Booze Meme

It's Friday night and all thoughts turn to partying. But, I will probably "party" at home. I stole this fun meme from another blogger and cannot take credit for any of the questions, just the answers!

1. Beer, wine, liquor, mixed drinks – rank them

Beer > Wine > mixed drinks > liquor

2. How often do you drink?

Not often enough.

3. Favorite scotch?

A ship called Cutty Sark

4. Favorite whiskey?

Jack Daniels is the man of the hour

5. Favorite tequila?

Jose

6. Gin?

Rummy?

7. Vodka?

Gray Goose

8. Rum?

Never touch the stuff

9. Red or white?

Red, sweet, and the more the better

10. Best wine ever?

Oliver Red

11. Favorite type of wine?

Red, screw-off cap or cork, cold and sweet!

12. Favorite every day red?

Oliver, again

13. Favorite every day white?

Angioletta Muscato

14. Best value white?

Gallo – really!!

15. Do drink boxed wine?

Some are not bad at all!

16. Fastest to getting drunk?

32 Oz. Margarita on empty stomach

17.Are you quiet, silly, or what when you are tipsy?

My mouth runs “like a duck’s ass”. (Direct quote from my late wife.)

18. Every do anything your regretted while drunk?

OMG! Please don’t go there!

19. Favorite beer?

Killian’s Red or Coors Light

20. Favorite food while drinking?

Chocolate (milk only) with beer and cheese with wine

21. Favorite cordial?

Crème de menthe

22. Favorite ‘desert drink’?

I am a beer man with anything!

23. Favorite morning libation?

I need coffee rather than more “hair of the dog.”

24. Favorite bar?

Main View

25. How old when you had your first booze?

We always had it available at home, so I probably at least tasted something when I was young. Officially, 18, 3.2 beer in Ohio on Friday nights.

26. “Not for me”

Any cocktail with coconut – blech!

27.Do you own a cocktail shaker?

Yes, pink plastic, but have one of those nifty “bullet” mixers. Fantastic gift!

28. Martinis – gin or vodka?

Vodka, with whiff of vermouth and a proper olive and onion – no rubbish

29. Ever been in a bar fight?

Nope! Usually try to keep it down to a dull roar to avoid that kind of thing

and

30. An amusing vignette involving booze:

Many memorable moments but I will mention the one with six of us out driving around quiet country roads, drinking beer, stopped in a dark, out-of-the-way cemetery to take a much needed leak, all of us out of the car, watering the grass, and the sheriff’s deputy pulls in with flood light shining and reds flashing. Quite embarrassing for a bunch of half tight, teenage boys! Just a stern lecture, escort home to the driver’s house. No ticket or further repercussions.

Thought -Filled Thursday

Many websites, blogs, and home pages have a "thought for the day" so I have come up with Thought-Filled Thursday. Each Thursday, I plan on posting a thought of some nature. It might be mine originally, or a quote by someone else, famous or not.

Today's thought:

"You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves." (M. Oliver)

If more of us believed this, how happy we would be.

Thoughts of Peace,
JE

Grammatically Incorrect

It bugs the heck out of me to be caught either speaking or writing grammatically incorrectly. I must use the right tense of verb, and I must never end a sentence with a preposition. I have to spell correctly and use correct punctuation. I am obsessive about this.
When I write an e mail to someone, even my friends, I spend a lot of time using the "backspace" key to either correct my spelling, or typographical errors. I correct even the tiniest mistakes. Why do you suppose I do this?
Could it be from teaching proper grammar and correct usage of the English language for so many years? Could it be that my mom was a teacher and insisted that my brother and I write and speak correctly, or is it just being OCD?
It also irritates (read bugs the heck) me to read a novel, that I paid good money for, that contains misspelled words or grammar errors. Where are the editors that novelists pay megabucks?
I also get a little peeved at receiving e mails that have typos and grammar errors in them. I think it shows that people who know better are just in too big of a hurry these days. They really do care, they just don't take or have the time to correct.
Okay, now there you have it. One of my LITTLE idiosyncrasies. But don't stop writing to me just because of my little hangup. I'll get over it!

Peace,
JE

Elasticism

What is with elastic these days. Almost daily for the last week, every pair of boxers that I put on after my shower has lost the elasticity in the waist band. What is happening? Of course! It's because I started using a laundry booster, or changed fabric softeners. Or maybe it's just because most of said undies probably are older than some of you readers out there. Any way, it's annoying , not to mention that it's going to be expensive to replace those favorite boxers that have bit the dust.
Does this sound like a personal problem? Well, I suppose it does. They sure don't make underwear like they used to. (Now maybe it's even better.) Guess I'll be finding out soon.
Peace,
JE

Time Out!!!

I am taking a time out from reading. Why? I have so many crafty projects going at the same time that I want to finish. I cannot craft and read at the same time. Darn!! So, for a while, I will only be reading after I go to bed in the evening. (Now if I could just figure out how to get really comfy in my bed to read. There's always something that is "not quite right" about it.)
Secondly, I have been to the library often as of late, but I just cannot find that much good stuff to read. The last trip I brought home 5 books, and couldn't make it past the first chapter in 2, read 2 and didn't get to the other one before it would be overdue. The very last one on my blog was recommended by my friendly librarian, who knows me well enough to automatically put my name on some novels that she thinks I would like, but are on the "waiting" list.
Prof assures me that authors usually come out with new stuff in the fall and early winter, so maybe I will find something better to read then. I put my name on "Heaven is For Real," the other day, and there are 11 people ahead of me, and our small library only bought 1 copy, so it will be a while.
So, crafting I will go. I have a baby blanket in he works, and the baby is due in 4 weeks or less, so it would be nice to get it done. I have 2 prayer shawls that I am working on, plus two "bag books" to finish. I always make my own Christmas cards, and so far I only have 1 done. So, as you can see, I have lots to do besides read.

