Daylilies - August 2008

Word of the Day

Lamien - A person purported to be evil and frightening, but who is simply lame.

On this last day of August, I was holding off on blogging until I had something new and interesting to blog about. However, other than cleaning my kitchen this morning, nothing is happening here. It's a windy day. The weekenders are still making their presence known...but not as much as yesterday when I headed down to the dock because it sounded like I had people partying on my shore....and I wasn't invited. Such was not the case, at least, not that I know of but there were two pontoon boats, a speed boat, and a couple of jet-skis REALLY close to the shore. I had to tighten the moorings of my own boat due to all the wake produced from all the fun-seekers.

In the news? The Republican National Convention scheduled to start next week sounds like it's going to be muted due to what looks what could be a disaster heading straight for the gulf coast. With a hurricane (Gustav) bearing down on New Orleans, the Republicans don't want to create a comparison between themselves partying in Minnesota and Nero fiddling while Rome burns. However, I must say, that I felt the cackles of glee and comments about God favoring the Democrats by some in the Obama-Biden camp in regard to Gustav and the RNC were ill-advised and showed a certain lack of caring for those who are in the process of evacuating their homes.

Murphyism of the Day

The Student's Tautology

The teacher is never absent on the day of the exam.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

In times like these, it helps to recall that there have always been times like these.

- Paul Harvey

Squirrel Problems at The Lake

Word of the Day

Lactomangulation - 1. Manhandling the "open here" spout on a milk container so badly that one has to resort to the "illegal" side of the container. 2. When one accidentally forces open the wrong side of a milk container not realizing the fact.

I made a batch of stew for Gypsy. This morning when I fed Gypsy, I noted that I only had five more days worth of her stew. Time to make up another batch. This latest batch should last for 36 days, so I may not have to make any more stew here at The Lake this season. I tried giving Gypsy the store bought Beneful stews but...she doesn't like them. I'm thinking of slipping a bit of it into my homemade stew....just to get rid of it. Waste not, want not. And...maybe...this will make my own homemade stew last a bit longer so I won't have to frantically make up another batch when HTP and I get back to Arizona.

Two of my hummingbird feeders were empty this morning. Actually, they were empty for a couple of days now but I've been too busy to make up some more nectar. Besides, there were two more feeders with nectar. It's not like I'm starving the little pigs. I filled the two empty feeders and noted that one of the other ones is getting low. It'll probably be empty by the end of the day. I've gone through lots of sugar this year and it's mainly for the hummingbirds. Though, my sister and my wine-making activities do use quite a bit too.

Although Gypsy is just starting to watch for squirrels, the persistence of the squirrels getting into my seed feeders have required the purchase of LOTS of bird seed this summer. Even though I have solved the raccoon problem that I've had on previous summers by bringing the feeders in each night, I think I've gone through over 80 pounds of bird seed already and I've got one more month to go. I don't really mind the squirrels, except that they've been gnawing on the plastic seed feeder. I suppose I'll have to replace it with a metal feeder next summer.

HTP has talked about fitting Gypsy with a bark collar. I really don't mind her barking...if she's got a good reason for barking. Unfortunately, she races off to bark when then pump kicks in, or when a fan squeaks, or when my canning lids ping, or when someone across the lake sets of fireworks, or, or, or.....We've been correcting her but now that she's found her voice, the least sound will trigger a race to the door and a barking fit. I'm not sure that a bark collar is the answer but I do have one back in Arizona that we could try if things get too much out of hand. In the meantime, HTP and I have been diligently correcting whenever Gypsy barks at anything she really doesn't need to bark at. Maybe she'll finally get the idea and since she only started doing this in July, I figure she may get the idea by the end of September? I hope?

Murphyism of the Day

Prescher's Law of Exams

If you don't know the answer, someone will ask the question.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

The end result of kindness is that it draws people to you.

- Anita Roddick

My First Lady Tomatoes - August 2008

Word of the Day

Kukucok - 1. A rooster that has gone berserk, and goes around pecking at everything.
2. To go crazy.

I woke up to dense fog outside this morning. You couldn't see further than the end of our dock. I could smell the faint smell of campfires. Oh...wait a minute. That's my hair. My hair has retained a distinct smokey smell from yesterday morning's activities. Oh well...at least it doesn't smell like smoked fish. I was hoping that the smell would fade but it isn't a totally unpleasant odor.

I picked tomatoes this morning. It looks like I need to can some of them. I was hoping that I could buy a couple of bushels of tomatoes for canning but I may just have to make do with what I've got. Note to self - My First Lady tomatoes did VERY well despite the blight. Very productive! Next year I stick to First Lady tomato plants. Or...if I can find them....Legend.

I also picked my cucumbers but I'm still seeing blossoms. I think they may be done for the year. I've got enough to make a few jars of dill pickles with some leftover for a couple of green salads for HTP and me. I also picked a couple more zucchini. As for my kennel garden. The peas have finally finished. My beans are almost done...just producing enough for the occasional meal. The tomato plants are dead. I might as well clear them out of the garden. Only the zucchini still seems to be actively growing out there. The eggplant never did anything at all. Nor the cucumbers. My Earthboxes produced just about everything this year. Eggplant, cucumbers, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers. Which reminds me, I should go out and pick more peppers.

Oh...and the raspberries. I need to pick raspberries. I'll wait until the dew dries but it looks like the fog has lifted and we've got a clear blue sky.

Murphyism of the Day

Valery's Law

History is the science of what never happens twice.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

- George Santayana

My Fishing Frog Lamp - August 2008

Word of the Day

Koolio - Cool; expressing happiness or joy.

We smoked the fish in the morning. I got to Sis' place in time to see fifty bluegills, with tails aloft, drying on sheets of newspaper on Sis' countertop. It was a truly bizarre sight to see. No...I didn't take any pictures but I think Sis might have a couple. Maybe she'll share. At around 8 AM, we loaded up the smoker and then our only task was to sip on coffee while we watched and regulated the air-flow and added more apple wood. Bluegills don't take all that long to smoke so....by 12 PM, we were all done. Kitchen clean. And then....

The Tale of The Three Sisters Marathon Shopping Trip

We took Sillie (that's my brother Willie's wife)out for a marathon shopping trip. First, we had to pick up a few things here at my house but then it was non-stop shopping. Sis and I stopped to pick up our mail in town because we were there but then we shopped at Don's Outlet Store, Just Rite on Main, and then across the street to the thrift/antique/pawn shop. That's all the frolics in town. We didn't stop at The Porch but....I think Sillie will want to stop there with Willie in the next few days. Next? We had lunch at BWR in Dobie. Best Wisconsin Restaurant. Well...that's the name. The food was good. Sis and I had prime rib sandwiches served aux jus. We all shared french fries, onion rings and sweet fries. Yummy! Oh...and beer. And conversation....just us girls.

After lunch? Onto a big city. Sis and I stopped at the Wine Shop to pick up three boxes of bottles which we'll need for bottling our wine at the end of September. Then...Sis wanted some bananas at the KwikTrip...right next door. Sis and I decided that Sillie really needed to see a store called The Great Outdoors which has all kinds of unique Wisconsin touristy type stuff. I bought a mug and resisted buying everything else in the store...which was difficult.

