"Pink Tissues"...Really?!?

I’m not the kind of guy that gets overly excited about a box of Kleenex.  But a while back, Jill bought several boxes of tissue at the supermarket to have on hand and to put in the bathrooms and in a couple of other ‘select’ locations around the house.  One of the boxes, however, caught my eye.  It wasn’t just a regular rectangular box of tissue, the kind we all grew up with; it was one of the new ‘designer’ boxes that are supposed to look nice and perhaps add a ‘little class’ to one’s décor.

The box of tissue that I really liked was a square box of Kleenex that had a chess game design of a black and tan chessboard and had chess men on all four sides.  It was a handsome box, a manly-man kind of box that anyone would be proud to own and display in any prominent location in their home for all to see and enjoy; almost like a piece of fine art!

"Kleenex Decor"

For a box of Kleenex, it actually looked quite nice, and it really did fit in with our décor. We put the box of Kleenex at the game table in the corner of the family room, which surprisingly has a chess board with all the king’s men set up and is ready to play a game at any time. 

Several weeks later Jill went back to the super and bought more of the ‘chess game’ boxes of Kleenex.  Now there’s also one of the boxes of Kleenex at the ‘Command Center’ and one on the nightstand by my side of the Big Bed, and they've been there for a long time.

These were the coolest looking Kleenex boxes that I had ever seen and we would use them, and when empty, just throw the box away, …um … I mean ‘recycle’ them with little or no regard to the fact that someday the boxes would no longer be available; or with little or no regard to the "genious's" who would come to design  future boxes of Kleenex.

 

Well, one day Jill went to the super to get some more cool boxes of Kleenex and the inevitable and the unthinkable happened. She couldn’t find the Kleenex boxes with the chess men design.   Why would any Kleenex box designer in their right mind divert from such a classic and handsome design and move on to some stupid, ugly ‘art deco’ patterns and  designs with lame pastel colors that wouldn’t look good in a bathroom , or even in a hospital room for that matter?  We needed some Kleenex so Jill bought a couple of the ‘ugly’ boxes of tissues along with the other supplies and brought them home.

The Kleenex box at the Command Center was empty and it needed to be replaced.  I got one of the new 'ugly' boxes and looked at it; then I looked at my empty chess men box of Kleenex – then it hit me – a stroke of brilliance.  Sort of an Ah-Ha moment for me …I carefully opened the side flaps of the chess men box, then I opened the 'ugly' box in the same way and simply removed the whole stack of new tissues and inserted them into the chess men box.  Perfect.  It worked like a charm.

 

Then, I carefully sealed up the side flaps with a small piece of invisible scotch tape and -voila!- it appeared to be a brand new chess men box of Kleenex, and no one would ever be the wiser!

Well, this Kleenex tissue replacement ritual has been going on for a couple of years now. Everything has been just fine with this whole thing until recently.  Jill went shopping and she knew that we'd eventually need more tissues, and well, on this particular trip to the super, Jill just grabbed a couple of “pink” designer boxes of replacement Kleenex to have on hand.

 

I guess Kleenex tissues come in different colors and the ‘buyer’ should be on the lookout to make sure that the tissues are ‘white’, regardless of box color or box design.  When the time came again to refill my manly-man box of Kleenex tissue at the Command Center, I grabbed one of the pink boxes from the pantry. I opened the box and believe it or not, I found pink tissues in the pink box.  Wow, how pretty!?

 

Needless to say I wasn’t really thrilled about this.  I showed Jill and explained, “Now dear, if you look carefully at the box of Kleenex and 'actually read what color the tissues are' you may have noticed that it says "pink tissues" right on the box..”   “Sweet!”, I exclaimed.  I couldn’t have been more excited.

Pretty in Pink, isn't it!

I said to Jill, “Pink tissues, eh?  You really expect me to use pink tissues in my manly-man box of Kleenex at the Command Center?  Really?  What if somebody sees me?  What would they think? I can’t believe it!  Now, can you imagine….ME using pink tissues?  Really?   How embarrassing!  Pink Tissues! - Really?" 

"Well, I don’t even know who you are anymore!"

Not wanting to be wasteful and just throw out the 'pretty little things', I inserted them into my manly-man box of Kleenex and forced myself to use up all the pink tissues, being cautious not to let anyone see me.  It wasn’t easy for me, but I struggled through it.

Now I think Jill is a little more careful and is very aware of the ‘replacement tissues’ that she buys at the super, but I really think she bought the “pink tissues” on purpose! 

Just sayin’!

P.S. Just days ago, our daughter L discovered this phenomenon of tissue replacement, and I believe her perception of "reality" here at The Compound  has been shattered.  I think she may be a little concerned by my strange, but brilliant behavior, if not totally disturbed and haunted by this forever!

Come to think of it, it does give a whole new meaning to the term "tissue replacement", doesn't it?

One last note - These handsome "objet d'art" designer Kleenex boxes have been the target of many a would-be-thief. Not sayin' who, but we did recently have two guests from the San Diego area!  ...Hmm

Happy Father's Day!

I've always wanted a little red sports car and this is what I got?    BWAH!?!

If It's Not One Thing, It's Another!

We’ve had so many late season snow storms this year at The Compound that we thought spring would never get here.   I think I saw a partly cloudy sky during one or two days a few weeks ago, but that was it.  That must have been “Spring.” Now it’s all about the rain.

The weather man’s forecast; I hate the weather man, (except for you, Al Roker) the forecast sounds like a broken record; more snow in the mountains above the elevation of 6,350 feet or whatever, and rain in the valley.  The benches will most likely see a mix of moisture, more rain than snow but maybe a little snow, - blah-blah-blah!  Shit, the damn weather man is never right when it comes to predicting the stupid weather, but this go ‘round he can’t seem to miss. 

