GREAT ADVICE FROM WISE WOMAN!

        Back in the late 1990's, I was giving thought to traveling to the Bahamas and staying at the famous Atlantis resort for a few days. It just seemed reasonable as something different to do as a bachelor. 

         I had met, at about that time, the daughter of a good customer of mine and we  became friends. When she learned that I was giving thought to my Bahama plans, she posed the following question or thought.

       Her logic was  why go somewhere on vacation and as a destination that is "Man Made."  Her thinking was when there are so many places to travel to and see that are natural why waste your time on places like I was considering or the likes of Las Vegas. 

           I always remembered what she said and since then most of my destinations and traveling involves around that natural beauty--don't make me list them all! Don't get me wrong, I go the "Big" city on occasion and take in an event of some kind. I guess I'm glad I did the "Big City" scene when I was younger and have no regrets. Good Bye Las Vegas--probably never again! 

MY LAST MEAL!

          On the way back from my western states trip, it dawned on me that the last day and at lunch should be a big ol' steak. I'm not exactly sure where it was, but, somewhere east of Denver I found the perfect place for my "Last Meal" before coming home. 

         The place was a rustic looking cowboy bar and grill , but very clean and with the local patron traffic at noon time, it seemed like a good choice. My order was a very thick sirloin steak, medium rare to perfection, a crispy salad from a salad bar with fresh choices, and homemade mashed potatoes with a huge cube of butter.

         When they bring with your steak one of those huge steak knives, you know they are serious. In talking to my server, she informed me that she and her husband owned the` restaurant and he does his own butchering! Micky D--eat your heart out! 

WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF IT EARLIER?

        It seems like no matter how old we get there is always  a situation where we say--"Why didn't I think of that before?" Well, one of those just happened just recently, but, I guess you can always say--"Better Late Than Never!"

         I started including on my advertising and business cards---Yes, We Clean Windows and Siding!" Since I stared doing that, I have been getting more siding cleaning than window cleaning. 

        People with metal siding recognize that siding gets dusty, dirty, mildew, moss--so on. It's easy work, for me, and actually makes better money for time spent than windows.  Again, never late than never!

YOU'DE THINK SOMEDAY I'DE LEARN?

       This morning I decided I was long overdue for my week-end movie at the Coralville Complex. There was nothing really on that I wanted to see, but, I had to see a movie on the big screen. So, I chose Dead Pool ll. 

         Didn't have a clue what the premise was, except it had something to do with Super Hero's and whatever. I will say that I lasted about 30 minutes before I walked out. I've always been one to give slap stick, spoof, weird humor, satire, but, I guess that last movie I enjoyed that was a new type of humor was "Airplane!"

         I did try. Somehow I was in doubt before I even entered the theater, but---!I hate to say it, but that window or door is really starting to shut more even when it comes to one of my favorite past-times! Maybe overall, it's time to purchase a much bigger TV, get back to my Netflix subscription, and also, on occasion, pull out some of my favorite "classics" from my "flick vault" and watch away. I'm still not giving up on the Big Screen just yet, though! 

      

      

1ST LADY INDY DRIVER-I WAS THERE/1977!

       It was Miss Janet Guthrie at the Indy 500 and the first lady driver there--1977. The big question prior to the race was what would Tony Hulman, owner of Indy 500 would say when introducing her. Hulman introduced Miss Guthrie with some words of praise and then said:  "GENTLEMEN START YOUR ENGINES!" Hulman stuck to tradition and the crowd when wild! Later, it did become Drivers Start Your Engines!

HATE TO THINK IT'S JUST AGE!

        Just an observation. I noticed that during my latest trip most of the usual routines that I do when traveling I do with more care, patience. , slower, and with more thought. I realize I physically move slower. But, I actually took the time to log, starting mileage, amount of gas/gallons, cost for each meal and lodging. I think I neglected to log something only once or so!

          It was a good feeling not to be always rushing around like I usually do. Generally, thinking through things before doing them and taking more time to just enjoy "the moment." Before leaving a motel room, making sure I slowly took a mental note of all items packed and not left behind. 

       I just hope that it is simply realizing that many trips are "limited" as the ol' door keeps closing a little more. It was a good feeling for me. But, I will say that the last leg through Kansas and knowing Home was near, my urgency mode was back to normal! PS I did leave a bottle of my favorite shampoo back in Utah, I believe. I didn't say it all worked out perfectly.

DENNIS' TOP USA SCENIC PICKS!

        The following list is my favorite scenic- "natural"  travel destinations or drives in the USA  and its contiguous 48 states. *Not necessarily in any order.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park-Colorado

2. Entire Oregon Coast Line

3. Entire Maine Coast Line

4. Niagra Falls-New York

5. Loneliest Road in America-Nevada*

6. Yosemite National Park-California

7. Zion National Park-Utah

8. Devil's Tower-Wyoming

9. Grand Canyon-Arizona

10. Sand Hills-Nebraska

11. Great Smoky Mountains-Tennessee & North Carolina

12. Pikes Peak Lookout-Mississippi River

       McGregor, Iowa

13. Death Valley National Park- California

14. Sequoia National Park-California

15. Great Sand Dunes National Park- Colorado
16. Grand Teton National Park-Wyoming
17. Multomah Falls & Columbia River Gorge-Oregon
18. North Shore Scenic Drive- Lake Superior-Minnesota
19. Black Canyon on the Gunnison National Park-Colorado
20. Bryce Canyon National Park-Utah

        

MAYBE TOO BIG A BITE!

        By the time I was headed back and on the last leg of my "Loneliest Road" trip, I did come to one conclusion. It was like I had Over Dosed on too much of a good thing. It was like I ordered a triple dip ice-cream cone and realized that two dips was all I could handle. 

