I have more time now to doodle.
["with hair the colour of green cheese"]
[doodle by g.harrison]
***
Please click here to view doodle 10
Showing posts with label coffee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label coffee. Show all posts
Monday, August 13, 2012
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Zoom w a View: Warm rings in winter
As I walked toward the Red Roaster in Wortley Village yesterday (a hot cup of dark roast had my name on it, as did a snug corner with a view of the street) I spied a yellow ring.
It had snow round about it and inside its center.
A thought sprang to mind, i.e., a maple-iced donut would go well with my coffee.
I then put the camera back inside my pocket and stepped on the gas.
[Photos by G.Harrison]
***
Please click here for more Zoom w a View.
.
It had snow round about it and inside its center.
A thought sprang to mind, i.e., a maple-iced donut would go well with my coffee.
I then put the camera back inside my pocket and stepped on the gas.
[Photos by G.Harrison]
***
Please click here for more Zoom w a View.
.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Morning Vignettes: This will cost you peanuts
[These four vignettes appeared separately several weeks ago.
They are back as one post, by popular demand]
Morning Vignettes PT 1 at The Little Red Roaster
I slept like a rock last night (maybe had something to do with my 40 mile ride on the exercise bike while reading ‘song for the blue ocean’ before going to bed) and woke up bleary eyed.
As I washed the blear out of my eyes my wife asked if I wanted to go the The Roaster for coffee.
“Sure,” I croaked.
The morning air must have been extra crispy because by the time we reached the coffee shop I felt somewhat alive, even energetic.
I saw two men with familiar faces and heard them talking about not having small bills to break a twenty as I squeezed into a nearby chair.
I reached for my wallet and said, “I think I can help.”
I pulled out two old fivers and a brand new ten dollar bill.
As I initiated the trade I said, “The ten just came off the clothesline this morning.”
["Thanksh for the coffee, Babe."]
One smiled, took the money, fingered the ten, handed me the twenty and said, “Feels and smells fresh.”
I knew I had a growing audience at the time so replied, “Right out of the laundry room.”
I sat down a satisfied man.
Coffee. My wife paid. Easy human contact. I established an old standard counterfeiting scenario.
And scored perfect timing with the last line as I slipped my behind into a comfy chair.
I shoulda been in movies.
[End of Scene 1.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 2 at The Little Red Roaster
While my wife and I chatted over coffee and bagel this morning at The Roaster, I noticed a current copy of ‘the beat’ magazine atop a folded newspaper next to my elbow.
I picked it up, thumbed through pages starting at the back, and looked for ‘pegg’s world.’
Found it. This month’s story by Robert Pegg. In praise of Mr. Peanut. Photo of Mr. Peanut included.
[“Mr. Peanut rocks”]
I read the first paragraph or two, then skipped to the last. The story sounded familiar, in a good way.
And it was. It contained material from a recent blog post I’d read a few days ago at ‘sonny drysdale presents.’ All excellent, entertaining and with a great conclusion. (See 'Local and Area Links', side margin)
And that’s what we look for in good writing, right? A snappy intro, a gripping middle and a great conclusion. (Someday I may even try that stuff myself).
Sonny writes about how he was able to win a bet with his son because of his superior knowledge re Mr. Peanut.
In spite of the great conclusion, it left me troubled.
Superior knowledge I admire.
But his own kid?
[End of Scene 2.]
***
INTERMISSION
Bird Watching: "Are those squirrels back in action?"
Several times per day, no matter what I’m doing (even if it’s really, really important stuff - like writing vignettes), I’ll take a wee break and check out my bird feeders.
A few moments ago I noticed that the snow atop bother feeders was disturbed.
“Those darn squirrels are jumping out of the trees again,” I said aloud. “Where’s my shotgun?”
[Author’s note: I don’t own a shotgun. In serious situations like this, however, I sure wish I had one. A 16-gauge would be nice!]
I reached for my camera and went out back to study the damage and look for tracks.
Well, the only tracks I found belonged to small birds. They must land atop the feeders once in awhile. Makes sense to me.
There were no squirrels tracks on the ground, as well.
Though I’d besmerched the name of squirrels everywhere and appreciated the break from writing vignettes, I didn’t apologize.
[Please click here to view related photos.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 3 at The Little Red Roaster
Men are from Mars. Granted.
Women are from Venus. Granted.
(I would even allow that women are from farther away than that).
Case in point -
While my wife and I were comfortably sipping coffee at The Roaster this morning, a woman entered who looked an awful lot like someone I’d met - and mentioned to my wife - a few weeks earlier.
I had been enjoying coffee at Williams Cafe with another retired teacher and friend when a woman sat down at the same large table - with a girl friend, but too close to me for my comfort - and almost immediately entered my world with comments related to the ongoing conversation I was having with my aforementioned friend.
Worse still, when her meal order arrived, she offered me part of her date square.
Now, I love date squares but said, "Thanks - but no," and without being rude (in my opinion), I continued to engage only with my friend.
Later, the same day, when I shared the above with my wife, I described the woman as “kinda annoying, too gregarious for my liking, interruptive.”
But when I saw the woman this morning I said to my wife, “I think that’s the lady who was being so smarmy a few weeks back.”
Immediately my wife recoiled, her nose wrinkled.
“Smarmy?” she said. “That’s a terrible thing to say.”
“What’s wrong?” I said.
“She was being kind of... ,” I began again, then paused, drawing a blank.
My wife filled in the blank with the following, which may explain why I started this scene with reference to planets far away:
“When I think of smarmy I think of someone revolting, stinking, covered in fish guts.”
[“Fish guts? How did she come up with that?”]
