Good morning GH.  Who would have thought that after the warm weekend that we just experienced, that the desktop temperature would show 47 degrees.  A quick look out the Weather Window currently shows sunny skies and no precipitation.  Sugar the Weather Dog isn't reacting to any impending storms, so I'm going with her predictive skills today, in spite of the radio forecast for rain in most of Western Michigan this AM.  We got the downstairs toilet repaired yesterday.  It turns out that there is a small device in the valve that is intended to slow the water flow and keep the noise down.  Apparently, it doesn't do all that well in the face of chlorine and it swells up, causing more, not less, noise.  The plumber removed it, the noise level is only slightly elevated, and the toilet works well.  A win-win.  I was thinking overnight about why the letter Y is sometimes a vowel. So. I consulted the internet, only to find that there is no general agreement as to why Y is sometimes a vowel.  Lots of theories, but few real solid explanations.  Here's mine.  I think anytime that a word doesn't have another vowel present, for example, the word by, then the letter Y is used as a vowel. So, if you have words like lynch, or myth, or for that matter, the word why, the letter Y is used to take the place of the vowel and make the vowel sound.  That's the English language for you.  Otherwise, I have to go to the grocery store today, return about a gazillion cans from the weekend and repair the light in the kitchen.  Once again, a pretty full day.  Mary has to work on an indexing project, so I will be left to my own devices.  Not all bad.  Sugar the Weather Dog will still need a walk and I have to get her some additional feed stuffs at the grocery store, so I have to be sure to add that to my list.  Otherwise, not much is happening.  Therefore, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  I arrived here at the computer at 7:00 AM today to find that the temperature on the desktop, 59 degrees, confirmed what I already knew, it was chilly here in the Weather Office.  Sugar the Weather Dog stirred long enough to go to her own bed and leave the side of ours, where she had been sleeping.   She too knew it was colder than it had been in previous days.  I can confirm that my helicopter actually had a successful test flight yesterday, at least until it landed on the roof.  Fortunately, I was able to retrieve it.  Such are the hazards of flying in the sun according to the directions.  Mary got her U.S. map in place yesterday after we went shopping for some tacks and things.  With her revised vision, it looks great.  We can continue to add as we continue our travels across these United States.  We bought a new pot and some soil while we were out and I transplanted the horseradish into a more suitable location.  Turns out it was starting to sprout, but at the rate it was going, it would have been next year before I saw it above ground.  Otherwise, the downstairs toilet needs a visit from the plumber to repair the toilet fill valve.  It was making funny noises, and now it isn't working well at all.  I think it is sick.  After a split veggie burrito at the best kept secret her in GH, I spent some time reading, Mary spent some time working, before her efforts to make dinner were detoured by an uncooperative acorn squash.  So, she improvised and we had sweet potatoes, sweet corn, and something else that escapes me at this time.  I think it was a successful replacement.  Today, I have to empty the trash and get all of the things from the garage out to the curb.  Lots to do.  I also need to find the energy to repair the overhead light in the kitchen.  Such a busy day leads me to only one conclusion.  It is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  It is currently 7:30 in the AM, and as I look out the Weather Window, the skies are not cloudy and the temperature on the desktop is 63 degrees.  Sugar the Weather Dog is still in her bed.  After last night, when she was forced to live in the bathroom for several hours due to her fear of lightning and thunder, this is quite an improvement.  Today, we are expecting lower humidity and moderate temperatures.  Speaking of Sugar the Weather Dog, I got her doppelganger painted yesterday.  While maybe not the greatest paint  scheme of my short career, I think she turned out OK.  I got my smaller helicopter in the air yesterday afternoon, but the lift from the rotors is very limited.  I obviously still have some work to do.  Did some knitting yesterday, but I am still not satisfied with the results.  I think I need to have Mary watch me as I work, to see what I am doing wrong, if anything.  It may just be that I have a longer learning curve than others.  Otherwise, the day is set for reading, riding, music, more knitting practice, and possibly piloting.  We shall see.  Meanwhile, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Once again I get the chance to predict the daily weather.  As I gaze out the Weather Window, the skies are currently clear and there is no evidence of precipitation.  