           Maybe if I would have allowed more time to stop and spend more time at each individual destination I would have felt differently. Taking in so much scenic beauty at a somewhat "lightning speed" pace was a little much. 

        But, once I got back home, and some time had lapsed, I could see the trip with more clarity and have no regrets for taking on a very Big Bite!" I can't wait till my next travel adventure!  

OH, THOSE JOSHAUA TREES!

          Coming back from my Road Trip this past week, I did get tangled up going through Las Vegas due to an accident and road construction. I found myself heading SW on I-15 to Los Angeles. I finally got off my mis-direction and on a lesser traveled stretch found my way back to I-40  east and heading toward back home. 

          On the road that concerned me due to its seclusion turned out to be one of the more scenic stretches on my travel. It was loaded on both sides of the road and as far as you could see were Joshaua Trees--big ones, young ones, and tall ones. I did find out that I was quite a ways north of Joshua Tree National Park. It just amazes me of all the beauty that surrounds us in this country!   

DEATH VALLEY --QUITE BEAUTIFUL!

       In 1979-80, I remember driving through Death Valley California and recall seeing several huge sand dunes and long stretches of highway in what you think of as desert--so I thought.

          This past week, I drove down on I-395 and entered Death Valley from the west at Cartago and then exited at Death Valley Junction and on to I-95 and down to Las Vegas. This time and the route I took, had me going up into mountains and some quite beautiful terrain. 

            I think years ago, only a south portion of Death Valley was traveled on the way to the LA area or just thinking that I was going through there, but, really maybe the "Twilight Zone!" No matter. Both times have left me with very fond memories of this desolate yet beautiful area. 

A NIGHT AT TOPEZ LAKE

         This is one of those shut the door--open the window stories. It was Friday evening, 5/18/2018, and I was attempting to get a room at a Holiday Inn south of Carson City, Nevada. They were totally booked, but, the lady clerk must have felt pity for this old man and referred me a few miles south to a Best Western Lodge. 

          The location was in Topez Lake, a made man lake of some size and with a range of snow peaked mountains behind and to the southeast. The lodging was newer, quite nice, and not all that expensive considering my stunning view. Sometimes, Lady Luck or my Guardian Angel does take over and looks after me!   

BREATHLESS--REALLY!

         Years ago, when my kids were in high school, we snow skied in Colorado many times during Spring Break. The high altitude always affected my breathing to the extent that I would have to take an extra deep gulp of air every so often. At that time in the late 1970's and in my 30's, I chalked it up to the fact that I was a smoker.

         Now, I suppose I need to factor in age and not smoking as I haven't had a puff in a couple of decades. But, spending so much time on this trip in altitudes of 6500 ft. and higher, I did seem to struggle with breathing fairly frequently--especially at night in bed.

           The one time I was quite concerned was when I reached the entrance to Yosemite National Park in California. It's posted at the entrance that it is right at 10,000 feet. At one point I did feel very light headed and was worried that I could actually pass out. I was never so glad to descend and get myself back down to where I was a little more comfortable. Maybe I will need to start carrying some oxygen along next time.

80 MPH-- OH BOY!

       This is just a footnote to my travels out west this past week. Along different highways in Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, where the posted speed limit is upwards of 75-80 MPH, it was fun to kick it up a little. 

        It's amazing that when you are traveling in areas with wide open spaces for miles, how easily it is to move along at those speeds and only seem like your going 50 or 60 MPH. Although, even while traveling through long stretches of  the "Loneliest Road" area, I tried to keep my speed down simply to just enjoy the surrounding beauty!

AUSTRALIAN BIKER ACROSS USA

         I hit the "Historical" town of Eureka half way through Nevada just about lunchtime. There weren't many choices in this half vacant old western oasis in the middle of no where. A lot of the buildings were cool and some right out of an old western movie--just worn out and deserted.

       I opted for the only old log cabin style bar and grill. It appeared to be "the" place for the locals to unwind on a Saturday night--wherever the locals were! The eating side was at least "non-smoking" with descent food and good service.

          While waiting for my order of food , I struck up a conversation with a couple of traveling bicyclists and one who was from Australia and riding all the way to Virginia. They were progressing about 60-70 miles a day and felt quite good about it. I always love listening to accents of people from different parts of the country or world, especially when they sound like Crocodile Dundee! 

RUNNING OUT OF GAS --NOT WHERE EXPECTED!

       Everyone was warning me about running out of gas when I was traveling the 400-500 mile stretch on the Loneliest Road. I usually filled up every chance I got and one time even at $4.00 a gallon I topped off at $6.00 worth. 

       Then, coming up I-25 from Trinidad, Colorado to Pueblo, Colorado, I must have just spaced out and looked down and I had only about 60 miles left worth of gas. And, there were no exits in sight except one little town ahead that gave me doubts. 

     With luck be have it, I rolled into an old fashion gas station where they actually still fix tires and had a mechanic. To boot, the gas was under $3.00 a gallon. What a relief it was to pull in there and hear that old fashion "ding ding" as you passed over that rubber hose in the drive!

TRAVELING FREE LANCE VS TECHNOLOGY!

        I may be one of the last travelers that doesn't rely on technology to get around. When, on a trip like my venture Out West, I relied solely on a big ol' Atlas. Probably will till they take my license away from me. Besides, I have always contended that you can get a bigger picture of whats ahead in front of you. 

          The one thing I may have to change is making reservations ahead with lodging. I love traveling off-season as in early to mid May as the summer crowd is not on the road yet and in mountain areas the ski bunch have usually gone home.

