Now that summer is officially over, it is time to move on to the next season of the year called Fall.
I'm still wearing my flippers and shorts. Tried wearing a pair of blue jeans but with all the mugginess hanging in the air, I converted to a pair of jean shorts instead. Before I could get my trusty KIA loaded up for a road trip to Inverness, I was already breaking out in a sweat! Humidity in the South only goes away briefly during the coldest of days.
I had a delivery of benches to make to one of my favorite "cousin-in-laws". She wanted them to put around her fire pit. There is nothing more relaxing than spending time with family and friends around a fire. Someone will show up with the fixings for smores (graham crackers, marshmallows, and Hershey bars). You sit back, prop up your feet, wrap up in a blanket, and join in on the story telling and laughter. You have to remember to rotate, because one side will be fire and the other will be ice. I have crawled in the bed a many a night to be greeted by an ice cold butt when I go to snuggle!
As you reach the edges of the Delta, you can see that the changes of fall are beginning. As you drive you can see the tree lines begin to change color. Its a much smaller seasonal change that what you get in the mountains, but its there, if you take the time to look.
A common comment you always hear about the Delta is that it is so flat, and there are very few trees. That is now changing. The ground is still flat, but in tracts of land that had been cleared years ago to grow soybeans, acres and acres of hardwood trees are being planted. This is one of those government funded projects to reforest wetland areas.
The fields of corn, rice, soybeans and cotton are much different now. Gone are the lush green fields of spring and summer. The tall rows of corn stalks have already been harvested, combined down and now mulch that will add nutrients for the next planting season. The rice, which turns from lush green to a golden wave as its blown about by the breeze is gone too. There are some soybeans still out there. What was once lush in an army of green leaves are now individual stalks standing at attention in single file. The combine will be here shortly.
Cotton, which was once the mighty "King of the Delta", is becoming harder and harder to find. The costs of production have driven farmers to other crops or out of business all together. In past years, you would immediately know you were in the Delta just from the sight of miles and miles of cotton bolls that have burst open with the South's version of "white powder". You could look on the side of the road and see what looked like road litter all along your path. This was not your average highway trash. This my friend was the "yellow brick road" to the cotton gin! The cotton trailers would be stuffed over the top with the pickings of the day, and the road would get a coating from the loose cotton fibers that would blow off the top. These days, cotton is either stacked in modules or rolled up like hay bales and are picked up by a gin truck for processing.
Some farmers are already plowing their fields into neat rows for next spring's planting season. In the old days rice fields would be burned off to get rid of the straw. But now, with green practices, are reseeded in the spring using "no-tillage" planting. Some corn fields are replanted in the same manner. Now that the row crop harvest season has come to an end, the Delta folks turn their attentions to a different harvest season, deer hunting! Colder temperatures will be here. Thanksgiving will lead into the Christmas season, and then spring will be just around the corner, and the cycle of colors will begin once again. And yes, Flip flop weather will be here again before you know it!
Happy Fall Ya'll!
Retired in 2012. I'm trying to out run old age and boredom. So far, I'm winning the race!
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Monday, October 14, 2013
Tailgating Backup Plan
Every experienced tailgater always has a backup plan, hopefully for everything that can go wrong, and then some. You plan for days and weeks in hopes that the event will go off without a hitch. But, just in case, its best to have a few backup plans just in case. This past week was no exception.
Everyone had great expectations for a great day of football. I was up early, noticed a few clouds, and that the temp was somewhat cool. Did my errands, dropped off all the supplies at the tailgate spot, then back to the condo to wake up the others with the hot smell of Shipley Donuts, right out of the grease!
We arrive at "The Grove" and notice some dark rain clouds fast approaching. So much for that 5-10% chance of rain. But never fear, our backup plan was rain gear in tow. Dropped the ladies off with the second load of party supplies and off to park we went. Quick fancy U-turn and we were headed for our designated parking lot, the Ford Center. Friend Jim and I began our climb up the road when all of a sudden, a huge gust of wind comes barreling through! The plastic road barriers are flying all over the place. I tent awning with canopy began tumbling through the parking lot, finally coming to rest on a ADA golf cart with the driver still in the front seat. He looked up at us, and said "did you see that?" "I think I just wet my pants"! The canopy ended up on the pot-a-johns which actually has an occupant. He came out, tripping on the canopy, yelling "what the hell?" Friend Jim and I just looked at each other, grinned, then picked up the pace, to check on everyone else at the tailgate spot.
There they were, ten or so poor soles, all huddled up in one big family under a 12x12 tent along with food, tables and chairs, barely room for two more needing a beer! By now the bottom had fallen out, water was everywhere, we were laughing, and some were saying "what are we gonna do"? Friend Jim looked up and saw a group of students walking, all soaking wet, One of them, a young lady, learned her weather lesson, to never wear white after Labor Day. She had on a seer linen white dress, and as she passed, you could plainly see the outline of her thong undies! Her Momma would be mortified! And to think, I MISSED it!
