Merry Christmas

 

TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very Merry Christmas.  

I hope your day was filled with good food, family, friends and good times.  

Christmas Memories

 I just finished making a batch of Chex Mix this afternoon, and the first thing that came to my mind was my great-aunt Sybil.  She was married to my grandpa's brother Paul.  But I digress.  Way way back in the day, we visited them in Rineyville during Christmas, and that was the first time I ever had Chex Mix.  She had a huge batch of it in the old school Tupperware cake coverer and plate.  I was blown away.  It sure is a great Christmas memory. 

Merry Christmas Eve Eve

 I didn't do my usual Saturday morning grocery shopping trip because I wanted to get some fresh peel-and-eat shrimp for our traditional Christmas Eve snack supper, so I went this morning.  I can't imagine it would be any busier tomorrow on Christmas Eve. I needed a drink when I got home to steady my nerves.

One thing stood out to me - I saw at least half a dozen shoppers with an aluminum roasting pan in their carts.  They could have gone to Family Dollar less than a block away from Kroger and bought one for $1.25 instead of paying over $5 at Kroger.  I know this because I bought one at Family Dollar yesterday to use to make my Chex Mix. Maybe they'll learn. 

The Mojo Is Off

 Since Neighbor Nick's trees were trimmed down to the trunk, the Old Man and I have noticed that the squirrels and birds have been acting a bit crazy - they have had to find new homes.  It's more noticeable in the squirrels - they used to run on the top of the fence and then jump over to a tree, but now they can't.  Oh well.  That's progress. 

This Day Will Go Down In Infimy

 Today is a very important day for me - it definitely is a monumental day in my life:  I signed up for Social Security.  I will get my first "old age pension" payment in February.  

Someone tried (key word) to talk me out of applying now and wait till I was 67 to get a bigger payment.  I told them thanks for their concern, but I want to start drawing now.  The main reason is the talk about Social Security going broke in 2030.  

I'm happy.  And if it wasn't 9:30 in the morning, I'd have a glass of champagne to celebrate. 

News From The Compound Update

 We thought that Neighbor Nick was going to have both of the gigantic trees cut down to the ground, but instead he changed his mind and they cut off every limb and branch, and cut off some of the tops of the trees.  It's totally fine with me and the Old Man - at least now we won't have to worry about limbs and branches falling on our house.  

News From The Compound

 It took a minute, but the tree cutters are here today taking down the two gigantic trees in Neighbor Nick's yard.  They were there at 8:00 this morning, and have been working non-stop.  As of now, tree #1 is all branch-less, and they are sawing now to take the tree down.  They said they'd be done with both trees today.  

Stay tuned. 

We'll Have A Blue Christmas Without You

 My Favorite Cousin and her Dear Husband had planned their Christmas visit this week.  But both of them have nasty colds so they aren't coming down.  She said this is the first Christmas trip they've missed since they moved to Indiana in 2015.  

We really enjoy their visits - we pack in a lot of partying into three days.  I guess it will be up to me and the Old Man to eat the big batch of Chex Mix that I made. 

A Bright, Sun-shiny Day

 After all of the rain yesterday, today is as pretty and sunny as you'd want it to be.  But more heavy rain and thunderstorms are headed in starting tonight and going through tomorrow.  I am still hoping the weatherazzi is right that Thursday will be a non-rainy day so the tree cutters can come and get their job done.

Stay tuned. 

Here Comes The Rain Again

 It started raining last night, and as I type this it is pouring.  The weatherazzi is calling for rain every day for the week, with the exception of Thursday.  

It rained a couple of days last week, which caused the tree cutters to cancel on Neighbor Nick. The rescheduled for today, but once again had to reschedule until Thursday.  The two trees they are going to cut down are between his house and ours and both of them are half dead.  Whenever we have some wind, small branches are scattered all over our driveway and our front yard.  A year ago, one pretty good sized limb fell over our driveway and took down the phone line, so it is beyond time for them to go.

Stay tuned. 

Flashback Friday

 

In elementary school, the PTA room mothers would have a Christmas party in each classroom after lunch.  We would have cupcakes and cookies, and each of the kids would get a stocking just like in this picture.  We would also get either a pencil or pen that looked like a candy cane.  

It's sad that now, they don't call it a Christmas Party - it's usually called something else, like "Winter Festival".  And the room mothers dare not bring home baked treats - they all have to be store bought.  

Try Again, Weatherazzi

 We didn't get the 2-3 hour long snow squalls that the weatherazzi was calling for.  I was comfy in my LazyBoy chair and was keeping a vigil watch out the back porch doors, but didn't see a flake.  

Snow Update

 The weatherazzi were a bit right - when I left this morning to go to my Bible study class, you could see a slight dusting of snow on the back porch ramp and on the garbage can lid.  The farther east I drove, you could see that they had a little bit more.

Now, they are calling for "snow squalls" this afternoon.  As I type this, the sun is shining and there isn't a cloud in the sky.

Stay tuned. 

Snow Alert

The Weatherazzi is getting worked up over two "waves" of snow tomorrow - one in the morning and another in the afternoon.  As of now they are just calling for a "dusting" but here in the Ohio Valley, that can mean anything from an actual dusting to a foot.

Stay tuned. 

Dodged A Bullet

 We dodged a bullet today here at The Compound.  Background, first.  Tree cutters are coming tomorrow morning to cut down two gigantic trees in Neighbor Nick's side yard.  I had already thought to move the Silver Bullet to his driveway tonight, since they will have the big crane set up in our driveway.  So this morning, I was sleeping good, and slept in a bit, when I heard the Old Man say "get up and see what's going on.  They got the road in front closed off, and lot of trucks." So I quickly put in my contact lens and threw on clothes to go out and move the Silver Bullet, thinking the tree cutters were there a day early.  But it was "just" the water company, replacing water lines to a home that was four houses up the road from us.  The two houses on either side of that house had their water cut off, but thankfully we weren't affected. 

I ran up to the post office to get stamps and get the fixings for a batch of Chex Mix, and when I got home, went ahead and parked the Silver Bullet in Neighbor Nick's driveway.

Stay tuned for updates on the two gigantic tree removals tomorrow and Wednesday.  

Christmas Decorating Update

 Our little tree is lit up and decorated.  And we are waiting for some battery-powered lights to put up on the fireplace mantle and hearth, which should be delivered tomorrow.  We needed a little more light in the family room.

Stay tuned. 

Christmas Decorating Update

 All of the Christmas decorations are in place, with the exception of a wreath and greenery out on the side and back porches.  The little live Christmas tree is in place, and I will decorate it tomorrow.  Batteries are in full supply for our light-up decorations, so all is well right now.  

Stay tuned. 

So Much For That

 So much for my dream about winning the daily double at Gulfstream with #5 and #7.  The winners were #1 and #6.  Oh well. 

Dream Update

 The racing has resumed at Gulfstream Park, and I just now made my bet for the late daily double for #5 in the 9th race and #7 in the 10th race.  Wish me luck.

Stay tuned. 

Dream Dream Dream

 I had an interesting dream last night.  I dreamed that I won the late Daily Double at Gulfstream Race Track, and the winning horses were number 5 and number 7.  I don't remember how much I won, but I know it was big.

I checked and Gulfstream isn't racing today or else I would make that bet.  They will race tomorrow, and I will for sure bet.

