Autumn Colors; Biden And Trump; Three Songs By Joes

Yeah, Another Blogger

I wasn’t expecting to write about autumn for a second time this year, seeing that I pretty well summed up my feelings about this, my favorite season, in an essay that hit cyberspace only last month (click here to read it). But I couldn’t resist. How could I, when colors on many of my neighborhood’s trees finally came alive on the 9th of November? How did that even happen? It was kind of a miracle really, because the leaves had been nowhere near as vivid even the day before. And, soon after the 9th, the colors diminished greatly in effect and stature, as our woody friends were having a contest to see which ones could de-leaf themselves the fastest. Yes, I was in the right place at the right time when I took an early afternoon walk through my community on the peak day.

There’s no doubt, however, that I’d have much preferred to wander among gorgeous trees in a forest, or in a substantial wood. You can truly commune with nature in those landscapes, unlike in most of my suburban Philadelphia region, where nature has been paved-over  and tamed significantly. But forests and woods are anything but around the corner from my house. A car not being at my disposal on the 9th, a visit to anywhere not within walking distance was off the table.

I wasn’t complaining, though, because my neighborhood looked so damn good. Golds, ambers, coppers, russets and burgundies abounded, and I was pleased as punch to roam for 45 minutes, soaking up their beauty, basking in their glory, etc. In other words, I dug the shit out of the color explosions! What’s more, the temperature was perfect (72°F, 22°C) and the skies were as soothing a shade of blue as you could hope for. Days such as that one don’t come around often enough, and are rarities in my part of the globe in normally pretty-chilly November.

I almost always listen to music during the walks that, for exercise, I take each week in one locale or another. But not this time. That gave me the opportunity to do a bit more thinking than usually happens during my treks. And what popped into my head and stayed there for a while? Why, thoughts about Joe Biden, a good guy, and Donald Trump, a f*cking jerk. That’s what!

Yup, I don’t like Trump even a teensy weensy bit, he who shamelessly has been trying to steal a decided presidential election. What is there to like about someone who is a force for chaos and darkness; who sneers at democracy’s principles and structure; who emboldens white supremacists; who can’t go more than thirty seconds without lying; who is callous, vindictive, narcissistic, uncivil, unhinged and a bully? Nothing, in my opinion. Yet, roughly 74,000,000 American voters gave him the OK in the recent election. That’s a highly unsettling and sobering truth for anyone who believes in equality and progress, and is concerned about American democracy’s stability and strength. Fortuitously, for the USA and for the rest of the world, about 80,000,000 voters, and a majority of electoral college votes, went for Biden. As a result, better days, saner days, lie ahead. And, by the way, those who agree with my assessment of Trump owe a huge debt of gratitude to Biden for entering the race last year, because I’m certain that no other Democratic Party candidate for president would have beaten The Despicable One.

As I inch closer and closer to this story’s exit door, I feel compelled to conclude the proceedings with hot, steamy recordings by three guys named Joe, all of whom, sadly, are no longer with us. I’m doing this in honor of Joe Biden, who is strongly with us and poised to undo much of the damage that Trump has inflicted at home and abroad during the last four years. Yo, Joe! — you and Kamala could do a whole lot worse than to boogie down to these tunes at your inaugural balls on Inauguration Day (January 20). They’ll fill both of you with loads of energy and get the two of you even more psyched than you already are to do your new jobs.

As for Donald Trump, these songs are appropriate for him too. They would make a fine soundtrack for him to angrily shake his oversized booty to as he leaves the White House, on the just-mentioned January date, for the final time ever.

Here, then, are recordings by Joe Tex (Show Me), Joe Cocker (High Time We Went) and Big Joe Turner (Shake, Rattle And Roll). Enjoy ’em!

152 thoughts on “Autumn Colors; Biden And Trump; Three Songs By Joes”

  1. johnlmalone November 23, 2020 / 12:51 am

    good choice of songs, Neil but you forget one that is very appropriate and a great song to boot: ‘The Games People Play’ by Joe South; you must remember it 🙂 a new era beginning, Neil, of healing and restoration; stay well ::)

    Liked by 3 people

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  3. Lynette d'Arty-Cross November 23, 2020 / 1:28 am

    Your photos are delectable! So beautiful.

    And Frumpy Trumpy? Given the numbers who continue to believe his lies and manipulations, there might be a lot of work to do. Joe’s got a lot on his plate. But, I read that he’s bringing some family dogs with him, a very good thing. 🙂 Trump kept referring to people as dogs, so we know what he thinks.