Hell, at least he ought to make up something, mix it up a little and make me guess again.  At least that was something to look forward to.

Now it just rains and rains and rains some more.   At least it’s not snowing here…….yet.  I don’t know what Mother Nature is up to, but we haven’t seen the sun for so damn long, I’ve forgotten what it looks like.  As of today, we have officially broken the all-time record for the wettest spring on record here at The Compound.  Big wow…

Green is the overwhelmingly prominent color of the moment here right now and the grass is so damn long, the yard people (by people I mean K), can’t get a mow in edgewise. In fact, it’s been so wet here; even the rocks are starting to turn green.  Hmm…I wonder what that means?

I hate to complain, ‘cause when I do, Jill always comes back with the – “we need the water story,” and “be glad the sprinklers haven’t been turned on yet,” etc. etc. etc.

Now, that all of the trees have their leaves on full display, and they’re so big from all of the rain, I’m just waiting for one last big monster snow storm to dump a foot and a half of wet heavy snow and totally destroy the trees.  I really hate that.

If you think about it, all this wet weather at The Compound gives a whole new meaning to the term “Going Green!”

“Hey, up there…anybody - A little sunshine would sure be nice!!!”

I’ll bet the next thing I hear from that damn weatherman’s forecast is to expect sunny skies and hotter than normal temperatures for the next six months.   He’ll probably be back to normal and .....wrong again!

Wait a minute - I think I saw a shadow!   Is that Sunshine?  Could it be?  Really?    Wow, Unbelievable!   
Oh – forever the optimist I am!    ...I think?!

Memorial Day At The Compound!

Memorial Day at The Compound started off right as rain.  Actually, as a matter of fact, it really was raining; but in an attempt to not let that 'dampen' our spirit of celebration, I persisted and mixed up a couple of tasty Treat-Treats for me and Jill and continued making preparations for the big event.

I can’t remember for sure, but I believe Memorial Day is supposed to have something to do with memories…or remembering something, or someone.  I think it’s usually on a Monday for some reason.  I’m sure it will come to me sooner or later, but I’ll keep trying to remember on my own before I have to call and ask somebody.  (Just try to picture me sitting here on my little ol' bar stool thinking...Hmmm...perhaps adding a little Jeopardy theme music may help me out here.  Is Alex Trebek here? …Anybody?)

I think it has something to do with potato salad, deviled eggs, and grilling or BBQ.  I think maybe you’re even supposed to fly the flag on this day…especially on this day.  Hmmm…I’m thinking, I’m wondering, I’m still thinking, I’m thinking some more…Hmmm…Wait – I think I’ve got it!  It’s all starting to come back to me…  Yep…I’ve got it!

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May.  Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. Service Members who died while in the military service.  It was first enacted by an organization of Union veterans, the Grand Army of the Republic, to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War.  It was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Memorial Day also marks the official start and Kick-Off to Summer Festival at The Compound, which is also observed nationwide, by everyone, everywhere.

Begun as a ritual of remembrance (there’s that remembering thing I was talking about) and reconciliation after the Civil War, by the early 20^th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, (more memory stuff again) as ordinary people visited the grave sites of their deceased relatives, whether they had served in the military or not. 

It has also become an increasingly popular long weekend event, devoted to family get-togethers, backyard barbecues, (see - there’s that BBQ thing) fireworks, trips and vacations, etc. etc.  I think they even have a really big car race somewhere!

Traditionally, many people observe Memorial Day by visiting local cemeteries and memorials.  A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m.  Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn ‘til noon local time.  I think they have a big celebration in Washington D.C. too!

Also, because Memorial Day is generally associated with the start of the summer season, it’s common tradition to inaugurate the outdoor cooking season on Memorial Day with a big ol' barbecue party.

Well, I think that’s what Memorial Day is supposed to be about…or something like that!

Anyway, we’ll celebrate Memorial Day here at The Compound, - our way - just like we always do, no matter how they celebrate it anywhere else!  But this year, it's extra special here at The Compound 'cause we're having a Big Ol' Birthday Celebration too!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY 'A'!   …just sayin’

Ya’ll have a good ol' time at your very own BBQ parties.

Big Weekend At The Compound!

It’s been quite a spell since we’ve had an overnight guest here at The Compound that was so young, but G-3 was scheduled to arrive early on Thursday morning.  This was the weekend that we’d been warned…I mean told about.  The time had come, and GG, (Grandpa Gary) and GJ, (Grandma Jill) were called into action. 

R and A “needed” a little R and R…a few days off and just wanting to get away from it all, (getting away from it all…I don’t get it), but anyway…Our weekend began early on Thursday morning right on time with Mom and Dad dropping off G-3 along with all of her “stuff.”   It’s all very important and necessary for the proper care and well-being for someone this young and this important, we’re told.  After an hour or so of review with R and A and getting things set up, (by the way, it took three of us about 15 minutes to set up just the play pen), and organizing the “stuff” that we needed to have here at The Compound,  in order to be the proper and thorough care givers for G-3, and we figured we were finally ready for the big weekend. 

Unfortunately, the Guest Cottage had already been booked for the long Memorial Day weekend here for the big “Annual Kick-Off to Summer Festival.”  Although, certainly a major disappointment for G-3 not getting to stay in the famed Guest Cottage, she was offered a luxurious private suite in the guest wing inside the Main House.