Stay tuned. 

It's Almost Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

I had to take a friend to an eye doctor's appointment this morning, and on my way home I stopped at Home Depot and got a very cool three and a half foot fir tree for us.  I've got it in the garage with water in the stand, and am going to surprise the Old Man tomorrow when we start decorating for Christmas.  

Welcome Early Winter

 The Weatherazzi is calling for 1 to 2 inches of snow starting later this evening.  When I was at Kroger earlier, there wasn't an extra amount of people shopping for the obligatory milk and bread on a snow eve.  I just needed a few things so I was in and out quickly, thank goodness.

Bring on the snow.  

Black Friday

 My Black Friday shopping consisted of going to Walgreens to get some Axe deodorant for the Old Man and a bottle of saline solution for me. Nuff said. 

Happy Thanksgiving

 TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy Thanksgiving.  I hope you have a great Thanksgiving dinner, and even more, I hope you are thankful.  

Flashback Thanksgiving Eve

 Way back in the day, on Thanksgiving Eve, the Old Man and my Sweet Mother would stop at Eddie's Seafood House on their way home from

 work and get a big fish box for us to have for supper.  Since Gram was all into Thanksgiving Day dinner mode, she wasn't in the mood to cook, so we would have Eddie's awesome fish and fries.  

I still miss Eddie's.  Their fish was awesome - cooked perfectly, and not fishy, and their krinkle fries were great.  

On a side note, we are not getting our usual Cracker Barrel dinner tomorrow - I am cooking.  We got a ham, and I will make the sides.  And quasi-keeping with Thanksgiving Eve tradition, I'm not cooking.  We will have a mini salad bar tonight.  

File Under: WTF?

 I ran up to Kroger this morning to fill up the Silver Bullet, and while I was pumping my gas, I saw something that made me think WTF?  A young twenty-something woman in the car in front of me was pumping her gas, and she had on a down-filled parka, almost-to-the-knee Ugg boots, and had on shorts.  All I could think was WTF?

Progress

 It is no secret that I don't drink enough water.  Mainly, because it's annoying having to go to the bathroom a lot during the day and more inconveniently during the night.  But I will say since I got my new Yeti bottle last week, I have been diligently drinking more water daily.  I'm up to drinking two bottles full, which is 36 ounces.  I know that is pale in comparison to what others drink of just plain water daily, but it is progress for me.  

News From The Hood

 I read some interesting news yesterday about our area - we are getting a WaWa convenience store, restaurant and gas station on Dixie Highway.  The interesting part is that it is going to be where Logan's Steakhouse used to be. So this means that they will have to totally demolish the Logans building, build a new building for the store, and dig up a lot of the existing parking lot for the gas pumps. It makes sense to me now - a month or two ago, I was driving past the old Logans and happened to get stopped by a red light in front of the place, and saw a big orange sign on the door that said "set for demolition."  I didn't think anymore about it until yesterday when I read about WaWa coming.  

I'd never heard anything about WaWa, so I googled it and was very surprised by the menu with a ton of foods and beverages.  The foods are not sandwiches or other items premade and sitting under a light - it is all custom made-to-order Their breakfast menu alone has more items than a lot of regular restaurants that serve breakfast. I'll sure give them a try.  

Stay tuned for updates on the demolition and construction. 

Way To Go, Weatherazzi

 For the past two days, the weatherazzi had everyone worked up over the first snow of the season today.  Here at the Compound, you had to look hard to find any snow accumulation.  But up north in LaFayette, IN where my Favorite Cousin lives, they had 3 inches of snow this morning.  

Stay tuned - I know more snow will be in the forecast. 

This Is Just Not Right

 I've noticed a big change in myself in the past month: I've been cold.  The thermostat is set on 73, as we always have it set when the furnace is on.  The Old Man is comfortable, but for some crazy reason, I have been cold.  I don't need to tell you that I'm the one that can't wait to turn on the a/c once the temperature is about 75 degrees in the spring.  Oh well.  Thank goodness for my hoodies and long-sleeve shirts.  

I Caved

 I am going to confess that I caved.  I bought a Yeti bottle.  But before you diss me, let me explain.  I used points from a Capital One credit card that I haven't used in years, and the bottle didn't cost me anything.  I've been wanting a good insulated water bottle to keep in my purse, and I am glad I came across this one.  It's small by Yeti standards - 18 ounces, and will fit perfectly in my purse, and best of all, it won't sweat and leave water in my purse.

Fall Cleaning Update

 I am happy to report that I put a lot of clothes into a bag to take to the clothes closet at church, and also found some jeans and a couple pair of dress pants that actually fit.  Score.  Tomorrow, I am going to work on the closet some more.  So far, so good.

Stay tuned. 

Fall Cleaning Has Commenced

Fall cleaning at The Compound has commenced.  Well, not entirely, but the need and the intention is there.  I am going to start tomorrow by going through my closet and getting rid of clothes that don't fit anymore.  It took me ten minutes to find a pair of pants that fit to wear to a funeral home visit this past week.  So tomorrow morning, I am going through my closet.

Stay tuned. 

Thank You, Kroger

 I made my usual Saturday trip to Kroger today, and it was more pleasant than other Saturdays.  Today was their "open house for the holidays" and in every department of the store, they were giving away very generous samples.  I had a great cup of apple cider, a delicious pretty big piece of brown honey ham, an always fan favorite little cocktail wienie in sauce, and other things.  I brought home some Lindt truffles for the Old Man, along with some peanut butter filled pretzels and Hershey kisses.  As I type this, I can hear him tearing off the aluminum foil wrappers from the candies.  

I was impressed to see that people that got the samples had the courtesy to put the cups/wrappers/paper napkins in a garbage can instead of having them scattered throughout the store.  

Happy Friday

 Even though it has been gloomy, cloudy, and cool today, it has turned out to be a very happy Friday for me.  

First of all, the Old Man said he is feeling great, and wants to go out to our favorite Mexican restaurant this afternoon for supper. 

Second, I delivered two of my sunflower bottle cap boards to two friends today.  Each of them were so happy to get them, and they gave me big hugs in return.  That's all I can ask for.  On this dreary day, I know I made two people's day a little brighter.

New Product Review

 

At my weekly BSF meeting this morning, I started a coughing fit right in the middle of the opening prayer.  As soon as the prayer was over, my good friend Becky seated next to me handed me her little pack of Halls Minis for me to take.  I took two, and put one in my pocket in case I needed it later.  The Mini did the trick.  

They are so much easier than having a pack of regular sized Halls (or other brand) cough drops in your purse.  The plastic package was the size of an old school Tic Tac box.  

She said she had trouble finding them in the grocery store and in drugstores, so she bought some on Amazon.  So you can best believe as soon as I got home from BSF today I got on Amazon and bought a couple of packs.  

They definitely get the TWIT Seal Of Approval.  

Happy Veterans Day

 TWIT and I would like to wish everyone who served in the military a very happy Veterans Day, especially to my favorite veteran, the Old Man.  He proudly served in the Navy during the Korean War. 

Thank you all for your service.

Mullet Watch

 After getting gas at Kroger this a.m., I ran in to pick up two things I missed at my recent weekly shopping trip, and boy am I glad I did.  I spotted a first: husband and wife mullets.  I am assuming they were husband and wife, but they could have just been a couple, or just friends; regardless, each of them had a mullet.  Hers was peroxide blonde and curly in the back; his was gray, and slightly wavy in the back.  I have to say I sure was impressed. 