WTHeck, I thought.
“Where have you been in life where you ever saw such a thing?” I said. “Smarmy isn’t that bad. It’s more like being too familiar, even clingy.”
“I agree with clingy,” she said. “Why didn’t you just say clingy, because smarmy is terrible.”
WTHeck, I thought. I not only don’t know where she picked up the fish guts imagery, I don’t know where I am in this conversation.
For 41 years I’ve known this woman.
Well, I thought I did.
[End of Scene 3.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 4 at The Little Red Roaster
Just before my wife and I left The Roaster this morning (and after miles of interesting conversation), I got up from my chair to steal a refill of dark roast.
As I walked behind the counter I said to Karen, a girl on staff, “Don’t worry about me. I’m just stealing coffee.”
And so began my second conversation of the morning that included the word ‘smarmy.’
While filling up my large mug, and just before throwing loose change into the tip jar, I turned toward Karen and asked, “Have you heard of the word ‘smarmy?’”
“Sure,” she said.
“What does it mean to you,” I asked.
Her nose wrinkled almost right away and I thought she was going to refer to fish guts, but she mentioned a few other ideas.
We agreed upon ‘too familiar’ and a ‘little too close for comfort,’ and she finished with ‘like a weasel.’
“Yes, weasel,” I said, right away.
I have used ‘weasel’ for many years and there were times when it certainly meant smarmy.
Most of the times in the past, however, particularly when talking with elementary students, I tried to convey a positive tone with the word weasel, as in, sure, you can borrow my tape dispenser, but bring it right back, you little weasel.
[“Not all weasels are bad guys”]
I’m pretty sure most of the kids took it the way it was intended.
Ten per cent of the time one would reply, I’m not the weasel. You’re the weasel.
And I never flinched. I realized I had a winner.
Sorry, I digress.
Because Karen and I seemed to be on the same page with the meaning of smarmy, I thought I’d give another idea a test drive.
I said, “Would you say that some people - people who come across as too familiar with you - have got a touch of the smarm?”
“Oh, definitely,” she said.
Refill in hand, I returned to my seat for my coat, glad that Karen and I had had that little chat.
Good coffee. Stirring conversation. Easy, breezy human contact. Free refill. Right with the world and some strange words.
Not a bad morning.
***
They are back as one post, by popular demand]
Morning Vignettes PT 1 at The Little Red Roaster
I slept like a rock last night (maybe had something to do with my 40 mile ride on the exercise bike while reading ‘song for the blue ocean’ before going to bed) and woke up bleary eyed.
As I washed the blear out of my eyes my wife asked if I wanted to go the The Roaster for coffee.
“Sure,” I croaked.
The morning air must have been extra crispy because by the time we reached the coffee shop I felt somewhat alive, even energetic.
I saw two men with familiar faces and heard them talking about not having small bills to break a twenty as I squeezed into a nearby chair.
I reached for my wallet and said, “I think I can help.”
I pulled out two old fivers and a brand new ten dollar bill.
As I initiated the trade I said, “The ten just came off the clothesline this morning.”
["Thanksh for the coffee, Babe."]
One smiled, took the money, fingered the ten, handed me the twenty and said, “Feels and smells fresh.”
I knew I had a growing audience at the time so replied, “Right out of the laundry room.”
I sat down a satisfied man.
Coffee. My wife paid. Easy human contact. I established an old standard counterfeiting scenario.
And scored perfect timing with the last line as I slipped my behind into a comfy chair.
I shoulda been in movies.
[End of Scene 1.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 2 at The Little Red Roaster
While my wife and I chatted over coffee and bagel this morning at The Roaster, I noticed a current copy of ‘the beat’ magazine atop a folded newspaper next to my elbow.
I picked it up, thumbed through pages starting at the back, and looked for ‘pegg’s world.’
Found it. This month’s story by Robert Pegg. In praise of Mr. Peanut. Photo of Mr. Peanut included.
[“Mr. Peanut rocks”]
I read the first paragraph or two, then skipped to the last. The story sounded familiar, in a good way.
And it was. It contained material from a recent blog post I’d read a few days ago at ‘sonny drysdale presents.’ All excellent, entertaining and with a great conclusion. (See 'Local and Area Links', side margin)
And that’s what we look for in good writing, right? A snappy intro, a gripping middle and a great conclusion. (Someday I may even try that stuff myself).
Sonny writes about how he was able to win a bet with his son because of his superior knowledge re Mr. Peanut.
In spite of the great conclusion, it left me troubled.
Superior knowledge I admire.
But his own kid?
[End of Scene 2.]
***
INTERMISSION
Bird Watching: "Are those squirrels back in action?"
Several times per day, no matter what I’m doing (even if it’s really, really important stuff - like writing vignettes), I’ll take a wee break and check out my bird feeders.
A few moments ago I noticed that the snow atop bother feeders was disturbed.
“Those darn squirrels are jumping out of the trees again,” I said aloud. “Where’s my shotgun?”
[Author’s note: I don’t own a shotgun. In serious situations like this, however, I sure wish I had one. A 16-gauge would be nice!]
I reached for my camera and went out back to study the damage and look for tracks.
Well, the only tracks I found belonged to small birds. They must land atop the feeders once in awhile. Makes sense to me.
There were no squirrels tracks on the ground, as well.
Though I’d besmerched the name of squirrels everywhere and appreciated the break from writing vignettes, I didn’t apologize.
[Please click here to view related photos.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 3 at The Little Red Roaster
Men are from Mars. Granted.
Women are from Venus. Granted.
(I would even allow that women are from farther away than that).
