An earlier column mentioned my growing stack of scribbled notes. The tidbits of information were kept to remind me of topics I might later revisit. Most were added to the pile because I wasn’t sure how to fit them into a column. A few are on hold until the statute of limitations expires. Lately I’ve begun trying to shorten the stack before it topples over.  

First though, I’m not sure if “topples” should be followed by “over.” It seems over would be understood unless needed to clarify direction. Something might topple forward, backward, or sideward I suppose. If you choose to keep reading, be forewarned that useless ponderings of this nature are scattered throughout my scribbled notes. 

The late Harry Hamrick was a master at finding little jewels among everyday events. He wrote a weekly column for decades in The Unadilla Observer and its successor The News Observer. I wish I could stop by Hamrick’s Furniture Store and visit for a spell. He could offer sound advice on how to separate the grain from the chaff. 

Mr. Harry’s long-running feature was called “Whatcha Callit.” I’ve seen other columns and publications with good names for catch-all writing. Bits and Pieces is one that comes to mind. I debated what to call today’s musings, eventually deciding that “Rambling Thoughts” was preferable to acknowledging “A Rambling Mind.” 

“Jabberwocky” might be a more appropriate heading, but it’s a new word for me and probably not familiar to either of my regular readers. Merriam-Webster emails a “Word of the Day” and that one came as I was considering titles. The timing seemed uncanny as I read the definition – “meaningless speech or writing.” Perhaps it was a sign.

I don’t know if “Rambling Thoughts” will be a one-time feature or become an intermittent series. I’m already realizing how easy it is to get sidetracked before ever getting to my stack of notes. The jabberwocky of a rambling mind is unpredictable.

Let’s start with a note I made regarding a TV ad. The clip features David, a Georgia pharmacist and real Prevagen user. His gray hair, warm smile, and friendly demeanor convey a beloved, grandfatherly figure. David is probably a wonderful man and excellent pharmacist, but I’m not sure it’s a good idea for someone who needs Prevagen to be filling prescriptions.     

Another ad, this one from the February 20th edition of our local paper, set off my scam alarms. For legal reasons this is an opinion not an accusation. The small ad featured several items for sale, including  “Limited Collection Trump 1oz Silver Coins – Very Rare, from Trump’s first Presidency – $5000.00 per coin.” I looked online and found what appears to be an identical coin for $50. I’m guessing the Howard Miller Floor Clock offered for $7000 might be a bit overpriced also.

That same ad probably appeared in multiple publications, which would suggest those “very rare” coins may be quite plentiful. If you run enough deceptive ads, a small percentage of trusting people will get scammed in a big way. But that’s just an opinion.

There was something else I planned to mention today, but it slipped my mind. Maybe I need Prevagen. The Joiner’s Corner Research Department says Prevagen is highly recommended by the folks who make it and many of those who sell it.  

That’s enough rambling thoughts for one column. I didn’t make much headway on reducing my stack of scribbled notes, but that’s okay. The stack hasn’t toppled over, and I had an epiphany while writing. Jabberwocky is best dispensed in small doses.