Whatever Happened To . . .

 Whatever happened to payday loan places?  Back in the day, there was at least one on every block in the entire city.  They were everywhere.  Now, I don't see any of them.  Most of the places that used to have a payday loan place is now a smoke shop, Mexican restaurant or nail place.  

My Faith Is Restored,, A Little

I had to take a friend to yet another eye doctor appointment this morning, and on the way to pick her up and then get back home, I saw 4 people taking down political signs in yards.  Normally, they stay out in the grass until they just down.  I compliment those people this morning.  

We All Know What Day This Is

 I am so thankful for nice weather today on Election Day.  And it does my old heart good to hear about long lines of people waiting to get in to vote.  Regardless of your political party, I am happy that people care enough about their country to get out and vote.  

Thank You, Daylight Savings Time

 TWIT and I would like to thank you, Daylight Savings Time, for an extra hour of sleep last night.  I went to bed at 10:00, which would have been at my normal 11:00, and slept until 8:00 this morning.  The Old Man did the same, too.  We are well rested and haven't napped today.

Welcome, November

 TWIT and I would like to welcome November.  Other than the three days of rain in October from the hurricane, October wasn't too bad.  We had beautiful and warm weather most of the month.  

We started out November a bit cool yesterday and today, but as I type this it is 63 here at The Compound,  I just want to keep on seeing the sunshine.  

Happy Halloween

 

Another Summer Day

 As I type this, it is 80 degrees here at The Compound and the sky is as blue as it could be.  We've been fortunate for almost three weeks we haven't had any rain.  The weatherazzi is calling for rain on Halloween night - unfortunate for the trick-or-treaters.  But as for us, we will enjoy this sunshine until it ends. 

Cousin Coincidence

 I know personally how friends and family will stretch the truth a bit and claim they are related to a famous person.  I also know personally two friends who are truly closely related to a famous person.  Both of them have very famous first cousins.  A friend of mine from ZCO is first cousin to the current famous Dodgers player Mookie Betts.  Another good friend of mine from my BSF group is first cousin to Johnny Depp.  I think that is way beyond cool. 

Sunday Updates

 It was a busy and stressful weekend here so far at The Compound.  I've got a lot on my plate right now (not intending to use an overused phrase) and it has been distracting me and causing me to not sleep well. 

I prayed about it last night, and asked friends to pray about it, and I feel better today.  Just hoping for a good, stress-free week for me and the Old Man.  That's all I can ask for. 

Flashback Friday

 Back in the 70s, there were lots of epic disaster movies - Airport, Earthquake, The Poseidon Adventure, and Towering Inferno to name a few.  Today, you don't need to spend $87 for a movie ticket to see disasters; all you need to do is turn on the nightly news. 

Current Overused Phrases

 1. Wheelhouse

2.  Digital Detox

3.  Food Desert

4.  Reach Out

5.  I Know, Right?

Quote Of The Century

 Overheard on a western movie the Old Man was watching this afternoon, and I quote:

"Anytime you own something, you got trouble."

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 Our streak of no rain and beautiful sunshine is continuing.  I just checked the forecast and the weatherazzi is calling for sunshine and rain for the next seven days.  We sure enjoy seeing the beautiful blue skies. 

Big Craft Project Update

 As of this morning, I have enough materials to make 9 more Big Crafts.  Luckily, the Big Craft Project has been cheap.  I'm still enjoying working on it every day - the painting part of the project is therapeutic, which is a plus.  It gives me something to do, and gives me satisfaction when I see the finished product. 

Stay tuned. 

Flashback Friday

 

The Old Man and I had hair cuts yesterday, and while we were there, The Best Hair Stylist In The World and I started reminiscing about hair trends from the 60s and 70s.  The first thing she mentioned was hair tape.  We shared a good laugh about it as we talked about women using it on their bangs and to keep their pin curls in place.  

As I was looking for a picture of the old school hair tape, I found out that it is still available today.  

Thursday, Thursday

This hasn't been the best of days for me, faithful readers.  I don't want to go into details, but suffice to say I've got a lot of pressure and a lot on my shoulders right now.  I spent some time tonight praying for guidance on how to handle a few situations that I have going on right now.  I am confident that I will get the answers I need. 

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 I was up at 5:00 this morning to take a friend to her cataract surgery, and when I got up it was 37 here at The Compound.  Frost was on the back porch ramp as I left, and you can rest assure I was walking carefully down it, not to slip.  The weatherazzi is calling for a freeze warning tonight.  I only hope that it does freeze and will kill all of the crap in the air making everybody sneeze.  

Monday Memories

I think of Gram a lot more this time every year because this was her favorite time of the year: the MLB playoffs.  She loved the New York Yankees, especially Reggie Jackson.  If the Yankees weren't in the playoffs, she would still watch the games.  But if the Yankees were playing, things would be different around here.  She would make sure supper was cooked early if the game was on in the afternoon when she would normally be cooking.  Her designated chair at the dining room table had a clear view of the TV so she could watch while she ate.  She would be especially happy right now with her beloved Yankees in the playoffs. And I have no doubt that she would have loved Derek Jeter.  

Weekend Update

 I've been pretty busy this weekend at The Compound.  I've spent a lot of time working on my BSF lessons and the Big Craft Project.  

We had another beautiful fall day today - was a bit windy but sunny and in the low 70s.  And as of now, no rain in the forecast for at least another week.  Can't ask for much more than that. 

Flashback Friday

 I for sure do miss the Clark Bar.  I had no idea they were no longer available until a few months ago when the Old Man asked me to look for some at the grocery store.  They make Clark Cups - a cross between the Clark Bar and a Reese Cup, but they just aren't the same.  So I guess we will continue to enjoy Butterfingers.  

Thursday Updates

 It's been a busy few days for me here at The Compound.  On Tuesday, I went to church for the Women's Missionary Union monthly meeting.  Then I came home and worked on  Big Craft Project.  I also spent an hour outside fortifying a piece of the garage where a hole had been dug out by Hogzilla.  Yesterday was my weekly BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) meeting, and once again, I came home and worked on the Big Craft Project.  I am happy to say that we haven't seen Hogzilla in two days.  And the Big Craft Project is coming along well.  

On a down note, the Old Man didn't have a good day.  He was up for an hour or two last night with acid reflux.  So that made him tired and unfortunately cranky today.  He just now said he thinks he is catching a cold.  Where he got it, I have no idea - I mask up when I go to the store, and wash my hands a bizillion times a day, and have been careful not to give him a hug or kiss on the head.  I'm praying it's just him still being tired from not much sleep last night.

Stay tuned. 

Big Craft Project Update

 This weekend, the Old Man was feeling pretty good, and went out to the garage and scrounged up some more boards for me to use for the Big Craft Project.  I don't know what I was happier about - the fact that he found some more boards, or the fact that he went out there and back without using his walker.  

I did some more painting, and nailed hangers to the back of three boards before I ran out of patience and came back in to the house.  But overall, I am happy with the progress and the crafts so far.  It took me 60 years to get the confidence to be crafty.  I think Gram and my Sweet Mother are proud. 

Stay tuned. 