Ooops! We should have hung a left after leaving the KwikTrip because Bargain Bill's was just down the road from there. Oh well... Then....Bargain Bill's where there are LOTS of bargains. I bought all kinds of things but got off cheap...only spending $34. No...I did not buy any frogs at Bargain Bill's...however I did buy some dog toys. I couldn't resist. Gypsy loves the giant yellow plush star with the grinning face. Last I saw she was dragging it around the living room. However, that's another tale.

Back to shopping. After Bargain Bill's, we toodled on down the highway to Walmart. Just a quick stop there. But then we had to do some grocery shopping. That was our last stop before heading home. We dropped Sillie off first and helped her carry her purchases into their cabin...and made sure that Willie wasn't too upset. Our marathon shopping session did last over seven hours, afterall. Then, I dropped Sis off at her house and helped her carry her purchases into her house. I didn't see Sis' hubby but I don't think he was too upset by our delay in getting home. Then...finally....home again, home again jiggidy jig. It took me a while to unload while tripping all over Gypsy but I really didn't buy all that much. I'll unpack all my new frogs and find homes for them tomorrow. That fishing frog lamp was the very last one that they had at Just Rite on Main and will look just perfect next to the motorcycle frog lamp that I got in New York. They match! You never know what you'll find at Just Rite on Main.

And so ends the tale of The Three Sisters Marathon Shopping Trip. I know that we could have stopped to shop at more places in town and in the city but we'll have to hold those places in reserve for our next Three Sisters Marathon Shopping Trip....next year? Should we make this an annual event?

Sis just called to tell me that she has the mustard powder that I bought at Don's Outlet Store.

Murphyism of the Day

Coleman's Commentary on Santayana

Those who fail to learn from the past are condemned to repeat history class.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

To achieve great things we must live as though we were never going to die.

- Marquis de Vauvenargues

Willie Washes the Fish - 2007 (He did such a good job last year that he got to do it this year too.)

Word of the Day

Kookookachoo - A phrase used to express happiness, or when an event happens that seems completely random, and one desires to be obnoxious, they may find it is fun to yell out this interjection.

We caught 50 fish when we were out in the boat with Willie, which is less than what we caught last year when we were out fishing with Willie but.... Anyway, we prepped them for smoking. We? Sis, Willie and me. They are currently sitting in a brine solution in Sis' fridge. Smoking commences tomorrow morning. EARLY! I'm supposed to report to Sis' house at 8 AM on Thursday morning. Tonight? For our family get-together? 5:30 PM...or earlier. I've started my list of things to bring over to Sis' place.

I made the homemade salsa this morning, only, I needed a lime. HTP poo-poo'ed my suggestion that I'd be able to find a lime at our Store in town. Hah! I bought two. I also need some cilantro but Willie assured me that he had some fresh stuff. Blink. He does? Here? I'd be interested in knowing what else Willie thinks is necessary for a week at The Lake with his family. I already know that he brought three onions but there really isn't anything odd about that. But....cilantro? Anyway, my salsa is all ready to go. I just need to chop up some fresh cilantro to add at the last minute.

HTP cooked up the Italian sausage that we bought the other day on our way home from The Big City. He chopped up some of it for me to put in my baked ziti. I baked up the ziti, cooled it on the top of the counter and it's sitting in the fridge right now. I'll top it with some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and bake it again at Sis' place when I get there. Baked ziti always tastes best when the flavors have a chance to meld....so....I guess I should call this Twice-baked Ziti. And...I didn't actually have any ziti so I mixed together some penne and some rotini and some sun-dried tomato flavored shells. You use what you have when it comes to Italian cooking. I was going to make some Italian fried peppers but....forget about it. We'll have plenty of food. We always do.

Murphyism of the Day

Primary Rule of History

History doesn't repeat itself - historians merely repeat each other.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Americans detest all lies except lies spoken in public or printed lies.

- Edgar Watson Howe (1853 - 1937)

Fishing with Willie - Summer 2007

Word of the Day

Knork - A combination knife and fork.

Sis and I hiked the entire length of the logging road and we only managed to pick one quart of blackberries. It looked like something got there before us. Most of the berries that we did pick were to be found off the driveway and near Sis' house. Oh well...it was a nice hike. My knees gave out toward the end but they'll recover.

My brother and his family are spending the week at their cabin. Vacation. Sis and I will be going fishing later this afternoon with our brother (Willie). Hopefully, we can get enough bluegill for smoking. I'm not sure how well the fish are biting right now. I haven't been out fishing since Spring. However, like playing the lottery or gambling in Vegas where you can't win if you don't play, you can't catch fish if you don't bait up and cast your line into the lake.

I picked the raspberries today. Again. Sis found a dessert recipe that calls for raspberry sauce and a garnish of fresh raspberries. We're going to have an Italian dinner on Wednesday night at Sis' house for everyone. I'm planning on making baked ziti with Italian sausage. We'll have a garden salad with fresh tomatoes. The dessert Sis found sounds like a culmination to the meal.

Murphyism of the Day

Darrow's Comment on History

History repeats itself. That's one of the things wrong with history.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

No one has ever had an idea in a dress suit.

- Sir Frederick G. Banting (1891 - 1941)

Old Grey Frog Blazing a Trail Down the Logging Road - August 2008


A Spring Look Down the Logging Road - May 2008



Old Grey Frog Hiking the Logging Road - Picture taken by Willie a few years ago...can't remember the year so it must have been lots of years ago. However, I'll be wearing that same shirt and hat today.


Word of the Day

Knoon - A combination knife and spoon.

"And...I have to take the exhaustion test for the 100 Push-up Challenge. Will I go on to Week Six?" Nope. I only managed 45 push-ups this morning during my exhaustion test. This may be because I woke up with my shoulder hurting or maybe it was the pain in my big toe or maybe it was that I'd only had a couple of sips of coffee and it took quite a while to get that going (I'm really going to have to get into the habit of prepping the pot for brewing the previous night). Regardless, I'll have to repeat Week Five. However, 45 push-ups is only two shy of the required amount to move on. Hopefully, after repeating Week Five, I'll be able to breeze on to Week Six.

We actually had frost warnings here last night. However this morning when I woke up the temperatures were in the mid-40's. I hope we didn't get any frost. I was hoping to have a lot more time before putting my gardens to bed for the winter. I'm not ready! I have one more month here! Alas, it feels darn cold out there this morning. My sweatshirt was hardly warm enough when Gypsy and I took our morning perimeter walk but I stubbornly refused to grab my winter jacket. Brrrrrr!!!!!!

JERRY HARKAVY, Associated Press Writer, wrote this morning about the 2009 Farmer's Almanac and the coming winter:

"Numb's the word," says the 192-year-old publication, which claims an accuracy rate of 80 to 85 percent for its forecasts that are prepared two years in advance.

The almanac's 2009 edition, which goes on sale Tuesday, says at least two-thirds of the country can expect colder-than-average temperatures this winter, with only the Far West and Southeast in line for near-normal readings.

"This is going to be catastrophic for millions of people," said almanac editor Peter Geiger.