Last evening, Sugar the Weather Dog was hiding out, so she believes something is coming.  The National Weather Service is predicting a hot day and then showers and cooler temperatures behind an approaching cold front.  I understand the science behind predicting the weather, but I also know that "sometimes, there are no answers."  We plan to view the Memorial Day Parade here in GH this AM, as do folks in many communities throughout America.  It is too bad that we have to have only one day to honor these fine men and women who all too often gave their lives for our freedom.  I don't want anyone to denigrate their service or that of their families, as they have given and continue to give so much.  Adam and Steph are preparing to leave, after a fine Memorial Day family gathering.  By the by, the "Circus" has returned to town.  Now, we will have to conduct our business during the off times, Monday - Thursday.  Otherwise, I managed to ride my bike for several miles yesterday.  I just had to watch out for the "Circus."  Now, it is off to...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  As I gaze out the Weather Window, I can truly say we are blessed on this fine day.  The current temperature on the desktop is 66 degrees, and Sugar the Weather Dog is still asleep in her bed.  We should all be thankful for our freedoms, so hard won by our veterans and for the general prosperity that accrues to most Americans by virtue of living in this country.  I suggest that we owe our veterans a debt of thanks and our leaders a heap of scorn.  The leaders keep getting us involved in wars that are paid for in our tax dollars and the lives of service members.  Had a great time at rib fest yesterday afternoon, and the weather cleared up in time for us to be out doors with no problem.  I know that higher temperatures are expected today, but since we are near the shore of the "Big Lake", we should be just fine.  Adam helped us keep the temperature of the house down by getting the screens installed, so we owe him for that effort.  Steph adds to the overall brightness of our humble abode, and for that contribution, we are also grateful.  Me, I just plan to kick back and enjoy the day.  Not much effort needed.  A little reading, a little music, and my day will be complete.  So until tomorrow, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Here I am at nearly 8:00 AM on a partly cloudy day in GH.  Out the Weather Window, the sun is trying to make an appearance, but it is having to fight it out with the cloud cover.  The current temperature on the desktop is showing 62 degrees, and Sugar the Weather Dog is still sound asleep.  Alas, so too is Mary.  We are planning a walk to the farmer's market this AM and of course, Sugar the Weather Dog will be joining us.  That assumes it isn't raining, then all bets are off.  Here in GH, the VFW will be continuing their Rib Fest, which includes entertainment.  Mary and I attended last evening as did Adam and Steph, and we all had a good time, although we weren't together and didn't learn of the other's presence until we we were all back at home.  I should mention that the parade for the veterans of GH is at 9:30 Monday morning, and is supposed to travel from Franklin to the Waterfront Stadium.  That doesn't explain why they have the wooden horses distributed on Washington, unless it is going from the courthouse lot on Franklin, over to Washington and then down Washington to the waterfront.  I guess I will find out on Monday.  Don't forget, the Indy 500 is tomorrow, with coverage on radio and television beginning,  The guys on the radio say that they listen rather than watch, an old family tradition.  Meanwhile, it is time to watch Up With Chris.  so I'm outta here.

Good morning GH.  Here I am at near;y 7:45 AM on a beautiful day in GH.  As I gaze out the Weather Window, the sun is shining, the skies are clear and the current temperature on the desktop is 62 degrees.  Sugar the Weather dog is already up, but she shows no signs of needing any immediate action.  I know that she will recommend a biscuit and a walk later, so that she too can enjoy this beautiful day.  A reminder to all who are about to embark on the opportunity to enjoy a few days off from work, here or elsewhere, that this weekend is about more than picnics, barbecues, hot dogs, and apple pie, not to mention auto racing.  It is about the men and women who gave their time, and often their lives, so that we can have the chance to live in this land of the free and the home of the brave and enjoy those things.  Someone once said that freedom isn't free, and they are right.  Be sure that you thank a veteran, and especially those veterans close to you, like grandfathers, grandmothers, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and anyone else that knows the true price of freedom.  When enjoying the rib fest here in GH, be sure to remember that the people sponsoring the activity are members of an organization who made it all possible.  Take time to attend the parade, take time to go to the cemetery, and be sure to take time to smell the freedom we all enjoy.  