Tuesday, May 9, 2023
You do something to me Something that simply mystifies me Tell me, why should it be You have the power to hypnotize me?
Let me live ‘neath your spell Do do that voodoo that you do so well Cause you do something to me That nobody else could do.
Those are Cole Porter’s extraordinary lyrics to the great song “You Do Something To Me” from “Fifty Million Frenchmen”.
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Yesterday we had another educational and remarkable day in Togo. One thing, if not the thing, is that Togo is the world center of what is known as “the good voodoo”. Our first stop was at the largest voodoo market in the world. I am no carrying a reasonably large white rock which will allow me to live a painless life to age 125.
We also visit one of the largest outdoor markets in the world. There is almost nothing one cannot buy. It was very hot and humid so Andy and I did not spend as much time shopping as our wives electing to sit in an air conditioned restaurant and have a drink.
We had a great guide and a great driver. Normally, all the driver does is drive, but yesterday we had a man who, not only was a great driver but a very kind nice man.
Our guide was very knowledgeable. His Father was married four times and fathered 21 children the last one at age 70. He is now 90. I asked our guide if we could meet him and, when asked the reason, said “I just want to shake his hand”.
In Togo everyone has the same name depending on the day of the week in which he/she is born. Everyone born on Monday has the same name, Tuesday the same name. There is a masculine and feminine version.
When I heard that I was reminded of joke about young American Indian boy who asked his mother how names were selected. The mother said that it depended upon was was happening at time of conception and that is why you sister is named “Running Water” and your brother “Falling Rock”. Why do you ask “Two Dogs Fucking”?
Lunch was not successful. We wait over an hour to get some food. Two people never got any. Finally, I left $20 on the table and we walked out.
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Last night at 6:15, Eugene the bandleader married to our housekeeper, put on a solo show. It was terrific. Eugene is from Ukraine. His Wife is from Russia. He is one of the most talented musicians I have ever encountered. In fact, the musical talent on this cruise has been top notch, far and away the best we have ever encountered on a cruise.
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So the jury nailed Donald Trump three cheers!? Five million is not chopped liver. Of course, there will be an appeal but I would be more than amazed if Trump won. If I were on other side, I would consider a cross -appeal. She did well, but could have done better and why not put Trump in a position where he could do worse?
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With the big news on Trump, keep in mind that George Santos is now going to face criminal charges
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The names Grant Hill and Dwayne Wade are being looked at as possible challengers to Florida Senator Scott. I would support either in a heartbeat. I love Hill who I regard as a truly extraordinary person. I think, however, that Wade is more electable because of his name recognition. Hill would be a superstar in Washington, but Wade has a better chance of getting there.
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Now we have four sea days. Have to get ready to pack up. We have had an unbelievable trip.
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Very bad day in market yesterday and expect many more until debt ceiling issue is resolved.
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See you tomorrow. At least that is my plan.
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Go Ukraine