The almanac predicts above-normal snowfall for the Great Lakes and Midwest, especially during January and February, and above-normal precipitation for the Southwest in December and for the Southeast in January and February. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions will likely have an unusually wet or snowy February, the almanac said.

All I know is that it feels too darn cold for August at The Lake. However, this should make for perfect berry-picking weather today. Low humidity. Cool temperatures. Can I hope for a light breeze to blow the mosquitoes away? The woodticks are done (knock on wood) for the season. I hope my toe stops hurting. I think I spent too many hours standing on my feet at HTP's class reunion. Even with the comfy shoes that I was wearing, I'm afraid that six hours on my feet was too much. I can hear the snort of laughter from MC Daughter who spends her entire shift on her feet and then maybe adds on a couple of hours of overtime. I'm just not that young anymore and my bunion is only one of the clarions to announce this fact. I'll wear my most comfortable and only pair of hiking boots later today before Sis and my hike and hopefully this will muffle the complaints of my big toe. I've never actually clocked the distance from my house, down the logging road, and then on to my folks' place. Three miles? Doesn't seem all that long but the hike is pretty rough through and over downed brush and trees and high grass and weeks. I keep thinking that it would be nice to develop a nicer hiking trail...or at least clear out the trees each year so we can a 4x4 on it but.... HTP wants Sis and me to take the camera with us on our hike today to photograph any downed trees. Maybe he's "thinking" about doing some clearing?

Murphyism of the Day

Rominger's Rules for Teachers

1. When a student asks for a second time if you have read his book report, he did not read the book.

2. If daily class attendance is mandatory, a scheduled exam will produce increased absenteeism. If attendance is optional, a scheduled exam will produce persons you have never seen before.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

When in doubt, tell the truth.

- Mark Twain (1835 - 1910)

The Raspberry Bushes are Taking Over - August 2008

Word of the Day

Knick-knack - Alternatively, A device whose creation and use was predetermined to be absolutely nothing; a useless contraption whose sole purpose is to annoy the house maid or janitor who cleans around it.

HTP's 40th Class Reunion was as expected. The Italian Family Reunion was lots more fun and the food was better. However, I did get to chat with a fellow vintner. One of HTP's former classmates makes homemade wine and gave away bottles of his product as door prizes. HTP and I won one. The music was nice. Oldies for...well...it was a 40th Class Reunion. The hotel was really nice but we had to pay for parking. Our room overlooked the river. Downtown Big City. I spent the night in a Select Comfort bed. First time. They even provided a face mask and linen spray to enhance the sleeping experience. We didn't use it. The bed? Well...it wasn't bad but I'm not going to run out and purchase one. My own bed is just fine. HTP and I got a free breakfast this morning and decided to hit the road instead of taking in a movie.

Gypsy was happy to see us. We got to see my folks' new carpet. Looks good. I'd say that they can start moving furniture into their new addition any day now. We're happy to be home. The weather couldn't have been more perfect. Highs in the low 70's. I picked and cleaned the beans. I picked and cleaned the lettuce. I didn't pick the raspberries. Maybe tomorrow. I know I've got to prune the raspberry bushes and I just didn't have the energy to take on the task today. Maybe tomorrow...but...

Tomorrow Sis and I have to rack the wine. ALL the wine. Then, we plan to hike the logging trail. And...I have to take the exhaustion test for the 100 Push-up Challenge. Will I go on to Week Six?

Murphyism of the Day

Duggan's Law of Scholarly Research

The most valuable quotation will be the one for which you cannot determine the source.

Corollary

The source for an unattributed quotation will appear in the most hostile review of your work.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Most people are bothered by those passages of Scripture they do not understand, but the passages that bother me are those I do understand.

- Mark Twain (1835 - 1910)

Wildflowers at The Lake - August 2008

Word of the Day

Kneepit - Area of space behind the knee.

HTP and I won't be leaving The Lake until just before noon so...I decided to blog. And...I just completed Week 5 of the 100 Push-up Challenge. However, having said that, on Monday I'll have to take another exhaustion test to see if I can move on to Week 6. I have my doubts. I may have to repeat Week 5. I'm not sure if I can do 47 push-ups without my arms falling off. We'll see. Actually, if you count up all the push-ups that I did today...they total over 100, but I'll continue on because they do tend to wake me up and get me moving more than my daily infusion of coffee. Hopefully, they will also stimulate my metabolism which has slowed down to a near stop.

I fried up half of the Italian peppers that I picked the other day from my Earthbox. There were so many that I could only fit that half into the pan. HTP and I enjoyed them as a side with some venison steaks that I cooked up. Thanks Sis! The steaks wonderful! The Italian peppers were wonderful too but we didn't eat them all. I froze what we didn't eat. I'll have to cook up the other half on Sunday night or Monday. For right now they're fine sitting out on the countertop. There are lots more coming on the plants out in the Earthbox. Zucchini? I wonder if my Mom would like a couple more zucchini. I cooked up a couple last night to go with our supper but I have more coming in the Earthbox and in the kennel garden. Plenty for HTP and me. Besides, I really don't like zucchini pickles. If I want pickles, I'll make another batch of those when I get back from The Big City...from the cucumbers that keep coming in the Earthbox. As for my tomatoes, they're coming ripe rather rapidly. The ones on I had on the counter are ripe. I had to bag them up and put them in the fridge. I don't have time to do anything with them right now.

Murphyism of the Day

Murphy's Rule of the Term Paper

The book or periodical most vital to the completion of your term paper will be missing from the library.

Corollary

If it is available, the most important page will be torn out.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Some people are born on third base and go through life thinking they hit a triple.

- Barry Switzer

The Blackberries Will Have to Wait

Word of the Day

Kneekle - The portion of one's leg extending from the knee to the ankle. It is referred to in this manner if the person displays excess fat which essentially hides the calf area.

I was hoping that we'd get some rain today but although it is depressingly grey outside, the radar isn't showing anything. Unless the sun actually starts shining and drying things up, there isn't much chance of me hiking out on the logging road today. Too wet. Too many mosquitoes. Heat and humidity doesn't mix well with the berry-picking outfit that one needs to wear in order to avoid mosquitoes and the sharp thorns of the berry bushes.

We've had a bear sighting. While HTP and I were enjoying our appetizer and adult beverages last night in front of the television, I saw a black bear tumble/blunder down onto the driveway as it crossed from one side to the other. It was obvious that this black bear wasn't fully grown but it wasn't that small either. However, I've seen fully grown and this one wasn't. Maybe a cub from last year's crop? We didn't see a Mom but it's possible that she was somewhere within calling distance. I'll have to be more careful when I'm walking Gypsy at night. Leash time. No more running off on her own up the driveway, into the dark. This "cub" would have been able to easily take out a large dog and Gypsy is NOT a large dog....though...she can run pretty fast.

HTP and I are heading off to The Big City tomorrow morning. HTP has his 40th class reunion for high school. For some reason, I was thinking that it was his 50th class reunion. It's not. HTP and I are getting a bit grey but we're not all that old. Anyway, chances are that I won't be blogging while we're in The Big City. We'll be spending the night and coming back on Sunday.

