Protest & uPrzyjaciel cafe.

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Hopefully, tomorrow’s protest across the United States will be the largest one yet, a moment of unity and expression that rises to meet the urgency of the times.

Today, under the spell of another beautiful day, I took Joan out for a little outing. We went to a cafe she’s technically been to before, though she doesn’t recall the visit. I decided not to remind her, some moments are better enjoyed as if they’re entirely new.

The place is called uPrzyjaciel (which means “among friends”), a cozy little cafe I’ve written about in the past. One of its best features is the conveniently located handicapped parking spot right out front, which made things much easier for us. Rather than sitting inside, we chose the garden area, which offers a bit of quiet charm tucked away from the bustle of the city. To reach it, you pass through a small corridor between the buildings, and then suddenly you’re in this hidden patio space nestled in the heart of the square.

The surrounding buildings are aged, full of character, and seem to whisper fragments of history. The garden itself is enveloped in greenery, bushes and trees offering both shade and serenity. There's a sort of quiet intimacy to the space that makes you want to linger. A lovely detail: many of the tables are crafted from the bases of old Singer sewing machines, blending nostalgia with function in a way that feels thoughtful.

We ordered two coffees and shared a slice of chocolate cake topped with whipped cream and a scoop of ice cream. The coffee was satisfying, rich and warm, but the cake, sadly, didn’t quite measure up to the high bar set by Sowa’s confections. As for the ice cream, it was unidentifiable, and not in a way that suggested mystery or intrigue.

Afterward, since we were nearby, we took a short walk over to Plac Wolności. We found a bench and settled in for some relaxed people-watching. There’s something grounding about simply observing the world go by, families, students, the occasional dog trotting along. We stayed for about an hour and a half, soaking up the atmosphere, before finally heading home.

Food shopping. Estonia, and Peace Talks.

Another day of food shopping for the week. Another 225+ PLN($60) spent. Oh, well! At least we can still afford food.

It was a good weather day here,sunny and warm. I took Joan out for a little while and when we returned home, we listened to the latest speech of our Govenor of Illinois, Govenor Pritsker. He finally made a speech about apposing the Trump administration.

For dinner, I made a large fruit salad that Joan and I enjoyed.

The only bummer of the day was being able to meet with Radek for our weekly meeting of English/Spanish conversation.  

Meanwhile: Estonia & Ukraine.

The (second) Ukrainian diaspora has integrated well into most European economies and many have normal lives in their adopted homes, and they are, by and large, excellent low-cost labor that wealthier states really would prefer not to lose. Estonia-Ukraine flag image.

Ukraine and its European allies said that even if the US were to agree that Russia had legally annexed Crimea, they would not. The United Nations, with very few exceptions, is of the same point of view. Were the US to pursue foreign policy in the face of that, the US would make itself a sanctions target and take a very big step towards decoupling its economy from the rest of the world, and tightening ties with Iran, Russia and North Korea.

The US “deal” only works if everyone agrees to the US/Russia proposal about accepting that Crimea is now part of Russia, but if no one agrees but Russia and the White House, that kills the deal.The contents of the US Constitution are in the public domain. It’s very clear that US acceptance of Russian annexation of Crimea permanently would require 60 votes in the Senate – the White House doesn’t have a ghost of a chance of getting the votes.

 

Botanical Gardens.

 Gabriela arrived at 11:00 and it was time for my break.

I drove to Auchan to buy sesame seeds and dates because they sell the large 1 kg bags at the lowest price. I had success with the seeds but the date shelf was empty. It's easy to understand why. They sell from two different producers. One has a price of 30 PLN and the other, 11 PLN. Both bags are filled with 1 kg so I don't know why one is so much cheaper. The higher priced ones are not any fresher than the lowest priced so that is not the reason. Being out of the lower priced ones happens often enough. I will have to ask the manager when is restock day for the dates.

I stopped at the cafe on Myslewich street on the way home and had a cup of coffee while I checked the latest political news from the U.S. SOS. just another day of more chaos. What the U.S. needs is Raymond Reddington to straighten it out. "-)

 

Hello 81!--Retirement & Life

Since retiring, 17 years ago,  life has taken on a wonderfully unhurried rhythm for Joan and me. These days, every morning feels a bit like the weekend, unstructured, calm, and free from the usual demands of a set schedule. For the most part, we don’t have to wake up at any specific time, and that small freedom has become one of retirement’s most treasured gifts.

There are only one or two exceptions to this leisurely pace, moments in the week where time still gently taps us on the shoulder. One of those mornings is either Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on when Joan’s sitter is scheduled to arrive, or when I’ve made plans to meet up with my friend Radek. The other is Sunday, which has become a kind of ritual, my weekly conversation with Michal at 11:00 a.m., a connection I look forward to and try not to miss.

