Handyman Blues

“American men like to fix things. They love to do home repairs.” I was listening uncomfortably, glass in hand, to a know-it-all Brazilian lady who had lived in California for many years.  “Sure,” I told her, “many American men do love to tinker in the home.  Look at the great success of businesses like Home Depot. Unfortunately, I’m not one of them. A tool in my hand is a dangerous weapon. I promise you that I will do more harm than good whenever I  try to fix something. Instead of a fixer upper, I’m a fixer downer. I destroy things. … Continue reading Handyman Blues

One Dog’s Life in Peru

Dear Reader, the other day I went to check my email and found this letter on my computer. I thought you might be interested. Larry Hi Cousin, Thanks for the letter. Isn’t this dog internet great? My brother Falcor and I think that you have a perfect life on the farm, chasing sheep, and even catching a rabbit once in a while. Yum. Barking at the moon at night also seems like great fun.  In comparison, life in Barranco seems quite dull. (note from Larry: Barranco is the District of Lima, Peru, where we live) The best we can do … Continue reading One Dog’s Life in Peru

Getting Around in Lima

THE PURPLE BUS In Lima, the buses have different colors. I often ride the purple buses. They take me to and from the part of Lima where I work. I’m unusual. Many people I know never ride the bus. It is just for poor people they say. I guess they feel uncomfortable with poor people. Or they don’t want to be identified as poor. I don’t care about any of that. Those who feel that way will take a taxi or drive their own car. I gave up driving long ago as too stressful and too expensive. Most of the time, I also ride in a taxi. But, reflecting … Continue reading Getting Around in Lima