MY MOM-LAST "PEPPER GAME!"

       This coming Sunday will be my mother's Doris May Smith Laverty Korte, birthday. (9/3/1913.) I will not be stating what age she would be if alive as I have never cared for that distinction. Anyone can do the math if they want.

         Through our lifetime, we all have probably stated how we would like to pass on or and/or where. Mine used to be I thought I would like to have a quick passing while cheering on my favorite Hawkeyes at Kinnick stadium. I don't feel that way today as I wouldn't want all the commotion and disruption of the game. 

         Although my mother's passing was somewhat untimely on that April evening in 2003, it was fairly quick prior to her getting ready for bed. One good memory of that evening will always be that I was able to play a few hands of her favorite card game--Pepper. I'm sure besides her saying that she would have wanted her entire family with her,  playing that fast paced card game would have been on her top 5 list!

ANOTHER SIGN YOU'RE GETTING OLDER!

          Yesterday at the Burg Grocery, a regular customer picked up his sack of groceries and was getting to leave. I mentioned that he was not yet in that "older" category yet as he picked the somewhat heavy sack without muttering "UGH!"

          It is well know that when you get to the place when getting up from your chair, out of bed, leaning over to pick up something, and you have to go "UGH" then you know you are officially "OLD." Give it a test!
      

DON'T DRINK & DRIVE BUT!!

       I am planning a trip to North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, later in September. For some reason, after helping a guy out with his groceries including a half-gallon of ice-cream, it came to me that something that could be enjoyable would be to grab some ice-cream along the way of my fairly long trip and pass the time with ice-cream and I do mean while driving. Why not? I just need to figure out how to keep it somewhat cold for a period of time. 


          It would be embarrassing to be pulled over by the Highway Patrol and be accused of weaving down the highway, and then, having to explain you were just getting HIGH on some Blue Bunny Rocky Road. Or, maybe I'll settle for a few Klondike or a couple of Dove Bars! This trip is looking better and better! 

THE ULTIMATE PANCAKE!

        I have made pancakes and  waffles for many years and have used most of that time Bisquick. This past week-end and after dieting off and on since April, I decided to make some pancakes which were long over due. 

        For the first time in many decades, I decided to give the "Ultimate Pancake" recipe on the back of the box a go!  A little baking soda for that rise, some veg. oil, sugar and a shot or two of vanilla extract. Wow! Those babies were extra thick and THE perfect consistency. They looked like something you would make for a pancake commercial or advertisement. 

           With some crispy bacon and a big glass of 2% milk, I was in ecstasy for brunch time! Who says you can't teach an old----!  

10 REASONS DRAG RACING MAY NOT BE FOR YOU!

       This Saturday night I drove over to Cordova, Illinois( just up Ill. 84 along Mississippi River 20 minutes from La Claire, Iowa) to attend the 64th World Series of Drag Racing at the Cordova International Raceway just north of town.

        Ever since my cousin, Larry Laverty went there in the late 1950's/early 60's, I  have always given thought about going some day. Yesterday was the day! It was worth the trip to witness one of those big long dragsters fueled with NITRO blaze that quarter mile at literally ear breaking sound and speed of over 300 MPH in under 10 seconds.

         The following are some reasons, though, why this sport and as a fan may not be for you!

1. After being in the stands for a time with 5,000 fans you my come to realize you were the only one who voted for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 Election against Donald Trump! (I didn't vote for her)

2. If you drove to the drag strip for first time in your Prius, you may not comprehend the sound of BLUGA BLUGA BLUGA coming from the race cars.

3. It is imperative that you wear a T-Shirt that sports your favorite auto supply store, body shop, NASCAR/DRAG racing hero, name of Biker Chapter, or anything else that has to do with engines or wheels. A baseball cap with a squeezed bill is also part of your ensemble and must have a flame logo!  

4. You also come to realize you may be the most educated there, you are the only one that CAN'T overhaul an engine and maybe even the kids in attendance. 

5. You love the tattoo on the handsome guy sitting next to you if only he had most of his front teeth. His girlfriend has only one arm completely tattooed with three tones of hair coloring and one side completely shaved. 

6.  When you get this puzzled look from another fan walking by as you ask where a Latte stand might be found?

7. You see another nearby fan suck on a E cigarette and then realize after gazing around that half the fans there are puffing away at their favorite REAL Lucky Strike!

8.   Not only can you smoke real cigs here, you can bring in your favorite "Old Milwaukee" by the case in a cooler and in a toy wagon along with a big ol' ham and cheese sandwich made by mamma before coming.

