They left Friday morning. It's Sunday and I can't wait until she gets back. My wife and four friends left for St. Louis due to a chronic pain of mahjongitis. The only way for this to subside is to have plenty of flowers or enough tiles to overcome too many jokers.
As you can probably tell by reading this, I don't know what the hell I'm talking about. This is a game played (mostly by women) using tiles that are covered with different sorts of symbols. I believe the game contains serious habit forming chemicals passed to the players (4) as they touch the tiles.
But, the jist of this blog is about how much I missed my wife and I WANT HER BACK. I mean when she's home and we sit together watching TV in the evenings we really don't say much to each other. She plays scrabble on her laptop while glancing at the TV and I'm usually immersed in the show. Our conversation is usually limited to when one of us gets up and asks the other "Can I get you anything?" Depending on the time, we'll have a small snack of some kind and resume keeping the mute between us, set to on.
When home alone, I'm constantly on the look for something to eat. I snack all night long. It must be the loneliness. It's too quiet, not hearing her typing on her computer although I actually can't hear any sound as she types. Even tho I knew she wasn't there I still asked her chair if I could get anything when I got up to search for more junk.
I just miss her so much as I look toward her chair and don't see anyone. I should have put her laptop on the chair with her face on the screen and had it pointing to me. It probably would have helped, even a little.
I'm glad the ladies all had a good time even at the expense of my gaining unwanted snacking pounds.
I had two of the other weekend bachelors over to watch the Chief's loss with me but you could tell, we were all hurting and not from the football game. At least, the next time she leaves, I'll be with her. Hopefully the mahjongitis will be satisfied even temporarily.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
EVERY SUNDAY?
Yes, every Sunday. For well over 50 years I've enjoyed my Sunday mornings because of my habit. No, I don't go for a 50 mile bike ride, although I do ride 11.5 miles on my stationary bike.
This is something that started way back when I was a youth growing up in Chicago. Actually it started in my parents grocery store. It was a little harder to accomplish during my two years of service in the Army but being stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu I found a way to indulge myself.
During 18 years of marriage to my son and daughter's mother I continued my obsession. After my divorce, the ten years of single life made it much easier to find a place on Sundays to fullfill my needs.
Now, being married for over 26 years to the most understanding wife in the world, she has allowed me to continue doing what others may see as a sickness.
I don't see it that way. Some people gamble, indulge in sports or simply do obscene things too horrible to mention.
Most of you that know me have already figured out of what I'm speaking about.
This is something that started way back when I was a youth growing up in Chicago. Actually it started in my parents grocery store. It was a little harder to accomplish during my two years of service in the Army but being stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu I found a way to indulge myself.
During 18 years of marriage to my son and daughter's mother I continued my obsession. After my divorce, the ten years of single life made it much easier to find a place on Sundays to fullfill my needs.
Now, being married for over 26 years to the most understanding wife in the world, she has allowed me to continue doing what others may see as a sickness.
I don't see it that way. Some people gamble, indulge in sports or simply do obscene things too horrible to mention.
Most of you that know me have already figured out of what I'm speaking about.
I MUST HAVE LOX AND BAGELS TO START MY WEEK... Yes I'm addicted, I confess. However, I have just found a smaller bagel that's less than 1/2 the calories of a regular size. It's the same in width but smaller in height and weight. It toasts great. I smother my bagel with cream cheese, a slice of tomatoe covering the whole width, a slice of red onion, the same size and cover it with a slice of swiss or muenster cheese. I usually make two halves since it takes longer to consume and the rest of my Sunday is that much greater. So, to those of you that might wake up on Sunday feeling depressed, you know what to do. The extra slice shown is because it was the end of the package.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
ABOVE AND BEYOND
I'm talking about service. It's one of those things that seldom happens but when it does, it should be mentioned. The other night, five of us went to dinner at THE OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE at the Oak Park Mall. I hadn't been there for many years because it seemed that we always arrived at the time with the longest wait. Thirty minutes I can handle but anymore, I go elsewhere. It's not like Overland Park is lacking in restaurants.