Case in point -
While my wife and I were comfortably sipping coffee at The Roaster this morning, a woman entered who looked an awful lot like someone I’d met - and mentioned to my wife - a few weeks earlier.
I had been enjoying coffee at Williams Cafe with another retired teacher and friend when a woman sat down at the same large table - with a girl friend, but too close to me for my comfort - and almost immediately entered my world with comments related to the ongoing conversation I was having with my aforementioned friend.
Worse still, when her meal order arrived, she offered me part of her date square.
Now, I love date squares but said, "Thanks - but no," and without being rude (in my opinion), I continued to engage only with my friend.
Later, the same day, when I shared the above with my wife, I described the woman as “kinda annoying, too gregarious for my liking, interruptive.”
But when I saw the woman this morning I said to my wife, “I think that’s the lady who was being so smarmy a few weeks back.”
Immediately my wife recoiled, her nose wrinkled.
“Smarmy?” she said. “That’s a terrible thing to say.”
“What’s wrong?” I said.
“She was being kind of... ,” I began again, then paused, drawing a blank.
My wife filled in the blank with the following, which may explain why I started this scene with reference to planets far away:
“When I think of smarmy I think of someone revolting, stinking, covered in fish guts.”
[“Fish guts? How did she come up with that?”]
WTHeck, I thought.
“Where have you been in life where you ever saw such a thing?” I said. “Smarmy isn’t that bad. It’s more like being too familiar, even clingy.”
“I agree with clingy,” she said. “Why didn’t you just say clingy, because smarmy is terrible.”
WTHeck, I thought. I not only don’t know where she picked up the fish guts imagery, I don’t know where I am in this conversation.
For 41 years I’ve known this woman.
Well, I thought I did.
[End of Scene 3.]
***
Morning Vignettes PT 4 at The Little Red Roaster
Just before my wife and I left The Roaster this morning (and after miles of interesting conversation), I got up from my chair to steal a refill of dark roast.
As I walked behind the counter I said to Karen, a girl on staff, “Don’t worry about me. I’m just stealing coffee.”
And so began my second conversation of the morning that included the word ‘smarmy.’
While filling up my large mug, and just before throwing loose change into the tip jar, I turned toward Karen and asked, “Have you heard of the word ‘smarmy?’”
“Sure,” she said.
“What does it mean to you,” I asked.
Her nose wrinkled almost right away and I thought she was going to refer to fish guts, but she mentioned a few other ideas.
We agreed upon ‘too familiar’ and a ‘little too close for comfort,’ and she finished with ‘like a weasel.’
“Yes, weasel,” I said, right away.
I have used ‘weasel’ for many years and there were times when it certainly meant smarmy.
Most of the times in the past, however, particularly when talking with elementary students, I tried to convey a positive tone with the word weasel, as in, sure, you can borrow my tape dispenser, but bring it right back, you little weasel.
[“Not all weasels are bad guys”]
I’m pretty sure most of the kids took it the way it was intended.
Ten per cent of the time one would reply, I’m not the weasel. You’re the weasel.
And I never flinched. I realized I had a winner.
Sorry, I digress.
Because Karen and I seemed to be on the same page with the meaning of smarmy, I thought I’d give another idea a test drive.
I said, “Would you say that some people - people who come across as too familiar with you - have got a touch of the smarm?”
“Oh, definitely,” she said.
Refill in hand, I returned to my seat for my coat, glad that Karen and I had had that little chat.
Good coffee. Stirring conversation. Easy, breezy human contact. Free refill. Right with the world and some strange words.
Not a bad morning.
***
Monday, January 17, 2011
Bits and Pieces: Book titles fractured by design
This is not an advertisement. Though Chapters is a real place, none of the books referred to below exist in the real world.
That said, allow me to mention three things that go together in my mind:
A visit to Chapters bookstore
A cup of dark roast (still under 2 bucks, thank goodness)
A wrinkled tenner (much different than a wrinkled tenor)
Sorry. Four things go together in my mind.
All of the above, plus bargain book tables.
Because my wife bought the coffee I was able to browse for free and walk out with two books for $7.75 plus tax.
["All Dads Have Gas?" I'd read that: GH circa 1969]
Oh yeah, they’ll be great reading once I’m finished the two others I’m working on right now.
As well, while browsing I had a few laughs to myself. A few real book titles morphed into titles I would rather read.
For example, instead of reading ‘I Can Make You Thin’ I’d rather read ‘I Can Make You Think.’ The way things are going, however, in the real world, a more appropriate title might be ‘I Can Make You Thick.’
‘Body by Design’ sounded interesting, but I think the money is with the boomer generation who seem to be adding on pounds by the minute and following the credo ‘Body, I resign.’
Because of two large price stickers I only caught the following words of a title as I walked by one bargain table, i.e., ‘All Dads Can...’
The words quickly morphed into ‘All Dads Have Gas,’ and I chuckled to myself and thought I should write a children’s book with that title asap.
I’m pretty sure I’d make a fortune. I’m an expert on the topic, after all.
***
Read some Lite news here.
.
That said, allow me to mention three things that go together in my mind:
A visit to Chapters bookstore
A cup of dark roast (still under 2 bucks, thank goodness)
A wrinkled tenner (much different than a wrinkled tenor)
Sorry. Four things go together in my mind.
All of the above, plus bargain book tables.
Because my wife bought the coffee I was able to browse for free and walk out with two books for $7.75 plus tax.
["All Dads Have Gas?" I'd read that: GH circa 1969]
Oh yeah, they’ll be great reading once I’m finished the two others I’m working on right now.