Murphyism of the Day

Seit's Law of Higher Education

The one course you must take to graduate will not be offered during your last semester.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

A good listener is a good talker with a sore throat.

- Katharine Whitehorn

HTP and Me




Happy


Birthday


HTP!



I'll blog more later....maybe.


OK. It's later. I made a full breakfast for HTP. Eggs, bacon, hashbrowns and toast. His favorite breakfast. The addition of blueberry pancakes would have made it even better but...... Then, this afternoon, HTP and I went into the city for some shopping. We bought HTP some new dress pants and a few shirts. After that, I picked up some really nice steaks for supper tonight. We're having corn on the cob, grilled ribeye steaks, baked potatoes with sour cream and butter, and a garden salad. Oh...and a layered taco dip and chips and adult beverages for an appeteaser. Something to tease the appetite. HTP wouldn't let me buy him a card or anything else for his birthday so The Diet Gestapo taking a break today. I even got HTP a very special cheesecake for dessert. Yummmm!!!!!!

A Hazy Day at The Lake - August 2008

Word of the Day

Kneebow - The elbow of one's leg.

Although it isn't raining and the radar doesn't show any clouds...we've got clouds and haze today. I think...maybe...the sun will finally break through the haze in another hour or so. It's just this sort of growing condition that blighted my tomatoes. This has not been a good summer for tomato growers. Some growers had to replant after a late frost. Some growers are complaining that the plants just aren't producing enough fruit. And some...blight. The farmer where I usually purchase my canning tomatoes didn't have any luck this year. I've got a call into another farmer but....we'll see. I may have to purchase my canned tomatoes from the store this year. *wince*

I started on Week 5 of the 100 Push-up Challenge...yesterday. Day 1 was a killer. I barely finished that last 30 push-ups. Day 2 and 3 don't look too bad but there's very little rest time between levels and instead of 5 levels...there are 8 levels. However, like The Little Engine that Could, I think I can, I think I can.

I was going to hike the logging road today to check on the blackberries but HTP needed to drive into the city to talk to some zoning people. HTP doesn't like me to hike out into the woods when he's not around...even with a cell phone. I'm not sure what he expects will happen but I guess I'm willing to humor him. Besides, I don't like to leave Gypsy here all alone so the blackberries will have to wait until tomorrow...or the next day. Anyway, with no sun to dry off the dew that the high humidity has left overnight, hiking might have been a bit too wet. Gypsy and I will go out and pick the tame raspberries instead.

Murphyism of the Day

Natalie's Law of Algebra

You never catch on until after the test.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Diplomacy is the art of knowing what not to say.

- Matthew Trump

Thirsty Plants - August 2008

Word of the Day

Kipple - Any collection of useless objects. Over time, kipple will reproduce itself if not attended to.

It's a Tuesday and I'm back to normal. Laundry Day. I picked and cleaned raspberries yesterday and then I walked up my driveway with Gypsy to pick the few blackberries that grow on either side of my 1/2 mile driveway. There have been no more than a handful at this point, but I think Sis and I would be wise to hike out on the logging road tomorrow or the next day to check things out. There are several varieties of blackberries that grow along the logging road. The biggest ones are probably ripe. I know that I've been picking those already and some are almost done.

It's getting really warm and sticky...normal for August. The thermometer on my deck read more than 100°F yesterday afternoon. HTP says I should move the sensor since it's on the south side of the house but we already have a thermometer on the north side of the house. It's good to know what the temperature is out on the deck. There's no way that I was going to sit outside with temperatures reading 100+°F. The other thermometer read 85°F but, as I mentioned earlier, it is on the north side of the house and it's in the shade. We'll have to close up and pull shades early today to keep things cooler inside so we don't have to make the AC work so hard. It's supposed to be even warmer today than yesterday.

I watered my plants on the deck this morning. 100°F temperatures make for some really thirsty plants. My tomatoes are ripening. On a side note, I plan to plant First Lady tomatoes next year out in the Earthboxes. They're doing really well, despite the blight that hit them, I can't believe how many tomatoes are coming on just the two plants I have out there. The Brandywine tomatoes aren't producing many tomatoes at all...in comparison. I read about a new variety of tomatoes called Legend that are supposed to be very resistant to blight...early and late types of blight. I'll have to see if I can find out where I can buy this variety and try it in my kennel garden next spring. If I can't...I don't plan to plant any tomatoes out there unless I can find a similar tomato plant that promises the same as the Legend. I figure since Legend was developed in Oregon where people walk around with webbed feet due to the amount of rain and drizzle and damp, this tomato may work out here where we've been experiencing similar weather conditions.

I really should do some weeding in the flower gardens...more weeding...but it's hard to motivate myself to do outdoor work when it's so hot and humid. Maybe tomorrow.

Murphyism of the Day

Sixth Law of Applied Terror

At eh end of the semester you will recall having enrolled in a course at the beginning of the semester - and never attending.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

It is certainly desirable to be well descended, but the glory belongs to our ancestors.

- Plutarch (46 AD - 120 AD), 'Morals,' 100 A.D.

Me,#1 Son,"Aunt" and "Uncle" C. and "Cousin" Kate - August 17,2008


Me and One of My Very Best Friends - August 17, 2008

Word of the Day

Kidiot - A stupid child.

I didn't blog on Saturday because #1 Son came home on Friday night and slept in his bed, which only makes sense, but I'd already washed the sheets and prepped that room (his room) for guests that were going to need that bed (with clean sheets) for Saturday night. So, when HTP told me about this at around 2 AM, I got up at 6 AM so I could wake my poor son up, drag him out of said bed (his bed) in order to wash the sheets and remake the bed...again. However, to be fair, #1 Son was more than willing and it was he who washed the sheets and re-made the bed before our company arrived. And, it was he who slept on the couch on Saturday night, giving up his bed for "Cousin" Kate.

#1 Son also cooked lunch AND supper for our guests on Saturday. He took his "cousin" for a boat ride after a lunch of grilled brats, while my friends "Aunt" and "Uncle" C. remained on shore chatting. We even had a wine-tasting session after the boaters returned to shore. "Aunt" wasn't too fond of the Pomegranate wine. Too dry. I think her favorite was the Dandelion wine...but the Rhubarb wine came in a close second. #1 Son also cooked up the marinated chicken for supper that night. And the next morning? He made some really wonderful biscuits to go with some of the jam his "cousin" helped me make on Saturday. We cooked up three batches of raspberry jam. Kate wanted to learn how to make jam so after supper, I dug out the berries that I had in the freezer, brought some empty jars up from the basement and I showed her how to make jam. HTP printed out the labels and on Sunday morning, before our company had to leave, I boxed up the newly made jam to send along with them, reserving on jar of the sugarfree jam for myself. Anyway, after making the jam and listening for the "ping"....we all enjoyed watching a Jackie Chan movie (DVD). By this time it was getting late and we all knew that we had to make an early start in the morning since HTP and I had to drive into The Big City for a family reunion and our friends and their daughter had to continue on their journey, moving their daughter (Cousin Kate) into her new digs in Madison where she'll be working on her Master's Degree for the next two years.

So....that's my excuse for not blogging on Saturday. I never found the time to do more than spend a totally enjoyable day with friends and family.