We arrived around 6pm and were seated immediately. Our waiter Richie or Richard came over to take our drink order. He's a tall kid with a chest full of medals from around the world, at least 40 or 50 and a great personality. Two in our party ordered sirloin steaks rare plus. I think that means, not quite moving but still oozing. When the orders arrived we all started to enjoy our meals, all except one of our group whose steak was more than a little overdone but OK enough to eat. Richie came by to see if everything was satifactory and when he was told about the one steak not being right, he offered to replace it. "No it's OK, I'll eat it this way" was her response.
Normally you would think that would be it. He would forget about it and go about his business, But Lo and Behold, 2 minutes later the manager Turner Friedman comes over and insists that the steak be replaced. After a few minutes of cajoling she says OK and he takes the steak to replace with another. A few minutes later he returns with the replacement steak and apologizes for the error, which is readily accepted, but and here's the big BUT, it's still not right, in fact, this one never saw a flame. He's frustrated and embarrassed, again offering more apologies but insists that they get it right this time. He takes the second dish back to the kitchen and I can just imagine what he's telling the cook. After all it's a steak house, they should know how to cook a steak, in fact all of our other orders were perfect and very tasty.
He returns this time with another steak, waits until she tries it and then thanks her (who through all this has remained friendly and not at all perturbed) for being so nice and understanding. Her steak was perfect but she ended up with two potatoes which she took home.
A thank you to our waiter Ritchie, who did not just let it go, but told his manager Turner who had to make sure that all was perfect, I give a big 5 belches, my highest award for a restaurant. If you want a steak, done right, try OUTBACK at the OAK PARK MALL.
After dinner my friends, one of whom had the two potatoes, and her gentleman went home for a little S&M***.
***spite & malice, what did you think I meant? But who knows what goes on behind closed doors.
We arrived around 6pm and were seated immediately. Our waiter Richie or Richard came over to take our drink order. He's a tall kid with a chest full of medals from around the world, at least 40 or 50 and a great personality. Two in our party ordered sirloin steaks rare plus. I think that means, not quite moving but still oozing. When the orders arrived we all started to enjoy our meals, all except one of our group whose steak was more than a little overdone but OK enough to eat. Richie came by to see if everything was satifactory and when he was told about the one steak not being right, he offered to replace it. "No it's OK, I'll eat it this way" was her response.
Normally you would think that would be it. He would forget about it and go about his business, But Lo and Behold, 2 minutes later the manager Turner Friedman comes over and insists that the steak be replaced. After a few minutes of cajoling she says OK and he takes the steak to replace with another. A few minutes later he returns with the replacement steak and apologizes for the error, which is readily accepted, but and here's the big BUT, it's still not right, in fact, this one never saw a flame. He's frustrated and embarrassed, again offering more apologies but insists that they get it right this time. He takes the second dish back to the kitchen and I can just imagine what he's telling the cook. After all it's a steak house, they should know how to cook a steak, in fact all of our other orders were perfect and very tasty.
He returns this time with another steak, waits until she tries it and then thanks her (who through all this has remained friendly and not at all perturbed) for being so nice and understanding. Her steak was perfect but she ended up with two potatoes which she took home.
A thank you to our waiter Ritchie, who did not just let it go, but told his manager Turner who had to make sure that all was perfect, I give a big 5 belches, my highest award for a restaurant. If you want a steak, done right, try OUTBACK at the OAK PARK MALL.
After dinner my friends, one of whom had the two potatoes, and her gentleman went home for a little S&M***.
***spite & malice, what did you think I meant? But who knows what goes on behind closed doors.
Friday, August 20, 2010
A PINT WILL DO!
In September of last year I wrote a negative blog about donating blood. It was a bad time since the techs that worked on me were new or just wanted to inflict pain on this old guy. The more pokes they made could possibly leave enough holes to spurt blood in five different directions.
Today however, I decided to give them another chance because blood is needed. Kate, was my tech today and she was wonderful. One stick, she was in, a few pumps and five minutes later I had given a pint. She was sooo good I didn't feel the needle insertion. What I'm trying to say is that today's donation was indeed a pleasure and if you're able to give, do it. It might save your life some day or that of a loved one.
