It didn't take me long to get the chainsaw out of Gozer's basement. We've got a great looking Besler wood stove and I was anxious to see how well it would heat the farms house. I hadn't used the saw in several months, so I touched up and tightened the chain, checked the bar oil rez, fueled up, and headed into the "wilderness".
Really...every deciduous tree here needs major surgery, and though I haven't counted them, I'd guess there are 40 or so big elms that need serious attention. Years of "let it grow" maintenance, followed by storm damage have left a mess of down or should be down wood just begging for the chainsaws bite.
Just a couple pulls on the rope and the Homelite fired right up. There is so much brush and down limbs that me and the chainsaw have to practically saw our way to the first tree we came to. This was an impressive tree at one time, but it's split and broken and looks pretty sad, but after a couple hours of chainsaw love, the old tree is starting to look like it will provide years of summer shade again, and I've got a good load of wood to test the old Besler wood stove.
So just one of the major projects around the farm is cleanup and maintenance. I imagine I'll be spending much of the winter taking apart as much wood as I can so the place starts to look a little like somebody cares about it. So far, my efforts are totally lost in the "wilderness" of brush and other materials laying around, but as I've said before...I've got time and determination on my side, and Rome wasn't built in a day either.
The Besler wood stove preformed way beyond my expectations! 2 thumbs up and 5 stars!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
Moving Day
We did it! We spent our first night in the farm house last night. It seems like more work than we at first thought, and less too. The scrubbing isn't finished yet, we've got our camping furniture inside to sit on, and a Coleman air bed for sleeping arrangements. Our refrigerator has food in it and is making ice, and some of the kitchen cabinets have food and cooking utensils.
It's going to take a while to feel totally comfortable here. The house was infested with mice, so the clean up has been never ending it seems. We're sure we got the little buggers, but as bad as it was, we may always wonder if we got them all. Every dark speck on the floor is subject to close inspection for the time being.
We've got cables running to and from the motor home with power to, and satellite signals into the house. The TV is working, we bought a radio and microwave, and I even had time to fire up the chain saw for a half hour.
We had our first fire in the wood stove, ate our first supper inside, and generally are enjoying our new surroundings. We've nearly filled our dumpster and still have a week to go until our scheduled trash pickup, so it's a good thing we've got almost everything thrown out that really needed to go. I can wait to tackle the barn and it's old contents.
We're enjoying the friendly people and wildlife everywhere we go, and the more time we're here, the more positive we are we made the right decision on where to settle down.
It's going to take a while to feel totally comfortable here. The house was infested with mice, so the clean up has been never ending it seems. We're sure we got the little buggers, but as bad as it was, we may always wonder if we got them all. Every dark speck on the floor is subject to close inspection for the time being.
We've got cables running to and from the motor home with power to, and satellite signals into the house. The TV is working, we bought a radio and microwave, and I even had time to fire up the chain saw for a half hour.
We had our first fire in the wood stove, ate our first supper inside, and generally are enjoying our new surroundings. We've nearly filled our dumpster and still have a week to go until our scheduled trash pickup, so it's a good thing we've got almost everything thrown out that really needed to go. I can wait to tackle the barn and it's old contents.
We're enjoying the friendly people and wildlife everywhere we go, and the more time we're here, the more positive we are we made the right decision on where to settle down.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Old Mr. Boston
During our journey into the farms past, we've come across mostly unusable things, but one item got me excited. An old book with brown tinged pages with an art drawing of a man with muttonchop sideburns and top hat. The book is so dirty that it's difficult to read the books title, but a little rubbing reveals "Old Mr. Boston De Lux Official Bartender Guide Price $2".
Now I've seen Jay Leno plenty of times showing stuff people buy on EBay, so I start to get excited. Perhaps this is a rare copy of an out of print book that is highly prized by book collectors. I slowly open the cover of the dusty old manual and the first words are "Become a Magician - Learn 74 unique tricks to mystify and entertain..." Wow! Even if the book is worthless, I'll learn unique tricks!
After a very short Internet search for Old Mr. Boston, I discovered that my 1957 edition might be worth as much as $9 if in perfect condition...which this isn't. Ah well, even if the book isn't worth much, I'll learn unique tricks like card, coin, and napkin magic guaranteed to mystify my friends.
Anybody want a free book?
Now I've seen Jay Leno plenty of times showing stuff people buy on EBay, so I start to get excited. Perhaps this is a rare copy of an out of print book that is highly prized by book collectors. I slowly open the cover of the dusty old manual and the first words are "Become a Magician - Learn 74 unique tricks to mystify and entertain..." Wow! Even if the book is worthless, I'll learn unique tricks!
