Thursday, June 29, 2017

WEATHER--WHAT DO I CARE!


       This past week a young mother that I know mentioned she is really concerned about the weather forcast for the 4th of July Holiday including this week-end. Her plans included Adventureland and sporting events with young children. 

      I remember those days and times. Now at my stage of life, my plans are not totally involved with what the weather conditions are. Most of what I do is done inside.(restaurants,Cubs on TV-- movies) If some event now includes the outdoors and it rains, well-- "Que Sera, Sera!"

3 DAY DIET DID THE TRICK!


        The three day diet that I resorted do on Monday thru Wednesday did the trick. I lost at least 6 pounds during that time and now I will stay the course on my "in place" eating schedule from here on. No matter, I feel confident that I can continue to eat smaller portions and NOT engaging in eating after supper time. 

          Another key is planning meals ahead, sticking to that plan and not letting anything interfere. An example will be this week-end. I plan on attending an Iowa I-Cubs baseball game in Des Moines. Before catching the evening game, I plan on stopping by one of the Tasty Taco locations and have two of my favorite morsels. It will include a glass of water and nothing else. Plus, no munchies at the game! I will have my cake and eat it too.  

Monday, June 26, 2017

TIME FOR THREE DAY DIET!


     I have seemed to have have hit a plateau on my diet plan and can't seem to get that 2 or 3 pounds off to complete my twenty pound off goal. Now it is time to get serious. 

       When I was a younger man and wanted to maintain my "girlish figure,"  I would resort to the following 3 Day Diet to shed that stubborn 5-10 pounds quickly. Maybe you have tried it or done it. Believe me you wouldn't want to do it for very long. Boring. 

       It's basically a half grapefruit here and a cup of tuna there. With a little dry toast one day and a plain wiener with a little cottage cheese, and even a dab of ice-cream along the way. I'll report in on Thursday as to the results!  

Sunday, June 25, 2017

A DREAM-OUT OF THE BLUE!


       I am always fascinated by dreams and not what they mean but why! Last night, I had a dream that simply started by me being hired and starting out as a McDonald's Manager at a location that I don't have a clue. 

        I was sitting at a desk and studying a list of the employees and I assume making up a work schedule. I have not been to a McDonald's for a long time nor ever given thought to working for them in any capacity.  I did see the movie, The Founder,  a few months ago about Ray Kroc, who founded MC Donald's. The mind-- an amazing place! 

A BIT OF IRONY!


     This past week a group of Hispanic migrant workers came into the Burg Grocery and were in the process of checking out. I found a bit of humor in the fact that they bought two big cases of bottled water. Were they told not to drink our water?

Friday, June 23, 2017

BRANDON'S JOKE OF THE WEEK!


      "What did the hat say to the coat rack?"  "You stay here and I'll go on a head!"

ELVIS & JOHNNY CASH ENTERTAIN JERRY & JUDY!


       Yesterday afternoon, Thursday, June 22, 2017, Laurel classmate Jerry Roberts, wife Judy and I attended the 2PM matinee at the Old Creamery  in Amana of "Million Dollar Quartet." It is about the ONLY time Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins were together at Sun Records where they all got their start. It is an excellent musical about the time in the 1950's. 

        It is impressive in the fact that the place was pretty well sold out for a Thursday afternoon and that it runs for an entire month with a  seating capacity of about 300. After the performance, we headed over to the nearby Oxe Yoke Inn for a little of that great Amish food. A fun afternoon with good friends. 

I'M AN UN-IOWAN!


       It seems like after every rain, someone around Williamsburg brings up the subject of-- "How much rain did you get?" Then proceeds to tell that their rain gauge measured so much rain in inches. 

       I usually mention that despite growing up on a farm, I have never possessed a rain gauge or had an interest in knowing exactly how much rain in inches was received in my area. When telling a lady that, one day at the Burg Grocery, she responded by saying---"Well that is just Un-Iowan!" Ya got to love it!


Tuesday, June 20, 2017

SENIOR MEN NOT WALKING?


        I have always believed that there is not just one reason for just about any issue or a problem. I have noticed where I walk each morning in my area of Williamsburg, Iowa, that I don't see many Senior men out walking/jogging.