9. If there is one magazine these fans would be subscribing to it would be "Drag Racing R-US !" 

10.  Lastly, trying to remember where your car is parked in an un-lite and un-marked parking lot when attempting to leave. Thank goodness for technology and autos ability to find you! 

  


a 

DOES THIS MAKE SENSE?

       In Saturday's, 8/26/2017, Des Moines Register the following article was found on the front page.  "The state board tasked with enforcing Iowa's PUBLIC meetings law met in SECRET Friday on a case involving an accidental fatal shooting by a Burlington police officer, then voted to take action based on that secret meeting. 

     But the board won't say what action it took, or what it concerned. The Des Moines Register has filed a complaint that asks its board members to fine themselves $1,000 each."

APPROACHING 2,000 STORIES!

       Several years ago when still residing in Marshalltown, Iowa, I had made up a resume to present to a local group who I was attempting to convince on a speaking engagement on "Short Story Writing."

        At the time, 2008, I had put together a book consisting of 150  personal and family related short stories. Since that time, I have established a Blog site since that time and have enjoyed writing stories of all sorts and lengths from "Now and Ago."

         I have enjoyed the experience and have not tired of the daily exercise. Each day brings about  new ideas about current stories and memories of long ago. I only hope that I can continue this pleasure for many years to come and that it brings a smile or chuckle to those sharing by reading my stories. Thank you for sharing!

         

         

SPEAKING TO SENIORS-"WRITE YOUR STORIES!"

       On September 8th, 2017, at the Williamsburg Library, I will be giving a short presentation to a Senior group on the importance of writing personal and family related short stories. I am very passionate on the subject and am looking forward to the event!

CLEANING TIP FROM DENNIS!

      It seems like a lot of the time carrying out groceries for customers at the Burg Grocery, the interior of the autos are very cluttered and messy. One lady this past week had to look in front passenger, back left and back right, before deciding which had the least clutter to put the groceries. She then mentioned that it was time to clean out the interior of her auto. 

     I mentioned to her that when I go on trips or for some reason I have a lot of "items" in the car to get out, I simply use one of a couple of plastic clothes baskets I keep in the garage. After a trip it is much easier to put a lot of my "stuff" in the basket, carry it in and disburse everything once inside. It makes the job of unloading a breeze! Besides, I just can't stand a messy car inside little lone a dirty car outside. 

      Try it sometime when you simply want to clean out your car. If your vehicle is really bad get yourself a "small rake" and have some real fun!!

         

DON'T LAUGH-MONTH TILL NORTH DAKOTA!

      I never thought I would live long enough to be looking forward to North Dakota. I have never sat foot in the state and most of my life time have made jokes or "poo-pooed" the whole idea of going there. What's there?

       After my last trip to the Sand Hills area of western Nebraska, my whole concept of beauty, open spaces, and the fact of going somewhere without lots and lots of people, minimal trash, and very little traffic. I honestly could travel from now until I leave this planet without spending any time in a large city. Been there-done that!

          As a matter of fact, the top four areas on my USA Bucket list are all west of the Mississippi. I have been to Maine and will never forget it, but, even there--too many people for me now. Maybe in a few years you will find me out west somewhere sitting on a mountain side/prairie and talking to myself!

       Theodore Roosevelt National Park here I come and then the color changing of the Aspen's in the Colorado Rockies! 
        

ME IN A COWBOY HAT?

     Do you ever get one of those impulsive moments? Something comes over you out of the blue and you really don't know why. it happened last week at the Iowa State Fair while cutting through one of the livestock barns. 

       There is an area in the cattle barn where they sell all kinds of western wear and whatever. I glanced down and over where several varieties of cowboy hats were displayed. There were huge ones that Hoss Cartright would wear to those that were rattlesnake designed. 

       It was probably the first time in my life or at least  sinceI was a very young boy that for a brief moment, I was giving serious thought to wanting one. I really can't imagine wearing a cowboy hat of any kind with my plain pressed short sleeve shirt with black T-shirt underneath and cargo pants.

    I can't imagine going out and looking for clothes with a western flair. Although,  I did buy a fairly bright turquoise western shirt with pearl buttons that I thought I just had to have last year and have never worn. Maybe I'm going through some kind of metamorphosis transformation? Maybe just "one last fling thing" at my 70's stage. I'll let you know how this one turns out.        

IS THAT YOUR SIDE HUSTLE?

        While helping a customer out with his groceries yesterday at the Burg Grocery, he had overheard me mentioned about cleaning windows for another customer. He turned to me and asked --"Is this, meaning working at the Grocery, your Side Hustle?"