As well, while browsing I had a few laughs to myself. A few real book titles morphed into titles I would rather read.
For example, instead of reading ‘I Can Make You Thin’ I’d rather read ‘I Can Make You Think.’ The way things are going, however, in the real world, a more appropriate title might be ‘I Can Make You Thick.’
‘Body by Design’ sounded interesting, but I think the money is with the boomer generation who seem to be adding on pounds by the minute and following the credo ‘Body, I resign.’
Because of two large price stickers I only caught the following words of a title as I walked by one bargain table, i.e., ‘All Dads Can...’
The words quickly morphed into ‘All Dads Have Gas,’ and I chuckled to myself and thought I should write a children’s book with that title asap.
I’m pretty sure I’d make a fortune. I’m an expert on the topic, after all.
***
Read some Lite news here.
.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Morning Vignettes PT 4 at The Little Red Roaster
Just before my wife and I left The Roaster this morning (and after miles of interesting conversation), I got up from my chair to steal a refill of dark roast.
As I walked behind the counter I said to Karen, a girl on staff, “Don’t worry about me. I’m just stealing coffee.”
And so began my second conversation of the morning that included the word ‘smarmy.’
While filling up my large mug, and just before throwing loose change into the tip jar, I turned toward Karen and asked, “Have you heard of the word ‘smarmy?’”
“Sure,” she said.
“What does it mean to you,” I asked.
Her nose wrinkled almost right away and I thought she was going to refer to fish guts, but she mentioned a few other ideas.
We agreed upon ‘too familiar’ and a ‘little too close for comfort,’ and she finished with ‘like a weasel.’
“Yes, weasel,” I said, right away.
I have used ‘weasel’ for many years and there were times when it certainly meant smarmy.
Most of the times in the past, however, particularly when talking with elementary students, I tried to convey a positive tone with the word weasel, as in, sure, you can borrow my tape dispenser, but bring it right back, you little weasel.
[“Not all weasels are bad guys”: photo link here]
I’m pretty sure most of the kids took it the way it was intended.
Ten per cent of the time one would reply, I’m not the weasel. You’re the weasel.
And I never flinched. I realized I had a winner.
Sorry, I digress.
Because Karen and I seemed to be on the same page with the meaning of smarmy, I thought I’d give another idea a test drive.
I said, “Would you say that some people - people who come across as too familiar with you - have got a touch of the smarm?”
“Oh, definitely,” she said.
Refill in hand, I returned to my seat for my coat, glad that Karen and I had had that little chat.
Good coffee. Stirring conversation. Easy, breezy human contact. Free refill. Right with the world and some strange words.
Not a bad morning.
[End of Scene 4 and Morning Vignettes.]
***
Where did smarmy come from?
For more about my history with the word, please click here.
.
As I walked behind the counter I said to Karen, a girl on staff, “Don’t worry about me. I’m just stealing coffee.”
And so began my second conversation of the morning that included the word ‘smarmy.’
While filling up my large mug, and just before throwing loose change into the tip jar, I turned toward Karen and asked, “Have you heard of the word ‘smarmy?’”
“Sure,” she said.
“What does it mean to you,” I asked.
Her nose wrinkled almost right away and I thought she was going to refer to fish guts, but she mentioned a few other ideas.
We agreed upon ‘too familiar’ and a ‘little too close for comfort,’ and she finished with ‘like a weasel.’
“Yes, weasel,” I said, right away.
I have used ‘weasel’ for many years and there were times when it certainly meant smarmy.
Most of the times in the past, however, particularly when talking with elementary students, I tried to convey a positive tone with the word weasel, as in, sure, you can borrow my tape dispenser, but bring it right back, you little weasel.
[“Not all weasels are bad guys”: photo link here]
I’m pretty sure most of the kids took it the way it was intended.
Ten per cent of the time one would reply, I’m not the weasel. You’re the weasel.
And I never flinched. I realized I had a winner.
Sorry, I digress.
Because Karen and I seemed to be on the same page with the meaning of smarmy, I thought I’d give another idea a test drive.
I said, “Would you say that some people - people who come across as too familiar with you - have got a touch of the smarm?”
“Oh, definitely,” she said.
Refill in hand, I returned to my seat for my coat, glad that Karen and I had had that little chat.
Good coffee. Stirring conversation. Easy, breezy human contact. Free refill. Right with the world and some strange words.
Not a bad morning.
[End of Scene 4 and Morning Vignettes.]
***
Where did smarmy come from?
For more about my history with the word, please click here.
.
Morning Vignettes PT 1 at The Little Red Roaster
I slept like a rock last night (maybe had something to do with my 40 mile ride on the exercise bike while reading ‘song for the blue ocean’ before going to bed) and woke up bleary eyed.
As I washed the blear out of my eyes my wife asked if I wanted to go the The Roaster for coffee.
“Sure,” I croaked.
The morning air must have been extra crispy because by the time we reached the coffee shop I felt somewhat alive, even energetic.
I heard two men with familiar faces talking about not having small bills to break a twenty as I squeezed into a nearby chair.
I reached for my wallet and said, “I think I can help.”
I pulled out two old fivers and a brand new ten dollar bill.
As I initiated the trade I said, “The ten just came off the clothesline this morning.”
["Thanksh for the coffee, Babe."]
One smiled, took the money, fingered the ten, handed me the twenty and said, “Feels and smells fresh.”
I knew I had a growing audience at the time so replied, “Right out of the laundry room.”
I sat down a satisfied man.
Coffee. My wife paid. Easy human contact. I established an old standard counterfeiting scenario.
And scored perfect timing with the last line as I slipped my behind into a comfy chair.