Today was one of those blissfully unscheduled days. The sunlight was already stretching across the room by the time I stirred, and without any particular reason to rush, I finally rose around 10:30 a.m., enjoying the simple luxury of waking up slowly, at my own pace. In these moments, I’m reminded that retirement isn’t just an end, it’s a gentle beginning of a new, more peaceful chapter.

It’s a bit surreal to pause and realize that I’ve been on this earth for 80 full years, and that today marks the beginning of my 81st. There’s a quiet weight to that number, not heavy in a burdensome way, but rich with meaning, memory, and experience. I won’t ask the familiar question, “Where did the time go?”, because the truth is, I know exactly where it went.

The years unfolded in a steady stream of moments, choices, and chapters—some planned, some unexpected. I may not always understand why life took a particular turn or how one decision led to another, but in most cases, those turns were mine to make. The path wasn’t always straight, and the reasons weren’t always clear, but the agency was there. I steered the course, for better or worse, and that brings with it a kind of peace.

Looking back, I see a tapestry of people, places, and lessons, of mistakes that taught me, joys that sustained me, and even the quiet, ordinary days that built the foundation of a life well lived. And as I step into this next chapter, I do so with gratitude, not just for the time I’ve had, but for the awareness that I’ve been present in it, shaping it as I went.

Apteka bill & Ukraine.

As seniors living in Poland, we take part in the national health care system. For seniors, many medicines are totally free. That is a huge benefit of living here.  In the U.S., the cost would be at least 10 times higher resulting in consuming almost all of our social security check each month.

When I went yesterday to get the prescriptions, it seemed the cost was higher than before. I just assumed it was inflation.

At home, I checked the bill and found what I thought was a discrepancy. It has to do with the medicine, Atrox. Joan and I both take it to control our cholesterol. Joan's was free, but for mine, there was a charge. I didn't think that was right.

Today, I took the receipt and went back to the Aptekaa to question the charge. The pharmacist told me they only make charges according to the way the doctor writes a prescription. In this case, the doctor wrote free for Joan, not for me, even though the quantity, milligram, and amount were the same. Now, naturally, I will have to make an appointment to talk to the doctor about this.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Moscow’s concession in the US peace deal is simply that it does not keep invading Ukraine and take territories it does not even control.

On Wednesday, Vice President JD Vance said an “explicit proposal” was issued to Kyiv and Moscow without naming the terms, adding that Washington would withdraw from the deal if no progress were made.

While Vance said both parties would have to “give up some of the territory they currently own,” Trump, when asked about the concessions proposed to Moscow on Thursday, answered “stopping the war” while suggesting that not “taking the whole country” is a “pretty big concession,” according to CNN.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country would never recognize Crimea as Russian because it is enshrined in Ukraine’s constitution.

Gabriela & Weather

Gabriela came by today and gave me the chance to go to the Apteka to refill Joan’s medications for the next three months. The total cost came to 186 PLN, about $50. It’s a striking reminder of how much Poland’s National Health Care system supports its senior citizens. For all the frustrations we might sometimes feel with bureaucracy, there’s a quiet dignity in a system that ensures the basics are affordable, even as we grow older and more vulnerable.

The last two days have been gray, cloudy skies, steady rain, and that persistent chill that seeps into your bones if you're out too long. Not the kind of weather you want to bring someone fragile outside in, especially someone like Joan. So we’ve stayed in. Maybe I’m overprotective of her health sometimes, maybe even a bit controlling. But at this stage, caution feels less like fear and more like love in its most practical form. It’s a necessary restraint, a small sacrifice for her well-being.

I’m incredibly grateful for Gabriela. Her twice-weekly visits are more than just a break for me, they’re a breath of fresh air for both of us. Those three hours give me time to step away, catch my breath, and reconnect with myself. But more importantly, they give Joan companionship, someone else to talk to, laugh with, and share stories with. A woman’s voice, a different energy. That balance matters. Gabriela and Joan get along wonderfully, and Gabriela almost always stays longer than she needs to. I get the sense that being with us offers her something unexpected, perhaps a glimpse into a life lived with depth and color, the kind of stories that don’t come from textbooks or training, but from time, love, and shared experience.

 It’s not always easy, but there are these small moments—these pieces of connection and care—that stitch the days together with quiet meaning.

 https://open.substack.com/pub/davidpiekarczyk/p/he-must-go?r=fcnbl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Nice Surprise.

I thought it would be nice to take Joan out for coffee and cake at Sowas, a little outing to enjoy the afternoon together. We headed over with the usual anticipation, only to find that it was still closed for Easter. A bit disappointed but not ready to give up on the idea of our coffee break, I decided, on a whim, to take a detour to a place filled with old memories—our old hangout, where Joan and I used to meet up with our dear friend Zbyszek.

We hadn’t been there in several years. The place had lost its charm for us after a renovation. They’d replaced the cozy, cushioned chairs with stiff, inexpensive wooden ones, making it far less inviting. That was when we stopped going and made Sowas our new go-to spot.