      I started to laugh as I had never heard that expression before. I asked him if he was originally from the East Coast as that it sounded like  something that would come from there. No, he had lived around Williamsburg, Iowa all his life. Ya, I guess the carry out job is my "Side Hustle" and Window Cleaning is my "Main Hustle!" 

BECAUSE MY COUSIN LARRY L. DID IT!

      One thing that has been on my "Bucket List" of sorts has been attending a drag race at Cordova, Illinois. There is a major event that will be held this week-end of August 26, 2017. After visiting with a reliable local about attending and also because I have always remembered that my cousin Larry Laverty had attended a race or more at Cordova,  back in the late 1950's-early 1960's. 

        A few years ago I attended a drag race at the track near Cedar Falls. I knew I wanted to attend others. I don't believe it will ever replace my desire for oval track racing like Indy or NASCAR, but, I am really looking forward to an exciting evening of racing! 

I'VE BECOME A GROUPIE-OF SORTS!

      Last night, Saturday August 19,2017, I headed to the Wildwood Saloon just east and outside of Iowa City, Iowa, to watch my favorite Iowa based band--The Fez--Tribute to Steely Dan. I have seen this band approx. 5 times and I never ever get tired of hearing and watching them. 

      I have said it before that this 15 piece group has to be one of the most talented and entertaining home grown groups going today. The songs are what the original Steely Dan band made famous with lyrics and a musical sound simply timeless. Not too heavy not too fluffy--just right!

       What was fun last night was sitting next to and visiting with a couple from Cedar Rapids who follows them all over. And, has seen them over 15 times plus many many other top R&R groups. Sometimes we think we are the only one that likes or is in to something. To watch the crowd that was there and singing along during most songs was so fun. Maybe I should run for their Fan Club(Senior) President?   

MEATBALL SANDWICH--WHAT WAS I THINKING?

       I saw this delicious looking recipe in a Special Edition cook book by BH&G lately, and just had to give it a try. It was an Italian meat ball sandwich and since I never have made anything with meat-balls, it sounded like a great idea. And, this was despite the fact that I never could grasp the idea of making something ROUND in a sandwich and having to mess with holding it in and not rolling out into your lap.

      No matter. I was obsessed with making it any way. Well, it tasted great as I was sure it would. But, so does my favorite "pizza boat" which I make with the same 50/50 sweet sausage/hamburger. Even the Iowa State Fair favorite of mine, the Gizmo(Italian sausage sandwich), can be made right here at home and come very close in taste. 

        It just boils down to the fact that I had to give something a try that I never tried before. I'm glad I did despite I didn't care for it and deep down knew I probably wouldn't. Sometimes it takes a mistake to know how what you do right--the best!

JAGUAR-TOO HOITY TOITY!

     The automobile Jaguar has been running a series of commercials lately, at least on cable, and I'm having a difficult time understanding what the guy or announcer is calling the luxury auto.

       Years ago there was a time when they were referring it as a Jag-U-ar! And now, the voice is calling it a Jagmmmmm! I still can't understand what is really saying. I know it is not my hearing. Is this their way of really making it sound snobbish or "Upity!" I think if this is the intent they have gone a little too far. It's just a CAR! Just call it what it originally was called in THIS country--a Jaguar!

CRESCENT CHERRY CHEESECAKE COBBLER

      I had no business making this dessert right now while I am on a mission in trying to lose another 10 pounds. But, and however,  I am glad I did because it was flat out maybe the best cherry dessert I have eaten in a long long time. 

       It is called the Crescent Cherry Cheesecake Cobbler. The thing I believe made it really yummy was not only the load of cream cheese and vanilla but, using a quality cherry pie filling like Wilderness. All I know is unlike some recipes that I have to look up again and again, this one is branded in my brain forever! Yummy!

STELLA!

        Today in Williamsburg and around the Town Square,Saturday 8/19, 2017, will be entertainment, food vendors crafts, games etc, for an event referred to as Stella's. Not sure what the significance of the event, but, should be fun. I also did windows this past week for a family and their pet dog was named Stella. And a customer came into the Burg grocery and her name was Stella!

        Yes, you guessed it. It led me to rack my "movie buff" brain of mine and come up with the all that one should know about one of the classic lines from an old movie. "STELLA!" It was yelled by Marlon Brando in the 1951 award winning movie--- Streetcar Named Desire! 

MY UNCLE PAUL LAVERTY WOULDA LOVED THIS CIRCUS!

       This past Thursday evening, 8/17/2017, I attended the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus here in Williamsburg, Iowa. By no stretch of the imagination could it compare to the three ring circus of the now defunct Ringling Bros - Barnum & Bailey Circus. Those were magical times with my kids and grand-children with those huge productions at Vet's Auditorium in Des Moines, Iowa. Nor, could it compare to my first circus with my cousins and my Uncle Paul Laverty in Des Moines, Iowa at the Iowa State Fairgrounds back in the early 1950's, and, it was a three ring affair under a canvas tent.

