THE NIGHT SHIFT....

--Watching Dinky during the day I couldn't believe the big fool. He just couldn't seem to keep his eyes open. All during the day he went from one spot to another falling asleep. Usually because Squash wouldn’t leave him alone. Sometimes he fell asleep before he got to a favorite spot. Right there in the middle of the  floor.
--Not thinking too much of it I went about my business and filed it away for later consideration. It wasn't until later that same night when the dang fool rain started and I had to get up because there was no way to get comfortable that I got a chance to find out just why the fool was so tired.
--While sitting in my computer chair I watched while Dinky made his usual rounds mouse hunting and checking on everyone. The dang fool cat never stopped moving. Squash and Jinx slept threw the night while Dinky had the night shift apparently.
--The only break he took was when I played a few you tube kitties. Dinky likes watching them. I figured it was the least I could do for the poor old hard working fellow....

THE FIRST STEPS OF THE DAY.....

--Usually during the first five minutes of the day I try my best to keep it as simple as possible. Living in a house filled with various pets and children and a loving wife sometimes this is a tad tricky.
--But like everything else I’m finding out as I get older not impossible. Warming up a cup of coffee for my wife when she wakes is something of a joy. Because the women always greets me with a smile even if she's spent most of the night dodging hot flashes and making cat infested runs to the bathroom. How she can do it I have no idea, but it sure is nice to see so early in the morning. It gives me the added boost to put the grump’s away and try harder for a good day.
--The pets of course are a enigma and are best taken with a cup of coffee. Because even though they are fun to have around their early morning shenanigans can find what nerves that wore out and poke them to no end. But coffee sure makes it bearable to say the lest. Over the years we've reached a compromise of sorts. They let me have coffee and I’ll pet them silly afterwards.
--The children well their a different breed. Sometimes it seems as if getting a smile or to in the morning is a feat left better to superman. But we've reached a compromise of sorts to when they happen to cross my path they crank up the smile machine. Because they come to understand it's the only way to keep their long winded father from dragging out the soapbox and started in on the old day talk’s.
--It's those first steps of the day that matter I’m finding after all these years. And slowly so is everybody else. We may not be the happiest campers in the park but we sure as Sam hill give it our best shot.......

ROUND AND ROUND WE GO.....

--There's nothing worse than watching a house full of whack a doodle pets go of the deep edge. Usually it start's with a growl or hiss and the next thing you know your in the middle of a furry war zone.
--Over the years we've had our share of days with pets who just can't seem to get along. They make for trying times, but like everything can be weathered with a little patience.
--Usually the dang fool weather plays into the mix for some reason. I suppose like all of us pets can be affected by the dang fool weather.
--Most of the time I try to nip in it bud as quick as possible. Sometimes were lucky and sometimes well you got to let the little fools get it out of their system.....

LOOKING FOR THE UPSIDE.....

--Opening the curtains to find a rain drenched yard is kind of a disappointment first thing in the morning. But anything's better than tons of snow and nowhere to put the stuff. Because the piles are already at the level beyond mortal man to reach.
--Of course trying to navigate is a tad tricky but other than a infestation of slugs and snails not impossible.
--Of course waffles isn't to impressed with the whole thing. Between toads and high flying cats, crickets with weird sense of humor he now has to contend with slugs and snails. The poor little fool is beside himself just trying do his business so he can be pardoned from yard infested asylum. And go back to his warm bed.
--Jerry lee just moseys along knowing the quicker it's over the quicker she can go back to her bed.
--The cat who hang around outside take a break hanging on the railing hoping for a few pet’s. Of course being a old fool I take the time. You never know when the next time will happen. Cats are like that I guess.
--All in all it could be worse I remind myself as I tiptoes around slugs and snails and slouch through the water. Getting drenched every time waffles shakes rain covered branches on his run.....

HUMORING THE CAT....

--The first thing I see when I opened my eye's is the cat staring at me.
--He gives a yawn and gives me a look that say's come on I took the first watch now it's your turn. Well I don't really want to get up but if there's one thing I’ve learned.
--When cats want you to get up they don't have patience to burn. Instead of a gentle pat on the face the next one will be quite severe.
--It's best to just humor them and get up off your rear...

JUST GOT TO LOVE THE DRIBBLE FACTOR….

--Most coffee maker’s have seen fit to provide a dribble factor into their pots. Oh you know the one, where if you don’t pour with mind numbing slowness you dribble half a pot on the counter before you know it. It sure is something to keep in mind when pouring that first cup of the day….

LEANING TREES....

--Apparently with all the rain we've had the tree's are taking to getting a little loose in the ground. Basically their leaning and almost falling over.
--My wife noticed another one was loose so she went out and shored it up a tad.
--Looks like were going to be a tad busy in the coming day's if the dang fool rain don't stop soon. Luckily the ground's a might soft so digging won't be to bad.
--I suppose it could be worse at lest the hard part is done. Now all we have to do keep them straight and from falling over until the dang fool rain decides to take a break.....

JACK RABBIT DINK....

--Just when you thought a dang fool cat has shown you everything in the whack a doodle department. The dang fool pulled a new one out of his hat.
--Apparently on a rainy Sunday he figured it would be fun to spend the day going whack a doodle crazy jumping in the air kicking his feet and running like crazy all over the house. Like a Jack rabbit.
--Of course squash figured this was just a prelude to him getting what for so he spent the day under my wife’s chair waiting for the other shoe to drop.
--My wife figured he was just trying soften her up after swatting her yesterday. Which knowing dinky was probably what he was after. Being that my wife wouldn't pet him at all yesterday because of it. And it kind of ruined his day.
--Of course seeing the fool acting crazy was kind of a treat. Being that usually he sleeps all day and goes crazy at night.....

COOL AND BREEZY....

--Being a tad gloomy in the morning is part of the wake-up process. At lest it for me. Especially if I’ve spent most of the night trying to find sleep.
--A pleasant reminder of the days possibilities is a cool and breezy day. Even though I do enjoy the hot day's, a cool and breezy day is just about right for just about anything you might want to do outside. And even goes so far as to make life inside more pleasant also. By not having to run the dang fool a/c constantly.
--Of course once again for some reason I find myself and my wife standing on the edge alone in this area. As far as weather goes. The children don't really seem to have a option until they are forced to leave the sanitary of their rooms to join us on our little yard work outings.
--But to be fair despite there grumblings I do notice they are allot quieter on a cool and breezy day........

SOFT HEARTED OLD FOOLS....

--Apparently along with all the other thing's we've been plagued with over the years. Having a soft heart has come to the top of the curse pile to rear is whack a doodle head.
--Oh it's not like it's been any kind of secret. Both my wife and I have known if for years. From feeding neighbor's children who hung around when we were having a cookout to stray cat's and various other creature's who've found their way to our yard over the years.
--All I can say is somewhere out there is a dang fool sign like the old hobo signs of old that these people are good for a few free meals.
--Of course say what you will we both accept it. And over the years have learned to try and live with as best as we can. Sometimes it's a pain in the neck, and sometimes like everything else in life we probably wouldn't change it if we could.....

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN …

--When accidents happen the first thing I do is take a deep breath. Mostly to remind myself that sometimes things happen. And to try and make sure I don’t over react to the situation.
--Being human is something we are unable to change, I’m constantly being taught this. Mostly because I have spent my whole life reacting to life’s little ups and downs with all the grace of a bull in a china shop.
--Over the year I’ve gotten better. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m learning or just too dang old to raise a full head of steam any more….

PARKING LOT HOWDY....

--The other day coming out of a store loaded down with groceries and what not it started to rain. Usually I’m not too impressed with the prospect of rainy parking lot's because they end up smelling like a big old asphalt version of a wet dog. But it was hotter than heck when we went into the store so the prospect of a little cooling off was something to look forward to.
--Of course my wife was beside herself with joy. There’s something about rain she seems to enjoy. Over the years I’ve never been able to figure it out. But it sure makes her a tad goofy.
--When we got to the car I made her get in while I stored the groceries and what not. Not because the added help wouldn't have been nice but because in my book hearing about the wonder's of rain while getting soaked to the bone is a tad annoying.
--Well like everything thing else in life you learn to roll with the flow. The rain stopped as quick as it started. And the parking lot greeter's came back out again. You know the ones, the little tiny birds who seem to hang around parking lots looking for forgotten crumbs and what not.
--Being busy I didn’t pay them much mind until a couple flew up and landed on the cart I was unloading. Trying to be polite I said howdy and went about my business. They sat there for a bit and then I guess they figured let's check out the back of my car. Because that's what the little fools did. They flew into the back of the car and started checking out the bags I had just loaded.
--Well having a soft spot for more thing's than I should. I cracked open a bag of cheese puffs and tossed a couple to the little fools. They quickly snatched up the wayward puffs and flew off.
--When they left I just smiled it seems they had accomplished what they set out to do I guess. Con an old fool out of a treat. Either they knew it or not I don’t know. They also reminded this old fool of a few things too. So I figured it was a fair exchange.
--Take time to look on the bright side of life, and count the little blessing that come along. Perhaps dancing in the rain isn’t so bad….

THANKS FOR THE TREAT...