Otherwise, not much is happening today.  We will have our own deck and porch ready for the weekend, that's for sure.  So, the deity willing and the if the river doesn't rise, we will be ready to go.  Meanwhile, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Well, as is often the case, I was typing away and then lost the whole thing.  What is it that they say,"It happens."  I just found it, but now it is too late.  Oh well, as I said before, "It happens."  I'll therefore start over.  I got up late enough today to actually be able to see out the Weather Window.  Sugar the Weather Dog is still sound asleep, but I am certain that she would concur with my findings, another beautiful day here in GH.  Current temperature is 59 degrees on the desktop and the skies are cloud free.  I was pleased to see that Mary started another blog today, I can attest to how hard it is to keep up the effort, but hers has pictures.  She has shown me how to do it, so now all I have to do is learn how to become a follower and I'll be all set.  I hope everybody likes her before and after pictures, I do.  I think she may want to work in the garden some more today, but as of right now, I don't have the energy.  Maybe later, but right now, not so much.  I am going to the allergist today for some testing and while I am there, I'll have him look down my throat for the cause of the soreness.  Call it a twofer.  My current plans call for me to do very little today, given how I feel.  Maybe some vacuuming, but that is about it.  That in itself will be taxing enough.  Fortunately, I got the heavy cleaning done yesterday.  I wish I didn't feel so tired, but that is where I'm at right now.  Otherwise, it looks like some reading and relaxing for this blogger right now.  Anyway, it is now officially....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Well, it is morning, but the day has not yet officially dawned.  Sugar the Weather Dog is still asleep and Mary has gotten up to do the laundry.  The temperature on the desktop is showing 46 degrees @ 5:55 AM, and the overall forecast is for warmer today than yesterday with great weather expected over the weekend.  A look out the Weather Window shows clear skies on the the  horizon and it looks to be a beautiful day on the way.  Had to share some of the things we did yesterday.  We finished planting our vegetable garden, got the herbs planted, and I almost finished my helicopter repairs.  A final inspection showed that the rotors were not properly attached and that could have resulted in a crash.  I got my new guitar tuner and that works great.  I also changed the air filters in the car after our sojourn into the wilds of dusty Beaver Island.  Today, I plan to dust and finish some additional cleaning on the upper level.  I will reserve the lower level dusting and vacuuming for tomorrow, just before the young folks visit.  I have to mention that Mary took her inaugural bike ride and pronounced her new bike a spectacular ride.  She was one for two on her walking trip to the city, finding new sandals, but not a windbreaker.  After all, it is late in the season.   I wore my new sandals at length yesterday and I pronounce them super.  Finally, I must report some local news.  A local clergy member has been asked to refrain from hugging the parish children and families since it doesn't look proper.  Maybe so, but what have we become?  A woman on the radio told a man suffering from diabetes and its related blindness that it was just a manifestation of his lack of ability to process all the sweetness in his life.  He needed to resolve that problem.  Some Western MI H.S. seniors were suspended for their senior prank.  What was so horrible you ask?   They rode their bikes to school, after telling the police chief, the mayor etc.  Oops, they forgot to tell the school.  Isn't that the point of a senior prank?  Finally, one of our local restaurants is scheduled to reopen soon as a chicken place.  I don't eat chicken, but at least it is a new idea.  Don't forget, that this is the weekend for Rib-fest here in GH.  Otherwise it is... Tea time.

Good morning GH.  I can say after looking out the Weather Window, that the day is beautiful.  The sun is shining and the sky is clear.  The temperature on the desktop is currently 49 degrees and Sugar the Weather Dog has confirmed my suspicions, a great day is in the offing.  I had time to ride my bike all over town yesterday in the PM.  Guess what; it was a beautiful day then too.  Today I plan to do a little work on my helicopter and get it back into flying shape; a new power source, refurbished rotor assembly etc.  I should be ready to go by this afternoon.  I might even have time to put some paint on Ragus, if I have the motivation.  We planted part of our garden yesterday, and then ran out of soil.  We'll have to get some additional soil today.  For those of you who monitor these things, it has been suggested that you purchase gasoline this week, prior to the holiday weekend, as the price is expected to rise significantly then.  Otherwise, not much on the schedule.  If all goes well, it will be....Tea time soon.