           But, when traveling to higher populated areas just winging it didn't seem to work too well at least on this trip. On two occasions, I was told that a particular Inn had no vacancy, but, luckily for me they referred me on ahead to another lodge and all was well. 

           Another big factor, I only surmised, is that more and more people are using there mobile devices, apps and all, and making reservations ahead after calculating time and miles to their next destination and as to not take chances of a NO Vacancy. I may have to think about changing my ways or not!

WAKE ME FOR ROYAL WEDDING!

        After arriving at my Best Western Inn at Topaz Lake on the Nevada-California border, on Friday evening, May 18. 2018, I made a call to my friend and old Laurel classmate, Tony Preston who now resides in Prescott, Arizona.

          He didn't answer due to the late hour, but, I left a message, humor in mind,  that I hoped he would give me a wake-up call for the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan at the early hour of 3-4AM. Well, I never did get a call back from Tony, but, somehow I woke up just before the wedding started. 

          I made a little coffee, sat back and totally enjoyed the entire wedding. I was especially touched by the singing by the chorus of Stand By Me which was originally done by Ben E. King back in the 1950's. I still possess an original 45 record of that tune!

THE LONELIEST ROAD--CONTINUED- part 2

       Most scenic drives that are throughout the USA always seem to be with a lot of twists and turns. Some that come to mind that I have been on include---The Road to Hanna in Maui, Hawaii, a scenic route through the Black Hills, the Maine Coast, Independence Pass near Aspen, Colorado, or Cleveland National Park in California.

         Most of these beautiful and scenic drives can leave you nauseous and begging to be let out or off--especially the Road to Hanna. This drive or stretch of road is just the opposite and is almost like sitting in this huge "Surround Movie Theater!"

       First, most of the way, the roads are straight which allows you to just sit there and take in all the panoramic beauty that is displayed  before you. Who would have ever thought that you could come through MULTIPLE passes and be faced with ranges of snow capped mountains as far as the eye could see in both directions along with valleys and/or basins that never seemed to end with natural vegetation.

          It didn't just end with one or two passes--try multiple times over and over and just letting me sit back and glance back and forth taking in all in with amazement while each time voicing out load another---"OOH and AAH!"

           Most of the official 400 mile Drive was untouched and most passes took you up to 6500-7500 feet, but, negotiating each pass with such gentle ease ascending and descending. The all day journey finally ended for me at Fallon, Nevada, just east of Reno, Nevada.

           I was so sorry to have it all end, especially, originally thinking I was going to be so disappointed. It turned out to be the longest, most pleasurable, panoramic,and visual drive, mile for mile that I have ever taken in the USA not including Alaska. Yes, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Now its time to head south through Carson City, Nevada and on to Yosemite National Park.    

THINNEST PUBLISHED PAMPHLET!

THE GREATEST JEWISH SPORTS LEGENDS.

THINNEST PUBLISHED BOOK ENTITLED--

          300 YEARS OF GERMAN HUMOR!         

WHERE THE DEER AND THE-----!

        On my trip west this past week, starting May 16, 2018, I was getting into eastern Wyoming pretty good on I-80 when I started to notice lots of Deer. Then, I started seeing a few Antelope here and there. Before I knew it, I was singing "Home, Home, on the Range!! Always wondered where that song got its start!

LITTLE KNOWN FACTS ON WYOMING

      The first night,Wednesday May 16, 2018,  of my Loneliest Road trip was spent in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Posted on several overhead signs along the interstate in Wyoming was the fact--"Wyoming 1st state to grant women the right to vote!" 

       Another reason you have to like Wyoming is that it is the least populated state in the USA. And, learning from a gentleman while having my evening meal at a local Village Inn on "Free Pie Wednesday," was that the largest employer in the city area is Francis Warren Air Force Base.

 You can always learn something by just asking a total stranger on occasion. Silence is not always golden!  Oh by the way--I had my slice of free cherry pie w/ a topping of vanilla ice-cream at no extra charge! Life is good!

       

THE LONELIEST ROAD/PANORAMIC BEAUTY!

    There are some things in life that we look forward to that don't meet our expectations and we walk away very disappointed. "The Loneliest Road in America" drive went way beyond my expectations and then some!

        Many years ago, I read an article in the Des Moines Register about a group of "Bikers" who rode through the "Loneliest Road in America" and were quite impressed. They also finalized their journey on the Oregon Coast and for whatever reason it stuck with me and a few years ago did travel the entire Oregon Coast and will probably never experience such Coastal Beauty again in my lifetime. Besides, it totally intrigued me when after asking dozens of people through the years that never heard of it, I had to go!

          The Loneliest Road was put on top of my "Bucket List" in 2018. The morning of Thursday, May 17th, 2018, I was ready to embark on my much awaited adventure across an unknown landscape! I awoke early that morning in my motel room and in the town of Nephi, Utah, just south of Salt Lake City, near highway Federal 6/50. 

         On awakening, I had my doubts about the trip. What if it was a big "flop" and was nothing but 500 miles of just flat, baron, wasteland. Like most of us, I couldn't get out of my mind that most of Nevada was just flat terrain that was used my the military for bomb testing. And, what if true and I became bored or frustrated, there was no easy way of escaping  to a nearby interstate. 

           Besides, I had to travel close to 100 miles just to get to the Utah/Nevada border before officially being on my way. By the time I had reached Delta, Nevada, I realized that with what I had seen,  maybe my 400 mile journey would have been  worth the wait!

---------------------------------to be continued!

              

TRAVELING & FUN AT LUNCHTIME!

