Just for Fun

Memorial Day is a time to remember our fallen. Many use this weekend as an official start to Summer with a cookout. My wife has always joked, because of my love of using a grill to cook (I don't know of any other way). She calls it Mike's Bar and Grill and even got a glass and tray made with the title. It's at our home.Our family and neighbors have opined that what I produce on the grill is really good. I thought so but to me, it never had that steakhouse flavor. So, I was looking for a way to up my game. I found it. Now you can do it too with the Schwank 1500 Degree Portable Infrared Grill.Only the best steakhouses use infrared technology to cook the juiciest steaks. The Schwank Grill company has been providing top steakhouses with their grills for over 40 years. Now they're available ... 05/24/2025

Oh, the nostalgia of a tree swing! Anytime I see a tree swing, it brings me back to simpler days, warm summer days, lemonade, and skinned-up knees. There is just something so wonderful about swinging away under a majestic and stately tree.I found this swing at an antiques festival and knew the perfect location in my yard. I cannot wait for the Grands to arrive over the 4th of July to watch them enjoy this swing. I pray it will help to forge wonderful memories when they visit our home.Swings truly do provide a respite from the stress of everyday life. Had a bad day? Go, find a swing, and, allow the wind to flow across your face as you allow the stress to melt away. Go and give it a try!Let those feet fly through the air and simply give in to the nostalgia of a tree swing! I know it will ... 05/24/2025

Trivia question answers for Friday May 23, 20251. What year saw the release of the first "Planet of the Apes" movie? 19682. Autophobia is the fear of what? Being alone3. What is the official flower of Easter? White Lillies4. What is the shortest standard reply on a Magic 8-Ball? YesTrivia questions for Saturday May 24, 20251. What animal in son Levi's logo?2. What is the term for 100,000 BTU's?3. How many sides are there on a pentagon?4. The synodic mont starts with a new what?Enjoy your day.  05/24/2025

This Week…Bird Duty Reading that Sunday is Neighbor Day, I was reminded how blessed Larry and I have been to have had good neighbors wherever we lived. If you burn your neighbor's house down, it doesn't make your house look any better. Lou HoltzYesterday (Friday), the bluebird chicks began to fledge. It’s what they’re supposed to do…like our children…leave the nest.  Until mom and dad can coax them into the safety of a tall tree, the chicks are at risk from cats, dogs, larger birds, and snakes!  They don’t fledge all at once, either.  Wherever there are birds, there is hope. Mehmet Murat IldanWhen the birds began to fledge, one went into our neighbor’s backyard. Just as Larry called to give Phyllis a heads-up, she let her dog out. I’m sure her dog was as curious about the visitor as the... 05/24/2025

Creating a Relaxing Outdoor Space: Tips for Your Lakefront Home (On a Budget) Transform your lakefront yard into a serene retreat with a few simple upgrades. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying quiet solitude, creating a relaxing outdoor space doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips for building your ideal outdoor haven, plus where to find big sales to help you save along the way. 1. Choosing the Right Furniture The right furniture can make your outdoor space both comfortable and stylish. Look for durable, weather-resistant materials such as wicker, metal, or teak. Many big box stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart are currently offering seasonal sales on patio sets, from chaise lounges to complete dining sets, so you can upgrade your outdoor furniture witho... 05/23/2025

May 24th Puzzle - National Scavenger Hunt Day:I have created a new word search puzzle for you to enjoy.Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal.  05/24/2025

Creating a Relaxing Outdoor Space: Tips for Your Lakefront Home (On a Budget)Transform your lakefront yard into a serene retreat with a few simple upgrades. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying quiet solitude, creating a relaxing outdoor space doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips for building your ideal outdoor haven, plus where to find big sales to help you save along the way.1. Choosing the Right Furniture The right furniture can make your outdoor space both comfortable and stylish. Look for durable, weather-resistant materials such as wicker, metal, or teak. Many big box stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Walmart are currently offering seasonal sales on patio sets, from chaise lounges to complete dining sets, so you can upgrade your outdoor furniture without ... 05/23/2025