--I’ve often wondered what kind of animal responds to a treat by loving you up first for giving them a treat and then beating you up after they have finish it.
--If I didn't see it with my own eyes I wouldn't of believed it. But that is exactly what my wife’s dang fool cat Dinky does every time she buys the fool a can of cat food and gives it to him.
--Why I have no idea, maybe it's a cat thing. Myself I’ve never had that problem with dogs and even cats I’ve been known to offer a treat to. I probably not give them another treat for sure. If that was how they showed their appreciation for their treat to me.
--Not my wife of course she thinks it is weird and funny. So she continues to buy Dinky a treat every once in a while. It seems every cat that my wife has ever had is a few bricks shy of a load.

THE EMPTY DISH....

--If there's one thing we've learned over the years is a empty dish means trouble when it comes to cats and dogs. Cats like to eat a little bit all day long. Except those whack a doodles who just can't stand the sight of a full dish like Jinx and Squash. And make it there sole purpose in life to empty it as soon as possible. Leaving Dinky to whistle in the wind when it's his time to eat.
--Being the gentlemen that he is he usually makes his displeasure known by chasing Squash around and giving him a swat for his troubles.
--Everyone sees this and makes Dinky out to be the villain in the spot light. I’ve tried to explain to them time and time again just what in Sam hill is going on but for some reason it's easier to blame poor old Dinky. Probably because if they didn't they would have to remember to give the fools some food. And that would mean less time for their own little agenda's.
--Try as I might I seem to not be able to keep the dang fool dish filled. So every once in awhile Dinky and Squash go at it. The children have to be reminded to check the dish and get the dang fool cat some food.
--Of course it would be so much easier if everybody looked out for everybody else but I guess that day hasn't gotten here yet. Maybe someday soon. For now it appears we need a few little reminders of our responsibilities to each other....

THE MIDNIGHT RUN....

--I've long ago accepted that my wife's cat's are a special breed. Where in Sam hill they come from I have no idea. But she usually ends up with some of the most personality infested little fellas you every did see.
--Last night I noticed my wife getting out of bed and making a mad dash to the bathroom. After carrying and having six children her poor bladder has a mind of it's own. So it wasn't really an uncommon sight.
--The crazy cat of hers Dinky running like crazy to catch up to her. Being a curious person by nature I just had to investigate.
--After a couple of minutes my wife came out of the bathroom again running for her bed with the dang fool running right behind her swatting at her legs. When she reached the bed he jumped up and started loving her up.
--I looked at my wife and asked what in Sam hill was going on? she explained to me it was a stupid game Dinky played every night when she went to the bathroom. I just shook my head and smiled. Right then I began to wonder if maybe I was the whack a doodle and they were the sane ones. Not knowing the answer I went back to bed....

A PRAYER FOR THOSE IN CHARGE…

--Oh I can’t help but feel sorry for you. And your constant need to remind people that you’re the one in charge.
--The sign on the door wasn’t enough. Or the name plate on your desk. Well it really should have been bigger. Perhaps a mural on the wall would really do the trick.
--But instead I guess you’ll just have to make do with beating everyone with the rules that you enforce.
--I hope someday you will find what your searching for and fill your need. Until that time I guess we’ll all just have to be patient while you stomp your feet to show us what you’ve achieved….

LATE NIGHT SURPRISE....

--Apparently the people who pick up our trash have been busy. Because they never got around to picking ours up until the wee hours of the night. It wouldn’t have been bad but we've been blessed with a dog named Waffles who thinks every little sound in the night needs to be announced with a battle cry followed by a ruckus.
--Not that I’m complaining it's good to know when boogers are out and about. I just wish the little fool Waffles would learn to tell the difference between real and imagined threats. But I guess in his world there's not much difference.
--When Waffles the little fool finally quieted down it was the whack a doodle cats turn to raise a ruckus. Apparently they needed to get in on the late night shenanigans.
--By the time they all calmed down the dang fool sun popped up and decided to try and burn through my eye lids. Figuring it was somebody’s way of telling me to get my butt up. I got the Sam hill off the bed before the other shoe dropped.
--If there's one thing you got to love it’s the late night surprises....

MANAGEABLE LITTLE MESS....

--I have to give mother nature credit the old gal loves to keep you on your toes. Dealing with all her shenanigans can be a pain in the neck sometimes. But is makes for never a dull moment.
--Like the old well guess what I did game. Finding out one of your overgrown fruit trees has blown down with the last big wind and all the rain we had. Makes for interesting conversation. Let alone a work load cutting the dang fool thing up and hauling it out of the neighbors yard.
--But it did give everyone a chance to work together. Which is always a plus.
--Being one to try the best I can to learn from thing's when they happen. I trimmed the rest of the dang fool trees in the line. Which brought sighs of tired protest from everyone including myself before we were done.
--My wife’s comment when we were done made me crack a smile. “ You know next year on my birthday why don't you just give me a hug ".....

MISTAKEN IMPRESSION'S....

--It never fails to amaze me how I forget to remember to explain just what in Sam hill it is were doing to the people attempting to lend a helping hand.
--They often look at me in wonder and try to help with the limited amount of instructions I provide.
--It's not until later unfortunately that it slowly sinks into my head that if I gave better instructions. I might not have such disastrous results.
--They say at some point we all become our parents. If it's true then I still have a long ways to go and many things still to overcome.
--When I finally do take the time to explain things I’m totally amazed at the outcome. And the creativity of my children for working smarter not harder.
--Now if I can just remember the next time before I open my mouth to take the time to explain things. Everything would probably work a whole lot better.
--But like everything else in life it seems to be a work in progress. And quite frankly I have a long ways to go. I guess that's what life’s about learning from our mistakes. And trying not to make a habit out of repeating them....

MOWING BUDDIES...

--Mowing can be a pain in the neck. Except for those few occasions when the whack a doodle fool cats get in on the process. Then it takes on a whole new meaning of course.
--Using a push mower is a tad goofy but when your rider has a personality problem the only other choice is letting the dang fool yard grow which I’d do if it didn't provide a sanctuary for every whack a doodle bug with a attitude problem.
--So like I said it's a pain but endurable if taken in short bouts. There are usually a couple of cats who followed me around and watch. Hansel of course being one and the other one is little Tazz. Who it seems has taken to following Hansel everywhere.
--Usually they hang back and wait and see if I scare up any thing interesting like mice and what not.
--My wife thinks it's kind of funny watching the whole process take place. And often comments on it. Me I just try and not get distracted too much from these whack a doodle cats. Because I’m too dang old for anymore stupid accidents.......

BIRTHDAY WISHES….

--Birthday’s are fun because the gathering around the table puts everyone on the same page for a change. The comradery is nice after the years of standoffish behavior brought on by mixing in a world that seems to thrive in a me, me attitude. The uniting and celebrating with family and friends in a happy an enjoyable atmosphere is the best feeling you could possibly have to endure in life.
--Even if it's for a short time seeing the seeds planted from a close upbringing flourish. Is such a magical sight it's enough to bring tears to a tired old fools eyes.  And often does I’m proud to say......

JUST TRYING TO SAY HOWDY...

--Living in a house with so many little pets trying for a few seconds of your time for some attention can get a tad tiring. And even though you try your best to give each a few seconds of time there's always bound to be a few who are going to feel left out.
--Sprinkle children into the mix and it seems you spend the majority of your time just reassuring everyone there still loved unconditionally forever each and every single child.
--But when held to the memories of our own childhood it was far from theirs. So the time in fact is well spent.
--One thing my wife and I have tried over the years to make sure to do. Was to fix the discrepancy’s of our own childhood with pages written of a new way of raising our children. There by hopefully breaking the chain. And letting our children start with a fresh slate not one filled with hurtful and  unwanted baggage…..

HIGH FLYING CAT....

--Apparently Tazz has been following Hansel around too much. The little fool is starting to imitate her in her weird way’s. Mostly by tormenting poor Waffles with the game of now you see me now you don't.
--I noticed today while sitting outside enjoying the warm breeze a little extra rustling in the maple tree where Waffles run starts at. Looking up in the branches sure enough there was Tazz stalking Waffles as he ran back and forth.
--I don't think Waffles noticed until Tazz started dropping out of the tree on top of him. Scaring the life out of him and then running back up in the tree as quick as a cat.
--After about six or seven times I unhooked the little fool dog. I figured he needed a break from being dive bombed by the kitten. And I also noticed his big old toad friend was circling around the other side of the maple tree to get in on the fun. I figured the poor little fool was one step away from being driven over the edge. Since the whole being outside with nature thing was starting to get to him.
--Tazz didn't seem to mind he just switched victims and started stalking the cats who hang around the porch. The toad well who ever really knows what’s on a toads mind....

CIRCLING THE WAGONS....

--When the little ones come every spring the mommies have a habit of circling the wagons and protecting the little whack a doodles. Even the mommies who have made whack a doodle their middle name seem to be able to climb above their little defect in behavior for the sake of their babies. When it’s time to eat the mommies watch with a forceful eye making sure none of the bigger cats take a swat at the little ones. Or even a slight growl or a hiss and the circling mommies chase the bigger cats right away from the area and they have to wait until all of the kittens our done and leave the area to play. Then they watch them play keeping a watchful eye on them. It’s really a sight to see.
--Gone are the personalities of one and they take on a communal force to be reckoned with. Just ask anybody who tries to misbehave during those days. They are quickly reminded to mind their P's and Q's with such force that it no longer becomes a problem.
--It's nice to see the cats band together for something besides their next meal and it's even encouraging to watch. Reaffirming my faith that it is possible to get along even though they might not see eye to eye at times.
--Now if we could take a lesson from them it might be useful. And may be even profitable for us all. It sure makes you wonder....