           Now one could say or observe that older men, at least in this small rural town, just don't walk as it is not a cool or a masculine thing to do. Other reasons could include they play golf or exercise at the local Community Center.

         I do hope it is more than they just don't want to do it and prefer to sit in their Lazy Boy and watch TV! In the meantime, I do enjoy meeting all the nice ladies on my morning walk!

REMEMBER JACKIE BLUE?


       This "One Hit Wonder" by the Ozark Mountain Daredevils was a sweet late 1970's ditty that just made you feel good!  

Sunday, June 18, 2017

EATERY SURPRISE OF A LIFETIME- part 2


        On the list from the Des Moines Register and a place that sounded intriguing was the Bluff Lake Catfish Farm in Maquoketa, Iowa in scenic northeast Iowa.  First, it is not that far away from where I live in Williamsburg. Just under a two hour drive and most of it very scenic.

         The restaurant lies just a few minutes northeast of Maquoketa. You actually drive through  the Maquoketa Cave State Park which in itself is worth the drive. When you drive through the park and think you need to turn around, you keep going and on gravel road. 

           Then all of a sudden appears a "big" home or two and then you spot the restaurant. Keep in mind I arrived at just a little after 4 PM when they open thinking I could get in early and be on my back home at an early hour. The parking lot was full and on a deck outside the eatery was also packed with people I assumed where waiting to get in. Had I just slipped through the twi-light zone. 

          I went on in with my mouth hanging open I'm sure. It was only 4 o'clock I kept saying to myself. And, all these people. I put my name on the list and was told it would only be a half hour.  Fifty minutes later I was served and sat by "the window" with a view of a lagoon and a scenic 50 ft' water fall. Wow!

         The special for this Saturday was Haddock and all you could eat. I would have to try the Catfish another time. PS. Can you believe I'm 73 years old and never have tried Catfish! Even the side of onion rings( which I always try in a new eatery) along with the main entree were worth the wait and drive. 

        I have been surprised for different reasons when experiencing dining spots and Iowa, the USA, and elsewhere, but, this one has to be right at the top as to where it is located with beautiful scenery, how you actually get there, and how busy it was that early on opening. All that and the fact that it was just great food and service. Loved it! 
  

EATERY SURPRISE OF A LIFETIME! part 1


       Throughout my lifetime I have found enjoyment discovering eateries of all kinds and especially in small towns around the state of Iowa. It all started, many years ago, when a member of my Breakfast Club traveled from Des Moines on week-ends and discovered many "Eatery Gems." None were in the metro Des Moines area. (too easy) 

         And, also a few years ago I subscribed to a magazine guide called "The Best Ma and Pa Restaurants in Iowa. It was categorized by county and was fun taking a week-end day and making a road trip of it. 

         Last week there was a review in the Des Moines Register of twelve worthwhile, excellent food, destination spots, and just all around fun places to  dine around the state.  On the list were the likes of  Canteen Lunch in the Alley,(original state maid-rite in late 1920's)  That Place near Conrad(my personal all time favorite eating place), Ladora Bank Bistro, Goldie's Ice Cream Shoppe (do not miss), The General Store Pub ( on the scenic Wapsipinicon River in a building from a famous Grant Wood painting), and Breitbach's Country Dining in Balltown (breathtaking view)--all in Iowa. I have personally eaten at the above and would highly recommend. But, you ain't seen nothing yet!----------------to be continued.

     

DO YOU REMEMBER SHAFT?

LAUREL CAR CLUB- "ROAD SAINTS!"


        This past week I was in my car listening to the 50's XM station and the "I Get Around" was playing by the Beach Boys. For some reason I thought back when a few of the upper class-men at Laurel Consolidated School started and belonged to a car club called the "Road Saints!"

         That was all the rage back in the 1950's around the entire country. It was cool to see  classic cars of the 1950's with these metal plaques hanging from the back bumper. These guys were not any kind of or part of a "hoodie" gang. They were just a bunch of high school guys that had a love of cars! 

Saturday, June 17, 2017

T SHIRT SIGHTING OF THE WEEK!