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  4. andrewcferguson November 23, 2020 / 3:02 am

    Suburban can be good, Neil! I guess we’re lucky where we stay, which is a planned post-war New Town, where the wooded areas are pretty extensive. Still, your neck of the woods looks pretty pleasant. Lovely pics as ever.

    As for the departing Idiot-in-Chief, I can recommend Chuck Prophet’s song ‘Get Off The Stage’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRLPZvyO4ic

    Liked by 1 person

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  5. Platypus Man November 23, 2020 / 3:50 am

    We, citizens of the rest of the planet, look on in dismay and disbelief at the post-election landscape in the US. You couldn’t make it up! But hey, your fall colours are wonderful and your rock’n’roll is pretty damn good too!

    Liked by 2 people

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:10 am

      Trump will continue to cause trouble and problems after he leaves office. He’s the pits. And the true danger is that millions and millions of people think like him.

      Liked by 1 person

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  6. Paddy Tobin November 23, 2020 / 4:56 am

    It is that number, 74,000,000, which truly blows my mind even more than the dreadful behaviour of Donald Trump. That there are 74 million people in the USA who think he and his ideas are what they want, are what are best for the country! It totally boggles my mind.

    We can seek sanity in the trees and the beautiful autumn display, a refuge in nature.

    Liked by 3 people

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:12 am

      Hi. It’s sad and troubling that vast numbers of people believe in Trump. There is something very wrong with those people.

      Liked by 1 person

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      • Paddy Tobin November 23, 2020 / 1:37 pm

        Keep up the good fight!

        Liked by 1 person

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  7. Steve Higgins November 23, 2020 / 5:34 am

    callous, vindictive, narcissistic, uncivil, unhinged and a bully? Do I get the impression you’re not a Trump supporter or am I missing something? 😀 All the best Neil.

    Liked by 1 person

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  8. Carolina Vann November 23, 2020 / 5:57 am

    For some ungodly reason, Republicans refuse to vote for a democrat, even when the Republican is a total asshole. Add to that a mixed race female, and they would have voted for Adolph over any Democrat. I think that many of those 74 million are relieved that the monster is leaving, but they would never admit it. They have missed the laughter that has always surrounded The White House. This administration had absolutely no sense of humor. They have missed the pomp and circumstance that the presidency has always brought, and above all, they have missed the respect that has always shown itself in the day to day functioning of our society. They weren’t raised this way. Joe has brought a collective sigh of relief around the world, and even a majority of that 74 million have to be feeling it.

    Liked by 3 people

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    • Carolina Vann November 23, 2020 / 9:26 am

      The core of Tr^^p’s base is nothing more than a cult, and they would all drink the Kool-Aid if he asked them too. I believe that two-thirds of them would choose living over dying if it ever came to that. Jim Jones, Warren Jeffries, David Korach, Adolf Hitler, and L. Ron Hubbard, have all commanded that kind of devotion, and you see where it got them and their followers. Evil is out there, but in the end, it loses….

      Liked by 1 person

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      • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:16 am

        Hello, and thanks for adding your thoughts and insights. I have to say though, that I believe that there is something wrong with the character and judgment of anyone who voted for Trump. They had the option to withhold their votes, and they didn’t do that.

        Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:18 am

      Unfortunately, he will never change. He will continue to cause big problems after he departs from Washington D.C.

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  12. swabby429 November 23, 2020 / 7:54 am

    The beautiful trees are a reward for surviving this completely bonkers year.

    Liked by 1 person

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  13. lexklein November 23, 2020 / 8:42 am

    I’m going to hope that what Carolina suggests is correct … that many of the 74 million who somehow brought themselves to vote for Trump did so for political and party line reasons and not moral or ethical ones, and that even they feel a sense of relief that their false prophet will soon be off center stage. Oh god, I hope so, for the sake of our country. You are wise to turn your thoughts to spectacular foliage and rock-and-roll!

    Liked by 2 people

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:21 am

      Hi. Even if some of them are secretly relieved that Trump has been voted out, there’s something very wrong with them for having voted for him.

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  14. Debra November 23, 2020 / 8:46 am

    Besides all the s***t Trump brought to the WH and the country, someone pointed out there was no art, no music, no pets, no true joy celebrated in his presidency. When Biden is installed, it will be like going from B&W to a full spectrum of glorious color…much like your fall photos.