The rain subsided, and we went into quick action. AC asked "has it stopped"? I said yes'm, and she began to unfold and set up chairs. A wind gust came through, and we were plummeted with more water. AC yells "you said it had stopped"! Bless her blonde heart, the water was from the tree above. (Love blondes!)
Brought two chafing dishes this time and I was prepared! Water was in an empty gallon milk jug and I had 8 long burning sternos. I brought a butane tabletop burner and had the water in the chafing dishes hot in no time. Brisket and Rotel dip were ready in about 15 minutes. (learned the lesson that sterno takes a long time to heat up water).
We strung the rope lights for use after the game. Power source was to come from a marine battery and a power inverter, works great! Our spot is in an area covered in pine straw. Several went and grabbed additional straw and magnolia leaves to fill in some of the spots that were now muddy pools just waiting for a woman in heels to find.
The afternoon went off without a hitch. Lots of friends came by with a hunger for some "meat", their chip and dip and finger sandwiches weren't cutting it and they knew we would not disappoint! For fun, and since it was blue day, I had added blue food coloring to the cheese straws. They disappeared in minutes. The Mississippi sugar cookies were iced in blue and they did not last the night.
The game was exciting, but a disappointing outcome. Back to the tent we go! Everyone is always looking for another bite to eat before packing up. I hurriedly attempted to hook up the lighting system. Never get in a hurry. Hooked that sucker up backwards, and I here "pop". Blew the fuses. As Bobby Bowden would say "well dadgum!" Never fear, backup plan in hand. I brought a lantern that burned the same fuel as the stove top. Bingo! Instant lighting, after several "dadgums #$%^!!
With the "new" parking plan, it is impossible for 60,000 fans to leave in any orderly fashion. I had my trusty ole fold up wagon, and a rolling ice chest. We were able to pack up everything but the two extra chairs, which we donated to the crew for future events. Made it to the truck in no time, but it took almost 2 hours to get on University Ave, then Lamar, to then cross Highway 6.
Another football Saturday in the books. Time to begin planning the next one, with backup plans!
Everyone had great expectations for a great day of football. I was up early, noticed a few clouds, and that the temp was somewhat cool. Did my errands, dropped off all the supplies at the tailgate spot, then back to the condo to wake up the others with the hot smell of Shipley Donuts, right out of the grease!
We arrive at "The Grove" and notice some dark rain clouds fast approaching. So much for that 5-10% chance of rain. But never fear, our backup plan was rain gear in tow. Dropped the ladies off with the second load of party supplies and off to park we went. Quick fancy U-turn and we were headed for our designated parking lot, the Ford Center. Friend Jim and I began our climb up the road when all of a sudden, a huge gust of wind comes barreling through! The plastic road barriers are flying all over the place. I tent awning with canopy began tumbling through the parking lot, finally coming to rest on a ADA golf cart with the driver still in the front seat. He looked up at us, and said "did you see that?" "I think I just wet my pants"! The canopy ended up on the pot-a-johns which actually has an occupant. He came out, tripping on the canopy, yelling "what the hell?" Friend Jim and I just looked at each other, grinned, then picked up the pace, to check on everyone else at the tailgate spot.
There they were, ten or so poor soles, all huddled up in one big family under a 12x12 tent along with food, tables and chairs, barely room for two more needing a beer! By now the bottom had fallen out, water was everywhere, we were laughing, and some were saying "what are we gonna do"? Friend Jim looked up and saw a group of students walking, all soaking wet, One of them, a young lady, learned her weather lesson, to never wear white after Labor Day. She had on a seer linen white dress, and as she passed, you could plainly see the outline of her thong undies! Her Momma would be mortified! And to think, I MISSED it!
The rain subsided, and we went into quick action. AC asked "has it stopped"? I said yes'm, and she began to unfold and set up chairs. A wind gust came through, and we were plummeted with more water. AC yells "you said it had stopped"! Bless her blonde heart, the water was from the tree above. (Love blondes!)
Brought two chafing dishes this time and I was prepared! Water was in an empty gallon milk jug and I had 8 long burning sternos. I brought a butane tabletop burner and had the water in the chafing dishes hot in no time. Brisket and Rotel dip were ready in about 15 minutes. (learned the lesson that sterno takes a long time to heat up water).
We strung the rope lights for use after the game. Power source was to come from a marine battery and a power inverter, works great! Our spot is in an area covered in pine straw. Several went and grabbed additional straw and magnolia leaves to fill in some of the spots that were now muddy pools just waiting for a woman in heels to find.
The afternoon went off without a hitch. Lots of friends came by with a hunger for some "meat", their chip and dip and finger sandwiches weren't cutting it and they knew we would not disappoint! For fun, and since it was blue day, I had added blue food coloring to the cheese straws. They disappeared in minutes. The Mississippi sugar cookies were iced in blue and they did not last the night.