Peace,
JE

"Pot" Luck

Tonight Prof had to work and Kiddo was home with me. I decided I needed more than a sandwich for supper, so I cooked boneless pork chops, potato quarters and green beans in the same skillet. When Prof and Little Bro were young and at home, this was their favorite meal.
Well, Kiddo came to the kitchen and filled his plate. He ate a generous portion of all, which is what I wanted to see. I don't think the kid had eaten all day. After he was done, while taking his plate and utensils to the sink, he thanked me for the meal. Then he said that he usually didn't care much for pork chops, but mine were really good cooked that way. He said that his step mom used to fix them and she never seasoned anything, so they were bland. If he dared to salt or pepper anything, he got yelled at for insulting her cooking. What!!!! Who does that???
He also added that her roasts were "crap" but that his mom made a fantastic roast. He said that she added stuff like bay leaves, salt, wine and other goodies to make her roasts good.
So I guess you could say that Prof's pot roast, and my "all-in-one-pot" pork chops brought us luck!
I think I'm going to miss these "Kiddo Moments" when he goes to college.

Peace,
JE

What I Read #55

One Summer by David Baldacci: Beautifully written, Baldacci tells the story of Jack Armstrong and his family. Jack is struck down in the prime of his life with a strange disease, of which there is no cure. He is only hoping to hang on until after Christmas. The tragedy of the utmost strikes. Jack's wife is killed in an automobile accident on Christmas Eve.
One Summer is the story of Jack, his children and a miracle witnessed by all. Along with them, is Jack's best friend and mentor, Sammy Duvall. Going back to Jack's late wife's home in South Carolina is a journey into dealing with grief and healing for everyone.
This story, which is a real change from the type of novels David Baldacci usually writes, touched my heart. I could feel Jack's pain as he had to deal with his grief. I too have had to deal with the same type of grief. I could also relate to Jack being blamed for his wife's death by her mother. I too had to deal with a bitter, spiteful mother-in-law after my wife's death.
Healing is hard. Jack handled it like another human. Some days better than others.
This is a wonderful story. Maybe not for everyone, but it certainly touched me.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #54

Nickel-Plated Soul by Ronald Tierney: Deets Shanahan is a 70 yr. old Private Eye living and working in Indianapolis. Hugh Dart, his client just got out of prison where he spent 30 years for murdering his wife. Hugh doesn't think she's dead, 'cause he didn't kill her. He wants Deets to find her.
This was a fun read for me. Obviously one reason is because Deets is close to my age, and I can sympathize with his aches and pains, especially in the morning. Secondly, Deets lives and works in Indianapolis, and since I am in Indiana, I know where things are that are mentioned in he book.
Author Tierney is originally from Indiana so he knows the area and what he describes is "real."
A fast paced novel, Nickel-Plated Soul will have you smiling, and frowning, as you enjoy every page.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #53

The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs: This book was recommended to me by my daughter. What a delightful change from the murder and mayhem that I usually read. I thought "chick lit" when I heard the title, but this was "way" beyond that.
Georgia Walker is a single mom, who owns her own business, a yarn shop called "Walker and Daughter." Her customers are a quirky lot, who love to knit and even some who don't like to knit, but like to hang out in Georgia's shop.
This is a story of those people, the friendships that evolve, and grow. It is about life, about a group of women who get together on Friday evenings to nosh, and knit. It is a beautiful story of love and kindness.
Though this was straying from my usual genre, I am glad I took the time to read it. Thanks, Prof, for your recommendation.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #52

Live Wire by Harlan Coben: This book was a disappointment. Myron Bolitar never has been one of my favorite characters, but since Coben has been one of my favorite authors, I read this series. At least up until now.
This was a "cookie cutter" story. I felt like I had read it before. Same characters, different time and situation. The "rubber stamp" dialogue was familiar and I could guess what was going to happen next.
Coben's "stand alone" novels are great, but from now on, if the book cover mentions that this is another in the "Myron Bolitar" series, I'm afraid it will stay on the library shelf.
I notice that Coben is coming out with a new book for young adult readers called, "Shelter." I am anxious to read this. Even though I am retired from teaching young adults, I still like to know what they are reading. It will be interesting to see how this author tells a story to young people.

Happy Reading,
JE

Restless

Today is one of those days when I feel restless. No where to go, no money to do anything fun, and can't sit still. I've been reading in the recliner, changed to the screened in porch, then to the back yard. Not comfortable anywhere I light.
The house is a mess. Stuff all over the place, and I wonder sometimes how Prof and Kiddo get up and down the stairs with all of their junk piled on the steps. My piano area is piled full of Prof's books, shoes, and a variety of other trappings of her life.
The kitchen table is covered with scrapbooking stuff (not mine) and there is no place to set down a plate without moving a bunch of stuff.
Besides that, I am tired of dieting and have a really bad case of the munchies. And to top off this feeling of restlessness, Kiddo's games and music are driving me nuts. The longer he plays them, the louder they get. I know I am sharing my home willingly, so I can't complain about everything, even though to him it probably seem like it right now.
It's too hot (about 90+) out side and I don't feel like walking or biking in that. Gas is too expensive to waste it just wandering around. Maybe, I just need to go to my room, close the door, and sleep this one off. Maybe when I get up, I will feel human, or a reasonable facsimile thereof.