BUILDING BLOCKS OF LIFE….

--Looking back over the years I’m reminded of many thing's. Thankful for each and every one.
--It's a Hodgepodge collection this thing called memory. Some happy, some sad and some in between.
--With stacking blocks of lessons learned and choices made you journey on your way.
--Each one is a building block for the person of today….

SPREADING THE SUNSHINE ....

--Giving comfort to others only takes a moment or two.
--Sometimes with a word or the lending of an ear and with a smile to wish you some good cheer.
--What goes around comes around of this I’m quite certain.
--Spreading the sunshine seems to just make sense you never know when you might need a few rays on a cloudy day....

RUSHING PAST OUR LIFE…

--The little things that make life worth while are often missed when we pass by in such a rush.
--Like the smile from a little one who realizes you’ve been standing there while they sing a little tune.
--Or the look you share when you finally make it home after fighting the rainy night.
--But probably the one most often missed is when you bring that first cup of coffee and hear that gentle bliss of thank you dear, I love you, that makes me surely blush…

CAT NAP IN THE AFTERNOON….

--For a change the cats and kittens are quiet. I don’t hear any pitter-patter of little paws. It's probably because of the cool night and now the sun filled kitchen. Or perhaps they tired themselves out from all the rough housing they did this mourning.
--Which is fine by me I know I’ve grown tired of playing their crazy games. Or picking up their little messes they make knocking things down from the bookcase or off from the shelves on the walls.
--As I’m sure their tired of listening to me telling them the same thing every day to behave and not make such a mess.
--Either way it’s a break for us all. Of course that’s only as long as the sunshine lasts. I’m pretty sure they’ll be up and about when the sun goes down. With a whole new bag of shenanigans for the coming night. With their tiny sharp pointy toys scattered all over and all their balls they bat around. At least we don’t have any mice running around thanks to the little fools …

PLANNING A GOOD DAY…

--Over the years I’ve tried to impress upon my children that good days don't just happen.
They are not some blessing given to us from up high. But are ours if we choose to have them.
--Sometimes they require careful planning. Myself I try to remove the stumbling blocks that keep me in limbo. Or teetering on the edge in those first few moments of the day.
--Usually I have a pretty good day doing this which in turn drives my wife and children nut's…

A CAT’S WAY OF THINKING....

--Most of the problem's seem to stem from the way of approaching a cat. Instead of looking at the largeness look at the smallness of each cat. And you can creep slowly toward it checking it out first before you come in general contact with it. Be it tamed and meek or be it wild and crazy.
--Of course there are all sorts of games we play with ourselves to keep from getting discouraged by the many types of problems that keep popping up in our life. But actually I know in my case they have been a godsend to keep me moving along and not wallowing in a rut somewhere scratching my head like my cat does.
--That’s not to say changing perspective will work all the time. Like the cat that stalks a mouse deciding to run or to pounce. Then changes its mind and waits too long deciding and misses the mouse. But most days I manage to make it though the day with some semblance of sanity at the end with a snack for my troubles.
--And in these whack a doodle times this seems to be a major breed of  accomplishment of our own different origins. Where it seems to be designed to see from  long, short, or no haired. From large to skinny or lean and in between. They come in so many colors, sizes, and shapes its hard to choose which one is best.

TRYING TO FIND….

--Trying to find something shouldn’t be so hard just a process of retracing your steps. Or so you would think.
--Ask my children and they will tell you because I’m the one who says if your looking for something and can’t find it. Take a break and then try again later.
--Nine times out of ten this seems to work. And I know in my case it is usually right in front of me.
--Of course when I’m really getting frustrated one of my children will yell out hey dad why don’t you take a break. No one likes a smart mouth but of course their usually right.
--Our old cat Blacky was good at finding the right socket  I was looking for when I was working on our car. I'd check the whole tool box first. Then he would come over and drop the socket I  needed into my hand. And sometimes it would be a wrench I needed and could not find. That was the best finding cat ever! Now if I could teach the old cat Dinky to stop finding mice and bringing them to me I would be so pleased…..

BUTTERFLY PATCH....

--My wife thinks I’m a tad touched sometimes when I mow the yard because sometimes I’ll end up leaving giant patches of grass all over the place. When it first happen it was like being grilled under a light as to just why in Sam hill I couldn't figure out how to mow the whole yard. With each one of my answer's my wife gave me her famous your so full of it looks.
--In truth I’m a sucker for any type of flower that adds a touch of color to a otherwise sea green. And then of course there's butterflies and bumble bees. Butterflies because their colorful and cool to watch and bumblebee's well for some dang fool reason I’ve always thought they were funny looking. And also useful if you have fruit trees which we do.
--Using a rider is kind of hard to miss the little fellow’s. A push mower gives you a little more control. Needless to say every time I encounter a patch of colorful flowers I’ll go around them. And the same for bumble bees and butterflies.
--Over the years this has at times left us with a patchy yard to say the least. But it's nice to know that those patch's are out there. They help me get through the hard days with a smile......

AT SOME POINT….

--It seems that at some point it finally dawned on everyone that summer is  here so maybe we should just take a break in the shenanigans. Try to stop a bunch of pets to stop freaking out because the sun has come out and the rain has stopped. No chance because they have been cooped up too long.          .
--What ever the case after weeks of singing the song of rain last night was pretty quiet. Of course the fact that it was a tad warm probably helped. Either way it was a quiet night which afforded me a little sleep for which I’m very grateful. Now I can try and deal with these crazy pets of ours.
--I guess like everything else what goes up must come down eventually with these cats jumping out of trees at you. Or just hanging off a branch batting at your arm as you walk by trying to play with you. Following you all over the yard running back and forth in front of where your walking causing you to trip by not stepping on the little fools.                                                        
 -- They were going bonkers jumping after bugs and playing leap frog over each other. Running up and down trees. Chasing each other around the yard. The cats started to bounce up and down in the tall grass it looked like they were playing hide - and - seek I had to stop what I was doing and laugh at them. They sure are having some fun in the sun…..

A HELPING HAND....

--Crossing the yard I happened to come upon a butterfly who looked like it was struggling a tad trying to take off but couldn't seem to make it. Well being a sucker for butterflies in general I bent down and gently picked the little fellow up and set him down on a low hanging branch of a tree. He seemed to mellow out a bit and calmed down and sat there. Quietly enjoying the break I guess.
--I went about my business and didn't really give it another thought.
--It wasn't until later when mowing that I noticed an unusual amount of butterflies fluttering around. Well being one who always enjoys watching butterflies fluttering around I shut the mower off. And proceeded to watch  the little fellow's..
--It wasn't long before a couple landed on the handle of the mower and one landed on my arm. What they were up to I had no idea but sure did enjoy the show while it lasted.
--It wasn't until later when passing the tree where I had sat the little fellow I noticed he was gone. It was then I remembered the butterflies. I guess they were just trying to say thanks. Sure makes you wonder if a little kindness goes a long ways......

FUNNY THINGS….

-- They say laughter is the best medicine.Usually I don't put much stock in what they say. Except is this instance. Because if anything we sure get our share of laughs around here.
  --Our dog Waffles is afraid to walk in the woods behind our house. He is happy at first until a leaf happens to fall from a tree and he yelps and runs all the way back to the house nonstop in just a few seconds. Or a bug happens to land on his nose and then he is gone at lightning speed.                                                                                                            
--Our other dog Jerry-Lee when happy and excited will dance swishing her body like a big snake while jumping in the air. Some times she hides in a big pile of grass clippings or leaves and likes to jump out and scare you. You actually can hear her snickering. Thank heavens it isn’t winter because she hides any where then.                                                                                     
  --When our cat Hansel stole the deer hide hanging in the neighbors tree across their yard and started dragging it towards our yard. The two dogs were barking like crazy egging her on . All though the deer hide was too heavy and the encouragement from the dogs helped she was just to plain tired. but she gave it her all. The time she jumped out of the top of the tree while I was on the riding lawn mower and landed on my lap almost giving me a heart attack. We seem to get enough laughter from our whack-doodle pets…..

WAKING A SLEEPING CAT...

--Resting on the back of the couch one ,two and three. The kitten, the cat and the one in between.
--They've just spent the last hour running back and forth. Going from one end of the house and back again in the blink of an eye.
--It's plain to see why it is their so dang tired and now resting in a pile. A  quick nap and they'll be up again to run about.
--My wife looks at me and says," their so cute." I whispered "be quiet, you know what they say about waking a sleeping cat. "

LAUGHING AND LEARNING…..

--The only shame in being made a fool of is the inability to put the experience in prospective.
--Carrying it over into a resentment accomplishes nothing but loading you up with unwanted  baggage. It’s a lot easier to recognize the experience as just another learned lesson. Forgive the person or persons and continue on without all the excess baggage to lug around.
--Yeah I know sometimes a lot easier said than done. Try explaining that to four children as they try to navigate the highs and lows of life. It’s a hard thing to do. And especially hard for children. Nobody likes to be laughed at. But the ability to laugh at our mistakes and learn from them is what makes us or breaks us so to speak.
--Over the years we’ve all had plenty of chances to practice laughing and learning from our mistakes. Over time it’s gotten a lot easier. And we’ve gotten pretty good at it. I guess you really can’t ask for anything more than that….

FINDING PLACE'S FOR THING'S THAT DON'T FIT....