As for Sunday? After waving goodbye to our friends...taking pictures first....and after waving goodbye to #1 Son, who had to return to The Big City and work....HTP and I loaded up our own car, took Gypsy over to my folks' place for the day, and headed to The Big City for a Very Italian Family Reunion Picnic in The Park. Me? I'm an IBM (Italian by Marriage), but I'm getting the hang of it. HTP and I couldn't bring any hot Italian dishes to share due to the two and a half hours it took to drive to the reunion, but I was able to make a nice Italian-style bean and zucchini salad. There was LOTS of food which isn't really surprising because Italians love to feed people and, in my humble opinion, Italian food is the best food EVER! Lots of REALLY wonderful food. Pasta dishes with Italian sausage. Italian fried peppers with sausage. Pizza Frit'. Scatzell. Cavatell' in sauce. Lots of bread. Cold salads. Pizzelle. Desserts that I recognized and some that I didn't. Familiar foods....family recipes. Lots of wonderful family stories. Talking to cousins who my husband hasn't seen in years. Meeting the next generation for the very first time. Sorting through and examining the branches of the family tree. Sharing family stories that we'd never heard before or if we had...who would mention it? I even won something at the silent auction which was held to defray the cost of future family reunions! A bottle of wine from the region where HTP's family lived in Italy, a cookbook, and some wonderful pastas and sauce and ingredients to make my own sauce. Four hours flew by and we were packing up, hugging and waving goodbye to family and friends.

After leaving the reunion, HTP and I drove over to see his folks in their new apartment. HTP's Dad saw our car drive into the lot from the window of their apartment. Now...this, on the surface, doesn't sound all that incredible but you have to realize that HTP's Dad is nearly blind due to macular degeneration. However, he saw our car pull into the parking lot of their complex and was headed down the hall to greet us. HTP's Mom was thrilled to see us. We found her knitting in the new apartment. HTP's sister did a great job settling them into their new place. HTP and I visited for a while and showed HTP's Mom some of the photos that we'd taken at the family reunion. We passed along the hugs and well wishes and promises of future visits. But...then we had to leave and come home. HTP's Mom wanted us to stay for supper but we explained that we'd already been fed. I wish I'd thought to fix a plate of food from the reunion to bring back for them to sample. HTP wished he'd taken some short videos with our camera to show his Mom...greetings from family members who missed them. Missed opportunities.

Two and a half hours and we picked up Gypsy from my folks' place. Chatted with my folks for just a little bit since HTP and I were pretty worn out after all that we'd done throughout the day (days). We're looking forward to a few uneventful days....resting up for HTP's 50th Class Reunion which is coming up on Saturday. *moan* Another trip to The Big City.

Murphyism of the Day

Fifth Law of Applied Terror

If you are given an open-book exam, you will forget your book.

Corollary

If you are given a take-home exam, you will forget where you live.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Work is not always required... there is such a thing as sacred idleness, the cultivation of which is now fearfully neglected.

- George McDonald

Happy 1st Birthday Ms. En!

Word of the Day

Kharmageddon - When one is paid immediately for all the bad things one has done in one's life.

Mea Culpa! I didn't blog yesterday. I've been incredibly busy. I'll have to catch you up on all the activities of yore and today...tomorrow. I really don't feel much like blogging anymore today but I couldn't let the sun set before I had the chance to say....

Happy


First Birthday


Ms. En!


Murphyism of the Day

Fourth Law of Applied Terror

The night before the English history midterm, your biology instructor will assign two hundred pages on planaria.

Corollary

Every instructor assumes that you have nothing else to do except study for that instructor's course.

Ms. En with Great Grandma and Great Grandpa D. at The Lake - August 2008

Word of the Day

Kharma - Bad or harmful karma.

I fed Ms. En breakfast and kept an eye on her while DD Daughter and GI Joe ran around and packed and loaded up all their stuff. DD Daughter almost forgot her cell phone but remembered at the last moment. They're heading to The Big City today to see Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa (HTP's folks) and maybe see Great Aunt J who will be helping HTP's folks move into their new apartment today. DD Daughter and GI Joe are also looking forward to a walk around The Mall of America. DD Daughter wants to take Ms. En to The Rainforest Cafe. She kept telling Ms. En that it would be like eating in It's a Big Big World? I guess I haven't kept up with the latest children's TV programing. Vacation time is almost over. DD Daughter has school and GI Joe has to be back at work on Monday.

Oh well...it's really quiet here now that everyone has left. I've already stowed away the high chair and the baby gate for the next visit we get from a grandchild. I've got company coming on Saturday, so I'm washing sheets and getting the guest rooms ready. HTP and I will have to make another run into the city to re-stock groceries. The weather has cleared up and the sun is shining. I should be able to get out and pick the beans today...and the raspberries. Company is coming and I need to make jam. #1 Son told us he was coming later today to spend the weekend too. He's going to have to sleep on the couch. There are times that I wish I had more guest rooms.

I completed Week 4 of the 100 Push-up Challenge. One day of rest, and I get to take the exhaustion test again. Will I be able to move on to Week 5? We'll see.

Murphyism of the Day

Third Law of Applied Terror

Eighty percent of the final exam will be based on the one lecture you missed about the book you didn't read.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.

- Bertrand Russell (1872 - 1970)

Grandma Froggy Sitting on the Deck with Ms. En - August 14, 2008


See the Pretty Flowers?


Grandma Froggy Has Some Really Neat Toys for Ms. En



Word of the Day

Keybergoo - Used to describe the sticky keyboard of a computer or musical instrument after food, drink, or some other sticky substance is dropped on it.

I am so totally tired of rain. I love rain but not this dreary drippy stuff with no bang or light show. This drippy stuff just makes my joints hurt. Yes, I realize that we need rain but couldn't it have held off until DD Daughter and GI Joe and Ms. En had left and a couple days beyond because I've got more company coming this weekend and HTP and I have to drive into The Big City for a family reunion picnic on Sunday. But...it can rain all it wants after that. Thankfully, we did get some sunshine on the first couple of days that my daughter and her family were here and last night the sun finally broke through long enough for Ms. En and me to sit out on the swing until the mosquitoes found us and then we transferred our outdoor time to the deck where the mosquitoes don't come until after dark. I even had time to run out and pick the raspberries. Unfortunately, the beans in the garden are probably getting beany. I was hoping to pick those today but things need to dry off before I can get out and do it.

My kennel garden tomatoes are totally blighted. There are no leaves left to support the tomatoes that are stubbornly clinging to the vines. I'm just hoping that I can hold off picking. There will be no future tomatoes coming from the kennel garden this year and I doubt I'll bother planting tomato plants out there next spring. No amount of spraying has helped. With all this damp, the tomatoes in my Earthboxes are even starting to blight. I've been spraying and removing the blighted leaves but it's been so damp. Apparently blight thrives in this kind of humidity.

Murphyism of the Day

Second Law of Applied Terror

The more studying you did for the exam, the less sure you are as to which answer they want.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Goodness is the only investment that never fails.

- Henry David Thoreau (1817 - 1862)

Happy Birthday Ms. En!