Good morning GH.  I knew that Sugar the Weather Dog would have trouble yesterday evening with the storms and my concerns were borne out when I found her lying on the landing between upstairs and downstairs before I went to bed.  Mary says it is because she, Mary, was downstairs and I was upstairs, and Sugar was torn between her duties as Chief of Security and her need to protect us both and her fear of storms.  I think she made the best of a tough choice if that is so, and I commend her for her efforts on our behalf.  Lots of people in town yesterday for the final day of the Lake Michigan Kite Fest.  Mary and I went down to the beach and saw some amazing sights and kites. a nice bit of alliteration, I think.  A flying octopus, a space shuttle, flying cows, the list just goes on and on.  Mary purchased a dragon kite that she will fly when no one is looking.  I like her idea.  She can fly while I swim, a win-win for both of us.  Yesterday, Mary made some killer sweet potato drop biscuits, and I helped.  My job was to sift and to cut the margarine into the sifted mixture of flours, and corn meal etc.  I think the success was due in large part to my efforts.  That's my story and I am sticking to it. We got some vegetables for our hanging planters yesterday, and they will be planted today.  Met our backyard neighbor yesterday after we returned.  He is the owner of the Mustang that inhabits the driveway there.  It will be back for the summer soon.  He admits that he doesn't know much about mechanics, but he does enjoy driving the car which he has had since his high school days.  He and his wife are teachers and he is also a Tigers fan.  Me, I was just enjoying being outside on the rear patio.   As soon as the deck is finished, I will also be enjoying that.  It hit the low nineties here in the PM.  Currently, the desktop temperature is showing 57 degrees, a better than twenty degree drop.  Nineties and clear are expected again by the holiday weekend.  Right now, skies are cloudy and there is some evidence of rain.  I would prefer a somewhat more steady weather pattern, but alas, that isn't currently in the offing.  Anyway, I have rambled long enough, so it is.....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  As I often say, another beautiful day is dawning here in GH.  As I gaze out the Weather Window, I see clear skies and the sun is on the rise.  Current desktop temperature is already a balmy 67 degrees at 7:05 in the AM.  Sugar the Weather Dog slept at the side of the bed last night, I think because I had the window open in the bedroom and you know how she can be.  She is fearless unless she hears strange noises from things that go bump in the night, so she has to feel safe.  She would run through traffic to get to another dog, regardless of the size, but the slightest noise can frighten her to distraction.  She is in herself a conundrum.  Mary, Sugar, and I walked all over town yesterday, and enjoyed the beautiful day.  One note, the crowds that the city planned to get for the Kite Festival came in to town yesterday.  Huge traffic jam on Harbor Drive.  The crowds are the plan, but I don't know that they were well planned for.  This should be a practice for Coast Guard Fest.  Of course, the merchants in Center Town were having a small Taste of GH and the new Coast Guard boat on Beacon was being dedicated, so that probably added to the crowds.  Whoever plans these things got it right, they just need more practice.  Mary and I walked through our beautiful Central Park yesterday afternoon coming and going to the downtown, and noticed that the park had been set up for a wedding.  It couldn't have been a more perfect day.  Otherwise, not much to do today.  We plan to go to the lakefront to view the early stages of Kite Fest and then wash the car and plant the garden plants we got yesterday at the Farmer's Market.  Not much, but satisfying.  Meanwhile, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Another beautiful day is dawning here in GH.  The sun is shining, the current temperature is  53 degrees and Sugar the Weather Dog is still comfortably asleep.  All is well as I gaze out the Weather Window.  We just got back yesterday from a short trip to Beaver Island, MI, and it was very relaxing.  Only one television station came in, which kept us away from the usual junk television.  The ecosystem was as diverse as could be.  A small island, 6 1/2 X 12 miles in size, but it had numerous variances with many lakes lakes, marshes, and vegetation.  In addition, the weather was great, except for the allergies from a wave of pollen due to its more northern location.  All in all, a great pleasure.  We had a beach to walk on that was over a mile in length, and due to the off-season timing, all to ourselves.  Even Sugar the Weather Dog had a good time, unless you count the ferry trips to and from.  We saw deer, coyotes, wild turkeys and not many people.  Gasoline is $4.99 per gallon, and that is for regular unleaded, the only option. We didn't have to buy any.  Food is more expensive, due to the need to transport it by air or ferry, but that is to be expected.  We did rent some Videos at the gas station, and that kept us entertained along with learning about chess and playing scrabble.  I managed to read two books and that in itself was all good.  Otherwise, it is now...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Yesterday, I went to an Irish music gathering at the local library.  Met some interesting and fun people and began to remember more about how to play.  All good. The weather report for today is that the desktop temperature is showing as 54 degrees and Sugar the Weather Dog is still in her bed, not asleep, because Mary's alarm went off and poor Sugar and I were were scared out of several years growth.  For Sugar, that may be about 30 dog years.  Outside the Weather Window, the day seems to be dawning partly cloudy with a promise of sunshine in my personal forecast.  