      It was probably in  New Mexico,  I don't really remember. All I know it was getting close to lunchtime and my mind started wandering to the WHAT! Most people probably just know they are hungry and start looking for a place to eat. 

       This day it was a hot dog and a chocolate malt. I knew nothing else would be OK. I was focused and to my very good luck up ahead at an exit or two was a D.Q. Hallelujah! It has always been a part of a vacation/traveling. For me, it's looking forward to something "special" and /or a special place for meal time. Those few moments of savoring that meal was so special! 

REMEMBER TEQUILA by the CHAMPS!

FUNNIEST SIGN EVER!

       After a pit stop near Winslow, Arizona, I had gone into the restroom at another Love's Travel Stop and noticed the following homemade sign taped to the mirror above the sinks. "Please do not wash your dishes in the sink!"

          I mentioned to the cashier/attendant that I understood why the sign was posted, besides just being funny to me, I had  never seen such a sign in many many years of traveling. So, if you are out there traveling in your big ol' RV, stop with the dish washing at the Truck Stop already. Funny! 

A FIRST AFTER ALL THESE YEARS!

      While stopping for a gas stop at  "Love's Travel Center" in Wyoming this past week, I saw and heard something totally new to me. I was inside this facility, when I first heard this announcement over the intercom--"Customer #3 shower #2 is ready." There was also a "Reservation Board" with the information posted.

          The auto and truck stop offers free showers for truckers on what basis I didn't find out. I have been in truck stops where there are showers, but, just never seen a system set up just like Baskin and Robbins with a ticket and number! Gee, maybe a need to check it out and avoid a motel on occasion while traveling--probably not!

A PATRIOTIC SLOGAN SEEN ON THE ROAD!

      While traveling on I-80 west, this past week, I saw the following banner on the side of a semi-trailer.  "LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE!!

REMEMBER WHITE RABBIT/JEFFERSON AIRPLANE?

REMEMBER-HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE-CCR?

"WE'RE NOT IN KANSAS ANYMORE-DOROTHY!"

       Yesterday afternoon, when I reached Kearny, Nebraska, which I consider the "Entrance" to "Out West" I stopped there for gas and a cup of coffee. I asked how much for the coffee in my special cup and his reply was "eight bits!" I really didn't compute that he meant $1.00. I've heard 2 bits, 4 bits, and 3 bits, but----!

        Then has I turned to leave after paying, I heard one guy ask another "If he had caught any RATTLESNAKES at his house last night?" I knew I wasn't in Iowa any longer---cool! And, here I am walking around with my old flip flops. Maybe I better be looking for some cowboy boots?!

DAY 2-LONELIEST ROAD!

      I spent my first night in Cheyenne, the Capital of Wyoming. Am looking forward to traveling to my next leg, Slat Lake City, Utah and driving some territory, from Cheyenne till there, that I have never seen before. Plus, those big beautiful Rockies will be visible from here on and look forward to with much anticipation. 

         

DAY 1-"LONELIEST ROAD IN AMERICA!"

        On the road again! My plan for the first leg, 5/16/2018, and day  is to reach nearby Cheyenne, Wyoming. Once I reach (Fort) Kearny, Nebraska, I have always felt that I am officially "Out West."  Many times on the way to Colorado, I couldn't wait to get through Nebraska. 

        Now, after traveling through the Sand Hills of Northwest Nebraska, I embrace all the beauty that is all around in that part of the state. Besides, you know that it only gets better and better as you ravel west! So, let's Giddy Up-just me and my XM Radio!

THE ONE I LET GET AWAY!

        Her name was Penny. She was a blue eyed, chestnut  blonde beauty. A little of Jane Fonda and Elisabeth Montgomery. When she walked into a room every head turned. Bright, energetic, gifted in so many ways and loving!

       We first met on a warm summer evening at a party that a couple of friends and I had put on at park in Urbandale, Iowa. It was 1976, I believe, and most guests were invited or had paid by tickets that we had sold to cover the food, drink, and entertainment. Somehow, Penny crashed and I was glad she did. 

       Our timing was not the best. From that night on, we started seeing each other on a regular basis and became very serious about one another. One issue she saw coming as an obstacle with our relationship was that I was in the process of purchasing/building a home with a good friend, Bob Merritt. 

        Her intuition was correct in that I had only been divorced for less than a year and my feelings were that it was too soon to commit again despite my very strong feelings for her. And, I wanted to experience bachelorhood for awhile as I had gotten married originally at such a young age. 

          Our last evening together was very romantic, complete with a candle lit dinner that she had prepared  at her lovely home on Douglas Avenue in northwest Des Moines, Iowa.  The following day was one of the most stressful and difficult days in my life because I knew I had to break our relationship off. 

           A few times, even after my second marriage, we met for lunch and that was all. They say timing is everything. I will never know if we would have met sooner or possibly after I had been single for a year or two longer. I'll will never know.

---originally written summer of 2011.

IMMIGRATION/ALWAYS MODERATION!

        I get tired of all the rhetoric about whether we should let immigrants in on any basis even unskilled or  just on a skilled basis. One side chimes in by saying that most of our ancestors came over un-skilled.

           Yes, that is true, but, it was a time a century and a half ago when most people were unskilled and a vast number were engaged in agriculture in some way. Besides, even true today, if you are well established and doing very well in another country why come here? 

         To me, it always comes down to moderation. We always have room for both skilled and the very skilled, talented, and gifted. But, we cannot take on the whole world and let everyone in. Maybe it's time that we attempt to assist these countries more that are struggling,  so that their citizens can stay put!  

RAIN ON A SUNNY DAY?

