Paradise - My Style

Oh my...yet another day in paradise

2012-01-29T11:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I awoke just after 4 a.m., I proceeded to prepare my coffee in order to have a calm morning with my coffee and a cigarette. Oh lord, not to be. For some reason, I decided to look out the window - oh my...there stands the biggest moose I have ever seen in my life. One might wonder how I could see the big brut standing while in total darkness. There is a big spot light at the roadway.

I did not even think to venture out onto the porch, I got my coffee and came back to the window and was anticipating the moose to be where I left him. Oh no - my oath - he is standing right there looking at me through the window! Holy smucksville. I near went to wake up Noisemaker, but then I thought - well, can he crash on up and break the walls of the house, he cannot go through the window - can he, no...ah, I wait and think...he is a big moose. The window is near 8' off ground level, this brut is all head. Noisemaker, Noisemaker...

I wait, I sit in darkness - afraid if I turn on a light Brut might turn on the side of owly. Good grief, I spend near two hours waiting for Mr. Brut Moose to make some slight departure, I need porch time.

I watched as the moose makes his way in some direction - I am not good with directions - I know it is safe now. I proceed to the porch, ah relief! There is peace. I am safe.

Noisemaker awakens, I race in - all in a flutter - Noisemaker, Noisemaker - there was a big huge moose this morning right here at the window. Noisemaker says - he is quite certain it is not that big. First light, Noisemaker goes out and looks at the tracks.

Comes back in and lets me know - he knows his moose. Tells me from the tracks, the indentations in the snow...that sucker was big...did you see the tracks, indentations - where it laid down? Oh, Noisemaker, I reply - I saw it all. But now because you saw it - all is well.

Noisemaker, Noisemaker - you have no complaints
You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't
So listen up buster and listen up good
Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood
Signed - Your Wife

John Prine - Dear Abby (well, of course - not the wife part)

In Dreams, I Walk With You

2012-01-21T11:35:00.000-08:00

I find it amazing what vivid dreams I have. I dream several times a night. I travel, I see places I have never been. I go Italy, all over Europe. I meet John Prine in a white suit (much similar to that to which John Travolta wore in some long ago movie). I believe my mind works overtime and enjoys it very much.

Last night in my dream, I met the President of the United States, Barack Obama. We had a lovely time. He wore the most amazing suit, it was tan/brown in color, with satin trim, he looked very handsome. We sat, chatted, I showed him old pictures of my family. We laughed, he has a hearty laugh.

I do not rightly or lefty understand the political field of the United States, I do respect the people of the United States. My Grandpa was born in the USA, Grand Rapids, Michigan. I have several relations alive and kicking, still living - Born In The USA - Bruce Springsteen.

In dreams I walk with you
In dreams I talk with you
~ Roy Orbison

Remembering You - It's An All Night Blue

2012-01-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

Reeda Buresh/Tom Reynolds

Photo Credit - Reeda Buresh

Old Prine Fans Never Die - They Just Go To Paradise

Two years ago today, Tom Reynolds (Crusher) went on to Paradise. I have very fond memories of Tom. He was one of the first Priners I became acquainted with. We have quite the family of Prine, everyone is remembering Tom/Crusher today.

Remembering You - It's An All Night Blue

John Prine

We rode her into the foothills

Bobby brought the gasoline

We stood 'round her in a circle

As she lit up the ravine

The spring high desert wind

Rushed down on us

All the way back home

Gypsy Biker - Bruce Springsteen

The Prine

2012-01-18T11:40:00.000-08:00

It is official, I have The Prine.

I have lived on the mountain side for near seven years. Yesterday, our neighbor - Bob (lives down the side street from us) stopped by to see how we were fairing up with the cold weather. I have seen him a few times at the mail box and spoke accordingly.

With visiting with Bob and in our conversation I asked him if he had ever heard of John Prine? He looked at me and said "Sam Stone". I was in pure glory, pure Prine. We talked big Prine. I told him how I met John Prine X2, did my Paradise Wave.

My Noisemaker put on West 54th - I continued to Prine. Bob looked at me and said, Bev - you got The Prine! I laughed. I never thought of having The Prine. But I do - I got The Prine and I like it very much!

Simply Amazed

2012-01-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

WOW - the wonders of the mountain truly amaze me. Today, Sunday is the day for the Province newspaper - it contains 5 (five) crosswords puzzles. I have dreamed for a month to use my new Merriam-Webster's Crossword Puzzle Dictionary. Noisemaker and I went to store because we needed lotto tickets, I prayed to the god of crossword, the newspaper would be available to purchase. Luck is not on side of me. No paper.

When we were driving home, I saw my neighborette. I call to the general store - oh my, I need my paper, could you please tell Audra to pick up one for me, I'll meet her on the roadway to pick up and pay.

My word, it is so cold outside, the wind is blasting, I gotta Prine and dance just to survive. I think of Jesus the missing years...jesus, I am saying - I am missing my years, I just need my paper. I Prine, I dance, and I sing (just to keep warm).

I should, at this mention, I had spent the morning shovelling the white fluffy stuff - we got about 5".

I see a red car rounding up the corner. I am thinking my paper, my paper. Oh delightful, arrival, touchdown!

As for coldness, well - we are sitting at -18 and it is to drop to -35. Celcius. God help me. I do not belong - hold - ...listening to A Whiter Shade of Pale. I may turn a whiter shade of pale, is that possible.

I will survive, I have John Prine. Jason Wilber opening for Jimmy Webb - and I am listening to Wicked Game - Chris Issak. I love the song, I sing it well. You all should meet me you could here me wail. lol

Jason Wilber Opening For Jimmy Webb

2012-01-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

I was very pleased today to read on facebook today that Jason Wilber will be opening for Jimmy Webb on January 21 in Cincinnati, Ohio at the St. Xavier High School. Good on Jason, what a great concert this will be.

Jimmy Webb is an exceptional song writer. Witcha Lineman, lots of Glen Campbell songs were written by Jimmy Webb.

What is close to my heart is this:

The Supremes - Produced and Arranged by Jimmy Webb

November 1972

The Supremes - Jean Terrell, Mary Wilson, and Lynda Laurence

There are some great songs on this album written by Jimmy Webb - 5:30 Plane - I Keep It Hid. One written by Harry Nilsson titled Paradise. (Made me think of John Prine).

Jason, I think is coming into a new stage in his life. A stage well deserved.

oh teehee, they have the same initials, I just spotted that

Jason Wilber

Jimmy Webb

Cincinnati is in for a big treat on January 21st. Wish I could be there. Good Luck Jason.

For more information see: www.jasonwilber.com

www.jimmywebb.com

A Picture Bouquet For All Of You!

2012-01-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

If I could send all you folks a bouquet, it would look like this! Some of my favorite flowers, a rose, a poppy, daffodils - it would be a beautiful fresh arrangement.

I love flowers. Everytime I go to the grocery store, I always stop and smell the flowers, talk with them and sometimes I dance. Toe tap.

~Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side

Keep on the sunny side of life~

Ada Blenkhorn 1899

Stop and smell the flowers, hug your partner, watch the animals - sit a spell - it'll do you no harm.

~Like sunshine feeding daisies, like the love hidden deep in your heart~

John Prine 1971

Painting by my Mother In Law 1982

Yesterday

2012-01-05T14:03:00.000-08:00

I had a delightful, chatty day yesterday. Finally, I was able to have a telephone conversation with a friend to which I have never met. Noisemaker has put us on a telephone plan - $6.00 a month and you can yap for 300 minutes. Holy smucksville! I had decided about two weeks ago I shall make a telephone call to Tennessee to my Prine friend, Donna. Yesterday, we connected. I heard this southern belle say Hello - it rather took me by surprise when I finally was able to have her answer. She has been having difficulty with connections. We had a very nice conversation and one day I hope we will be able to meet. Much like all my Prine friends. I have only got to meet one of them - Charlene (Prine - Vancouver, October 2009).

After the telephone conversation, I had to visit the porch. I decided I should put my boots on and walk the path. The path - well, I built it for my seasonal neighbor so he would not have to shovel when he comes to visit in the winter months. It is about 170 feet long, if I walk that 5/6 times a day, I feel like I have done some exercise and then I do not have to walk on the roadway. Those heathen drivers can easily make me run to the ditch.

The weather outside yesterday was spring like. Snow was melting, sun was shining. The path was somewhat icy. I decided I should walk in the snow - holy snowsville! I sunk. Good lord, I thought I was entering a black hole. I tried to leach on to the wood shed, like it was going to catch me or something. I hit my left hand (the one I broke) as I was trying to save myself. Blood came spewing, I was cursing and trying to save myself from the black hole of the mountain side. As you can tell, I survive.

Today it is terrifying icy outside. Even Noisemaker slipped. He did not fall, nor hit his head. Rather a shame, had he taken a head hit it may have knocked some sense up in the vacant space. Know full well folks, I am joking. I could not live on this mountain side if Noisemaker was not with me.

Sunrise

2012-01-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

It was beautiful this morning.

What can you see in the cloud formation?

I love mornings like this.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T10:46:00.000-08:00

The place I call home - the mountain side.

I hope 2012 brings another John Prine concert for me; at some point in time I would love to meet up with all my phellow Priners. whooOOOHHHHwheeeEEE that would be something special for sure.

To each of you and your families, may 2012 bring you nothing but the best.

Cheers, Beers, and Prine ~ Happy New Year!

From Soup To Nuts

2011-12-28T17:30:00.000-08:00

I have yet to figure the color combination on the camera so you get what you get until I do. I am taking this photo in a pale yellow room. Here it appears - golden?