The game was exciting, but a disappointing outcome. Back to the tent we go! Everyone is always looking for another bite to eat before packing up. I hurriedly attempted to hook up the lighting system. Never get in a hurry. Hooked that sucker up backwards, and I here "pop". Blew the fuses. As Bobby Bowden would say "well dadgum!" Never fear, backup plan in hand. I brought a lantern that burned the same fuel as the stove top. Bingo! Instant lighting, after several "dadgums #$%^!!
With the "new" parking plan, it is impossible for 60,000 fans to leave in any orderly fashion. I had my trusty ole fold up wagon, and a rolling ice chest. We were able to pack up everything but the two extra chairs, which we donated to the crew for future events. Made it to the truck in no time, but it took almost 2 hours to get on University Ave, then Lamar, to then cross Highway 6.
Another football Saturday in the books. Time to begin planning the next one, with backup plans!
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Surprise!
Tailgating in Starkvegas yesterday was full of surprises.
We packed our rain gear, expecting the worst, and to our delight, we were welcomed by a clear, cool, fall day. That turned into one hot, muggy afternoon that never relented! All the water and most everything else that was liquid was consumed, leaving nothing but melted ice water.
With the heat, few of the tailgators were interested in eating hot food. The leftover brisket and jambalaya went to the guys that stayed to help with the take down and loading up.
The funniest sight of the day was watching everyone set up their satellite dishes. Some were pros, and were done in minutes. Others didn't have a clue and came running for help from those that were already tuned into King RTR chopping up its latest victim.
I had the pleasure of meeting Darrell Moore (if memory serves me right). Darrell is in his second stint of coaching footfall in Atlanta Georgia. Darrell was large and in charge, setting up a set of six tents, in orderly fashion. Shading screens were installed, and even all the steaks were driven firmly into the ground. Darrell was not about to let Mother nature interfere with his campsite like she did at the last home game. Darrell is famous for one play during his time playing for Emory Bullard. Darrell was the field goal snapper for Artie Cosbie (sp) for that field goal attempt during which God intervened and blew that kick back just as the ball was splitting the uprights!
We had quite a few visitors, which are always welcome. The kids, as expected were more interested in playing "can jam" and with the large crowd in the Junction, they set up their station in one of the few remaining open areas.
Before you knew it, game time. We had a flyover of four antique airplanes leaving a trail of colorful smoke. Their timing was a little off, but it added to the excitement and anticipation of the opening kickoff. State held its own through the third quarter, but as with most LSU games, the wheels fell off. Future looks bright for next year, from what I saw from the young talent playing their hearts out.
I had been drinking beer at the tailgate, and my bladder usually tells me when its time to enter the stadium, for some gravity relief. For a minute there, I thought I was in the women's restroom line because the line was backed up into the concession line. I hoped one didn't feed the other! Got to my seat, with super sized drink in hand. The whole time I'm watching the game, I'm thinking something is not right. I head back down stairs and for the second time, more backed up lines. Made it to my assigned station, and relief! Or so I thought. Out came red, and my immediate thought was kidney stone. Movement kicked in big time, and its like, been here, done this several times before. Fortunately, the stone was already in my bladder. Spousal unit had some lortab and that helped till the stone movement stopped.
This was confirmation that the unexpected can strike you at any time, even in the middle of a big SEC football game. Time to get your life straight people. Get that annual physical. And yes, as you reach the magic age of 50, schedule to have your plumbing checked.
Life is good, all the time, but occasionally you get surprises along the way. I got mine. Hope you are ready for yours!
We packed our rain gear, expecting the worst, and to our delight, we were welcomed by a clear, cool, fall day. That turned into one hot, muggy afternoon that never relented! All the water and most everything else that was liquid was consumed, leaving nothing but melted ice water.
With the heat, few of the tailgators were interested in eating hot food. The leftover brisket and jambalaya went to the guys that stayed to help with the take down and loading up.
The funniest sight of the day was watching everyone set up their satellite dishes. Some were pros, and were done in minutes. Others didn't have a clue and came running for help from those that were already tuned into King RTR chopping up its latest victim.
I had the pleasure of meeting Darrell Moore (if memory serves me right). Darrell is in his second stint of coaching footfall in Atlanta Georgia. Darrell was large and in charge, setting up a set of six tents, in orderly fashion. Shading screens were installed, and even all the steaks were driven firmly into the ground. Darrell was not about to let Mother nature interfere with his campsite like she did at the last home game. Darrell is famous for one play during his time playing for Emory Bullard. Darrell was the field goal snapper for Artie Cosbie (sp) for that field goal attempt during which God intervened and blew that kick back just as the ball was splitting the uprights!
We had quite a few visitors, which are always welcome. The kids, as expected were more interested in playing "can jam" and with the large crowd in the Junction, they set up their station in one of the few remaining open areas.