--Sometimes things are just what they seem. I know it sounds kind of simple in this day and age where everything and everyone has a hidden agenda. And maybe it is.
--A helping hand when in need. An offer of comfort when sad. A welcome smile from across the room. A little tiny sticker given to a child. All simple thing's on the face of it or so it would seem.
--Perhaps the trouble lies not in thing's being out of place. But in us trying to find place's for thing's that are just where there supposed to be...

THE COFFEE CAT....

--Usually after a hard night of tossing and turning all I want in the morning is a cup coffee and quiet. What I get is far from that but I try to make do. Because anything else just takes too much energy before my coffee.
--Well this morning was going pretty good I had my coffee and was watching the sun come up and thinking about a second cup. When the old cat Dinky hopped up on the table and sat next to me.
--Now usually Dinky and I have an arrangement he stay's on my wife's side of the table when she's up and very seldom crosses over to my side. Except when it's just me and him.
--Usually I don't mind because I figure it's easier to give a little when it comes to cats. Most of the time what you get back is well worth it. The rest of the time its good to remember that their cats and you have to make allowances for their shenanigans.
--He leaned up against me and went to sleep. Which I figured was kind of rude because he was sleeping on my coffee drinking arm. But having raised four children I’d learned long ago it is necessary to drink with either arm.
--I have to admit it was kind of nice to have company while trying to wake up and shake off the remnants of the long night of tossing and turning. If that was his intention I have no way of knowing. But I wouldn't be too surprised. Cats are like that I’ve found over the years. And some cats are very sensitive to the moods and feeling of the people who share their space.....

LITTLE DOG WAFFLES...

--Waiting by the door each day for you to get ready to leave. He knows this will be his last chance to say how much he loves you.
--You try to get ready as quiet as can be, but it doesn’t really take much you see.
--You almost make it to the door when up with a jump he starts to shout with glee. How much he loves you and wishes you wouldn’t leave.
--You try to calm him down, you pat his little head, you tell him everything will be all right. And off you quickly go leaving behind that little dog who lets the whole world know just how much he loves you and hates to see you go..

GO GO GOING ALONG….

--Zipping along causally on the road back and forth they go all day long.
--Different shapes, sizes, and colors. Just a glance is all that’s afforded.
--If you didn't have confirmation of sound you'd swear you'd imaged the whole thing.
--Because no matter what the sign says they zip along doing their own thing.
Someday I image they’ll slow down and read what they’ve been speeding by. But I don't see it happening yet. Their too busy go-go-going along while they can.                                                                                                             --I believe it is time to slow down to enjoy the important things in life. Be it yourself or your family. Or perhaps your favorite pet. I know for a fact that I have enjoyed several pets over the years. Especially our toad spitting pig Wilber. I remember the time she went over to the farmers field next door. The field was all mud and knee deep. As much as I tried to coax her to return to her own yard she just snorted at me and kept on going further into the mud soaked field. Well I manage to get my foot up to give her a nudge in the butt. But Wilber decided to move at the same time and I missed. Landing on my back in the mud. I was covered in mud from head to toe. This seemed funny to Wilber as she stood there laughing and snorting her pleasure at my mud colored face. I started to push her butt toward our yard with useless effort. My dear wife happens to come outside and calls for Wilber because she has a nice big juicy apple for her. Wilber couldn’t even see her but hearing just her voice went charging home to see her leaving me behind in the mud. Next time I will let her call Wilber to retrieve her back to her own yard when she breaks out of her pen…..        

SQUIRREL ALERT....

--I have never been able to figure out just why it is when it comes to traveling the ride's the mornings seem to be the better ones. Maybe it's because the day looks fresher and you take more notice of the scenery. Or maybe it's your outlook on thing's either way I like the morning ride's the best.
--The squirrels and chip monks seem perkier. And have a bit of an attitude in the morning. But then again we are talking about squirrels and chip monks as a whole they kind of live up to their names. Like when they run across electrical wires that run across the streets and they just happen to drop a walnut and it hits your car with a loud bang. That really perks you up!
--While driving into town we must of slowed down for at least a half a dozen. unfortunately this proved to be to much for the little fellas because at least half of them ran back to where they started. My wife laughed and said maybe it's not getting across the road but the contest to see if they'll make it that their after. Either way all I know it gets kind of tiring having my innards shook up every time we had to stop. But I guess it was better than running the poor playful dare devils over. Even these critters deserve a chance as devious and comical that they are. They play dodge ball with cars with their nuts, catch me if you can crossing roads, and hide-and-seek with all the nuts that they gather. They sure make for an interesting drive in the mourning perhaps this is when their fun of energy…..     

HOPP TOAD....

--Waffles found a friend this morning. As he was going out to do his business this morning he made his rounds of checking all the cats who hang around the house. Sniffing and licking each as he passed by. Most of the cats endured this morning ritual with disgust and the rest they just ignored the little fool.
--Totally unfazed by the whole ordeal Waffles continued on his merry way. Rounding the picker flower bush that grows next to our deck he stopped in his tracks and did a reverse Scooby Do back towards the porch.
--It's seems Waffles has found a friend one of the biggest toads I’ve ever seen it looked about the size of a small cantaloupe. And it didn't look too happy. But then again I can't say as I blame him. Being in a yard filled with whack a doodle cats, kittens and dogs would get on anybodies nerves after awhile I guess. Not to mention wondering bands of chickens and turkey's from the neighbors yard.
--Well Jerry- Lee didn’t' really seem to fazed by the little fella. But then in the morning not much fazes her. She stepped over him and I hooked her to her run.
--Waffles wanted to go back in the house. I had to carry him over and hook him up. He wasn't happy but he did his duty.
--The toad was sitting there and then hopped over to Waffles run driving poor Waffles out of his mind. Every time Waffles tried to get away from him the toad followed.
--Well I figured the high strung little fool needed to be rescued before he went over the edge. So I unhooked him and let him back in the house. He cleared the three porch steps to the house in one leap. And had the door open and was in his bed before I even got in the house. I guess he had enough of nature for the day......

ROLLING WITH THE FLOW….

--Nobody said life was easy. In fact sometimes it can be a real pain the neck. But that’s the way it is I guess. You take the good with bad and try to roll with the flow. Keeping in mind that thing’s get better at least that is what I told the kitten Squash today.                                                                                      
 --For about a week or two the old cat Dinky has been chasing him and making him yell like he was dying or worse. Several attempts were made to see what was going on. But by the time that anyone in our family got there it was all ready broken up until the next episode would happen.                        
--This weird behavior of Dinky’s went on for a couple of weeks. With the running to the rescue of Squash and the constant scolding of Dinky. We tried giving the older cat more attention thinking perhaps he’s being neglected and in need of some positive attention. We even purchased a couple of cans of his favorite food to prove of our love for him.                    
 --Nothing seem to work to help poor Squash. We felt bad that Squash had to hide from the old mean cat Dinky. Squash would slink and crawl across the floor when he went from room to room trying very hard not to attract too much attention from the hostile Dinky.                                                            
 --Finally our solution to Squash’s problem came at night. It was late at night and Squash was still in the kitchen. He let out this horrible yell  I ran to the kitchen to save the poor kitten from the old monster cat. When I reached the kitchen I found the old cat Dinky had Squash pinned to the floor with one paw and holding him still with the other paw. He was a licking him all over. Squash was trying to get away but Dinky held him down. I guess Dinky wasn’t trying to be mean and nasty. He just thought the kitten was in need of a bath and was determined to give him one…..

CAN YOU FEEL ME NOW?....

--I love the fact that we are given so many reminder's during the day and sometimes in the wee hours of the night as to just what direction we should be headed in. Sometimes we listen and sometimes we don’t. Usually at great cost to ourselves.
--Trying to keep a open mind in this day and age would seem down right impossible. With just about everything you encounter seemed geared to keeping you off balance and totally confused as to which way is up.
--Prying your mind open to the possibility’s of life becomes a full time job. Not impossible just one that requires a lot of work and careful watching.    
 --First you have to remember serendipity because there are things out of your control and always will be. Then you have to remember to look for the signs. There are signs everywhere. These signs will guide you or point you in the path you are suppose to take.
--Over the years I’ve tried to pass what little I’ve been able to acquire in the way of common sense to my children. Sometimes with great result’s. And sometimes well lets just say they are trying to understand just what in Sam hill their father is talking about.....

MAKING TIME….

--How often do we forget to make time for the little things. Like giving a complement when one is due. Or just smiling and listening when someone talks to you. Wishing someone to have a nice day. Or to hold open a door. To give someone a needed hug or just because your glad to see them.
--It only takes a few seconds and it won’t throw off the schedule that much. But because were in a hurry living in the fast track of today’s ways we forget and walk off in a huff. When we could of took a few minutes.
--Of course leaving behind a cloud in our passing. That will probably turn to a storm when given time to brew by not slowing down our pace.
--It’s so easy to forget to make time for the little things. And to be honest that’s something we should not really do. Because even though they don’t matter too much to you. They do to others and maybe they really should to you…..

I‘TS HOW I SEE IT….

--When at first glance what appeared to be was in fact a welcome relief to what could have been. The day started looking up with the sun shining in.
--Of course that’s how it usually works if only you choose to see. But most times we see what is and wish for what should be. Then spend the day trying to get out of our rut.
--Not much is perfect in this life we've been granted. Sometimes it's all in how you look at it. Perhaps what is, is perfection in the works and it's up to us to see the beauty in it's contraction.
--It may not be perfect and it probably won't make much sense. But if I tried it any other way the day would be half spent before I found the rhythm to go on. So for now it'll have to work this way of seeing the light…..