Just as R and A were about ready to leave for the airport for their much anticipated get-a-way; R turns to A and asks, “Did you give ‘em the list?”  “No…I almost forget, but here it is!” A responded.  “It’s all there.  It’s pretty self-explanatory.  Everything you need to know should be on the List.  If you have any questions you can give us a call, we’ll have our communication devices with us all the time”, she said as they walked out the front door. “Gotta go, or we’ll miss our flight!” R exclaimed as they both scurried away. 

Jill and I came back in the house and tried to figure out what to do next - while all the time knowing that we would have to get into a new routine fast; one that would keep GJ pretty busy.  G-3 settled in quickly with ne’er a whine or a whimper.  After all, she was at The Compound … how bad could it be?!

I stayed at home for a few hours that morning to help get G-3 reacquainted with the surroundings here and to help out with any issues that may arise with her, you know – like being in a new place so early in the day, and to make sure that everything was going to be O.K.  I had to go to “work”, (after all, it was a Thursday for Pete’s sake), and take care of a few things and run some errands and do some other chores that demanded my attention and needed to be taken care of.

It's A Tea Party!

I’d been gone for several hours and when I returned home, I walked into the house and things seemed to be just fine.  …I sort of thought that when I returned home I would have to step up and help solve some problems regarding G-3 and any potential issues with her Mom and Dad being out of town; but G-3 was playing quietly and contently on the floor with various toys that GJ had put out for her.

But I also noticed something a little weird, almost immediately.  It was as if no one had missed me, or perhaps even knew that I’d been gone for a while.  Don’t get me wrong, I was thrilled that everything was O.K. when I got back home; but it’s as if nobody needed me, not even Jill. It was as if I was no longer the center of attention…Then it hit me - There was a new kid in town.  G-3 was the “new” center of attraction, and she was grabbing the spotlight!

There were no snacks or samplers for me to nibble on when I got home.  I went to get something cold and refreshing from the refrigerator and I realized that the fridge had been cleaned out, and, “reorganized” - to make room for all the “food and things” that G-3 would “need” during her stay here. Then I quickly noticed that my treats had been moved to the wayside...Shit! 

Oh well…I’ll probably get over all of this, ...eventually!

Anyway, I said to Jill, “We’d better take a look at their “List” and see if we’ve forgotten how to do this kid thing.  Maybe we’ll need to take a crash course on child care and development, or maybe we can just wing-it.”  I proceeded to review the list.  It was a fairly thorough list, for relative newcomers to the parenting game, to throw together in such a hurry.  It had the all-important timelines and schedule of events that were to naturally occur, in any given 24 hour day. 

The List started off with the 6:00am wake-up call and the subsequent feeding to get her to go back to sleep, followed by the actual acceptable wake-up time of between 8 and 9; then breakfast at 9:30, then get her dressed, play a little, then a snack at 11:15, then a little more play.  And finally, the mid-day Break for GJ, Nap Time right at noon.

The schedule indicated that Naps should last for 1 to 1.5 hours, then to be followed immediately by lunch, not just any lunch, but a healthy lunch mind you.  Then after lunch, a little more playtime. GJ improvised and kept her busy with a variety of interactive toys, GJ’s special dishes and other treasures from the kitchen drawer, stuffed animals, books and the like.  Then another snack, (man, I think I’ve been missing out on this snack-all-day-long thing for quite some time.  I’ll discuss that issue with The Committee later.) Anyway, the list goes on with yet another nap,  another wake-up, one more snack, some more play, and then a healthy dinner at dinner time.  After dinner, the always important and must have bath-time was to take place.  After the bath we get to watch a Mickey Mouse video, and finally…Bedtime!  (Disclaimer: Surveillance equipment was of course, in place to keep tabs on the toddler, just in case she became unruly during the night!)

Although they were not listed specifically or called for in the timeline or even in the schedule, we soon realized that Diaper changes were necessary and quickly became mandatory chores and occurred at various times throughout the day, with or without warning.

There was also another List outlining healthy food options for each of the multiple feeding sessions and snacks, (I don’t remember ever getting healthy food choices as a kid...Hmm) along with suggested reading lists, cartoon and movie suggestions, etc.  There was also a third List, a list with all the necessary emergency “Contact Info”, you know, doctors, insurance, baby sitters, etc. etc., just in case.

At first glance, their List(s) seemed to be carefully thought through and complete with every possible issue being addressed in one way or another. 

But Not So Fast…my young apprentices - upon further review by The Committee, the List(s) provided by R and A were found to be missing some very important and key details, and needed to be revised and updated for the complete and proper care of G-3 here at The Compound. 

Oh, their List would’ve been just fine for someone who may be easily satisfied with a simple, “No Frills” kind of lifestyle, but here at The Compound, we want everybody to have fun and Live-A-Little, no matter how old they are!

The shortcomings on their List(s), or perhaps, just mere oversights by the new parents – as listed here, may or may not be in order of importance, but are as follows: 

1 - Hugs and snuggles for GG and GJ – after waking up in the morning, before naps, after naps, before bedtime, and pretty much any other time of the day that we can get one.

2 – The popular “Peek-A-Boo” and “Hide and Seek” games with GJ.

3 - Driving down to the gate in the Golf Cart with GG to fetch the morning paper, as well as subsequent rides up and down the lane during the designated play times.

"The Big Bridge"

4 - The Stair-Climber exercise routine, where G-3 instructs GG in the finer points of how to properly go - up and down the staircase, really fast …again and again and again!

5 - Walks in the backyard with GJ to look at the pretty trees, and to learn about nature here at The Compound, and maybe even see some birds!

6 - Tea Time (snack time) at the little white table and chairs in the “Grotto”.