Word of the Day

Kewl - Slang. Totally awesome; great or exciting.

HTP and I get to baby-sit tonight for Ms. En while DD Daughter and GI Joe go to a movies. Woohoo! More time alone with Ms. En!


Murphyism of the Day

First Law of Applied Terror

When reviewing your notes before an exam, the most important ones will be illegible.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you walk into an open sewer and die.

- Mel Brooks

Ms. En Playing With Gypsy

Word of the Day

Karmageddon - It's like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And then, like, the Earth explodes and it's like a serious bummer.

We're going to celebrate Ms. En's First Birthday today! Of course, it isn't really her birthday today but she can't be here for her real birthday so I decided that we'd celebrate early, while she's here. No balloons or party hats, but, we'll have cake and ice cream and she can open her presents. This way, she'll have time to play with her presents while she's here.

I wish I could have taken some pictures yesterday while I was taking care of Ms. En. *sigh* I don't know why HTP decided to take the camera with him but it's our only camera so...no pictures. We'll take more pictures tonight but yesterday was a perfect day for taking pictures. The sun was shining. Ms. En got to play out on the lawn with flower that I picked for her...at least...until Gypsy ate the flower.

Murphyism of the Day

Second Law of Final Exams

In your toughest final, the most distractingly attractive student in class will sit next to you for the first time.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.

- Lucille Ball (1911 - 1989)

Chasing Ms. En

Word of the Day

Kamaldeep - Taboo; An extremely offensive word labeling someone as a tyrant or other such dark entity stemming from their personality and appearance.

Woohoo! I finally get Ms. En to myself for a little while. DD Daughter and GI Joe went to the city to have their truck checked and HTP followed them. Play time! After playing with a few of Grandma Froggy's various frogs, Ms. En and I decided to go outside for a bit to sit in the shade on the swing. We sat there for quite some time. It's a perfect day for sitting out on the swing. Gypsy came out with us. Keeping an eye on us to make sure that I didn't swing too high with Ms. En. After that, Grandma Froggy showed Ms. En where Grandma picked the blueberries that were in the muffin that she ate bits and pieces of this morning at breakfast. Blueberry Hill. Then Grandma Froggy showed Ms. En where Grandma Froggy grows her beans and tomatoes and raspberries. Afterwards, Ms. En and I came back inside to play fetch with Gypsy. Ms. En thought that was pretty funny. But...DD Daughter told me that Ms. En was supposed to go down for a nap at 12:30 PM so the games had to stop for a while. Gypsy is already napping in her basket under my desk. Me? I think I may take a peek and see if Ms. En is really sleeping. Maybe we'll go out and sit on the swing again after naptime or maybe go for a walk.

Murphyism of the Day

First Law of Final Exams

Pocket calculator batteries that have lasted all semester will fail during the math final.

Corollary

If you bring extra batteries, they will be defective.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

You should not live one way in private, another in public.

- Publilius Syrus (~100 BC)

Gypsy and Ms. En - August 10, 2008


GI Joe, DD Daughter and Ms. En at The Blue Hills Supper Club - August 10, 2008

Word of the Day

Kabombed - The act of destroying a large explosion from something that resembles a bomb.

They're here! DD Daughter, GI Joe and Ms. En. They arrived last night. Ms. En likes the "new" crib...but...she doesn't like how dark it is here at The Lake. DD Daughter borrowed a nightlight to put in their room for tonight. We don't have street lights or city lights out here at The Lake. We've got the moon and the stars and the occasional firefly (lightening bug)...oh...and the more avid of fishermen out in their boats after dark. Red and green light in the bow of the boat, white light on a tall rod..aft.

Gypsy LOVES Ms. En. Gypsy is really gentle but I had to finally separate the two of them. Ms. En hasn't learned how to push an overly affectionate dog and her tongue away. Ms. En LOVES Gypsy too but enough is enough with the licking already.

We all went out to eat at Blue Hills Supper Club this morning. Sunday brunch. Ms. En loves scrambled eggs...and chocolate. She didn't turn up her nose at the smoked salmon or the chicken but the scrambled eggs were a real hit, that and the chocolate mousse. #1 Son sat right next to Ms. En and kept her entertained by fetching the stuff that she threw on the floor for him. And then, across the room, her eyes met those of a older man (four or five), and the flirtation began. She eyed him coyly beneath her lashes. He, the older man, ignored her. She batted her eyes at him. He, ignored her. GI Joe told her that this older man wasn't right for her. Too old. We'll see. Maybe he'll notice her next year when we visit the Blue Hills Supper Club again. She'll be almost 2 years old by then. Maybe this older man will wait for her to grow up a bit more.

Murphyism of the Day

Laws of Class Scheduling

1. If the course you wanted most has room for "n" students, you will be the "n+1" to apply.

2. Class schedules are designed so that every student will waste maximum time between classes.

Corollary

When you are occasionally able to schedule two classes in a row, they will be held in classrooms at opposite ends of the campus.

3. A prerequisite for a desired course will be offered only during the semester following the desired course.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 - 1882)

August Wildflowers - 2008

Word of the Day

Kabomb - Anything that makes a kaboom sound of varying intensity.

#1 Son called yesterday to tell us that he wouldn't be coming to The Lake until some time today...maybe late. He's been using our Gator to move all his stuff from his old apartment to the house that he and his buddies are renting. So, instead of going out for an All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry, I made pizza for supper last night. I love those Pillsbury pizza crusts. They work great for HTP and me. I make my side of the pizza the way I like it, EVERYTHING, and I make HTP's side of the pizza with just cheese and pepperoni. He likes mushrooms too but...I didn't have any. Mushrooms have "mushroomed" in price at the store. Next time I see them on sale (cheap), I'll have to stock up. They keep nicely in the freezer after they've been cut up and cooked. I freeze my green peppers too but...there isn't any reason to do that right now when I've got fresh growing out in one of my Earthboxes on the deck. I really wish I had an extra freezer here at The Lake....or an extra fridge/freezer combo. That would be even better. I haven't been able to convince HTP that we really NEED one. *sigh* Oh well...Sis says that I can borrow some of her freezer space. Maybe I'll take her up on the offer.

I took my second exhaustion test for the 100 Push-up Challenge this morning. Maybe I could have squeezed in one more push-up so I could have gone on to Week 5 of the challenge but...I didn't. So, I'll be repeating Week 4...but...at a higher level. I managed 30 push-ups this morning. That's better than the 25 that I did for my previous exhaustion test. I'm making progress and I didn't want to tear anything. I've noted that exercising in the morning increases my energy level for the entire day...well...almost the entire day. I still haven't licked the energy drain that occurs at around 3 PM every afternoon and siestas and naps just don't work for me. Actually, maybe another bout of a cardio type exercise? I'll think about it. I don't suppose picking the raspberries or blueberries qualifies as a cardio workout....or making jam and canning.