Peace,
JE

I Just Hate It When...

the person in line ahead of me at Walmart has to have a price check

I have an itch and can't reach it

that little “gas light” in my car comes on and I'm miles from a station

the phone rings and I'm on the other side of the room in my recliner

people look at me like, “are you nuts?”

my kids ask for advice, then ignore what I said

cars are outnumbered on the Interstate by semis

my 18 yr. old grandson slam dunks his mom

I get continuous muzak on someone's cell phone

I have to wait at the Dr.'s office..(they charge me if I cancel on short notice)

people send me e mails that say if I don't send it on, something bad will happen

I have to put off getting something until I get my retirement and social security checks

This list could go on forever; these are just some of the things that are really bugging me right now! I guess I am just grouchy this morning. Thanks for letting me rant!

They Do Grow Up

Fellow blogger Tom McMillen-Oakley had this ( or this part) of a quote on his blog today:"God made kids cute so we don’t leave them on the curb when they are bad."

This is so true! He has two little ones and they just got back from a week's vacation.

Ah! I remember those days. Thank goodness we had "Mom's Bomb" (9 passenger Pontiac Safari Station Wagon.) Prof rode in middle facing front. Lil Bro rode in rear facing back (usually with the dog). Otherwise they would have been left curbside at least once!

"Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end." But they did!

Peace (at last)
JE

Weight Loss Tracker

In case you haven't noticed, I haven't changed my WLT lately. Why? BECAUSE I CAN'T SEEM TO LOSE ANY MORE WEIGHT! I have really worked at this, exercised, wrote down every morsel I put into my mouth, not gone over my point count. What the heck am I doing wrong? I will keep on keeping on, but this is frustrating.

Stuck at -8 lbs,
Jimmieearl aka JE

These "Possums" aren't playing "Possum."

The other day I went out to tend my compost maker. I have a 55 gallon plastic drum that I pile composting material in, add some water when I think about it, stir it once or twice a week (if I remember) and voila! Compost which is rich and grows stuff well. But I digress!
When I started to stir said compost, there laid an opossum on top of it. It was still alive!!! It didn't move much, but sorta hissed and bared its teeth at me. I thought about beating it to death since it was almost dead anyway, but that goes against my nature. So, I tipped the barrel over on its side and it came tumbling out and staggered away and thru my chain link fence to parts unknown. End of "possum sighting #1.
Day before yesterday, I was getting in my car, in the garage, and I smelled something dead. I went on my way, but when I got home, and pulled into the garage, the smell hit me again. So, I began to investigate. I found a dead possum in a trash can. Not the same possum either. This one was bigger. I dumped the trash can into another plastic bag, and disposed of the critter in the dumpster. BUT, the big question is, how did this varmint get into my steel walled garage, and then how did it get into a 40 gallon trash can? All I can think of is that it ran in there when the door was open for access while mowing the lawn. To get into the trash can, the rodent had to climb upon a bunch of precariously stacked boxes of Prof's stuff, then "dumpster dive" into the garbage can. Boy, I bet it was disappointed when it got in there and couldn't get out. This is a trash can I only use for "car trash" and contained only two cups from Starbucks, and an empty McDonald's bag. Not worth dying for, certainly.
But die it did. Stink it did. Where are these vermin coming from and how do I get rid of them? They have to be one of God's ugliest creatures. And I really don't want them around!!

Peace,
JE

Facebook: Friend or Foe

I can't decide if I like "Facebooking" or not. It starts out fun, then you get someone on there that thinks their opinion is the only right one, and they start pissing people off.
Such was this morning. I reposted (at the request of another) the Pledge of Allegiance. Then asked for people to repost in support of not taking the word "God" out of the pledge, and not removing the Pledge from schools. Well, I heard from several people who "liked" my post, and even from a veteran who said he "fought for the right to say 'one nation, under God.'" I didn't do this to piss people off. Then, a former friend (can a friend be former and still be a friend) whom I haven't seen for over 20 years, but who sent me a friend request, got all crappy about which "god" was I referring to, and we need a republican "god" and so on. Now I am steamed! Can I unfriend this guy? He has always been a "die-hard" liberal, but this was going too far in my opinion. And it is MY Facebook page. And Facebook is supposed to be for fun. This ceased to be fun when a war of words broke out. Now I am faced with either letting it go on and on, or "unfriending" this liberal jackass. What I have done was enter a comment for said jackass to "give it up. This is one argument you won't win on Facebook." Knowing him, this won't be enough. I am wishing now that I had never said anything about the Pledge in the first place. I also understand Jackass's right to say what he feels, and my right to say what I feel. This is not fun anymore.