Sunny Sunday

 It sure was good to see the sun shining all day long today, after the big Hurricane Helene mess we had a week ago.  It was almost 90 today - a bit warm for October, but we will take it with the sunshine.  The weatherazzi is calling for sunshine and no rain here for the next week.  I sure hope they are right.

Stay tuned. 

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 After Helene moved out early last week, we have had nothing but great weather here.  And there is no rain, and nothing but sunshine in the forecast for the next week.  For that, we are all thankful. v

Flashback Friday

 Grandma was a huge baseball fan, and she loved Reggie Jackson.  So she would root for whichever team Reggie was playing with at the time.  During the playoffs, she would even miss her favorite soap operas to watch the afternoon games. For the evening games, she'd get her bath early in order to be in her chair before the first pitch. 

Her son/the Old Man is a lot like her.   He has missed his beloved cowboy shows this week when the playoff games were on.   And in the evenings, he's in his recliner and raring to go while the pregame show is on.  And I've been watching the games right along with him in my recliner.  I think Grandma would be proud. 

Thursday Updates

 I've been pretty busy the past week working on the Big Craft Project.  I had to run to Hobby Lobby yesterday for more paint, and in the next few days I will need to visit Lowes, Home Depot, or 84 Lumber to see if they have scraps of boards.  If not, I will pull the trigger and buy a big board and have my neighbor and former boss up the road cut it down for me.  

Stay tuned. 

Happy National Taco Day

 I know I'm late posting, but TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy National Taco Day.  

The Old Man and I celebrated with homemade tacos tonight, and they were pretty darned good. 

It's not too late - you still have time to go to a Taco Bell near you and celebrate. 

Goodbye, Helene

 I know I speak for everyone in the U.S to say goodbye and good riddance to Helene. Nuff said. 

Happy National Coffee Day

 TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy National Coffee Day.  The Old Man and I are celebrating right now with our first cup of coffee.  

The only brand of coffee we have used for the past 15 or so years is plain old coffee from Gordon Food Service aka GFS.  It's kinda like a small-scale Sam's or Costco that just carries food and restaurant items.  It is without a doubt the best coffee we have ever tasted.  I'd put it up against $$$$ coffee from Starbucks or any other coffee shop. Try it.  You'll thank me later. 

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 The rain eased up, and here at The Compound, we only got about half an inch of rain since yesterday morning.  It's cloudy now, and light rain is expected. But for the most part, Helene has moved out. For that we are thankful. 

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 We are in Day 2 of rain from Hurricane Helene.  The rain total for the past 24 hours is 3.65 inches for our zip code.

I've taken advantage of this weather by being constructive: yesterday, I cleaned the kitchen and mopped the kitchen floor.  Today's rainy day plans include working on my Big  Craft Project. 

Stay tuned, and stay dry. 

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 It started raining early early this morning, and hasn't stopped yet.  As of noon today, it is still raining and it is big time windy.  The weatherazzi is still calling for 4+ inches of rain when the remnants of Helene moves through on Monday.  

Stay tuned. 

The Calm Before The Storm

 As I type this, the sun is shining brightly at our Old Kentucky Home, and there isn't a cloud in the sky. Unfortunately, remnants of Hurricane Helene will arrive tomorrow and stay a few days. I have a couple of outdoor chores that need to be done, so I will take advantage of today's good weather.

Stay tuned.

Get Ready

 The Weatherazzi is starting to get all worked up over the rain coming in the next few days.  Some are saying we'll get 2-3 inches.  We sure do need the rain, but not all at once.  I'm getting prepared - I'm going to the grocery store tomorrow instead of my usual Saturday morning so I won't be out in it.  Bring it on.  I have plenty of work on the Big Craft Project to keep me busy for the next few days. 

Just In Case

We had a pretty good storm roll through here early this morning at about 5:00.  For the last 45 minutes, we've heard the tornado warning sirens going off.  Luckily for us here at The Compound, the tornado warning is for the central and west part of the county and not us.  But I am thankful that the county keeps those sirens in good working order just in case.  

Monday, Monday

It has been a fairly quiet, peaceful Monday so far.  I went to my credit union [during customer appreciation week] and made some changes and got a cool Kentucky themed tea towel.  And got a bag of popcorn, a pack of Oreos and a bottle of water to boot.  

I have been with this credit union since I started at ZCO in 1989, and on each and every time have been there I have had nothing but great customer service.  That makes me happy.  

Welcome, Fall

 I am happy that Fall came in to us today not in full force.  The temps were way lower than the past week.  And we had about 2 minutes of rain today, which we will gladly take. 

Now I'm just waiting for my Annie's Pizza to be delivered so me and the Old Man can get our feed on.  

Leave, Already

 I just want to let summer know that it can leave already.  The past week has had highs in the low to mid 90's.  Enough already.  And we could use a little rain, too.  Everything is all dried up.  I'm not ready for snow and ice but I would like some cooler temps.  Nuff said.  

Flashback Friday

 

Can't Have Nothing

 While most people gravitate toward old school canned chicken noodle soup, my favorite is French onion soup.  Up until a month ago, I could get it a my Kroger.  But for the past month, I've been in three different Krogers and two different WalMarts and neither of them have the Progresso nor Campbell's French onion soup.  I just did a quick search at Meijer, and was happy to see that the store a few minutes from me carries Progresso and Campbell's.  You can bet I will be going there tomorrow to stock up.  

Covid 19 Update

 We found out yesterday afternoon that the Old Man's Cousin Cathy has Covid. It is especially hard on her as her husband was just moved from the hospital [where he was for two weeks after he had a seizure and fell and cracked his head] to a rehab facility.  As of last night, he has tested negative, thank goodness. 

Mask up, faithful readers, and stay safe. 

Covid 19 Update

 This is a flashback to spring of 2020.  I heard that a neighbor has Covid.  That's three friends in the past few days that have caught it.  I haven't been around her for a few months, so I'm safe there.  

I'm still not ashamed to say that I mask up every time I go out, and have been diligently masking up for the past few months.  I'm still thankful that I haven't caught it and even more thankful that the Old Man hasn't caught it.

Stay safe.  

Covid 19 Update

 I got a report about another friend who just tested positive for Covid.  This is the first time he's had it.  Like Diva Stacy, he was cautious and conscientious for the past four and a half years. I heard that he said he feels like he's been hit by a huge dump truck.  TWIT and I wish him a very speedy and complete recovery.

On a related note, for the past few weeks, I have been masking up when I go out.  And I will continue to do so. 

No. Just No

I went to Hobby Lobby today for more supplies for the Big Craft Project, and had to stand there in the middle of the store and just look around at how they had a fourth of the store all set out with Christmas decorations.  It's not even Halloween.  Hell, it's not even officially fall yet. This is just wrong.  

Covid 19 Update

 TWIT and I would like to wish Diva Stacy a fast and complete recovery from Covid. For four and a half years, she was without a doubt the most cautious and conscientious person I know.

Get well soon, Diva Stacy. 

This Is For The Birds

 For as long as I can remember, my entire family has been into watching the birds.  We've always had bird feeders, bird baths and bird houses out in the yard.  This spring and summer, we've been especially enjoying watching the little finches out on our finch feeder.  They are such cool little birds - hanging upside down on the feeder to get their small thistle seed.  The slots for their feed on the feeder are too small for even sparrows to eat, so the finches have it all to themselves.  

