Mary Flaig's Blog

Why does it seem so clear that the spirit of the country is disintigrating into a media spawned, hateful place to be. Craigslist just pulled a poll on how many people wanted the President to be killed. This is so alarming to even consider and, yet, it's a very disturbing reality. We live in a democracy that is now being challenged by Fox Media. How many of the shows on that network incorporate threats to the President through their hate filled dialogue and guests. Shouldn't anyone that threatens the President be arrested?? It sickens us to see so much ignorance displayed daily in the media..I fear that it's fueled by basic racism--the Ku Klux Klan appears to be alive and well, appearing in our homes, under the guise of Glen Beck, Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity and their guests.

PBS started a new series, last night, focusing on US national parks. Created by Ken Burns, over a six year period, much of the opener focuses attention on "enviormental icon", John Muir. A naturalist and inventor, Muir had to "unconditionally surrender to nature" to feel whole--his temperment demanded it and in doing so became known as the "Father of the National Parks" system. His meticulous journals provided articles for many magazines and brought public attention to the wonders of Yosemite. Considered a pioneer in the conservation movement, he created the Sierra Club, and was it's president until his death in 1914. He truly was a "force of nature"...

So beautifully filmed, the show is a tribute to the artistry of Ken Burns in his depiction of the splendor of nature in this country...

We've noticed, over and over, how many in the media refer to President Obama as "Mr.", rather than "President". Did that happen with previous presidents? We don't remember it--or, at least it happening as often. I tried to find information online regarding the correct protocol, but was unable to. We find this disrespectful--we feel he should be referred to as "President Obama" or "Mr. President"...why is that so difficult for those commenting on him??

Sanjay is a medical reporter for CNN, a neurosurgeon and family man. He and his cameraman were stricken with H1N1, while in Afghanastan. They went to a battlefield hospital to be treated for their symptoms--hacking cough, high fever, lack of appetite, extreme sinus congestion and body aches. The treatment was Tylenol, IV hydration and sinus decongestant. They both felt better fairly quickly.

My cousin's visit, was unfortunately, cut short, due to me losing my voice. We had a great time, though, and toured all over the Cape, but, by last night my voice was gone. Not back yet. After reading symptoms of H1N1, my slight fever of a few days ago, sore throat and laryngitis must be of a different origin. R. took the day off to be my "hero"--making calls for me, doing errands and being near, if he can assist me. I write down what I need to communicate to him.

We just watched a segment of "Oprah", which featured actress MacKenzie Phillips, who's plugging her book, detailing an incestuous relationship with her father, John Phillips, the charasmatic singer from the 60's group, "The Mama's and Papa's". Very revealing look at their complex, drug induced intimacy...riviting interview. MacKenzie wants to bring incest "out" to be examined, not judged...much more prevalent than one thinks in our society.

Have I been hit with the H1N1 flu--after being exposed to so many people from all over, I wouldn't doubt it. Had trouble sleeping on Tuesday and woke up with a strange sore throat. Next day a slight fever took over--that went away, but, throat still bothersome and I feel like a really deep cough is going to come next...One day 500 people came through Kahn's Fine Antiques--waves of tourists, in and out--the next day approximately 250 did the same. My intuition told me I should be wearing a mask.

Need to be fully recovered by Monday, as a favorite cousin, M., is coming to visit for several days. I have plans for us to go to Truro and Provincetown one day, and, on the next drive down scenic 6A, to Sandwich, then, across to Mashpee Commons for lunch at Bleu, shopping at Banana Republic, the Gap, etc., with a stop at Starbucks, of course. Then, we'll return to Chatham after touring through Cotuit and Osterville. I want to show her where Robert (Driscoll) had his art gallery at the harbor in Osterville--to view that spot brings back so many memories of the beginnings of my artistic dreams being fulfilled...