Calamity Kris

I couldn't agree more. My sister took out lots of loans and grants to complete a BS in................Ornithology. {The study of birds}. She spent 10 years in junior college {No kidding} going to school part time, then 6 years at the university level, again attending only part time. She did not work through this whole time frame so she could "focus on school". She completed her university studies 10 years ago and still doesn't have a job of any kind. She is overjoyed her debt is being forgiven....................... I was the opposite. I started working in a factory right out of high school to be able to earn my own way. I started college when I had enough money to be able to pay for it. I selected a field that the company would help pay for. If I kept my grades up, which I worked hard to do, the company re-reimbursed me at a specific percentage. When I completed my degree, I received a promotion and a bonus with a stipulation that I had to remain with the company for a specified period of time after graduation or pay the money back. I stayed and it worked well for me.

We were in the area of your old haunts. We stayed at the Ayers on SB Blvd. In-And-Out is half a block away from the hotel. Also paid a visit to Katella Deli and had a couple of wonderful dinners. Enjoy your trip.

Something a little different........

My favorite is a double double protein style........ We have a tradition, if you will, every time we visit Cali, we stop at In-and-Out after we land. This last visit was no exception. I do agree the burgers have slipped some in the last few years but they're still great. We also order the fries extra crispy and they come out great

Harsh but honest............. A couple of years ago, I purchased a new sewing machine. I was asked what I wanted for birthday/Christmas (they are VERY close together). I sent links to accessories or even a gift certificate for some vendors I could use. I received a neeto flashlight because they couldn't think of anything to give me. The next year, I asked for a pair of slippers because mine wore out and I needed new ones. I printed pictures from websites with descriptions, color choices and prices, all fairly reasonable. My severe foot and back issues are well known so I was very specific on what I wanted/needed. I received slippers from another vendor because it was thought I would like them better. (read, they were cheaper) The next year, I asked for a gift certificate to the local quilt shop where I purchased my sewing machine so I could purchase accessories or classes from them. I received cash because I didn't need to buy any more fabric and they didn't know what to get me or have the time to shop. What I don't want for birthday/Christmas this year.......................to be ignored again...............

If the photographer didn't ask my permission before snapping away, I would ask them politely to cease. If they didn't I would gently but forcibly escort them to the door. End of conversation. I would then inform them if any of these images appeared on Social media, I would initiate legal action. If that didn't get through, I would tell them it's been nice knowing them as I pushed them out the door.

That's very sweet of you. Thanks. I've really enjoyed seeing/hearing what other folks listen to. It broadens my horizons as well.

Another one of my favorite "Swingers"

Speaking so swing.........

That was interesting. Thanks. NRBQ does it with kind of a swing vibe. It's a lot of fun to listen to. If you should find it, you 'll enjoy it.

I would use mushrooms in my stew, as well as barley. Makes for a really hearty stew.

There is a piece by JS Bach that was interpreted by NRBQ, Capriccio, that I've been trying to get a recording of. I'm not able to find one but if you do, you'll really enjoy it. It's on their "Tapdancin' Bats" album from 1983.

ON the other side of the state from St. Pete, we got 13 inches of rain in less than 24 hours. You read that correctly. We're glad it finally stopped raining. Several streets nearby had flooded. The nearby town told everyone to stay off the roads unless it was an emergency because they were tired of getting rescue driver calls. We needed rain too but not all at once.

Prayers continuing.

Linn, I appreciate your turn of a phrase. You are a master wordsmith. Yes, being and old smokey and EMS from the dark ages, I've see too many alcohol fueled vehicle collisions in my time. (I refuse to call them "accidents" because drinking then driving is a deliberate act.) I'm always hyper aware of my surroundings and the actions of others behind the wheel, especially during this time of year. I hope the Jeep driver wasn't seriously injured and will face severe consequences for his actions. Stay safe, Pards. The season of crazy is upon us. I would like to see you come out the other side on January 2.

Prayers up for the best possible outcome.

Prayers continuing.

Prayers up for complete healing.

Love that song. Here's another version with a cool video. The light show was done to commemorate the passing of Walter Becker.

We went to bed in the middle of the 8th. I see we didn't miss much. Well, we're up for a 7 game series.

Clay, you and Filly did the right thing for Lacey. We've seen that with our Shepherds as well. You will meet again at the Rainbow Bridge. Congrats on Hannah. She looks like a beautiful pup. Wish you many years of happiness together.

Prayers up.

Our local Costco sells Lasagna Ravioli. It's layers of cheese ravioli instead of lasagna noodles between layers of meat sauce. We rather enjoy it.

Some pretty AP for the morning.

I have SXM subscriptions in Uno's truck, my car and the house. {Since we had a metal roof installed, I will need to install an external antenna for the house.} I have the app on my phone. I have a bluetooth set up in the sewing room so I can connect my phone to a couple of small speakers and stream SXM there. My internet capable receiver in the great room also has a couple of stations I have just started listening to. I can't function without music.