Chicken Soup for the Senior Citizen Traveler

 

      Here we are on the verge of departure of our 11th year of post-retirement traveling.  It has been an eventful summer, let alone couple of years.  We realized a couple more projects around the farm, yet spent much of our summer waiting our place in the 'contractor line'.  In the end everything got done and we are completely satisfied with the work.  We highly recommend Paul Martin for anything trees and The Flooring Pros for the work on rebuilding the floor in our upstairs bathroom, entryway, and stairs. 

      After several years of helping to care for my mom long distance, she passed away peacefully in her sleep at the wonderful age of 95 on July 11th.  I am grateful to have been at her side when it happened.  My sister and her husband deserve all the credit for her wonderful care at the end of her journey since we sold the family home and she moved in with them in 2018.  Even with expecting the end, it was hard for all of us.  I can remember when we were children we'd have these family gatherings at the holidays, but sometimes in the summer.  Mom, my Aunts Lillian, Bonnie, and Betty labored in the kitchen for hours, making sure all our plates were full and everyone was fed.  You'd be hard pressed to find anyone saying a bad word about these ladies.  I expressed these thoughts at her graveside and although rehearsed for hours getting them out damned near killed me.  Now, the job as executor is in front of me.  I think Mom, Dad, and I planned pretty well.  They took care of their money and Barb and I helped out after Dad passed.  Mostly a matter of taxes now.  

      I turned 70 this year and my health is starting to show the wear.  Diagnosed with COPD about 7 years ago I have been through a few different inhalers to keep things at bay.  It really limits just how much and for how long you can do anything.  My bear hunt this fall exposed my gaps.  I also have a sleep study scheduled this month, but other than that, I'm just cruising along, pacing myself, and unsuccessfully working on 'that belly'.   We don't think of ourselves as 'old', but we know we're slowing down.  

      Barb is sailing along pretty smoothly herself.  She has had several appointments for minor stuff, but nothing major.  In fact, she has REALLY taken up the mantel for my limitations and makes me realize just how much we love each other.  I wouldn't exist without her.  Behind every good man should be a woman like........Barb. 

      I have for several years now tailored my cooking to healthier alternative and more portion control.  We do depend on the fish, clams, pasties, and occasional wild game we harvest in Washington and Michigan each year.  Additionally, we refill with more deer, pigs, and beef during our winter hiatus in South Central Texas at the Rotodome Ranch.  We don't shop for much more meat at the store other than poultry.  

      Travels are still fun and not much trouble.  The occasional hassle with the truck 'check engine light' or whether she brings the jeep along or not are the limit.  Once again, this year I spent a few $$$ to get her back up to snuff.  It's always EPA sensors or Check Engine Lights.  We always monitor our three biggest foes on the road:  gas prices, propane prices, and laundry prices.  A pretty low level of stress, actually.  Of course, occasionally someone forgets to thaw out tomorrow's entre and then we just order out anyways......lol.   We got the RV stocked up with freezers full of lake perch, UP Sausages and pasties, Chicken, Pork Belly, Ham Hocks, Corned Beef Brisket, corn, asparagus, and cauliflower.  Our preplanning always seems to work out just fine; 10 years' experience?  

      Roux and the Outlaw Josie Wales are doing fine, but just a little confused after being home for 4 months, then in the RV for 10 days during bear camp, then home again, but unable to move about much due to the remodeling.

  

      In 3 days, we'll be on the road again, headed south to Texas with stops in Oklahoma for our grandson (who has become a good cook in his own right) and Lockhart, TX for the Texas Monthly BBQ Festival.  In reality I have felt myself in a void since Mom passed.  Perhaps the reality of it all will take some time to fade, but for now I feel a bit lost at times.  

“The good thing about crying, I’d realized, was the catharsis you felt when everything finally came out. It was as though I’d cried tears of poison; poison that didn’t have to be inside me anymore.”