       As I was waiting for my table to eat at the Bluff Lake Catfish Farm, I spotted a guy with a T Shirt on that stated---"Plural of Vinyl is Vinyl!" I loved it!

TOO MUCH MONEY?


       A lady was checking out at the Burg Grocery this past Monday and made a statement that you never hear. This lady had this large wad of dollar bills in her wallet and was struggling in getting the remainder she didn't need back into place. 

        She then blurted out that she-- "just had too much money!" I started to chuckle and mentioned that in all the years working there, I never heard anyone say that they had too much money! I guess you had to be there.

REALLY! BELT & SUSPENDERS


       Yesterday at the Burg Grocery was a this older gentleman waiting around for his wife to finish shopping. I was somewhat envious of him as he was literally "skinny as a rail." And, for me being on a diet didn't help matters.

        But, what was somewhat humorous, to me anyway, was the fact he was wearing not only a belt, but, a pair of suspenders. I have witnessed this several times in my life with some men, but, never fully understood the logic. I guess, maybe, to some it just is the way you should hold up your pants, for some maybe an added "insurance policy."

        I can understand doing it when you have that "belly" to deal with, have taken on that extra , but, never have taken on that extra precaution. Maybe, if I can get my weight down to where my stomach is somewhat in the flat zone, I will do the "duel" deal just for a fashion statement!     

Friday, June 16, 2017

REMEMBER REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE?


       Last night I watched in its entirety Rebel Without A Cause on the Turner Movie Channel. It's from the 1950's and starred James Dean, Natalie Wood , Sal Mineo, and even Dennis Hopper had a minor role. One of the classic movies about teenagers and one that had an impact on me.  

Thursday, June 15, 2017

TRAVELING-WHAT HAPPENED TO MY AMERICA?


       When traveling this past March to the Smokey Mountain and Blue Ridge area, I was reminded was how much traveling has changed since vacationing back in the 1950's and 1960's. 

         There was a time with just two lane highways and before the Interstate System you could simply pull off the road and pull into the service you needed. An example, if you needed gas you simply spotted the gas station and rolled right in and pulled up to the pump. No exits and service roads. 

        Today, and without the aid of "apps" on a smart phone, if wanting to eat you have to check the little signs along the highway and decide what and where you want to eat. Then you get that certain exit and figure out which way to go and then possibly negotiate one or more service roads. 

        Back in the dark ages you just checked out a a restaurant and if it said "Alice's Restaurant" and you liked it's looks from the outside, you gave it a try. And, most eateries had a little of this and that on the menu with maybe a "Special" of the day. You can find these "Mom and Pop" places today but, you have to take the time to search them out. Don't get me wrong It is a different ball-game in traveling, but, it is a less stressful ride getting to your destination.

"SHE WAS FROM NEW YORK CITY!"


        I helped a young lady with her groceries at the Burg Grocery yesterday and her license plate read "The Empire State"--New York.  She was here visiting her grand-mother. My first question I asked her was where exactly did she live. Her response was a small town just east of New York City and just north of the New Jersey state line. 

        I mentioned that I had been in the City and up-state a few times plus Bergan County, New Jersey(just west of the City and Hudson River.) It is always fun to talk to people from other areas of the country and when you can relate to that area.

        And, I wasn't really surprised when she confessed that she loves living out there even with all the traffic and congestion.  I did somewhat understand as I lived in West Des Moines for 30 years. Several friends and relatives that lived in smaller communities or in rural areas just couldn't imagine it. 

        One positive way I look at living in Iowa and a small community is I am in the middle of the country and can go in any direction with ease and I am only six blocks from the grocery store!!! PS. Could thing we all don't want to live in the same area.     

CALL A SPADE A SPADE!


        Through the years we have heard job descriptions brought up in different ways. For example, the classic one tied to the garbage man. Examples would be the "sanitary engineer" or the "waste collector."

       The best one of late was one I saw on a poster announcing an upcoming event at a local women's clothing store at Tanger Outlet Mall here in Williamsburg, Iowa. A young lady will be here on May 20th and she is billed to assist you--"To enhance your wardrobe for the upcoming season. How to mix and match, pack for a vacation while maximizing your choices, etc."