The dilemma so well illustrated in Timmothy's cartoon above is a very common one in a climate that has long Springs and Falls with wild swings in temperatures like we have in North Dakota.I'm sure that none of us wish to waste energy as we know it will hit us in the pocketbook on the next months bills. We are currently in that time frame where it may be close to freezing in the morning and in the eighties mid afternoon.We choose, and continue to chose, not to have central air conditioning in our home for three major reasons.1) The cost of the initial installation.2) The cost of operation. While the cost of running central air is less then window operated AC units people tend to use central air when it isn't actually needed.3) Closely related to point number two is we love fresh air. We ... 05/23/2025

Winding Stairs Road: A Scenic Sunday Drive Through the ForestIf you're looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Upstate, take a leisurely drive along Winding Stairs Road. This hidden gem offers a serene, gravel forest service road that meanders through lush woodlands, showcasing breathtaking waterfalls, vibrant flora, and stunning vistas. It’s the perfect escape for a quiet Sunday drive, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle.1. The Road Less Traveled Winding Stairs Road begins at Highway 107 and winds through the dense forests of the Upstate, offering a tranquil alternative to busy highways. This gravel road is perfect for a slow-paced drive, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the journey at your own pace. The winding path through the tree... 05/23/2025

Why Dahlias Are a Great Flower for Your Garden in Walhalla SC?When it comes to creating a vibrant, eye-catching garden, few flowers are as versatile and stunning as dahlias. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, dahlias can be an excellent choice for adding color, texture, and variety to your landscape. Here’s why dahlias are a fantastic option for your garden:1. A Wide Range of Colors and Shapes One of the most appealing features of dahlias is the sheer variety of colors and shapes they come in. From vibrant reds, pinks, and oranges to subtle whites, purples, and yellows, dahlias can complement any garden palette. You’ll find them in single, pom-pom, cactus, and decorative forms, among others. Whether you're looking for a bold statement or a subtle accent, dahlias... 05/23/2025

The Lawrence Welk Show is an American televised musical variety show hosted by big band leader Lawrence Welk. The series aired locally in Los Angeles for four years, from 1951 to 1955, then nationally for another 16 years on ABC from 1955 to 1971, followed by 11 years in first-run syndication from 1971 to 1982. Lawrence was a North Dakota boy so here he is a bit of a hero. He labeled his show as Champagne music and the show always began with a lot of bubbles produced by some kind of bubble machine (the machine was never shown but it captivated little boys like me). I can't think of a Real Estate tie in (can you?) so I'll just label this post as a tribute to a North Dakota boy.I am still trying to get caught up after a very busy/successful week. For the last three days I have have been d... 05/23/2025

What Every Boater Needs to KnowWhen most people think of driving under the influence (DUI), they imagine a car on the road, but did you know that you can also get a DUI while driving a boat? It’s called Boating Under the Influence (BUI), and the consequences can be just as severe as a DUI in a vehicle.What Is BUI?Boating Under the Influence is the act of operating a watercraft while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other substances. Just like driving a car, operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal and can lead to fines, arrests, or even worse, tragic accidents.In South Carolina, the law is clear: if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with BUI. However, even if your BAC is under 0.08%, if an officer believes your ability to operate the boat i... 05/23/2025

Trivia question answers for Thursday May 22, 20251. What is the term for low blood sugar? hypoglycemia2. The Whiffle Ball was named after the slang for what? Striking out3. What is Nike's signature symbol called? The swoosh4. The Bermuda Triangle is located in what ocean? AtlanticTrivia questions for Friday May 23, 20251. What year saw the release of the first "Planet of the Apes" movie?2. Autophobia is the fear of what?3. What is the official flower of Easter?4. What is the shortest standard reply on a Magic 8-Ball?Enjoy your day.  05/23/2025