This is my family, extended family, Prine and Obama thrown in for good, fine measure.

We have two granddaughers, Kayla and Carley. Three grandsons - Colbey, Jaden, and Hunter. Two great-grandchildren - Mila and Phoenix.

I am not blood related to any of the above, but Gramma Shaw is all they know. Of course, not Barack or John - teehee. I am quite attached to the name - as is Noisemaker.

John Prine, Nashville - December 2011

2011-12-23T18:20:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit - Charlene Stevenson

Oh my! HO HO HO and Merry Merry!

A John Prine Christmas

2011-12-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Too funny, today I was listening to A John Prine Christmas. The last song ~A John Prine Christmas. John speaks of his childhood years, his christmas creditials, and his love for christmas. He speaks into Away In A Manger. In my brain - the light bulb lit up, brightly!

When I was six years old, in grade one my teacher telephoned my Mom to ask if I would be comfortable with singing Away In A Manger on stage, by myself. My Mom said sure. I went on stage, I stood on the 'x'. I started to sing. I saw my Mom and Dad in the audience...I did not quit singing - I simply raised my left hand - shoulder height and waved. Today that is now the paradise wave. Who the heck would have thought!

Now, I have some of the dots connected - thank you, Johnny!

HO HO HO

RIP - Ron

2011-12-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

A very good friend of mine passed away in May 2011, today I finally received the memorial card and as upsetting it was, I was thankful to receive.

Very fond memories, I have of Ron. We used to do a great rendition of Saturday Night Light - the news. I was Rosanna - Rosanna, Rosanna Danna. Still brings a laugh to my heart and it warms it.

Ron died in a fire - he was burned beyond recognition. He will always remain, to me, a close friend. He will be missed.

Say Don - buddy - Say Don

Love You, Ron - now and always

Our Christmas Tree

2011-12-21T11:13:00.000-08:00

As you can see, from the picture - we have a very small christmas. I can relate. Small ornaments; most of which were made by my mother-in-law and some were gifts. The Marilyn Monroe that you see centre - that is one of my favorites. The last time I saw John Prine - that is what I did - threw my arms up just like Marilyn. Arm throwing is the only thing Marilyn and I have in common - and that is stretching it. teehee

The Grouse

2011-12-21T11:03:00.000-08:00

The lone grouse that arrived yesterday has a mate. Can you see it - it is located ground level behind the pine tree. I am so happy there are two - two hearts are always better than one.

I thawed some frozen saskatoon berries and put them out for them - they seem to enjoy. Noisemaker says we must name them now - the female, I say - should have a name something to do with being brave. She is very brave - the male is quite skiddish. teehee

Beautiful birds, indeed.

The Brave One

2011-12-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

The bundle that you see between the two pine trees is a grouse. She is very brave - she is not frighten of me at all. I think I should call her Brave. Brave arrived early this morning and has been eating, off and on for nearly five hours. The crazy squirrel came around and tried to run Brave off, but she did not budge. Brave stood her ground and the squirrel ran off. I must introduce John Prine to my new friend.

Here on the mountain side; we work with nature and the wild animals not against them.

Merry Christmas my feathered friends.

Christmas Baking

2011-12-20T12:48:00.000-08:00

Christmas Baking

I make up trays of homemade goodies to give to my neighbors and to the postal delivery person. Oh, to see the happy smiles on their faces when I delivered them, I enjoy that very much.

The trays contain an assortment of goodies - butter tarts, melting moments, peanut butter candies, fruit and nut bars, sugar cookies and a bag of christmas candies. I enjoy to bake and I enjoy putting the trays together.

See if you all lived near to me - this is what you would receive.

Merry Christmas!

Smoke 'em if you got 'em

2011-12-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

The front picture of a birthday card I received from Janis (skunkeyejan). Pure Prine.

She wrote inside the card that she actually had purchased it last year. In her natural Prine way she stored it in a safe place. When came time for mailing, she could not find it - this year she found it and sent it for me. It is golden, a treasure.

Bottomless Lake - John Prine

HO HO HO

2011-12-15T10:36:00.000-08:00

HO! HO! HO! and teehee, teehee.

Yesterday when I went to get the mail, I received an -oh so happy- parcel. Thank you Janis.

She sent a HO HO HO hat to which I am modelling. Actually, I have been laughing so hard and flipping my braids just like Cher once flipped her hair.

Ouch, much snow fell last night - a good 8". So we have been outside shovelling. I have been singing my heart out. Making new words to a carol -

5 gold rings

4 calling birds

3 french hens

2 turtle doves

and a John Prine in my pine tree

{then, I giggle and say HO HO HO}, giggle some more.

Noisemaker, he just shakes his head. I heard him say ...why me lord, why me. I laughed and sang big time. Noisemaker, he took the photo that is why it is blurred - he is not a great picture taker but at least he took the picture.

And, yes - I do have a John Prine in my pine tree. I would take a photo of it - but I cannot get there due to the amount of snow I would have to go through. Of course, it is not the real John Prine in my pine tree (geez, could you imagine having the real John Prine in my pine tree). It is a Prine suncatcher.

HO! HO! HO!

10 days until Christmas

...there's a darkness - on the edge of town...or the mountain side

2011-12-13T14:17:00.000-08:00

Second darkness shot - christmas lights, my Prine wreath, rocks/shells in the tin basket, and a little heart made out of wood. Thank you, Janis.

...it is christmas in prison ~ they'll be music tonight...

John Prine

My Eclipse

2011-12-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

I was outside trying to take a photo or two of the eclipse - this is happy photo I recieved.

From the pictures I took in pure darkness of the eclipse, well - they turned out to be a yellow polka dot on a black, black background. This camera has dark settings - to which I switched to. Quite alarming, everything lights up. I switched body positions and took this photo. I like it. The wreath was made for me, about 35 years ago by my good friend, Gloria (she was a beauty queen). We worked together at the cosmetic counter - at a local department store.

Photo Credit - yours truly

Wood Shed Building - Noisemaker

Wreath - Gloria Carruthers - (RIP)

Paradise - John Prine

2011-12-09T17:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening my brother telephoned to wish me a Happy Birthday. We chatted about The Singing Mailman Delivers and agreed that Paradise for us was the best song. Agreed that all songs were good. As I have written previously my brother, Wesley is a retired mailman - he is enjoying his retirement - enjoying his grandchildren. My word, he got out of pounding the pavement at 55, he did well.

So as we are chatting his telephone started to fade away. He tells me he will recharge and call me back at 7:30. Okay - 7:30 - ring, ring, ring goes the telephone. I said; hello and hear this blast of Paradise, I laugh. Wesley gets on the telephone and starts in - he says Bev I have some new neighbors; they are good folks - from Poland. The fellow plays guitar so I invited them over for some guitar playing and beers. I replied, well isn't that nice to play guitar with friends. Wesley says - I asked him if he knew of John Prine. The fellow did not answer, but pick up his guitar and starts playing Paradise - singing in the Polish language. Wesley then tries to imitate this language, I laughed so hard I was nearing to pee myself. Imagine singing Polish Paradise. I swear Paradise is global/international - it is golden. Way to go - John Prine.

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-12-08T15:51:00.000-08:00

Holy Smucksville - 56 balloons for me today - hard for me to believe.

Quiet day on the mountain side, no big celebrations. However, we are hoping to get to the Coyote Grill tomorrow, it is about 12 miles down the road. It is only opened Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I hope to share a burger and fries with Noisemaker. Maybe even have a special dessert.

Soon I am about to sing with the Postman, John Prine. Relax, toast myself to a happy 56 years.

Christmas Baking - Melting Moments

2011-12-06T14:34:00.000-08:00

Oh, how cute! I was most pleased with this recipe. You can get the recipe and five pounds just for looking at the website at: www.joyofbaking.com under christmas cookies.

Next on the list of christmas baking is butter tarts and I make dozens of them. Noisemaker loves them, one of his favorites. I take a fancy to them myself, I like to have a great heap of whipped cream on top.

Beautiful sunny day here. I should not write this - but I have not had to shovel the white stuff for three days - bonus!

Christmas Baking - Peanut Butter Creams

2011-12-04T14:03:00.000-08:00

First time I have made this recipe and I certainly would make it again. If you like peanut butter and peanuts; this recipe is for you - and you do not have to bake it!

Peanut Butter Creams

1 egg
2 cups icing sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 tablespoon butter - (butter,not margarine) - softened
3/4 cup finely chopped salted peanuts

Using an electric mixer, beat egg slightly in a mixer bowl. Beat in 1 cup of the sugar, add salt, vanilla, peanut butter and butter. Stir in remaining sugar and mix well. If necessary, add more icing sugar to make firm enough to handle. Shape mixture into 1 inch balls; rolls balls in peanuts. Refrigerate.

Makes 3 dozens candies.

There is just Noisemaker and I - these candies did not last too long and there was no 'sweet song' playing. I will be making these again, very soon! Melting Moments, I think I should be baking next, oh they do melt in your mouth.

Note - the ingredient of butter - it is butter - do not use margarine or some low cal pukeolla.

Ouch, Ouch, Ouch ~ my ears!

2011-12-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

When I woke up on Friday morning, I had such a painful ear ache. I swear it was caused by the lip flappin' of Noisemaker. My word, that man can yap at anything and everything. I will give him credit for talking to the birds, I too, talk to many of the animals here on the mountain side. My noisemaker talks to a television set. I can hear him out there lip flappin'. Sometimes, I pause and think ~ oh my ~ is he lip flappin' for me - I listen and generally it is his lip flappin' to the television.