        Yesterday, while visiting with a Laurel native, he mentioned that he still was involved with some volunteer work at the Boy Scout Camp Matigwa near Boone, Iowa. I mentioned that I had attended the camp back in the 1950's. And, one memory I had while walking toward the PX building was looking up and realizing it was raining and there were no clouds overhead.

         While driving home later from Marshalltown, Iowa, the song came on my radio by Creedence Clearwater Revival---"Have You Ever Seen The Rain Comin' Down On a Sunny Day?" I'm always intrigued when coincidences  like that happen close together!  

A FUNNY SIGHT IN MARSHALLTOWN, IOWA!

       After getting off highway 30 at the Center Street/highway 14 exit, I was headed to Mitchell's Funeral Home for the Viewing of my cousin, Larry Laverty. As I drove by McDonald's, I glanced over and there sat a long stretch limousine with the driver standing by its side.

         For some reason I just had to chuckle as it just didn't seem right if it was some big fancy, special occasion and you're all dolled up and in Mickey D's eating a Big Mack! Maybe after paying for the Limo the guy didn't have much money left for anything else! 

THE TOILET PAPER TISSUE ISSUE!

       The whole toilet paper buying nightmare came to light on Facebook this past week. It used to be a fairly simple buying experience for me in that I always bought a certain brand, two-ply of course, and a certain amount per package.

       Anymore, I regret that I don't have along a calculator. And, one of the last times I went I took a chance on a huge pack of the store brand that was also on sale. Then, the last time I went I wasn't sure which one I bought or price,etc. I also forget then what major brand I had bought before.

        In summary to this fiasco, the other day I was looking over all choices and I wanted to just let out a big scream. It seems there were more sizes per brand,  and most all seemed to be on sale. Then one gets real paranoid wondering about the tissues per roll, square feet, and cubic feet. Then what if all the tissue sizes aren't the same?


         I'm now thinking I should have paid more attention in some of my Math classes in high school. Life is too short and getting shorter. I can't spend this much time contemplating toilet paper! Next time--shut my eyes, pick one out and get out of there!

THREE DAYS TILL--"ON THE ROAD AGAIN!"

NEVER TELL WHEN LEAVING ON VACATION-- UNLESS!

       I'll be leaving soon for my Bucket List of the Year Trip--"The Loneliest Road in America" with a few exciting side trips along the way. Everyone always says that we should never put on Social Media when we are leaving, etc, for security reasons. 

      I don't really care. I not only have a next door neighbor who keeps a sharp eye out when I'm gone, and, I also have someone who drives by daily along with our local "Fuzz."

       But, most importantly, a friend that I have gotten to know, since he moved here to the "Burg" from the East Coast, sits with my kitty "Tommy" in my absence. My friend, Lennie Rigatoni, moved here mysteriously about two years ago. He had worked for his "Family" in the Newark, New Jersey area and was employed by them in the "Refuse Business"  and was a "Labor Negotiator!"

        I love his personality and his tenderness around my Tommy. Even though he speaks with this heavy "New Jersey/Brooklyn" accent, and his appearance can be somewhat intimidating with his big bulky frame and crooked nose, he is really a "Pussycat!" I'm so happy to have a good friend like Lennie looking after my interest while I'm on Holiday!  

BLAME JUPITER & VENUS FOR GLOBAL WARMING?

       There was an article in the USA TODAY, 5/9/18, section of the Des Moines Register concerning The article states that every 405,000 years, gravitational tugs from the planets, Jupiter and Venus, gradually affect Earth's climate and life forms, according to a new study published Monday. With this type of cycle going on maybe we are now there and this why we are having crazy weather! I found this study interesting and yet with some humor!

LARRY T. LAVERTY-MEMORIES OF A COUSIN

        LARRY  T. LAVERTY 9/27/1939--5/7/2018

           I want to share some of my fondest and warmest memories of my cousin, Larry Thomas Laverty, only son of Thomas L. and Glatha Laverty. Larry and I grew up south of Laurel, Iowa only one mile apart on family farms. 

          During Larry's high-school days, he made sure to include his four year younger cousin on many of his social events and week-end outings. He was like a big brother that I never had and was always kind and patient and never a harsh word.

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• His love for cold pizza that following morning.
• When being bullied at school, he acted as my Protector.
• Riding with him in the "Family Jeep" around and hunting for "Grinnies."
• Seeing him standing on the sideline at a Laurel high school football game with his helmet  and face mask slid up.
• His new 1956 two-toned( yellow and black) Chevy Impala
• His very cool all black 1958 Chevy two-Door Hardtop with that big V-8.
• The metal plaque hanging by chain on the back of his car with "Road Saints" Laurel's local car club.
• Taking the Four Mile right angle corner south of Laurel on highway #14 in his Volkswagen Beatle" at over 45 MPH with no seat belts, but, knowing he would do it.
• Going with him on a Saturday morning to Newton at the Chevrolet  Dealer where my brother-in law, Clyde Eddy, worked as an auto mechanic. 
• In my sophomore year, convincing the football coach that I could run really fast and would be better as a back than my older cousin, Larry, an outstanding Center/Lineman.
• Spending an over-night at Larry's and listening to songs like "Mello Yellow" on his 45' record player.
• Proud of my cousin's many  Conservation awards when farming after his graduation at Iowa State University.
• Double dating one evening with Larry, Kay, his future wife, and a friend of Kay's.
• Watching him while he worked on an old 32 Ford Coup in the "shop" on our Grandpa Laverty's farm south of Laurel and adjacent to Larry's home. 
• Thinking how cool he looked and not really out of place when he bought and wore a heavy black leather jacket with lots of pockets and zippers.  