I inherited this love of the birds from my Sweet Mother.  From my viewpoint in my LazyBoy, I can see out the French doors and have a perfect view of the finch feeder and the regular bird feeder.  It's the small things like this in life that bring peace and happiness.  

Big Craft Project Update

 I worked yesterday afternoon for a few hours on the Big Craft Project.  I made some good progress. Through trial and error I've learned a lot.  One big thing I've learned is that I have high expectations and have a tendency to pick out projects that end up being more complicated than I thought.  But I am sticking with this Big Craft Project. 

Stay tuned. 

Tuesday Updates

 My Favorite Cousin and her Dear Husband visited us this weekend, and we were busy cramming a lot of fun into just two days, so I didn't have time to post.  Shortly after they left yesterday, I commenced on a Big Craft Project I have been planning.  I had good intentions of starting it last year, and even went so far as buying some things needed for the project.  But I got sidetracked until this week.  Actually, I started two weeks ago with getting some supplies at Hobby Lobby, and enlisting the help of a friend up the road who is doing the wood cutting that I need.  I did some preliminary painting yesterday and as I post this I am going to get back to my painting.  

Stay tuned for a picture of the finished project soon [if it doesn't turn out like something a three-year old would make in Vacation Bible School.]

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 After over a week with highs in the 90s, today is sure welcome - as I type this, it's 55 and breezy, and today's high is expected to be only 70.  I will for sure take it. 

Flashback Friday

 This was my first taste of pizza. 

Welcome Back, NFL

 TWIT and I would like to welcome back the NFL.  The first game of the season is tonight with the Ravens hopefully beating the Chiefs.  As soon as I post this I am going to change into my Lamar Jackson t-shirt.  I am still a big Titans fan, even though they haven't won many games the past few seasons.

Back To BSF

 After a four month summer break, I was back at my BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) group meeting this morning.  

I will make this post short and sweet - I can't begin to say how much it filled my heart that every one of my friends that I saw today all asked how the Old Man was doing.  You can't ask for much better friends than that.  

More Labor On The Day After Labor Day

 I've labored quite a bit today on the day after Labor Day.  After getting breakfast for the Old Man, I made a pot of chili [that he requested]. After cleaning up after my chili was made, I went through the house and threw out some things that needed throwing out.  Then I went out and did my chicken chores.  To get a break, I went to Walgreens to pick up a prescription for the Old Man.  Then back at home, I did a repair job on our wooden "taters and onion" box.  Now I am taking another break and doing what I love to do every day -- read.  

Happy Labor Day

TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a happy Labor Day.  I hope you don't have to labor very much today.  As for me, the most labor I plan to do today is fix hamburgers for supper and take the garbage can out to the curb.  

Mullet Watch

 The Old Man and I were watching a rodeo last night from Idaho, close to the Canadian border, and their Mullet Cam focused in on a father and son mullet.  I have to say I was impressed.  The son was young, maybe 6 or 7, and they both had the party-in-the-back down to their shoulders.  That is something you don't get to see every day.

Success

 I got the alleged heavy-duty 3M hangers yesterday afternoon.  I put one hanger on the wall, and let it set until this morning.  After breakfast I put the plaque on there, and as of now as of almost 2:00 it is hanging.  I think we have success.

As always, stay tuned. 

So Much For That

After hanging the aforementioned plaque using a 3M hanger, it fell down after about 5 minutes.  So I went to plan C - I put two of the hangers side-by-side, in hopes that two would be stronger than one.  We waited a few hours for them to set, instead of the recommended 30 minutes.  I hung the plaque, only to have the plaque fall once again after about 10 minutes.  Now we are going to plan D. I got on Amazon and bought the same hangers but these are supposedly for pictures and plaques up to 2 pounds.  They are supposed to be here today.

Stay tuned. 

I Need A Nap

 Yesterday, the Old Man and I decided we needed to rearrange some of the many framed pictures he has on his table by his LazyBoy.  One thing led to another, and he wanted to take down a plaque on a wall and replace with an awesome framed picture of a Loon, and then put the plaque underneath it.  Easier said than done. 

He and I spent an hour this morning trying (key word) to put in a small nail for the plaque.  It was not happening.  He and I took turns hammering but the nail was just not going in.  So after an hour of frustration, I went to Dollar General up the road and got some hand 3M hooks.  Perfect.  

We feel like we need a nap now after that carpentry work.  No shame in that for retirees. 

Happy National Waffle Day

TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy National Waffle Day.  

The United States will celebrate National Waffle Day as it does every year on Aug. 24. Unlike some fun food holidays, however, there’s a historical reason for marking this particular date. It commemorates the day in 1869 when Cornelius Swartwout was awarded the first U.S. patent for the waffle iron, which made it much easier to cook the breakfast favorite.

The Old Man and I are celebrating with waffles and piggy sausages this morning.  I hope you are able to do the same.

Public Service Announcement

 TWIT and I would like to give a public service announcement to you, faithful readers.  

Summer is the time for fresh produce from the garden or the stores, and unfortunately when you have fresh produce out on the counter ripening, it is also the time for those annoying little gnats. I discovered a sure-fire way to get rid of those tiny pesky pests:  put a few ounces of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and add 3 or 4 drops of dish detergent.   

I put out two bowls in the kitchen - one on the dining room table, and one on the counter top where we keep our fruits and veggies, and when I got up this morning, there were half a dozen of the gnats floating in each bowl.  I am proof positive that this home remedy works.

Thanks Again, Mother Nature

 TWIT and I would like to thank Mother Nature again for more cool weather.  When I got up this morning it was 56 degrees and sunny. Today's expected high is 74 with very low humidity.  The weather has been awesome for all of the bizillion fair goers.  

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 Here in the south, this cool spell we're having could be known as Blackberry Winter.  The high yesterday was 80; this morning when I got up it was 66 and now as I type this, it is only 74 and a bit windy, which makes it feel a bit cooler.  When I went out this morning to check on Large Marge, I am not ashamed to say if I'd been outside longer I would have came in and put on a long sleeved shirt.  We will for sure take this cool weather as long as we can. 

Weekend Update

 Saturday was a crazy day, faithful readers.  I went to Kroger at about noon, like I do every Saturday.  I was in the self check-out that was close to the store's entrance, and heard a big commotion.  I looked up and a big guy was freaking going off on the off-duty LMPD officer.  Apparently it was a beef between the guy and the officer.  I was finishing checking out when I heard one of them say "Let's take this outside."  I immediately thought game on, homes.  I headed for the door when the manager came over the intercom and said "For the safety of our customers, please stay inside the store."  I just shook my head.  I looked out and the drama was out in the parking lot - a few parking spots away from where I parked.  But after a couple of minutes, the guy drove off and we were able to get to our cars.  All I can say it was crazy. 

Flashback Friday

 The Kentucky State Fair started yesterday.  I think it's pretty cool that this is the 120th state fair, and that Kentucky has 120 counties.  But I digress.  I can't help but think back to my trips to the fair and what fun I had.  

I would usually go at least a couple of times during the ten-day run of the fair.  The 'Rents and I would go one day; if the family next door went, they would take me with them.  Later on, I would go two or three times to see the free concerts.  When The 'Rents lost interest in the fair, Diva Stacy and I would go, usually on opening day. 