After a very short Internet search for Old Mr. Boston, I discovered that my 1957 edition might be worth as much as $9 if in perfect condition...which this isn't. Ah well, even if the book isn't worth much, I'll learn unique tricks like card, coin, and napkin magic guaranteed to mystify my friends.
Anybody want a free book?
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Rug Doctor
We've been cleaning for over a week now, and are almost ready to 'move' into the farm's house. We've scrubbed, scraped, wiped, vacuumed, and rented one of the worlds great inventions...a Rug Doctor.
What? You never heard of a Rug Doctor? A Rug Doctor is a carpet cleaning machine that you can rent, and my experience with them is nothing short of miraculous. These marvelous machines are ready for those of us that enjoy tackling around the house projects, and don't mind saving some money in the process.
These things are not for everybody. They are easy to operate, but you must dump dirty water, and fill clean water mixed with cleaning chemicals. It takes time, and most people will feel like they accomplished something (you'll likely be sore) after working the dumb end of the machine for a day or so.
My recommendation comes from the 3 times I've rented. The first removed grease and oil from carpet that had been used as garage space for a Harley Davidson, the second removed pine pitch from firewood that had been stacked inside on carpet, and now the farm and it's pet stains. The first place was the worst, the farm about the same as the firewood place. The Rug Doctor removed stains, odors, and I couldn't be happier with the results.
So if you have a dirty carpet and don't mind spending the time to do it yourself, I don't see how you could go wrong renting what I consider one of the great inventions.
What? You never heard of a Rug Doctor? A Rug Doctor is a carpet cleaning machine that you can rent, and my experience with them is nothing short of miraculous. These marvelous machines are ready for those of us that enjoy tackling around the house projects, and don't mind saving some money in the process.
These things are not for everybody. They are easy to operate, but you must dump dirty water, and fill clean water mixed with cleaning chemicals. It takes time, and most people will feel like they accomplished something (you'll likely be sore) after working the dumb end of the machine for a day or so.
My recommendation comes from the 3 times I've rented. The first removed grease and oil from carpet that had been used as garage space for a Harley Davidson, the second removed pine pitch from firewood that had been stacked inside on carpet, and now the farm and it's pet stains. The first place was the worst, the farm about the same as the firewood place. The Rug Doctor removed stains, odors, and I couldn't be happier with the results.
So if you have a dirty carpet and don't mind spending the time to do it yourself, I don't see how you could go wrong renting what I consider one of the great inventions.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Country Lights
Merry Christmas!
HoHoHo! Santa actually found us at the farm. He didn't bring that new JD tractor, that I was dreaming about, but he left some pretty cool stuff to help make the farm our home. The weather forecast is for snow all day and tonight, so this is turning into our first white Christmas in many years.
I suppose everybody that lives up these country roads has studded snow tires. They must have...I mean...if I drove the Jeep up these roads at the speeds people pass by here, I'd roll over in the ditch I'm afraid. Now I admit that the short wheelbase makes things more interesting, and I could lock in the hubs and use 4x4, but we're not in a hurry, and the ice packed roads are only a minor inconvenience to us.
Speaking of country roads, we've noticed some Christmas lights flashing off to our west, but as near as we could tell, they appeared to be in a nearby valley, and not on any of the roads we've explored yet. Last night we ventured out to find the flashing farm.
We found the isolated farm just a mile or so as the crow flies from our place. The house sits well off the road, and the lights are primarily directed to the east (towards our place) which I believe is the front of the house. This is a bit unusual to me as the road makes a 90 degree turn and passes by the home on the south, so that most passersby don't get to see the full light show.
To be honest, I almost feel like that farmer put his lights out just for us to enjoy, because we have a great view of his full outdoor light show from the farm, and as near as I can tell, we're about the only folks that can see it well.
So Mr. Farmer at the corner of 724 and 408...Thank You!
"And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of site, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night."
HoHoHo! Santa actually found us at the farm. He didn't bring that new JD tractor, that I was dreaming about, but he left some pretty cool stuff to help make the farm our home. The weather forecast is for snow all day and tonight, so this is turning into our first white Christmas in many years.
I suppose everybody that lives up these country roads has studded snow tires. They must have...I mean...if I drove the Jeep up these roads at the speeds people pass by here, I'd roll over in the ditch I'm afraid. Now I admit that the short wheelbase makes things more interesting, and I could lock in the hubs and use 4x4, but we're not in a hurry, and the ice packed roads are only a minor inconvenience to us.
Speaking of country roads, we've noticed some Christmas lights flashing off to our west, but as near as we could tell, they appeared to be in a nearby valley, and not on any of the roads we've explored yet. Last night we ventured out to find the flashing farm.
