Another year has passed us by. As I’ve gotten older, I try to take a few minutes out of my busy schedule and seriously ponder what happened during the last 365 days. This reminiscing must be done away from any television, radio, phones, computers, and other interference. The garage works best for me.
On my wife’s side of the family, she lost five members in 2025. That’s the most we can ever remember. Several friends are no longer with us, with perhaps a few who are now unable to communicate. Sometimes, we just don’t know the circumstances of not hearing from people.
On Facebook, a friend wrote that they were going to start omitting the names of those who were no longer active. I had to grimace, because oftentimes folks pass away with nary a whisper. I seriously doubt they’d care if Wanda cuts them loose.
Our country has a new president, and I’m thankful for that. Some folks aren’t, but knock on wood, the sky hasn’t fallen yet. I’ll be the first to let you know if I spot any pieces coming down. I complained a lot when Joe Biden was in charge, so it’s only fair…
I was able to see my sixth book published. The price for books is skyrocketing, so my sales are more of the Kindle online version than anything. In 100 years, “Alaska Kemosabe” will be a rare bird, much like “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (First Edition)” of which only 22 copies survive.
The city was blessed with new lane dividers. Thanks to them, once again, automobile curb feelers are undoubtedly a big seller in local automotive parts stores, along with tires. I’ve yet to hit one, but judging by all of the black marks, many people have.
Speaking of Highway 95, nothing says “Welcome to Havasu” any better than miscellaneous debris for visitors to see. Landscaper and construction trailers seem to be the biggest culprits, but golly gee, there are service club members in town that’ll pick it up for free.
Several new restaurants opened this past year, which is good. A few also closed. Saddest of all was Scotty’s Broasted Chicken. That’s one eatery that can never be replaced. Joleen and I ate there on many occasions with friends. The time I remember most was with a builder who was going over construction costs with us.
New to Havasu at that time, I noticed the coolest guys in town wore neon colored sunglass straps around their necks. When they weren’t wearing their sunglasses, they let them dangle on their chest, always in reach. I did the same in Scotty’s, and when we went to leave, the cashier pointed to my glasses before saying,
“I’m going to have to charge you extra for takeout!” Chicken crust, coleslaw, and bread crumbs sat proudly on both lenses. She said it happens all the time. Her suggestion was that I flip my sunglasses to the backside while eating, or totally remove them. I’ve never forgotten that free advice.
I’m not sure what the road holds for 2026. Hopefully, it’s all good. Something tells me nothing will be done about those ugly curbs, but I can live with that. It gives residents and snowbirds something to complain about, other than dogs doing their business in the Rotary Park ball fields. Hey, don’t blame the dogs, they can’t read the signs.
My New Year’s wish for everyone is to be happy and healthy. Anything else is simply icing on the cake!
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