Before you knew it, game time. We had a flyover of four antique airplanes leaving a trail of colorful smoke. Their timing was a little off, but it added to the excitement and anticipation of the opening kickoff. State held its own through the third quarter, but as with most LSU games, the wheels fell off. Future looks bright for next year, from what I saw from the young talent playing their hearts out.
I had been drinking beer at the tailgate, and my bladder usually tells me when its time to enter the stadium, for some gravity relief. For a minute there, I thought I was in the women's restroom line because the line was backed up into the concession line. I hoped one didn't feed the other! Got to my seat, with super sized drink in hand. The whole time I'm watching the game, I'm thinking something is not right. I head back down stairs and for the second time, more backed up lines. Made it to my assigned station, and relief! Or so I thought. Out came red, and my immediate thought was kidney stone. Movement kicked in big time, and its like, been here, done this several times before. Fortunately, the stone was already in my bladder. Spousal unit had some lortab and that helped till the stone movement stopped.
This was confirmation that the unexpected can strike you at any time, even in the middle of a big SEC football game. Time to get your life straight people. Get that annual physical. And yes, as you reach the magic age of 50, schedule to have your plumbing checked.
Life is good, all the time, but occasionally you get surprises along the way. I got mine. Hope you are ready for yours!
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Bob, "The Grin"
I've got a FB friend that some of you know. Went to the same high school growing up. He was in my sister's class, four years behind. He even took her to their high school prom. This guy is as "Crusty" as they come. He says what ever comes to mind, no holds barred. He is an avid MSU Bulldog fan, till the day he dies. He is one of the hardest working people that I know. I don't think that that are many people that put in as many hours in a week as this guy. I have often wondered what made this guy tick, and have found a few clues in some of his postings on Facebook. You have to look hard, and read between the lines, but if you dig deep enough, you will find quite a man in Bob, "the Grin", Buchanan.
I have wondered why he spends so much time working. He is the Frito-Lay guy of the Delta, has a pet spa called "Paradise Pet Spa" and works several other jobs when he is not asleep or supporting his Bulldogs. Bob doesn't post much about his personal life, but every now an then he will slip and post something like this:
I want to give a big shout out to my wife Julie Navarro Buchanan. She is the person that makes it all happen for me to be able to go to these out of town games. Julie is a bigger fan than I am. You all know how I feel about the Dawgs. Well multiply that times 2 and that is Julie.
But Julie can't attend out of town games. It takes luck just for her to attend a game in Starkville. Julie job will no...t allow her to take off. She worked at Wal Mart for 25 years. 3 years ago she came to me and told me she wanted to retire and take care of her mom. For the past 3 years Julie works 7 days a week,365 days a year,12 hours a day. No day off,no breaks and no vacations putting pictures up on FB with her feet in the sand. Her day starts at 6 in morning when she goes feed her mom. She then comes home and tries to get few hours sleep. She then goes back to her moms at noon and takes care of her until 10 or 11 at night. She does this with zero complaints. None. She just does it. She gets no pay for this. Her pay is the satisfaction she gets knowing that she is making her mom comfortable as she can as her mom struggles with severe Parkinson's disease. Put this in reality. Julie has worked over 1,200 days straight with no day off. Julie can't even spend Xmas day with us. She loves her niece and nephews so much but she never gets to see them.
Julie only got to go to one ball game last year. She got lucky and was able to take a few hours off. When I go to these out of own games she doesn't mine. She doesn't fuss. She doesn't complain. She just let me do what I do and thats why I love her. She us Superwoman. If you are on Julie page go give her a shout out to and show her some love. #igotbestwifeinworld
Now I have some insight on why he works so hard.
As I mentioned earlier, Bob is a bit "crusty". He can be hard to take, but with him, you get it all, a little bit of sugar, but mostly salt. He can occasionally be found at a couple of his favorite watering holes in the Indianola area, sipping on his favorite adult beverage. I'm sure that those folks in attendance get quite an ear full from one of the masters of "back atcha". If you listen carefully you can pick up on some words of wisdom that come from his lips. Here is a posting from Facebook from yesterday that led me to post this blog entry:
But Julie can't attend out of town games. It takes luck just for her to attend a game in Starkville. Julie job will no...t allow her to take off. She worked at Wal Mart for 25 years. 3 years ago she came to me and told me she wanted to retire and take care of her mom. For the past 3 years Julie works 7 days a week,365 days a year,12 hours a day. No day off,no breaks and no vacations putting pictures up on FB with her feet in the sand. Her day starts at 6 in morning when she goes feed her mom. She then comes home and tries to get few hours sleep. She then goes back to her moms at noon and takes care of her until 10 or 11 at night. She does this with zero complaints. None. She just does it. She gets no pay for this. Her pay is the satisfaction she gets knowing that she is making her mom comfortable as she can as her mom struggles with severe Parkinson's disease. Put this in reality. Julie has worked over 1,200 days straight with no day off. Julie can't even spend Xmas day with us. She loves her niece and nephews so much but she never gets to see them.
