It would seem that gone are: It would seem that gone are the days of an honest day's work. It was almost impossible to get ahead that way and now it's getting impossible to simply get by.
It was a reference to a Rush: It was a reference to a Rush song from 1981. I suppose there are still a few pre-baby boomers out there that might be too old for the reference.
Everyone loves the occasional: Everyone loves the occasional hookie. We we come from, it can be called a sickie, a bit more complex -taking sicking leave days. Some bosses ask for a doctor's certificate. lol. Anything, really, to make a long weekend. Thanks for sharing. /Rik.
Amazing how a tapestry of: Amazing how a tapestry of serendipity comes together when you take a step back and just pay attention. An interesting compilation of parallel events. Happy birthday!