           However, this circus was special despite small performances including a dog act, family of jugglers, a two tigers and lion act, one clown in a little car, and one draft and Shetland pony act.
What made it special was the children in attendance. This circus was magical and special to them. Two little twin girls sat on the right of me and another about the same age of three or four sat on the left of me. 

         The laughter of those little girls and their wide eyed looks with were so precious. There is nothing like sharing a special time like the circus with these youngsters even though they weren't my own! Even the little cutie on my left thought my watch was cool! Yes, my Uncle Paul would have loved this Circus! 

  

A GREAT DAY @ THE DOCTOR"S!

      I always love going to my doctor's appointment and when the doctor says "How are you doing?" and being able to reply-- "Fantastic!" It was great knowing that I had lost over 20 lbs. since my last appointment on April 11, 2017. All my vital numbers were down including blood pressure, AIC, etc. The next goal is another TEN! I celebrated with a Maid-Rite at Taylor's! Thank you very much!

AMISH GETTING IT DONE IN STRINGTOWN!

     Yesterday I drove down to Stringtown, which is a small area north of Kalona, to attend the Monday afternoon August 14, 2017,  "bulk"  Twin County Produce Auction. It is put on by the Amish in the area and is held in a new building recently built by the Amish and is located adjacent to the Springtown Grocery and behind and just NE of the Kalona Cheese Factory on Highway 1.

        Someone had told me about this "bulk produce sale" that is actually held three times a week. I was told that it was quite an event, and I thought it would be good to experience something new and different in terms of type of auction, culture, and lots of great food grown and produced right here in Iowa. 

        I was not disappointed. These Amish men (!5-20), who as I understand run this like a co-op, worked efficiently  arranging all the boxed produce in neat lines right up to auction time of 4PM. I have never witnessed more beautiful veggies in my life. Bright red tomatoes, large dark green peppers, large green beans, watermelon and on and on. All this produce was raised and furnished by local Amish families in the Kalona area.

        The big catch is that this auction is for those buying in bulk--restaurant owners, grocery stores, those canning etc. One grouping may have consisted of 12 boxes of big beautiful tomatoes with a dozen tomatoes in each box. If the winning bid was $18.00 the it was times the amount of boxes from a particular seller--maybe a local Amish farmer named Yoder. 

       It was a fascinating experience and the whole auction took just under one hour. I would encourage anyone that is planning a trip to the Kalona area include this experience in your day or week-end!

       

CAN YOU EAT AT TAYLOR'S MAID-RITE TOO EARLY

       Today, August 15,2017, I had finished my doctor's appointment around 9:30 AM in Gladbrook,  and was back in Marshalltown and did some "running around" until about 10:30 AM. Even though I had fasted before going to my four month check-up and being  fairly hungry, it was by my "clock" too early to have lunch.

        Then, all of a sudden that little guy in my head said- "Why not?"  What is the big deal and who says that one must wait until 11:30 AM or so to eat. That favorite " With everything"  sandwich with a vanilla malt and double shot of malt, may have one of the "best"in a long while. Could it be I was just plain hungry? Who cares!  Maybe next time, I'll just drive to M-Town and have one for Breakfast!

STATE FAIR/FAVORITE FOOD!

       Years ago, I used to attend the Fair on more than one occasion. How else could you eat all the great food that can be found there. I used to sit a particular place and have foot long hot dog, never missed the pork chop on a stick, a big lemonade, my Gizmo, the Wonder Bar, and several different and newly introduced goodies that I have long forgotten.

      Now, I can't eat all this stuff like I used to even in one day. And, since getting to the Fair has be`come just a "one shot"occasion I make the best of it and now have it down to just the Gizmo, my favorite of all time fair-going food, and the Wonder Bar. Besides, I have learned how to prepare that pork chop as good as the Fair(without the stick) but, I haven't learned the total secret of the spices they use in the Gizmo!

STATE FAIR/BIGGEST SINGLE DAY CROWD EVER?

       I just caught the Des Moines Register this AM, Monday August 14, 2017, and saw where the attendance for Saturday, which I attended, was a little over 120,000! Something told me while I was there that the crowd was one of the biggest ever. I have been to too many of these fairs and you get to "have a feeling" as to the size of the crowds. 

        Next year I may wait for an off day like a Tuesday or Thursday and hope it is raining for a smaller crowd.  On the other hand, it is a delight to sit along the Grand Concourse and just watch all the people. I do love it so!

