The Science Of Why You Should Spend Your Money On Experiences, Not Things | Co.Exist | ideas + impact

This is why my family craves vacations instead of stuff.

There’s a very logical assumption that most people make when spending their money: that because a physical object will last longer, it will make us happier for a longer time than a one-off experience like a concert or vacation. According to recent research, it turns out that assumption is completely wrong.

Source: The Science Of Why You Should Spend Your Money On Experiences, Not Things | Co.Exist | ideas + impact

Thoughts on flag burning and welfare

Your First Amendment at work

Your First Amendment at work


A shipmate of mine posted a photo meme from the “Right Wing News” Facebook page. It reads “Cancel the welfare checks of anyone who burns the U.S. flag. Share if you agree.”

This kind of asinine, knee-jerk, robot patriotism drives me nuts. Many mornings and evenings I have raised and lowered the American flag (we called it “colors”) on my ship while I served in the U.S. Navy. Out of all the tasks I had to perform whenever I stuck on the ship on duty, being color guard was my favorite. I considered it the deepest honor to smartly raise our nation’s symbol above my ship those mornings and to lower it and fold it solemnly at dusk.
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No City Council race for me this year

A lot of people have been asking me when I’m going to run for Raleigh City Council. It’s humbling to be considered for such public service and I appreciate all of the interest and enthusiasm for my potential candidacy.

While I considered it strongly, I have decided this is not my year to run. My family is not ready for me to devote the level of time and attention needed to do the job right. I also want to hang on to the few years left that our kids are at home. They are growing so quickly if I blink I’ll miss it.

I’ll still be involved – you know you can’t keep me from meddling! I just will do so as a civilian for the time being.

Thanks for your support and encouragement. When the time is right you’ll be the first to know.

Phydeaux and Seaboard Station

I was concerned several years ago when Raleigh’s only downtown grocery closed at Seaboard Station but pleasantly surprised when the Phydeaux pet store moved in. I normally don’t get attached to pet stores but I absolutely love Phydeaux. I feel like they know me, and that they are happy to be part of the community.

I was concerned when news spread last month that Phydeaux would soon be leaving Seaboard over concerns with its lease arrangement. Phydeaux is leaving in September for new digs at the current Briggs Hardware building at Atlantic Ave and Six Forks. Phydeaux is purchasing the building from the Scruggs family.
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