             Even though we grew apart as we became adults, I never stopped thinking of him with so many  good memories. He was an intelligent and gifted in so many ways, but, most of all I am proud to say he was my "Cousin." You will always be with me, your cousin, Dennis! 

HE HUNG UP ON THE BIG SHOT!

           This story came to light as I was talking to an old employee from my Allied Mutual days in Des Moines, Iowa back in the late 1960's and early 1970's. It had to do with a new auto underwriting employee who was talking on the telephone with one of our "Top 50 Agents from northern Iowa.

         The conversation was getting quite heated as it had to do with a piece of business that the young underwriter had turned down. All of a sudden the young guy told the seasoned agent that "This conversation has come to an end!" And, he hung up on the agent.

       Well, the agent called back in an complained to the Branch Manager about the incident. The young underwriter got his "chewing out" but, the Branch Manager, privately, was getting quite a laugh of the whole thing!  I knew the agent from northern Iowa and everyone loved that this young underwriter got the best of someone who all knew could very difficult to deal with to say the least! 

PREFER ENHANCE OR EMBELLISH OR--

       ------why I like Trump! My daily entertainment is watching these numb-skulls on cable TV going ballistics over every little move that President Trump does or makes. Maybe some or a lot of what he says are "lies" or stretching the truth. 

              For a few of reasons I can really relate to him. First, I have always rooted for the under-dog, maverick, outtsider, misfit, lone wolf, or non-conformist. I have always thought of myself a little outside the norm and have always been attracted to that type of person as a friend. 

        Secondly, when I used to sell real-estate back in the 1970's and 1980's, enhancing and embellishing were a part of every day dealings and most of the people in the real estate business were outgoing and sometimes we all stretched the truth some, but, wouldn't like to think that we lied on an every day basis. 

       Third, I will admit I am hooked on all this political nonsense that we witness on CNN, MSNBC, and FOX. For me it's entertainment--something I look forward to each morning while getting ready for my "Normal" day to start. For me, to watch an early morning debate between a commentator and political foe gets the old blood flowing! No Soap Opera can match what we are witnessing today!

LAWYERS LICKING THEIR CHOPS W/ GOTCHA!

     If you don't have anything to hide why not testify? That question has been tossed around hundreds of times with the Mueller/Trump fiasco! First, we all have watched enough TV Lawyer related shows--Law & Order, Matlock, Perry Mason, LA Law and so on. And, we know that a good lawyer can take a simple question and twist it, asked several questions quicker than you can respond or think, using double negatives--all to confuse you. 

        They could ask--"Do you love your mother and turn it in to a lie some`how!" Secondly, we all know that somebody like Perry Mason would have his witness screaming or bawling like a baby of his or her guilt!

GIVE P.H.A.T. DADDY'S A TRY!

          This past week there was an article from the Des Moines Register about the Top 10 pizza joints around Iowa. I'm not going to say that one I ate at last week should be on that list, but, it was really good. 

          It's called P.H.A.T. Daddy's in Amana and just down the street from the long time and historical Ox Yoke Inn. Their pizza is New York Style Plus in that it is very thin and it is wood fired in an oven. For years they were in Marengo until moving to Amana a few years ago. They also have an outstanding Sunday Brunch. If visiting the area or need a suggestion for lunch while shopping at "Tangers" here you go!

TOMORROW MAY NEVER COME!

        In connecting with an old employee from my Allied Mutual days as an Underwriter in Des Moines, Iowa, reminded me of another special fellow employee that I worked with very closely.

       His name was "Les" and when I stared working there back in the late 1960's, he was very near retirement. He could always tell you almost to the day how long he had until his last day. 

         The lesson I learned from him was the old expression about "Smelling the roses along the way!" He and his wife, Lucille, who also worked there, were close to "workaholics" and you could find both of them there at the office every day of the week including most Saturdays. 

        The thing that Les talked about frequently was that they planned to build a home when they retired on a private lake here in Iowa. Lucille was 64 years old when she passed away. Les was obviously devastated and  it took him some time to recover from his loss.

         Throughout my life, I have smelled those roses and if I were to leave this planet tomorrow, I would be OK. Don't get me wrong, there is much I would still like to do and accomplish, but, to those of you out there are just waiting around "UNTIL" my advice is get going because tomorrow may never come!

PREDICTION!

        Within 30-45 days, Stormy the Sleaze and her ambulance chasing attorney will disappear into a dark filthy alley and will never be seen again every day on every news channel on the planet!

ONE REASON NEVER PLAYED GOLF!

        The following is not the only reason I never played golf with any regularity in my lifetime, just a funny memory of a few golf outings. When I did play when I was younger, I wasn't all that bad, but, just never made or found the time on a constant basis to keep it up and become better. Selling real-estate never seemed to allow a specific time to play although I played with my son when he was a young boy for a time.

         During my first marriage, we had a couple that we did things with socially and one thing the husband and I did a few times was play a round of golf or two. "Dick" was an above average player and when we were playing he was always attempting to give me tips or ideas on how to do "whatever" better. I know his`intentions were good, but, it always made me nervous and self- conscious! I think it made matters worse. 

         One thing I did play for a time was tennis. I was descent and the nice thing about tennis, it didn't take as long to play as golf. I have no regrets that I didn't become a "golfer" like so many that I know have. Other passions have given me great pleasure, especially later in life, like writing, traveling, attending sporting events of grand-children and my Iowa Hawkeyes. And, attending an auction now and then with a mix of selling/buying a "Collectible" or two.

YES! WE DO WINDOWS.

