Cold Rain

Currently...

Just outside the back door of my shop.

Stephen

The Crew

As you well know my shop fronts a busy street. I keep two benches outside for old timers to cop a squat. Early mornings the benches are rubbed smooth by school children as they wait for their buses. Scene set.

I'm kinda grouchy of an early morning especially when I've had less than two cups of coffee. The wee hours provide my quiet time. This morning I'm deep into intellectual thought gathering duties when four of the middle sized boogers begin to take space on the bench directly in front of my office. They get, loud. I'm patient, after all they're children, half-pint adults and this ruckus is to be expected.

Five minutes, ten, enough. I step outside and put on a hard face. The four of them sit straight. Me, "Gentlemen. I really need your guys to cut out the screams and yells. If not you'll be required to wait at the street corner. Got it."

Smartbutt number one, "Why?"

I lied, "Because I'm on the telephone."

Same critter, "I don't be see a phone. Where 'ya phone?"

Takes me a second or two to translate into English. Then, "Oh, it's a landline. An old fashioned telephone"

Booger number two decides he needs attention, "What 'dat mean?"

They were serious, so I said, "Step inside." All four rush into the shop and I pointed towards one of my old and now obsolete communication devices. Products of Western Electric. Both with push button dialing systems.

Booger number one, "Is 'dat really you phone?" (Verbatim, no 'r' on your.) Big squeal of laughter. He continued, "Hey, man, where you be buy 'dis?"

"The flea market." All four yell with laughter. Then I said, "You outta see the pictures I take with it." Truthfully, I thought they'd pee their pants with laughter.

Some days I feel so damn old.

Stephen





   

Come to Papa

I have a big weakness for Old Pour silver....and this is a nice piece.

Don't even think about it.....I mean it.

Stephen

The Next Chapter

My lovely wife is about to take a huge step in the next chapter of her life. She has an opportunity to join a very old and revered Florida company, a private firm, and her interview is scheduled for 1300 this afternoon. She's as nervous as a cat in a badger hole. 

The location for this interview is many miles from our home so I've closed the shop and will provide security and play chauffeur as she rides and studies her notes. She spent most of last night in research of the firm. She wants this job like a child's desire for candy.

Her hands shake.

If you're so inclined please think of her today. Or, say a prayer. Maybe even light a candle or stick of incense. I would sure appreciate it.

Thanks.

Stephen 

Climate Change

Our weather here in North Florida has finally taken a turn for the better. The last two days have been sunny and warm - temps in the low seventies. Awful stuff. It's currently forty-five with fog and a light wind. The weather critter said we can expect rain tomorrow morning with continued cool conditions....perfect.

It's about time.

Excuse me while I return to my current read. Not sure why but books and cold dark nights just seem to compliment each other - kinda like sunshine and sandy beaches. 

Stephen

A Long Lost Friend

Is back.

Please drop by and say hello. She's one of my first blogger friends and was a great support to me when I struggled with this newfangled Blogger stuff. I still remember her clear instructions when I asked how to post pictures.

Her first post in months is very sincere and heartfelt.

HossBoss of Hoof & Barrel. 

Is back in town.

Stephen

Gotcha

I am so very far behind in my thanks and welcomes....such awful manners I've acquired. My mother would spank my behind if not for the fact she sings with the angels.

So, here's a big thank you and welcome to all those recent newcomers to my humble blog. I'll scatter the shot and hopefully tag all my newest friends. If I miss you, please leave a comment and correct my oversight.

First we have Emily Summer. Emily, I did not see a link to any website or blog. If you write please let me know.

To my new best friend from Bangkok, Goodstuff. Be careful out on those waters.

Mrs. Mac, this is just in case I missed you. Mrs. Mac writes the very nice blog, The Thrify/Garden Home. Please drop by and say hello.

Here's to Ron Dupre...thanks, my new friend.

And, last but not least, my good friend and fellow blogger, SCextremist. Again, not sure if I've listed you in the past but what 'da heck. Again, hello, thanks and welcome.

I promise my new friends....if you comment I shall answer. It sometimes takes me a few hours, or days, and occasionally, weeks, but trust me, I will respond.

Please, pull out a chair and let's have a cup of coffee and chew the fat. You are now among friends.

Stephen