    Liked by 1 person

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  16. JOYCE HAMILTON November 23, 2020 / 9:02 am

    Great photos, great summation of horrible Trump and great songs. 👍👍👍

    Liked by 1 person

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  17. Helen Devries November 23, 2020 / 10:13 am

    Those colours are just magnificent…and so fleeting. A good job you went out when you did. Tell me, are these trees people have planted in their gardens…or public space planting…or are they relics of the land before building took place?

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 11:27 am

      Morning, Helen. All of the photos are from people’s properties, not public spaces. In my neighborhood, which is quite large, there are what I think are some very old trees. But most are younger — I’m guessing anywhere from 20 to 80 years old or so.

      Liked by 1 person

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  18. Alyson November 23, 2020 / 11:01 am

    Beautiful trees – The best season for colours, hands down.

    As for your election, it’s been a riveting watch on this side of the pond too. I feel Joe will bring dignity back to the office of President, a dignity that’s been sorely lacking during the Trump era.

    Apt songs.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 12:48 pm

      I once heard someone say that they would vote for a tuna fish sandwich instead of Trump. I agree with that person. Trump has no idea what the word “dignity” means. And he doesn’t care that he doesn’t know.

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  19. rkrontheroad November 23, 2020 / 11:10 am

    Missing autumn back east, leaves are all gone here except for evergreens. Beautiful photos with the sun lighting up those brilliant colors. Enjoyed the rock n roll! And so looking forward to Joe’s administration. We already can breathe easier with the media moving away from dominance by the Don.

    Liked by 1 person

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  20. Catwoods November 23, 2020 / 11:32 am

    Those are stunningly beautiful tree pictures, Neil! I too am relieved at the outcome of the election, and hoping the transition will go smoothly.

    Liked by 1 person

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  22. greenpete58 November 23, 2020 / 12:17 pm

    Great songs, Neil, especially the Cocker tune. It’s high time the Cock-Roach went, but like you said, there’s something seriously wrong with this country that over 70 million people voted for “it,” not once, but twice. A lot of blame to go around, and the Republican Party bears most of it. The problems will continue. But…glad we elected a real leader and real man in Biden, and this brief bit of sunshine feels great!

    Liked by 1 person

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  23. Rosaliene Bacchus November 23, 2020 / 1:00 pm

    I, too, love the autumn colors. What a glorious tree–flaming passion!
    Those roughly 74 million voters have been occupying my thoughts lately. As you say, it’s “a highly unsettling and sobering truth.” They represent the other America left behind as the wheels of progress moved on.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 2:56 pm

      Well, some of them might be as you define them. But plenty of the Trump voters are just like Trump: nasty, bigoted, misguided, etc.

      Liked by 1 person

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  24. SandyL November 23, 2020 / 1:02 pm

    Agreed. It will be a relief when I no longer have to hear of/from/about Trump. He & his sycophants continue to make spectacles of themselves. I will be glad to have him purged from the airwaves and newsfeeds. Biden has a huge job ahead of him.
    On a more pleasant note … love your neighborhood. We had our first snow & it’s putting me in the holiday mood. December’s come early this year !

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 2:58 pm

      Afternoon, Sandy. Snow isn’t in the forecast yet for my region (greater Philadelphia) — and that’s fine with me!

      Liked by 1 person

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  25. Dave November 23, 2020 / 1:03 pm

    It’s interesting to see zero Trump replies to this post (so far), so let me be the first. I voted for him in 2016 and voted for him again this year and I stand by my vote. I’m not offended by any of the commentary here. A lot of it is true and the man certainly denied the office the dignity it deserves. But he also accomplished several good things for this country (and the world), which I hope history recognizes some day when looking back on his tenure. Now it’s Biden’s turn and I’m interested to see what his administration can accomplish as well. Bottom line: when the election results are certified Americans need to get on board with the Biden administration instead of stubbornly maintaining our party lines and therefore our divisiveness. It’s about a better America, no matter who leads the charge. Keep up the solid posts.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 3:01 pm

      Hey there, Dave. Well, despite your vote for him, Trump lost. And I’m thankful for that. People of incredibly low moral character, such as Trump, shouldn’t be in positions of power anywhere: In an ideal world, that would be true.

      Liked by 2 people

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  27. JT Twissel November 23, 2020 / 1:30 pm

    On the west coast we don’t get much of a show but my Japanese maples are quite glorious. Perhaps I’ll get my act together and post pictures today. What Trump has done is unfortunately going to take a while to undo. But like Joe says … ultimately his name will be forever linked to hatred and an attempt to take apart democracy.