To our surprise, Kandulski’s was open. I found a parking spot nearby, and we decided to go in and take a look.

The moment we walked through the door, we noticed something unexpected: the wooden chairs and plain tables were gone. In their place were comfortable seats and soft, upholstered sofas, very much like the ones they had many years ago, before the renovation. It felt like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. Joan and I exchanged a smile, we were both genuinely pleased.

One of the things we always liked about both Sowas and Kandulski’s was the way they priced their cakes, by weight. It allowed you to choose just how much you wanted, and you paid accordingly. A practical and fair system, we thought.

That changed when Sowa altered its approach. They began cutting the cakes into smaller, fixed-size portions and charging a set price for each piece. While it seemed more straightforward, it also led to higher costs for less cake.

Kandulski, however, still sticks to the original method, pricing by weight, which ends up being more economical, and somehow feels more honest.

After today’s visit, and the pleasant surprise of the old atmosphere returning, we’re seriously considering making Kandulski’s our regular spot again. It felt like reconnecting with a long-lost friend. Sometimes, a spontaneous change in plans brings you right back to where you belong.

Easter, Today& Ukraine news.

Easter morning began peacefully, with the soft light of spring streaming through the windows. I decided to start the day with a simple but comforting breakfast, scrambled eggs, white sausage, and toast. The smell of the sizzling sausage filled the kitchen, mixing with the buttery warmth of the toast and the creamy texture of the eggs. It was a modest meal, but it felt just right for the occasion.

Later in the day, we were surprised and touched by the generosity of our landlady, Renata. She stopped by with a delicious homemade Easter dinner, tender pork roast, fluffy mashed potatoes, and a beautifully glazed orange babka, which added a bright, citrusy note to the table. To round out the meal, I prepared a fresh vegetable salad, adding a crisp, colorful balance to the rich and savory dishes. It all came together wonderfully, and we felt truly grateful for both the food and the kindness behind it.

The weather couldn’t have been better, mild and sunny, with a gentle breeze in the air, so I decided to take Joan for a drive through the countryside just north of our home. The trees were budding, and the fields stretched out in soft greens and browns, promising the full bloom of spring not far off. It was peaceful out there, a quiet contrast to the busyness of the world.

When we returned home, we spent some time watching videos from Saturday’s protests, powerful scenes that reminded us of the current tensions and the growing voices calling for change. We followed that with a bit of anti-government news coverage, trying to stay informed amidst it all.

Later in the evening, we wound down with a movie, letting the intensity of the day's news give way to something a bit more relaxing. All in all, it was a full and meaningful day, quietly celebratory, with moments of reflection, connection, and calm.

Today was a beautiful day weather-wise—mild and pleasant, even though the sun never fully came out. Joan and I took advantage of the nice weather to visit the newly constructed Berdychowski pedestrian bridge, which stretches gracefully across the Warta River. The bridge is striking in its modern design, thoughtfully built to accommodate not just pedestrians but also cyclists and wheelchair users.

Since it was still part of the Easter holiday period, most of the stores were closed, which gave the whole city a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. That calm seemed to draw many people out for a leisurely walk, and like us, they ended up at the bridge. It felt like the whole community had the same idea—to enjoy the open air and explore this new architectural addition to the cityscape.

Meanwhile: Ukraine

Ukrainian forces repelled a massive Russian assault in the south, eliminating 140 troops, destroying 29 pieces of military equipment, and damaging three tanks, the Southern Defense Forces reported.

Key moments of the assault’s defeat – Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance and artillery targeting Russian forces, followed by multiple explosions and billowing clouds of smoke. However, Kyiv Post was unable to independently verify the time and location of the recording.

According to the report, the Russian assault group involved at least 320 personnel, 40 armored combat vehicles, three tanks, and about a dozen buggies.

Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance spotted the advancing Russians however, and both drone and artillery units launched strikes. The first Russian losses – three infantry fighting vehicles (BMPs) – reportedly occurred 8 kilometers before the line of combat contact.

“Enemy losses: 29 units of military equipment destroyed, 140 personnel, three tanks damaged.” the report reads. “The enemy failed to achieve any success, and the Ukrainian Defense Forces held all their positions.”

Protests & media coverage

Another day of national protests shows the thousands of Americans opposed to the current Republican administration. It wasn't just in the big cities. Many small or mid-sized towns or groups were involved also. 

It was very disappointing to see major news sources not spreading the events on the front pages or screens for the country to read or see. YouTube or social medias had much better coverage of the day. Rachel Maddow and Meidas Touch on YouTube had many videos and pictures, even of one town where there were only 5 people protesting, but they were.

The question is...where do we go from here?

Protest. Paul Revere & Coeur D;arlene

It's an early morning writing so the protests in the U.S. haven't started yet. I will update them later tonight.

As I wrote earlier, I don't want this to become a political blog. However, at times, I will express my own opinion and observation of the tyranny being forced by the trump administration.