The donation started off pretty well when I checked in and they took all the information. My head swelled again as the two people at registration had to call their superior over to double check my i.d.. They didn't believe I was 75. Yes, I know, you're all tired of hearing me talk about people not believing my age. Yes, it makes me feel good and why shouldn't it. I work hard to maintain this chisled body and boyish face. I keep thanking DOVE soap but it's really my Mother's side of the family that had that youthful look all their lives.
Today however, I decided to give them another chance because blood is needed. Kate, was my tech today and she was wonderful. One stick, she was in, a few pumps and five minutes later I had given a pint. She was sooo good I didn't feel the needle insertion. What I'm trying to say is that today's donation was indeed a pleasure and if you're able to give, do it. It might save your life some day or that of a loved one.
The donation started off pretty well when I checked in and they took all the information. My head swelled again as the two people at registration had to call their superior over to double check my i.d.. They didn't believe I was 75. Yes, I know, you're all tired of hearing me talk about people not believing my age. Yes, it makes me feel good and why shouldn't it. I work hard to maintain this chisled body and boyish face. I keep thanking DOVE soap but it's really my Mother's side of the family that had that youthful look all their lives.
It could be the area they came from in Russia. My inherited genes have me, my son, grandson and great grandson all looking like my Dad but the minus ten to fifteen year appearance comes from my Mom. I do admit that I sometimes goad people into guessing my age, which they never do. When my head swells it decreases the wrinkles. I'll include a recent photo so you can see for yourself.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
YOU HAVE A BETTER ONE
For approximately five or six years I have been telling anyone that wished me a good day, to have a better one. Lo and Behold, my response has taken on an unbelievable journey. No matter where I go, ie; the bank, the grocery, my vendors warehouses, my fitness center, the pool, just about anyplace where I've met or introduced myself, they are all respondoing to me with "You have a better one"
I just thought it would bring a smile, to which I'm addicted, to the face of those I interact, but it seems that they can't wait to use it. Every teller or exec at my bank can't wait until I show up but now they use it all the time with everyone they come in contact with during their work day and personal life.
It's just a meaningless statement, or so I thought but it has caught on and I feel that I started something that people really enjoy saying to one another and they smile when they do it. I don't know who first said it but if you smile more you'll add 25 years to your life. I'm not quite sure of the number but even one, would be nice.
I'm sorry that it's taken me so long to BLOG but I'll try to get back on track for a weekly RONNIEISMS. Have a better day!
I just thought it would bring a smile, to which I'm addicted, to the face of those I interact, but it seems that they can't wait to use it. Every teller or exec at my bank can't wait until I show up but now they use it all the time with everyone they come in contact with during their work day and personal life.
It's just a meaningless statement, or so I thought but it has caught on and I feel that I started something that people really enjoy saying to one another and they smile when they do it. I don't know who first said it but if you smile more you'll add 25 years to your life. I'm not quite sure of the number but even one, would be nice.
I'm sorry that it's taken me so long to BLOG but I'll try to get back on track for a weekly RONNIEISMS. Have a better day!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
UNWANTED PHONE CALLS
The other morning my wife and I were home when the phone rang. She was in the bathroom using her water pic and I was at the computer. We both picked it up at the same time and when she heard my voice she said "You take it", which I did.
Yes, it was someone calling for a donation of some sort and as usual I was going to be polite and tell them no thanks before I hung up. As she was speaking I heard this loud noise like a garbage disposal or mixer coming through my earpiece. It was very disturbing and loud. I asked the woman on the other line if she also heard it. I could barely hear her answer "YES". "Is it coming from your end?, I asked. "No I don't think so" she replied. "Well it's not coming from my phone and I can't hear you so I'm hanging up." Which I did.
About three or four minutes later I walked into the bathroom where my wife was still using the waterpick and I started to tell her what happened on the call when I noticed her phone lying on the sink. Yes, she never hung up the phone and the noise was coming from her machine. Well, that's one way to get rid of an un-solicited call.
Another way to stop these calls is to tell the caller "Hold on a second" and put the phone down. About a minute later you'll hear the beeping noise telling you they've hung up. Or you can say "I'll call you right back" and hang up. I know that most of these people are just doing their job so I try not to be overly rude but if you'd be so kind and e-mail me your phone number, I'll be sure to pass it on. Don't forget to also leave your date of birth and social security number.