PONDERING OVER THE PAST...

--Watching people flounder picking apart the past trying to find where mistakes were made is very frustrating for me. Because usually this leads to a rut of useless thinking and wasted time. And is very seldom profitable in the learning department. Can even destroy your self worth and make you feel miserable. It is better to leave the past beyond and live for today with a new and fresh outlook on life.
--I’m not saying trying to learn from mistakes is bad. I know in my own case it was very profitable. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years it's I’ve made my share of mistakes. But I don’t drag them out and parade them around every day.
--It's just that I’ve learned the whole ordeal of could of, should of, would of is a useless thing unless kept in prospective can lead to one giant trap that’s very hard to lift yourself out of. I try to keep my adventures of examining mistakes to as less as possible because of this. Because I’ve found life is to short to be floundering in self pity about a bunch of mistakes I can't go back and change.
--It's not the best of plans but on a whole I find I’ve made less mistakes and have had lot more of better days since I’ve adopted this way of thinking. I guess that’s what counts living in the present to your fullest.....

FORGETTING THE BASICS….

--Forgetting the basics often brings about shortage in so many places that it’s hard to comprehend.
--And really there’s no reason for it other than a preoccupation with the day to day nonsense of getting the job done.
-By the time it comes down to the basics your either too tired from everything else or just put the basics off till morning. But when morning arrives your off and running and the basics have fallen along the way once again.
--Perhaps it time for a major rethinking to take place and the basics should once again be put in the place where they belong. And not put off resulting in the same old routine. Where nothing gets done only little bits and pieces of errands and favors.                                                                                       
--You need to stay on track to get the basics done first. If something comes up and you can not postpone it till later then fine. Afterwards hop a train and ride the rail till your basics are completed. By remaining on track through the tunnels of distractions and the mountains of obstacles that appear your engine keeps it’s smoke stack puffing smoke and your wheels remain turning down the tracks
-- Later on when you peer down the tracks you can see the end approaching. You will be content to know that the basics are done. Along with all you have accomplished for the day by keeping your caboose going and not jumping the tracks
-- So toot your horn proudly and ring your bell loudly for there are no more railroad crossings only satisfaction of your journey’s end .….

BEING KIND ISN'T SUPPOSED TO BE HARD….

--I watched a conversation the other day. I was amazed at how many snide and hurtful comments were used to describe the situation of which the person spoke.
--I couldn’t help but feel bad for the person receiving the comments. It is so sad when people don’t take the time to think before they speak.
--Being kind isn’t supposed to be hard. In fact you would think it would be easy but apparently in the me, me, me, generation in which we live it’s a sign of weakness and too be feared at all cost.
--That night I said a prayer for the person’s involved. Both of the groups. Hopefully they’ll find the strength to carry on and perhaps they won’t resort to such childish behavior the next time.
 -- And the one who had their spirit shattered will find it in their heart to wave their little flag in such a sea of adversity.                                               
-- Like I said being kind shouldn’t be so hard. Perhaps less words and more physical gestures should apply. A polite nod of your head in agreement or disagreement. Body language can say a lot without the hurtfulness of words spoken without thought. A smile can go a very long way and both can feel really good in the end.                                                                                      
--Be kind to your neighbor and they will in return be kind to you.  Do a favor for someone in need and receive a smile of appreciation. Help out somebody that you notice is having a problem even if their to proud to ask. Give your hospitality they will surly welcome you back. Be generous in conversation as well as in donations to the ones in need you would be surprised to see the comfortable results in their eyes. Try to be sympathetic to those who are having trouble for they are really trying to do their best. A little help goes a long way.                                                                               
 -- In your conversations, manners, and behaviors you can be polite and civil it’s the humane thing to do. Especially in our country with so many different beliefs and numerous life styles today. It’s better to be courteous  and respectful of others to live a joyous life of harmony and peace. The pleasure it will bring you by being nice is endless. It can lift your spirit and others to soar for heights into a new atmosphere. An innocent gesture to hold open a door for someone is genteel. To be considerate can have the power to spread from one person to the next traveling for miles and miles.                             
 --You to can be attentive and show your endearment by spreading some cheer to the next person you come in contact with a greeting of hello and a smile. A kiss on your wife’s cheek would brighten her day or a big ole hug to your kids can bond you for life. Buy being kind to your family it will become easy to be warmhearted to others and show forgiveness. Oh please by all means pass this little bit on .

THE SMILING FOOL…

--Shame on you always hanging around. Always quick with a smile or two trying to brighten up my day.
--Don’t you realize that’s just not how the game is played.
--Be gone you smiling fool. Find your own sandbox to smile about. Because it seems to me that this one is more than full.
--Well now that the rules have been explained there’s only one thing for the fool to do. And that’s to smile at you who thinks that’s how the game is   played…

KEEPING TRACK....

--Trying to keep track of all the ins and out's of everyday life can be a real pain in the butt sometimes. Because no matter how hard you try there's always something that seems to fall through the cracks.
--It probably wouldn't be so bad if the dang fool cracks didn't become stumbling blocks down the road.
--My children have learned to endure my constant reference's to thing's in my own weird way I guess. Sometimes they are quick to grasp the point and sometimes it requires more of a explanation.
--Over the years I have noticed some of my more colorful saying creeping into their vocabulary.
--The other day sitting around the table chatting it up my son's where having a heated conversation over the proper way to cook soup in the microwave. When Sam hill came up. They both turned and looked at me like I was a puppet master pulling their string’s. I just smiled.
--They say at a certain point we each become our parents. If it's true or not I’ve never been able to figure out. I suppose there are worse thing’s, keeping in mind that at birth we are all given free will of course. And using one's parent's as an excuse for your behavior, is just a lazy person's way of going out of their way to not accept responsibility for their behavior.
--Of course my children's response has been oh sure you fill our heads with your gobly gook and then say it's our responsibility to decide what’s good for us and what's not.
--I usually just smile and say nobody ever said life was easy just a adventure in the making....

EXPANDING YOUR HORIZONS.....

--Keeping a open mind about the possibilities of life is hard when life seems to be going out of it's way to knock you down. But not impossible if we are able to keep a open mind. Sometimes it hard but not impossible.
--Expressly on those days when the only thing going right is the constancy of just about everything you encounter is going wrong.
--My wife usually looks at me like I stepped of the bridge of sanity when on those days I say something like well at lest it's being constant. And over the years we trudged through quite a few of those days. Sometimes it seems more than our fair share.
--But the one thing we've found is this to shall pass, and tomorrows another day. I know it doesn't seem like much but even a little hope is better than nothing .
--Of course that doesn't make those days any shorter, but it does keep thing's in perspective. At lest that’s the way we try to handle them. So far it's worked pretty well. And when it stops working I’m sure we'll find another way to get through those days. That’s what working together is all about......

THE WINGED MESSENGER....

--Once coming home from shopping on a pretty rainy day. We had a unexpected visitor during a break from the rain. A big old butterfly flew in the window at a stop sign. The dang fool thing fluttered around until we got to our turn and then fluttered out the window. Apparently the little fella just needed a lift.
--When the dang fool thing fluttered out the window my wife and I just looked at each other and started giggling like a couple of old fools. It's amazing what will tickle your funny bone when you have just about had the worst a day can offer.
--The little winged messenger did his job I guess by lifting the spirits of a couple of old fools stuck in the doldrums of a rainy day. Life’s like that sometimes .Inspiration comes in all shapes and sizes. And I might add forms. Because living in a house filled with whack a doodle cats and dog's is a real treat sometimes. Very seldom can you get through the day without cracking a smile because of something the little fools have done.....

GOOD MORNING....

--There's nothing like the little welcoming committee in the early morning on the way to the coffee pot. Opening the door to the kitchen is a little unnerving if your half awake. But the upside is there's so much happiness it’s more than makes up for the shock.
--Waffles will just about bounce out his skin trying for your attention. Jerry Lee even though the majority of the time will pretend she’s to old to move. Even manages to give a bark or two. Rosily just about meows herself unconscious trying to get your attention.
--The majority of the time I’ll make the run for ice because I can't stand hot coffee. At first my wife thought it was a tad strange but slowly accepted the fact she married a whack a doodle. Now of course it seems everybody is getting on the bandwagon when it comes to cold coffee. Sure does make you wonder. Because years ago when I ordered a cup of coffee with a glass of  ice no water at a diner I got weird looks.
--Of course taking the time to acknowledge the little fools makes waking up a slow process. But hey I figure they put so much effort into saying good morning they deserve of few moments of recognition.....

BARGAINS AND BUG-A-BOO'S....

--There's nothing like finding that hidden bargain amidst a cavalcade of high priced tidbits. Sometimes I tend to get on my wife nerves pushing the cart humming the theme song to Indiana Jones. But over the years she's learned to block the majority of my shenanigans out. Raising six children has probably helped. Even though she denies it.
--Along with the adventure of finding that little bargain you might stumble across with a lot of patience. You of course have to worry about the bug- a- boos of pitfalls. You know the bargains with a bug- a- boo hiding inside. Buy one get one free but when you do the math you realize you paid for the free one. Or the old five for a trap. Again when you do the math you find out all they did was add the little bug- a -boo's up and give you a price. You might of saved a few penny’s but the store got you to buy five of them.
--But like everything thing if your careful. And take your time you can avoid the little traps and have an adventure in the process....