I stayed up late last night because I wanted to attend the Lantern Service, the lighting of the lanterns in Boston’s Old North Church, which happened 250 years ago last night. It was also an opportunity to hear the keynote speaker, Dr. Heather Cox Richardson.

She talked about Paul Revere and what led up to the time when the lanterns were lit in the belfry of the Old North Church that eventually led to a new nation being born, the United States of America. However, it wasn't just about Paul Revere.

Paul Revere didn’t wake up on the morning of April 18, 1775, and decide to change the world. That morning began like many of the other tense days of the past year, and there was little reason to think the next two days would end as they did. Like his neighbors, Revere simply offered what he could to the cause: engraving skills, information, knowledge of a church steeple, and longstanding friendships that helped to create a network. And on April 18, he and his friends set out to protect the men who were leading the fight to establish a representative government.

And once in a great while, someone will light a lantern—or even two-that will shine forth for democratic principles that are under siege, and set the world ablaze.

Today is our day, each one of us, to light those lanterns and take back our country. It is a national day of protest against the Trump administration. They are taking place in every state capital, the nation's capital in Washington D.C., post offices, federal buildings, representatives' offices, and street corners. We, the People, are pissed,

In Couer D'Arlene, Idaho, in a Republican town hall meeting, a protester was dragged out of the meeting by 5 "security" guards with NO official warrant or standing. This was done while the local sheriff approved and looked on. 

The names of those men are: 

Paul Trouette: CEO of Lear Asset Management — a private security firm with a track record of militarized tactics and zero regard for the law. He’s been charged with battery, false imprisonment, and violating Coeur d’Alene’s security rules. This wasn’t the first time Trouette and his crew acted like they were above the law — just the first time a city finally pushed back.

Alexander Trouette IV: His presence reeks of nepotism. No badge. No marked uniform. No justification. He’s been charged with multiple violations.

Christofer Berg: Former city employee turned security enforcer. He knew better. He did it anyway. Now he's facing the consequences.

Russell Dunne: Charged with battery and false imprisonment. No license on file. Just muscle and arrogance.

Jesse Jones: Filmed the whole thing like it was a highlight reel. He didn't just participate — he documented his own crimes.

Michael Keller: Not even part of the security team. Just another man who decided that silencing dissent was worth getting violent over. Charged with battery.

Sheriff Bob Norris was not a passive witness. He was an active participant. When Borrenpohl pushed back on his narrative, he told her to leave. She refused — as was her right in a public forum. So he turned to the private muscle, nodded, and let them take over.

Charges have been filed. Affidavits are incoming. But justice doesn’t end with courtroom procedure. It requires clarity. Accountability. And the courage to call this what it was:

An assault on democracy by men who thought they could get away with it.

They were wrong.

Cafe uPrzyjaciol.

Today, the weather was warm and bright, with clear skies and a high of 83°F. It was my second day with a three-hour break from taking care of Joan—a brief but welcome moment of time to myself.

Yesterday, Gabriela and I were chatting, and she told me about her favorite café in Poznań: u Przyjaciół. As she described it, something about the name rang a bell. Then I remembered—I had visited it a few years ago, but only the garden area outside. I’d never been inside, so when she began explaining how unique and cozy the interior was, I realized I had no idea what it actually looked like. Curious, I asked her to show me pictures online, and what I saw intrigued me enough to want to go see it for myself.

This morning, I drove out to the café and, luckily, found a handicapped parking spot right in front—an encouraging start. From the outside, it looked charming as I remembered, but stepping inside truly surprised me in the best way. It wasn’t just a large room with tables like I had expected. Instead, the space was cleverly designed with intimacy and comfort in mind.

Down the center of the room runs a narrow aisle, and along each side are cozy, semi-private seating nooks. Each nook has a long wooden slab of a table, flanked by two cushioned two-seater couches. Behind each couch is a fabric screen that gently sections off the space, giving each group a bit of privacy without feeling closed in. It had a warm, inviting atmosphere that felt thoughtfully put together.

I settled into one of the nooks, ordered a cup of coffee, and quietly took in the ambiance. At the far end of the table hung a set of intriguing art prints—quirky and colorful—adding even more charm to the space.

One downside I quickly noticed: the central aisle is unfortunately too narrow to accommodate a wheelchair, which means I won’t be able to bring Joan inside. However, the garden section, which I’d visited years ago, is fully accessible and would be a nice option when we want to go together.

I forgot to mention a small but memorable detail from my visit to the café—something that added a quiet layer of depth to the whole experience. When they brought my coffee to the table, it arrived not just with the usual sugar and spoon, but also with a business card tucked neatly beside the cup. At first glance, I assumed it was just a standard promotional card. But when I picked it up, I noticed it wasn’t just advertising—it had a message printed on it, almost like a fortune cookie.

The card read: “Open your eyes. The world in which you were born does not exist anymore.”