I shoulda been in movies.
[End of Scene 1.]
***
More ‘fine art’ here.
.
As I washed the blear out of my eyes my wife asked if I wanted to go the The Roaster for coffee.
“Sure,” I croaked.
The morning air must have been extra crispy because by the time we reached the coffee shop I felt somewhat alive, even energetic.
I heard two men with familiar faces talking about not having small bills to break a twenty as I squeezed into a nearby chair.
I reached for my wallet and said, “I think I can help.”
I pulled out two old fivers and a brand new ten dollar bill.
As I initiated the trade I said, “The ten just came off the clothesline this morning.”
["Thanksh for the coffee, Babe."]
One smiled, took the money, fingered the ten, handed me the twenty and said, “Feels and smells fresh.”
I knew I had a growing audience at the time so replied, “Right out of the laundry room.”
I sat down a satisfied man.
Coffee. My wife paid. Easy human contact. I established an old standard counterfeiting scenario.
And scored perfect timing with the last line as I slipped my behind into a comfy chair.
I shoulda been in movies.
[End of Scene 1.]
***
More ‘fine art’ here.
.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Drive Thru: Or, go around and around and around
I’m glad I was on foot today. Without incident I entered Williams’ Cafe parking lot, walked into the store and ordered a coffee and muffin.
Had I been driving, however, I’d still be going in circles, maybe even running on empty.
Three signs stand beside the entrance to Williams’ drive-thru on Wonderland Rd. South, London.
[The one on the left makes sense": photos GH]
The one on the left I can figure out. Just follow the one arrow and get your coffee.
The two on the right give me the heebee jeebees.
Is it an either-or situation? For example, follow the top sign and go left, then right, then right again to order your coffee, or, follow the bottom sign and go straight ahead, then right, then right again.
Or, should I add the two sets of directions together and end up in Cleveland?
If you can figure it out, let me know.
***
More I Ask You right here.
http://itstrikesmefunny.blogspot.com/2010/12/i-ask-you-have-you-ever-been-to.html
.
Had I been driving, however, I’d still be going in circles, maybe even running on empty.
Three signs stand beside the entrance to Williams’ drive-thru on Wonderland Rd. South, London.
[The one on the left makes sense": photos GH]
The one on the left I can figure out. Just follow the one arrow and get your coffee.
The two on the right give me the heebee jeebees.
Is it an either-or situation? For example, follow the top sign and go left, then right, then right again to order your coffee, or, follow the bottom sign and go straight ahead, then right, then right again.
Or, should I add the two sets of directions together and end up in Cleveland?
If you can figure it out, let me know.
***
More I Ask You right here.
http://itstrikesmefunny.blogspot.com/2010/12/i-ask-you-have-you-ever-been-to.html
.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
It Strikes Me Funny: Older, wiser, smoother moves
Believe it or not, there are a few advantages to getting older.
Take yesterday’s hockey game:
I saw Angie digging for the puck in the corner, then carry it behind the opposing team’s net. I was already sliding in from my defensive position on the blue line and called for the puck.
Angie saw me, passed the puck without hesitation, right onto the tape of my stick. I fired a low shot.
["Send me in coach": photo GH, circa 1960]
I saw the puck fly through the 4-inch space between the goalie’s pads just before it closed.
The puck hit the back of the net. Game on.
Take this morning:
I heard my wife leave the bathroom and head toward the kitchen while I listened to a weather update on my bedside radio.
I heard the rush of water through pipes under the bedroom floor and the water tap turn off in the kitchen.
I waited 5 more minutes under a warm blanket pulled up to my shoulder. Then I got up and sauntered toward the kitchen.
A fresh cup of coffee, in my favourite mug, was on the counter. One milk, half a sugar.
I may not be as young as I used to be, but my timing - at least in a few important matters - is growing much sharper.
***
Any other advantages from your point of view?
Please read another episode of It Strikes Me Funny.
.
Take yesterday’s hockey game:
I saw Angie digging for the puck in the corner, then carry it behind the opposing team’s net. I was already sliding in from my defensive position on the blue line and called for the puck.
Angie saw me, passed the puck without hesitation, right onto the tape of my stick. I fired a low shot.
["Send me in coach": photo GH, circa 1960]
I saw the puck fly through the 4-inch space between the goalie’s pads just before it closed.
The puck hit the back of the net. Game on.
Take this morning:
I heard my wife leave the bathroom and head toward the kitchen while I listened to a weather update on my bedside radio.
I heard the rush of water through pipes under the bedroom floor and the water tap turn off in the kitchen.
I waited 5 more minutes under a warm blanket pulled up to my shoulder. Then I got up and sauntered toward the kitchen.
A fresh cup of coffee, in my favourite mug, was on the counter. One milk, half a sugar.
I may not be as young as I used to be, but my timing - at least in a few important matters - is growing much sharper.
***
Any other advantages from your point of view?
Please read another episode of It Strikes Me Funny.
.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
It Strikes Me Funny: How do you spell ‘delectable?’
My wife and I just returned from The Little Red Roaster in Wortley Village and I’m 5 minutes away from writing a very serious post, i.e., ‘How to save 10 bucks a week for tough times ahead.’
But first, something was mentioned during our first normal conversation of the day that I have to put down before I forget.
(We had earlier conversations [“What day is this? Who are you?” “Coffee?”] but they don’t apply here.)
While sipping our coffees two women in their mid-seventies rose behind us to leave.
["Delicious or delectable. You be the judge."]
Their departure triggered a memory. True story.
One of my wife’s friends overheard two grey-haired ladies talking about me one day and told her the following:
One said to the other, “That young man has such a delectable personality.”