I wanted to note that the full contact coin collecting is going well.  I got an Illinois, a Washington, D.C., Hawaii, and a few others that are hard to find.  I gave Adam a few that are now in his bowl in his and Steph's room.  I am down to just a few coins now, and I will   get them soon, I hope.  Otherwise, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  However, I am not so sure, since this AM, when I restarted my computer, it gave me a weird message and a blank screen.  But, then I tried again and it went okay.  I'll have to watch this thing, it has a mind of its own.  Sugar the Weather Dog was on the side of the bed this AM, but a quick glance out the Weather Window, doesn't show anything this AM other than somewhat gray skies and no precipitation.  So, who knows what is going on with her.  Desktop temperature is 54 degrees, so it should be a nice day.  We plan a trip to the farmer's market, the grocery store, the local garden shop for some rose bushes in honor of Mother's Day, and then a final stop at the bakery.  All of that followed by a two hour session at the library to learn some Irish music for me and some house things for Mary.  Seems like we will be busy.  I have to admit, that I am trying to learn to knit again.  I am doing better this go around, since my brain isn't fighting me.  At least my frustration level is down instead of up, so that's all good.  Otherwise, a rather uneventful day is planned.  I should mention that full contact coin collecting is going well, as I picked up some new ones yesterday and I received some help from a local merchant or two.  It doesn't get any better than that.  One final note before I sign off.  Yesterday was a sad day for those of us who are race fans.  Carroll Shelby passed away at the age of 89.  He is probably best known for the Super Cobra automobile, but he was a champion racer as an owner, manufacturer and a driver, and according to the program I watched on Speed Channel, he loved working for Henry Ford II and brought several titles to his name and that of Ford during his long association.  He had a good long life and managed to live many years with both a heart and kidney transplant.  When you are hot, you are hot I guess.  Otherwise, it is now...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Well another day is beginning to dawn here in GH.  Like yesterday, this one holds the promise of a thing of beauty.  Current desktop temperature is showing 41 degrees and the sky is clear and blue out the Weather Window.  Sugar the Weather Dog is still sound asleep, so that is a good sign.  Of course, that long walk she had yesterday was probable partly to blame.  Since I had decided I would walk the mile to the doctor's office, I asked Mary and Sugar to accompany me part of the way.  When they got to Duncan Woods, they turned off and I continued.  Apparently, Mary and Sugar continued through Duncan Woods and out the other side.  For Sugar it was a long walk with her short legs, so she was tired when she got home.  I'm sure though, that she will be ready to go again today; after all she is a high energy Weather Dog.  Side note, I got a referral to an allergist from the doctor to be tested for an allergy to whatever caused my reaction on Saturday.  I also got a prescription for Epinephrine pens, just in case.  I spent part of yesterday afternoon in the "Man Cave" working on the mat for the Castro Theater picture for our media room. It was enjoyable down there with the outer doors open and the sense of solitude that comes with the cave-like feeling. Afterwards, Mary and I finished the picture and when we decided to hang it, we found that we needed some picture wire to complete our task.  We picked that up at the local frame place and then proceeded to our most local watering hole for some afternoon libations and snacks.  Once home, we didn't get the picture hung, but we did have a nice evening.  All in all, a great day.  I am going to ride my bike to the dentist this AM as Mary goes to the grocery store.  Once Mary gets up it will be.....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  I could almost put a ditto for the first part of this blog.  A look out the Weather Window tells me that the skies are even clearer today than yesterday, and Sugar the the Weather Dog is still sound asleep.  Current temperature on the desktop is showing as 39 degrees, a bit cooler than yesterday.  However, today, I can see the sun on the rise and the day holds the promise of crisp and clean.  I'll be going to the doctor this AM, and I may walk if I have the desire on such a fine day.   Depends on whether I have the ambition.  Yesterday, Mary and I went to a really neat place in Muskegon for some home furnishings shopping.  Mary got a super picture for the living room, and I got a box for my office/music room.  Actually, whoever built the box designed it as a shoe shine box, and it came complete with shoe shining materials.  I'm using it as a stand for my foot as I play guitar.  It is so eclectic, that it fits in perfectly.  More work happened on the outside of the house yesterday afternoon/evening, and the weather today should bring the workman back earlier today.  I love it when a plan comes together.  For today, I will be returning from the doctor and then reading the paper(s).  Otherwise, it is...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  A quick look at my two most important weather sources, Sugar the Weather Dog and the now famous Weather Window, and I can confirm that the day should be relatively pleasant.  Current temperature on the desktop is 49 degrees.  Outside, the streets are beginning to dry, and the sky is only  partly cloudy.  Inside, Sugar is still fast asleep, indicating that no storms are on the immediate horizon.  Everything looked good at the orthopedist yesterday, so I'll see him in July for additional treatments.  