I think sometimes folks just lip flap because they need their lips to flap. Maybe some of them truly wanted to have wings to flap but instead they received lips :)

My lips can flap. I enjoy to have good conversation - constructive conversation; Prine, music, recipes, wildlife, politics. Most of all my lips enjoy the flapping of song. There is nothing quite finer than lip flappin' to John Prine, Neil Young, or Bruce Springsteen. On a good day I can lip flap those three, stir in some Hank Williams, Lesley Gore, Diana Ross and lord knows what else - it becomes a fine tune ~ indeed!

Prine Wisconsin

2011-11-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

Link from www.jpshrine.org - Reeda Buresh

Oh my how exciting for all the Prine followers in Wisconsin. What a great birthday present it was for my Mom - to tell her John Prine - Wisconsin - in March. Today is my Mom's birthday - she would have been 89 - she Prined.

I am so happy for the Prine folks that will attend the concert - Amy, Mark, Bev (not me, another Prine friend), I find it all very exciting.

Milwaukee, will always be the TRPT - Tom Reynolds Prine Territory.

It Is A Dotty Small World

2011-11-29T13:49:00.000-08:00

I thought this was just so cute. Photo from Wilton.

Sometimes in life, folks have to start to connect their dots; start to maybe color pages again. Sit a spell and re-group. Do crossword puzzles and Prine.

I know from my treasured years of experience (lol) life should not be taken for granted. We all should be thankful for a roof over our heads and food on the table.

Recently, I had three people in my realm become acquainted with cancer. Happy to report, they are all alive and well. Their dots got connected.

Sometimes 'It's A Big Old Goofy World' - other times, like my world - it is just dotty! :)

Suncatchers

2011-11-25T06:40:00.000-08:00

My suncatchers - ah, they are so cheery!

Not a great picture as I am up against a yellow wall, but you should be able to receive the general jist of it all. I make these, several of them; they are made out of old cds/dvds. I also make Prine ones. They are the letter 'P' and in small stick on letters the word Prine is. I give those to my Prine friends.

Oh my, I just came in from the porch. It is windy and dark out there this morning. I take a lil bit of a flashlight with me in case I hear some noise to which I cannot identify. Usually that noise is a four legged creature stirring. This morning I heard great noises out there. Good lord, the Plow Boys are coming down the road. Smucksville, I do not like shovelling snow. I try to make the most of it by singing. I like to sing Paradise and another one of my favorites is Nine Pound Hammer (John Prine - Sweet Revenge). I change the words to suit my condition - hence, this Nine Pound Shovel is a little too heavy, buddy for my size, buddy for my size...

Now 10 to 1 you folks will have that song stuck in your brain today. I'll be singing with you as come first light, I'll be out the shovelling and singing - singing and shovelling.

John Cafferty

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

John Cafferty

Eddie and the Cruisers

Yesterday, I watched the movie Eddie and the Cruisers. I placed it, long ago in my memory and left it there. I love the soundtrack to this movie; I once had the album.

John Cafferty is the voice behind Eddie (played by Michael Pare). Both are very easy on the eyes!

Best song - Tender Years. I have had that song stuck in my brain since yesterday afternoon.

John Cafferty sounds much like Bruce Springsteen. Now, Noisemaker - he does not take a liking to much of the music I enjoy. Oh, just to name a few - John Prine, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young - I could go on. After watching the movie yesterday, Noisemaker says to me - I like this music. I was stunned, I had no words and simply let the subject breeze on by me. I know, one day soon - when I least expect it; Noisemaker is going to tell me - I have always like John Prine - I just did not want to admit it. ;)

Christmas Baking - Fruit and Nut Bars

2011-11-25T05:40:00.000-08:00

Great Recipe!

Good lord, I bake so much stuff at christmas time, I enjoy it. I give christmas goody boxes to my good neighbors - I love seeing the big smiles on their faces when they receive. This year my baking for christmas is: Fruit and Nuts Bars, Butter Tarts, Melting Moments, Sugar Cookie Presents, and Peanut Butter Creams. They'll probably be some extras tossed in; I will be baking for the annual ladies Christmas party and also for the Christmas Bingo.

This is the first time I made this recipe and I would make it again. I thought it would be too sweet as one ingredient is a can of condensed milk. It is not too sweet, just right. Here is the recipe:

Fruit and Nuts Bars

(makes 48 squares)

2 cups Flour

3/4 cup packed Brown Sugar

1/2 cup Butter or Margarine, softened

1 1/2 cups salted mixed Nuts, coarsely chopped

1 cup mixed dried Fruit, coarsely chopped

1/2 cup Raisins

1/2 flaked Coconut

2 tablespoons Flour

1 can (14 oz.) sweetened Condensed Milk

Heat oven to 350. Grease 13 x 9 x 2 with shortening. Mix 2 cups flour, brown sugar, and butter in large bowl with fork until crumbly. Press firmly in bottom of pan.

Mix remaining ingredients in same bowl, spoon onto crust and spread evenly.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely, about 45 minutes.

Smucksville

2011-11-16T06:18:00.000-08:00

My funny bones got a big, huge tickle this morning. I'm out there on the porch at around 5 a.m. this morning and I said to myself Holy Smucksville, darn cold out here today; then I giggled and thought about the word smucksville.

I once had the spellcheck turned on the computer but everytime I went to type the word smucksville it would try to correct me because obviously smucksville to them is not a word. Well, little do they know. In the language of this writer, smucksville is a word.

When I came back inside, I decided I should check out the word smucksville on the computer. Way more giggles came. I selected 'images' and as if by magic or remote control up pop images of John Prine. Notations of this blog (oh my stomach hurts from thinking this thing over).

Smucksville came to be because I did not want to use curse words in front of the grandkids. Hence, smucksville was invented.

There are several places/towns/cities that end in ville. Fogelsville where Sue Umbrella resides. Martinsville where Peaceful Waters resides. Barkerville, a place just north of me - once was a gold rush town. Lots of villes.

Perhaps, today when you all are rushing around doing your business and something goes a miss for you - think of smucksville - then giggle :)

Have a wonderful, smucksville day!

Credit for some words (but not smucksville) ~ John Prine

Winter Wonderland

2011-11-15T06:34:00.000-08:00

Well, some folks will call it a winter wonderland and it is if you are only looking at pictures! My word, we have had so much snow in such a short period of time. The shovelling is back breaking work on this tiny frame of mine. However, I'll get acquainted once again with old man winter and will be so happy when spring rolls around.

I feel for the animals when it snows heavy. There is not much food for them. We feed the birds - seed. Other animals such as deer, moose, and foxes - well, they have to get food on their own.

ah, shadows!

My friend, Jack - he never falls off his perch!

Sunrise

2011-11-13T10:58:00.000-08:00

A beautiful sunrise yesterday morning. About an hour after this picture was taken the white stuff started to fly. Holy snow smucksville did we get a lot of snow! That snow shovelling is hard work; I am out of shape - so it is good exercise for me.

During the hours spent snow shovelling I sang John Prine . . . humidity built the snowman, sunshine brought it down; Paradise and a few other tunes. I remembered it was Neil Young's birthday yesterday, so I sang Happy Birthday to him. Then, I giggled - just like I am doing now :)

And, speaking of John Prine - The Singing Mailman Delivers was delivered to the retired mailman, my brother. He was so happy - he had to telephone me and thank me for giving him the OhBoy telephone number. I know The Singing Mailman Delivers has a very special meaning to Wesley.

This morning there was more snow to shovel, god help me. There was no beautiful sunrise, no Happy Birthday song and no Prine - Noisemaker was out there shovelling with me. He makes enough noise for both of us ;)

Yet, Another Day In Paradise

2011-11-07T14:56:00.000-08:00

ah, a young John Prine. I was reading on line Billboard Magazine only because I wanted to find out from the charts where The Singing Mailman Delivers charted at. Billboard is a music trade magazine, it lists all the charts. I was pleased that The Singing Mailman Delivers debut at #4 on folk albums...way to go - Johnny!

This photo of a very young John Prine - I give thanks to Anne Prine. John's first wife. Geez, he has been married more times than my friend Al. I sent a postcard to Al to notify him The Singing Mailman Delivers was being released - gave the 1-800-521-2112 for OhBoy/Music Fans Direct and then added - how many times you wedded up - how old are you going to be? Put the lipstick on and smacked it with a kiss!

Al and I have been friends for years. I met Al when I was employed at the Pulp Mill - in my younger years...of course, not that age has cursed me - lol.

Thank you to the new followers, welcome to my blog. I hope you enjoy!

BoO!

2011-10-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Spook Day! There are many spooks on the mountain side especially early in the morning when I go out on to the porch - yikers! It is so dark out there - just me and the stars. Sometimes if I am on the side of luck I see shooting stars and yes, I do make a wish.

Yesterday we drove around the mountain side; oh my. . .we went up and up and up, good lord. The scenic view of the mountains reminded me of Waltons Mountain. I could hear the kids laughing and Gramma and Grampa Walton bantering like that of skunkeye jan and Florida John :) We had to turn back as there is much snow up there, I was worried we may get stuck and be stranded up there for the rest of the winter. It was a pleasant day.

Had I had my thinking cap on, I would have remembered to take the camera along but I forgot to put my thinking cap on - unfortunately, I do that - just sometimes.

No, It is not potatoes!

2011-10-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

It is a small orange cake, decorated/piped butter cream (Duncan Hines) icing.

It is difficult to bake for Noisemaker and I - I have taken to baking - like me - small portions!