7 - Taking a stroll through the “Grotto” with GJ to study and learn about all the pretty rocks and walk across the “Big Bridge”.  (I can just hear GJ say, "Don't worry dear, we'll cross that "bridge" when we get there!")

8 - Music lessons.  We began with the piano.  The recorder will be next.

9 - The “How To” lessons, learning how to dress up in GJ’s pretty jewelry.

10. – The Art and Design Workshop - learning Coloring Books Skills with GJ.

11 - Every hour – on the hour…to watch and listen for the Cuckoo Clock to say …cuckoo, cuckoo, etc. Not to mention hearing the Grandfather Clock chime in the entry hall. That’s pretty exciting for all of us!

12 - And Last, but not least, “A Big ‘Ol Pillow Fight” with GJ just before bedtime.  Every kid needs to have a pillow fight at sleepovers, and they need to learn how sooner or later!

The Pillow Fight is probably the most exciting event of the day for G-3, next to the Golf Cart rides with GG, of course!

One of the things I’ve learned over the weekend here with G-3, and after telling her lots and lots of stories, is that if I talk long enough, I can put just about anybody to sleep!  (It must be a gift - I didn’t know I had!)

We tried and tried to get R and A to extend their exciting “get-a-way” vacation and enjoy their time away for a few more days.  But I think they were missing G-3 a little too much and returned home anyway, and our weekend with G-3 ended way too soon!  

I guess we’ll just have to wait ‘til next time.  But, you guys had better go again soon!

That goes for L and A, too!   We're ready any time...just sayin'!

A Royal Celebration...At The Compound!

Officials are pleased to announce that The Compound has been selected as one of the Premiere venues for various “state side” celebrations honoring the Royal Wedding of Prince William of Wales and Catherine Middleton.  (Prince William Arthur Philip Louis, to be precise).  The married couple, Prince William and Princess Catherine are also known officially as The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge.

It’s only logical that The Compound was selected for this much anticipated event; as you may remember, we DO have the Royal Bell believed to have once belonged to the British Monarchy years and years ago.  You know, the one the Queen Mum used to ring when she demanded Tea and Crumpets!  Yes, THAT Bell!

A large crowd of "Royal Watchers" is likely to attend today's  special event.  Everyone is expected to dress appropriately for the occasion.  For the ladies a nice dress and a fancy hat, (tiaras are optional).  For the gentlemen a morning suit and a top hat are required.  White gloves add a nice touch of class as well.

The Celebration and Festivities here at The Compound are expected to start early and continue well into the evening.  The staff has prepared lots of food and other treats "Fit For A King" with a surprisingly, and overwhelmingly “English” theme.  

Appetizers will be served to all of the guests early in the afternoon.  A variety of Tea Sandwich Samplers will be offered along with a cup of BCBC Soup.  A pineapple and blackberry fruit medley will also be available.

A "Spot of Tea and Crumpets" will be served to tide us over late in the afternoon.

Later in the evening, Pub Style Fare will be offered to the 'surviving' guests.  A few of the British favorites, including Beef Wellington, Bangers and Mash, along with a Waldorf Salad and a Veggie Tray will be served.  I'm sure the guests will also be enjoying a 'Pint' or two!  The evening will conclude with a 'Champagne Toast' to the Royal Couple and will be the highlight of the daylong Celebration!

Also, there have been rumors floating about that the Royal Couple may be making a surprise visit to the Compound during their extended honeymoon.  Officials cannot confirm nor deny such rumors, and they're reluctant to speculate on the matter.

However, officials here at The Compound have said that someone with a “British” accent called recently and booked the Guest Cottage for an entire week, early in May.   Hmmm?!

Oh…by the way, The Royal Bell will be on display for the entire day of celebration here at The Compound, and a lucky few will actually have the “honor” of ringing the Bell!
 

Wow…that will be really exciting!

Pip pip - Cheerio'!

P.S.  Happy B-Day to G-1

Straight Lines, Buddy! ...Straight Lines!

Spring has sprung, the grass is ris, and ‘tis the season, ...for mowing, that is!  It certainly is that time of year again. 

It’s been a very long winter and now that the lawn mowing season is here, it’s time to get the lawnmower, the edger, and the trimmer out of the shed along with the other tools, and dust them off, gas 'em up and get 'em ready to go.

Yard Care Basics

Officials are pleased to announce that The Yard Care Seminar will take place at The Compound,  this Thursday and Friday.  The following week, yard care should be, and will be, weather permitting, in full swing here at The Compound. 

Pushing a lawnmower around the yard, some will say, is much like riding a bicycle; you never really forget how.

I think it never hurts, and it’s probably a good idea to have a refresher course every once in a while, a little yard care seminar for all of our yard care personnel.  I don’t want to give the impression that I’m overly particular, but I do like things done just so.  I don’t really care how the yard work is done, as long as it’s done my way!

A little bit of history… I always did the mowing when our kids were young, (I could have been a yard care professional, ...but I think Brando said it best, "I could have been a contender" – "I could have been somebody", well, that’s another story), but anyway, the kids all helped in the yard, and had specific tasks or jobs that they were in charge of.  There comes a time when the kids actually want to mow the lawn; it makes them feel big and important.  It's kind of like a rite of passage, a time honored tradition, the passing of the torch, handed down from father to son, or from father to daughter, and finally, from father to youngest son.  

But you don’t just hand over the reins for this all important task of lawn mowing without a little training.   My “Lawn Mowing Training” to be exact.  Just think, if my kids had to go through this kind of training just to mow the lawn, can you imagine how they ever got through my “Driver Training” to get their drivers licenses?  You know, watching is just watching and one can learn from watching, but the real learning comes from experience.   