Peace (on Facebook soon)
JE

The "Rut" Most Taken

I am finding, with retirement, that I seem to be falling into a rut. It's not a long fall, either. I think it sometimes can be a pleasant rut, too. I get up, eat the same thing for breakfast that I ate yesterday, go for my walk (added recently) then come home, jump into the shower, dress, pour my coffee, and head for the computer. I scan my e mails received over night, answer any that need to be responded to, relegate most to my spam file, and delete the rest. Then I check my blog roll to see if any of my "blog buddies" have posted. If so, I read them, and comment accordingly. Moving onto the "favorites" icon, I scan the local funeral home's web site to make sure I haven't missed the passing of someone I know. (Morbid? A little. Necessary? Yes.)
Now, it is time to refill my coffee cup, grab either my latest "in progress" novel, or handwork and head to my recliner. Sometimes, I listen to music, or I listen to whatever "music" my 18 year old grandson has blaring from the "attic."
On specified days (not necessarily the same ones each week) I do laundry, and clean. And cut the grass and weed the flower beds (if it's not to hot.) With Prof and Kiddo living with me, I don't have to empty the dishwasher (Kiddo's job) or load it (Prof's job) or take out the trash(again Kiddo's job) or cook much (alternate with Prof), so this makes my rut really comfortable.
Most days this rut is okay with me. Others, not so okay. I have been asked by other retirees if I want to volunteer at different places. So far, I just smile and say, "no thanks." I worked for 50+ years, and I just want to take it easy, go for my walk in my comfortable rut, and enjoy life without being caught up in the hustle-bustle of a world that is moving much too rapidly for me to keep up with.
Am I getting older? You bet, but as I age, I want to take time to STOP and smell the roses, (that just happen to be growing beside my "rut.")

Peace,
JE

God's Gifts

I was reading a devotional earlier this morning. It was about our gifts from God. It got me to thinking about my gifts He has given me.
Singing has always been my thing. I have sung in groups, and solo for as long as I can remember. My first solo was at a Christmas Eve service when I was 6. I sang, of all things, "Bring a Torch, Janette Isabella" in front of the entire congregation. I still remember the tune, just not all the words. That was 60 years ago, and I am still singing. What a glorious gift God has given me.

But, and there always seems to be a "but," my hearing is beginning to fail, so thus, I am singing less. It gets harder and harder to hear the accompaniment, and the voices around me in choir, and when I solo, I feel like I need to be standing on top of the piano.

In light of this happening, my artistic juices seem to be getting a boost. I find myself learning a new craft, or returning to an old one with more vigor. It seems like I have a better eye for color, and a talent for handwork that I never had before. Is God working another of His mysterious ways with me? I think so.

I am enjoying gardening more. I still don't like to mow and weed, but I do enjoy working out in the flowers, and tending my water feature. I am enjoying just being out in God's world more than I have in the past.

I have often heard that "when life closes a door, God opens a window." These changes in my life have made me believe it even more. I still want to sing, but now it is not so important. I know that God is watching out for me and giving me other things to do and think about.

Peace,
JE

Happy 4th of July everyone!

Just that...Happy 4th of July. Celebrate how every you wish. Just remember that without the forethought of our founding fathers, we wouldn't have the freedoms we have now. No where else in the world, do people have the freedoms we possess.
Right now I am concerned that we are slowly, but surely, losing those freedoms. What can we do about it, you may ask. We can stand up and let our voices be heard. We can vote! If there is a representative, senator, or even a local politico that you don't approve of, vote against him/her in the next election. Even at the presidential level, we have the power to vote that person holding the office out in the next election.
So, America, take charge, rally peacefully when needed, but do rally, and get out there and take charge of our country. It is our country, you know. Don't let a few dictate to the many! It's our time. We need to take advantage of it!

Peace,
JE

A Bumper Sticker

I saw this bumper sticker the other day on the back of a semi:

ABORTION?
What part of "Thou Shalt Not Kill" don't
you understand?

I'm just sayin"...

JE

What I Read #51

The Millionaires by Brad Meltzer: This fast paced novel by bestselling author Meltzer really rocks. Someone is embezzling large amounts of funds from a private bank. Oliver and his brother Charlie, both employees of the bank, are caught up in the corruption. When the Secret Service gets involved, things really start happening. Just who is guilty and who isn't.
This is 481 pages of fast action taking the reader from NYC to Orlando; right into the underground heart of Disney World.
If you haven't read this Meltzer work, you will not want to miss it. You also won't want to put it down until the last sentence.

Happy Reading,
JE

THIS IS ME...RIGHT THIS MINUTE..... NO DOUBT TOMORROW I'LL BE SOMEBODY ELSE!

Note: I stole this from my blog friend Mellodee, over at "Mellodee's Musings." She is a person with whom I have a lot in common and would like to meet for coffee (or tea) some time and just chat away the hours:

I AM... Sleepy! Or maybe Grumpy, possibly even Bashful, but I'm definitely NOT DOPEY!

I WANT... a good med/well steak, I’ve had a craving lately.

I HAVE... always had a hard time making friends. It's one of my biggest regrets.

I WISH I COULD... spend some time in Nova Scotia by the ocean. I have never been, but want to go.

I HATE... Hypocrites and liars!!

I DON’T REMEMBER...many good things about my High School years.

I LOVE... my family and friends.

I DANCE... by myself in my living room when no one is there.

I SING... all the time! Like no one can hear me.

I NEVER...have been farther than Mexico (Tijuana) and Canada (Niagara Falls).

I RARELY... dislike solitude, but I hate being lonely.

I CRY WHEN I WATCH...movies with bittersweet endings

I AM NOT ALWAYS... the person I wish I was!

I HATE THAT … My mate passed years before her time.

I’M CONFUSED ABOUT … all things technical!

I NEED … to get involved in some activity that would get me out of the house more.

I SHOULD … get back in the habit of attending church regularly. I have shied away since the loss of our pastor.

I DON'T ... believe how fast the days and weeks and years go by!