I was concern about the icing - how tub icing would stand up and last as compared to making ones' own buttercream icing.

This morning, I tried - EGADS. I did not have a piping bag so I thought I would use a baggie. Do Not ever try that. The bag broke - I had icing near all over the kitchen. I transfered the icing (what was left) to a ziplock bag; much better.

As best as my wrists will work, I piped, The result was good, Duncan Hines worked, I am impressed. I actually wrote to Duncan Hines and asked the question - would the icing stand up and last once it has been piped. They said yes, and I agree.

Not many times do I or would I have a recommendation for a product, for this I do recommend, it is a good product. oh teehee - it is like John Prine! Good lord, I bet he never thought he would rank right up there with Duncan Hines Buttercream Icing!

The Singing Mailman Delivers

2011-10-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

My driving postal delivery person, delivered The Singing Mailman Delivers today. She said to me, you have goodies delivered today, I knew it was going to be John Prine. We chatted, she left on her route, I opened the postal box. I saw the hand writtened, padded envelope - oh my - OhBoy! I yelled out, I GOT JOHN PRINE TODAY! I had other envelopes and mail to deal with so I shoved them in my pockets and got to work with the pressing issue at hand, John Prine.

I opened the envelope right there at the mailbox, talking to myself - ohboy, ohboy, it is my John Prine Day - oh Johnny, oh Johnny.

...then, I heard a voice - who are you talking to? It was the lunatic next door Chris. I packed my envelopes and started to run back home - I did replied - I am talking to no one. I have my cleats on now, I can run fast. I raced down the driveway, Prineing all the way...oh what fun - it is my Prine Day today!

I opened the door to home and yelled out, I got my parcel. I am so excited, the t-shirt will fit perfect - I looked at the mailman. I, am again, reminded of my brother - our Prine time. It is wonderful feeling.

With some fluttering and paradise wavin' - I do managed to get myself together. I sit to listen to

the Singing MAILMAN Delivers.

I am impressed - how could I not be. I have followed John Prine for many years.

Songs that took me - Angel From Montgomery was the first. I like how John's voice is lessened on the 'an' of angel - and heavy on the 'gel'.

Dogs, are the biggest fright to a mailman - a postman - a letter carrier. Yep, right next to the corporation they work for :) Remember folks it is not dogs that frighten up letter carriers - it is the people that own them. There is no greater love than the love of a dog, the love a dog is unconditional.

Hank Williams - Hey Good Lookin/Jambalaya - these two songs are have always rang true to me. We sang them with I was a young girl. To hear John Prine sing them, well - it is near tear time for me. Paradise ~ John Prine

I am glad that the wife of John Prine, Fiona does make him do household chores. According to the notes of John Prine - "by the way, I found these tapes because my wife Fiona made me clean out our garage the last time we moved!

Thank you, Fiona and John Prine. Also the first wife of John Prine, Anne.

The Singing Postman Did Not Deliver Today

2011-10-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

teehee, I do not have a Singing Postman to deliver the mail. It is a lady and she does not sing Prine. However, she does know of him, thanks to yours truly.

Yesterday afternoon I received a telephone call from a retired letter carrier - no, it was not John Prine - it was my brother, Wesley. Oh my, we had such a nice conversation - it was really heart warming for me. We yapped endlessly about John Prine. Wesley actually had people on his route that called him The Singing Mailman. Yeppers, he sang Prine. Wesley commented on how he had much in common with John Prine. I laughed and replied - well eh, if you had millions :) would you share with me!

Wesley and I made a deal that when John Prine comes to Vancouver again, he would take the Greyhound - I would leap off from the mountain side - meet up with him and travel south Greyhounding to Vancouver. I told Wesley, you know what - we would wait out back after the show, I would take you in to meet John, I would take a picture. *paradise wavin* I find the words so exciting. Actually, the first time I saw John Prine was with my brother, Wesley. I think it was May 1978. John's wife, at the time was Anne - they sat the row in front of us - they - meaning - that big tall brother of his and some other folks. I spoke with the tall one, I asked him what was on his leg, it was a backstage pass. Geez, too bad I was not as bold as I am today. I should have leached on to him - leaped right on up to that tall guy and told him - take me back stage!

So, John Prine this is directed to you - please come to Vancouver, British Columbia. Let the retired postman and his sister do Prineville - together - once again.

2011-10-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

Each year our community holds a fall dinner - it is a major event for the folks that live on the mountain side. I could not attend this year because I have my step son visiting. Yes, I could have bought a ticket for him, Noisemaker, and I to attend but I felt time would be better spent visiting with him than flapping my lips at the dinner :)

The dinner menu is roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, several vegetable dishes, buns, pickles, and of course, dessert.

This is my contribution - a carrot cake.

The leaves and sprinkles - well, thank you my Winnipeg Friend - Janis Ferguson.

Jason Wilber

2011-10-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit - James R. Martin Photography

James R. Martin has captured the best picture of Jason Wilber. Five star it is!

In my opinion, this picture relates just what a fine gentleman Jason is.

A very nice Sunday morning picture. Thank you James R. Martin Photography!

Just Saying. . .

2011-10-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

I wonder sometimes, if I ever should have moved to the mountain side. I am starting to question.

With the recent criminal functions that have started to rise up ~ I am having thoughts/doubts.

I honestly can say, I miss the fact that I cannot jump in a vehicle and go to the grocery store to pick up a gallon of milk.

I think I best look at the livestock section of the newspaper - Cow For Sale.