I paused for a moment, rereading the sentence. It caught me off guard—not because it was ominous, but because it was true in a quiet, undeniable way. According to the card, the café had opened in September 2021—just a short time ago, yet already settled in like it had always been part of the neighborhood. Still, that quote lingered with me more than the date.

As I sat there, sipping my coffee and watching people pass by outside the window, my thoughts drifted across the ocean to the United States. That one sentence—so simple and direct—summed up something I’d been feeling for a while. The familiar version of the world I grew up in, with its predictable rhythms and certain assumptions, really does feel like it's gone. Not just changed, but transformed—sometimes in subtle ways, sometimes in ways you can’t ignore.

It was a surprisingly profound moment for such a casual visit. All sparked by a cup of coffee and a little card I almost overlooked.

After enjoying my coffee and a bit of quiet time, I returned home around 2 PM. The sun was still strong and inviting, so I helped Joan change into a pair of shorts and her sandals. We headed out for a stroll in Solecki Park. Gabriela joined us—she lives nearby—and it was lovely to have her along for the stroll.

Fantastic News!

 

In the fabled city of Las Vegas, a place known for its bright lights and larger-than-life dreams, a rising star of the next generation is quietly making a name for himself in the world of film. His name is Cooper Nelson—a talented young actor whose journey began at an early age with small roles in commercials, slowly building his experience and honing his craft.

Even as a child, Cooper was drawn to the spotlight, attending audition after audition with a determination that set him apart. He faced the highs and lows of the industry with quiet resilience, never losing sight of his goal. That drive and passion are now beginning to pay off.

I know Cooper not just as a promising actor, but as family—he's the son of my cousin, Heather Zabinski-Nelson. Watching his growth from afar has been both exciting and inspiring. His breakout performances in projects such as Look What You Made Me Do (Reimagined) (2020) and One Among Us (2021) began to showcase his depth and range as an actor.

In 2022, Cooper took a significant step forward in his career when he appeared in Prisoner’s Daughter, a film that allowed him to share the screen with industry heavyweights Brian Cox and Kate Beckinsale. Holding his own alongside such acclaimed talent speaks volumes about his skill and potential.

With each role, Cooper continues to carve out a space for himself in the entertainment industry. From the neon lights of Vegas to the big screen, his story is just beginning—and it’s one worth watching.

Cooper's most recent work showcases just how far his talent has come. He starred in a powerful short film titled The Fairfax Incident, a gripping project that has already started turning heads in the independent film scene. The film was recently nominated at the prestigious Las Vegas Black Film Festival—an incredible honor in itself.

But the real excitement came just two weeks ago, when Cooper received a life-changing phone call: he had been nominated for Best Actor for his performance in The Fairfax Incident! The news was nothing short of thrilling for everyone involved—especially for Cooper and his proud mother, Heather. To be recognized in such a meaningful way at only seventeen years old is a remarkable achievement, and a clear sign that his star is rising fast.

The Fairfax Incident is scheduled to be screened at the Suncoast Cinema during the festival on April 25th, and there's a palpable buzz building around the event. The entire cast and crew poured their hearts into the project, and the recognition it’s receiving is a testament to their dedication and passion.

As for Cooper, this nomination not only validates his years of hard work and perseverance, but also marks a major milestone in what promises to be a long and successful acting career. The city of Las Vegas may be known for its bright lights—but there’s a new star shining among them.

Read All of This!

 

 If you're an American, you should read all of this. This is especially true for anyone who voted for Trump. Is this what you wanted or expected from him?

 The two tipping points for when we officially become a dictatorship could occur this week

 https://robertreich.substack.com/p/the-two-tipping-points-for-when-we

Kornik Arboretum.

Today, the weather was absolutely exceptional—one of those rare, perfect spring days that seem tailor-made for being outdoors. With the sun shining and a gentle breeze in the air, it felt like the ideal opportunity to visit the arboretum next to the historic Kórnik Castle.

Once we crossed to the other side of Poznań, it was a short 15-minute drive to the quaint town of Kórnik. Over the years, we’ve made this trip several times, usually when we’re playing host to visitors. That doesn’t happen too often, so each visit to the castle and its grounds feels a bit special, even familiar in a comforting way.

To our surprise and good fortune, we found one parking spot available—right in front of the castle gates. Though the castle itself is a marvel, we decided to skip touring the interior this time. We’ve seen it on several past visits, and without an elevator, only the ground floor is accessible to Joan, which limits the experience for her.

I helped Joan into her wheelchair, paid the 20 PLN (around $5) entrance fee, and we set off on our walk. We made our way around the castle to one of the highlights of the arboretum: the magnolia trees. They were in full, glorious bloom—large, fragrant blossoms in delicate shades of pink and white, glowing in the sunlight. Naturally, I couldn’t resist taking dozens of photos. There’s something fleeting and magical about the magnolia season that always compels you to capture it before it slips away.