What I Read #50

Hot Mahogany by Stuart Wood: Another Stone Barrington novel. This time Stone is invloved with antique American furniture worth millions. Lance Cabot's brother, Barton is a dealer in this antique furniture. A piece worth several million seems to be missing. Stone is trying to find it. Along with his cop buddy Dino, Stone travels to upstate Connecticut not only to spy on the people he thinks are involved in the theft, but to shack up with other men's wives.
This novel is typical Woods. Fast paced, and humorous, it's a quick and entertaining read.

Happy Reading,
JE

Weird Phone Call

I just got a strange, and somewhat comical phone call. Someone called in regards to my son's ex wife. Now, bear in mind, he was married to this witch for about 5 months way back in 1999. Big mistake, and one that he PAID dearly for. Who ever this caller was, wanted information about this woman, quoting many last names, indicating that she has been married numerous times since being my brief daughter-in-law.
My response amused the caller. I said that she was no relative of ours. That she was married to my son very briefly way back in 1999. A hard lesson, but he learned it! I went on to say that if this guy found her, just take her out and shoot her. He would be doing the whole world a favor. And, if she owed him money, good luck! He might as well kiss it goodbye 'cause he would never see it. Oh, and "if you find her, just eliminate her, please!"
He was dumbstruck, but I am betting that he doesn't call back here again.
It's too weird when ghosts from the past rear their UGLY heads. Her's was one UGLY one I would just rather not be reminded of.

Lookin' for some Peace,
JE

What I Read #49

Spider Web by Earlene Fowler: Another great novel in the Benni Harper series. There is a sniper loose in San Celina, causing chaos and confusion. Benni's husband Gabe Ortiz, police chief of San Celina, and his officers are having no luck finding any clues to who is doing the shooting. But the shootings seemed to be targeted towards law enforcement officers.
All of this, combined with the arrival of a mysterious person from Gabe's past, makes for an interesting read. Every one of Fowler's novels that I read seems to get better. They bring back thoughts of a happier time when my late wife was living. Earlene Fowler was her favorite author and Benni her favorite character. She got me hooked on them, and now I anxiously await each new one.
I donated my wife's Fowler novels (she collected them all) to a small, nearby library. It looks like I will have to add this one to their collection.

Happy Reading,
JE

Summer Solstice

Today is the beginning of summer. It is said to be the longest day of the year. This brings on some feelings of wonder to this writer. Now the days will star getting shorter, light will not last as long, and before long, whether we want it or not, fall will be upon us.
Do not despair! There is still plenty of sunshine and heat out there. I just got back from my walk a few minutes ago. I'm glad I got up and got going early, because today promises to be a scorcher. Highs in the mid 90's with thunderstorms expected off and on later. Looking ahead, it is supposed to cool down later in the week. This is good for me, but my brother and sister-in-law are coming for a week, and they just aren't used to cool in the summertime. The last time they were here, it got down in the 50's at night, and they went around closing windows
and doors. When I make up their bed, I will have to remember to add an extra blanket for them.
As I grow older, it seems like the days pass so fast. I can remember as a kid, being raised on a lake, that Big Bro and I spent lazy days lolling in the sunshine and water. Swimsuits went on upon arising and we lived in them until bedtime. Days lasted forever. Now, they speed by. Time itself hasn't changed, but my internal clock sure has. Now, as I watch my little grands grow, and look at Kiddo, who is off to college in just a few short weeks, I marvel at how rapidly time has
flown.
Can we slow it down? No, all we can do is enjoy each day and all that it has to offer. Live, laugh, and love. That's really the three most important verbs to live by at any age.

Peace,
JE

37 Things About JE. (Not My Real Name.)

1. I descend from Irish/German. Both family lines have been in North America at least since 1843.

2. I am the youngest of two boys. I am the shortest in height, and look the oldest, which probably pleases my older brother.

3. Both parents are gone now; when they were alive they were fantastic parents,who really loved each other.

4. I collect nothing anymore. To much dusting. My late wife and I collected Nativity Scenes. Now all but a couple remain in boxes in the garage.

5. I like music related art work.

6. Milk makes me ill. But I can eat ice cream; go figure.

7. Coffee is my drink of choice. No latte or mocha, just coffee, fresh ground, please.

8. I try to walk every day. And watch my diet very closely.

9. I enjoy Opera. My favorite opera is “La Boheme”.

10. My favorite composer is Bach.

11. I am a certified Paraprofessional in Special Education .

12. I have gone through many heartaches and have survived..

13. After 66 years of living in the Midwest, I still live in the Midwest: Indiana.

14. I take medicine for high blood pressure and high cholesterol/triglycerides.

15. I have smoked tobacco and marijuana (once.). I quit smoking in 2000.

16. I hope I never stop learning and growing.

17. My fears – snakes, wind, dying alone.

18. I love to read. I would choose a book over most activities most of the time.

19. Things I haven’t ever done (so far) – , been arrested,( even for a traffic violation,) bungee jumped, or had a passport.

20. I love to garden; not the mowing or weeding, but planting things and watching them grow is fascinating.

21. Some of my favorite things – thunderstorms, a back rub, Netflix, Margaritas, and other things which would make this blog "not safe for work." Beside that, my kids read this!

22. I continue to operate on the advice of "Make a joyful unto the Lord."

23. I never heard of blogs until 2006. Now I am ‘quite into it’ and enjoy the opportunity to write and ‘meet others’ through their writing.

