Spring Fling Tease in February

       For a person who spent most of this winter freezing tushie…I can’t be sad that our weather has taken a turn for the better (and warmer); however, for my grandchildren who are coming to visit from a much warmer state, I am sad.  They have been hearing about the record snowfall this year here and have been looking forward to playing in the snow.  Last night it rained all night long…surprising us with such a meltdown of snow…that, I personally can’t believe I didn’t wake up in another land, like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz.   A Spring fling has decided to tease us this February…we didn’t even get our traditional January thaw like usual.

         The temperatures have gone from single digits to the 50 degree mark in less than a week.  All this next week, it will be warmer than normal.  This does not bode well for getting some recovery snow to at least blanket the ground with a soft white appearance for the grandchildren.  The fates are against them seeing the kind of snow of a kids dreams. 

         On the other hand, as a person who pays, and pays dearly, to warm up a big old farm house during these wintry days…I can’t be truly sad about the snow loss.  🙂  I have a secret desire to feel a tropical heatwave…shhhhhh….don’t tell my grandbabies!!!!

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Blessing Of The Bikes-Michigan

        Every year on the third sunday of May, is something called, The Blessing Of The Bikes!  It all started about 36 years ago.  The history of the event says, the first year there were 4 bikes and 8 riders who rode their bikes to Baldwin, Michigan in Lake County.  They had a “blessing” on their bikes for safe riding for the year.  The tradition continues each and every year; i know this since, i grew up in a town about 40 minutes south of there on M-37.

       Now days, we hear the sounds of a rip roaring thunder throughout the weekend …usually, starting on Thursday and it continues throughout Sunday; as the bikers, and their bikes, make their way home once again.  It is an awesome thing to behold.  The earth shakes as they pass by. 

         With the economy being depressed by gasoline prices, people are using bikes more for everyday travels when they can.  This lends a different perspective in pocketed areas of our country where saving money isn’t just something nice to do…it is the difference between living and surviving.

       Depending on the weather…the event can be a wonderful kick off for the riding season.  But, if the weather is a little cold (like this weekend) or wet like some other years…it can be a mite uncomfortable.  The smart ones are prepared for any kind of weather.   However, for those who have faith in God …the blessing is not something they wish to pass up simply because of something as changeable as the weather.   Prayer for a fun and safe riding season is almost like having some extra insurance!  🙂

        So, tomorrow, as we try to teach the little ones in church…we will once again…grin and occassionally, plug our ears as we hear the high pitched whine of some, and roar of the others, as they fly by the church building.  We will send up prayers for those who wish to feel the rush of the wind; and, experience the joy of traveling the roads on a hog, chopper, honda, suzuki or whatever form of bike they own. 

        They come from all over the US to get their blessing.  Everyday bikers, plus rich and famous ones too; everyone kicks off the summer riding adventure with joy in their hearts and safety on their minds.   Some bikers take the time to explore Newaygo & Lake County and all of the richness and beauty they have to offer in lakes, rivers, streams and campgrounds. 

       There are those who rave about things such as Cinnamon Rolls the size of a dinner plate at Sally’s Restaurant in White Cloud, Michigan.  It leaves a tasty memory and sounds a bit like a good ole fisherman’s story…but, it is true!  It is a challenge to eat one by yourself… you almost have to share with a friend, or two.  Gotta see it to believe it.  Many take the time to stop in to some of the churchs along the way.  They are welcome!  God bless them all!   http://blessingofthebikes.org/, http://www.lakecountymichigan.com/.

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In honor of spring

        In honor of spring i made a spring salad.  I used to make it for the residents in the nursing home that i worked in a few years back.  They loved it.  🙂

        My family….doesn’t love it as much.  So, i had to make a small batch.  It is a small bag of frozen peas unthawed, a dollop or two of mayonaise or salad dressing depending on which you prefer, chopped up small pieces of onion, celery stalk, cucumber as well as some shredded low fat cheddar cheese.  It is good with some small bits of bacon as well…however, i didn’t have any.  Mix together with a small shake or two of balsamic vinegar and whaaaaaa laaaa  you have a marvelous spring salad.

        My family doesn’t know what they are missing; and, I on the other hand…have a lovely spring salad to eat with my lunch time sandwiches for the next 2 or 3 days.

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