BRIGHT LIGHT'S OF THE MORNING...

--Even though it can get a tad annoying trying to navigate with all the dang fool light. It sure as Sam hill better than stumbling around in semi darkness.
--Oh I wasn't always convinced of the fact but like everything else my wife helped me become accustomed to the realities of life.
--I’ll give the women credit she sure was consistent. No matter how much I protested the first thing she did was open every curtain in the house. And windows weather permitting.
--Like everything else it seam’s the best way to get something through some bodies head is consistency. And she sure as Sam hill is consistent. Bless her little heart.
--Of course now I’ve been known to do a little Curtain yanking myself. Even though the light is a tad much it sure as Sam hill better than sitting around feeling like you've been wailed on with a bag of rocks all day. And just like the old cat Dinky sometimes you'll find me just sitting in a brightly lit window fighting with the dang fool cat over the sunshine.....

CAT NAPPING....

--Sometimes it's amazing what you can learn if you open up your mind around the possibility’s. For years my wife would be ambling right along doing her thing and then would abruptly announce she had to lie down for a quick nap. Twenty minutes later she'd be up totally refreshed and bopping right along again.
--Of course when we first got married I just figured it was another of her quirky little delight's of cat behavior she'd kept hidden when we were dating.
--Over the year's it's finally gotten through my think head that a twenty minute recharge can reset your batteries and give you that little boast you need to make it through the day.
--Of course if my wife's behavior wasn't enough to change my thick headed option there were the countless examples of whack a doodle cat and their little catnapping shenanigans.
--But like I said as with everything else the dang fool women brought myself slowly around to her way of thinking. Bless her little heart. I wouldn't know what I’d do without my twenty minute cat naps......

FOGGY MORNING WAKE-UP....

--Drinking coffee with the old cat Dinky can be a real treat. Providing he can control his head butting and constant licking of area's I’d rather not see when I’m trying to wake up. Usually he's pretty good. He’ll sit there and tell me about his night or just enjoy the quiet.
--This morning he was in a real titter and it wasn't until the sun came up I started to realize why. From somewhere only mother nature knows a fog rolled in that was so thick you couldn’t even see out the window. Before my over active imagination could get started I reminded myself it's just fog not a time shift to another dimension.
--Of course taking the dogs out was a little tricky. But it's amazing what a few baby steps and a swinging cane can accomplish. Of course they weren't happy about the whole thing. But I hung around to keep them company.
--The cats who hang around the house had to be reassured to. So that took a bit of time. It seam’s a five minute job had turned into forty-five minute’s. But hey it could have been worse at least it wasn't snowing. And of course after everybody got back in the house the dang fool thing burned off.....

A FOOL AND HIS SHOES...

--Only a cat would think it's funny to leave a dead mouse in your shoe when he was through playing with it.
--Only a dog would pee on your shoe while you were wearing it and look hurt because you didn't seem to appreciate it.
--Only a kitten would make a game out of clawing your shoe up if you made the mistake of leaving it out where he could find it when you weren’t wearing it.
--And only a fool would think any of this was funny but you got to admit in a weird way it kind of is...

SOUNDS OF SUMMER….

--The sounds of summer are always the easiest to endure. But like everything else they pass with time. You hear the mowers in the yards cutting grass. The birds are chirping and the dogs are barking. You have an increase of traffic flow to horns a blasting. Mean while the fact that summer is here is too much of a treat to let such little things ruin your sleep.
--Oh it sounds so simple but in fact can be a very big dimple if allowed to intrude. On what little sleep we can achieve from the bothersome noises that the summer brings to our ears.
--Waiting for the end of the storm of thunder and lightning is about all you can do. Another test of summer’s noise provided for us to hear. The rewards are there when we make it through and a rainbow appears.
--Sounds can be festive if you enjoy going to the parks to listen to the bands play. Or perhaps to an outdoor concert. It can be jovial to hear the audio of sizzles, whistles and bangs from fireworks at a carnival or a holiday celebration. Summer sounds can be a cock-a-hoop to all…..

A BIGGER PUSH ….

--On the downward slide is where you find your best inspiration.
--Sometimes an emergency provides the boost needed to access the level where creativity is stored.
--Don’t ask me why. Because after all these years I still don’t understand it. But it’s usually when I’m standing up to my butt in muck and mire. That a creative solution will pop up and help me fix the problem.
--Maybe it’s just that an extra spark is needed to get the creative gene going. Or the fact that having a hard head it takes a bigger push. Of course my wife has her view on the subject. And perhaps she’s right. Come to think of it she usually is ….

LITTLE RIPPLES….

--It’s amazing that such little tiny things can cause such little ripples. That it can be felt throughout the whole day. But perhaps that’s the way it’s meant to be by circling our pathway.
--Perhaps it’s not the giant things that make the biggest waves. But the little ripples that gather strength and speed throughout the day that become our tidal wave.
--It’s just a thought. But what if instead of reacting to the little ripples we just let them go on their way. Oh they’d probably be just as happy and our day would probably be less nappy.
--Makes you wonder if perhaps that’s the way it’s suppose to float us with ease through our day with irregular currents that splash us along the way….. 
 

IT’S NOT AS HARD AS IT SEEMS….

--Taking the first step always seems the most difficult after a long night. But once the first one is achieved then the rest follow and the rhythm is your guide.
--The worst one is the first because it’s the hardest you see. But there really is no choice in the matter. Because to hang back is to wallow in the chatter.
--So off you go stumbling along until the rhythm returns. Your equilibrium is accomplished so you can begin again and learn from any past burns. 
--If anything it makes the mornings a delight after a restless night and that’s the best part of life getting over that first step.….

MIND THE CHANGING SEASONS….

--Spring cleaning takes the form of many things I’m finding. Especially as I get older. Being stagnant by winter. My mind was set on just to open the windows and let the fresh air in along with new thoughts.
--After all these years I’m constantly finding that along with the changing seasons. A change in mind set is needed for each of the dang seasons. From the cold weather to the rainy season and with the changes in the humidity.
--Life use to be so simple. Now it seems with every fluctuation in the weather a new mind set is needed in order to function. It does tend to make life interesting to say the least.
--Luckily the ground work was laid out along time ago before it became a necessity. So switching from one season to the next isn't as bad as it used to be....

RIDING THE TRAIN….

--The clock chimes and another hour has past. The day is progressing much to fast. Sitting in my chair watching the sunlight through the window is really comforting and warm. A welcome relief to the nights filled with cool temps and half frozen feet.
--But as always there is the reminder of things left to do. So grabbing my cane I’m off once again to ride the rails. Oh my steps are at a little slower chug. I’m not moving too fast but at least I’m moving my caboose and that’s good for now.
--I may not get to everything that needs to be done and I’ll probably try for a few. But as long as I’m moving the train will to. It's not about the little thing's I’m finding out or even if the train is filled. It's about keeping the line running when you'd rather just sit still off the tracks somewhere.
--I’m sure tomorrow will be better. In the mean time I’ll just keep chugging along and get done what I can till my engine comes to an end…..

THANKFUL FOR THE POWER COMPANY....

--It's not that I’m a real big fan of any one utility but when it comes to the guys who keep our power running I just can't say enough.
--When some whack a doodle took out our power pole during the winter in the middle of a bone chilling storm. They work through the night to replace the pole and get us hooked up. In a really short amount of time.
--And every time we get a tad too much thunder and lighting flying around they usually have us up and running before long.
--Of course when the lights went out yesterday and they got us back up and running in about a hour I was pretty dang burn happy. So much so that I wanted to run up and give them a hug and thank them.
--Of course it was kind of hard with so many people standing in front of the door. Apparently humoring a long winded whack a doodle father doesn't include being embarrassed in your own front yard. Live and learn I guess.
--But I couldn't help but remind the little fools that yard sale season was coming and if they thought I was going to stay locked up in the house they were gravely mistaken. Can anybody say ya-ba-da-ba-do welcome to our yard sale.....

LITTLE TINY CARTS....

--I realize what with people shopping less it's probably must easier to push a little cart around the store. Myself I like the big carts. Not because I like watching them being filled. But because they are nice to lean on when it becomes hard to walk.
--Having never really figured out the mechanics of the dang fool cane to good. I usually look for a big old cart to help me get to the store and around on those days when walking is a real pain in the neck.
--Unfortunately lately when my wife and I are out and about it seems the only thing left in parking lot are little tiny carts. Which I really don't mind but they are real hard to lean on and walk along with. Most of the time when I try I probably look like a circus performer. Let alone dang near kill myself in the process. Because of my weight leaning on the little cart causes it to flip up, twirl about, tip sideways and shoot forward. I am no cart tamer I probably look more like a circus clown.
--One day with no carts in sight I tried hobbling across the parking lot without a cart. I ended up going from car to car setting off car alarms. Needless to say I’ve learned from that experience and now wait for a cart.....

IT FINALLY GAVE IT'S ALL....