When I first heard this story I said to my wife, “I can understand ‘delicious’... but ‘delectable?’ What do you think?”
Unfortunately, my wife had a mouthful of coffee at the time.
I have the stained shirt in my closet to prove it.
***
So, delicious or delectable?
Seriously, I think both are dead funny.
.
But first, something was mentioned during our first normal conversation of the day that I have to put down before I forget.
(We had earlier conversations [“What day is this? Who are you?” “Coffee?”] but they don’t apply here.)
While sipping our coffees two women in their mid-seventies rose behind us to leave.
["Delicious or delectable. You be the judge."]
Their departure triggered a memory. True story.
One of my wife’s friends overheard two grey-haired ladies talking about me one day and told her the following:
One said to the other, “That young man has such a delectable personality.”
When I first heard this story I said to my wife, “I can understand ‘delicious’... but ‘delectable?’ What do you think?”
Unfortunately, my wife had a mouthful of coffee at the time.
I have the stained shirt in my closet to prove it.
***
So, delicious or delectable?
Seriously, I think both are dead funny.
.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Senior Citizen Alert: You may be pouring your own refills soon
You may have noticed - I like numbers, statistics, and speculating re same.
Here are some stats that caught my eye recently and that may soon have a huge impact on my life and your own.
["So, where's my coffee?"]
“All levels of government will have to reassess priorities because senior citizens could soon outnumber children for the first time in Canadian history... StatsCan expects there will be about 10 million Canadians over 65 in 2036, about 25% of the population.” (May 27, London Free Press)
I love StatsCan: The agency makes me think.
For example:
I think that’s a lot of seniors.
I think I’ll be one of them. I’ll be the youthful-looking 86-year old sitting on the patio at The Red Roaster wearing red sunglasses and a spiffy straw hat.
According to the stats, I think we seniors will easily outnumber the young wait staff.
I think one day in the future I may have to pour my own coffee and refill.
I think, good thing I worked there for awhile and have the experience.
I can pour your coffee too. Don’t forget to donate to the tip jar, eh.
.
Here are some stats that caught my eye recently and that may soon have a huge impact on my life and your own.
["So, where's my coffee?"]
“All levels of government will have to reassess priorities because senior citizens could soon outnumber children for the first time in Canadian history... StatsCan expects there will be about 10 million Canadians over 65 in 2036, about 25% of the population.” (May 27, London Free Press)
I love StatsCan: The agency makes me think.
For example:
I think that’s a lot of seniors.
I think I’ll be one of them. I’ll be the youthful-looking 86-year old sitting on the patio at The Red Roaster wearing red sunglasses and a spiffy straw hat.
According to the stats, I think we seniors will easily outnumber the young wait staff.
I think one day in the future I may have to pour my own coffee and refill.
I think, good thing I worked there for awhile and have the experience.
I can pour your coffee too. Don’t forget to donate to the tip jar, eh.
.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Young at Heart: Why would I say ‘yes’ to such a thing?
April could be a really embarrassing month for me.
As some of you know, I drink many cups of coffee per week at The Little Red Roaster in Wortley Village - yes, the dark roast is yummy.
And for the last few months, not only have I been enjoying the coffee but a changing array of art work and photographs supplied by local artists.
["More CD frames underway": workshop photos GAH]
Because I also have a few birdhouses on display there I was recently asked if I’d like to show off a few more of my creations. (The owner wants to fill the walls again once the photos of scenes from Portugal come down at the end of March).
["You don't like the Stray Cats?"]
Caffeine, adrenaline, nervousness kicked in simultaneously and I said, without much thought, okay.
Gulp. I can’t just throw up empty wooden frames for CDs or LPs. They should have CDs and albums in them.
["More cedar LP frames are on the way"]
So, in April, albums reflecting my taste in music (along with a bit of prose and a few more birdhouses) will adorn the walls of my favourite coffee shop.
Laugh at the Stray Cats if you will, but I like ‘em.
Geez, I'm embarrassed already.
.
Just wait ‘til you see Barbara Streisand in one of my cedar frames.
She’s beautiful. And so is Ms. Streisand.
(That’s The Way We Were many years ago).
.
As some of you know, I drink many cups of coffee per week at The Little Red Roaster in Wortley Village - yes, the dark roast is yummy.
And for the last few months, not only have I been enjoying the coffee but a changing array of art work and photographs supplied by local artists.
["More CD frames underway": workshop photos GAH]
Because I also have a few birdhouses on display there I was recently asked if I’d like to show off a few more of my creations. (The owner wants to fill the walls again once the photos of scenes from Portugal come down at the end of March).
["You don't like the Stray Cats?"]
Caffeine, adrenaline, nervousness kicked in simultaneously and I said, without much thought, okay.
Gulp. I can’t just throw up empty wooden frames for CDs or LPs. They should have CDs and albums in them.
["More cedar LP frames are on the way"]
So, in April, albums reflecting my taste in music (along with a bit of prose and a few more birdhouses) will adorn the walls of my favourite coffee shop.
Laugh at the Stray Cats if you will, but I like ‘em.
Geez, I'm embarrassed already.
.
Just wait ‘til you see Barbara Streisand in one of my cedar frames.
She’s beautiful. And so is Ms. Streisand.
(That’s The Way We Were many years ago).
.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Zoom w a View: Port Bruce, warm and icy
Port Bruce is a small, oft-times forgotten fishing port situated on the north shore of Lake Erie and across the lake from Ashtabula.
["Yesterday - warm enough for shirt sleeves": photos GAH]
Several times per year, most often during fine weather, I sit on its beach with coffee and camera in hand.