It's been five years since I've been to the fair. The only thing I really miss about not going to the fair is the food.  Corn dogs never tasted as good as they were at the fair.  

Mullet Watch

 The Old Man and I were watching a rodeo last night from Utah, and during a break between the events, the rodeo clown announced he had found the best mullet in the arena.  The camera followed the clown to the mullet, and I was surprised that it was a little boy.  It was a sure enough good mullet - long and wavy blonde.  And let me add that neither the boy's father or mother had a mullet. 

Thank You, Garbage Man

 The Old Man and I would like to thank Hometown Hauling for being so quiet this morning when they emptied our garbage can.  Normally, they are loud because, well, it's a big truck with the arm that comes out and grabs onto the garage can and dumps it into the truck.  This morning, we slept in a bit because they were so quiet and didn't wake us up.

Keep up the good work, Hometown Hauling.  

Sorry For The Delay

 I apologize for not posting in a couple of days; I've been preoccupied with a craft project.  The preliminary part of the project involved a trip to Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree, and Lowes, as well as multiple trips to the garage and basement.  I was able to find a piece of paneling in the garage, and after measuring it, I got out my old school graph paper and started measuring and seeing how many pieces of the board I can get from the paneling.  A friend up the road is going to cut the paneling when I finalize the size I will need.  Later this morning, I am going to officially start the Phase 1 of the project: painting.

I will give updates on The Project, but will not tell what it is until I get one made that doesn't look like a three year old made it, 

Stay tuned. 

Thanks For The Break

 For the past 4 or 5 days, we were back in the 90's with high humidity and with the heat index in the low 100s.  It's almost noon as I type this and it is only 78 degrees, with a forecasted high of only 82.  For this break, we are all thankful. 

Update On The Old Man

The Old Man had his six-month checkup with his PCP this morning, and we are both happy as can be with the good news.  His kidney numbers are stable, which is a big answer to a lot of prayers.  And the doctor took him off of one of his meds that he had to take four times a day.  Thank you again, Lord, for watching over the Old Man.  

Monday, Monday

 The day started out well for me and the Old Man.  We both slept good last night, and weren't having much arthritis pain today.  Until the cable went out.  That happened at about 10:00.  I was anticipating a long, eerily quiet afternoon, but thank goodness the cable came back on about a half hour ago.  The Old Man is happy. And that means I am happy. 

Sleepy Sunday

 It's not even lunchtime as I type this, but the Old Man and I are both ready for a nap.  We were awaken at 3:30 aka O'Dark-Thirty to the sound of a police car siren.  We both said we tried to go back to sleep, but at about 4:00, we heard what we think was the police talking very loudly over their radio.  I got up to look out my bedroom window and didn't see anything.  I went to the living room and looked out the big picture window and still didn't see anything.  The Old Man said he got up to look when he heard the loud radio, and saw the police car two doors down at the old little store. Needless to say, we both said we tossed and turned until we got up at 8:00. 

I hope we can stay awake while watching our church's live-streaming service this a.m.  

Score Saturday

 Disclaimer:  My Favorite Cousin does not follow TWIT, so she has no idea about what I am getting ready to post. That having been said, I was looking on FB this a.m. and saw a post from our local hood about a yard sale today.  They had lots of chicken and rooster items - huge figurines, canister sets, etc.  I didn't hesitate to drive out there to buy a couple of them for my Favorite Cousin for Christmas, and got something for my neighbor.  Score.  

Flashback Friday

 When I was a kid, during the summer school break, every Friday morning I would go with our neighbor Muggs aka Alice to her weekly beauty parlor appointment.  I was just up the road in a small shopping center. While she would get her hair done (old school beauty parlor lingo) I would walk down to Taylor Drugstore or the cool TG&Y store where I would check out the toy aisles and best of all, the record section.  If I wasn't in the mood to window shop, I would sit in the waiting area and read a comic book. But I digress.  The best part of the weekly Friday morning trip would be going to get lunch afterward. We would either go to McDonalds or to my favorite burger place The Red Barn. 

The Red Barn was (you guessed it) built like an old school red barn.  What made this my favorite burger place was the burger toppings bar they had.  Granted, it could no way compare to the toppings bar at WW Cousin's or Max and Erma's but for the late 60s/early 70s it was pretty cutting edge. They only had a few toppings - dill pickle slices, tomato slices, onion, mustard, mayo and ketchup.  But I liked how I could fix my own burger.

Needless to say, the Red Barn has been long gone, but that beauty parlor is still there and in business.

Whatever Happened To . . . ?

 While I was driving to the Far East yesterday morning to get some concealer from a cosmetics store in a huge mega mall, I started thinking about how there are hardly any more Merle Norman cosmetics stores around.  Back in the day, there was one in every shopping center and strip mall.  I did some quick research, and found that there are 8 stores in the state of Kentucky, and 8 left in Indiana.  

I don't think I ever bought anything from Merle Normans; I was a Lancome girl back in the day.  But a friend's mother owned and managed one locally, and if I was in that shopping center, I would stop in to say hi to her. 

Just a little something to think about.

Farewell, July

 Farewell, July.  I hope August is fairly calm like you were.  But you are sure going out with a bang - it has been storming like a son of a gun for the last 40 minutes here at The Compound.  We have been praying for no lightning to hit our neighbors trees, which would result in the limbs falling on our house or garage. 

Stay tuned. 

Life Day Pedicure Review

I was able to go this afternoon and get my Life Day pedicure, and let me say for the record, I am hooked. 

I didn't want any nail polish - I just wanted my toenails trimmed. They did not disappoint. I'm not sure which part I enjoyed the most - having my feet in the massaging water,  for half an hour or having my feet and legs massaged.  They even massaged my old arthritic knees. 

This afternoon, I could definitely feel a difference in my 61 year old feet and legs.  I felt like I could walk a few miles if it hadn't been raining. 

I fo sho will be back to see them.  

Monday, Monday

 It's a blah Monday here at The Compound.  Nothing is wrong with me or the Old Man; it's just a blah day with off and on rain every since early morning.  So while it is as humid as all get out and raining off and on, we are inside in air conditioned comfort in our Lazy-Boy recliners cheering on the USA men's gymnastic team in the Olympics.  Can't think of a better way to spend a humid, rainy afternoon [other than taking a nap.]

Life Day Addendum

One of my good friends from BSF, her husband and their wonder dog Waffles came today to visit and treat us to lunch. We'd planned for them to get here at noon, and after we visited for an hour, she and I would go up to our favorite Mexican restaurant and get carryout. But we all four got carried away talking and playing with Waffles and forgot about the time, so it was about 2:00 when she and I headed up Greenwood. We got close to PRP High School and noticed police cars in the median. We passed there and when we got to Greenwood Elementary, we saw about two dozen police cars in the front parking lot of the school. I noticed police were looking inside a small gray car with the doors open. We both thought that maybe it was just police training. Then on our way back home from the restaurant, we saw that the police were still there, and saw the yellow police line tape around the area where the car was. Last night, I got online to order something from Amazon, I happened to check a local TV station's FB page, and saw that shortly after 1:00, police were called to Greenwood Elementary, responding to a car crash. When they arrived, they found that gray car crashed into a utility pole with the driver shot to death. After I read that, I thanked the Lord for safety and protection, and for leading us to visit a bit longer or else we would have possibly been going through there at the time the driver was shot and crashed into the pole. I'm not over-exaggerating this; if my BSF friend was on FB she would tell the same story.