The mountain side is a beautiful place. The four walls that we call our home, I do try to make it that, a home.

~~~Trying to mail out some Prine suncatchers - oops - totally forgot I needed a declaraction because I am sending to the USA. I have three declarations coming on Monday. Our letter carrier will deliver.

Perhaps, she will also deliver - The Singing Mailman Delivers!

ah, the Witch of the North

2011-10-18T15:22:00.000-07:00

Love this photo, can you see the sparkles and fire aglow...I am waiting for the witch to take flight :) south!

Geez, I have not even started typing about John Prine and viola there comes the Paradise Wave. Seems like the new cd - The Singing Mailman Delivers - is being shipped out. I, so wish I could have stuck it out to get the big combo - the cd, the ball cap, t-shirt and ...... but I could not. My brother, Wesley is so going to love this. As mentioned, Wesley is a retired letter carrier. He sings Prine. I could not rile him up on the telephone so I sent him a postcard (you know to keep all those mail carriers employed). I sent another postcard to a friend of mine. I like to keep my northern friends informed of new Prine releases - well, not just new releases - anything Prine will do.

...but dreaming just comes natural...

just like that paradise wave

My so called law abiding Noisemaker still has not come to peace with the law. I think I should be calling him a renegade or a bandit -- actually plain stupid would put the icing on the cake!

Oh alas, such is life and life goes by too quickly. I am thankful for prine friends and that Zuckenburger (sp) guy for inventing Facebook. geez, you'd think I could get that guys name right, but eh, ...six million, seven hundred thousand, and thirty-three lights on

you think someone could take the time to sit down and listen to the words of my song...

John Prine

Miss and Mash

2011-10-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

It is almost time for spook time. We do not receive any trick or treaters on the mountain side, I keep hoping. I buy candy and bag it up (about 10 bags), no one ever comes down the driveway. I loved dressing up for Halloween - where I grew up - the temperature was not accomodating to trick or treaters, hence - you dressed warm.

As a teenager, with Halloween - I remember one time - my girlfriends and I bought some eggs. We stood near the highway and egged up every vehicle that went by. Ah, but what goes around comes around.

One time, I was not quick enough to climb the fence after we had egged up a vehicle, the woman, stopped and ran after me. She grabbed me from 3' up on to the fence. She said, clean my fn car off - I will let you go. I did, she sent me off and running - like Lesley Gore! :)

Last night I had a delightful dream. I dreamed of John Prine. He was giving me his autograph. My Mom was with me. Mr. Prine had to leave quick, seemed like he wanted a disguise - so my Mom pulled out a gray haired wig...John put it on and away he went. End of dream. The autograph of John Prine was on something that was blue and white, I cannot quite remember. I remember placing it in my pocket, on the left.

...I leaned of my left leg in the parking lot dirt...

...you must be Daddy's little pumpkin, I can tell by the way you roll...

Tom - The Turkey!

2011-10-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

This is how I spend my time on the mountain side - creating crafts that amuse me. teehee The feathers are from a grouse that a fox (we think) caught. I washed them up, dry them, and viola! Tom, The Turkey.

Who would have ever thought I was once a city girl with gainful employment - now I make turkeys and listen to John Prine.

John Prine is not the only artist I listen too. Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen, I tune up to. They are all seeing their years gracefully. oh teehee, me too! Well, hell - if do not look at the bags under eyes, I am in sure shot for the age of 40! aREN'T i!

Happy 65th Birthday ~ John Prine

2011-10-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit - James Martin

Oh, John Prine you must be a happy man to have live to 65 years, he turns 65 tomorrow. I am wondering though...do you collect a pension at 65? Noisemaker did, he is a couple of months older than you. I am 10 years younger than my Noisemaker and you. I am quite a Spring Chicken - I regularly take to dancin' on the porch, tap shoes I do not have - but I invent dance.

The wild animals (not human) are very fond of your songs/words. Not a day goes by that I do not sing to them or talk to them some Prine words that have been imbedded in my mind. It is a treasure, it is golden.

Happy 65th Birthday to our Johnny

Geez, I hope I remember everyone - Florida John, Reeda Buresh, Donna Laurent Palmer, Janis Ferguson, Chad Dunn, Mark William Sannes, Sue Ronis, RuthAnn Ogg Peacock, Charlene Stevenson, Bev Owens Thompson, Chuck Micallef, Amy Mullins, Earl D. Brogan~ my brother - Wesley Traxler - the retired letter carrier and myself, Beverlee Traxler.

Happy Birthday John Prine

B. A. (John Prine Fan) Traxler

Beverlee Ann Traxler

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-10-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

I cooked up the turkey dinner yesterday - a great dinner it was! Everything I cooked turned out; the gravy was excellent. I love the leftovers - you nibble at will. I like to eat when I am hungry not only because food is there. Today I made hot turkey sandwiches. Slice of buttered bread, turkey, and potatoes - heated up in the oven. Topped with a generous scoop of homemade gravy! eh, I think even John Prine would like that meal!

I have much to be thankful for - although sometimes my stress level says no! I am thankful to be alive, thankful for friends and folks that care and know I care.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Rodeo Candle

2011-10-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

It is complete! The picture is not great. I love the additon of the cowboy hat. Giddy Up!

Pen Holder

2011-10-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

The original product looks better than the photo I have taken, trust me. These are made out of pine beetle trees - hence the formation of blue. Not to worry that pine beetles are in the wood anymore - nah, they have moved east and south! It is Canada's gift!

The Singing Mailman Delivers ~ John Prine

2011-10-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

How Exciting! I am so Prine thrilled, I think I may have to latch on to a depends. I love the titled of this new cd - reminds me so much of my brother - a retired mailman - who did sing on his route, he sang the songs of John Prine. My Noisemaker got me this for my birthday - it is near two months away - but eh, who cares - it is John Prine!

Spoke with a nice gentleman at Oh Boy - John was his name. Oh, I had to flutter a bit, but it was not John Prine. I was actually hoping to talk to Nick - ah, Nick/John does not matter - the double cd and t-shirt will be coming via Canada Post.

My Noisemaker now has his legal issues dealt with. All he has to deal with is me - I have a good supply of flingers stocked up and yes, I will use. Knock some sense in his head when he wanders off into parts unknown. Like Linda did when she went to Mars. Linda was the name of Noisemakers' first wife - she flew on to Mars on a regular basis.

Of all my happy notes today, I must post that tomorrow will be 8 years since my hero past away, my Dad. We had our disagreements - for sure, but I miss him very much and I will always love him. He will always be my hero. Bert Traxler ~ March 1920 - October 2005

Robert J. Wiersema

2011-10-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

I saw this author on our television station (GlobalTV) and was highly impressed. This is not your typical book on Bruce Springsteen. Wiersema took 14 Bruce Springsteen songs and made 14 chapters for his book, titled Walk Lake A Man. I will have to check for this at our local library. You can read more on Robert Wiersema at www.robertwiersema.com

Lydia

2011-09-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

My dearest Lydia hit the dirt. Donald was not to be found.

I picked her up and put her to the woodshed.

Blasted wind put Lydia face down, laid to rest. Only to rise up and stand erect in the woodshed.

She will return, next spring. Donald will be waiting.

...they made love in mountains, they made love in the streams

they made love in the valleys, they made love in their dreams

but when they were finished there was nothing to say

'cause mostly they made love from ten miles away...

Donald and Lydia ~ John Prine

Another day in paradise . . .

2011-09-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

Mountain Ash Tree

So beautiful with the brilliant red berries. Very windy it is has been on the mountain side for three days now. Several power outages we have had, but - thank god, not for long.

Lydia, is trying her best to take the wind - I actually thought Donald maybe paid her a visit because her pendant was wrapped up in her hair; her hat was in the neighbors' yard! I spoke with her and asked the question ...was Donald near by...she put her head down and replied - no, he has not visited me all summer.

Poor Lydia, she will have to be taken down to rest for the winter months, I do hope Donald can at least come and dance with her before the white stuff starts a-flyin'.

Her request for the dance with Donald - In Spite Of Ourselves!

Way to go, Lydia!

Let There Be Peace

2011-09-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

Such a noisy morning I have had. Not due to Noisemaker but due to my stereo blasting neighbor down the road. I was so mad this morning; I telephoned the police.

I went outside around 5:20 this morning only to hear boom, boom, boom. I tried, calmly to sit and have my morning cigarette and coffee. I thought to myself this is enough for me, I have had enough of the blasting noise. I waited till near 7:30 a.m. and telephone the police detachment that handles our mountain side jurisdiction.

I explained my situation and an officer was to return my call. He did, a Constable Ferguson; we had a nice conversation. I explained to him I have nothing against music, I listen to it all the time. I was going to start in on John Prine but decided that perhaps would be too much for the Constable to handle :) The issue I have is why does it have to be played blasting at 5 in the morning or 2 in the afternoon. I cannot hear myself think and I do not/will not accept this as neighborly behavior.

The police officer says to me they shall be telephoning my blasting neighbor, I replied well, you can't he does not have a telephone. The fine Ferguson officer tells me he shall pay my neighbor a vist. I thanked him for his time; that I appreciated it. I hope the coming week will bring some peace, some peace and quiet.

Beautiful autumn day on the mountain side.

Geez

2011-09-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

Geez, I have no photo to post and I truly do not have any good news to post - but I will think of something good to post as I type on.

My Noisemaker has received a new temporary name - crim. Unfortunately, he felt the need to parlay with the criminal content of the mountain side. I do not want to go into details, it is far beyond my realm. I will never and I won't ever understand it; but I will live through it. I have never, in my short life time, ever felt so disgusted, red faced, and wondered - who is this person? I actually leaned on my left leg - in the parking lot dirt - but, it was the driveway... (I knew I could Prine :) - still, in total disgust. You think when you live with a person for near 25 years - yep - you would know them. In my case, not so. It is a sad, fallen situation; but life goes on - I Prine, I Neil and I Springsteen!

Oh - and, Happy Birthday to Bruce Springsteen (the hunk) - tomorrow! Tomorrow will also be 6 years since I came to the mountain side. Unbelievable - thank you for the internet and my John Prine Friends - you all have gold - gold inside of you.

A Prine Moment

2011-09-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit - jpshrine.org

How exciting it is!

Reminds me of my brother, a retired letter carrier. He sang on his route, too.

I chuckled at the postage stamp - John Who. . .

eh, Neil

2011-09-16T11:56:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Chris Young - Canadian Press