24. I have your basic "Procrastination" wiring. It drives those around me "nuts" but they adjust.

25. I am Protestant, Methodist.

26. I am ambidextrous, but write right handed. Eat left.

27. I have a small hump at the base of my neck.

28. I can’t operate the X Box 360 or Play Station that my grandson hooks up to my TV.

29. I taught English at a 2 year college for a while.

30. I am aggravated by ignorance, rude people, and drivers using cell-phones.

31. I make crocheted stuff, my own greeting cards,and I have even made a few quilts.

32. I tend to ramble if I talk too much.

33. I speak some Spanish; I do English well; my choice of subjects to teach.

34. I don't like hot and spicy foods; I love Ice Cream!

35. My favorite mustard is Dijon.

36. I think it would be fun to meet people with whom I blog, and my pen pal in New Zealand.

37. I want to see Nova Scotia before I die.

What I Read #48

Bleachers by John Grisham: For 34 years Eddie Rake coached football in Messina. Now Coach Rake is dying of cancer. In his last days, word went out, and former players began returning to Messina to hold a vigil.
This is the story of that vigil, and the memorial service that took place after Coach passed away. It is a bittersweet story of several men who, as teenagers, played for Rake. They gather in the stands of Rake Field, drink beer, and reminisce. Some have become successes, some have not, but they all have the glory days of high school football in common. This is the time to share that commonality.
I was moved by this book. It brought back memories of my high school time in a very small community. The game of choice there was basketball, instead of football, but the feelings of the community were the same. For several years, we had a losing team, then Coach Piper came on the scene. He succeeded where other coaches failed. This novel reminded me of those days where our Tigers, my brother included, brought home trophy after trophy.
A feel-good read, this is a short book. Very unlike you expect from Grisham, but in the same flavor as his Playing for Pizza.

Happy Reading,
JE

Quote That Touched My Very Soul Today!

I read this this morning and it's been on my mind all day today. When I think about it, it really touches me right where I live!


"There comes a time in your life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Forget the bad, and focus on the good. Love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living."

Walking away is never easy, forgetting is even harder.

Peace,
JE

Common Sense and More!

Mellodee, a fellow blogger over at "Mellodee's Musings" wrote an entry about a runner/jogger in her Austin, TX neighborhood that was hit by a car and killed. It was determined by the Austin police that the jogger was trying to cross against the light at a busy intersection and got hit by a car. Anyone familiar with heavy city traffic knows that this is a "no-no."
It seems that whenever something like this happens, the driver of the vehicle is to blame. Well, since I have begun walking, I can say that this is not true at all. I have seen pedestrians try to beat a light, a train, and vehicles. Bicyclers don't obey the laws of the road, and joggers press their luck by jogging in the street, during the busiest times of day, and seem to think everyone should watch out for them.
Mellodee thinks, and I agree wholeheartedly with her, that the following rules should be posted in every town, newspaper, blog, internet service, etc. They might just save some lives. (But only if the city officials enforce them.)

1. Follow all applicable traffic and pedestrian laws.
2. NEVER attempt to "beat" traffic or a stop light.
3. Do not assume that you have the right-of way at all times!
4. PAY ATTENTION!! Don't get lost in "the zone", always pay attention to automobiles, motorcycles, bikes, pedestrians, and your surroundings in populated areas.
5. Use common sense and do not expect others to watch out for you! Your safety? Your responsibility!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #47

Perfect Peace by Daniel O. Black: When Emma Jean Peace gives birth to her seventh son, she is determined to fool the whole community by raising that son as the daughter she always wanted. Never giving it a thought to how it will affect the child's life, she showers "Perfect" with everything she hasn't given her sons. Even love.
When "Perfect" discovers "she" is a "he" it not only shatters Emma Jean's dream, and life, it becomes the talk of the small, black community of Swamp Creek. Why did Emma Jean do this? Has she lost her mind?
Despite criticism and cruelty within his own family and the community, Perfect, now Paul, rises above it all as he grows up. But will he ever find perfect peace?
In this novel, Daniel Black has opened up rural, black Southern lives, baring them raw. The uneducated, yet hard working people of the mid-twentieth century were a complex breed, and Black has shown us just how complex.
I was captivated by this work. The further I read, the more I wanted too. Black is a dynamic voice for the plight of his people. This poignant story lets us know just how dynamic he is!

*Note: All images of this book cover must be copyrighted. I couldn't download one. Sorry!

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #46

Playing The Game by Barbara Taylor Bradford: I know what you're thinking...more "chick lit." (Excuse me ladies, that is not political correct, but you get the idea). Well, let me tell you, folks, this was a very good read, and interesting to boot.
Annette Remmington is the owner of her own art dealership. She deals in "high-end" art that only the very rich can afford. One of her clients inherits an estate filled with art. He calls in Annette to appraise the paintings and sculpture. And she finds an obscure Rembrandt worth millions.
But that's not all she finds. But, my friends, you gotta read on to find out just what and who she finds.
The art dealt with in this novel is real, even though the characters, time, place, etc. are fiction. I learned a lot about art and what makes it either of value or worthless. Put this one on your summer reading list.

Happy Reading
JE

Fractured Friday Stuff!

On Wednesday I told you readers that I bought a French coffee press and I love it. My sister-in-law told me last evening that some guru in the Dallas area said that using a French press releases some enzyme in the coffee that raises ones bad cholesterol. Darn, as if I didn't have enough of a fight with that stuff (the cholesterol, not the coffee), now I gotta worry about using the French press. Well, I decided "to heck with that," we all have to go sometime, right? And I still like my French press and I'm gonna use it. The only thing I don't care for, is the dregs in the bottom of the cup, but I just dump them out when I get down that far.