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Happy Life Day

Happy Life Day to me! It's hard to believe that it is my Life Day again - the year has flown by. For those that don't know about it, today is my Life Day - on this day in 1992, I was almost killed in a car wreck. But the Lord had other plans for me. So on this day every year, I celebrate my Life Day.

Every Life Day, I celebrate by doing something different or new, and this Life Day is no exception: I am getting my first pedicure.

Happy Life Day to me.

New Product Review

 

For dessert last night, the Old Man and I tried the new Little Debbie Nutty Bars.  They did not disappoint.  The chocolate covered vanilla ice cream bars are covered with crushed up Nutty Buddy Bars. You could actually tell the little pieces on the chocolate were Nutty Buddy.  The only negative thing I could find is that there are only four bars in a box.

Nutty Bars receive two thumbs up, and definitely receives the TWIT Seal of Approval. 

National Ice Cream Day Update

 It seems that during his time as President, Ronald Regan declared July as National Ice Cream Month.  To keep up with this, I just bought a box of Little Debbie Nutty Buddy Ice Cream Bars on a quick trip to Kroger.  We will be having one later tonight after supper.   Stay tuned for a review.  

Monday, Monday

As I look around and see what is going on in our city, state, country and world, all I can think of is something my Sweet Mother would say, and I quote:  "It's a sad situation."

Happy National Ice Cream Day

 TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy National Ice Cream Day.  It's early in the day, so you have plenty of time to get some ice cream to celebrate.  The Old Man and I will be having peach ice cream tonight after supper.  

Non-Mullet Watch

 When I was at Kroger this morning, I didn't see any mullets but I did see probably the best big Afro hair-do I have seen since watching Soul Train back in the day.  It was without a doubt the biggest Afro I have ever seen.  I'm sorry I didn't have time to get my phone out of my purse to take a picture.  

Flashback Friday

 

Flashback to this day in 2006 when I saw Reba McEntire in Las Vegas.  This was no ordinary concert; it was a fundraiser for Habitat For Humanity, and I splurged for the VIP package - the main part was sitting on the stage during her performance.  It's still hard to believe I was sitting literally a few yards away from her on stage.  

Thankful Thursday

 I am very thankful for today's high was only in the upper 70's today.  And it was sunny and clear all day long.  For that, I am thankful. 

Happy National Lottery Day

 TWIT and I would like to wish you, faithful readers, a very happy National Lottery Day.  I celebrated by winning $7 on a $1 scratch-off lottery ticket.  

If any of you buy a lottery ticket today, I sure hope you have good luck I did. 

Welcome To The Flock

 Chicken lover that I am, this picture just captured my heart.  It's the step-grandson of my Cuz down in Alabama holding his family's pet chicken he named Hay Hay.  The hen looks almost as happy as he does.  

In times like these, we all could use some happiness.  

Mullet Watch

 While shopping at Kroger this morning, I spotted a first in Mullet Watch: a two-tone femme-mullet.  It was half gray and half red.  It was long and flowing, too.  I wish I'd had time to take a picture of this one.  It was epic.  

Flashback Friday

My favorite novelty songs from the 70's.  In no particular order, except for the song in the #1 spot. 

1. Hot Rod Lincoln

2. Amos Moses

3. Convoy

4. Bertha Butt Boogie

5. Troglodytes

6. Sister May Elephant

7. Wacky Weed

8. My Ding-A-Ling

9. Spiders And Snakes

10. Shaving Cream

Update From The Compound

 We've had something crazy going here at The Compound for the past week.  Large Marge is broody (we think) and has been in one of the nesting boxes almost all of the time.  I say "almost" because I see where the level in the feeder is lower every day, and the waterer level is also lower.  So I know she's getting up out of the nesting box to eat and drink.   

I go out every morning to check on her, and the past two mornings when I opened up the door to the nesting box, she has gotten very agitated and squalked at me.  I think that's a good sign, hoping she's agitated at me interrupting her brooding. 

She's 7 and a half years old, and that is old for a hen.  But I think she has the will to hang with us a while longer. 

Stay tuned.  

Sunny Saturday

 We had storms for the past three days, and we are very happy to have a sunny Saturday with 0% chance of rain. There was a confirmed tornado in the west end here in the 'Ville and just across the river in Indiana two days ago. That Indiana county got slammed again yesterday with another bad storm.

We will be able to enjoy a peaceful weekend.  

War Update

 I went out yesterday morning to spray my ground hog repellant, only to find one of the ground hogs facing me.  He was a young one, and didn't scare off when I stomped and yelled.  But I continued to spray, and am hoping it will work.  

Stay tuned.

Troublesome Tuesday

 We've got trouble here at The Compound - Trouble with a capital T that rhymes with G and stands for groundhogs.  

A young groundhog scared the pooh out of me when I was out changing batteries on the security camera on the barn. I noticed they had dug a new hole by the ramp going into the garage.  I heard something and looked around and it was poking its head out of the hole.  I don't know who was more scared - them or me.  Then a week later a groundhog ran out from underneath the back porch ramp. And one of them has been by the carport.  This has got to stop. 

I did some research and found that ammonia is a deterrent, so I've been buying a few bottles every week at Dollar Tree and pour it around the barn, in their holes, around the back porch ramp and now in front of the carport.  The ammonia seems to help a bit.  The Old Man told me not to fill in their holes because they will only dig new ones.

I'm waiting for a call back from the Department of Wildlife, hoping they can give me some advice.

Stay tuned.  

Monday, Monday

 I was very disappointed that I didn't see any mullets at Kroger on Saturday nor at Meijer yesterday.  I had high hopes.  Maybe I will spot one today when I go to the drugstore to pick up one of the Old Man's prescriptions.

Stay tuned. 

Mullet Watch

 This has been a record week for mullet sightings.  I spotted a perfectly styled long gray mullet this morning as I was pulling out of a shopping center parking lot.  He was coming out of Harbor Freight. It was one of the better mullets I've seen over the years. 

Mullet Watch

 I ran to Dollar General Store this morning, and I spotted an awesome femme-mullet.  It was peroxide blonde, and all business in the front and a lot of party in the back.  I could tell she spent quite a while getting it ready for her trip to the store. 

Enough, Already

 I cannot begin to tell you how disgusted and sick I am over hearing nothing but Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.  I am not a "Swiftie" but I will say she is a pretty good role model for the teenage girls.  But I am sick of seeing a bizillion links about her and Travis.   Every morning when I log on to check my AOL email, all I see are posts about them.  Enough already.  I'm done. 

Here We Go Again

 After a "cool" day yesterday (the high was only 87) the heat wave continues.  The weatherazzi is calling for highs in the mid to upper 90s for the next few days. On a non-related note, Christmas is six months from today.  

Ohio Valley Weather Update

 For the past two weeks, we've been smack dab in the middle of a wicked heat wave, with highs in the upper 90's.  It's been so hot, the Old Man hasn't complained about the a/c being too cold.  

A miracle happened this morning - we got a small bit of rain, and as of 11:00 this morning, it's only 77 degrees.  And the weatherazzi says the high today will be "only" 87.  I'll believe it when I see it. 