Juno Awards - Toronto, Ontario

I do not know if Chris Young is related to Neil; could be Neil's nephew. This photo is pure Canadian. You have Neil and the red coated RCMP! eh, how Neil can some folks get.

I wish I could get a good close up of this picture because it appears to me Neil is wearing something around his neck that clearly resembles John Prine pendants made by Charlene Stevenson. Or perhaps, Neil received the Order of Canada Medal - hell - who knows - but "Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere" (Neil Young).

2011-09-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

I do not know who built the structures - note the ducks wake.

Lays Chips

2011-09-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

These are the best chips ever! The right amount of salt blankets every chip. As Janis mentioned, those folded ones - the best ever! They are dippers. So great when you smuck your lips together with a Lays double, oh god - the salt on your lips - love it.

Sad part is I am out of Lays Chips. Tuesday we go grocery shopping to the village. They are on sale 4 bags for $10.00 ~ I best purchase 8 - winter in coming :)

To The Working Folks

2011-09-03T14:27:00.000-07:00

Take a day off - Happy Labor Day! Labor Day always reminds me of my Dad - he sided with labor - til the day he died.

It is sad to think of how the union has changed, in some regards the executive of unions are no different than that of executive management. All lined their silk pockets with the jingle of the working class.

I have had my day with management; I was on the 'staff' side of management. I sided with the working folks of the pulp and paper mill. I can recall at the mill, the workers went on strike, we (staff) were advise of how to approach a picket line - (my Dad said, join 'em - lol). One day as I was rolling into work, I was stopped at the picket line. My l969 Volvo did not have a drivers' side working window lever - so I opted to do what management told me - speak. I opened my door and step outside - spoke to the striking person. We had a nice conversation about my window not operating. By the time, I got to mill site - I was taken aside to the office of boss. Boss wonder what I was doing on the picket line - I explained - what you told me to do - speak...I cannot speak through my window, so I opened the door to speak - Boss man, my window lever does not work. Boss Man/Management had binoculars staring through the big management offices looking down at me.

Hell, had I known that to begin with I could have toe tapped, sang Prine - gave them a show!

Happy Labor Day!

...and, Chad - hope your weekend is special, very special. It has been years since Chad, his brother, and his Dad have had a trip together. They are going to Washington DC for a baseball game! Enjoy - hope your team wins!

...another day on the mountain side...

2011-08-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

I have been busy, busy today - bit of lip flappin' and baking. As I have mentioned, I bake for the community bingo - today I made lemon cupcakes. I had purchased some of that tub icing - oh lordy, never buy that low fat type - it is not worth it. It is more of a glaze than icing. Icing needs some giddy up and go. The low fat icing you cannot even place sugars or decoratives on it - they will not stick. My cupcakes will pass but they are certainly not the best I have made. I do love the nice little, decorative liners - the little things just make it all seem bigger.

My little garden is coming along, but it is running out of summer. We did not see much of hot weather this year and the garden did suffer. I will probably end up bringing my tomatoe plants into the house, they have lots of tomatoes on them, but they have to get bigger. My green onions did very well this year. I took some to my neighbors - they were pleased to receive. My friend, Audrey, she asked me - did you grow these? I replied, yes but in pots because I do not do worms - she laughed. Good lip flappin' time!

I also took some potatoes for my neighbors, Bernie and Olga who live down the road from us. Yesterday, we were in the village, grocery shopping. I needed potatoes, I generally buy the 5 lb. bag. Well, go figure this; the 5 lb. bag is $7.99 and the 20 lb. bag is $5.99. Makes no sense to me. I purchased the 20 lb. bag and took half of the bag for Bernie and Olga. More good lip flappin' time!

Now, I'm fairly well done for today, I have corn on the cob for dinner tonight - oh, it is so sweet - yummy; I like it with real butter and salt.

I am off to the porch (for those who do not know, I do not smoke cigarettes in the house - hence porch time). Sometimes I dance and sing on the porch - it can become quite the activity center, my activity center. I sing Prine, do the hula and some fancy foot work. If the deer come to visit, I talk with them. hmmm...seems like my lips are not on the side of zipped up while I am out of the porch.

60 Years

2011-08-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today, my Mom and Dad would have been wedded up for 60 years. Can you believe it! Good grief, sometimes I think if I live to 60 - I'd be doing great!

As with any marriage, they had there ups and downs - but they stuck together. My Mom always said for their 50th wedding anniversary she wanted to have a new wedding ring set. Unfortunately, my Mom never lived to see her 50th wedding anniversary. We had a family celebration on their 40th wedding anniversary; both my Mom and Dad, I think, felt this was their marriage - friends and family gathered around them to celebrate their years of wedded bliss. We went out for supper to Mom's favorite restaurant and returned to their home and continued to celebrate. I purchased a special cake, a wedding cake they never had, Mom loved it.

My Mom and Dad were married at the Justice of the Peace in northern B.C - Prince George. My Uncle sported them a room at the local hotel for their wedding night. My parents did not have a lot of moola back then. However, my Dad worked hard, he was a plumber/pipefitter by trade - he travelled much. My Mom toiled to keep our happy home - happy, safe, and secure.

I miss them both, I will always love them and I am so proud to be their daughter.

Egads

2011-08-23T13:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, our seasonal neighbors' friend brought a crate of a salmon in appreciation of Noisemaker and I looking after their abode while they are back in the city. I do enjoy fish, however - I am not good at touching it. The salmon that Dave brought was near 10 lbs. - it was cut in half so I have to assume it was a 20 lb. salmon. Dave is a commercial fisherman, nets along the mouth of the Fraser River in British Columbia.

As mentioned, I am not good with fish - lord, I looked at the beautiful piece of fish and thought I cannot let this go. I must think of beef, the cows that run wild...right. It is only beef. I put on a pair of fresh rubber gloves and okay, salmon, I am going to do this. I placed my gloved hand (MJ in fish apparel), yikers, but I can do it. I proceed. No singing, just a knife and a fish.

Oh god, it is beef - I am making stew. I do beef, I can do this salmon. Noisemaker refuses to help me. Well, fine - watch me - I will do this. I did. I cross that line, I did a salmon. What I have not mentioned here is the salmon came to me de-headed and guts out. Had it came whole, I would have ran. I do not do worms, nor do I gut. I have no use for slugs, reptiles, or snakes.

I Prine.

Amy - Bayfielding Prine!

2011-08-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

Photos, thank you - Amy.

Photo Top - John Prine - Solo

Photo Bottom - of course, It is Paradise!

Prine - Bayfield

2011-08-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

So they all Prined on... I have yet to learn how to make a picture bigger when it does not belong to me, but whatever. Here they Prine. Left to Right - Dan, Minnesota Mark, Pamela (she is with Dan and I do not think she has hit her head on the mirror), Nicolas Faddy (The Captain), directly below him Amy Mullins (The Assistant Captain), then Kathy Carroll, above her Janis Ferguson (skunkeyejan), Charlene, and Andy. Geez, hope I got that right!

Photo - Thank You - Janis Ferguson - Skunkeyejan

Toe Tappin', Head Noddin', John Prinein'...

2011-08-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

ah, finally we have finished the wood. My word, that is such a big job and the work is so hard, exhausting to me. However, now we are set up for when the white stuff starts a-flying and by the temperature outside this morning, it will not be long in coming. I must get the Prine music in order for Joe Paradise, then call him, and Harley ride - yippee! How exciting that will be for me.
I have to assume my Prine friends are near to Bayfield. They will all be meeting up tonight; such a good time they will have. All lip flappin', toe tappin', John Prinein'! I wish I could be there. Tomorrow, I shall doll myself in preparation for the Prine concert tomorrow night. I'll be doing the paradise wave, toe tappin', head noddin', and of course, John Prinein'.

3 Women ~ Cheers, Beers, and Prine.

2011-08-18T12:55:00.000-07:00

Photo: MaryBelle, yours truly, MaryBelle's daughter, Sarah.

What a great time we had! Good lord, I have not laughed, sanged, and danced so much in a long, long time. We walked on the wild side and enjoyment filled the air. We sang every song from Abba to the Zombies. I know there were moments when Noisemaker just looked at us in pure amazement and asked himself...why me, lord, why me. Had he been able to get a word in edge wise - now that would have been an amazement. Three women, beer, and cds! Oh yes, and West 54th!

Excitement and enjoyment will be filling the air very soon in Bayfield, Wisconsin. My Prine friends will be flocking in; should all be meeting up tomorrow. I'll be thinking of them and wishing I could be there too ~ and, I will be in full Prine spirit. Cheers, Beers, and Prine!

I Met Joe Paradise

2011-08-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

My new friend, Joe Paradise - the woodman.

Such a delightful day it has been, I finally got to meet Joe Paradise. He brought us enough wood to last us through the long, long winter. I spent four hours this morning stacking, endless stacking. I do take regular rest periods, smucksville stacking is hard work. On one of my breaks today, this lil bit of a John Prine song came wavin' into my brain. I laughed and changed the words around to:

...so gather 'round me all my wood stacking peers,

I'm gonna tell ya a story about Beverlee - the wood stacking years.

Then, I giggled as I am now!

Mr. Paradise showed up about six hours later. I raced right down and said Hello, Joe Paradise - thank you for bringing me such good wood. We chatted about wood - I was more interested in talking Prine, but I had to be polite. Ah, here comes my chance, Joe, I said - do you know a folk singer by the name of John Prine? He says, the name sounds familiar, but no - can't say I have. I said, Joe he wrote two songs about you - one called Paradise and the other called Safety Joe but, Joe do not worry, I will get these for you. I will call you and you can come back and pick them up. Idle chatter happens and then Joe tells me the greatest - he has a Harley! I tell you, I near went into flutter overtime. Oh Joe, I said, you are on my bucket list - I have always wanted to ride on a Harley - what kind of Harley do you have? Do you think you could give me a ride, I'll make you Prine, I can bake. Smucksville, I was so excited. Joe tells me he has a 2009 Softtail. If my memory serves me (not sure it will), but I think Crusher had a softtail - can anyone confirm?

After Noisemaker and I complete the wood stacking and I get the cds arranged for Joe Paradise, I'm going to call him up. He will come over with his harley and a helmet and take me for a ride. Geez and smucksville, I feel the Crusher looking in on me, big time. I explained to Joe, we do not have to go fast or far, Joe laughed. He laughed quite a bit at me, a good hearty laugh we shared. Joe never expected to be delivering wood to a home, find out he is on a bucket list, and be introduced to John Prine!

Can you believe it, soon I will be going to ride on a Harley, now the question - what is the correct Prine song to have in my mind. I think Lake Marie. I have the Bruce song - Gypsy Biker - I will throw Heart of Gold in there by Neil - you know between John and Bruce.