DD Daughter, GI Joe and Ms. En are coming today. They'll be here for the week. I still need to vacuum (again) and remove any baby hazards from my living room but other than that, I'm ready. I've got Lucky Charms, vanilla wafers, applesauce and hot dogs. I've got all the fixings for making macaroni and cheese. Elbow macaroni, milk, butter and flour, and cheese. I don't make macaroni and cheese from a "kit". That's like opening a can of Spaghettio's and calling it spaghetti. Though...there really isn't anything wrong with Spaghettios...I just didn't think to buy any. I'll consult with DD Daughter and see if she wants me to add it to my grocery list. All of my children loved the things...that and the box "kit"s for macs and cheese. However, I draw the line. Ms. En isn't even one year old. She doesn't need all those artificial colors and flavorings...and salt...at least, not for a main course.

Murphyism of the Day

Weiner's Law of Libraries

There are no answers, only cross-references.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Nobody can be exactly like me. Sometimes even I have trouble doing it.

Tallulah Bankhead (1903 - 1968)

Gypsy - August 8, 2008

Word of the Day

Justifiction - 1. A statement, known to be false, presented in explanation of some action or belief. 2. Any act in which a person fraudulently defends, explains, or makes excuses for an action through false reasoning.

I picked the first of the blackberries today. Gypsy and I hiked down the driveway...me with my berry bucket, Gypsy running ahead, stopping to watch me with a puzzled look, and there was a lot of sniffling and snuffling going on. There actually weren't all that many blackberries as yet so I went ahead and picked some wild raspberries. I figured that I was already out there picking berries so why not. Of course, it'll take me at least an hour to clean what I picked but...oh well.

Of course, when Gypsy and I got back home, it became obvious that Gypsy had picked up more than a few burrs during our hike. Since Gypsy needed a bath, I combed out all the burrs before lifting her into the sink. She's become used to these combing sessions. Baths don't bother her. I actually think she likes baths. Thank goodness! I'd hate to have to struggle with her every time. We've worked out a perfect arrangement. Gypsy stands quietly in the kitchen sink while I spray her down and lather her up. She stands quietly in the sink while I rinse her off and wring out her longest hair. She lets herself be wrapped up in a dry towel while I give her a cursory drying, and then she races around the house, shaking vigorously from head to toe and rolling on the carpet. Works for me.

Murphyism of the Day

Vile's Law of Grading Papers

All papers after the top are upside down or backward, until you right the pile. Then the process repeats.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Everything is funny as long as it is happening to Somebody Else.

- Will Rogers (1879 - 1935)

Word of the Day

Junkword - Any word or unword submitted to a slang or unword dictionary that is either already a real word or is not worthy of being called an unword.

After a funfilled trip to a big city for a doctor appointment, HTP and I drove to the city to have some lunch at our one and only "real" Mexican restaurant. I don't call Taco John's a "real" Mexican restaurant. I don't call the restaurant, Juan and Only, a "real" Mexican restaurant either. That used to be the name of the place where we ate today...years ago.... before the new owners re-opened the restaurant under a different name. Better food. Real salsa. Too bad that they don't serve hard liquor. A margarita would have been nice after the morning that I had at the doctor's office. Nothing personal, but I lump doctor's visits right along side of dental visits. I'm not all that fond of being jabbed with needles...especially not one that looks like it could stand in for half a pair of knitting needles. Size 2 or 3. I'm keeping positive thoughts that I won't have to go in for yet another round. However, the taste of real salsa and chips, downed with a Negra Modelo with a slice of lime?...made up for a lot. HTP knows me well. Gave me a whole new lease on life and enough energy to do the grocery shopping.

I even had enough energy left to pick the raspberries when I got home. However, I didn't have the energy to hike out and pick the blackberries that are just starting to ripen. Oh well...maybe tomorrow.

Murphyism of the Day

Seeger's Law

Anything in parentheses can be ignored.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

I stand in awe of my body.

- Henry David Thoreau (1817 - 1862)

Ms. En. - Maybe I'd Better Take a Look at My Fireplace Hearth

Word of the Day

Jumpskiffling - To jump around like a complete moron because of something stupid.

With a grandchild coming to visit, I didn't need anyone to point out that I might want to wash the kitchen floor. I took care of it this morning after breakfast. My kitchen floor is now clean enough to eat off of. Well...at least it's clean. I wouldn't want to eat off it but at least it's not toxic. I'm a firm believer that a little ingested dirt won't hurt anyone...adds immunities to the system. However, having said that, my floor is clean. I just want to point out that I do have a dog who walks on said floor and so does HTP and so do I. But, aside from whatever HTP and I and the dog track in, the floor is clean. I even used Mr. Clean...the one that kills germs. So, Ms. En, if a Cheerio or even several Cheerios drop on my floor, and if your Mom and Dad say it's OK to eat said dropped Cheerio(s), you can eat off my kitchen floor.

DD Daughter told me yesterday that I didn't have to take Gypsy's toys away for fear that Ms. En may decide to munch on them. Ewwww! Dog spit? Well, I guess DD Daughter has inherited my opinion about immunities. Gypsy won't mind sharing her toys with Ms. En and DD Daughter tells me that Ms. En has already learned to share so she won't mind if Gypsy decides to take her toys back...gently. I think a little parental supervision may be warranted...and grand-parental supervision. We wouldn't want Ms. En and Gypsy playing tug-a-war over Gypsy's stuffed duck. And I'm sure that it won't kill Ms. En if Ms. En decides she likes the flavor of Gypsy's new dog food (the dry stuff, not the special stew...which won't be an issue because Gypsy will be eating her stew before Ms. En is up and about.)

I've still got time before I baby-proof the living room. I'll have to move a few things that Ms. En may decide to pull herself up on or find interesting to explore and put in her mouth. As I watch TV tonight, I'll have to glance around and see what might be better stored in my closet or down in the basement for the week. For sure, I'll have to take the telescope down to the basement.

Murphyism of the Day

Vile's Law for Educators

No one is listening until you make a mistake.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

There must be more to life than having everything.

- Maurice Sendak

Word of the Day

Judder - A cross between a jerk and a shudder.

Phone Tag. I sprayed the weeds on both sides of the driveway, giving and extra shot of poison for the ones that are pushing their way through the blacktop on our driveway. Then, I missed a phone call and had to call that person back but I could only leave a message on her answering machine. So, I took the phone down to the basement while I folded laundry and started another load. No call. I couldn't take the phone outside while I picked the raspberries but I guess it didn't matter because I haven't been tagged back...yet. Next? I have to go pick the beans in the garden but I thought I'd blog first to give this person a chance to return my call. Whoop! Got it. Now....I'm going to go out and pick the green beans and hopefully there we won't end up playing any more phone tag today. However, I'm not going to stay inside and sit by the phone to prevent it from happening. I hate phone tag but I hate sitting inside by the phone even worse, especially when there's things that need doing outside. Temperatures rising. The beans are going to pick themselves.

Murphyism of the Day

Meredith's Law of Grad School Survival

Never let your major professor know that you exist.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Hope is necessary in every condition.

- Samuel Johnson (1709 - 1784)

Word of the Day

Jokative - Describes one who expresses themselves frequently through joke.

I'm trying to get up the gumption to make some cookies this morning. For some reason, I can't seem to have any energy to do anything at all despite the fact that there is lots that needs doing. Oh well...I did strip the beds and I've got a load of sheets started. Today isn't laundry day but the sheets need washing and I don't want to be totally overwhelmed tomorrow when I do the rest of the laundry.

