Life has been peaceful in recent weeks. Most of this tranquility is weather induced. With daytime highs in the upper 90s and overnight lows around 80, moving about for any reason is undesirable. Nevertheless, I have some adventures to report.
First, if I do not act up on a regular basis, I get cranky. So, I decided to grow some facial hair. I consider this sort of activity mildly rebellious. It also requires a level of physical activity suitable for the season. My son-in-law detected my new look several weeks ago.
“Ah, yes. You are going for that J.B. Books look.” He offered.
“Uh, yes, I suppose I am.” I instantly recalled John Wayne’s character in his last film, The Shootist. J.B. was an aging gunfighter dying of cancer in a small town. Naturally, there were baddies in town who wanted to make their reputation by picking-off old J.B. It was a good western.
I was flattered that my son-in-law thought I might achieve the classic western gravitas of “The Duke.” Each morning, I carefully groomed and trimmed the Bonsai on my lip. After a couple weeks, I peered into the mirror. I even squinted a little bit and drawled “Pilgrim” in my best John Wayne voice. I began to resemble a famous person all right.
After an objective look, I think I am a dead ringer for Colonel Sanders. Darn.
Well, I did my best. In truth, I am fonder of the Colonel’s chicken than gun fighting. I guess either one could end a life prematurely, eh? I suppose I would rather go out with a “burp” than a “bang.”
Here are some announcements:
I visited “the ranch” with my son and grandson, Augie last week. It was hot and the grass was deep. While there, I caught this charming scene of a dad teaching his son the finer points of peeing on a bush without ruining his socks and shoes or finding a snake. My son is a great Dad.
I will be on vacation next week. I am going on a road trip hosted by my daughter, son-in-law and two charming grandchildren. I am almost certain to find a cornucopia of new stories during this adventure. I shall let you know when I return.
Finally, I will show some of my photographs at the Bosque County Fine Arts Center in Clifton, Texas. The show runs from October 2 through November 13. You might want to make travel plans early to avoid disappointment!
Until next time, stay cool!
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This one had me laughing right out loud.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I am glad I am a girl, and not able
to grow a beard, mustache, or goatee. Actually,
if I could...it would be kinda sad given that
I like pink tops and matching fingernails.
Of course, today anything goes.
E
I am sure I would be just as dashing in a pink top... Um, mebbe not. My grandmother had a moustache that put the rest of us to shame. When she kissed, it was like being smooched by a walrus. So, do not despair. You may yet grow a moustache!
ReplyDeleteRegarding summer fun, summer fun, summer not! If you need any beard advice, I'm your guy. And when you need it clipped and shaped, road trip to Sportclips at the District in Tustin and ask for Nancy. She is the BEST on beards I have EVER known. It's worth the trip!!!
ReplyDeleteAn adventure courtesy of your kids? Is that a fancy way of saying you got roped in long-term grandkid care again?????? BR
...and summer called on account of rain?
ReplyDeleteI will put Nancy on my "must visit" list!
If your son is a good Dad; that says a lot about you Hank. That picture is priceless...
ReplyDeleteSo far I am really enjoying your blog. We'll have to have another pint one Saturday soon.
I'm new to writing; but I linked a story to my name above. Click and let me know what you think.
Eric Pinola
Greenbrook Dr.