Yes, it was someone calling for a donation of some sort and as usual I was going to be polite and tell them no thanks before I hung up. As she was speaking I heard this loud noise like a garbage disposal or mixer coming through my earpiece. It was very disturbing and loud. I asked the woman on the other line if she also heard it. I could barely hear her answer "YES". "Is it coming from your end?, I asked. "No I don't think so" she replied. "Well it's not coming from my phone and I can't hear you so I'm hanging up." Which I did.
About three or four minutes later I walked into the bathroom where my wife was still using the waterpick and I started to tell her what happened on the call when I noticed her phone lying on the sink. Yes, she never hung up the phone and the noise was coming from her machine. Well, that's one way to get rid of an un-solicited call.
Another way to stop these calls is to tell the caller "Hold on a second" and put the phone down. About a minute later you'll hear the beeping noise telling you they've hung up. Or you can say "I'll call you right back" and hang up. I know that most of these people are just doing their job so I try not to be overly rude but if you'd be so kind and e-mail me your phone number, I'll be sure to pass it on. Don't forget to also leave your date of birth and social security number.
Monday, July 12, 2010
SHE'S A CHALLAH MACHINE
Saturday evening my wife asked me to bring in her two bread machines from the garage. "It's supposed to rain all day tomorrow" she says. "I think I'll make some bread". To her, making bread means, making challah, her great tasting egg bread. The recipe is usually handed down from Mother to Daughter but since the invention of the bread machine, the procees has changed.
"It's time to bake for the holidays" she tells me. OK that means at least three or four loaves. She has to have enough to give to the kids to take home. After about two hours into the baking a loud "Oh sh-t" is heard, one of the machines has burned up. The machine was one of the first she had purchased and I guess it had run it's time and decided to retire from the kneading torture. "Honey, she always calls me Honey when she wants me to go to Target, can you run up to Target and get me another machine?" Off I went, "Oh, I also need some yeast, more bread flour and sugar", she added.
The reason I called her a machine is because by the end of the afternoon she had baked 9 challahs after throwing away the one that was in the machine when it fatally expired. After each one would come out of the Breadman she would put it on a tray and lay it covered with a dark cloth on the hood of her car, to rise. Her next step would be to put egg wash and poppy seeds on the top and into the oven to bake, rise a little more and remove a beautiful golden brown challah.
This year she did not braid the challah as she did in the past and instead of long loaves, they were round, it was easier on the hands, but still as delicious as ever. Our apartment smelled like the old time bakeries. She added yellow raisins to about half for those that love that additional sweet taste.
"It's time to bake for the holidays" she tells me. OK that means at least three or four loaves. She has to have enough to give to the kids to take home. After about two hours into the baking a loud "Oh sh-t" is heard, one of the machines has burned up. The machine was one of the first she had purchased and I guess it had run it's time and decided to retire from the kneading torture. "Honey, she always calls me Honey when she wants me to go to Target, can you run up to Target and get me another machine?" Off I went, "Oh, I also need some yeast, more bread flour and sugar", she added.
The reason I called her a machine is because by the end of the afternoon she had baked 9 challahs after throwing away the one that was in the machine when it fatally expired. After each one would come out of the Breadman she would put it on a tray and lay it covered with a dark cloth on the hood of her car, to rise. Her next step would be to put egg wash and poppy seeds on the top and into the oven to bake, rise a little more and remove a beautiful golden brown challah.
This year she did not braid the challah as she did in the past and instead of long loaves, they were round, it was easier on the hands, but still as delicious as ever. Our apartment smelled like the old time bakeries. She added yellow raisins to about half for those that love that additional sweet taste.
Later, after everything was put away, she collapsed into her chair and exclaimed "I'm done for the day, what are you (me) fixing for dinner?" If she hadn't had her shot during the week, there is no way she could have stood for that long. Thank goodness the spasms were disappearing. The photos below are not actually correct but I put them in for effect. I'm sorry that most of you will not be able to share this wonderful treat, baked by my wonderful wife.
If she had braided
Forming the challah
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