When teaching someone the fine art of mowing, you’ve got to start with the basics.  General maintenance issues like, how to check the oil and fill the tank with gas. Then they need to learn about the control levers, etc., and learn how to set the proper mowing levels for the mower.  Then they must learn how to start the lawnmower and let it warm up properly, and then how to adjust the throttle, etc.  Finally, they must learn how to empty the bag properly, etc., etc., etc.   Obviously, there is a lot to learn about mowing and it can take years to master the art.

Now that the basics have been covered, it’s time to learn some technique.  Yes, Technique. There is a right way and a wrong way to mow the grass. Knowing where to start mowing and why, and which direction to mow in is very important.  You need to know how much to overlap each pass of the lawnmower, not too much and not too little, and you certainly don’t want to leave a small strip of grass by not overlapping at all.  The dreaded “Mohawk” is not at all acceptable for proper lawn care.

But the most important rule to learn and perfect is straight lines. Yes, straight lines.  You can’t just mow in a random pattern, back and forth, all willy-nilly like.  Circles don’t work out either. Straight lines, while seemingly easy and very basic, are the hardest and can be the most difficult skill to master; especially on long expansive stretches of lawn.  A crooked line stands out like a sore thumb, or maybe even an ugly red-headed step-child.  If and only where necessary, lines may follow the gentle curve of the lane, or the contour of the land, but must still remain uniform in appearance.  All other mowing lines and patterns must be straight.

When training each one of our kids, I would let them push the lawnmower all by themselves, and I would stand on the sidelines and watch them struggle with the line thing.  Trying to give some help and guidance, I would yell out a few words of encouragement …overlap just a little more or keep trying to go straight, you’ll get it!

 

Oftentimes, I would stand at the other end of the yard and put my foot at the edge where the lawnmower wheel should be when they reach the end of that particular lawnmower pass and yell out …Aim for My Toe.  Just Aim for My Toe!  Aim that wheel right for my toe!  That seemed to be a real help for them!  Something to aim for!  (Maybe they were really aiming for me, and secretly trying to mow me down!)

The secret to a well-cared for yard is straight lines that appear to mysteriously travel through any obstacle, such as a large planting area, clumps of oak brush, or various trees and tree circles that dot the landscape, and have the lines magically line up on the other side of the obstacle.  It just looks way more nicerer.  

For an added touch of brilliance, (and if you want to look like a real pro), you can do the double-mow, the criss-cross mow.  You mow the yard a second time at a 90 degree angle.  It may seem like lawn mowing overkill, but when done properly, the look is without equal!

More Yard Care Thingies

…So back to the refresher course/seminar we have every spring here at The Compound.  Along with the latest yard care updates, equipment and maintenance issues, and in addition to a few professional tips on pruning, raking, trimming, edging, sweeping, and using the blower; the overwhelming message and theme of the seminar is to remember…Straight lines!  

  

On a rare occasion, you may even hear me yell out from a distance …Aim for My Toe, Buddy!  
Old habits die hard! I suppose… 

But you can always count on hearing those all-important words of encouragement throughout the season…Straight lines, Buddy …Straight Lines!

I don’t do a lot of the mowing around here lately, but I like to think I’m still in charge.  And that brings up another important point.  When, if ever, does the student become the master?

I guess it depends on who you ask!

Hmmm…just sayin’

WOW! ...I am SO Lucky!

Lovely...Isn't It!

Wow, I can’t believe it.  Honestly, I cannot believe it. More snow …yes MORE SNOW!  I must be the luckiest guy in the world.  I love snow.  I can’t get enough snow.  It's like I'm living a dream!  If I were a betting kind of guy, I would bet that I am getting more than my fair share of snow.  But how can I complain?  Did I mention that I love snow?

I love to play in the snow.  I love to work in the snow!  I love to plow the driveway, it is so much fun!  I love to shovel the snow.  I love to shovel the porch and the steps in front.  I love to shovel the long and meandering sidewalks that surround the house.  It is so refreshing and stimulating; if not downright exhilarating.  It makes me feel good.  I wish I could do it all the time! 

Snow is probably my most favorite thing in the whole wide world, (next to good grubbin’, of course!)  
Did I mention that I love snow? 

As much as I like and enjoy all of the snow here, snow has become sort of a fun game to play.  I really like to go out and guess which mound of snow my truck is buried under. I love to discover how much snow the trees can bear before their huge limbs and branches are snapped like twigs.  That is really cool to see when that happens.  I love to see how much snow can pile up on the satellite dish before the satellite signal is completely obliterated resulting in the dreaded loss of all TV and entertainment reception.

You know, it’s supposed to be spring here at The Compound, and I think spring is highly overrated anyway, but lucky for me; it keeps snowing and I love it!  Every morning when I get up I hope that it will snow, and keep snowing all day.  Every night when I go to bed, I hope that it will snow all night long.  Well, it seems as though I’m getting my wish.  It has been snowing pretty much all day and all night for four days now. FOUR DAYS!  Unbelievable; I am so lucky.  It makes me wonder how much longer my luck and good fortune will last.  I can only hope.  Without hope, what is there?  Well, I guess I’ll see what today brings.

Maybe I should go to Vegas and put it all on Lucky 7!  Well, maybe not.  I’ve heard that Vegas is pretty far away from The Compound. 

If I went away, how would I know if it’s still snowing?  I guess I’ll just stay and hope for MORE SNOW!   …just sayin’

All's Well That Ends Well!