Tomorrow, I'll see the internist for a follow up on my allergic reaction, dentist on Friday.  Did our usual modest amount of yard work yesterday afternoon, and then I did some power knitting; well at least for me it was power knitting, for Mary it was a source of amusement.  However, she did say I am learning better than when I had the brain thing going on.   That's progress right there.  Stopped at the Community Center for our first official Michigan vote, and then proceeded to the library for some books.  Went for a short walk yesterday afternoon and learned that the Hummus at the one restaurant isn't always made with Tahini, which may explain why I hadn't had a reaction there before.  That's an A before B kind of analysis, I know, but it is a beginning.  Today, we plan a little shopping in Muskegon and then an afternoon of relaxation.  Otherwise, not much actually planned, so now it is......Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Well. it is a bit foggy here in GH this AM.  Current temperature on the desktop is showing 48 degrees and the Weather Window confirms that the delayed school opening, due to fog, is indeed correct.  Sugar the Weather Dog seems to be in no hurry to get up, so I think she concurs.  Had a nice day in Holland yesterday in spite of the rain.  Didn't eat there, ate in one of the local places in GH.  I'm still hard at work on my blog here at 7:30 AM.  No real plans for the day, just a follow-up appointment at the orthopedist, and then a haircut.  I have to remind Mary about some calls she needs to make.  I'll put the info on her bleachers.  I have to find a way to get the GPS thing to learn our desired route.  Right now, it wants to take us back to Route 31 all the time, and that means we need to know more in order to ignore it.  There has to be a better way.  Oh well, I'l be having....Tea time now.

Good morning GH.  I think since I have much to say and little time to say it, I will give a quick report of the weather and then go on.  It is 54 degrees on the desktop, and Sugar the Weather Dog is still fast asleep after enduring an evening of thunderstorms in her bathroom hide e hole.  A quick glance out the Weather Window and there is no evident precipitation and the folks at Weather.com are showing the temperature at 54 degrees and the chance of precipitation at about 15% up until 11:00 when it jumps to 70%.  Yesterday I had the delightful experience of seeing a performance by the ballet company in Grand Rapids entitled Black Swan-White Swan a contemporary take on the ballet Swan Lake.  It was wonderful and the venue for the production was perfect and intimate enough to allow all to see.  The dancers were athletic, graceful, and dare I say it, very good.  As Mary pointed out, the prices allowed us to also have lunch out.  It doesn't really get any better than that.  Plus, in spite of my initial misgivings, I thoroughly enjoyed the production.  The young man who danced the lead part of the Black Swan was incredible, as were all the dancers.  A second plus for the day was that our new GPS got us there with only some slight needs on our part to ignore its directions as it learned we didn't want to take turns that we knew weren't how we planned our own route.  In the future it should work great, now that it is learning.  Mary made a change in the voice because the one it came programmed with was on the annoying side.  It now has a soothing more masculine voice and an arrow has replaced the guide bird that it was using.  Overall a delightful day and an enjoyable evening as I finished my helicopter repairs.  Now it is on to...Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Current temperature on the desktop thermometer reading is 53 degrees.  Sugar the Weather Dog is still fast asleep, and the folks at Weather.com are expecting a high of 73 degrees, and no strong chance of precipitation until later this evening.  Mary will like those numbers, as will Sugar the Weather Dog.  Still looks like a gray day out the Weather Window, and that is at 7:15 AM.  The sun rose at 6:32 this morning, and so much of the day is expected to be shrouded in clouds based on my observations.  We had an exciting afternoon yesterday visiting the local emergency room so that I could get some additional meds to stop my allergy attack.  I am apparently allergic to sesame seeds and the oil that is part of their yield.  I never was before, but two recent incidents have convinced me that I am either allergic to sesame, (highly likely) or garbanzo beans/chickpeas, (highly unlikely).  I am planning a visit to the allergist that my internist refers me to in order to get a follow up and certain diagnosis.  I spent most of my life with no apparent allergies and I have eaten Falafel  and Hummus many times in the past with no apparent reaction.  So, one must conclude that age, brain surgery, or something has caused this new allergy to kick in.  Once, you say what the hey.  Twice, you pay attention and get tested.  There are ways to make Falafel and Hummus without the sesame based Tahini, so I have forwarded two recipes to Mary for her perusal.  Both use Tahini as a side rather than as ingredient.  Otherwise I am fine.  Congratulations to Steph on picking the right horse in the derby.  My horse, a favorite by the way, didn't even finish in the top five.   So much for the experts.  Steph reminded me that I had the winner last year, but I was just coming off of surgery, so I don't remember that.  I think Steph, Mary, or Adam must have made that pick. Today, we are off to the ballet.  When I was younger, I disdained the ballet as too high brow for me, but now I am open to new things; a positive thing for me.  For Adam, a notorious email evader, do we have any jeweler's screwdrivers in the man-cave or elsewhere?  If not, I will order some from the supply it all website.  Now, I will attempt to put the helicopter back together with the only driver I have.  Tea time.