["I tipped my hat to Tippy though he (she?) was absent"]
Three Cs - cruising, coffee, camera.
.
["Yesterday - warm enough for shirt sleeves": photos GAH]
Several times per year, most often during fine weather, I sit on its beach with coffee and camera in hand.
["I tipped my hat to Tippy though he (she?) was absent"]
Three Cs - cruising, coffee, camera.
.
Monday, January 18, 2010
There is Weather Today: But, it's in Fenelon Falls
As I look out the second floor window of my son's house in Fenelon Falls I notice that most of the ice is gone from the river that joins Cameron and Spurgeon Lake.
Fenelon is going through a January thaw much like London. As snow was disappearing from my deck in old Londontown last week, ice was breaking up in and around here.
I have photos to prove it but am away from my computer and have no camera cord.
Pity. The river looks lovely, though I'd still rather see it covered with ice.
***
Time for my third cup of my son's strong coffee.
Lovely.
.
Fenelon is going through a January thaw much like London. As snow was disappearing from my deck in old Londontown last week, ice was breaking up in and around here.
I have photos to prove it but am away from my computer and have no camera cord.
Pity. The river looks lovely, though I'd still rather see it covered with ice.
***
Time for my third cup of my son's strong coffee.
Lovely.
.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Coffee or tea? Coffee or tea? Coffee or tea?
Coffee or tea?
I have to choose one or the other several times per day, every day.
Don’t ask me to choose some other beverage - I won’t listen.
It was hard enough to start asking the question, let alone consider a third or fourth option.
It was hard to choose tea more often than in the past.
But now I’m in the habit of choosing tea about 40 per cent of the time. Odds are, that percentage will go up.
Why? Because when I drink Revive tea I feel, after about 15 minutes, nicely... ohhh ... revived. (Yeh, that’s the word I was looking for).
***
Are you reducing your coffee intake?
Are you asking yourself, coffee or tea?
.
I have to choose one or the other several times per day, every day.
Don’t ask me to choose some other beverage - I won’t listen.
It was hard enough to start asking the question, let alone consider a third or fourth option.
It was hard to choose tea more often than in the past.
But now I’m in the habit of choosing tea about 40 per cent of the time. Odds are, that percentage will go up.
Why? Because when I drink Revive tea I feel, after about 15 minutes, nicely... ohhh ... revived. (Yeh, that’s the word I was looking for).
***
Are you reducing your coffee intake?
Are you asking yourself, coffee or tea?
.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Red Zinger is a type of tea that, in my opinion...
has an unusual flavour, kinda spicy and flower-like (notice I won’t likely ever get hired to be a taste-tester for any product: “Yeh, your grilled chicken product kinda tastes rubber-chickeny, maybe even with a touch of charcoal stuff. Not that I’ve ever eaten a rubber chicken”), and proves the theory that some people - including me - will drink almost anything to help reduce their caffeine addiction.
Now that I’m back from my first lengthy visit with my new grand-daughters I can return to my caffeine-free Mint Green Tea.
Kinda minty.
***
I’m still drinking coffee, but a lot less.
And I’m calmer. I said I’m calmer.
You heard what I said.
.
Now that I’m back from my first lengthy visit with my new grand-daughters I can return to my caffeine-free Mint Green Tea.
Kinda minty.
***
I’m still drinking coffee, but a lot less.
And I’m calmer. I said I’m calmer.
You heard what I said.
.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Caffeine-free Mint Tea: New hope for energy for Friday hockey?
I’m finished with the Elder Flower tea though it helped me lower my coffee intake.
Downside. Too much like compost.
Up side. Reminded me of three lovely aunts during better days.
["Mint Green Tea - does it have legs?": GAH]
I’m moving on to a new box of Mint Tea. I’ll try anything once to help shake the coffee habit. Sometimes two three times in a row before it dawns on me that I don’t really like it.
Smells suspiciously like Elder Flower but that might be because the boxes were stuffed side by each inside a small drawer.
Fortunately, it has a fresh, almost minty taste. That’s what I look for in a mint tea.
I worry about the caffeine-free, however. Will I have the legs to chase the young guns during my first Friday hockey game of the season today?
This group are more than a touch faster than my 50-plus gang. My lungs ache already.
***
Have you switched to caffeine-free? Are you a better person now?
.
Downside. Too much like compost.
Up side. Reminded me of three lovely aunts during better days.
["Mint Green Tea - does it have legs?": GAH]
I’m moving on to a new box of Mint Tea. I’ll try anything once to help shake the coffee habit. Sometimes two three times in a row before it dawns on me that I don’t really like it.
Smells suspiciously like Elder Flower but that might be because the boxes were stuffed side by each inside a small drawer.
Fortunately, it has a fresh, almost minty taste. That’s what I look for in a mint tea.
I worry about the caffeine-free, however. Will I have the legs to chase the young guns during my first Friday hockey game of the season today?
This group are more than a touch faster than my 50-plus gang. My lungs ache already.
***
Have you switched to caffeine-free? Are you a better person now?
.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Someone in Austria is laughing at me right now
I have to reduce my coffee intake.
So I'm drinking Elder Flowers tea this morning.
["Three elderly aunts and a friend" photo GAH]
I'm pretty sure, after several sips, I'll never get addicted to this flavour.
Is Elder Flowers code for grass clippings? Compost?
Is someone from Austria laughing at me right now?
.
So I'm drinking Elder Flowers tea this morning.
["Three elderly aunts and a friend" photo GAH]
I'm pretty sure, after several sips, I'll never get addicted to this flavour.
