Darkness, Darkness

"Worst year ever," proclaimed one headline. "We're losing more than we know," read another. How would you describe 2020? I've asked the team of correspondents here at the GonzoPR blog to describe what they've missed in the last 12 months, and what they thought was good about 2020.

JM: "Let's query our intrepid reporters around the globe: Helmut Vallindaklopf based in his Connecticut Avenue basement bungalow in Washington, D.C., followed by his sister Ramona Vallindaklopf based iin Genoa, Italy and finally, Wolfgang Majoris based iin Bangkok, Thailand. Helmut?"

HV: "Thanks, JM. What have I missed? I definitely long to head back out into the wilderness instead of remaining cooped up in this dingy basement apartment covering the escapades of Herr Gropenfuhrer as he has lied and pillaged as the erstwhile president."

HV: "What was good? Seeing voters turn out in record numbers to assure that he will not remain at the helm of America in the most critical time of dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and restoring order amidst the chaos he has wrought. Over to you, Ramona."

RV: "Thanks, Helmut. What have I missed? In a word: travel. Don't get me wrong, I love Genoa, but we've be under lockdown for nearly a year, and I long to travel to Switzerland and many other destinations. What was good? Realizing how much we have and how little we need. Wolf?"

WM: "What have I missed over the past year? Mostly, seeing my family, other than on Zoom or reasonable facsimile. What was good? When the dust settles, we'll realize how much we have, how little we need and the true value of human connection. How about you, JM?"

JM: "I think the human connection is what I miss the most. Despite everything, we did not give up, and a virus for the pandemic has been developed. We've found new levels of resiliency and resolve, and the future looks bright as we leave the Year of the Pig for the Year of the Ox.

Bobi The Bulldog

The family lost beloved Boba Fett, an English bulldog and valued member of the tribe, after complications at the Oregon State University Veterinary School to remove a cancerous mass in his chest. A faithful companion to our wee one, Bobi was coming up on his eighth birthday in March, 2021.

Boba was a sweetheart around people, though an occasional errant dog could ignite his wrath. As implied by the name of the breed, bulldogs can be stubborn and ferocious, but most are friendly and capable of forming strong bonds with children and other animals.

However, when a particular dog would strike a pose or look at him sideways, Boba could be relentless. One particular incident comes to mind: as an Irish wolfhound walked by the house one day, Boba bulled open the storm door and took the dog down while the owners stood helpless and horrified.

After interceding to break up the fight, all was well with all concerned. Boba Fett was a reliable companion to family and friends, and he was little brother to Moxie the Golden Retriever. Boba Fett was loved and adored by all who came into contact with him. We will fondly remember him always.