        Someone yesterday asked me how I came up with the name of my window cleaning business. I was happy to explain that years ago I had seen the idea on a sit-com on TV. A lady was interviewing for a home cleaning position and she concluded by saying:  "Now remember, I don't do windows!" I just thought it would be clever by turning that around and so I call it--"YES! WE CLEAN WINDOWS. Now you know the rest of the story.

CLINKER/GRABBER STORY!

    Last night while taking part in a Flea Market/Antique in South Amana, Iowa, I saw a man walking away with a long metal"Clinker-Coal Grabber." I hadn't seen one of those since I lived on the family farm 3 1/2 miles south of Laurel,Iowa back in the early 1960's. 

      When I was a young boy, it was one of my jobs to go down to the basement and fill the stoker with coal into the feeder. Then I would take the "Clinker/Grabber" and pull out the clinkers from the furnace and put the hard ash in a bucket and carry out and spread out onto the drive-way.

THE BIG COMBOVER

      This past week I connected with an fellow employee from Allied Mutual days in Des Moines, Iowa, back in the 1960's and early 70's. He mentioned another mutual employee who was partially bald and always combed the hair from the sides of his head and combed it over---way over!

        It was always funny when we walked to downtown Des Moines at lunch time from the office at 701 5th Avenue up near Vet's Auditorium. On a windy day this poor guy was constantly pulling his hair his head with his hand. Although he was not considered a handsome man, I think he would have looked much better by just "whacking it all off!"


           

GERMANS NOT FUNNY!

      Last night, I watched an old Johnny Carson re-run and Bob Newhart was a guest and one of my favorite all time favorite comedians. They began talking about their heritage and Bob indicated he was three quarters Irish and one quarter German. 

       Newhart went on about how "Literal" the Germans are and gave the example with a little German accent. The Germans don't find it funny why we call a bald guy "Curly" or a 300 pound man "Tiny!"  I'm glad that I'm half Irish and one quarter each German and English. I'm glad that my Irish, at least with humor, over-rides the other half of me!

          

YOUNG LADY DOESN'T DO WINDOWS!

        This past week while doing inside windows at the Amana Retirement Campus, a young lady, employee, was in the room working with a resident. She mentioned that she had never cleaned windows, at least on the outside of her home and wouldn't know how to go about it!

           The remark really didn't surprise me as I believe there are lots of things the younger generations don't do as we once did. In defense of younger ones today, it seems that with working moms, and all the outside activities of their kids, they have time to even relax. It was kind of funny!

VACATION TRAVELING-EAT OUT!

       It seems every time I go on a automobile vacation or trip, I'm always packing some type of food item--like brownies. I always fill a small cooler with bottled water or some Diet Coke. The idea is you always have a refreshment on hand and it saves you a little money!

          My trip coming up in a couple of weeks, I'm not preparing a darn thing except the beverages--maybe! I could be stranded somewhere for a few days and not starve and if I went down a ravine somewhere out in the mountains, I probably couldn't get to anything because like an idiot I put most everything in the trunk for safety purposes.

      No, I think this trip I will concentrate on finding yummy places to eat and when I'm thirsty stop at a convenience store when getting re-fueled, check things out and purchase it there. Besides. I do like to stop more often than the average guy and relax a little. What's the big hurry. My whole trip is about the "journey" and not the destination in of its self! To be technical, the destination would be back home and I won't be in a hurry to do that! 

         

WOULDN'T MISS LAUREL REUNION FOR THE WORLD!

      Yesterday I received in the mail the invitation to the Laurel All School reunion to be held Saturday, June 9, 2018, at the Laurel Methodist Church.  First, it is to be held at noon this year instead of the evening as most prior years. (Last year it was held at lunch time in Haverhill, Iowa)
That is a great idea to have it at noon as guests won't, possibly, feel the pressure to leave and get home too late.

       Secondly, last year the meal was on a Pot Luck basis for the first time in my memory. Although, I do know Pot Lucks were popular many many years ago. The food last year was absolutely SPLENDOROUS-outstanding even! My only thought after the meal last year was why didn't sometime suggest this many years ago. 

        I'm sure one argument was that people coming from long distances shouldn't have to bring anything and try to keep it fresh. I bought a ticket to the Senator Joni Ernest Bash in Boone, Iowa that same day. Bye-Bye Joni! I wouldn't miss this homemade smorgasbord experience for anything-well almost anything!    

TRIBUTE TO FATS DOMINO!

      I saw in the Des Moines Register this past week that the New Orleans Jazz Festival gave a big tribute to one of my first big all time pioneers of R&R. New Orleans was his hometown and I am so thankful for being able to see him perform back in the 1960's at Las Vegas and the old Flamingo Hotel. I was front row and stayed for all three of his performances that magical evening!

THE AMANA VILLAGES- SUCH PEACE & BEAUTY.

        During the past two weeks, I have spent more time in the Amana Communities than in my entire lifetime. The more I drive through the various seven villages --South, West, Middle, Homestead, East, High, and Amana, the more I am impressed by the simplicity and beauty of all the villages.

         It is liking visiting a time gone by, and despite the popularity of the many restaurants that once existed there has dwindled, there still is a look and feeling of pride and well being. A lot of Old World feel still abounds. There is still much to offer and if you haven't been there for a while, give serious consideration to the Villages on your next in- state travels!
  

            

SHE ESCAPED THE RUSSIANS!

        This past week while cleaning windows at the Amana Retirement Community, I visited shortly with a lady that had a distinctive accent. I simply asked her, like you know I would, what country she was from originally. Her reply was Germany. She quickly mentioned that she and her family came to the United States after fleeing Germany when the Russians invaded at the end of World War ll.

