Welcome to an extra edition of the mailbag where you will find some of the comments, questions and ideas sent recently by readers of this newsletter or our publications. They are edited for space and clarity.
“Shane, You made my week with today's commentary on manual transmissions (The stick shift, March 9, 2026). I learned to drive in my dad's Buick at 14. Two years later, when my sister was ready to learn, Mom taught her on our family VW. I got to learn five on the floor, as well. My sister learned easier because that is all she knew; I had to rewire my brain. Forty-four years later, I still can hear my mother's strong German accent, ‘Clutch. Clutch! Clutch!’ as I kept killing the engine. I miss my old five speeds. With kids grown and gone, my next car should be a manual. Time to play early Van Halen and feel young and cool again while grinding some gears.” - Ben
Where have all the good times gone? - Shane
“My first car manual driving experience was in a 1950 Plymouth rusted through the floor on the driver side so mud and water was often experienced on my left posterior (The stick shift, March 9, 2026). I learned to drive in a hay field and that car also had no shocks. Learning to drive a stick was very helpful when about midnight one year I picked up a rental car in Seattle. It was the only rental car available and was located at the far back of the unlit lot. Yes, it was a stick! Learning to first drive on a tractor was instrumental in my driving a stick shift and farm life taught be not to be surprised by anything — including a manual transmission in a rental car.” - Judy
Oh, the things you can learn in a hay field. - Shane
“Hi, Shane. I just read your column about catch phrases and while I can't think of any quickly off the top of my head, I have been saying all of the ones you referenced around my office today, to the annoyance of my coworkers (TV catch phrases, March 10, 2026). LOL! Keep up the great work!” - Kim
Keep those co-workers on their toes. - Shane
“The country has lost its sense of humor (Prank phone calls, Monday, March 16, 2026). The national pastime is now being offended. Just look at our late night TV shows for evidence.” - Brad
I lost interest in late night TV shows years ago. And, I can’t stay up that late anymore. - Shane
“Hi, Shane. Great column (Luck, Tuesday, March 17, 2026)! I wasn't wise enough to pay attention to the Stoics when I was 19, but at 78, I do. I think the quote highlights an important Stoic principle: We cannot control when a door will open; we have absolute control over whether we are ready to walk through it. There are probably many stories from your experience as a business owner that apply here. Happy St. Pat's Day!” - Roger
That’s another great one! Thanks, Roger. - Shane
Have a thoughtful Thursday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.thedailyumbrella.com
Read more of Shane Goodman's columns here. | 