        What is her title you ask. She is billed as a "INTUITIVE WARDROBE ENHANCER!" I'm not even sure how to use the word intuitive in a sentence. I know this type of promotional creativity has been around for a long time.

        I remember the time in the 1980's when Younker's in Des Moines had someone that would do your "colors" for a few. I don't believe they called them "Color Enhancer's?" You should head out there and get enhanced!

Sunday, June 11, 2017

WONDER WOMAN


      Since I heard so many good things about this movie, the critics raves and the enormous first week-end "gross," I decided to do my Sunday morning trip to Corralville for a flick. I had to see see it in 3-D as that was the only way it was being shown in the AM and I had to be home in the PM for my CUBS.

        All I can say and will is one of the first movies in a long long time that I was glad that I had seen, but, wish I hadn't! Enter at your own risk. End of story!

LAUREL REUNION-A GLIMPSE OF HUMOR!


        Some things in life we try to fight rather than embracing it. In some ways it is sad that someday the Laurel Consolidated School reunion will be no more. After all, my class of 1962 was the second to last class to graduate from there before the consolidation with Gilman and becaming Semco. 

         If you do the math and know that I am 73 years old, then you sort of get the picture where this is all headed. There were those at the Reunion in Haverhill that were having a hard time hearing others talking, some with sight issues, and one or two with aching backs and the like and had to be seated.

        Even though it was an extremely hot day and very cool inside the Shelter, there were still those that had to go out to their vehicles and get added clothing because they were "chilled!" It was brought up at one point that the problem with a Potluck was that older classmates have to carry items in to the building. It initially seemed funny to me knowing that the youngest there was 73 years old. Maybe next year consideration can be given to hiring a young "assistant" or two to be available for any type of assistance!

          But, we must keep looking at that glass being "half full" or give it up. One spouse of a classmate replied when coming in-- "How he/she was doing?" The response was "fair." Someone I knew many years ago always would reply with that question---"FANTASTIC!" You might as well say fantastic because most people don't really care how you are doing and have enough on their own plate.   

LAUREL POTLUCK SCHOOL REUNION SUCCESS!


       Moving the Reunion to Haverhill, going Potluck, and changing the time of day to the noon, would it be too much of a change? The answer was none of the above. My opinion it that it was a great turnout and a success despite the hot weather and all the changes. 

      Everyone in attendance seemed really happy to be there. The enclosed shelter house at the Haverhill Park was smaller than the Fellowship Hall at the United Methodist Church in Laurel, but, with maybe a fewer people in attendance, it felt like more. 

       The change to Potluck was a fantastic idea. With all the wonderful and delicious homemade delights and way too much to be eaten, it was a dream come true for someone like myself who loves Potlucks. Give me this array of "loving homemade comfort food pleasure" over the "Fancy" spreads anytime!

         It was also nice to have it held at the noon hour so some that had long distances to drive home could do so by early evening. The date of the 10th of June  worked better as it would not interfere with Father's Day. Who says older  people can't change? All in all I think the 2017 Reunion was a total success and look forward to next year. Three things for sure that was voted on by those in attendance. Next year it will be held at noon, the 2nd Saturday in June, and it will be Potluck. Let's hear an Amen for the Potluck!  

        

Saturday, June 10, 2017

KIDNEY BEAN SALAD UP FROM THE PAST!


       One advantage or dis-advantage of working at a grocery store is all the ideas you get in  preparing and/or eating food.  One idea that came out of isle 2 was while I was "facing" there. The can of kidney beans was talking to me and for some reason I listened.

         On a somewhat ongoing basis, my mother used to make this salad and I always remember how I enjoyed it. And, with me currently on a diet and trying to eat more of my meals without meat or especially beef and pork, it is an opportune time to give this taste treat from the past a go!

DO I LIKE TO SHOP?


       Some ladies at the Burg Grocery were talking about how they both didn't like to shop! Was I hearing right. Women that didn't like to shop. Could it be. It reminded me of the time I was in the Marshalltown Town Center shopping. 

        I had been into Penney's buying socks and then on to the Sports store for a new baseball hat. As I was paying, I told the clerk to speed it up as I already had been in the shopping center for over "eight minutes!" I still shop that way. Complete the mission and get out!