Is Elder Flowers code for grass clippings? Compost?
Is someone from Austria laughing at me right now?
.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Now I Know: How Melba’s toast was invented
The rye bread we had in the house this morning was a bit stale but I threw it into the toaster oven anyway and pressed ON.
It was taking forever to toast so I investigated through bleary eyes and found the toaster oven was set to OVEN. I popped it open.
["The hat is definitely a mistake": GAH circa 1972]
Though the stale rye had been ovenated it still looked pale, so I popped it back in and toasted it for added colour.
Two minutes later it looked more like toast and after adding pb - so it could stick more firmly to the roof of my mouth - I noticed it tasted more like Melba’s toast, a product that is making her a fortune.
***
Are there other products, made by mistake, that sit on store shelves today?
Leaf blowers qualify, right? I mean, you wouldn’t set out to actually make one, would you?
.
It was taking forever to toast so I investigated through bleary eyes and found the toaster oven was set to OVEN. I popped it open.
["The hat is definitely a mistake": GAH circa 1972]
Though the stale rye had been ovenated it still looked pale, so I popped it back in and toasted it for added colour.
Two minutes later it looked more like toast and after adding pb - so it could stick more firmly to the roof of my mouth - I noticed it tasted more like Melba’s toast, a product that is making her a fortune.
***
Are there other products, made by mistake, that sit on store shelves today?
Leaf blowers qualify, right? I mean, you wouldn’t set out to actually make one, would you?
.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
I’m a slow learner. More coffee needed for sure
A reader encouraged me recently to place more birdhouses in my backyard, even thought the two I have are vacant. (Strength in numbers?)
I think I know why I can’t attract birds.
1. Seven neighbourhood cats.
2. One dog on the other side of my fence.
3. One dozen evil squirrels hiding in the trees.
["Veer? What's a veer?": photos GAH]
4. And this just dawned on me this morning - after a big cup of coffee. The one pictured above is surrounded by spruce branches - and some birds like to have a clear path through the air to their nest.
["For the sports minded bird"]
How would they be able to get their young to leave the nest if the flight path appeared hazardous?
“If I jump out I’ll hit that big branch, Pops” the young would say. "My life would be over before it began."
“Just hop out and veer to the right.”
“Veer? What’s a veer?”
So, today, after a few jobs are finished, I’ll move the house to a better spot, one with no darn veer problems.
.
I think I know why I can’t attract birds.
1. Seven neighbourhood cats.
2. One dog on the other side of my fence.
3. One dozen evil squirrels hiding in the trees.
["Veer? What's a veer?": photos GAH]
4. And this just dawned on me this morning - after a big cup of coffee. The one pictured above is surrounded by spruce branches - and some birds like to have a clear path through the air to their nest.
["For the sports minded bird"]
How would they be able to get their young to leave the nest if the flight path appeared hazardous?
“If I jump out I’ll hit that big branch, Pops” the young would say. "My life would be over before it began."
“Just hop out and veer to the right.”
“Veer? What’s a veer?”
So, today, after a few jobs are finished, I’ll move the house to a better spot, one with no darn veer problems.
.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Coffee and the Art of Motorcycle Bonding
One full week with a new used bike - only two short rides.
I’ve got to do better than that or else my motorcycle and I will never be a team... and we need to be a good team if I want to ride to Temagami for camping or Halifax to fulfill a promise - in style and safety.
But things conspire to keep me home.
There are many woodworking projects, a craft sale on Saturday and frequent poor weather.
As well, grandson Ollie and I get along so well now, I hate to leave him behind.
He visits my workshop almost daily and cried yesterday when he saw me warming up my bike.
“No motorcycle, Papa,” he said. “Stay in shed.”
Fortunately, he settled for a nap and after he snuggled into my side of the bed I disappeared out the back door with coffee money and headed toward one of my favourite nearby towns - St. Marys, or Stonetown.
["St. Marys, or Stonetown": photo GAH]
Over coffee I reflected:
- The bike rides like a charm
- It’s certainly ready for a 2,100 km. trip to Halifax
- Temagami, closer to home, would be an excellent first long ride
- After only a few more short rides - to attune myself to the machine’s heft, sounds and rhythms - I’m pretty sure I’ll be fully comfortable
- Know the machine, stay within its limits and your own
- Adjust the shifter pedal upward, slightly
***
I’ll let you know when Temagami is a go.
I’ve never been, so anticipation will run high.
.
I’ve got to do better than that or else my motorcycle and I will never be a team... and we need to be a good team if I want to ride to Temagami for camping or Halifax to fulfill a promise - in style and safety.
But things conspire to keep me home.
There are many woodworking projects, a craft sale on Saturday and frequent poor weather.
As well, grandson Ollie and I get along so well now, I hate to leave him behind.
He visits my workshop almost daily and cried yesterday when he saw me warming up my bike.
“No motorcycle, Papa,” he said. “Stay in shed.”
Fortunately, he settled for a nap and after he snuggled into my side of the bed I disappeared out the back door with coffee money and headed toward one of my favourite nearby towns - St. Marys, or Stonetown.
["St. Marys, or Stonetown": photo GAH]
Over coffee I reflected:
- The bike rides like a charm
- It’s certainly ready for a 2,100 km. trip to Halifax
- Temagami, closer to home, would be an excellent first long ride
- After only a few more short rides - to attune myself to the machine’s heft, sounds and rhythms - I’m pretty sure I’ll be fully comfortable
- Know the machine, stay within its limits and your own
- Adjust the shifter pedal upward, slightly
***
I’ll let you know when Temagami is a go.
I’ve never been, so anticipation will run high.
.
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