           I would love, some day, to go back and sit down with her to get her to talk more about what she remembers about the whole ordeal. Maybe that could be my next phase into writing. Her story could be fascinating--stay tuned!    PS. I found out after a lady visiting there asked for my card to do their home windows, that her husband was a big time Major League baseball player and had played at the Iowa's most famous baseball town--Norway! Stories everywhere!

DIDN'T MAKE IT TO TAYLORS--OH NO!

       Yesterday morning, 5/3/ 2018, I drove to Marshalltown, Iowa, to get a new set of tires put on my car from McAtee's Good Year which I have business for years. And, at the same time was going to engage in some window cleaning. 

        Due to threatening weather I was forced to cancel the window cleaning and finished my other errands in town about mid-morning and decided to head home. Maybe I am slipping a little in my old age, but, I was OK that I didn't stick around and have my favorite "Everything On It" sandwich at Taylor's Maid Rite! Believe me, it won't happen again! 

PHONE DOESN'T RING ALL DAY, BUT, THEN!

        Today, 5/3/2018, I had planned two residential window cleaning jobs in the AM. Since, it look like there is a big chance for heavy rain this PM, I decided to call he customers and cancel for another day.

        I was on the phone to the first lady a little before 8AM to cancel and while talking to her the other customer was trying to "ring" in to me to also cancel! I realize the odds are somewhat lower under the circumstances, but, how many times has this example happened to us all. What are the odds?

TEACHERS OF LAUREL by DONNA INGRAHAM continued

---------------------------continued. Laurel Teachers

         4th Grade-Mrs. Ana Andrews.

This was the year we had so many teachers after Mrs. Andrews had a nervous breakdown. We had Sylvia McCleery, Glatha Laverty and I can't remember the others. Mrs. Andrews later went on to win the lottery.

5th Grade--Miss Knoll was our teacher and Kenneth H. Pierce was our Superintendent.

6th Grade-Mrs. Toedt was our teacher.

7th Grade-Mrs. Warden was our teacher. Mr. Stubbs became our Superintendent. Jim Roisen joined the faculty. By the way, he just passed away.

8th Grade-Mrs. Ehret was the teacher and we moved to the new (high school) building.

        This was the year we joined sports teams, music, and other activities. Mrs. Berthrong was with us since kindergarten and was a wonderful music and drama teacher. We even had a band.

Freshman Year-Those on staff were Mrs. Berthrong, Mr. James Eidesel, Jim Roisen, and Mr. Gerald Spitznagel. We started big time football, basketball, baseball and all the music activities. I became a cheerleader.

Sophomore Year

About the same. Charlene VandeKamp was homecoming queen and Bill Murphy was king.

Junior Year-By now the faculty were Leighton Betz, Olaf Grosland, Jack Standefer, Dave May, Orville Anderson, Deane Elsberry, Carol Berthrong and Charlotte Grewell, the Home Ec. Teacher. Mr. Berryhill, (what a joke), and Mr. Stoever, the drivers and instructor.

We had student council, annual staff, future teachers, future nurses, speech contestants, as well as all kinds of music activities.

Senior Year-- About the same activities. Lots of football, basketball, and music. All in all, I believe we had a good education in Laurel. I became kind of a secretary for the high school teachers---typing tests and the like. That year I worked organizing the library and etc. I like keeping up with classmates. I enjoy knowing they are happy and healthy. I miss those who have passed away.

 Since my dad was on the school board I heard probably more than I should have. Mrs. Berthrong and Mrs. Elsberry were far beyond their years as far as standing up for themselves and in many cases for kids. They weren't afraid to voice their opinion. Mrs. Berthrong had a wonderful mink coat. Us girls would walk around in it. She never said we couldn't. At one point she said I either  had to give up cheerleading or music. I kept doing both.

14 DAYS & COUNTING TILL "LONELIEST ROAD!"

TEACHERS--LAUREL CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL K-12

         The following outline was provided by Donna Ingraham Wernberg who began kindergarten with me in the fall of 1949 and we were classmates until graduation in the spring of 1962. 

Teachers Laurel Consolidated School K-12

Kindergarten- Mrs. Hansen with Virginia Howard assistant.

          About all I remember about Kindergarten is Jim Latham sticking his finger in the light socket in the bathroom off our room. I also remember napping. My sister, Jane, was in high school. I saw her go to the main bathroom. I asked to go. Just as I got there she came out. The huge heavy oak door hit me in the head and almost knocked me out. Mr. Craven was the superintendent.

1st Grade-Miss Agan

She got married that year. She came back for our graduation and also our 50th reunion.

2nd Grade Mrs Rosemary Tesinsky

          The new(high school) building was dedicated this year in 1951. The  superintendent was George Evens. I remember he had a huge paddle above his desk.

3rd Grade-Mrs. Murdock was our teacher.

I remember her as being kind and loving. Our class was so large and the 2nd grade was so small that we were split. Some of us were in with Mrs. Murdock and the others were in the 2nd grade room. Nikki Lawrence and I were the only girls in with Mrs. Murdock. When Nikki moved away, they asked me if I wanted to go to the other room, but, I said no. Leaving me the only girl in there.

----------------------------------------to be continued.

CAN YOU BELIEVE RAISIN CREAM PIE!

        While working in the Amana area this past week, I have been taking advantage of eating at two of their finest restaurants--Ox Yoke Inn and the Ronenburg. Yesterday, while at the Ox Yoke, I had finished eating and my waitress brought out the ol' dessert tray.

          I had no intention of having dessert. but, when I spotted that raisin cream pie calling to me . I caved and enjoyed a pie that I hadn't had in many years!! I still think a sampler of desserts would be a great idea, especially with a group!