"16 LBS & WHAT DO YA GET?"


      Do you remember the song from Tennessee Ernie Ford--"Sixteen Tons." Sixteen tons and what do you get---! My song is that I have lost 16 pounds, another day older, and feeling a lot better!

Friday, June 9, 2017

"ME AND MY SHADOW!"

      
This morning and out on my morning walk, I noticed something with a pleasant surprise. The shadow following me along has taken on a little different shape lately. Instead of that "round" shadow following me along, it has flattened out by quite a bit. I think I like that new shape "shadowing" me than that old plump one just a short time ago!

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

SO EXCITED/1ST BRICKYARD 400!


     I feel like a little kid. I just ordered,( the old fashion way-ticket office via telephone, )a ticket to my first NSCAR race ever at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Speedway, Indiana. The race will be held on Sunday July 23, 2017.

     Years ago when the Indy 500 was king, I attended 15 or 16 Indy "500" races at the Speedway. I have never and  always wanted to experience the "big cars" at a NSCAR racing event. I just never could get anyone interested in attending with me so therefore just never went. 

        I did go to one such race in Newton, Iowa, but, I wanted to experience "all" at one of the larger tracks. I had thought about going to the Chicagoland 400 held in September. But, then it dawned on me. Why not attend a NSCAR race at a track that is considered the most famous of "all" motor racing tracks. Also, I have learned I don't need someone to go with me for anything--events or travel! Can't wait! "Gentlemen get ready to start your engines!" 

Monday, June 5, 2017

TEN REASONS FOR WEIGHT LOSS


        Since April 12, 2017, I have lost nearly 15 pounds and I would like to share my own Top Ten reasons why it has been a good thing. Most you have heard before, but, just bear with me and follow along.

1.  One of the most obvious is being able to bend over and put my socks on with ease.

2.  Being able to get under that tight fitting booth with a little more ease when dining out.

3.   It seems like I have more money to spend as I am not buying snacks and eating smaller portions.

4. Clothes to fit, look, and feel better along with looking forward to getting into pants that I saved that are one size smaller.

5.  The health angle, and, not having my doctor referring to me as "Obese" when dictating his notes. 

6. Actually being able to pick up that dime or quarter with a little more ease.

7.  While taking my morning power walk, picking up the pace, and not tiring as much.

8.  At night while in bed, rolling over in one swift motion.

9.  No other way to say it. More energy!

10.  Staying focused on what next meal will be and not letting it be a large pepperoni pizza!

Sunday, June 4, 2017

IRISH DANCERS-ICING ON THE CAKE!


       After my brunch at the Pullman Bar and Grill and about 10 AM, I headed down to the Ped Mall area before then going to my car and leaving Iowa City. To my surprise and amazement was a young group of ladies/girls that were beginning a performance of dance on a stage at the Ped Mall area. The group was called Champagne from the Academy of Irish Dance. 

        What a treat it was to sit on a warm Sunday morning and be entertained by these talented young ladies, youngest four years old, with their dance and Irish music. Sometimes I wonder if I truly love this type of dance and music because of my Irish heritage or because I just love good music and talented dance. When I first saw  the production of "River Dance," it was hard to contain my feelings. What a pleasant way to end an enjoyable brunch and stroll through scenic downtown Iowa City, also, on the last day of their Art Festival. Wow!

      

ONE OF THE" BEST BRUNCH" PLACES EVER!


     A while back there was a review in the Des Moines Register about this place in Iowa City,Pullman Bar and Grill, labeled as the best brunch restaurant in IOWA by Food Network. As stated this place has been open for over 2 1/2 years and "it's brunch lineup is knocking it out of the ballpark."

        After reading this review by a Brian Carlson, I just had to give a try as Iowa City is so close and the fact that I love breakfast and/or brunch. And, I am not a novice when it comes to breakfasts. I've had some of the best at places on Waikiki Beach, the Maine coast and one of the finest hotel restaurants at Crater Lake, Oregon, but, this place was just plain fun, cool, and with a cosmopolitan flair. 

       I was a little surprised at its setting. It is right in the heart of downtown Iowa City on Dubuque Street and in the middle of the block close to the Old Capital Building and in the heart of where it is "happening." I had always envisioned it as a self standing building like a diner or like an old fashioned "Pullman train car."  