Peace,
JE

Random Wednesday Stuff

I have risen early every day since(and including) Sunday. I feel better physically and mentally from not laying in bed forever.

Yard work is progressing, slowly but surely, though it would go faster if it wasn't so d**** hot and humid out there.

Prof and her beau are splitzville. I feel sorry for her going through this crap once again.

Only 73 more days until Kiddo leaves for college. It will be a glad/sad day around here.

My two little grands are growing up so fast! The Divine Miss K is almost 3 already, and RJ turned 1 last week. He looks so much like his daddy.

I started Weight Watchers today. My points allowed aren't unlivable once I get used to weighing and measuring everything.

I liked it better when my Best Friend, Curley, didn't work so many days a week. It limits our yakking time.

I haven't heard from fellow blogger, Mellodee, in over a week. Maybe the Southern heat has gotten to her. Where are you Mel?

My schedule of events for the next few months includes too many dr. appointments. Heart, ear, eyes, teeth, prostate, annual physical, blood work. Ugh! This getting old is not for sissies, and it's d*** expensive. (But, alas, better than the alternative.)

I begin exercising in earnest today. Walking will be my exercise of choice.

I still get to drink as much black coffee as I want.

I am not going to talk my diet to death, just will keep you up on the latest losses. (That's the whole point, anyway, and I intend to exercise bragging rights.)

Prof wants a new job. I keep praying every day that one is on the horizon for her. Not because I want her gone from here, I just want her happy. She's been sad long enough.

There's too much drama in life.

I bought a French coffee press and I love it. Now I want a bigger one. Mine is only 1 cup!


Well, coffee is brewed and waiting. I need it!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #45

The Brave by Nicholas Evans: The story of Tommy Bedford, a young boy from a dysfunctional British family. Tommy hides is discomfort with his family by watching American westerns on TV. Fearing that they will be snubbed my their peers, Tommy's parents send him off to boarding school at age 8. Here, he is bullied, yet learns to fight back.
When his sister, an accomplished British stage actress is offered a part in an American movie, Tommy is "hijacked" and goes to Hollywood with her. This is a move that changes his life forever.

This novel by the author of The Smoke Jumper and The Horse Whisperer is certainly different from his other books. I found the story hard to follow at times because it kept jumping from when Tommy was a child, to when he was an adult. The only way to tell when the time frame changed was when his name went from Tommy to Tom or vise-versa.

Though I enjoyed The Brave, I didn't think it compared to some of Evan's earlier works.

Happy Reading,
JE

What I did Today or "I Am Pooped"

Today I decided to work outside. I went to the stores and bought geraniums, spikes, salvia, impatens and mulch. I laid down the black vinyl sheeting that goes under mulch. Then I put down mulch. I planted my salvia in pots and in the ground, and I planted the impatens in a pot with a spike. The I planted my porch boxes with geraniums and spikes. I got out the new birdbath that I brought home from Texas. I put together the new water feature, and set around the other pieces of yard art. I weeded, fed, weeded, and weeded some more.
This evening, I am sore. I am so out of shape from being a slug all winter and spring and not doing much but crafting and reading. But, I am proud of what I did, and how it looks. Of course, it is a work in progress and needs more mulch and a lot of TLC. This was just on the east side of the house. I haven't begun to work on the front, or west side, and the back always just gets a "lick and a promise." But I want to make it pretty, too. It's mostly shaded, so I can find plenty to do all day long out there.
Got to go take some more Tylenol.

Peace,
JE

What I Read #44

Mourning Gloria by Susan Wittig Albert: Another China Bayles mystery. The town of Pecan Springs is in a turmoil over a arson-homicide. China is in the throes of helping Sheriff Blackie solve the ugly crime.
Join China and the gang as they go about operating their businesses in downtown Pecan Springs. Be aware that China's husband, McQuaid, is out of town, giving China even more freedom to spring into action as her own personal investigator.
Discussed in this novel are many plants as usual, only you will find that some of the most innocent plants that even you may have growing, have psychoactive properties. These discussions make this an even more entertaining read.
Whittig-Albert has again brought the reader to the fictitious Texas town of Pecan Springs, and makes it and the people living so believable that you want to visit.