Crusher, we will be riding safe. Thank you for looking in on me - much appreciated.

Rodeo Candles

2011-08-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of the Rodeo Candles. I make them using unwanted and abused fence posts. I cut up the fence posts to 8 or so inches. Drill a hole to the size of a tea light for the top. A farrier brings me horseshoes which he receives from a ranch down the road. I clean the horseshoes with a solution of vinegar and water, then spray varnish. Attach with twine the shoe to the fence post base. These are not finished, as yet. The bottom of the candle base I place rope around. I have to have Noisemaker do up the lacing on the rope (so it does not fray). Viola! A Rodeo Candle.

Joe Paradise, he could not make it over on Tuesday - we was busy and behind. He arrives here tomorrow morning. I laughed when I spoke with him; I wanted to talk John Prine; I'm thinking Safety Joe and Paradise. I will wait with my Prine lip flappin' until tomorrow.

Noisemaker and I have had a very difficult, trying week on the mountain side. However, it will pass - trying times always do. It is the good we must remember and treasure.

Oh yes, and some of Prine friends will be Bayfielding soon. Prine in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Unfortunately, I was not able to send them their supply of depends. Things just got away or behind on me. Such a fine, Prine delight they will have. I get to much excitement and find myself all in a Prine flutter thinking about them. I hope they will be able to meet John Prine. Some have had the pleasure of meeting John Prine, Jason Wilber, and David Jacques previously - some have not. I am hoping the ones that have not; have the pleasure this time in Bayfield! ah heck, I should advise/educate them up, you know I have experience in the field - geez, did I tell ya?

Another Day ...on the mountain side

2011-08-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

Devils Food Chocolate Cupcakes!

So cute - they have cupcake picks. I baked these this morning for our weekly bingo game at the community hall. I am forever baking, I enjoy to bake and it is for the community to which I reside.

The last few days have been a wild, wild time on the mountain side. I will not go into details, I will state my Noisemaker lacked in the brain and now has to face up for his actions. A sad, fallen situation indeed.

I have, but only once, been acquainted with law enforcement. I was returning home from a dentist appointment and was heavy on the gas peddle going through a school zone. I was stopped for speeding but I could not speak, my mouth was frozen. I handed the officer my insurance/license - he in turn, handed me a ticket. When I got home I read the ticket, stated I was a 'male'. I took exception to that and fought it through the court system. I won - the judge ruled in my favor. The judge told the RCMP officer to make certain to which sex he is issuing a ticket to - cannot you tell this is a female? After court, the police officer came to me and apologize for his error. I told him, no harm done and I know you have learned something from this. I hope everyone learns from the mistakes.

...some humans ain't human, some people ain't kind...

John Prine

Cupcake picks and liners - thank you skunkeyejan

Paradise

2011-08-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

Too funny, on this coming Tuesday, Paradise is coming to pay me a visit - Mr. Paradise that is. Joe Paradise, our new woodman. I cannot wait to start up a conversation with him, I will be lip flappin' Prine in my finest form - and then I will giggle. Noisemaker will shake his head and think to himself, why lord, why. I will giggle even more. Oh, the Prine thrill of it all.

It has been a busy week here on the mountain side. We had a long weekend and our local fishing derby; many seasonal folks enjoyed the beauty of the mountain side. I have been heavy duty in lip flappin' department and I think I have about another two weeks to go! Happy Days!

My seasonal neighborette arrived yesterday - oh my - we sat and have a few beers last night - and giggled, it was much fun for me. She has a slight Prine - thanks to yours truly. She was the neighborette that offer me to ride with her to Vancouver when I was going to see John Prine in October 2009. Hope you folks all know about that, I am quite certain I have told you; but if not - let me know; I can repeat the story very well!

...and Daddy won't you take me back to Mulhenberg County down by the green river where Paradise lays...John Prine
~paradise wavin', toe tappin', head noddin', John Prinein'~

The Motherlode, I Hit!

2011-07-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

Good lord, I did hit the motherlode of fence posts today. I walk several times a week and have always noticed this big pile of used up fenced posts. Today, I stopped by and inquired - may I purchased some. Heck, they gave them to me for free. All they said was would I make them a candle; to which I will.

The pile sported me a 12 foot fence post; fencepostville, that will make me 18 candles. I am so delighted.

Rodeo Candles are made from used fence posts, cut to around 8 inches. In the front of the wood base, tied to it - is a horseshoe. I receive the horseshoes from a farrier (a person who changes the shoes from a horse). By the time I received the horseshoes, they are full of mud/woodchips/and sh*t. I clean them with a solution of coarse vinegar and water, scrub 'em up, and then place a coat of varnish on them. I then take twine and lace up the horseshoe to the wood base of the candle. Oh geez, I forgot to mention Noisemaker does the hole drilling for the tea candle that is set in at the top of the wood base. Does this all make sense?

I do not own a Rodeo Candle myself, I make them and give them away. However, I am thinking now I could sing Paradise/John Prine - make Rodeo Candles and make myself a homebase business.

Calla Water Lily

2011-07-29T13:23:00.000-07:00

We have many blossoming callas creekside, they are beautiful. When we lived in the lower mainland, I bought these for the fish pond at $35.00 a blossom. Now, it is my creekside and my flowers. Busy weekend here, our annual fishing derby. Lots of seasonal folks - you sort of have to help them along because they are city folks and rightly or lefty do not know what they are doing. Not that I am the resident expert, but I do my best to guide them along.

Happy Fishing to all - May you all Prine!

Yep, he (John Prine) should be here for the derby, I could have Noisemaker whip him out in the Lund, because I do not drive a boat. I would hope (oh god) that John does do worms, because I do not do that either. I only place the fishing line in the water, it has to be complete with a worm (another - oh god), and hook - then I hope for the best. I have yet to catch anything. I believe that is due to the fact the fish have not heard much Prine here! :)

The Squirrel

2011-07-27T15:58:00.000-07:00

Female, very territorial, and like most females - sweet!

The Mountain

2011-07-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

We had to go to the city yesterday, here is a photo coming down the mountain. It was not a very nice day.

This one, is coming back up the mountain, home.

My word, it is a very long day going to the city. We were up at 4 a.m. and on the highway at 5:45 a.m. Went to two box stores, that is about all I am good for, I am not a shopper. Noisemaker, on the other hand, he loves to shop! He loves to travel up and down every aisle. Sometimes, I sit a spell, sit anywhere I can find to sit. Yesterday, I sat on a beautiful leather chair in the big box store, I sported my John Prine shirt; and rocked to Paradise. I am quite certain some folks that walked by thought I was some reject from a mental institution, but I did not care - I enjoyed my rest. Spent way to much money, but was able to have french fries, geez, I love french fries. Today, I am very tired - but no problem, I'll rebound and come back stronger than a super nova!

Steve Goodman

2011-07-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday - Steve Goodman

July 25th, 1948

September 20th, 1984

Love your music, especially Rainbow Road and Yellow Coat.

The Mushroom

2011-07-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

ah, the perfect mushroom . . .

Found this mushroom early this morning, was not there yesterday just sprouted up overnight. We have quite an assortment of mushrooms, we opt not to utilize them.

Happy Birthday, Noisemaker - got him the cutest birthday card. It has a picture of a beer on the front and when you open it up its says ... Happy Birthday - it's what's for dinner!

Cheers, Beers, and Prine - Happy 65th

Mel and Collie

2011-07-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

I am deep in thought today, some sad - but trying to get on the sunny side. I did sing today, I sing everyday. I baked an angel food cake for Gary's birthday tomorrow. He will be 65, pension time! We will have the angel cake with industrial strength whipped cream and strawberries. I cooked a roast beef supper yesterday, with all the trimmings; hopefully tomorrow we will go to the beer parlor just up the highway from us for Pizza. I would enjoy that.

Yes, Noisemaker was born the same year as John Prine and George Bush. Good Grief! 1946. I am glad I still have Noisemaker around to make noise. I could/would not live here without him.

Too funny, today I tried to get to the cellar. My knee is badly bruised from the spill I took with the bear incident. I fought hard with that stupid latch, finally I said - Gary, I cannot do this, my knee is bruised from the bear, you must come directly and help me. He did. He actually loves that he can do the incidental things for me, it makes him feel special/wanted.

Tomorrow is also the day we placed my Mom in the ground. 12 years ago, to me it was yesterday. Same thing for our dog, when we laid him to rest. I remember so clearly, and I want to. I want to remember all the special days we had together, I do not want to forget.

...when jesus comes to claim us and says it is enough, the diamonds will be shining, no longer in the rough... John Prine

Our Home

2011-07-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Here is our little mountain side home. This is looking up from creekside. Sometimes it is Paradise ~ sometimes it is hell on earth. . .

Noisemaker is not up to speed today; he had a tooth removed this morning - he is not yapping too much nor imitating a lady bug :)

Lots of wildlife have visited us the last couple of days. A black bear - scared the heck out of me. It was so close, just off the porch steps. The bear did not bother us, it went its' merry way down towards the creek.

The mother deer are trying hard to keep the fawns in line. The fawns are so full of beans - they bounce around, run, and are very inquisitive. It is hard for me to watch when the mother deer is trying to teach the baby how to jump a fence. The fawn is still to young to jump. The other day, the little fawn was next to our steps, no Mom. I do not want to become involved with nature; but finally I went out and spoke to the fawn. Much to my relief, the mother came. I think sometimes they know my voice. God knows, I am always outside singing some song, usually a Prine tune. Too funny, the other day, I made new words to the song The Sound of Music. Hope you are sitting down -

...the hills are alive with the sound of John Prine

with songs he has sung for 40 years

the hills fill my heart with the sound of John Prine

my lips wants to taste several beers...

:) :) :)

My Wild Flowers

2011-07-17T08:13:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day on the mountain side today. My wild flowers send cheer to everyone! Special Prine cheers to Charlene - Happy Birthday. Happy Birthday to her husband, Bill and Happy Anniversary to both of them.

Have a Prine filled day - SLUAPO!

The Feather of a Bird

2011-07-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

The feather of a bird landed in on a string of a spider web, I just happened to be with camera and snapped this photo. For those that are dim in seeing where the feather is ~ top left. Some folks think it is a bird, no - it is a feather.

...Like Those Birds Of A Feather

They're Gatherin' Together

And Feeling Exactly Like You...

John Prine

Macaroni Salad (KD Style)

2011-07-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

