While carrying out groceries for a lady the other day at the Burg Grocery, she informed me that we would be moving slowly as she just had knee surgery.
It wasn't due to anything as exciting as a ski accident, but, evidently just plain old wear and tear on the body. I had mentioned that so far I was fortunate at my age that hip or knee surgery was not necessary. In our discussion, I felt it was usually due to genetics, weight, and/or hard work.
The next thing I knew she said something like "Yes, when I was younger I would start out about 8 in the morning and start moving these railroad ties--" That's when I stopped her in mid-sentence and had her start over. She and her husband had a landscape business and moved a lot of those heavy pieces in her day! No wonder! Maybe since I was a 135 pound weakling, some of these surgeries won't be necessary. Stay tuned!
Thursday, March 26, 2015
THE DIVIDER LADY!
Most grocery store check-out lanes have rubber/plastic dividers, so that when checking out one can let the checker know where one person's stuff starts and ends. Most people, I have observed, do not use these and the checker is constantly having to figure out where someone's groceries begin and end.
The other day at the Burg Grocery a lady was checking out and had divided her own grocery items into three different groupings and using the rubber grey dividers. It obviously confused the checker somewhat, and, of course, made me burst out laughing. She did this maneuver, she later explained, so she could divide items by frozen, cold and so forth.
Again, little things seem to amuse me. And, it seems when you think you have seen it all just hang on!
The other day at the Burg Grocery a lady was checking out and had divided her own grocery items into three different groupings and using the rubber grey dividers. It obviously confused the checker somewhat, and, of course, made me burst out laughing. She did this maneuver, she later explained, so she could divide items by frozen, cold and so forth.
Again, little things seem to amuse me. And, it seems when you think you have seen it all just hang on!
WHAT'S WITH MEN'S SUITS?
This past week a young man came into the Burg Grocery wearing what looked like a suit. Keep in mind that it is unusual to see anybody "formally" dressed in this small town. Even when living in a larger town like Marshalltown a few years ago it was getting to be a rare site.
What made this vision unusual and funny at the same time was the cut, color, size, and shape of the suit. First of all, the color of the suit was a royal blue and at the same time it fit so tight and cut high, he looked like something Pee Wee Herman might wear or maybe he put it in the washer and dryer by mistake and it shrunk down a few sizes.
Watching T. V., I know that men's suit's are cut much smaller. In my time, if you wore a suit that was cut like that it meant you bought a really cheap suit. Most all suits you see on T.V. are extremely plain with very narrow and plain ties. You might call it the 1950's look to an extreme.
One more fashion observation of men's styles is that while men's suits have shrunk down in size, basketball uniforms are still extremely baggy and hanging way down below the knee. Don't get me started on some of these young p--ks wearing their jeans below hip level!
What made this vision unusual and funny at the same time was the cut, color, size, and shape of the suit. First of all, the color of the suit was a royal blue and at the same time it fit so tight and cut high, he looked like something Pee Wee Herman might wear or maybe he put it in the washer and dryer by mistake and it shrunk down a few sizes.
Watching T. V., I know that men's suit's are cut much smaller. In my time, if you wore a suit that was cut like that it meant you bought a really cheap suit. Most all suits you see on T.V. are extremely plain with very narrow and plain ties. You might call it the 1950's look to an extreme.
One more fashion observation of men's styles is that while men's suits have shrunk down in size, basketball uniforms are still extremely baggy and hanging way down below the knee. Don't get me started on some of these young p--ks wearing their jeans below hip level!
Saturday, March 14, 2015
A MARCH STORM & SOME LUCK!
It was March in the early 1980's and we decided to give Aspen , Colorado a try for the Spring Break and a little down hill snow skiing. My son, Darrin, daughter, LaRisa, and I left my home in West Des Moines right after school was out on a Friday afternoon. We generally drove straight through with the journey taking 12 hours or so. This year the destination was Aspen.