Happy Reading,
JE

Cars

Since early on, I have been a car affectionado. The very first car I remember from my childhood is a 1951 Chevrolet Bel Air Deluxe. It was dark blue with a white top. It was a two-door coupe. Dad always liked nice cars, and was financially able to trade every 2 years. I remember a 1957 Oldsmobile Super 88. Charcoal gray with gobs of chrome. All of our cars sported white sidewall tires, too. We had a 1959 Ford Galaxie, too. Dad was on his way into work one morning and the local vet ran a stop sign and T-Boned the Galaxie. Insurance insisted on having it fixed, but it was never right after that, and besides Dad never was a Ford fan. A 1960 Pontiac Ventura replaced the Ford, and we never owned another "Found On Road Dead."
I learned to drive when I was 12. I learned in Mom's 1958 Chevrolet. I was allowed to drive, with Mom on the country roads around where we lived. If I was really nice, and played my cards right, I could usually talk Mom into letting me chauffeur her to Grandpa B's, taking the "back way" which was all country roads, and was about 20 miles.
When I legally began driving, I bought my first car. A 1954 Plymouth Savoy. Boy, I thought I was living. It was a two door, and a standard shift. It only had one thing wrong with it; when the temperature got below freezing, it wouldn't start. Well, Dad drove it to work one day for some reason or another, and when he came out of the office, it was colder, and the Plymouth wouldn't start. He insisted that I trade it off the next day, and helped me do it. I moved up to a 1957 Chevrolet. Every guy's dream car. Wish I still had it. Wow! Black with a white top.
Other cars I owned while in my bachelor years were a Volkswagon Beetle, a 1963 Nova, and a 1966 Chevy Impala Super Sport. Ah! Those were the days.
Car shopping now a days is not nearly as much fun. For one thing, have you ever suffered from sticker shock. I remember paying $3600 for my "66 SS. Brand New!
Another thing, all the cars look pretty much the same. What ever happened to being able to tell not only what kind of car, but exactly what body style it was? Now I can't tell a Chevy from a Toyota or a Nissan or Honda. They all look alike!!! Aren't car makers interested in class and style anymore. Where is their imagination and ingenuity?
I long for the day of Tail fins and chrome. Real steel and metal, not so much plastic. There was something to say for the old "boats" of years gone by. They had class, they had style, they were comfortable to ride in. Yes, they used gas much faster and were not eco-friendly, but we have lost something that was near and dear to my heart.

Peace,
JE

I Am Home, Retired and Tired...

I had a simply grand vacation. It was relaxing. Absolutely NO stress involved. My Bro and SIL were the ultimate hosts. They fed me well, and let me sleep until I was ready to get up in the mornings. They took me to see neat stuff and we visited some really nice eateries.
Now I am home and am still recovering from "jet lag." That is, if you can get jet lag from a flight of only 1 hour and 40 minutes and only crossing one time zone. That's my excuse and I am sticking to it.
Truthfully, I have turned into a slug. It is so much easier to stay home in my comfort zone, and recliner than it is to go away. And, I have been caught up in the whirlwind of activity centered around Kiddo's graduation ever since I hit the door. Now that that stuff is all history, I am planning on setting some new goals for myself.
I need to get up earlier. This is bugging me probably the most. When I don't hit the kitchen until about 10 AM, I feel like I have wasted half the day.
I need to regulate my eating habits. This is going to happen. Those of you who read my daughter's blog know that we are starting Weight Watchers. I only hope it works for me. I have some serious tonnage to lose.
I need to get more exercise. I sit and read or do my crafting so much right now that I feel like I am becoming attached to a chair (or recliner). I have "silver sneakers" option with my health coverage and have been invited to go with friends to the Y for water aerobics. I just have to get up the nerve to don a bathing suit, looking like a beached and bleached whale, and go for it. I like to walk and could use a walking partner at our local walking trail. Maybe if I went sometime, I might meet some single female walking who would like to have a walking partner.
I need to get off Prozac. I talked to my friendly family Dr. and he said it was time, but only if I felt confident to do so. I have to do the alternating day on day off, then two days off and so on until I am off of it. It is scary to me to do this because it has been my safety net since my wife's death. What if I am a babbling idiot without it? I hope my family and friends understand if I don't do well for a while. Or if, heaven forbid, I can't cope and have to stay on it for a longer time. I am willing to give it a try anyhow, and see how it goes.
If I can accomplish these things, life will be great. Not that it isn't great now, but I think I will be happier with myself. That is the most important thing in life...to be able to like yourself!

Peace,
JE

What I Read #43

Cold As Ice by Anne Stuart: Her job was supposed to be an easy one. All attorney Genevieve Spenser had to do was deliver some legal documents to Harry Van Dorn and get his signature. Soon she discovers that this is no easy task as her life is put on the line.
Will she give her life to Dorn's evil cause, and become collateral damage, or will she survive?
Stuart does a fine job of holding the reader's interest until the climax of this novel. She is a "master of creating chilling atmosphere with a modern touch/" (Library Journal)
For a quick read on a rainy afternoon, pick this one up!

Happy Reading,
JE

What I Read #42

Tick Tock by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge: Another Mike Bennett thriller. Patterson cannot write Mike Bennett novels fast enough to suit me.
Detective Mike is on vacation with his family of 10, plus his grandfather Seamus, and the nanny MC. He is called back to work to hunt down a killer within the city of NYC.
It seems that this killer is copying murders that were committed years ago by notorious criminals.
This is an extremely good read, and will have you anchored to your chair until you get it finished.

Happy Reading,
Je

Hotmail Hell!

While I was on vacation, Prof used my computer to access her Hotmail account while her laptop was charging, or something. According to her, this only happened once or twice, but now, for some reason, she is locked in as a user on my computer and I cannot access my Hotmail account. Every time I try to go on my account, it comes up with her user name and says that someone was using my computer to send out spam mail or some such nonsense. I tried to log on with my laptop and got the same message. Also, when I go to blogger, via my shortcut on my screen, it comes up "cannot access" because of the darn Hotmail snafu.
AND, to make matters worse, there is no 800 number to access Microsoft for this problem, and if you follow their instructions on line, it just sends you in a circle and you keep getting the same error messages and stuff. ARRRRGGGGG!
I hate Microsoft! Either they are a bunch of idiots in tech clothing, or they assume that we are all idiots!

I am so pissed!

JE

PS: This hinders all comments that some courteous blog reader might wish to make from reaching me. So, desist commenting until Prof and I figure this out. I will let you know when it's safe to resume. Thanks!