Good morning GH.  Well, it is about 6:30 AM here in beautiful GH, and as I gaze out the Weather Window, the sun is just beginning its slow rise over the horizon.  The skies appear that they are and will be partly cloudy most of the day, and the current desktop temperature is 54 degrees.  Sugar the Weather Dog is not up yet, but I think she would concur on the outlook for the day.  The fine folks at Weather.com are showing similar temperatures to mine, but they also show a chance of showers throughout the day too.  So. if Sugar refuses to leave the yard due to her fear of storms, then I'll have a better idea about today's meteorological activity.  Yesterday, we had to wrestle her to get her to leave the immediate vicinity of the house, and the weather stayed nice all day.  Go figure.  Meteorologists are describing a trip by the moon closer to the earth for tonight's full moon, and on the radio, one scientist went out on a limb and said that there will be an earthquake somewhere in the world tonight.  I think I can safely predict a sunset later today too. I know, I know, that is extreme, but sometimes you have to take a flyer.   Got the replacement parts for my small helicopter yesterday when I got home.  Apparently, the main shaft has some small pins that can get broken, and when they do, the helicopter becomes unable to fly as the rotors crash into each other and the machine therefore crashes to earth.  But now, I can get it back into the air and drive Sugar crazy with that.  Hmmm, it may be a way to have her overcome her fear of leaving the house.  All I have to do now is to get the parts installed.  The dis-assembly and re-assembly should be an exciting activity.  That sounds like something that I need to sit at my desk and do in an undisturbed fashion.  Otherwise, not much on tap for the day, except for....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  It is now 7:00 AM and the sun has not quite risen,  Sugar the Weather Dog is lying near the side of the bed, so that means that although she moved back to her own bed in the middle of the night, we can expect more storms here.  My desktop temperature is showing a balmy  64 degrees, and that means that walking should not require a jacket or other outer garment this morning, except for a rain coat.  Mary may disagree, but that is her prerogative.  Weather.com is showing 63 degrees with light rain and thunder.  (Is there such a thing as light thunder?)  I could have told them that, having consulted with Sugar the Weather Dog just a few minutes ago.  A look out the Weather Window shows gray skies and dry streets at the moment, so the rain forecast is not for right now.  However, I'll trust Sugar's instincts every time, when it comes to predicting storm fronts.  I got out on my bike yesterday and enjoyed the beautiful weather like everyone else.  That was before the front came through yesterday afternoon.  Mary, Sugar and I were watching a live version of the GH channel from the front porch, and you could feel the temperature drop and the wind kick up.  I guess in that way, we also have a Weather Porch, but I doubt that I will consult that source on a regular basis.  We hope we have resolved the bottle return snafu at the local grocery store, because their machine doesn't recognize a product that they are selling.  The clerk had to override the inventory control system that was not able to read an individual bottle.  It was only able to read the entire carton..  What a country.  In answer to Adam's query about a local fish monger, it appears that the closest thing we have here in GH is our regular market.  He will have to try that, or go to Grand Rapids.  He might like the drive, but without a cooler, it will be a long ride for the fish which would likely spoil.  I suggest that the local place would be better.  He might even want a cooler for that excursion.  Of course, he and I have plans to take a fishing charter to try to catch some of our own, but that isn't a regular source, nor a necessarily reliable one.  Otherwise, not much on tap for today, so it is now...Tea time.