--Finally after many years of service the old microwave gave up the ghost. The morning was short of course it being an appliance and all. Oh course my wife put a stop to my plans for a midnight burial bless her heart. Apparently I get carried away sometimes. As she's more than happy to point out that fact.
--Gathering enough jingle to get a replacement was a tad sticky. And then there was the get along with out one effect. Which is a real pain in the neck.
--Keeping in mind that things usually happen in threes. I had to have a long talk with the rest of the appliances before we left to get the new one. You know the one, just to make sure their were no shenanigans when we got home so nothing else broke down. Apparently appliances can be a little snobbish when you try to bring a new one into the home.
--I sometimes think it would be so much easier if they all got along.
--Of course my wife endured my shenanigans with her usual attitude of it's best to just humor the big old whack a doodle. And let him get it out of his system.
--The experience at the store was very enlightening. Apparently microwaves come in all shapes and sizes which prices to match. But after careful consideration and color of course. We were able to get one and not work our way closer to the poor house as a result.
--Of course unpacking the dang fool thing was time consuming. It’s amazing just how much packing material can be packed into a box. Then there was all the introduction that had to be made. First to the children of course and then to the other appliances. As I explained to my wife I was just trying to keep everybody happy.
--So far everything has been going well but unfortunately the coffee pot and toaster and been a little snaky. Apparently they are feeling a little left out. So I had a father to appliance talk with them.

EVEN THE BIRDS ARE FLYING SLOWER....

--Maybe it's me but after all this dang fool rain we've been having it seems every bodies moving a tad slower.
--The dang fool crow who seam’s to hang around our house just to keep a eye on my blue berries seemed to be dragging a tad slow. He made a half hearted attempt at crowing and finally gave up and just sat there giving me the stink eye. I couldn't really blame the fool there was so much moisture in the air breathing was like drinking with a twist.
--I know the cats who hang around outside were a we bit cranky this morning when I was trying to convince the fool dogs it was time to go out and do there business.
--Waffles didn't seem to mind until he flew off the porch and went sliding in a mud puddle disguised as a small pond. The old dog Jerry Lee took one look at the yard and lied down and pretended she was sleeping. I had to pick her up and carry her to her leash. Which was kind of hard feeling like you been wailed on with a bag of rocks all night. Let alone trying to figure out how to use the dang fool cane at the same time.
--When I got to Waffles he was trying to open the front door. But fortunately the knob was a tad too high. So again I had to carry the little fool to his run.
--When I got back to the porch I ended up being mauled by the old cats Hansel and Peek. I guess they were just happy it stopped raining. Not wanting to waste the moment I visited for a few minutes. Cats are like that when they want attention your better off spending the few precious moments. Than passing them by. They are a lot like children I guess.
--Of course by that time the dang fool dogs make it known they were done and had enough of nature disguised as a swamp. So I had to hobble out and retrieve the fools. Which probably wouldn't have been too bad but I forgot my dang fool cane.
--But all in all it was the start of a pretty good day. Of course with the promise of more rain in the forecast it promise’s to be an interesting night. But hey at least it's not snowing. At least for now....

WALKING THROUGH THE FOG....

--Even though the noon day hour has come and gone. And the sun is in the downward decent.
--It seems the day has just begun instead of half spent.
--Perhaps its because the fog has lifted or space and time have some how shifted.
--Either way it does play out there’s things to do and no more time to lay about. So putting forth with your intended best you try for another go. Hoping this time to at least make it to round three or four before you know. The fog just hit’s the floor….

YARD SALE ROUND UP....

--Going to yard sales is kind of fun. Going to yard sales that are antique sales a little fun if you like looking at old stuff. Going to yard sales that are actually former stores excess stock sales. It’s kind of fun because you see different thing I guess. Not so much fun if your looking for bargains. But every once in a while you find something unique. That you would not see in a store because it is rare or original.
--It seems every since all the online HULLABALOO going to yard sales has taken on a new meaning. Everyone is expecting to get fair market value for their stuff. Which is probably fair. Except of course if your looking for bargains and don't feel like paying above retail for stuff better suited for dumpster fillers. But I guess it’s a case of supply and demand.
--It seems to me mentioning a few of these things when they place their add would be beneficial to them. And also for the people looking for something to do and thinking about going to yard sales. You know reach your audience and not just anybody looking for something to do.
--But it could be worse I guess. And usually driving around is kind of nice as long as you stay away from four way stops. And don't mind all the extra excise. Waking up long driveways will give you that. And sometimes you can meet and chat with some of the nicest people......

WINDOW DRESSING....

--My wife thinks I’m a little strange when I get excited because a store has gone out of there way to dress up there windows a bit. Either with a preview of what's on sale or with what every charity there supporting at the moment. Or some good old fashion community event's.
--It seems lately not to many places bother. Usually you'll see a sign or to but there just reminders that in order to keep prices down they have installed cameras all over the place. Sometimes shopping takes on a whole new meaning I guess. Especially when the prices that are supposed to be kept down are in some other store.
--Holidays are fun because it seems like the only time stores put much effort into dressing up there windows. But then again it gets kind of confusing when the store's calendar and the rest of the world’s calendar are a little off. But hey at least there trying I guess.
--Looking through the flyer's for up coming sales was fun for awhile. Until most store's apparently figure why bother sending out flyer when there really wasn't any place else to shop. But I guess it could be worse at least they usually have a few by the door when you get there.
--So when I happen across a store that puts a little effort into dressing up their windows I get a little excited. My wife usually hits the parking lot at a fairly good clip because she knows what is going to happen when I eventually hobble in. For some reason I just love pointing out those old dang fool low prices when I can find them......

LETTING THE MORNING SUN SHINE IN....

--It was so simple just open the curtains. But like everything else it's the simplest answer's that are the hardest to comprehend.
--The one thing missing was the one surely needed the sun. By the simple fact of omission of rain thereby lies the remission of the darkest clouds.
--It's amazing what you find when you stumble on your way around the house. Perhaps it was your little voice trying once again to speak and not your big old feet.
--But now that the answer has been revealed you can bet it'll be one of the first things done to have some fun. First I chase the cats around the table and in return they decide to chase me. Then I get swatted by Dinky. He really does not like to be chased. So its off to the living room where jinks the Siamese cat climbs up the book case only to jump on the first child that comes in contact of her area of fun. Squash is half Siamese and a black and white bobtail who just runs about 90 miles a hour bouncing off one piece of furniture to the next piece. The children come to the living room to see what  all the ruckus is and jinks jumps down on them. They scream in surprise and start to run. This starts getting Casper and Bug eyes to join in the fun by attacking the children’s feet to get their toes. They really should be wearing shoes these cats do have a toe fetish you know. The two dogs start to bark getting excited and want to join in. Another door opens and in they come only to knock me on my keester. Everyone is laughing and playing with me to brighten my day. My wife sits down beside me and smiles as she tells me it looks like a tornado just hit us but it was sure fun .….

FREE TO SPEAK MY MIND....

 --Standing rather than sitting is such a simple thing. Should you let it wave in a parade or hide it in a closet just because they say it offends.
--Oh the questions that do arise when you set out to apologize and make a amends to thee.
--Myself I say long may it wave, proud and free. And as far as standing or sitting well that’s a choice best left to you and to me.
--I pray that all who find these little things offending find peace of mind. As for me I’m proud to be an American where at least I’m free to speak my mind and show my spirit. I stand here today and salute you for what freedoms we have left and haven‘t been taken from us yet. So paint me a rainbow of RED, WHITE, and BLUE that waves through our sky that it‘s all right to be humble when it comes to our flag. After all it does represent our country that we cherish so much for so long.
--I give my praise to all those veterans of Foreign Wars and our veterans here today for protecting our county for so many years gone by. With out you I am sure I would not live in such a free spirited county to speak my   opinions and have freedom of choices. Bless you all and good will to you our veterans of  today.
--So on June fourteenth you wave that flag in the air we freely breath. Because it’s a holiday on our calendar. Flag Day has been celebrated for so many years.

WAITING FOR THE DRIPPING ORACLE OF THE MAGIC BEAN...

--Somebody misplaced the beginning of a perfectly good day with a mishmash of thing's better left for later.
--Just didn't seem right but what are you going to do sometimes you just have to play the hand your dealt by karma.
--Try as you might you can't find the momentum to get started because you forgot to make coffee the night before. And are forced to wait for the dripping oracle of the magic bean.
--I guess sometimes it pays to plan ahead but then again sometimes it's good to forget to. It just makes you appreciate it better than before.

WILL IT OR WON'T IT?....

--I like rain especially on a really hot sweat dripping day. Usually it cools things off so they’re not so dang burn it hot. Rain that comes accompanied by lightning I really don’t care for so much. But what can you do except grab your life preserver and learn to drown out the noise and float through the flashes.
--Waiting to see if the electric is going to go out is a tad nerve racking and perplexing at times. Especially in a house containing pets and children. Who more or less live by the spinning meter.
--When you try to inform them of the olden days before all the modern do- dads and thing- a- bobs the response is usually a rolling of the eyes and mumbling. But like the good parent you are you inform them with the many misadventure of your childhood delights. I often wonder if my children say a silent prayer each night to the power company so they are spared the whole ordeal. Knowing my children they probably do.
--Of course like everything else in life you have to take the good with the bad. And try for a middle ground where everybody’s happy. Even if it means spending hours listening to your long winded father when the electric goes out I guess......

WHAT IN SAM HILL HAPPENED?....