It rained yesterday. Thankfully, I already had picked the raspberries because it was a real whomper of a rain storm. Lightening, thunder, sheets of rain. Only an inch but it's an inch that we needed. How come it always rains when I water my garden? At least we didn't get any hail. It looks like I should pick the beans in the garden again. I glanced in that direction after I bilged the boat. Maybe I'll have more energy to pick beans tomorrow. It's kind of wet out there right now. We may even get more rain.

Murphyism of the Day

H. L. Menchken's Law

Those who can, do.
Those who cannot, teach.

Martin's Extension

Those who cannot teach, administrate.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

History is the version of past events that people have decided to agree upon.

- Napoleon Bonaparte (1769 - 1821)

Word of the Day

Jogma - The tenets, secrets and mysteries surrounding proper jogging.

It's going to be a warm and sticky day. Right after breakfast, I raced outside, bucket in hand, to pick the tame raspberries before the heat and humidity would make the task too sticky. Picking the tame raspberries is a task that needs doing every other day, at least, I choose to make it an every other day task versus and daily task. I'm noting that the raspberry bushes on the west side of the house could probably be trimmed. I really should remove the canes that have finished producing so there will be more room for the new vines. Next time I pick the berries, I'll have to bring my pruning shears. The raspberry bushes on the east side of the house are just starting to ripen, as well as the bushes by the garden and the south side of the house. I've got everbearing raspberry bushes. I'll be picking well into the Fall....at least, that's how it happened last year.

HTP is busy making labels for me for the things that I canned yesterday. I'm going to prep and freeze the raspberries I picked today and in the coming days until I have enough to make at least two more batches of jam.

HTP spent the a great deal of the day yesterday out in the garage. He decided that the used crib that we bought could use a new coat of paint. Somehow the project became more involved than I think he intended. Originally, he just meant to paint the parts of the crib that Ms. En might decide to "teeth" but then, that part looked so good after he'd painted it that the rest looked "used". So, he decided to paint the entire crib. Before he could paint the crib, he had to take it all apart, sand down all the pieces that he hadn't painted, and then it took lots more paint that you'd imagine. Anyway, long story short, he started the project two days ago and aside from putting all the pieces back together, at least he got everything painted by around supper time last night. At breakfast, he brought up the subject of decals. At this point, I think we should just put everything back together and we'll leave the decal discussion for another day. Maybe DD Daughter and I can make a run into the craft section of Bargain Bill's and pick something out. I'm thinking a line of tropical rainforest frogs might be interesting...and different. Of course, I may be a tad biased due to my addiction to everything frog.

Murphyism of the Day

Glynn's Law

The amount of aggravation inherent in a business transaction is inversely proportional to the profit.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

If the only prayer you ever say in your whole life is "thank you," that would suffice.

- Meister Eckhart

What's That Pinging Sound That I Keep Hearing?

Word of the Day

Jobsworth - A measure of a task in comparison to a job's worth. A task that, in order to complete, requires compensation above and beyond a single job's worth.

I made two batches of Sugarfree Raspberry Jam this morning. I used a half and half mixture of Maltitol and Erythritol in one batch. In the other batch I used my usual Maltitol. Sis tells me that Erythritol is supposed to be better for you than Maltitol but it leaves a cool taste on your tongue and in your mouth if used alone. They recommend using a half and half mixture for baking and cooking. I'd like to make a couple of batches of Sugarfree Rhubarb/Strawberry Jam today too but that would mean I'd have to brave the sun and the deerflies. I'll think about it.

In the meantime, I did make six pints of Zesty Dill Pickles from the cucumbers that I harvested from my plants in the Earthbox. So far, I have to say that my Earthboxes have produced lots better than my garden....at least when it comes to the zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and cucumbers. The green beans in my kennel garden are doing great. I canned another four quarts of green beans yesterday and have enough fresh beans to cook up for supper tonight. One Earthbox of zucchini seems to produce plenty of blossoms and zucchini for HTP and me....actually, more than enough. You can only use so much zucchini before you get sick of it. I think the one Earthbox of eggplant will be more than enough too. The tomatoes that I planted in my kennel garden are all blighting...even though I've sprayed them. I'm not having that problem with the tomato plants in my Earthboxes. It looks like I'll get lots more tomatoes from my Earthboxes than the plants in my kennel garden. Next year, I may use the kennel garden for beans, lettuce, onions and maybe radishes....we'll see. Maybe I'll even try corn?

Murphyism of the Day

The Budgetary Reminder

A budget is just a method of worrying before you spend money as well as afterward.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Anything that has real and lasting value is always a gift from within.

-Franz Kafka (1883 - 1924)

My Finger Has Healed and I'd Like to Forget About This Guy

Word of the Day

Jimbly - Describing nostalgic, childish or immature fun.

As I was impatiently waiting for the microwave to do its thing, heating up my first cup of coffee for the morning, it struck me that I've become impatient with how long it takes to get things done. I've become a spoiled brat when it comes to time. Two minutes? When I was born, there were no microwave ovens. I remember when HTP and I bought our first microwave oven. It was an Amana Radarange. Wow! I really appreciated two minutes back then. Two minutes saved me from watching a pot on top of the stove for ten minutes. Two minutes saved me from an hour baking a potato in the oven. And, best of all, it didn't even take two minutes to heat up formula for a crying baby in the middle of the night. In the grand scheme of things, two minutes isn't a whole heck of a lot of time to wait for that first cup of coffee in the morning while you're waiting for the Mr. Coffee to brew a whole new pot of fresh morning coffee. On the other hand, there are times when it would be nice if two minutes would last a bit longer. Two minutes sure isn't that long when it comes to doing a 100 Push-up Challenge. I just finished Week 3. Column 2. Two minutes between levels for Day 3 , flew by way too fast.

Computers? I remember when my Dad brought home his first calculator. Amazing! My Mom was learning how to program computers....punch cards. Hanging chads anyone? Our first computer was a calculator. Before that you had slide rules and adding machines. I remember programming games onto the Commodore 64! What a leap in technology that was! Before that, we'd play pong on the TV and were amazed at that. Dial-up? E-mail? You'd pay for each an every minute you were on the Internet. No-one had anything faster than dial-up. Faster and faster computers. And then you find yourself having to use dial-up when you're traveling and it's almost painful waiting for e-mails to download.

Technology. But, all our technology can't speed up our own human thought processes. Our own human brains have their limitations. It still takes time to think and remember. Today's technology and the speed of computers, memory capacity for those computers, and microwave ovens...all these speedy devices shown in contrast to our own human brains? It sure would be nice if my own feeble human brain could keep up with the desktop computer that I'm writing my blog on today. No-one has invented a way to speed me up or increase my memory capacity. I'm not sure if I'd like it if they did. Who knows what they'll come up with next? Maybe they'll start using nano-technology in such a way that I'll remember things that I'd just as soon forget.

Murphyism of the Day

Cade's Law of Budgeting

the larger the budget, the less effectively the funds are allocated.

Noteworthy Quote of the Day

Freedom of the press is limited to those who own one.

- A. J. Liebling (1904 - 1963)