After soaking in the beauty of the magnolias, we continued our stroll through the rest of the arboretum, winding along peaceful paths lined with a stunning variety of trees and plants. On the west side of the grounds, the proximity to the road made things a bit noisier, which somewhat interrupted the tranquility. But the east side was much quieter, enveloped in a gentle hush that made it feel like a secret garden tucked away from the world. That side is my personal favorite, even though it’s less colorful—there’s something deeply soothing about it.

As we wandered through the shaded trails and admired the old trees, I found myself thinking about the castle’s past. I can only imagine how magnificent this place must have been when the original owner lived here, surrounded by such beauty and serenity every day. Even now, with time having added its own layers of history, the arboretum holds a kind of timeless charm—one that draws us back, again and again.

Rest

 On the seventh day, the Lord rested................and so did we.

No room-No help

I had planned to take Joan to the Cat Cafe for their delicious cheesecake. I found a parking place close to the passageway that leads there, put Joan in the wheelchair and slowly pushed her there. There is one step at the entrance that didn't present a problem for me. However, there are 5 steps to go down that did. One employee came over and asked if she could help and I gratefully accepted.

Once down on the main floor, I went to the counter to place our order for cheesecake and coffee. It was then I was told that there were no laces available for seating because someone had rented all of them for some special occasion.  We had no choice but to leave and go to Sowas.

So, we were sitting in Sowas this afternoon and a woman came in pushing a stroller. Inside I expected to see a small child. I didn't. Instead, there was a little dog sitting there like he owned the stroller. It just seemed so strange to me. Then I looked for the name on the stroller and again I was surprised to see, TurboPet. Some company actually makes strollers for pets.....and people buy them. WOW!

Meanwhile:German weapons.

 The German news outlet Spiegel, citing a presentation given by the deputy military attaché of Berlin’s embassy in Kyiv reported that he had given an unvarnished assessment of the performance of German weapons in combat in Ukraine.

The attaché’s words, based on feedback received from Ukrainian troops, have proved to be sober reading for both Germany’s military and its arms manufacturers. He described in clear terms what was good, bad and indifferent about the German weapons systems gifted to Kyiv.

 Summarizing its report, Spiegel commented that “Hardly any large German equipment provided to Ukraine was fully suitable for war.” Source-Kyiv Post

Big Event Weekend

Spring edition of the Rozmaty Market in Poznań

Rozmaitości is a handicraft and design fair in Poznań, which brings together creators, designers and brands. All participants are united by a passion for traditional crafts and design. The event attracts both creators and lovers of unique objects.

At the Rozmaitości Market there will be stands with products of native brands. There will be no shortage of vintage stands, which will offer, among others, interior accessories, furniture or second-hand clothes. In addition, visitors will be able to choose from a wide range of handicrafts from ceramics, to jewelry, clothing, illustrations, books, natural cosmetics, home accessories, accessories for children and for animals. 

The Rozmaitości Fair is an ideal space for artists who can present their unique works. And for visitors it is an ideal opportunity to view, buy and appreciate the products offered. The organizers promote a conscious approach to shopping, where quality counts, not quantity. An additional advantage will be direct contact with the creators.

The next edition of the Rozmabitity Market in Poznań will take place on April 12-13 at Concordia Design. 76 exhibitors will take part in the spring edition. Source-Glos Wielkopolska

Movie, laptop & Ukraine.

This blog wasn't meant to be a political blog. Therefore, I am trying to limit my comments to my Bluesky (@2Smiley.bsky,social), The other 98% and Democrats, Republicans, and Independents websites.

Joan had a good day with Gabriela. Together, they watched the 4-hour version of Dances with Wolves. It was the Director's Cut which meant the parts cut out of the original 3-hour version were put back in. Joan and I have watched both versions before and agree the parts edited out should have been in the original release to theaters. They were probably cut out to shorten the movie to 3-hours.

I used my time to look at some Dell computers with Windows 11 operating System. The one I have now uses Windows 10 and cannot be upgraded. When I was done, I met with my friend, Michal, at his office and we talked for about an hour.

Meanwhile:

 Ukraine received a €1 billion ($1.08 billion) disbursement from the European Union under the G7-backed Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) initiative, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced following a meeting in Brussels with European Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis on Wednesday, April 9.

The payment will be directed toward covering “priority state budget expenditures,” the press release said.  

It is the third payment to Ukraine through the ERA, financed by interest income from frozen Russian sovereign assets. The assets were frozen following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine still aims to get the principal €210 billion ($227 billion) in immobilized Russian central bank assets.

Lost one.

It's a bit disheartening, you know? I noticed another Cousin unfollowed the blog. She was really only interested in our daily life here in Poland. My posts about the political climate back in the States and the ongoing tragedy in Ukraine just didn't hold her attention, it seems. Honestly, it feels a little strange to only focus on what Joan and I are up to when the country we came from feels like it's being dismantled by the Republican party – or as some call them now, the "Trumplicans."