Julie only got to go to one ball game last year. She got lucky and was able to take a few hours off. When I go to these out of own games she doesn't mine. She doesn't fuss. She doesn't complain. She just let me do what I do and thats why I love her. She us Superwoman. If you are on Julie page go give her a shout out to and show her some love. #igotbestwifeinworld
Now I have some insight on why he works so hard.
As I mentioned earlier, Bob is a bit "crusty". He can be hard to take, but with him, you get it all, a little bit of sugar, but mostly salt. He can occasionally be found at a couple of his favorite watering holes in the Indianola area, sipping on his favorite adult beverage. I'm sure that those folks in attendance get quite an ear full from one of the masters of "back atcha". If you listen carefully you can pick up on some words of wisdom that come from his lips. Here is a posting from Facebook from yesterday that led me to post this blog entry:
As most of you know I have deactivated my FB account and I will deactivate again in the morning. But I felt the need to activate it tonight to share my feelings tonight about someone for my friends. It's something I enjoy doing. You all know who I want to talk about. Milton Steed. When Scott Shepherd told me this morning that Milton had passed away it really took a great day and turned it into a ...very you know what kind of day. I was floored. For the past 2 years Milton and I have talked some on here or the phone. We always said let's go out one night and have a couple of beers and catch up. We never did have those couple of beers and I thought about that all day. To change subject a sec I have made it clear to my 78 classmates that I have no desire ever for a reunion. I change my mind. I want one because you never know if those couple of beers will come up. Ole Milton was a talker. When he called you up it wasn't going to be a short conversation. One day last year I was running way behind on my route and Milton called. So I just let it ring and said I call him back when I catch up. Then 5 minutes later he called again,then 5 minutes later again. This time he left a voicemail and said "hey Little Buck call me back man,I know you busy but it only take a second". So I called him back. He was right. It only took an hour and a second but it was cool. Always enjoyed talking to him.
Life wasn't always easy for Milton(whose is)but he always came out on top. I don't know Milton wife Paula that well. I saw Milton at the store and he started talking about her and his eyes would just light up talking about her. It was quite clear to me he found his soul mate.
Milton was the 2nd best bass player I ever heard. The best bass player I ever heard was Kevin Mills-who was Milton mentor. And Milton will tell you the same thing. With Milton passing you immediately think of these people. Kevin Mills,Bobby and Billy Marquis and Duff Dorrough. I have friends on my FB page who are musicians and y'all are good-real good. But when those 5 men I just mention played together they were by far the most talent musicians to ever come out of the Delta-bar none. They each had their own personality,style and flair. When they played together they had the "IT" factor. I haven't seen the IT factor in a long time.
I also thought of Fletcher Edwards today where these guys use to rock his bar out with their southern rock and blues. If Marquis band was playing there and the show started at 9 you better get there by 7 for a seat. I thought of Arch Pearson who was a big part of this group. I thought of ole grouchy Fruits Majori today who was always around watching his buddies perform. All 8 men I have mention here were the nicest,kindest and just good hearted down to earth people I had the pleasure to know. For those of you who didn't get to see these people perform you missed out. For you Harper Valley Indianola people who didn't take the time to know these people you really missed out. You missed out big time.
RIP Milton#heavenrockingtonight
Life wasn't always easy for Milton(whose is)but he always came out on top. I don't know Milton wife Paula that well. I saw Milton at the store and he started talking about her and his eyes would just light up talking about her. It was quite clear to me he found his soul mate.
Milton was the 2nd best bass player I ever heard. The best bass player I ever heard was Kevin Mills-who was Milton mentor. And Milton will tell you the same thing. With Milton passing you immediately think of these people. Kevin Mills,Bobby and Billy Marquis and Duff Dorrough. I have friends on my FB page who are musicians and y'all are good-real good. But when those 5 men I just mention played together they were by far the most talent musicians to ever come out of the Delta-bar none. They each had their own personality,style and flair. When they played together they had the "IT" factor. I haven't seen the IT factor in a long time.
I also thought of Fletcher Edwards today where these guys use to rock his bar out with their southern rock and blues. If Marquis band was playing there and the show started at 9 you better get there by 7 for a seat. I thought of Arch Pearson who was a big part of this group. I thought of ole grouchy Fruits Majori today who was always around watching his buddies perform. All 8 men I have mention here were the nicest,kindest and just good hearted down to earth people I had the pleasure to know. For those of you who didn't get to see these people perform you missed out. For you Harper Valley Indianola people who didn't take the time to know these people you really missed out. You missed out big time.
RIP Milton#heavenrockingtonight
These words from Bob need to be put into a song. He had such devotion to these "music men of the Delta", none of which I had the pleasure of hearing in person. Please, take heed in the message he is conveying. Take the time, to stop, listen, and learn.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Toasted and Roasted but Still Creaking and Squeaking
As I get older, there are things that have begun to happen to me and my body, that only old people talked about or experienced. Well, looks like I'm fast approaching that "next phase" of this wonderful thing called life.
