature. I don’t have that kind of energy. 😅

On the days that I feel so moved to speak out, you are welcome to skip those posts. I understand if my views aren’t your cup of tea. And if you would like to comment, please be respectful.

I am a proud Jewish-American who puts my Star of David necklace away in mixed company or if I’m going somewhere unfamiliar. I’ve never had to do that before, and I am jealous of those who don’t have to worry about wearing their faith in public. I have a lot to say about what it’s like being Jewish in 2025.

I am a Gen-Xer firmly planted in the “sandwich” generation. I love to see the humor and irony in this stage of life. There is plenty of both. I’ll share those stories with you as well.

I am a small business owner, a storyteller, an avid reader who loves to write book recommendations, a wife, a mom of two fabulous children, and a dog mom. You will see it all in my writing.

I am happy to be here and look forward to all of your posts.

XO,

Elisa

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