Anyway, Gabriela came over today for a lovely three-hour visit with Joan, which meant it was my turn to tackle the weekly shopping. For some reason, Tuesday completely slipped my mind! I didn't get around to writing a menu or a shopping list until this morning, and to top it off, I didn't even wake up until 10:00 AM!

Luckily, the shopping list was pretty short. We still had those leftover pizzas, some frozen sweet potato soup, and that zucchini soup from last week. That's why the bill was surprisingly low, just 160 PLN (about $41). Considering our usual weekly grocery run is closer to 200 PLN these days, that felt like a small victory. Plus, it only took me about half an hour, so that was a bonus.

When I got back, Joan and Gabriela were just finishing up "Somewhere in Time," one of Joan's absolute favorite movies. I had an hour left on my break, so I used that time to work on getting our American tax forms filled out using the H&R Block online program. We've been using it for years now, and it's usually pretty straightforward. Joan and Gabriela spent that hour just chatting away. It really warms my heart to see Joan have that female companionship and someone to share her thoughts with.

600 million protesters?

Who can say what the actual number of Americans were protesting yesterday against Trump and his oligarchy administration. I have read as high as 600 million but who really knows. I thought there would be more. I don't think it was only Democrats involved this time.

Nevertheless, it was heartening to see protest in many parts of the country, not just in the big cities.  When Trump's tariffs take full effect on common people. I suspect there will be more. 

In Marquette, Michigan, close to where Joan and I used to live, 3,000 people attended the protest. In a town where only 21,000 live, that is 30% of the population. That might be a higher percentage than some of the big cities. It made me especially happy to see our friend, Mary O'Donnell participating. She protested EVERYTHING.

Now we will see what effect this protest will have on the government. I will keep an optimistic point of view.

Meanwhile:

Resistance in America - Resistance in Ukraine    

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, a crowd of close to 1,000 people gathered on Route 9 near the corner of Mechanic Street in Cape May Courthouse. They held flags and signs. The flags were American and, perhaps surprisingly, Ukrainian. The signs read “Dump Trump,” “Dump [Congressman] Van Drew,” “We will defend Democracy,” “No Tyranny,” “Save Medicare and Social Security,” and even “Give me liberty or give me death.”

I mingled in the crowd, urging them on with a bit of a cynical exhortation, “It’s about time!” and spoke to two of the protesters who displayed Ukrainian flags. I simply asked whether they were Ukrainian. In both cases they said “no” but added “we love Ukraine,” “Ukrainians are protecting us and the whole world from tyranny.” I was obviously very proud and acknowledged my Ukrainian background. They showered me with accolades about the courage of the Ukrainian people and how the entire world owes them a debt of gratitude.Souce Askold S. Losynskyj-KyivPost

 American volunteer soldiers fighting in Ukraine say that they feel “betrayed” by their own country after the U.S. halted military aid and stopped sharing intelligence with Kyiv in early March.

“(U.S. President Donald Trump) betrayed every one of us,” a U.S. Army veteran, who goes by the callsign Goldfish, told the Kyiv Independent.

The American soldiers who spoke to the Kyiv Independent said they were “horrified” by their country’s recent decisions and the ensuing consequences on the ground in Ukraine.

 

“Never have I ever thought that I would be listening to any U.S. public figure — let alone the president — openly declare support for an aggressor,” Goldfish, a 33-year-old Alaskan.said.

“If we stand here now on the side of the oppressor, literally telling Ukraine, either submit or cease to exist, that's not peace – that’s subjugation.”  Source-Kyiv Independent

 

P'rotests

 Reuters

 Anti-Trump protesters gather in Washington, other US cities

Thousands of protesters gathered in Washington, D.C, under gloomy skies and light rain. Organizers told Reuters that more than 20,000 people were expected to attend the rally at the National Mall.

CNN

 Nearly 600,000 people have signed up to attend the events, some which will also take place in other countries, according to Indivisible, one of the organizations leading the movement in collaboration with a nationwide coalition that includes civil rights organizations, veterans, women’s rights groups, labor unions and LGBTQ+ advocates.  

France24

Hundreds gather across Europe to protest against Trump and Musk

Hundreds of people gathered in Paris, Berlin, London, Lisbon and several other European citieson Saturday to protest against US President Donald Trump and his adviser Elon Musk. The demonstrations follow a tumultuous week for global financial markets after Trump unveiled sweeping tariffs.

 

The Guardian

• 3h ago
  Anti-Trump protests spread across European cities
• 4h ago
  Photos show nationwide anti-Trump protests from Delaware to California
• 4h ago
  Protesters gather in London as part of anti-Trump rallies
• 5h ago
  Maxwell Frost: 'Insidious rise of authoritarianism fueled by corrupt billionaires'
• 5h ago
  Jamie Raskin: 'We invite all Americans to...join the party in democracy and freedom'
• 5h ago
  Protestors from across the country join Washington DC rally
   

Make a Stand!