The first sign was roller coasters. Loved doing the mild ones with the spousal unit and the boys. The look on Matthew's eyes when he road his first after finally reaching the minimum height limit. Or when Morgan lost his favorite cap at Six Flags, Then opening up the package at home to find that the Park had mailed it back to him. My stomach now twists and turns, my face turns green, and my whole body turns clammy for several hours. Bring on the grand babies and the kiddie rides!
As most people know, I love to cook, and I love pepper. The first sign was when I'd be eating wings at BWW, and the hair on the backside of my head would begin to sweat. No problem, just turn down the heat a bit. Now I feel like I'm blasting with dynamite. Eat something hot now, then suffer "fire in the hole!" later!
Used to be, when out on the town, I'd get the urge, go to the trough, and stand there and wait for things to get started. Once the pressure got started, you felt a big aaahh. Now, you stand there with other gents in similar situations, waiting for things to get started. Someone will yell out "any progress down there?" and we all giggle, thinking not yet, but hopefully soon! Had an old boss one time that was standing there, trying to find his soldier. He suddenly figures out the problem and mumbles "damn, gott'em on backwards again.". I chuckled big time. Happened to me a week later.
I guess I can adjust and adapt to a change in lifestyle:
The other day I rode the electric shopping cart back to Lowes to save the card guy the trouble. Kinda slow, but the stomach held up.
I figure I can add a little paprika to food for color, and I'm already using milder rubs that are low on cayenne pepper.
As I wake up each day, I reach for my daily dose of alieve for all the aches and pains in the joints. The spousal unit now has a temporary handicapped parking permit, and that has been a life saver for her. We look like two weebles wobbling walking down the road, but we don't fall down!
I have had bifocal eyewear for some time. Now I find that I am taking them off to look and read at things up close. Thankfully this has not effected my "bird watching".
I have reached milestone #57 this weekend. Looking forward to many more. Too many blogs to write to slow down now. Already got the first beach trip booked for 2014, and working on the next one.
Life is good, all the time. Don't sit still and let it pass you by.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Birthday Tour, Year 57
I'm not much Of a birthday party boy. Never been one for the party scene. But I do like road trips that involve food and people. Birthday number 57 became a planned road trip to Nashville to see son #1, girly friend, and Henry Dog.
The day started off by making dog treats for Henry and cookies for the son. Almost the same thing when you think about it. Both will do just about anything for their favorite treat.
There are several routes to Nashville, but none of them are short. Trace, I55 to I40 or the route we took, I20 to Birmingham, then up I65. Probably come back I40 to I55 to break up the scenery.
A late start made lunch a "no brainer", Dreamland in Tuscaloosa! Got there about 1:30 and you would have thought it was high noon. Parking lot was totally full. There was even security at the door.
Never seen it like this. Guess its an every weekend occurrence during home game weekends. We had to wait a few minutes minutes to be granted access to a table, at DREAMLAND! Ended up sharing a table with a couple, Kevin & Tiffany, from Covington, Louisiana.
Waitress came to take out order, and she actually "asked" is if we wanted to start with one slab. I countered "when did y'all start asking?! It was love at first sight! First, the appetizer, barbecue sauce and white bread. Best ever! Turns out our table mate is a youth pastor at a Baptist Church down there in Catholic country. He said a short blessing and even blessed me before we "broke bread" and grabbed a bone!
We got to the last bone on our plate, and Kevin and Tiffany both looked at me and asked "what was I waiting on"? I had to tell them the story about the last slice of the Spousal unit's birthday cake. Ever since I heard the words "bull shit ass hole", I refuse to take the last of anything. Left that last rib sitting on that plate!
The ribs at Dreamland aren't the best by any means. But, the combination of the smoke, the atmosphere, and the sauce make these a treat worth the out of the way location. But, don't ever get them to go to eat later. Hot, or not, never cool.
Time to once again hit the road to Nashville. Get to Birmingham and hit I65. Very busy interstate. Before long, gravity and three glasses of tea kick in. We spot a sign for a Stuckey's up the road at exit 318. They had us hooked! Good thing, because we passed a couple of other stops along the way. Stuckey's were the only roadside stops along the interstate when the system was opened. Great concept, but got gobbled up by bigger players when they finally figured it out. These were the original convenience stores where you could find just about anything:
This store was a stand alone operation on exit 318, complete with gas pumps, bathrooms, snacks and trinkets of all kinds, and even a grille and ice cream shop. I got the thickest vanilla milkshake I'd ever seen.
Since all the Nashville area hotels were overloaded, we had booked a freebee out by Smyrna. This Hampton Inn even had a complementary charging station for electric cars.
