The First

The Christmas tree is down and all the decorations and paraphernalia back in the attic. This is supposed be a day of relaxation, rest.

After the house was restored to normal I took a couple of hours and pulled my truck into the driveway and did a bit of preventative maintenance on it and the wife's car. Then grabbed my blower and cleaned the walkways and drive of pine needles, again.

In short, I'm tired. After a nice long shower I took a nap, for all of fifteen seconds. Sweet Wife woke and asked me if I'd make cornbread for dinner. Never argue with a hungry woman. 

I understand the new season of Dual Survival begins this evening. I like it.

Hope you ladies and gentlemen had nice day.

Stephen

At Last

This year is almost over.

Happy New Year.

Be safe out there.

Stephen

If

I lived in Great Britain I'd bid on this.

She just appeals to me.

Stephen

Sunday

The weather is cold and clear and I hear the wind and outside a squirrel barks its warning at some stray cat. These tiny sounds equal peace and quiet for me. They're soothing music, how the wind whistles and the clear cold day amplifies natures voice. There, hear that, a train on the far side of the river, its whistle, pushed by the wind, only now reaches me.

I stepped outside a few moments ago to take in the river and found it white capped and my neighbor's boat rocked under the wind from where he has it slung high under his boat shed. His citrus needs to be picked.

This would be a great day to burn a few hundred rounds at the range. Maybe break out my M1A as it's been a while since I've put the old girl through her paces. Then again with the cost of ammunition I'd flinch with each shot and say, "There goes another dollar."

*****

This morning, early, I eased from my dreams with the sound of my wife making preparations for Sunday school and church. I almost climbed from bed to join her. It's cool enough to wear tweed and it's been a while since I attended services with her. I know she'd like the company and indeed worries for my soul but the Good Lord and I still have differences. He is, I'm sure, aware of my respect for his word. Yet, I'm still not ready for the structure of same.

My church is located in the quiet places of His earth. My sweet wife isn't truly aware of the agreement I hold with the Lord. He and I do understand each the other and our agreement is written in blood. His and mine. One day, perhaps.

Now, with the above in mind, I should attend far more frequently if for no other reason than her happiness. When I picture her, alone on the pew, while other families gather together for worship, it pains my heart. I guess I've painted my reluctance in the color of selfish.

*****

I've finally whittled my 'to read' list to under fifty or sixty books. I purchased Monster Hunter Legion early this year and only last night began the novel. Larry Correia is a fine writer. My recommendation isn't worth a gram of salt so I won't waste your time with the same, but I like it. It sure helps kill a few hours.

*****

As I mentioned it's cold out and yet I should still break out my ladder and gloves and blower and climb onto our roof and blow the accumulated pine straw and oak leaves back to ground. The gutters need attention too.

But, you know what, I think I'll build another AR. Speaking of which I ordered a twenty inch fluted upper the 18th. I checked the vendors web site yesterday and its still listed as 'in process,' whatever the heck that means.

The weather gives good excuse to stay inside and fiddle. Then again, I bet when Sweet Wife walks in from the garage she'll make excuses why we should 'go somewhere.' She's like that you know...

Take care.

Stephen
  

Thanks, John

My friend, John, over at The Simple Life, recently posted his dear wife's recipe for hamburger stew. Today, after I closed the shop, I hit the market for the ingredients then flew home and made a dutch oven full of happiness.

John, please tell your lovely wife it was a big hit. The only change I made was the addition of Cajun spices. Sweet Wife double dipped. With our windy wet day it sure hit the spot.

Thanks.

Stephen

Almost

I'll answer comments soon, please give me a bit of time. I almost have this new computer personalized to my quirky nature. This strange new keyboard is driving me slowly nuts.

But hey, I like it.

As I type Sweet Wife is deep into a British Midsomer Murder mystery. I glance up once in a while and catch a bit...not bad.

Later,

Stephen

Early Morning Ramble

Still cool here at 38 degrees. I love it.

I arrived at the shop early this morning. On the ride here I was shocked to see we'd had a twenty cent increase in gasoline prices. Bugs me as I need to refill my trucks tank.

Stand by as I jerk another cup of coffee.

Ah, better.

Six geese just shot their way over the shop cutting the air hard on a southerly course. If such had happended in my youth I'd have been outside with a shotgun barrel pointed in their direction. Now, I just smile and admire. They make such beautiful music.

*****

Okay...I've taken advice, from you dear gentle readers, and have ordered a new laptop. I went the Sixbears route and did an online order from Wal-Mart. That, was a hard decision to make as I'd sworn to never ever again purchase from those folks. Ah, isn't life a cruel mistress.

With his advice in mind I tried to order the lowest priced laptop on their site with the features I need but in the end chose a model with a slightly higher retail price. Seems the inexpensive models lack wi-fi.

Still, this new computer only set me back half the price of my Dell laptop - happy happy me. Half, mind you. My new computer is the HP 655 (C1B96UJ) with a 15.6 inch screen. 

Anyway, whoop-tee-do...big deal.

I just use the darn things to write and surf. Long as it works I'm happy. Okay, did I screw the pooch or do well in my choice?

*****

When I spoke of the price to Sweet Wife - the next day, she smiled and said I remind her of Hetty Green. I'm sure many of you know of this gentle and kind woman. Bet you didn't know she's my hero. Love the old girl. By the way if you haven't as yet read her biography, try and find a copy (not easy) and spend a rainy day with it. Very good read. Actually there are two bios but the one I like is titled, 'The Witch of Wall Street.'

Some have said, unflattering of course, I'm tight with a penny. Don't believe them, even if you do see me out and about searching the sidewalks and parking lots for Lincoln's image.

*****

Some have asked....

Yes, I've only recently finished with the mind altering medications. Thank you. I feel so much better.

God bless you all.

Stephen