On this day, We stand with our fellow Americans

 against the tyranny of President Donald J. Trump and his Republican administration!!

On this Protest day, we obviously couldn't be there but we still participated. I made a large sign and put it on our apartment balcony. We had to DO SOMETHING.

 

Citizens. Show up for America!

 Tomorrow is the DAY, April 5th.

Hats OFF! & Ukraine

Yes, hats off to the people of Wisconsin and Susan Crawford who defeated the candidate of billionaire ELON MUSK for a seat on the Wisconsin State Supreme Court. Musk spent 25 million dollars to defeat her....and LOST.

The recent Wisconsin Supreme Court election, which saw Judge-elect Susan Crawford emerge victorious against a candidate heavily backed by Elon Musk, represents a significant moment that reverberates far beyond the state's borders. It's a narrative that speaks to the enduring power of grassroots movements, the limits of concentrated financial influence in democratic processes, and the crucial role of judicial independence.

Susan Crawford's victory is, in essence, a testament to the power of citizen engagement. It highlights the ability of ordinary people, working together, to counter the weight of substantial financial backing. It’s a powerful reminder that elections are not merely financial contests, but ultimately a reflection of the will of the people. The victory can be seen as a reaffirmation of the fundamental principle that every vote counts, regardless of the disparity in campaign budgets.

Meanwhile: Ukraine 

Pete Hegseth, US Defense Secretary, will not attend the next top-level Ukraine support planning conference next week, a move that will leave the main Western nation forum for coordinating military and security support to Ukraine without the Pentagon’s director in attendance for the very first time, the US-based Defense News magazine reported Thursday.

“There is broad political support for a defense initiative of €40 billion. Of course, right now the discussion is in the details,” European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, said in comments reported by Brussels media. “Everybody understood around the table that we should really show our resolve right now and support Ukraine so that they can defend themselves.”

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense plans to deliver 15,000 robotic systems to the battlefield in 2025, a significant increase from the previous year, a top defense official said Monday, March 31.

One of the key systems being deployed is the domestically developed “Lyut” ground robotic complex. Tested in combat and approved for military use, the robot is designed for surveillance and fire support. It is equipped with a 7.62mm machine gun and sensors that allow it to detect and engage targets in both day and night conditions.

History Made!

History was made last night on the floor of the U.S. Congress. New Jersey Democratic Senator, Cory Booker, used the filibuster to speak for 25 hours and 4 minutes to break the record of Democratic Senator Strom Thurmond. 

On August 28, 1957, Strom Thurmond, a Democratic Senator from South Carolina, began a filibuster intended to prevent the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1957. The filibuster—an extended speech designed to stall legislation—began at 8:54 p.m. and lasted until 9:12 p.m. the following day, a duration of 24 hours and 18 minutes. This made the filibuster the longest single-person filibuster in United States Senate history. It was also the longest single-person Senate speech until April 2, 2025, when the record was broken by Cory Booker, with Booker speaking for 25 hours and 4 minutes. His speech was to tell the American people the harm being done to America by President Trump and his administration. He also did not want the longest speech in the history of the Congress to be a speech full of racism.

 "I could break this record of the man who tried to stop the rights upon which I stand,” Booker said shortly before breaking the record. “I'm not here, though, because of his speech; I'm here despite his speech. I'm here because as powerful as he was, the people were more powerful.”

Senator Cory Booker demonstrated unwavering persistence throughout his 25-hour speech, standing firm in his fight against policies he believed would harm marginalized communities. With no breaks, he passionately defended healthcare, voting rights and justice reform, using historical references and personal stories to keep the Senate and the nation engaged in urgent dialogue.

 His historic speech has reinvigorated Democrats, reminding them of the power of persistence in the fight for healthcare, voting rights and justice. The 25-hour stand showcased his deep commitment to protecting fundamental rights and ensuring every voice is heard. Many see this moment as a turning point—proof that passionate leadership can inspire action and renew momentum.

 Booker’s speech was not just a moment of defiance but a rallying call for progress and lasting change.

"I was challenged by my own constituents to do something different, challenged by my own constituents to do something, challenged by my own constituents to take risks,” Booker said."

Will you accept the challenge? 

 

3 hour break.

 On a good weather day with a three hour break, I went to visit my friend Pawel. He and his wife moved to a new osiedle(neighborhood) two months ago and this was my first opportunity to visit.

I arrived about 11:15 and Pawel came down to meet me at the entrance door.  His flat is on the first floor so we didn't have to travel far to reach it

Inside, he showed me around the new flat and then we settled in the living room to talk. We basically just brought each other up and what as happened to us in the last two months.

Of course, because he is an excellent programmer, I brought my laptop so he could fix two problems I have and it didn't take him long to do it.