You would definitely need it for the power to get over the hills up here. Hills they got. Even saw what looked like a castle on top of one of the highway cutouts. Love to see it on another trip.
Son #1 and his girly friend had plans for an outdoor concert. Arriving layer than planned, we chose to "wing it" and see them the next day.
Time for dinner. Since I had my Landry Select dining card, and since it as birthday month, I picked the Acquarium restaurant, one of Landry's latest selections. The location was at he Opry Mills outlet mall. Parking nightmare. Once we entered inside, I immediately notice this lonesome cowboy up on the public stage, telling a story, tuning his guitar. He had an audience of three. DUDE! Just play and sing before you lose these three!
We loved the restaurant. Great wait staff, food was excellent, and a salt water aquarium to kill for!
We had a great time. The waiter, like Son #1 was a starving musician, but with a side job with food benefits. He went out of his way to tell us all about the restaurant and the contents of the salt water aquarium. If you have kids, great experience. Dinner done, we decided to take in a movie. Turns out this one sells beer. Got to wondering when the "last call" would be since they don't have a "7th inning". Saw the "Family". Short on plot, big on violence and cussing, just what an R-rated movie calls for.
It way a great start to birthday tour #57. Best part was sharing it with my best friend, the number one spousal unit in the universe! Love ya babe, thanks for a great day!
The day started off by making dog treats for Henry and cookies for the son. Almost the same thing when you think about it. Both will do just about anything for their favorite treat.
 |
| Bones for Henry |
A late start made lunch a "no brainer", Dreamland in Tuscaloosa! Got there about 1:30 and you would have thought it was high noon. Parking lot was totally full. There was even security at the door.
 |
| Nothing like the original location |
 |
| Tent for game day pickup. |
 |
| Notice the security guard blocking the door |
Never seen it like this. Guess its an every weekend occurrence during home game weekends. We had to wait a few minutes minutes to be granted access to a table, at DREAMLAND! Ended up sharing a table with a couple, Kevin & Tiffany, from Covington, Louisiana.
 |
| New friends from Louisiana |
Waitress came to take out order, and she actually "asked" is if we wanted to start with one slab. I countered "when did y'all start asking?! It was love at first sight! First, the appetizer, barbecue sauce and white bread. Best ever! Turns out our table mate is a youth pastor at a Baptist Church down there in Catholic country. He said a short blessing and even blessed me before we "broke bread" and grabbed a bone!
 |
| Big Poppa's chair |
 |
| "Recent" addition to the menu |
We got to the last bone on our plate, and Kevin and Tiffany both looked at me and asked "what was I waiting on"? I had to tell them the story about the last slice of the Spousal unit's birthday cake. Ever since I heard the words "bull shit ass hole", I refuse to take the last of anything. Left that last rib sitting on that plate!
 |
| Last bone on the plate |
The ribs at Dreamland aren't the best by any means. But, the combination of the smoke, the atmosphere, and the sauce make these a treat worth the out of the way location. But, don't ever get them to go to eat later. Hot, or not, never cool.
Time to once again hit the road to Nashville. Get to Birmingham and hit I65. Very busy interstate. Before long, gravity and three glasses of tea kick in. We spot a sign for a Stuckey's up the road at exit 318. They had us hooked! Good thing, because we passed a couple of other stops along the way. Stuckey's were the only roadside stops along the interstate when the system was opened. Great concept, but got gobbled up by bigger players when they finally figured it out. These were the original convenience stores where you could find just about anything:
 |
| gotta have a pecan roll |
 |
| This little road side stop almost had every SEC school covered |
 |
| Yep. Vending machines in Tye bathroom |
 |
| You, the Florida Gators and the Kentucky Wildcats can be saved by Jesus |
This store was a stand alone operation on exit 318, complete with gas pumps, bathrooms, snacks and trinkets of all kinds, and even a grille and ice cream shop. I got the thickest vanilla milkshake I'd ever seen.
Since all the Nashville area hotels were overloaded, we had booked a freebee out by Smyrna. This Hampton Inn even had a complementary charging station for electric cars.
You would definitely need it for the power to get over the hills up here. Hills they got. Even saw what looked like a castle on top of one of the highway cutouts. Love to see it on another trip.
Son #1 and his girly friend had plans for an outdoor concert. Arriving layer than planned, we chose to "wing it" and see them the next day.
Time for dinner. Since I had my Landry Select dining card, and since it as birthday month, I picked the Acquarium restaurant, one of Landry's latest selections. The location was at he Opry Mills outlet mall. Parking nightmare. Once we entered inside, I immediately notice this lonesome cowboy up on the public stage, telling a story, tuning his guitar. He had an audience of three. DUDE! Just play and sing before you lose these three!