STATE FAIR/ DISAPPOINTMENT!

       Some of my disappointment of something I intended on doing and didn't is also with a little anger thrown in. My intention was to stick around till 8 PM and catch the Pink Floyd Tribute(imitation) Band that was playing at the free stage up the hill by the Cultural Building.

       First of all, each year I usually hoof it right the "the hill" and catch all the photos and art in the Cultural Building. I was going to tie the two things together later that evening. The problem was that I had done about everything I wanted to do and see by only 5:30PM. 

       The thought of just "hanging out" until 7 or 8 PM seemed just too long and driving home and being in my Laz-E-Boy at an early hour seemed more inviting and comfortable. Damned getting older! I will get up that hill next year--I'll take the Sky-Ride up one way or the John Deere Express that is available and then walk down. I should be thankful I did go and now have good memories of the day! 

       

STATE FAIR/MIDWAY MEMORY!

       Just before I decided I had enough of the Fair, I took a stroll into the Midway area to see if I could find a memory or two of by gone years. I found two side by side. First thing I spotted was a "Wonder Bar" stand. That is always my last thing I get to eat before leaving as my dessert. I didn't realize that there was a stand right inside the Midway. And, it was only $3.00 I was a little suspicious as nothing seems to be that cheap at the fair any longer. It was delicious, normal size and I'm still alive!

       Second, right next to the Wonder Bar place was the game where you throw the ball and attempt to knock over 3 milk bottles which we all know must be made of lead. None while I sat at a bench nearby were ever knocked all over. One bottle never ever seemed to move an inch.

       It did bring back a memory when a Laurel class-mate and I, while attending the State Fair as young teenagers, played this very same game.  The Carny at the time egged me on to keep trying and took me for $10.00. A lot of money for the late 50's or early 1960's. It taught me one lesson in life. I never played any type of game ever again at a fair or carnival! 

STATE FAIR/PEOPLE WATCH!

          Besides the food, people watching is my favorite thing to do at the Iowa State Fair. Unfortunately, there a lot of people that I wish I hadn't seen. I see too many young way over weight girls with skimpy clothes that I'm sure they think is cute and sexy. But, if they only knew that they look so pathetic!

        I did see and hear a lot of "foreign" tongue which is a good thing and shows more diversity of people the fair. I has always been a complaint that the fair was too white and rural. It is a changing! 

          The day I attended , Saturday, August 12, 2017 , was extremely packed with people due to the great weather, I'm sure. If you could have eliminated all the folks who were either sitting in BEER tents or walking around with a big plastic cup of beer, it would have been quite pleasant. 

STATE FAIR/SLICER DICER GUY!

        No State Fair would ever be complete without checking out the "Slicer Dicer" guy located outside/north side of the Varied Industries Building. They sell this kit that they demonstrate by slicing and dicing veggies to primarily make "Salsa!" 

         After watching these demonstrations for close to 5 decades, I probably should have bought one by now, but, I haven't. I just keep cutting up my veggies the hard way with a plain ol' paring knife! Maybe next year.

 

          

STATE FAIR/THINK YOUR AUTO IS EXPENSIVE?

       I always like to check out the Biggest Sow, Biggest Steer, and all the Blue Ribbon stuff that is found there. One thing I did this year was stroll  the through the Farm Implement area. There I found a John Deere Model 9620 RX tractor with huge track wheels!? The list price was $625,000. I'm sure you could get a great "fair discount!"

IMPRESSED W/ CONGRESSMAN BLUM

      Someone this past week gave me an invitation to the "Summer Picnic" with U.S. Congressman Rod Blum of the 1ST District of Iowa which includes a lot NE Iowa including Marshalltown, Iowa. It was held in Marengo, Iowa at the Iowa County Fair Grounds. (Friday August 11,2017)

        Not knowing what to expect and always wanting to "get involved" in politics in some manner(other than just donating money) I decided to attend and see what would happens at this town hall meeting. Besides, they had a pretty good spread for food including sweet corn and lots of home made cookies which by some miracle I only had two!

        It wasn't a terribly big crowd of maybe 50 to 100 people tops. Nothing like the Joni Ernest Bike Ride earlier this year in Boone. And, I didn't witness anyone that got obnoxious or out of hand with questions about health care or whatever! No doubt that Blum is a very conservative but knowledgeable Congressman after listening to his remarks. Will see where it goes from here!

HOW'S YOUR LOVE LIFE BIG BOY?

      A regular customer to the Burg Grocery asked me the other day --"How's your love life big boy!" First of all, if I asked a customer that question I would be thrown out very quickly! But, I just smiled and replied: "Great! It's Non-existent!" 