Friday Fun…Pets and Showings! I’m going out on a limb, but I think most of us here love our pets. However…as agents, stagers, lenders, and inspectors, the non-human occupants can be troublesome. When we showed our home years ago, our Brittany was blind and weighed about 45 pounds. Before every showing, I lifted Lucky into the back of my Expedition so she wouldn’t frighten the buyers and so they wouldn’t frighten her.  This is what you do when you’re selling! Remove anything or anyone that will distract and detract from the showing! When I was providing staging consultations, I encountered many pets that might have distracted a buyer.  For example, one seller had a covered aquarium with a large lizard in it. It was sitting on the kitchen counter. No way you could miss it.  The agent and ... 05/23/2025

May 23rd Puzzle - National Taffy Day:I have created a new word search puzzle for you to enjoy.Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal.   05/23/2025

Friday Flags: In Galloway, NJ Every Day is Memorial DayLate in March of this year, we spent a weekend away at a resort in Galloway, NJ, which is across the water from Atlantic City, NJ.On a morning when we went out for breakfast, the wind was blowing hard, and as I always look for the right flag for this weekly post, I caught a few. The one that was most impressive, I saved for this weekend post as it is most fitting for Memorial Day.This community had established a special area to honor the fallen members of their community some going back to honor one family's dedication going back to the War of 1812.   The anchor memorial has a very simple inscription: In Memory ofThose who have made the Supreme SacrificeBecause of ThemOur Lives Are FreeThe bricks that are all over the area have name... 05/23/2025

 The Elkins Home Selling Team with Elite Realty Group provides services with Morristown TN Real Estate For Sale and Morristown TN Homes For Sale to home buyers and home sellers in Morristown Tennessee, Whitesburg, Talbott, Russellville, Sevierville, Bean Station, Dandridge, Pigeon Forge and surrounding communities.We specialize in working with Home Sellers in getting their homes listed and sold. We utilize the latest and most up to date marketing materials in assuring the job gets done quickly and with the least amount of hassle. Our homes are listed on over 32 different Real Estate web sites including realtor.com, yahoo.com, trulia.com and many others. Each office independently owned and operated.Elite Realty Group is a full service real estate company serving Morristown TN Real Estate... 05/22/2025

 The Elkins Home Selling Team with Elite Realty Group provides services with Morristown TN Real Estate For Sale and Morristown TN Homes For Sale to home buyers and home sellers in Morristown Tennessee, Whitesburg, Talbott, Russellville, Sevierville, Bean Station, Dandridge, Pigeon Forge and surrounding communities.We specialize in working with Home Sellers in getting their homes listed and sold. We utilize the latest and most up to date marketing materials in assuring the job gets done quickly and with the least amount of hassle. Our homes are listed on over 32 different Real Estate web sites including realtor.com, yahoo.com, trulia.com and many others. Each office independently owned and operated.Elite Realty Group is a full service real estate company serving Morristown TN Real Estate... 05/22/2025

Trivia question answers for Wednesday May 21, 20251. Which company introduced Comet Cleanser back in 1956? Proctor & Gamble2. In what decade was the first test tube baby born? 1970's3. What was the nickname of 1930's public enemy George Kelly? Machine Gun4. How often does your stomach manufacture a new lining? Every three daysTrivia questions for Thursday May 22, 20251. What is the term for low blood sugar?2. The Whiffle Ball was named after the slang for what?3. What is Nike's signature symbol called?4. The Bermuda Triangle is located in what ocean?Enjoy your day.  05/22/2025

Thankful Thursdays…Thank You for Whoever YOU Are Whoever you are, thank you for being you.  Today is International Being You Day, and it reminded me that each one of us is a different You! We are pulled by society to conform…to think as others think…wear the same styles…drive, eat, believe, etc AND YET…We admire those who are true to who they are.  What a push and pull.It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not. Andre Gide  It begins before we are aware we’re being molded. Every parent wants their baby to say their first words when other infants do. Our teenage years are when we are the most vulnerable to the pressures to conform to our peers.  We’re human…we want to fit in and be accepted, even if who we become isn’t who we are or want to be.  Tatto... 05/22/2025