Into Everyone's Life Some Rain Must Fall

It's horrible outside today.

"Raining sideways" can hardly describe what's going on out there at this moment.

Not that it's been a bad day, mind you.

I got to take my best friend out for lunch.

That's a rare treat for a couple of reasons.

1. He works full time, but is presently and temporarily "on the bench".

2. We always fight over the check and he has more sneaky ways of taking care of it than I do.

3. Neither of us are big on eating lunch anymore. We both sort of "pick" through the day.

Still, we headed out into the wilds of South Jersey and grabbed a bite to eat.

Honestly, we just sort of "picked" at our lunches. Not that they weren't good. The restaurant is outstanding in my opinion. It's just how we roll these days.

Prior to lunch, we stopped by a local butcher shop and did some light shopping.

I can't tell you folks what a pleasure it is to shop like that. I'm not opposed to supermarkets. I just don't like what they charge for the privilege.

"Doc" picked up some pork chops and tomato-basil egg noodles.

I picked up some ground beef/pork for a meatloaf and a couple of ham hocks that redefine the phrase.

Ham hocks make any bean (or legume) better. Period.

Don't believe me?

Make a big pot of Lima beans, cook them with a ham hock, and serve them over rice.

That's one big plate of "happy" at dinner.

I don't have too much to say today.

Oh, one announcement.

I'm flying.......yes, FLYING.....into Memphis on the weekend of January 6. My birthday falls on that weekend. This year, I'm treating myself to a four day weekend. Two nights in a casino hotel room in Tunica, and a day and a half in Memphis (including a one off guest visit at Sunday FunDay!!!!!).

Please feel free to come visit/gamble with me on Friday or Saturday.

I'll post the reservations/flight times when I book everything in the next few days.

It's been too long since I last treated myself to something nice.

I've never minded doing stuff for other folks, it's one of my long suits. 2012 will start by me doing a nicety for me.

Sure, I could drive back and forth between Tunica, MS and Memphis, TN both days, but why bother? Even if I'm safe to drive, the other guy/gal might not be.

Besides, casinos get fun when the hardcore gamblers roll in.

People watching is not overrated.

Especially on a birthday weekend.

Until the next time, all y'all take care of yourselves.

Air Traffic Mike, ret.