Given the fact that Sunday’s late season and untimely snowfall may have delayed or postponed some of the scheduled weekend events here, the Committee, along with the talented and quick thinking staff at The Compound, switched gears and jumped into action, made a few phone calls and were able to juggle some of the events that had been tentatively scheduled, but were on hold for one reason or another.

Sunday’s surprise storm and heavy snowfall made it possible to reschedule and host The World Cup Competition, even with such short notice.

The World Cup of Snow Shoveling, the final competition of the regular winter season, which is sponsored by The United States Snow Shoveling Association, (USSSA) was held at The Compound on Sunday afternoon.  Fortunately and without much notice, all of the competitors were in town and showed up and competed for the top prize. 

Well Done, Competitors!

The near record snowfall was extremely wet, heavy and plentiful and allowed for some excellent shoveling contests with vast amounts of snow being removed in world class time.

The USSSA Officials commented that all who showed up to compete were true Champions in every sense of the word, and all competitors received high marks for skill, style and technique, and the competition was very exciting for spectators and passersby to watch.  Some of the competitors were kind enough to allow paparazzi to get a few photos!

Officials reviewed play by play video to help determine the winners of the contest.  Awards were handed out shortly after the competition in a brief Awards Ceremony.  The competitors, while pleased with the results, said it has been a long and grueling season and they are ready to take a break!

After the Awards Ceremony, light snacks and beverages were served to both contestants at the Bar.

Is Anyone Listening?

This is NOT what I had in mind for today!

Obviously, Mother Nature didn’t read my story, Spwing Has Spwung!, nor did she get the memo about it from anybody else.  

It has become painfully clear to me that Mother Nature has absolutely no regard for the calendar, nor any of the seasons associated with it; and she certainly does not care that Spring actually arrived here at The Compound on Sunday, March 20, exactly two weeks ago from today, and everything was going along just fine. 

In light of today’s snowy event, The Annual Spring Cleaning Workout and Training Camp has been delayed, and the Yard Care Seminar scheduled for today has been postponed until further notice.

Angry Trees

It makes me wonder what kind of mean tricks Mother Nature has up her sleeve, and what sort of evil prank can we expect next? 

It seems that Mother Nature apparently gets her way, no matter what I have to say or think. 

Hmmm… I’m not too happy about THAT today.  ...Just sayin’

An Overnight Success...At The Compound!

G-3 has been making regular stops here at The Compound along with Mommy and Daddy for nearly a year now.   Each visit, of course, just gets better and better and more fun.  G-3 has been and continues to be on a quest of discovery and learning, and where better to learn, (and learn from), discover and gain vast amounts of knowledge than here at The Compound? ...My point, exactly.

We’ve had lots of opportunities to spend time with G-3 here before.  We’ve played host to G-3 many times when Mom had meetings or appointments, or when Mom and Dad needed a night out on the town.  We’ve held lots of Day Care Seminars here with G-3, all of which were highly successful.  However, most, if not all of these visits were limited to just a few hours at a time.

Last Saturday started off fairly normal for a Saturday, but this particular Saturday was going to be different.  Way different.   As you may have heard, we always have Saturday Sammies and everyone is always welcome to join us for lunch.  On this Saturday K and D arrived as usual, and G-3 along with parents R and A decided to join us as well. 

 

Saturday’s menu was fabulous once again.  Shrimp Po’ Boys made with Oven Roasted Garlic Shrimp, served on Home Made French Bread Vienna Rolls, with special sauce and Havarti Cheese, garnished with avocado, tomato, red onion, and shredded lettuce.  We also enjoyed Deviled eggs, BCBC Soup, (Bleu Cheese, Beer & Cauliflower), a Veggie Platter with Parmesan Dip, Kettle Chips and Sauce King Dips. 

 

But this story isn’t necessarily about the food served for Saturday Sammies here at The Compound. This story is about what happened next.  Normally, at the conclusion of Saturday Sammies and the other activities of the day, everyone is full and satisfied and usually finds a soft place to cozy up and rest or watch a movie or just hang out.  Later on they head for home and everything here at The Compound gets back to normal.

K and D headed out first.  I think they had some things to do.  But R and A, and G-3 didn’t leave, they stayed and kept visiting with us.  After a short discussion between Grandma and R and A, it was determined to be the right time for the Big Experiment.  Yes, the Sleepover Experiment.  The first big, sleep over!  The first all-nighter for G-3!

Holy Crap!  We knew this day would come; but oh so soon?  Are we ready for this?  The big question of course, is G-3 ready for this?  Really, really ready for this?  Are R and A ready for this?  How do we know?  How do they know?  I guess we'll never really know until we try, and we won’t know until it’s over! 

The Sleepover Buddies

Bedtime finally arrived and G-3 went down for the evening, played quietly in the crib with many of the favorite stuffed animal friends and fell asleep without incident.

 

The evening progressed with R and A, and we all enjoyed many hours of fun, music and entertainment.  Fortunately, for all of us, the friendly staff at The Compound kept the Bar open extra late and no one got too parcheded!

As you know, The Compound is a magical, mystical kind of place where only good things are allowed to happen, and the Saturday Sleepover Experiment was no exception.  

Under normal circumstances G-3 wakes up once or twice a night and wants grub.  Sunday morning arrived on schedule and G-3 had slept the whole night through, without waking up hungry or stirring at all.  G-3 woke up, played quietly with the sleepover buddies once again, and a short time later got out of the crib, started walking alone for the very first time, and began speaking in full and complete sentences!  Well almost! …(Jotter downer prerogative - slight embellishment!)  But the Big Experiment proved to be quite successful.  G-3 enjoyed morning snacks a few minutes later.