Good morning GH, and, based on my observations using my weather prediction tools, it is going to be a nice day.  The current temperature on the desktop is showing as 72 degrees, and that means when it comes time to walk Sugar the Weather Dog, no coat will be required.  Skies are somewhat overcast and the day is therefore somewhat gray in appearance, but as usual, the weather site on the internet contradicts itself if you compare current, to hourly, and today.  That's one of the reasons that I love being a weather forecaster; I can be as unpredictable as the other guys and still get it as right as they.  Went to the Y yesterday, and spent nearly an hour in the water,  Felt good, but I was a bit sore after exiting the pool.  However, it did seem to help my lower back, so I think it was worth it.  If I can, I want to try more bike riding today, I just don't want to get caught in the rain that all of us forecasters are predicting.  So far, Sugar the Weather Dog hasn't made her prediction.  But, after her morning run back to the safety of her hide e hole yesterday morning, during which she managed to give Mary a workout, I don't know what to expect for this AM.  Sugar is still abed, so I don't think she is predicting anything on the immediate horizon, but one never knows.  I cut the man-cave stool down yesterday by five inches, and it is much more usable now.  I plan to use it to assist me in painting Ragus, after carefully covering Adam's workbench with several layers of newsprint.  Guitar playing is improving each day and that's a good thing.  Otherwise, just a few things on the agenda for the day, and if they don't get done, well, there is always tomorrow.  Right now, it is....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  However, that comes with a caveat this AM, because the storms are just beginning.  In fact, Sugar the Weather Dog predicted the storms, just as I thought she might, right along side the predictions by the National Weather Service and the radio weather guy earlier this morning.  Sugar the Weather Dog was found beside the bed in our master bedroom when I got up, but by now I am certain she is in the bathroom, her favorite place of safety.  I feel so sorry for her, but there is little I can do for her in a storm.  I am just now starting to hear the raindrops hitting the outside of the house, so the chances of getting Sugar to go out until it stops are Slim to None, and Slim is out of town until the storm is over.  Although I can see a limited amount out the Weather Window, I can see enough and hear enough to know that I agree with her.  Current temperature on the Desktop is showing 57 degrees, so that says it will be a warm and wet day.  Gosh, I just love this weather forecasting stuff.  My plans may be altered by the weather, in that I won't be doing any yard work today, which Mary and I did some of yesterday.  Mary in her usual fine style mowed the lawn as I pulled dandelions, transplanted some Hostas, and planted the horseradish roots.  We both agreed that that was the limit of our desire for yard work on any given day.  Now that I can see ore out the Weather Window, I can confirm my earlier predictions, it is definitely raining.  We won't have to water the roots nor the transplanted Hostas.  Mary was going to the grocery store to return some cans and to buy some supplies, but that may also wait.  Time will tell, but I know she doesn't like to drive in the rain.  But then, neither do I anymore.  I have to rehang my dog collage this morning, because the hook that Steph and I chose to use wasn't quite strong enough.  You can only get so much from those hooks without holes.  Otherwise, not much on the agenda today, so it is.....Tea time.

Good morning GH.  I have the distinct pleasure of waking up in GH again this AM,  A look out the Weather Window shows a cloudy sky and Sugar the Weather Dog is still in her bed.  That leaves this intrepid forecaster to predict that the day will be partially cloudy and given the temperature in the house (slightly cool), the day will be pleasant and partially cloudy.  That is just one man's opinion based on months of observation and on the fact that Sugar the Weather Dog isn't predicting a storm, at least not yet.  Both the desktop and the National Weather Service, via the Weather.com site, show a current temperature in GH of 47 degrees,    Weather.com is expecting a high of 70 degrees and a 10% chance of rain until later this evening; which seems to correspond with the weather guy on the radio.  There's a first.  I got some of my things done on my list yesterday, so that's a good thing.  Gained three more quarters in my full contact coin collecting competition, and I also got the information for Steph regarding the Y which she wanted.  I'll send that to her in a separate email.  Otherwise, I plan to play the guitar some, do some painting, which I did partially on the chess pieces yesterday, thanks Adam, and just generally kick back.  Mary made some super stir fry yesterday for dinner, and today I'll find out if her skills at banana bread are as good as they ever were, when I have my breakfast.   Weather permitting, yeah I see the irony in that statement, I plan to ride my bike some today.  Meanwhile, it is.....Tea time.