Mullet Watch

 This young mullet was spotted yesterday by Diva Stacy at an indoor trampoline park.  This young lad has the makings of a great full-grown mullet.  

UK Update

I am sorry to report that the Wildcats lost last night's game to the Aggies.  But they are still in the tournament - they play Florida tonight.  TWIT and I wish the Cats the best of luck.  

Good Luck, Wildcats

 TWIT and I would like to wish the UK Wildcats good luck as they play Texas A&M in the NCAA baseball tournament later today.  

For anyone that wants to watch, the coverage starts at 6:00 on ESPN.

Go Cats!!

Ridge Rules

 TWIT and I would like to congratulate the Pleasure Ridge Park Panthers as they are the 2024 Kentucky State High School baseball champions.  They beat McCracken County 4-1.  This is an impressive 7th state championship title for the Panthers.  

Ridge Rules!

Way To Go, PRP

 TWIT and I would like to congratulate the PRP Panthers on their win over Trinity today in the high school baseball final four game.  They beat the Shamrocks 7-6.  Tomorrow afternoon they will play McCracken County.  We wish them all the luck.  

Ridge Rules. 

Good Luck, PRP Panthers

 TWIT and I would like to wish the best of luck to the Pleasure Ridge Park Panthers in the Kentucky state baseball final four tournament tomorrow morning.  The game starts at 10:00 in Lexington.  The Panthers will face another Louisville team, the Trinity Shamrocks. 

I will proudly wear my "Ridge Rules" t-shirt tomorrow.  

This Means War

I went out to the garage yesterday to get something from the freezer and lo and behold, as soon as I got out on the porch, I saw Hogzilla standing on the dirt pile that we have in the back yard [to fill in the big sink hole].  The varmint was standing on his hind legs, as if to say "I'm king of the mountain."  I immediately got a gallon of ammonia and poured it all around the dirt pile, and also poured some around the perimeter of the barn.  Ammonia is supposedly (key word) a deterrent for ground hogs.  We'll see.

Stay tuned.  

Kentucky and PRP Sports Updates

 I am very happy to report updates from the UK Wildcats and the PRP Panthers on their baseball tournaments. 

On Saturday, UK plays North Carolina State.  On Friday, PRP plays local Trinity.  

I have my PRP and UK t-shirts ready to wear on Friday and Saturday, and hopefully in more days ahead.

Go Cats, Go Panthers.  

Way To Go Panthers And Wildcats

 TWIT and I would like to congratulate the Pleasure Ridge Park Panthers and the UK Wildcats on their big wins yesterday.  PRP is one win away from going to the state final four, and UK is one win away from going to the college world series.

Keep up the great teamwork, guys.  

Good Luck, PRP

 TWIT and I would like to wish the Pleasure Ridge Park Panthers good luck tonight in the regional finals for baseball.  If I hadn't gone to a private school, I would have gone to PRP so I still consider myself a proud panther.  

We are PRP Proud here at The Compound.   Go Panthers!

Flashback Friday

 When I was a kid, once a month a semi with a trailer would come to a local shopping center parking lot, and would take aluminum cans and newspapers to recycle.  It was a pretty easy way to get some extra money.  They had a huge scale and would weigh the newspapers and aluminum and then would pay you out.  

Every summer when the Catholic picnic season was going on, an old family friend named Dot would take me and her two sons [who were like brothers to me] to the picnics on Friday and Saturday nights, and me and the boys would walk around carrying garbage bags and would pick up the empty beer cans.  Believe me when I tell you there were always a lot. My Grandpa made a can crusher, and the week after the picnic I would be out in the garage crushing the cans.  Then either my Sweet Mother or the Old Man would load up the trunk of the car with my bags and newspapers and take me up to the recycling truck.  

They paid so much per pound for the aluminum and newspapers, and every so often you could spin the wheel and get extra per pound.  As a kid, this was like the big jackpot wheel on the Price Is Right.  

Thankful Thursday

 I am very thankful today.  First, for a friend that I took to the doctor today.  She's been having major issues for the past few weeks since she was put on meds, and it has affected her walking and stability.  The doctor today recommended doubling up on one of the meds that will hopefully help this issue.  

I am also thankful for an old time friend from church, who had some issues and a fall and had to go to rehab for a few weeks.  He's been home now  a week and says he feels much better and stronger.

I am also thankful that the Old Man felt like going out to eat yesterday afternoon.  He's 90, and I know he has aches and pains in his back and hip, but he felt good yesterday and we had a great supper out at our favorite Mexican place. 

I am also thankful for my retirement fund from ZCO.  I can't say this enough.

I am also thankful for my LazyBoy recliner, which I think I will get into in a few minutes with a cup of coffee.  

Wet Wednesday

 The last time the Old Man and I had haircuts, it was raining.  When we went to his cardiologist's appointment in December, it was on a rainy Wednesday.  When we went to his primary care doctor's appointment in February, it was on a rainy Wednesday.  When we went to the heart failure center appointment last month . . . yes, you guessed it - it was on a rainy Wednesday.  We have haircuts later this morning, and true to form, it is a rainy Wednesday.  Enough, already. 

It's The Little Things

 They say it's the little things that make us happy, and I have to agree. 

I got a new set of towels, wash cloths, and hand towels for me and the Old Man.  Our favorite towels were getting worn out so we said it was time for new ones. We tried them today and we could not be more pleased.  The main thing is that they are so soft. And they look nice in our bathrooms.  Yep, it's the little things in life that make us happy. 

My Favorite Day Of The Year

Ode To Billy Joe 

It was the third of June, another sleepy, dusty Delta day
I was out choppin' cotton and my brother was balin' hay
And at dinner time we stopped and we walked back to the house to eat
And mama hollered at the back door "y'all remember to wipe your feet"
And then she said she got some news this mornin' from Choctaw Ridge
Today Billie Joe MacAllister jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge

Papa said to mama as he passed around the blackeyed peas
"Well, Billie Joe never had a lick of sense, pass the biscuits, please"
"There's five more acres in the lower forty I've got to plow"
Mama said it was shame about Billie Joe, anyhow
Seems like nothin' ever comes to no good up on Choctaw Ridge
And now Billie Joe MacAllister jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge

And brother said he recollected when he and Tom and Billie Joe
Put a frog down my back at the Carroll County picture show
And wasn't I talkin' to him after church last Sunday night?
"I'll have another piece of apple pie, you know it just don't seem right"
"I saw him at the sawmill yesterday on Choctaw Ridge"
"And now you tell me Billie Joe's jumped off the Tallahatchie Bridge"

Mama said to me "Child, what's happened to your appetite?"
"I've been cookin' all morning and you haven't touched a single bite"
"That nice young preacher, Brother Taylor, dropped by today"
"Said he'd be pleased to have dinner on Sunday, oh, by the way"
"He said he saw a girl that looked a lot like you up on Choctaw Ridge"
"And she and Billie Joe was throwing somethin' off the Tallahatchie Bridge"

A year has come 'n' gone since we heard the news 'bout Billie Joe
Brother married Becky Thompson, they bought a store in Tupelo
There was a virus going 'round, papa caught it and he died last Spring
And now mama doesn't seem to want to do much of anything
And me, I spend a lot of time pickin' flowers up on Choctaw Ridge

And drop them into the muddy water off the Tallahatchie Bridge