The night journey was generally boring through Nebraska, but, there wasn't much to see anyway. The real thrill was in the morning cutting down I-76 to Denver. It was the greatest anticipation possible, waiting for when and who would see the first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. One of life's greatest thrills is the first viewing of those beautiful majesties.
At that time, the only way into Aspen was during March, was out of I-70 to Glenwood Springs and then down highway 82 into Aspen. Another interesting thing along the way was going through the Eisenhower Tunnel that's cuts through the mountains before Dillon and Frisco.
The skiing and all that went with it was not disappointing. Aspen at the time was like a small upscale western town. One of my fondest memories was sitting in a hot tub outside our condo, with a cover over it and watching it snow and with mountains as a back drop.
The day before we left we heard a snowstorm was coming and decided to leave a day early so as as not to get stuck there. We drove west of Denver on I-70 and were met by a highway patrolman who was blocking the road from further travel.
I made the decision, the wrong one, to go north to Cheyenne and try to go around the storm. We filled up with gas in Cheyenne and headed east on I-80. It was beautiful that day and absolutely dry until 50 miles or so east of Cheyenne. Then it was like night and day.
Just like a line had been drawn, the next thing we knew we were in snow that was heavy and thick and were simply drawn into tire tracks from then on behind a line of cars as far ahead as you could see.
We were moving so slowly that our odometer was barely moving. Maybe 3-5 miles per hour. Along the way we could see an exit ahead and it seemed like hours before we got there. Cars bumper to bumper were backed up on exit ramps to get gas. Thank goodness we had filled up earlier. We were also thankful that no one had car trouble and blocked traffic.
We stopped for a while where I-80 and I-76 merged along the Platte River. It was amazing that the kids did not complain at all.
We finally made it to Ogallala, Nebraska and came out of it with just rain. The rest of the way home was a cakewalk. Atrip that normally took 12 hours turned into 24.I am glad that our guardian angel was with us!
The night journey was generally boring through Nebraska, but, there wasn't much to see anyway. The real thrill was in the morning cutting down I-76 to Denver. It was the greatest anticipation possible, waiting for when and who would see the first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. One of life's greatest thrills is the first viewing of those beautiful majesties.
At that time, the only way into Aspen was during March, was out of I-70 to Glenwood Springs and then down highway 82 into Aspen. Another interesting thing along the way was going through the Eisenhower Tunnel that's cuts through the mountains before Dillon and Frisco.
The skiing and all that went with it was not disappointing. Aspen at the time was like a small upscale western town. One of my fondest memories was sitting in a hot tub outside our condo, with a cover over it and watching it snow and with mountains as a back drop.
The day before we left we heard a snowstorm was coming and decided to leave a day early so as as not to get stuck there. We drove west of Denver on I-70 and were met by a highway patrolman who was blocking the road from further travel.
I made the decision, the wrong one, to go north to Cheyenne and try to go around the storm. We filled up with gas in Cheyenne and headed east on I-80. It was beautiful that day and absolutely dry until 50 miles or so east of Cheyenne. Then it was like night and day.
Just like a line had been drawn, the next thing we knew we were in snow that was heavy and thick and were simply drawn into tire tracks from then on behind a line of cars as far ahead as you could see.
We were moving so slowly that our odometer was barely moving. Maybe 3-5 miles per hour. Along the way we could see an exit ahead and it seemed like hours before we got there. Cars bumper to bumper were backed up on exit ramps to get gas. Thank goodness we had filled up earlier. We were also thankful that no one had car trouble and blocked traffic.
We stopped for a while where I-80 and I-76 merged along the Platte River. It was amazing that the kids did not complain at all.
We finally made it to Ogallala, Nebraska and came out of it with just rain. The rest of the way home was a cakewalk. Atrip that normally took 12 hours turned into 24.I am glad that our guardian angel was with us!
HITTING THE TRIFECTA!
