The bird feeders have become quite the popular finch hangout.

February 7, 2017 - Tuesday

20 degrees/freezing rain/calm winds

Pentoga Road

It appears we're in for a few inches of new snow today, that's if this freezing rain changes over. I don't mind snow and a normal rainfall seldom hurt anyone, but never should the two mix.

Monday was a pleasant day. With temperatures in the twenties, little wind, and lots of sunshine, it was a nice day to be outside.

I completed my walk without difficulty and once home, drove to town. 

There was a stop at the post office, another at the thrift store to drop off some unwanted items, and then to the Verizon Store to replace a guaranteed-for-life screen protector for my iPhone. 

I get tired of these places that don't quite get around to telling a customer all the in's and out's of a transaction. I paid $45 for a glass screen protector two months ago and was told if it ever got a scratch, breaks, or cracks, to bring it back for a free replacement. That's what I did yesterday.

The kid who waited on me got on his computer then said, "Okay, that'll be $4.95."

I asked him why the cost and he said to cover shipping and handling.

I've purchased plastic Walmart protectors for less than $5 that lasted longer. Needless to say, we had a man to boy talk and eventually came to an agreement that there'd be no shipping and handling costs. 

I was amazed that there were two other customers having quite heated discussions with Verizon employees concerning their bills. I told the boy who waited on me that they must pay him some big bucks to work in a place where most customers seem so angry. 

He didn't reply. 

I'd switch providers, but when it comes to reception, Verizon is the only game around. Ah, the thrills of living in the North Woods.

I made a final stop at Yooper Brother Mark's plant. It seemed both he and Ann were going around in circles so fast that each was in jeopardy of turning into butter. The phone was ringing and the door was like a merry go round with people coming and going.

For the love of God, Ann, don't shoot. It's not worth it!

Mark, Ann, and I, talked for a minute before I remembered all the reasons why I enjoy retirement and made a hasty exit.

Once home, I started the heat in the shop then ate a quick lunch. The rest of the afternoon was spent turning the saucer to go under the tea cup.

I learned a lot turning that little disk, mostly that it's easier to make something that isn't quite so thin. I tried to add more detail, but the chisel was simply too big. I'm going to have to make my own utensils for very small and detailed work. In fact, that might be one of today's projects.

Time was also spent sanding and painting a scroll saw project. After much work these past couple of weeks, it's beginning to come along. 

A couple of foot traps were set for a rabbit that seems to have grown fond of my blueberry bushes in the garden. He's small enough to hop under the electric fence. 

There are some surprises for that bunny rabbit if he continues to use the bunny trail into my garden and orchard. I hope he does. I haven't had a good rabbit stew in years.

Sargie didn't arrive home until past 7:30 last night. We ate supper in front of the TV while watching Antiques Road Show.

Sargie closes tonight. I just hate the thought of her having to drive to and from Iron Mountain in this glop. If the freezing rain continues, she won't be going anywhere.

I plan to spend the day in the shop. I've got my thoughts on turning a sugar bowl, complete with handles on each side. I'd also like to turn a decorative lid, but I'm not certain I'm skilled enough. 

As Brother Elmer, my Inupiaq friend from Kotzebue, Alaska, used to tell me, "Only fear is holding you back."

Yeah, well, I'm not afraid, I'm realistic.

Speaking of time, I think I'll go lay down and try to get another hour or two of sleep before Sargie's alarm rings signaling the official beginning of the day. 

After all, a man's work is never done.

So are the tales from Pentoga Road...