    Liked by 1 person

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  28. cath November 23, 2020 / 1:41 pm

    Love your soundtrack, and your thoughts. We watch, with fascination, keeping our fingers crossed that something tortuous isn’t being incubated deep in that oval office.

    Liked by 1 person

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  30. Robert Parker November 23, 2020 / 2:06 pm

    Rocking trees, rocking tunes = good post, Neil!
    I’ve been playing “Better Things,” Ray Davies & Bruce Springsteen version “I know that better things are on the way.”

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 3:14 pm

      Sensible, forward-thinking people soon will be in the White House. Unfortunately, loads of backward-thinking people (most of them members of the Republican party) are in Congress.

      Like

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      • Robert Parker November 23, 2020 / 3:25 pm

        I’m already worrying about the mid-terms, that’s not much of a majority in the House. Fingers crossed for the Georgia senate seats, McConnell is another unpatriotic blot on the landscape.

        Liked by 1 person

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  31. viewfromoverthehill November 23, 2020 / 2:20 pm

    Yes autumn can be beautiful, but more beautiful is the election of Joe Biden for U.S. president. Yeah! He’s got a big job ahead of him and I wish him all the best.

    Liked by 1 person

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  32. talebender November 23, 2020 / 2:42 pm

    Wonderful pictures! Here in Ontario, we’re surrounded by dull browns, grays…..and a smattering of the white stuff! Couldn’t agree more with your political assessment…..we were starting to worry about the republic!

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 3:09 pm

      It’s hard to believe that Trump was elected in 2016. Of course, he lost the popular vote back then. But he won the majority of electoral college votes, which is why he took office (the electoral college system is, to me, outdated and ridiculous). The same thing happened in the George W Bush/Al Gore election.

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  33. workinacresnothours November 23, 2020 / 3:17 pm

    So im happy, blessed to be living in Australia.lol. I love your Autumn trees though at the moment the jacarandas are taking pride of place in our little town. Have a wonderful rest of the week my friend & I hope things start to look up for your country.

    Liked by 1 person

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  34. Anabel @ The Glasgow Gallivanter November 23, 2020 / 4:49 pm

    Pleased to see that one of your Joes is the legendary Joe Cocker! Totally agree with your assessment of Trump, he has no redeeming qualities. I fear for your democracy (and ours, seeing as we are saddled with his little pal Britain Trump).

    Liked by 1 person

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  35. Fictionophile November 23, 2020 / 6:51 pm

    Awesome post Neil. Like you, my distaste for Trump and all he has done – and all he stands for – knows no bounds. I’m SO happy that Biden won your election though I fear he has his work cut out for him trying to remove Trump from the white house (let alone undoing the damage Trump did in his years in office).

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 8:13 pm

      Hi. Yeah, he definitely will have his work cut out for him. But he and Harris are on the ball and are already making detailed plans and strategies. Sane, decent, cooperative people will be in charge as of January 20.

      Liked by 1 person

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  36. Paula B November 23, 2020 / 6:55 pm

    Wish we had those stunning colors here in the SF Bay Area! Alas, we do not not. Even earth tones are hard to find!

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 23, 2020 / 8:15 pm

      Yeah, but your city and surrounding areas have so much going for them. The ocean, the bay, the quirky streets, the Marin headlands, North Beach, Chinatown, etc., etc.

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  37. rivertoprambles November 24, 2020 / 8:14 am

    I believe that your neighborhood trees had a good reason to shake, rattle & roll with an explosion of color as the outcome of the election settled into the roots of America. So it’s high time He went, and we get a regular Joe again to try & put us on the road to health again.

    Liked by 1 person

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  38. snakesinthegrass2014 November 24, 2020 / 12:35 pm

    There is nothing not to like about this post, starting with those colors popping in the trees and ending with “Yo, Joe!” Well done. – Marty

    Liked by 1 person

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  39. Isabelle November 24, 2020 / 1:36 pm

    Your autumn colours are beautiful! Very atmospheric. Our autumn colours are fading away. We’re approaching winter. I think your view on the election is shared by many in the world.

    Like

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 24, 2020 / 3:19 pm

      Hey there, Isabelle. The autumn colors are disappearing fast from my area too. I’m not looking forward to winter. Take care. Thanks a lot for adding your thoughts.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply
  40. cincinnatibabyhead November 24, 2020 / 1:53 pm

    Man those are three great tunes. I remember when I left school (asked to leave) it was a to a chorus of Woody’s ‘So Long It’s Been Good To Know Ya”. Some CB lore for ya. Those pics are great Neil. Fall also brings a certain fragrance. We’ve been taking numerous strolls up here also. Beautiful. Later fella.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 24, 2020 / 3:16 pm

      I’m glad I researched Joe Cocker a bit for this story. High Time is a fantastic song. I hadn’t heard it in years.