This past Tuesday, I attended the Iowa Boy's State Basketball tournament in Des Moines. I decided to go it alone for the following reasons. 1) I wanted to take the opportunity to see my friend and classmate, Jerry Roberts, after the game. Jerry and Judy resides in Urbandale. 2) It gave me the opportunity to eat one of my favorite food items--"A Tasty Taco." There is a location just up the street from Jerry's. 3) Plus, I could play a lot of my favorite tunes from my private stash of CD's--everything from Bob Dillon, Burt Bacharach, KC and the Sunshine Band, The Eagles and on and on. All of course with the volume up full blast.
Again, it's the little things in life and how to manage the time we have. I brought one Tasty Taco back for my significant, Ilah, and one more for myself. Probably should have stopped at two. A little Tums helped, but, sometimes we can indulge in too much of a good thing!
Again, it's the little things in life and how to manage the time we have. I brought one Tasty Taco back for my significant, Ilah, and one more for myself. Probably should have stopped at two. A little Tums helped, but, sometimes we can indulge in too much of a good thing!
Monday, March 9, 2015
CAREFUL WHO YOU MAKE FUN OF!!
I remember when we first moved to Williamsburg and it was a day similar to today, sunny and one of those early spring days when the temperature reaches into the 40's and low 50's. I had spotted an old guy that was, what I thought, to be over dressed for the day and temperature. He had on a long wool coat with old fashion rubber boots, heavy mittens, and a wool cap and ear muffs.
I remember thinking to myself that this old guy looked really strange or funny. Well, guess what. Today while working at the Burg Grocery and helping people out with their groceries, I was still putting on my gloves even though it must have reached 50 plus degrees. To make matters worse, this morning I was still wearing my Elmer Fudd hat with ear flaps, scarf over my face, and gloves while doing my early morning power walk. My excuse is that old habits are hard to break and not that I am this old guy too!
I remember thinking to myself that this old guy looked really strange or funny. Well, guess what. Today while working at the Burg Grocery and helping people out with their groceries, I was still putting on my gloves even though it must have reached 50 plus degrees. To make matters worse, this morning I was still wearing my Elmer Fudd hat with ear flaps, scarf over my face, and gloves while doing my early morning power walk. My excuse is that old habits are hard to break and not that I am this old guy too!
Friday, March 6, 2015
DO YOU LIKE CELTIC MUSIC & R & R?
While waiting for our food to be served at the Hamburg Inn 2 the other day, I could hear the most incredible music being played from the kitchen. I asked the waitress to check it out for me as it sounded like Bob Dylan only a little to distinct and with lots of fiddle and a terrific beat.
She came out and informed us that the group was called the Water Boys. If you like music with a terrific beat that makes you want to tap your feet and clap your hands, you are in for a treat! They originated back in the early 1980's and the group members were from Ireland, Scotland, and England. It's like listening to Blue Grass cranked up a few notches.
I am a lover of music and have always said that no matter how old we get, there is always a new musical treat waiting for us. A few years ago, I really enjoyed Gnarles Barkley and his hit Crazy. I do plan on checking it out even if I have to dig a little. One of my big pleasures is getting in my car, by myself, and putting in a few of my favorite tunes and hitting the road!
If someday you pull up beside this old guy, and you can hear music being played real load, maybe a little Cajun or Cydeco, don't be too surprised. It's only Dennis!
She came out and informed us that the group was called the Water Boys. If you like music with a terrific beat that makes you want to tap your feet and clap your hands, you are in for a treat! They originated back in the early 1980's and the group members were from Ireland, Scotland, and England. It's like listening to Blue Grass cranked up a few notches.
I am a lover of music and have always said that no matter how old we get, there is always a new musical treat waiting for us. A few years ago, I really enjoyed Gnarles Barkley and his hit Crazy. I do plan on checking it out even if I have to dig a little. One of my big pleasures is getting in my car, by myself, and putting in a few of my favorite tunes and hitting the road!
If someday you pull up beside this old guy, and you can hear music being played real load, maybe a little Cajun or Cydeco, don't be too surprised. It's only Dennis!
A DESSERT THAT WILL SET YOU STRAIGHT!