       When I was loading her groceries, I explained that I would be going to the State Fair and that I had been attending on several occasions by myself. One advantage of being single and doing things alone, making decisions are very easy and/or simple. While at the Fair, I just go and do quickly with no discussions and disagreements on what to do or EAT next. There are always trad-offs!

TEMPTATION BE DAMNED/ I WALKED ON BY!

      One evening this past week, I decided to make some enchiladas which I enjoy on occasion. One thing that sounded real good to go along with my meal were some tortilla chips. After all, that usually is standard procedure at most Mexican eateries. Get you started with that big bowl of chips and a little salsa. 

       I just knew, though, if I bought that bag of tortilla chips, I wouldn't just eat a few and I would have some for later which right now, trying to lose weight, I didn't need. I was really proud of myself that I was able to walk right by that tempting chip rack. After all, if I don't have it around etc!

A BEAUTIFUL DAY FOR THE IA STATE FAIR!

      I'm trying to hold my enthusiasm, but, by mid-afternoon I will be headed to Des Moines for where it is happening this week in the state of Iowa. At 9AM there are clear blue skies and temperatures to be only in the 70's. 

        I intend to just take my time in getting there, parking in my usual off  fair ground area of Des Moines Street on a locals front yard. First order will be eating my favorite Fair sandwich, the "Gizmo!" Then, who knows. A stroll through the Varied Industries Bldg., a look at the Big Pig and the Livestock area, up the hill for a sweep through the Cultural Building, and then a ride at dusk on the overhead Chairlift Glider for a beautiful view of the Grand Concourse.

         I just hope I don't chicken out on staying later to watch the Tribute Pink Floyd Band at the Mid-American free stage! On the way home, I hope my Chicago Cubs can win one for me! Even if they lose, nothing can spoil one of my favorite events of the year!

       

OH BY THE WAY--25 lbs. GONE!

        I am pleased that as of yesterday, I reach my next goal of losing 25 lbs. It has taken me since April 12th to get here with a few ups and downs, but, hopefully it will stick. Oh, by the way this afternoon I am headed to the Iowa State Fair. Wish me luck!

IS THIS A GREAT COUNTRY OR WHAT?

      It seems like lately that many of the trivial conversations at the Burg Grocery revolves around the argument of which peach is better the Missouri or the Colorado. Like anything everyone has an opinion. I even took home one evening one ripe peach each and had my own taste test. 

           It was a close call as they were both juicy and had a very delicious taste. "Too close to call!" But, like I always point out to customers, isn't it great to live in a country where we can stand around an argue about the "virtues" of a peach!

MY MOM--"OH BY THE WAY!"

       Usually while talking to my mom years ago on the telephone she would talk about various subjects in a nonchalant basis then out of nowhere would come the --"Oh, by the way" phrase, and, I knew it would be followed by something bad.

         That phrase would be followed by-- "So and so just passed away" or something else of a very bad nature. Why or how she she could hold on to such sad news until later in a conversation always perplexed me to a certain extent. With me and knowing such news I have to get it  out immediately!   
     
       

EVENING DOWN MEMORY LANE W/ FRIENDS

        This past Tuesday evening, August 8, 2017,  good friends and old classmate,Jerry and Judy Roberts joined me for evening dinner at Jesse's Embers on Ingersoll Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. 

        I hadn't been there for several years and as far back as the mid 1970's, it used to be one of my favorite eating and  cock-tail hour places. Through the years it's reputation has maintained to a very high level even with new ownership. 

        It was a great feeling to walk into this eatery and know that the size and layout of the interior had not changed in 40 plus years. The place is fairly small in size and has never enlarged with only updated decorating. The food is still superb as was the service.

       Even the bread was fresh and soft along with the "soft" butter in small crocks. Touches like that make a place in my estimation. My walleye was also a home run as was my Greek salad.  Just like the Maid Rite or Zeno's in Marshalltown, it is always a good feel to go back to our home town and know there is one of our favorite places that is still there waiting for us just as we remembered it.  

SPEAKING OF HOT STUFF!

     I just told the story about the lady eating "too hot to handle" soup, at least for her. I'm also one of those people who is not a big fan of spicy hot food. However, there was a hot item that I loved that was "discreetly" hot.

       The restaurant is no longer in existence, but, there was an eatery called "Mustard's" last operating in Windsor Heights, Iowa. I loved going there from as early as the late 1960's when it first opened Forrest Avenue near what was Harding Road and later became ML King Parkway.