      Liked by 1 person

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  41. lookingforthehigherself November 24, 2020 / 5:52 pm

    The photos of the red and yellow leaves are stunning. I do miss living in countries with seasons sometimes. I’m so relieved for the US that Joe got through, you are right he probably was the only one that could defeat the orange man. His cabinet pickings look so rational… no entertainers/ daughters/ son in laws… actual qualified and professional experts phewww… May the US and the world have better days in the next four years. Take care Neil!

    Liked by 1 person

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  42. annieasksyou November 24, 2020 / 11:04 pm

    Well, ya know I’m with you on the good riddance bit. I think for a while only Biden knew he was the one—he stuck with it when things looked quite glum. But I’ve been writing for a while how right he is for these times. And his appointments so far have been great.

    No; I’m wrong. In some part of that primitive brain, Trump knew it too—that’s why he got impeached.

    Anyway, your autumn scenes were great. Sad that the leaves all decided to descend as one this year. Will return manana for the Joe trio. A little late now. Thanks.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 25, 2020 / 7:25 am

      Biden is very much on the ball so far. And, par for the course, Trump continues to be an embarrassment.

      Like

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  43. Opher November 25, 2020 / 9:04 am

    Yes – I find it unbelievable that 74 million people can vote for sure a crass human being. I’m so glad he lost!

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  45. candidkay November 25, 2020 / 6:33 pm

    I think a lot of us are walking and thinking about the election results. Let’s hope all that ruminating ends up in some good ideas for unification, kindness and change. Sorely needed! Happy Thanksgiving and happy autumn.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 25, 2020 / 7:38 pm

      Hi, and thanks for stopping by. Well, I think that Biden and Harris are sensible and organized and forward-thinking. If the Senate remains Republican-controlled, then parts of the Biden agenda will run into roadblocks. In any case, the best part of all of this, to me, is that despicable Trump is leaving.

      Liked by 1 person

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  46. Mellow Curmudgeon November 25, 2020 / 7:47 pm

    Yes, your neighborhood looked great, well after mine went leafless.

    In a forest, the colorful leaves that have recently fallen may be the only ones easy to see; the ones on the trees are often obscured when trees are bunched together like standing passengers on the subway (B4 social distancing).  There’s a lot to be said for suburbs as places to admire fall foliage.

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 25, 2020 / 8:17 pm

      Hi. Good to hear from you. You make a good point. In suburbs that have decent numbers of trees, fall foliage can be beautiful.

      Liked by 1 person

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  47. selizabryangmailcom November 25, 2020 / 11:50 pm

    My scary belief is that if COVID hadn’t hit and he hadn’t handled it so badly, he definitely would have been reelected. So, like, you say, what would that mean? Who are those millions of people who think he’s A-OK, and why do they think that? That’s the question.

    Trying to let your pictures and tunes soothe me, but it’s hard goin’, Neil!

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 26, 2020 / 8:46 am

      I hadn’t thought about what you say in re covid, and I think you’re right: If covid hadn’t happened, Trump would have won. I don’t understand why he has so many supporters. Some of them are racists. Some are misguided in other ways. As for the rest, Trump seems to have hypnotized them and poisoned their minds. Bottom line is that I don’t really get it.

      Liked by 1 person

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  48. carolinehelbig November 26, 2020 / 12:27 am

    Gorgeous fall colours and a Biden win, it doesn’t get better! Happy Thanksgiving!

    Liked by 1 person

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  49. Pam Lazos November 26, 2020 / 9:05 am

    A fabulous walking tour as always, Neil. I think fall is my favorite season because of the explosive nature of it, all pomp and circumstance and outrageous colors. Happy Thanksgiving to you. I am grateful to benefit from your words and wisdom and to share this connection in the blogosphere. Have a great day!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
  50. tylerus November 26, 2020 / 10:32 am

    Stunning colors . . . beautiful pics, as always. OMG – seeing those 45s took me back (too far). LOL Thanks for sharing some great tunes!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    • Yeah, Another Blogger November 26, 2020 / 12:32 pm

      Hey there. You know, some amount of 45s are still being made. Vinyl had been dead for years. But around 20 years ago vinyl albums started to become somewhat popular. And to a lesser extent, vinyl 45s too.

      Like

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