Staying afloat

Hi neighbors. July draws to an end and August lies in wait before us. Typically August is hot and dry in Missouri and most of the Midwest. If "people say" statistics are correct; most air conditioners break down in August.

"People say" also claims more heating units and oddly, house fires, occur in January; babies are born and people die more often between two and four a.m., water pipes break when no one is home, water heaters, toilets and washing machines spring leaks when you go on vacation and your doctor goes on vacation when your baby is due.

Many people live their lives with "People say" statistics and Murphy's Laws as their touchstones; whatever can go wrong will go wrong at the worst possible time as their motto and "oh, no" as their banner.

It seems these sad coincidences are too often true. However, statistics, even "people say" statistics, can be manipulated to compliment almost any theory, statement, or political agenda.

Sometimes things just happen when they happen for no noticeable reason. Too often though, we refuse to recognize the potential for an on-coming calamity because we choose to ignore small problems that have the potential to grow into big problems.

When the big problem finally hits, it seems to take us off guard and leave us feeling like victims of fate or just the objects of dumb luck.

Maintenance is the answer to prevent "people say" statistics from striking you and your family. Whether it be maintenance of your car, your home, your health or your lifestyle; consistent maintenance is the answer.

Having said that: I must apologize for a short Third Cup this week due to my own lack of diligence with small issues in my life that seem to have overwhelmed me for the moment.

Never fear, all is survivable and next week will be much better.

Until the next time friends remember, keep life simple, quiet and organized.