Happy Ending

Savoring morsels from past posts: “Welcome, September!”  After “a long, hot three months, I’m ready to move on ...  One thing I will miss, however, is the summer siesta.”

Cool at last!  This August ends happily with a dramatic drop in Ogden temperature.  The relief from brutal heat does not diminish the daily desire for dipping ice cream, however.  I see it across the street at the gathering place, and in my own freezer.  What was your favorite flavor this summer?  I’m sure my sweetheart Kay recalls her Hinckley homemade lemon ice cream.  It’s happy family history, and there is no end ...

Leftovers for Ned

So much generosity from neighbors, friends, and family!  I seldom mention food here, but it has become so compelling, despite my lessened interest in partaking.  Thankfully, my personal history does include food, particularly my liking leftovers.  My sweetheart Kay, best cook of all, knows it.  (Memories of morsels melting in my mouth!)

For example: every Monday night, neighbors gather for “family home evening” in our apartments’ social room, followed by a potluck “linger longer” (translates to lots of snacks and some healthier food).  Also, generous single adults who like to cook for two or more, ask me for help with delicious, nutritious leftovers (and extra food purchased especially for me).  Yes, I likewise share, but not so much.

Somehow I gained a reputation, resulting in a full fridge and little need to shop.  What can I say.  I’m lovin’ it — thank you, everyone!

Monday Lunch Break

To share a random bit of family history, not to bore readers with what’s for lunch.  (Reminder: this blog is not about fast food; it is free to use incomplete sentences, however.)

Got mail?

Anticipation!  That describes a high of the day when the mail truck arrives at our apartment community.  For some older folks it’s a happy, social-distancing event in the lobby by their mailboxes — one of many benefits of apartment living.

“What’s coming for you and me today?” Something surprising, mixed with bills and junk mail?  A letter from an old friend or younger child?  A postcard from a world traveler?  Bottom line: junk with coupons is better than an empty mailbox, for which friends can offer sympathy and offer hope for the next day.

Then there’s always email, which young people treat as chat, quickly responding by phone app, like breathing in and breathing out.  ( I may be wrong — just my impression.)  Email can also bring delightful surprises anytime of the day or night ... with limited opportunity to socialize in our “e-lounge” computer room.  Free printing for those who keep mail on paper.

Got mail today?

Another Day in Ogden

Something about this town — every day is a good day in a way.  We love Ogden, Utah!  On this beautiful day in our fair city, here’s more history in addition to my 7/17 post:

Megaplex Theatres at The Junction

food court, 30 July 2020

rock climb, iFly, Flowrider surfing, fitness center, games, family fun

Pioneer Days parade, 24 July 2019

Farmall like one Ned (age 10) drove

temple, The Church of Jesus Christ 

of Latter-day Saints

Lego display, Weber County Library

(with granddaughter; boys missed it)

Smith & Edwards offering everything

(where Kay & I wanted to work)

fireworks viewed from home 23 July

Tuesday Time Off Too

Facing another delightful Tuesday, I thought this, too, would be a chance to share while taking time off.  (My 6/30 post explains Tuesdays.) 

Laughing out loud, I made a “short” list of vital things to take on my camping trip ... and kept adding to it.  (A staycation would be much simpler and more comfortable.  I know from experience, recalling the adventure starts here.)  More notes may be posted later.

So, I took care of Ogden business on the way (for fuel economy), then remembered something on my list: the tent I left at home.  More laughter to keep my sanity.

After setting up my little tent in the canpground corner, I took the short, scenic route to Maddox Ranch House restaurant (since “August 1949”) and chose the traditional chicken dinner.  Not exactly roughing it, but bringing sweet memories of meals there with my wife Kay and friends — priceless.

Back in the tent, memories of camping with our three little boys, as I listened to a young family next door, having fun with their chatterbox son roasting marshmallows.  “Want to make a s’more with chocolate and graham crackers?”  “Yeah!” he exclaimed as a dog barked in the camp behind them.  Made me smile.  Campground crickets chirped as the talk quieted down.  What a life!