So today's blog is going to deal with multiple topics - something I don't often do, but probably should. Especially when I'm having a hard time writing more than one paragraph on a particular subject! But I am going to try to worry less about writing a certain set number of paragraphs like I've been doing since starting up this little blog. So, on with today's blog!
A TASTE OF WINTER IN MAY
For those of you not following the weather today, the Upper Midwest is experiencing a bit of a wintry blast from Mother Nature. That just so happens to include the Upper Peninsula, where I live! Remember the last few Aprils (not this April, though) where I've complained about snowstorms then? Well I can't believe I'm having to compose part of a blog about the impending snowstorm in May this year! Just when you think you don't have to worry about hearing the "S" word or driving another day on snowy roads, here it is again! The good news is that it's not going to be like the snowstorm of May 9-10, 1990 where some parts of the U.P. picked up 20 inches of snow. The highlands of the central U.P. could pick up four to seven inches of snow during the storm, with lesser amounts near the lake shores. You have to remember that at this time of the year, it's very difficult for the snow to stick on the ground, especially considering how warm we've been this spring. Still, the snow is expected to fall overnight, and when the temperatures will be at their coolest during the night, snow will begin to stick on grassy surfaces and even the roads. It won't be a fun drive into work in the morning! But hopefully it's the final last gasp of winter for the U.P. I suppose we deserve it - winter did end rather abruptly for us this year.
AN INTERESTING SHOPPING TRIP
So yesterday evening, I ventured into town to do a bit of shopping for Mother's Day. Not knowing what the weather would be like today, I decided to get my shopping done yesterday. I went into one of my favorite stores to see what I could get for my mom. I always like to buy mom things that match the season for when that particular occasion is occurring. For example, Mother's Day is in the spring, so I shopped for some spring and summer themed gifts. Usually I buy my mom an outdoor flower arrangement, which I did. I bought this beautiful striped petunia pot at another store which has great outdoor gardening items. I also bought her some outdoor bird knick-knacks, because she's a wild bird enthusiast, just like myself. She's got quite a collection going, and some of the older birds in the collection are getting rather faded and old. In addition, I also bought her a bird wind chime. So, as I went to check out at the store, I swiped my debit card in the machine, made the final selections on the little keypad, and waited for my transaction to go through. The only thing is, it didn't! After the monitor said "approved," the machine froze. The cashier and I were waiting for the machine to finish processing, but it never did. So they had to reboot the system (which took an incredibly long time) and hope that they didn't have to re-ring all of my items through the check out again. Well, when the system finally came back up, my items were still on the screen, but I wasn't charged yet. So I had to re-swipe me debit card and this time the transaction went through. But that's something I never experienced before but I am sure its happened to others. The store manager was great, giving me a $5 gift card for my troubles (which I used the second time through). And I wasn't the least bit upset about having to wait, because I wasn't in a big rush to go anywhere. I was more amused than anything!
RANDOM IDOL NEWS
So I've heard a few interesting things the last few days when it comes to American Idol. First off, just like they did last year during the top four, the final four contestants will pair up with a fellow contestant and sing duets. Last season, Danny Gokey and Kris Allen were paired up, while Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta sang a duet. It's a nice concept, however, I'd much prefer that all four contestants get an additional song to sing like they've done prior to season eight. Having that fourth judge on the panel takes away from each of the contestants getting to sing another song! Hopefully with Simon leaving the show after this season, the producers will return to a three-judge format like they've had prior to season eight. In fact while they're at it, they should get rid of Randy, Ellen, and Kara as well! A brand new panel for a new era of Idol. Maybe that'll give the show some new life and the ratings will come back. But in general, I think people are tired of the show. In addition, next week the Idol will be singing songs from the cinema (a theme they had last year) along with guest mentor Jamie Foxx (who also appeared as a mentor last season). Honestly, why all these recycled themes and why the emphasis on having mentors each and every week again? Where are the producers' priorities when it comes to the show? Where's Nigel Lythgow when you need him?
2 comments:
Go Nigel.....cut to the chase, no bullcrapping around, tell it like it is Nigel.
Your mom should be happy with her gifts. Do you take her out to eat for Mother's Day? I think she might like that , no dishes to wash or clean up or cooking.
Weather everywhere is always changeable.....the snow shouldn't last long at all.
What is the best place to eat in the UP? Do you know a good mom /pop place? I like to try out local places and not chains. B.
P.S. How did your dad like mowing with his 'new' rider?
If I didn't have to work today, I would've spent time with her. But alas, such is life. She and my dad stopped by my house last night so I got to spend some time with her then. Plus I will be seeing her tomorrow, too.
As for the snow, it's already gone! Where I live, we didn't get any accumulation, but farther inland, there was. I think at most there was 4" on the ground, but it's pretty much all melted. Snow does not like the warmth this time of year, that is for sure.
Best places to eat in the entire UP? I could be here all day. lol How about to start, the Villa Capri in Marquette (among many other fine restaurants in Mqt), the Dogpatch Restaurant in Munising, the Buck Inn near Escanaba, the Brownstone Inn near AuTrain - just a few suggestions for you (oh, great UP blog topic for later!).
And lastly, my dad has not ran his new rider - he said the grass is not quite long enough, the last we talked about it. :)
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