I recently made this recipe (thank you Kraft) but because there is only Noisemaker and I, I cut it in half. Great recipe, easy, and it tastes KD Good!

2 packages Kraft Dinner Macaroni and Cheese

3/4 cup Miracle Whip Dressing (I prefer Hellmanns' - but whatever suits your fancy)

4 hard cooked eggs, peeled, chopped

1/2 cup finely chopped celery

1 small red pepper, finely chopped

1/2 cup sliced green onions

Prepare Kraft Dinners as directed on package. Add dressing, eggs, celery, and peppers; mix well. Sprinkle with onions.

Serve immediately - or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Makes 12 servings - 2/3 cup each.

Thank you - Kraft

A Day On The Mountain Side

2011-07-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

If anyone can identify this flower, well - you won't be winning a prize! Never had this before, the seeds must have blown in with the wind. The stem is fuzzy, much like a poppy. Under the orange blossom the 'about to blossom' buds are purple in color. The white buds you see in the photo are shasta daisys. They grow everywhere on the mountain side.

A funny thing happened with our wildlife friend, the squirrel. She comes to visit the feeder two/three/sometimes four times a day. Yesterday, Noisemaker left the door to the wood shed open. He walks in there and there is squirrel chewing on the big huge Rubbermaid container which is filled with bird seed. There is not much left of the container lid. I did contact Rubbermaid to see perhaps I could purchase a new lid - no answer as yet, but I just did that this morning. The squirrel came back this morning but Noisemaker did the sho-sho-sho ~ off with you dance. The squirrel maintained her balance.

Noisemaker is busy building a railing on the deck, we needed to do this for house insurance purposes. He currently has the rails built (toot, toot, toot) and is now working on the hand rail. I went to the store this morning and when I came home I noted the hand rail was up. Noisemaker was out in the aluminum shed, but I thought eh, give it a try. Yep, I tried it allright, holy smucksville it was not attached yet. So the post went flying off its' perch. Oh, luck was on my side, I was able to catch it before it hit the ground. Noisemaker comes around the corner and says, it was not attached as you have found out. I replied, yes, yes, it is not damaged. I made a leap for it and was able to snag it and then I giggled forever. Noisemaker shook his head. I laughed somemore.

Now for news of John - well, he is on vacation. I do not know where, but he isn't here on the mountain side. I cannot understand why. I could take him fishing. Although, I do not do worms and I do not clean fish - we would have a fine, Prine time. I could bake up brownies; do up supper in the slow cooker, bake bread - oh Johnny look what you are missing!

...and, then there were two...

2011-07-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, and they are Prinein'. Can't you hear 'em... It's Paradise! :)

The Poppy - In Blossom

2011-07-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

Beautiful and a beautiful day on the mountain side it is. In the cool of the morning I baked chocolate fudge cupcakes for our community Bingo tomorrow night. I bake twice a month for Bingo, my baking is a good seller and I enjoy to do it. Off to enjoy the sunshine!

The Poppy

2011-07-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

Giant Red Poppy

Managed to take the picture before the poppy losts its' pod. One of my many favorite flowers.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

...I knew a girl who was almost a lady

She had a way with all the men in her life

Every inch of her blossom in beauty

She was born on the 4th of July...

John Prine

Happy Canada Day - eh!

2011-07-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone on the mountain side is having a fine Canada Day - flags are wavin' - seems like I am the only one out there Paradise Wavin' - go figure?

Lydia, oh my - she was in a fine state this morning. Her jeans were down way below her knees. I am quite certain Donald paid a visit last night. Her hand had blown away, I searched forever this morning and finally found it. I secured her belt and tied up suspenders, tucked her shirt back in her jeans - and now I can only hope for the best. Damn - she had the biggest smile on her face this morning - she is one happy-go-lucky lady - she is lucky Lauruette!

Big rain last night, I do hope summer comes soon to the mountain side.

Tribute To A Dog

2011-06-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Today, marks six years since my dog, Yankee went on to dog heaven. I miss him very much, I love him dearly. He was very special to me.

Yankee was born epileptic; at eight months he was put on medication and the only time he would have a seizure was on Halloween. He could not stand the fireworks, the blasting noise. Yankee love to sing with me, his favorite song was Happy Birthday. We would sing that all the time, you could see the love in his big brown eyes.

We had Yankee for 15 years. I knew Yankee could not go on much longer. He was having difficulty getting up, his hips were not like they once were and his had quite a time just breathing.

Every Sunday, I would say to my honey do, Do - it is Sunday, I love you twice - I will always love you twice on Sundays. I still say that on Sundays.

Yankee had a million nick names - Do, Honey Bunny, My Little Boy - we also had our own language. I recall one day when I was blow drying my hair, Yankee was in the bathroom with me and of course, we were singing Happy Birthday. I was not paying any attention to my hair, I was busy singing. I looked up to the mirror and lord have mercy, I have wrapped my hair so tight around the brush, it isn't coming undone. I left the blow dryer and went downstairs to Noisemaker. Oh Noisemaker, look what I have done! He just shook his head. We tried to get the brush out, to no avail. I called the hairdresser and explained my situation. She said to come on in, she would remove the brush. Alas, all was well.

The photo is of a wooden box which contains Yankee's stuffola. Noisemaker made it. The white urn contains Yankee's ashes, he is surrounded by bunnies. He will always be my honey bunny.

Love you Yankee, we will meet again one day.

The Wooden Heart and The Angel

2011-06-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, on the mountain side we have many pine beetle trees. The beetles burrow in the trees and cause a faint blue tinge to the wood. When I see something to which has character, I keep it. Here is the Wooden Heart. Neil may have the Heart of Gold, but I have a wooden heart! Next to the heart is a wood knot that pop out of a log to which we had fell. Can you see the angel, she's a bit cracked, but she is there. She is my Angel From Montgomery (John Prine)

Make me an angel that flies from Montgomery

Make me a poster of an old rodeo

Just give me one thing that I can hold on to

To believe in this livin' is just a hard way to go

It's A Big Old Goofy World

2011-06-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

Bev, Mark, and Charlene having a great time at an eatery in Davenport. Mark, he is quite the character, well - all Priners and Prinettes are characters. We are unique, Prine Unique!
Photo - Reeda Buresh
(www.jpshrine.org)

From the reviews and pictures, what a great time everyone had. From food to John Prine and everything in between, a weekend to remember.

One day, I would much enjoy to meet all the Priners/Prinettes. One day when I win the lotto; we could have a big Prine wing ding. I like to dream.

Ultimate Prine Picture

2011-06-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

ah, the Ultimate Prine Picture - thank you Reeda Buresh {(www.jpshrine.org) - currently under construction}

John Prine, you wear a fine pair of boots. I have been told they are of harvest gold in color. Sounds to me like something Neil Young should be wearing. However, Neil - I do not believe is that acquainted with the find product of boots. Neils' feet, do not quite fit the same picture because there's more to picture than meets the eye. My, my - hey, hey.

What meets the eye here is not only the fine pair of boots, but the hemline of the jeans. For Prine perfection the hemline has to be over the ankle bone - it should line up perfectly with the line of where the body of the boot meets the heel of the boot.

In my opinion, these are comfortable toe tappin' boots.

Toe tappin'~ head noddin' ~ John Prinein' ~ SLUAPO

(So Let Us All Prine On)

Great Days!

Thank you, Reeda

Egads!

2011-06-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

Being as it is such a beautiful day here on the side of the mountain today, I decided to wash my outside windows. Not one of my favorite lady bug duties but it has to be done. I am challenged on the vertical side so I have to get the ladder out and go up and down it several times. I managed to do two windows and started to get a severe itch on my hands. For the love of god, I have broken out in hives. There must be something in the window washer cleaner I used that caused me this grief. Odd, I have not changed window cleaner for years, I have always used Windex. Needless to say, I had to cease and desist on the window cleaning for today. I will tackle it again tomorrow morning.

...broken hearts and dirty windows, make life difficult to see
that's why last night and this morning, always look the same to me...
John Prine

My Prine Garden

2011-06-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

My small flower garden, no problem it Prines'!

Wild Pink Columbine, my favorite wild flower.

hmmm...

2011-06-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

The last 24 hours have been on the side of fortunate for me.

Around supper time hour of yesterday, my brother - the retired postman called me. Ah, we always have such uplifting chats. We talked mostly about music ~ John Prine, Bruce Springsteen, and Neil Young. We share a few incidental words about family and then it is back to music. My brother and I both enjoyed the music of Clarence Clemons; so yesterday the conversation revolved around Clarence, his life and times with Bruce Springsteen. It was so nice to hear his voice, I miss him.

Early this morning, I came in from the outside shortly after Noisemaker awoke. I took my gumboots off and walked into the house. I looked down the path towards the creek and there stands a doe with twins. These twins were just born - they could barely stand on there feet. They struggled to stay on their feet. They would fall down and jump back up, it was nature at its' best.

I had to go to the general store this morning to get some milk. At that time, I purchased a lotto ticket. I returned home and Noisemaker and I decided to walk down to the creek. Well low and be Prine hold - what you see in the picture is what I found. The biggest four leafer, yet! I swear lotto is in the winds of the north or the four strong winds may blow me skyward. Either way, I feel strong that I am on the side of luck.

...I'm a walkin' down the street, like lucky Larue

Got my hand in my pocket, thinkin' 'bout you

I ain't hurtin' nobody

I ain't hurtin' no one...

John Prine

We'll End Up Sittin' On A Rainbow

2011-06-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

First time on the mountain side, we saw a rainbow. Noisemaker said I should run across the creek and see if I could find the pot of gold. The creek is running fast; way more than 1/2" of water, I declined. I could have gone down the drink if I had crossed that creek.

The first photo is our front yard ~ there were a total of 15 deer here yesterday. The food supply is excellent for them this time of year. Second, is the rainbow.

In spite of ourselves

We'll end up sittin' on a rainbow

Against all odds

Honey, we're the big door prize

John Prine

Oh, Bev - and it is not me...

2011-06-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

Bev - John - Ruth

Photo Credit - Mark Sannes

They all got gold.

Iris Dement - Davenport

2011-06-19T14:20:00.000-07:00

Photo - Thank You, Mark Sannes

Iris Dement and Mark Sannes, Davenport, Iowa - 2011.06.18

Prine - Davenport, Iowa, USA

2011-06-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit - Mark Sannes.

Top Row - Mark, Charlene, Ruth Ann, Reeda

Bottom Row - Bev (not me), Terry

Photo Credit - Mark Sannes

A Prine Fine Time we held by all. I should have cashed in the retirement savings, this concert was the ultimate Prine.