 Jeremy Jenkins

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The Golden Years: 5 Best Personal Protection Firearms for Seniors

 

      

      I turned 70 this summer, and although I am an educated, responsible, licensed gun owner of nearly 50 years now, I know that many our age are not.  The world is a much harder and rougher place than we have known for many years.  The government is no help and with an increasingly liberal society preaching to defund the police many of us depend on the 2nd Amendment, the bedrock of our country's history.  I am not going to regurgitate or debate anyone's particular agenda or belief system, but we have worked so hard to be where we are, why should we have to fear losing it to those who have no respect for the law or values our country has abided by for 247 years.  This is not an easy subject to broach, and as such, if you are not comfortable with it, then I ask you to move on.  RESPECT.

      There are many things to consider when thinking about a firearm for home protection past let's say, the age of 60, but it certainly applies to younger folks as well.  I am going to try to address most of these as well as provide a list of possible choices.  

      Remember that all these considerations should be tailored for each individual.  Women and men should each try to find a firearm that meet their own individual needs.  Let your lady to decide her own comfort and satisfaction.  I have known several men who decided singlehandedly what their lady should use, buying it only to discover that they when they use it they are not comfortable with it.  Take your lady with you and let her do the shopping fit and feel.  Better yet, find a range where she can test several weapons/calibers herself.  My wife has enjoyed her Smith & Wesson Model 3914 9mm for nearly 30 years now.  It is compact at 6", lightweight at 25 ounces, provides 339-foot pounds of knockdown power and the cost was $525.  Unfortunately, it is no longer made, but the picture helps with comparison and fit. 

 

       

      One of the most important factors is the size and weight of the gun. Seniors often have weaker hand strength and may struggle with a heavy gun or one too large to hold comfortably.  They should opt for a lightweight gun that is easy to handle.

      Another important consideration is the type of grip.  A gun with a comfortable grip will help prevent hand fatigue and reduce the risk of accidental discharge.  A grip that is too small or too large can also make it difficult to control the gun.  Seniors should look for a gun that has a grip that fits their hand comfortably and provides a firm hold.

      Sights are also an important feature to consider.  As we age, our eyesight can deteriorate, making it harder to aim accurately.  A handgun with high-visibility sights can help seniors to aim more accurately and confidently.  Additionally, a gun with the ability to install optics can be helpful for seniors who suffer from poor eyesight.

      Finally, the handgun should have minimal recoil, which can cause discomfort and make it harder to control the firearm.  The top calibers for reduced recoil are .22 LR, .380 ACP, and 9mm.

      Overall, seniors should prioritize comfort, safety, and ease of use when choosing a handgun.  By considering these important features, they can select a gun that will provide them with the protection they need without sacrificing comfort or safety.  Confidence is key here.  

      First of all, I will not recommend a self-defense rifle or shotgun; no ARs, no Mossberg 590s or Berretta 1301 Tactical weapons.  I will not recommend revolvers in the 357 mag or 44 mag calibers.  I recommend a simple semi-auto handgun.  

My personal recommendations

Walther CCP M2 Auto

      Initially known as the personal choice of James Bond 007, this gun has a well-deserved reputation for reliability.  This is the first polymer pistol with Softcoil gas technology.  This technology improves the user’s experience by reducing overall felt recoil and allowing the slide to be easily manipulated regardless of hand strength. The grip is very comfortable.  This gun is available in several colors.  

      

      A quality made German weapon, this gun holds 8 rounds and weighs in at just over 1 pound empty.  It has a trigger pull of 5.5 pounds which is on the reasonable scale for comfort.   Dimensions are 6.4 by 5.1".  Cost for this weapon is $449.  CCP M2 + | Black | A Walther Arms Concealed Carry Firearm

Smith & Wesson MP Shield 380 Auto

      Another American weapon in the compact concealed carry group, this one is also ergonomically designed for the smaller hand size and grip.  Perfect size for nightstand or carry, or a day at the range.  It is thin and lightweight - can be comfortably carried all day.  

