Galileo may have perceived heliocentricism as a cosmic truth, but here in Aurora we make the astronomical claim that the sun really does revolve around us. This year, instead of bedecking the manorial halls with prickly holly we prepare to emboss our roof with solar panels to soak up the celestial light, much to the advantage of our purse.
We also consider the potential of what little acreage we have in our possession and converting it into a marijuana farm, in excited expectation of the liberal laws regarding its illegality are overturned in January 2014. A profit-making proposition that should increase our income several-fold.
In the sphere of domestic issues… David completed his first year of employment in the field of recreational art therapy at Fitzsimons Nursing Home in Aurora, and is also currently a volunteer transcriber with the Smithsonian Museum, working on the Oscar Bleumner diaries. Kim received an impressive commission from a wealthy client in the U.K. to fabricate a pair of precious silver urns, the purpose of which is to house the ashes of two beloved Sphynx ‘bald’ cats. Kim and Bella ran their first 5K mini-marathon, Hannah was busy preparing for entry into Denver School of the Arts, Bea was placed on the Honors list at school.
Colorado was struck by fire and flood particularly this year. The freak tempest that descended on the region in September claimed at least eight lives. By the will of God we remained high and dry but many of our neighbors were forced to watch the terrible events unfold atop floating sofas. Hysterical reports claim that up to 30 inches of rain fell in just a few days, lawn-sprinklers only added to the confusion. The month of June saw several massive wild-fires in the Black Forest, Royal Gorge Bridge, and Canon City areas. Lasting over 10 days, more than 14,280 acres were affected in the Black Forest alone claiming two lives.
Our year was certainly brightened by the birth of a royal prince to Kate and William in July. I was fortunate to win a bet of several guineas on the child’s name – George Alexander Louis. In the national news we see the introduction of a new American compulsory health care system. The American dream is infected by the governmental demand that in matters medical there is no choice but to pay. In February Pope Benedict XVI resigned for reasons unknown. The Papal throne was assumed by Argentinian Marxist revolutionary, Jorge Bergoglio or ‘Francis’ the Bouncer.’ Liberation theology has become fashionable once again.
On a sad note we are witness to the death of Nelson Mandela, the South African luminary of civil rights, who worked ceaselessly against apartheid and remains a great inspiration to us all. Without people like Mandela, who sacrifice their lives in the name of justice, the world would certainly be a dark place. Despite his passing his memory and light remains as an inspiration for the future.
Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for 2014,
Kim, David, Bea, Bella and Hannah.
All Rights Reserved & Copyright 2013 David John Drew, 'Lord Carville'