     It does only seat 50 people or so and is narrow with an open kitchen and lots of built in stools at a marble  counter. In this narrow eatery are a row of tables in front with booths toward the back across from counter and kitchen. 

       This was my first go at a Salmon Egg Benedict and it was out of this world. I am not going in to all they have on their menu, but, if you're looking for just a plain greasy spoon then this isn't the place. If you're looking for some atmosphere with a breakfast tastefully different then this is it. 

      I will be back soon as I caught a glimpse of "French Onion Soup", my favorite, on the lunch menu. Next time I may just sit at the counter and watch the cooks make it all fresh as they advertise. It will be like sitting at the lunch counter at Kresge's in Marshalltown, Iowa back in the olden times!~

SECRET SERVICE CHECKED ME OUT/COOL!


       Yesterday, 6/3/2017, I drove to Boone, Iowa, and took in Iowa's Senator Joni Ernst's Third Annual Roast and Ride held at the local Expo Grounds. It was a good experience to visit with some of the attendees while have lunch and getting to view Ernst lead in her motorcycle followed by estimates of up to another 500 bikers. 

        All the dignitaries were there including our new first time female Governor, Kim Reynolds,  Senator Chuck Grassley, and the head-liner, Vice President Mike Pence. All this was very enjoyable, but, the following was what made my day.

         I was informed when arriving in my car that there would be a "short wait" due to the Secret Service being behind schedule with the Vice President attending. That short wait turned into nearly a 2 hour slow crawl. Not good for a lot of older people and no availability  of "potties." Thank goodness I had made a pit stop at a nearby Casey's before hand. 

     When finally arriving up to where the security people where checking all vehicles, it was all business. I was informed to open my trunk, and keep all parts of my body inside the vehicle as not confuse the dog sniffing around. They also had the guy with the big mirror to view the underside of my vehicle. It was kind of cool even with the long wait. I have never had my car checked out like that even when entering Mexico or Canada.

       Another observation was the two "marksmen standing on top of the nearby "Sukup" grain bin(only in Iowa) and constantly checking out the crowd with huge binoculars. And, when Joni Ernst made her second entrance on her cycle accompanied by Vice President Pence, also on his motorcycle another site was to follow. It was the half dozen or so Secret Service detail. Just like in the movies--dressed in dark suits, white shirts, sun glasses and ear pieces. 

         Maybe it was just the "little boy" coming out, but all the security, with the Secret Security, Snipers, and cops, hoopla really made my day.  A very cool day despite the fact the temperature on the grounds easily exceeded 90 degrees!

      

ANOTHER SIGN YOU'RE OUT WEST


       Recently I drove through the Sand Hill area of western Nebraska and viewed the Chimney Rock National Monument near Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. This is a famous land mark used by those on the Oregon Trail.

        I was quickly reminded that I was somewhere other than Iowa when I got out of my car and attempted to view the Chimney Rock a little closer at a nearby parking lot. There was several signs that warned  that if you got off the sidewalk and wandered out into the prairie--rattlesnakes might be encountered! Yup! Another sign I was out west. I loved it! 
     

REMEMBER LOW RIDER by WAR?

      
      Yesterday, 6/3/2017 I also heard on the radio an "oldie" that always just made me feel good. If you haven't heard it lately pull it up and enjoy. If you don't feel better after listening to it then something might be seriously wrong in your life.--- "Take a Little Trip with Me!"

HOW THE TIME FLIES/JERRY WALLACE


     Yesterday I heard one of my favorite "oldies" songs that I hadn't heard in a long long time. Between hearing old music from that piped in to the Burg Grocery and listening to the 50's channel on my XM/Sirius radio I hear most of my favorite 50's, 60's, 70's and some 80's music on a constant basis. 

       "How the Time Flies"--(When I'm with You)-- by Jerry Wallace from the 50's was one of my favorites that I hadn't heard since who knows when! Normally I am and wasn't in to a type of slower love song. But, for some reason this one always struck a cord with me. Especially, when the vocals repeat the line "Dickey Do!" 

Friday, June 2, 2017