We loved the restaurant. Great wait staff, food was excellent, and a salt water aquarium to kill for!
 |
| Picture doesn't do this justice |
 |
| Flounder Melissa |
We had a great time. The waiter, like Son #1 was a starving musician, but with a side job with food benefits. He went out of his way to tell us all about the restaurant and the contents of the salt water aquarium. If you have kids, great experience. Dinner done, we decided to take in a movie. Turns out this one sells beer. Got to wondering when the "last call" would be since they don't have a "7th inning". Saw the "Family". Short on plot, big on violence and cussing, just what an R-rated movie calls for.
It way a great start to birthday tour #57. Best part was sharing it with my best friend, the number one spousal unit in the universe! Love ya babe, thanks for a great day!
Monday, September 23, 2013
Bucket List
Everyone has a few things that they always wanted to do but never have the time. I call these my bucket list, like from the movie with Morgan Freeman:
1. Visit the San Diego Zoo. Been a zoo fan since my boys were little. This one has been on my list for a long time.
2. See the sun rise and sunset from Key West. I've gotten older and I may have to have a nap in between
3. Chicken on a stick at the Chevron Station on Lamar Avenue in Oxford, after a night game at OM. For some reason, we never take the time to get this one done. Happening soon!
4. Grand Canyon
5. Snow Angel. never been enough around here, and what we do get has been "yellowed"!
6. Take my grandkids to Orlando. No hurry on this one Boys, we have plenty of time.
7. Hawaii. Been there twice on Company trips. Got timeshare credits to go. Its just a long, long plane ride.
8 .U.S. Virgin Islands. kinda like Hawaii, just got to get there!
9. Smokey Mountains or Colorado during the winter time. The busiest times of my working live have been during snow season. Again, timeshare credits!
10. Heaven. Can't wait to see my two grandmothers again. No hurry on this one by any means. Those two women meant the world to me.
11. Cruise. Been on one, ready for another.
12. LSU tiger Stadium, wearing neutral colors.
Here are things that will never make my list:
1. New York City. Sorry, ain't happening
2. Climbing on my roof again. Been there once, took too long to figure out how to get my big butt back on the ground.
3. Chase another woman. Worked too hard to get and keep the one I got!
4. Work for another asshole. Life is much too short to work at a job that makes you unhappy, depressed, and ill.
5. Listen to someone who says "trust me". Trust me on this one!
6. Loan something out. Burnt too many times on this one. Need something of mine, I come with it. Got some folks that are referred to as the "borrowers"!
7. Trip to another country. I like this one too much to leave.
8. Massage, Manicure and pedicure. Sorry, ain't nobody gonna be touching me. Took too long to train the spousal unit!
9. Class reunions. Never been. Got dragged to one by the spousal unit one time. Pure punishment!
10. Roller coasters. My mind says yes, but the body says puke, turn green, and feel awful for three hours.
1. Visit the San Diego Zoo. Been a zoo fan since my boys were little. This one has been on my list for a long time.
2. See the sun rise and sunset from Key West. I've gotten older and I may have to have a nap in between
3. Chicken on a stick at the Chevron Station on Lamar Avenue in Oxford, after a night game at OM. For some reason, we never take the time to get this one done. Happening soon!
4. Grand Canyon
5. Snow Angel. never been enough around here, and what we do get has been "yellowed"!
6. Take my grandkids to Orlando. No hurry on this one Boys, we have plenty of time.
7. Hawaii. Been there twice on Company trips. Got timeshare credits to go. Its just a long, long plane ride.
8 .U.S. Virgin Islands. kinda like Hawaii, just got to get there!
9. Smokey Mountains or Colorado during the winter time. The busiest times of my working live have been during snow season. Again, timeshare credits!
10. Heaven. Can't wait to see my two grandmothers again. No hurry on this one by any means. Those two women meant the world to me.
11. Cruise. Been on one, ready for another.
12. LSU tiger Stadium, wearing neutral colors.
Here are things that will never make my list:
1. New York City. Sorry, ain't happening
2. Climbing on my roof again. Been there once, took too long to figure out how to get my big butt back on the ground.
3. Chase another woman. Worked too hard to get and keep the one I got!
4. Work for another asshole. Life is much too short to work at a job that makes you unhappy, depressed, and ill.
5. Listen to someone who says "trust me". Trust me on this one!
6. Loan something out. Burnt too many times on this one. Need something of mine, I come with it. Got some folks that are referred to as the "borrowers"!
7. Trip to another country. I like this one too much to leave.
8. Massage, Manicure and pedicure. Sorry, ain't nobody gonna be touching me. Took too long to train the spousal unit!
9. Class reunions. Never been. Got dragged to one by the spousal unit one time. Pure punishment!
10. Roller coasters. My mind says yes, but the body says puke, turn green, and feel awful for three hours.
Bucket lists are great for "been there, done that". The essential thing is to get out there and do something.Took one of Morgan's friends, Nick, to Orlando. The boy would not get on a roller coaster. Last day, he tried one. Couldn't get him off of them the rest of the day. And to think he almost didn't try.
Get out there and enjoy what life has to offer. God is good, all the time!
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