One final and interesting note.  R and A booked the Guest Cottage and stayed the entire night as well.  (I think they were really staying the night to see if Grandma and Grandpa could actually cut the mustard and handle the stress and excitement of the first all-nighter with G-3.  And just in case things didn’t work out with the Big Sleepover Experiment, they could step in and take over.)  Results on how GJ (Grandma Jill) and GG (Grandpa Gary) did with the experiment/test are still pending, but are expected in a few days.

 

Furthermore, I think R and A had ulterior motives, and I’ll bet they’ve already made plans for their first 3 day get-a-way vacation in quite a while.  Hmm…I wonder where G-3 will be spending that weekend?

The Big Experiment At The Compound Becomes An Overnight Success!

…just sayin’  

Spwing Has Spwung!

Spwing!

As you know, The Compound is a magical, mystical kind of place where only good things are allowed to happen.  

It’s that time of year again, and as usual the snow melted just in time, and Spring has arrived here at The Compound, as planned and right on schedule.

According to the calendar, today is the first day of Spring, and we are ready!  Just last week we had a foot and a half of that old white stuff, and we’re ready for some new green stuff!

   

The trees are just beginning to get buds and the grass is starting to grow.  All of the birds have returned and are singing their songs, and we're anxious to get outdoors again and enjoy the nature that surrounds us.

Next week we’ll be hosting the kickoff for The Annual Spring Cleanup Work-Out and Training Camp.  
The Training Camp is scheduled to last for 3-4 weeks.  Call now to sign up for the tryouts.

Snow and cold blustery weather will no longer be allowed at The Compound.

Note:  The Title of this story was inspired by G-2! ...Just sayin'!

Make It Stop, Make It Stop!

Way Too Much of the Damned Stuff!

Make it stop, make it stop!  Please make it stop!  We like snow, right?  How much is enough?  How much is too much?  How do we know?  

Well, I’m here to tell you, I think we have enough.  Way enough.  In fact, way too much for me, at least here at The Compound.  I'm tired of it!  I’m sick of it!   Last night we were blessed with or (cursed with) a foot and a half of the damn stuff. 

Then, I'm reminded that we need the WATER!  O.K. Fine...

Where's My Truck?

A Worm's Eye View!

On the bright side of this sh*tty, snowy situation, it was a great opportunity for the USSSA team to get a good workout.  




We expected a big snowfall, and all of the regular team members and training partners showed up for the training session.  It turned out to be a wonderful practice session, perhaps the most lengthy and grueling workout of the season, just before  the upcoming final competition, The World Cup of Snow Shoveling, which of course, will be held at The Compound shortly after the final snowfall of the season.  

Officials at The Compound will announce the date of the World Cup competition as soon as possible!

Don't Even Think About It!

My first encounter with a Zebra wasn’t on some far away, exotic African Safari, nor was it during a visit to the City Zoo.  My very first experience with a Zebra actually took place at a small, local office supply store.

I was preparing to do some design work for a client, which included quite a bit of drafting; lots of small technical details and such.  I’ve used regular pencils for drafting before, but they don’t stay sharp enough, long enough.  And if, heaven forbid, you have to erase something, it usually smudges and makes quite a mess.  Instead, I prefer to use a mechanical pencil for tedious tasks such as drafting; it’s just the right tool for the job, and I needed a new one.

I drove over to this little hole in the wall place, a Mom and Pop kind of office supply store; where they carry lots of specialty office supplies.  It just so happens to be the place that I get my Sparco yellow legal pads, (YES, those legal pads!); so this wasn’t my fist trip to the store.  I went directly to the pencil-drawing-drafting stuff  aisle and began trying out some of the pencils that were on the shelf.  Lots of them…well most of them were skinny, slippery little things with small shafts or barrels that just seemed awkward to hold, and my fingers would slip down towards the tip.  That’s not good.  I tried several others.  The same results as before.

I kept searching and I finally found something that caught my eye.  It was a Zebra.  In fact, it was the entire Zebra Family.  They were perched high on the top shelf near the back.  They seemed different, and I liked that.  The first one that I grabbed was a silver and black mechanical pencil, the M-301.  It was pretty nice; it had a black plastic grip at the bottom, but still slender and a little slippery to hold onto.  I looked further and found another one.  I tried it, but what I thought was a pencil, turned out to be a pen, the F-301.  It was nice, for a pen.  It too was black and silver, and it had a small rubber grip, but still quite slim, too slim for my liking; and I was really looking for a mechanical pencil. 

I continued my search, and there it was.  It seemed as if I’d just struck pay dirt!  Hit the Mother lode!  The Zebra 402. The M-402 to be precise.  It had a fuller shaped barrel, just right for a manly-man sized hand. It had a no-slip grip; a nice rubber grip at the bottom to keep your fingers from sliding down. I tried it out.  It was comfortable to hold onto and my fingers didn’t slip down to the tip! Sweet!  I went to grab another 402, and to my surprise, it was a pen, the F-402.  It was the twin brother, to the pencil.  A Pen and Pencil; a matched set.  Perfect!…I like Perfect!   

It was way more than I was looking for, and far beyond my wildest expectations, and I had to have ‘em.  I bought them both and returned home.  That was a few years ago, and since then I’ve bought a couple more of them, and some refills too, just to have on hand.

I, of course, ultimately finished the design project that I was working on at the time, and I still use the 402 mechanical pencil whenever I have to do that sort of work.  I keep it in the “Command Center” drawer with my other drafting stuff, but I use the pen all the time.