A recent trip to Iowa City this past week could not have been complete without a friendly visit to my new found favorite eatery-Hamburg Inn 2. I won't even waste your time with what the main entree was. The dessert was an item I have never had! But, it is what you come to expect from this local gem. It was Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie with a side of Vanilla ice-cream. It was more like eating an out-of-this world brownie! The little things in life! And yes, I am still on a diet. But, let's get real. You only go through here once!
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
ANOTHER TASTY TACO BELIEVER!
Today at the Burg Grocery, a young lady by the name of Marci came through the check-out line and we proceeded to talk about the upcoming Williamsburg boys basketball State Tournament game next Tuesday in Des Moines.
I mentioned that I plan on attending the game not only to support the school, but, to also stop afterward for a Tasty Taco at one of the many locations in greater Des Moines. I pushed a button. Her entire family are huge fans of this "special taco treat." We went back and forth about who basically likes them more.
We may have to start a Club and let it be known that anyone going to Des Moines must bring one or two back for people who love this treat. Just when you think you are the only one?
I mentioned that I plan on attending the game not only to support the school, but, to also stop afterward for a Tasty Taco at one of the many locations in greater Des Moines. I pushed a button. Her entire family are huge fans of this "special taco treat." We went back and forth about who basically likes them more.
We may have to start a Club and let it be known that anyone going to Des Moines must bring one or two back for people who love this treat. Just when you think you are the only one?
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
FOR ME AND MY GAL! PAUL & MARY
After reading my birthday tribute to my Aunt Mary Laverty, Donna Ingraham, a classmate, called me and mentioned that her dad, Gilbert, remembered a story about uncle Paul and Aunt Mary. When they were younger, Gilbert remembered Paul constantly singing the words to the song "For Me and My Gal." It fits as they always seemed to be so much in love.
THE SALAD-from MAY LAVERTY KORTE
This past week I made a jello salad that my mother prepared on several occasions. It was one of my favorites and learned to make it several years ago after her passing so I could continue to enjoy it for many years to come. I found it originally in an old Laurel cookbook that she simply named THE SALAD.
I mentioned this to a dear classmate of mine, Donna Ingraham on a recent telephone visit. She indicated that some food items that were prepared by our mothers were referred to as funeral items. I had not heard of that description, but, as a guy probably wouldn't have or if so didn't pay attention. Checking with my sister, she thought it more as a Christmas Salad.
No matter, it is a good jello salad and I'm glad I know how to make and enjoy it from time to time.
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THE CHRISTMAS SALAD
1 pkg lime jello
1 pkg cherry jello
1 envelope Dream Whip
1 large pkg cream cheese
1 large can crushed pineapple
2 Tbl. Miracle Whip
I mentioned this to a dear classmate of mine, Donna Ingraham on a recent telephone visit. She indicated that some food items that were prepared by our mothers were referred to as funeral items. I had not heard of that description, but, as a guy probably wouldn't have or if so didn't pay attention. Checking with my sister, she thought it more as a Christmas Salad.
No matter, it is a good jello salad and I'm glad I know how to make and enjoy it from time to time.
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THE CHRISTMAS SALAD
1 pkg lime jello
1 pkg cherry jello
1 envelope Dream Whip
1 large pkg cream cheese
1 large can crushed pineapple
2 Tbl. Miracle Whip
2 cups tiny marshmallows
Prepare lime jello as to package directions and refrigerate to partially set. Drain pineapple and melt marshmallows in juice of same on low heat. Let cool and then mix in large bowl the lime jello, Miracle Whip. Dream Whip, softened cream cheese, pineapple, and marshmallow mixture. Pour all into 13 x 9 baking dish and let set in refrigerator for about 2 hours. Then add cooled prepared cherry jello over cooled mixture.
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I hope you enjoy the salad as it has a very fresh taste on "any" occasion or Holiday with the combination of the lime and pineapple flavor.
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I hope you enjoy the salad as it has a very fresh taste on "any" occasion or Holiday with the combination of the lime and pineapple flavor.
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