In southwest Michigan

My mom's recent health scare prompted my dad to worry about the financial health of the local Wal-Mart. "I'm not sure if it's going to make it," he said, with a grin. Well, mom and I were able to venture out there today, twice. The place runs my hometown to the point where you almost have to succumb, no matter my usual political inclinations (actually, I've come to conclusion that all the big retailers do a lot of shitty things, and I wonder how places like Target get off scot-free, so I go to Wal-Mart on occasion even in Baltimore).

I was shocked that they have no Michigan State gear, though. All University of Michigan. For all those Walmart Wolverines, don't you know?

I wish this trip was longer. I've got one full day. But wow it's nice to relax and not think about my busy, harried life in Baltimore for just a bit.