My Wednesdays are pretty whacked now that I’ve agreed to help out my former team in the dart league. Arrows fly at 2:00 p.m. My Wednesday Walkers group hike normally finishes up around noon. So, that doesn’t leave much room for anything in-between but a quick shower before making my way out to Baloy Beach for the dart match. Yep, no after-hike beers, no nap, and no time for my daily post here at LTG. Hence, this abbreviated attempt to fill that space before I head out this morning.
Speaking of darts, I finished third in last night’s tournament at Alley Cats. I played about the way I usually do; what’s changed is how some of my opponents are playing–they’ve gotten a lot better. I’m guessing that’s because they play much more frequently than I do, but people I used to dominate are beating me pretty often these days. Oh well, it’s just for fun anyway. Or so I keep telling myself.
Went to Mango’s after darts and ordered the grilled pork chops. Got them for takeout though and enjoyed them at home.
Oh, in the comments to one of my Facebook posts two folks went at it over a grammatical issue I hadn’t heard of before–apparently not using apostrophes is a thing now. Here’s their exchange:
Wally: *you're Jeremy: the use of an apostrophe isnt a grammar mistake, and it's an accepted omission from contractions nowadays. Thus, it isnt incorrect even though auto-correct programs will try to mark it as such. Wally: As for it being acceptable grammar to omit apostrophes, take it from an Englishman, it isn't. And before you make the 'American English' argument, remember that those who invented the language don't accept the concept. There is English and there are mistakes. If, of course, you honestly believe that the apostrophe is redundant, then you have been misinformed and I would take this opportunity to remind you of your opening remarks regarding the misinformed. Jeremy: As for your argument concerning the English being the originators of the English language, should I make you aware of the fact that there is such a concept as the evolution of it, or do you not recognize that youre not speaking Old English or even Middle English anymore? Youre speaking Modern English. As such, there is a difference between the British English, American English, and a number of other minor dialects. Thus, if you want to remain true to the stereotype of the pompous Englishman by "not accepting mistakes", then by all means, go ahead, but just remember, that youre the one making the mistakes right now.
I didn’t participate in the argument and I will continue to use apostrophes in the manner I was taught. Commas, however, are another matter.
I was surprised to have a delivery guy at my front gate yesterday. Figured it was something for the upstairs neighbor. But then he said my name. I told him I didn’t order anything, but upon closer inspection of the package, I saw it was from the US Embassy.
What else? Well, I got a haircut yesterday.
The trail may have grown cold in my quest for love. That’s okay. Better safe than sorry.
Maybe my long day today will provide some fodder for a worthwhile post tomorrow. Don’t get your hopes up!
I’ve never heard the “It’s okay to leave out apostrophes” rule before. Sounds lazy and idiotic. Evolution, my ass.
I vote yes for the apostrophe. I think it makes one look educated when writing anything where the writer is trying to be taken
seriously, such as articles for publication, university, business, official email, etc. Therefore, I will continue to use the apostrophe until it is removed from the keyboard.
I didn’t know new passport needs stamps to be transfered from the old one..I thought, just attach ur old passport by stapling it to the new one
Kev, somehow I knew which side of this issue would fall on. I did smile when the English chap was defending the grammatical integrity of the language they invented as I recalled what you told me about the lack of commas in the UK.
Chip, I’m with you on apostrophe use, it’s just the way I was taught and it looks strange when someone leaves them out. I mean, if someone were arguing that it is okay informally to not use them, like on social media or messages, I could maybe be more accepting. But to say English has “evolved” and they aren’t required is a no-go for me.
BW, I’ve been told by several expats that a “transfer” is required but I’ve never really asked at the immigration office. I’ll get the “official” guidance before taking the next step. Thanks.