      

      This weapon also holds 8 rounds and weighs in again at a 'smidge' over 1 pound.  It has a trigger pull of 5 pounds, again reasonable.  Dimensions for this gun are 6 .7 by 5".  This weapon sells for $454.  M&P® 380 SHIELD EZ® | Smith & Wesson (smith-wesson.com)

Sig Sauer P238 380 Auto

   This Swiss made sub-compact single-action pistol has a 6-round magazine capacity and the SIGLITE® Night Sights are removable and adjustable for windage.  It has fluted polymer grips and black metal finish. It has a 6-round magazine, weighs only 15 ounces, a 5.5 lb trigger pull, and is 5.5" by 3.9".  It retails for $569.   SIG P238 - 1911 Inspired Micro-Compact Pistol Series 380auto (sigsauer.com)

Kimber Micro 380 Auto

      American made, this weapon comes in seven different models:  stainless steel and color/grip combos.  It has steel sights, a 7 round mag, low profile tritium night sights, and a 7 lb trigger pull, a bit on the heavy side.  This weapon is a remarkably light 13.4 ounces and 4" by 5.6".  It is priced on the high side at $713.  Kimber America | Kimber Pistols - Micro

Glock 42 380 Auto

      This is the smallest Glock pistol available.  5.94" by 4.13", this is another in Austrian gun maker Glock's fine line of pistols.  Light at 15 ounces FULLY LOADED, it has a safe action system, 6 round mag, and an 8 lb. trigger pull.  The pistol retails at $419. 

GLOCK Inc. | GLOCK Pistols 

       All the weapons here are in the 380 ACP caliber.  The .380 ACP, with a handful of individual exceptions, is a subsonic round. Most bullet weights range between 75 and 95 grains. The Federal .380 ACP full metal jacket round weighs 95 grains, hits with the force of 203 foot-pounds at the muzzle and moves at 980 feet per second.  The advantage to .380 ACP is not power or velocity, but lighter recoil.  Remember these weapons would most easily suit older folks looking for a weapon to defend themselves and their property, but do not enjoy guns for other purposes.  

      Finally, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, seek out a qualified range and instructor whereas to test your gun and loads.  I would recommend shooting at no further than 15 yards.  Most self-defense situations occur well within this range.  Choose the combination with which you are most comfortable.  Learn the laws in your state and locality.  Take the training and get your Concealed Permit and keep it current.  This protects you, your handgun, and your family/property against all possible liability or action.  Lastly, keep it close/handy/locked.  Remember, you are not the criminal.  I pray none of us ever has to use it.  

"Self Defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a State Of Mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending."

 Rorion Gracie

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Twin Birch

 

        We have frequented this venue for over 23 years now, both golfing, and dining.  Recently they decided to completely demolish and renovate the facility.  The previous owners and chef did a wonderful job:  golf lessons, specials, meals, etc.  We loved the Monday Night $10.95 Porterhouse.  Ownership and times change as does everything.  I look for more of the same in the future.    

      I have heard wonderful things about the new menu. Barb loves the new design and so we decided to check it out.  We visited mid-week prior to our winter departure.  Seating is self-serve and spacious, over 40 folks.   

       When seated we perused the menu and decided to do a 'dining in' thing, and not the usual golf club snacks.  www.twinbirchgolf.com   They also recently added a breakfast menu.  

       They do offer a wonderful array of golf/bar/snack foods if that is your thing.  A wonderful Charcuterie selection as well as wraps, greens, burgers, wings, as well as soup and salad.  I hear great things about their wraps, sandwiches, salads, etc.  Additionally, they offer a Friday Night Shrimp and Fish Fry and a Saturday Prime Rib Night.  As I stated earlier, we chose to dine in on a Thursday with the entree specials.  Barb chose the Rib Eye Steak while I selected the Parmesan Crusted Whitefish. 

 

15 oz Ribeye, Boursin Mashed Taters, Broccoli 

Parmesan Crusted Whitefish, Cous Cous w/roasted tomatoes, artichoke hearts, 

and capers with steamed asparagus

      We both enjoyed our visit.  The atmosphere is exceptional, service excellent.  Barb loved her steak, but found the potatoes to be dry.  The fish was decent, while vegetables were very good.  The total tab for our meal was $69.82.  A bit pricey, but decent food. Another plus for Kalkaska.  

"A recipe has no soul, you as the cook must bring soul to the recipe"

Thomas Keller

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