         They made one of my favorite all time Burgers. The one I always purchased was called the Hungry Man Special. They mixed in the condiments finally chopped hot peppers. You really didn't taste or feel the heat as you were eating it.

          But, like a delayed reaction little beads of sweat would first appear on my forehead and then the hair on the back of my head would start dripping. My kids and later my grand-kids always loved waiting for the "show" to begin while staring at my head. That heat was delicious and yet didn't burn my mouth. Yum!

COMPETITION IN THIS CASE-- GOOD!

      We may or may not be on the dawn of electric cars. Tesla is planning on 5,000 affordable autos by the end of this year, 2017. But surprise, surprise, Mazda now say it has a new secret way to save fuel on existing gasoline engines. It says the new technology will save about 10 mpg.

        The technology probably has been laying in the weeds for a long time, but, until competition is on the horizon, then it becomes necessary to bring it out. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out. We are living in VERY interesting times! 
       

I CAN HANDLE HEAVY TRAFFIC BUT!

       This past Tuesday afternoon, August 8, 2017, I drove from Williamsburg to Urbandale, Iowa to meet up with long-time friends, Jerry and Judy Roberts for an evening dinner at Jesse's Ember's in Des Moines. 

          Driving I-80 west to Des Moines, the traffic seemed fairly heavy, but, steady. And, don't get me wrong, I don't mind heavier traffic as having lived in Des Moines for 30 years and traveling around the country through the years.

        But, now living in a small community where I drive maybe 10 blocks to a destination, I have geared down and become more accustomed to light traffic. Also, while on I-80, my mind kept flashing to western Nebraska where I drove through this early Spring. Especially, along the old Oregon trail  near Scottsbluff, where I didn't meet one car for miles.

       Maybe it is just age, somewhat, but, when I travel now I do try to avoid larger cities and travel during off- season when traffic is lighter. Don't  mis-understand me, I own a five speed car, still enjoy a little race along the way and the occasional thrill of some rush-hour traffic!

JUST PLAIN INCONSIDERATE/MEAN!

       A lady this past week at the Burg Grocery mentioned that she just visited her daughter and son-in-law in Des Moines, Iowa. Evidently, her son-in-law is a "gourmet" cook and plans a lot of "fancy" meal. This past week she was all ready to enjoy a simple cheese and broccoli  soup. 
                                                                                                                                                          
       The problem was he "heated" up the soup with hot peppers of some type! Why do a lot of these younger people and other crazies think it is so cool to pour the heat to various meals! Inconsiderate to say the least! 

LAKE TAHOE/ CAL or NEVADA?

       It's never to late to learn something? Right? Yesterday a lady came into the Burg Grocery with a T-shirt that said Lake Tahoe-California. I always knew that Lake Tahoe, Reno, and all were close to the Nevada and California border. 

         But, I didn't know until I checked it out by Googling that the lake is split down the middle-? by the state lines. Since I have not  ever traveled near that area, I plead ignorance. Hopefully, when I take my "Loneliest Road in America" trip next Spring, I will be better informed about other trivia.

REMEMBER THOSE FROSTY MALTS?

         A mother and her two youngsters checked out at the Burg Grocery and the kids were carrying Frosty Malts. It immediately took me back to another time`.

          After I graduated from Drake University, in Des Moines, Iowa, back in the late 1960's, I maintained season tickets for  Drake Bulldog basketball. The games then were played in Vet's Auditorium.

         One of the vendor's, that walked up and down the isles constantly,  was selling Frosty Malts and was constantly chanting---"Get your Frosty Malts-Malts-Malts!" After you bought one you would open up the cardboard lid, un-wrap the little wooden spoon, and then wait a short time for the ice-cream to melt a little. 

          But, not being very patient, I would start in digging the hard ice-cream and was always hoping that I didn't break that little spoon. By the time I got to the bottom of the container some time later,  the ice-cream had soften for the last two or three bites! What a great treat! 

CAN'T BEAT "PRIME RIB"--THAT PLACE!

       Last night I drove to my favorite Prime Rib destination-That Place on the corner near Conrad, Iowa. I keep thinking that I need to find, and I'm sure I could if I tried harder, a good prime rib joint somewhere closer to home here in eastern Iowa.

        But, in the meantime it still is a pleasure to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, listen to my Cubs win another one on the radio, cruise through Marshalltown to see what's new, and stop by for a  brother/sister chat with my sister Doris. Sometimes it's the simple things in life! 

MARSHMELLOWS & RACCOONS!

        Here's a new one at least for me. A guy came in to the Burg Grocery recently and purchased a package of marsh-mellows. No, he wasn't going to roast them over an open fire that night! He planned on putting them on his Raccoon Traps! Never too old to learn something new!