--Sometimes looking at the every day trials and tribulations of everyday life you just want to sit back and scratch your head and ask yourself what in Sam hill happened?
--Walking through the daily headlines is enough to convince you that the hand basket were in is in a downward spiral. Most days trying to find a little good news is worse than looking for a needle in a haystack.
--When it comes for what passes for entertainment. I just might go bald with all the scratching I end up doing. It's getting harder and harder to make it through a movie or TV show. Thank god for remote and that good old off button.
--I have never figured out the politics of life. And the contest's their constantly having. Usually it reminds me of the contest's we used to have around the campfire to see who could tell the biggest lie. Again that's probably just me.
--It seems to me if everybody stopped pointing finger’s and jumping on a soapbox every time something didn't go their way. We might be a little better off. But then again what in Sam hill do I know. I guess trying to get along with each other is such a foreign concept it'll be awhile before people realize it might work......

THE SWEET SMELL OF RAIN....

--Even though every time it rains it usually sends my day in a downward spiral. I do enjoy the sweet smell of rain. Rain seems to wash everything outside giving them a new fresh appearance. But like everything else in life to much of a good thing will usually make you feel worse.
--My wife is part duck she likes walking, standing, or even dancing in the rain. She gets a tad goofy when it rains. But that's probably what attracted me to her in the first place. That big old hidden streak of goofiness she has. Her free spirit is comical and refreshing like the rain.
--Sitting in the car waiting for the rain to stop to enter a store is not a real treat for me. Not so bad while it's going on but slightly unsettling when it's done. For some reason the muggy smell of wet parking lot reminds me of wet dogs. But that's probably just me.
--Making your way across the parking lot with a cart full of stuff is a real treat when it‘s raining cats and dogs so hard you become totally soaked by time you reach your car. Especially when your car has a sense of humor and unlocks every door except the one you’re trying to put stuff in. Of course my wife has no problem with this. The dang fool car unlocks her door every time. But what do you expect it's her car.
 --My wife believes the rain sounds romantic when you can hear the drops hit the roof of our house. She usually entices me with a candle light dinner.Preparing something special I enjoy eating. Or perhaps she does it to take my mind off all the aches and pain that comes with the sweet smell of rain....

THE SADDEST PART OF THE RIDE....

--As far as I’m concerned there's nothing worse than riding along enjoying the ride when wham-o you pass a mutilated animal body either in the road or along side of it. Maybe it's just me but it tends to put a damper on the ride. But then again I was never was one to enjoy much gore in my life.
--It seems kind of hard to believe that we as a society can not find the compassion in ourselves to slow down a bit and give the poor animals a chance. But then again what can you expect from a country that seems to enjoy making live harder for those less fortunate. And seems to excel at finding ways of making sure those that are not, are given all more breaks.
--While the oppressed continue to shout about the injustice of life in general. The ones who are not continue to count there accumulated jingle and keep stacking the coins. Oh well I guess it could be worse at least there not human bodies littering the road.
--Maybe when we find the compassion to slow down a tad and give the animals a chance we might be on the way to fixing a few of the thing's going so seriously wrong in this great country of ours. But then again what in Sam hill do I know. Maybe we are afraid to cross that road too.....

ACCEPTING THE INCONSISTENCIES OF LIFE….

--Catering to the inconsistencies of life by making excuses for them is a bad choice that will send a good day into a downward spiral.
--Sometimes it’s better to accept the little inconsistencies and continue on. Rather than run willy- nilly in the wrong direction all through the day.
--I know it doesn’t sound like much of a plan but sometimes you just have to go with what you got.
--In the long run it’ll save a lot of time and make it possible to keep a day progressing along a good track. And that’s what matters I guess….

BULGING BAGS....

--Shopping can be fun I guess if you want it to be. Looking at all the pretty sparkle’s and do dad's and such. Getting through a checkout line with your sanity in tack sometimes is hard to do. Depending on where you shop of course. Some store's are real nice with your accumulations. Some store's really don’t care so much. They just whip the stuff in your cart and wait for their jingle.
--Some store's offer to double bag the heavy stuff for you so you don’t end up with a ripped bag and your stuff falling through their thin plastic bag. Some store's offer no bags but all the flimsy boxes you can handle. Some store's like to test the principle of just how much a flimsy plastic bag will hold. By packing as much into the dang fool things as possible.
--Some store's have twenty to thirty checkout's with only two of them open. And some store's only have one checkout that never ever closes. But you have to wait in a really long line. There are a few stores that have about five checkout’s then its usually smooth and quick to cash out.
--Some checkout's are so darn friendly you just want to keep buying stuff so you can just hang around because they make you feel good and happy to be there. These store’s will get repeated customers for sure. And some store's getting through the line is a test of patience.
--The point is shopping can be fun or a real bad experience if you let all the negatives get to you. It’s all in how you look at it and which store you chose to shop at......

FILLING IN HOLES....

--There's something about filling in holes that really peak's my interest. Maybe it's the possibility of not tripping in the dang fool things or just playing in the dirt.
--Either way while waiting patiently for the dang fool rain to take a break. Running a list of outside jobs up the flag pole seems the thing to do. Of course gathering help is a tad harder. But like everything else with a little patience you can find the children and get some help. The dogs are more than willing to help for they love to dig and have made a few holes of their own that need to be filled in.
--It's probably just me but there's something to be said for walking without tripping in the same dang fool hole constantly. It sort of puts a damper on your day and some bruises on your body.
--Of course there's also the whole dirt thing too. I guess at sometime we all revert to our childhood of playing in the dirt with tools. There’s something to be said for digging up a load of dirt and running around filling holes in that just sort of makes me smile. Of course my wife thinks I’m weird about the whole thing. But I notice she does not complain too much. Every year when we have to make a go of the whole thing I wonder if there is a better solution to the whole problem of new holes. We could get a load of stones and have the driveway tarred if we could afford it. Or get rid of the dogs but that’s getting rid of our help to fill them in…..

MOWING AROUND STUMPS.....

--It's a pain in the neck mowing around stumps. Especially if they are close to the ground and the grass is quite tall. It tends to put a damper on the day if you misstep and run one over. It sort of like dealing with whack a doodle’s. You know there out there you just try to make every encounter as painless as possible. Sometimes it works sometimes not so much.
--Personally I think it would be so much easier if whack a doodles would wear a sign but I guess it doesn't work that way in life. My wife keeps pointing it out to me. I’ve got nothing against anybody I just wish it wasn't so dang burn hard to keep from running into these people. And it's usually at the worse time. When you least expect it.
--Like four way stops where nobody can remember what in Sam hill a stop sign means. Or when your checking your mail and feel the breeze from a pickup truck’s mirror on your check as it passes by. Now I know how the dang fool animals feel when they get to close to the road. Or better yet leaving a grocery store and almost being run over by somebody going way to fast in a parking lot.
--It's getting to be an adventure just leaving your dang fool driveway each time. I suppose it could be worse they could stop for a visit. Come to think of it I do have to hang up a new mailbox every once in awhile. And we did have somebody pull in the driveway totally miss the driveway and take out a row of lilacs looking for our neighbors. Not to mention the few times our neighbor forgot where in Sam hill his driveway was and drove through the front yard and out our driveway.
--I guess it could be worse. At least all we have to worry about are whack a doodle crows dropping from the sky....

THANK GOD FOR UPDATE'S.....

--I like updates, they’re like little nuggets of happiness that keep you abreast of the current situation. Preview or coming attractions are fun because you get a glimpse of things coming. When it comes to news you can pretty much tell what’s going on by the first 60 seconds or so. Books are fun because again it's usually just enough to peek your interest.
--When it comes to computers well that's another case I guess. Even though the update makers swear what their doing is in your best interest. For some dang fool reason 85% of their updates are a real pain in the butt. And usually makes things a whole lot worse. The only good thing is sometimes they point out the weakness with your computer. A more than suttle reminder to fix the little bug-a-boo's before the next dang fool update.
--I suppose it could be worse. At least 15% of the dang fool things don't give many problems. Maybe someday they will work the number down. In the meantime I look forward to the coming attraction’s and news updates while I’m waiting......

ENJOYING THE DAYS...

--So afraid so full of fear to let anyone near. Protecting all that they hold dear.
--Without a doubt a wonder to watch the crazy little whack a doodle dance of the Have and the Have Not's.
--Never could understand and always thought it more than a little strange. But what can you do with the whack a doodle do’s.
--In the end it take's all kinds to make up this world of ours. A prayer for those who feel the need to protect what nobody else wants. May you find peace in your never ending quest. As for me I’ll just enjoy the day's as they come and go.…

WHAT DO YOU THINK?....

--Over the years I come to the conclusion that the four little words( what do you think) are a trap in the making. Usually I take a moment to respond. Of course being human I’ve fallen into the what do you think trap quite a few times over the years.
--The trap itself is quite clever because you run it up the flag pole for the person thinking that they actually want your option. When actually what they want sometimes is to just hear you ramble on and on. Usually you find this out when they walk away and do the exact opposite of what in Sam hill you were talking about.
--And then there’s the other case were the person wants nothing more than to be told what to do. This in effect saves them the effort from having to make a decision. Either way when it all falls apart you end up being the blame.
--Now I don't blame them it just gets a tad tiring. Being held responsible for your own mistakes and the mistakes you made over the years is one thing. But for the mistake of advising people and giving my opinion when asked I don’t believe I should be accountable.
--As I’ve gotten older I’ve become more reserved about certain thing's and one of them is giving advice. Now I try to keep it somewhat simple. By pointing out what works for me and letting people known that everyone needs to find there own way of making thing's work. It’s probably not the best system. But it seems to be working so far.
--That’s not to say I won't lend an ear to someone who wants to chat. Because I will it's just I’m learning to be real careful about what advice I’ll offer.....