After years and years of continued use, I have come to realize that the Zebra F-402 is perhaps the finest all-purpose jottin’ down instrument in the world.  Oh, I’m sure there will be nay-sayers that may tend to disagree with me, but that’s because they just don’t know anything about pens …yet!  
I’m sure they’ll figure it out, sooner or later.

The kids (by kids, I mean all the grown up kids that come around a lot; and you know who you are), they come over all the time and want to borrow the 402.  They're always looking at the 402 in my pocket, often times trying to reach out and touch it or grab it from me.  Sometimes I’ll let them try it out, but when I see them trying to secretly slip it into their pocket, …(Oh, they PROBABLY just want to see how it looks in THEIR pocket, ...and surely not intending to thug it)…but, then I have to say - “Uh-uh” … “No.”  “Don’t Do It!”  …“DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!”   “Set IT down, back away from the 402 and nobody gets hurt!” 

This has happened a few times before, and usually after a short standoff, the 402 is released without incident. Later, thinking to myself, “Whew, that was another close one!”

The Y-Pad and the 402's

I never know when I’ll have to jot down something; sign some important documents or send an urgent memorandum.  It will be a rare occasion indeed, if I am ever to be separated from my 402.

There are two things in life that no one should ever be without.  A PK (pocket knife) and a 402. I always have the 402 in my shirt pocket, and yes, the PK, is always in my pants pocket, right where it belongs, and always at the ready!

After all, I was a Boy Scout.  An Eagle Boy Scout! …just sayin’!

NOTE:  As it turns out, I was recently informed by an undercover agent that at least one, maybe two of the extra Zebras were released from their holding cage, unbeknownst to me.  
Hmm…I wonder?… 

Hmm…The Plot Thickens!  Sounds like I’ve got a little detective work of my own to do! 

LUCY!…You got some ’splainin’ to do!

Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop!  

A New Taste Treat!

As you can imagine, The Committee is always looking for new and exciting ways to expand and improve the cuisine here at The Compound, along with offering some other culinary delights from time to time.  Well, I think we’re on to something great!

Monkey Meat…It’s Not Just for Special Occasions Anymore!   Now, more affordable than ever, and available at The Compound.  This rare delicacy is destined to become one of the fast favorites around here.  I’m sure the Guests and Visitors will be asking for it all the time. 

There’s nothing quite like grillin’ up a chunk o’monkey on the Barbecue and serving it to your very most discriminating guests and surprising them with a new taste sensation and watching them smile with delight.

They’ll say it tastes a lot like pork! ...Maybe chicken!

Please, Please, Don't Eat Me!

It makes a great Sammie.  Slice it thinly and serve on a toasted home made Vienna roll, with red onion, shredded cabbage, Havarti  and Sauce King flavors - Smokey Barbecue Sauce, along with a little Chili Garlic Aioli!

Monkey breast, monkey thigh, monkey leg, monkey loin and monkey butt…some of the best parts, just to name a few!  Yumm-EEE.  It don’t get no better!

Monkey Meat…Just thinkin’ about it makes me hungry!

However, be extra careful when serving; it has a tendency to want to jump off the plate! 

Note:  No monkeys were harmed during the photo shoot or the jotting down of this story.

The Disclaimer may or may not apply here!

Signs of the Times

The Compound, as you know, is famous for Saturday Sammies and Sunday Brunches.  But that's not all!

Over the past couple of years we have been hosting lots of events for family, friends and others, such as Birthday Parties, Christmas and Holiday Parties, Weddings and Receptions, Engagement Parties, The Food and Wine Festival, Spring Break & Ski Trip Getaways, St. Patrick's Day, Kentucky Derby Day, Cinco de Mayo, The Kickoff to Summer Barbecue Party, The Happy Birthday America Party, The Backyard Festival and Fireworks Display, The "Finally, Back To School" Party, and other seasonal events, just to name a few; not to mention, being named the Official Training Site and Venue for the USSSA and various other spring, summer, fall and winter sporting competitions.

Our ever expanding list of amenities here at The Compound is impressive and has been well received by the guests and visitors, including The Guest Cottage that we opened last year.  The Guest Cottage, with it’s growing popularity has become a favorite destination for quite a few visitors from all across the land who want to just get away for a night or a weekend to relax and unwind and forget about their miserable, dull, boring and pathetic lives; and add a little zest and excitement, and experience some of the finer things in life.  You know…Live A Little!  

Likewise, we have a lot of seasoned travelers that visit us throughout the year, who know how to party, love good times and lots of excitement, and they’ll usually book the Guest Cottage for an entire week, and sometimes even longer.

After experiencing such phenomenal and overwhelming success with all of the Parties, Celebrations and Events hosted over the past several years here at The Compound; and while rewarding, it is not without it’s challenges.  We have lots of guests and visitors coming and going, virtually at all hours of the day and night.  As usual, the staff is always trying to accommodate their every need; but it has become very hectic and chaotic at times to try to manage or control every situation. 

It has come to our attention, that perhaps we need to schedule the events and times a little more closely.  After serious thought and consideration, the Committee and Officials agree, and have decided to implement a few changes here, so that guests and visitors will know what they can expect, while enjoying their stay at The Compound.

For the safety and well-being of our guests, visitors and staff, we have posted a couple of reminders in prominent locations around here to let our guests know what’s going on.   We don’t expect to have any trouble or problems here; but just in case we have an overzealous or unruly crowd, we may have to impose some new restrictions. 

In extreme situations, heaven forbid; we may even be forced to turn off the "OPEN" sign!

…Signs of the Times, I suppose.  …Just sayin’!