MODERATION DOESN'T SELL!

       I have always said that if anyone came out with a book about eating or exercising in moderation it would never sell. Recently, there was a column in the Des Moines Register entitled Too little exercise, too much: Polarized indeed--by Froma Harrop.

         To one extreme we have those that do very little exercising and those that are engaged in "killer workouts." Besides some people that have given up on themselves, there are those that are perfectionists and go all out and to extremes. 

         I go out every morning and "power walk" for 20-25 minutes. My younger sister has a goal of walking at least 10,000 steps a day. I am not convinced that we need to exercise to that extreme. It's just my opinion. A cardiologist, James O'Keefe, once said--"Darwin was wrong about one thing. It's not survival of the fittest but survival of the moderately fit." 

LAVONNE & YVONNE-NO HUMOR!

       Recently I returned a call to a customer and made the mistake of addressing her as Yvonne. She quickly corrected me that it was La Vonne and not Yvonne. I apologized and mentioned that my sister's name is Yvonne and another lady that I know is also named Yvonne. Besides, I told her that I'm sure she had been called worse! No response. Oh well! Some people just don't have a sense of humor. 

WHAT'S THE CHANCE-SLIM & NONE!

     Someone yesterday brought up a subject where the chance of it getting approved was very slim. Of course, it reminded me of an old saying that a  baseball broadcaster used during an argument between an umpire and a batter. 

        The commentator was Dizzy Dean a one time pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals. On one occasion Dizzy was heard saying during a home plate argument---"He (the batter) has two chances of winning the argument--Slim and None!" 

REMEMBER HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL?

       This past week-end while visiting my sister Doris, we were watching several old western TV shows and one was "Have Gun Will Travel." The main character was a guy named Paladin who was basically a gun for hire and of course a good guy!

          The show we watched had him fighting an Indian who really was a White guy raised by a certain Tribe. It was a fight to the death and, of course, Paladin won. When done, Paladin went inside and put on a clean shirt and his very clean hat. It was obvious that he was sweaty and very dirty after rolling around during the fight. 

        My only observation was---How could he put on a clean shirt  without bathing? Sometimes I wish I wouldn't notice such weird things while watching these old TV and Movies. Yuk!

        

BIG FAN OF DRAG RACING!

        Last week I was telling my mechanic about my attending the Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He chimed in about how his love for drag racing and that he loves attending the Drags at Cordova Drag Strip just up the Mississippi River on the Illinois side. Going to that Strip has been on my Bucket List for some time and do plan on going there yet this summer.

         My cousin, Larry Laverty, had gone there back in the 1950's or early 1960's and it always stuck in my mind as somewhere I wanted to go. The mechanic indicated a big event would be held on the week-end of August 26th, 2017. His reasoning for liking Drags rather than Oval racing was--"Usually you know the winner within 4 seconds!" He does have a valid point, but, NASCAR and INDY racing will still be my favorites! 

WOW! FREE POPCORN @ THE MOVIE!

        Every time I go to a movie in Corrallville, Iowa on a week-end AM for $5, I always pass up the popcorn and anything else from the concession stand due to sky-hi prices. This past Saturday while paying for my ticket to Dunkirk, the cashier asked me if I wanted a Rewards Card and if purchased, I would receive a free big sack of popcorn. I bit!

        When would I ever get a free popcorn again? Such a deal! It was very good, but, I do hope they don't think I'll be buying popcorn on a regular basis. Maybe if using this Rewards Card on a regular basis gets me a free admission to a movie maybe I'll buy a PC then!

WHEN $100 BOUGHT A LOT OF CLOTHES!

       This AM while cleaning windows for a clothing store at Tanger Outlet Mall here in Williamsburg, Iowa, I observed a mother buying and checking out with a big pile of clothes for her daughter

        It did remind me of years ago when I was a youth my mother taking me down to Wormhoudt's in Newton, Iowa. She would take me down to Newtown prior to school start in the fall for my new school wardrobe. I only assume she went there instead of Marshalltown like Gildner's, because maybe she could either get a better deal and/or find clothes that might be a little different than would other kids might be wearing.

        I do recall on one occasion the clerk adding a huge pile of clothes that my mom had purchased for me and it added up to just over $100. Wow! A $100. And, that included socks, underwear, shirts, pants, belts, sweaters and more. Also, I don't remember any stores having any big sales at that time of year.

       Although, the clothes that the mother purchased today might not have been that terrible relative to the 1950's with buying at a discount mall, reward cards, sales, and who knows what other kickers!  One thing for sure, I'm sure clothes back then were of better quality and lasted longer!