We found the isolated farm just a mile or so as the crow flies from our place. The house sits well off the road, and the lights are primarily directed to the east (towards our place) which I believe is the front of the house. This is a bit unusual to me as the road makes a 90 degree turn and passes by the home on the south, so that most passersby don't get to see the full light show.
To be honest, I almost feel like that farmer put his lights out just for us to enjoy, because we have a great view of his full outdoor light show from the farm, and as near as I can tell, we're about the only folks that can see it well.
So Mr. Farmer at the corner of 724 and 408...Thank You!
"And I heard him exclaim as he rode out of site, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night."
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Presents Under The Tree
I just got up and I'm tired already. You see, I just looked out Gozer's window at the farm house, and the level of work needed to get the place ready to move into is daunting. The more work we do around the farm, the less we feel we are getting done.
The house has been upgraded over the years with some very expensive and time consuming renovations. For example, the house was raised a couple feet and a new concrete floor and block wall foundation built creating a complete full basement which previous owners had finished quite nicely. Electrical and plumbing all were rearranged and upgraded. I think the fastest way to improve something in the old days was to cover up the old layer with someting new. From the peel and stick tiles on top of carpet and hardwood flooring, to multiple layers of wallpaper, the previous residents decorating ideas clash with the current owners ideas, so we're gonna yank, pull, and pry our way through the past.
To the city slicker in me, the house isn't planned well at all. Margie had several relatives that lived on farms in Minnesota that she visited over the years, and she says it's a farm house designed for one thing...a place to eat and sleep so you could work outside all day. Either way, it's got to change to become our dream home. Walls will come down, doors will disappear, and windows appear when non have been before.
We bought 5 acres of work, play, or health spa depending on your point of view. We're into sweat equity, and we think we found just the place to invest it. We had a dumpster delivered and it's 1/2 full after only a few hours of cleaning, and we're just starting to clean out the ignored nooks and craneys and remove things others have left behind of little value. We're fortunate to have the time to renovate the way we want, and not have to work around trying to run a farm at the same time the house is being rebuilt. You see...I'm slow.
Brother Gary showed up late last night with a freshly cut Colorado Christmas tree for us complete with decorations, as well as a refrigerator. Refer was shipped on it's side from Colorado, so it's now standing up, and we hope a day or so of uprightness before plugging it in will find it still works. The price on it was right...free. Father in law's church got new appliances when they completed a big expansion project and was giving it away. Timing is everything sometimes! He also brought wrapped presents from the family, so even though the only furniture in the place is a couple camping chairs, it looks like Christmas.
We've got 3 vacuum cleaners (Brenda at McCook Abstract mentioned that if you have 3 of anything, you have a collection - this is one collection we don't want to start) of various types, and a carpet cleaner reserved for Monday afternoon. Since we don't have to return it until after Christmas, I suppose we'll take advantage of the extra free day use and really get the place cleaned up.
We knew exactly what we were getting into so no complaints, and we're sure glad the grass finally grew so we could get started!
The house has been upgraded over the years with some very expensive and time consuming renovations. For example, the house was raised a couple feet and a new concrete floor and block wall foundation built creating a complete full basement which previous owners had finished quite nicely. Electrical and plumbing all were rearranged and upgraded. I think the fastest way to improve something in the old days was to cover up the old layer with someting new. From the peel and stick tiles on top of carpet and hardwood flooring, to multiple layers of wallpaper, the previous residents decorating ideas clash with the current owners ideas, so we're gonna yank, pull, and pry our way through the past.
To the city slicker in me, the house isn't planned well at all. Margie had several relatives that lived on farms in Minnesota that she visited over the years, and she says it's a farm house designed for one thing...a place to eat and sleep so you could work outside all day. Either way, it's got to change to become our dream home. Walls will come down, doors will disappear, and windows appear when non have been before.
We bought 5 acres of work, play, or health spa depending on your point of view. We're into sweat equity, and we think we found just the place to invest it. We had a dumpster delivered and it's 1/2 full after only a few hours of cleaning, and we're just starting to clean out the ignored nooks and craneys and remove things others have left behind of little value. We're fortunate to have the time to renovate the way we want, and not have to work around trying to run a farm at the same time the house is being rebuilt. You see...I'm slow.
Brother Gary showed up late last night with a freshly cut Colorado Christmas tree for us complete with decorations, as well as a refrigerator. Refer was shipped on it's side from Colorado, so it's now standing up, and we hope a day or so of uprightness before plugging it in will find it still works. The price on it was right...free. Father in law's church got new appliances when they completed a big expansion project and was giving it away. Timing is everything sometimes! He also brought wrapped presents from the family, so even though the only furniture in the place is a couple camping chairs, it looks like Christmas.
We've got 3 vacuum cleaners (Brenda at McCook Abstract mentioned that if you have 3 of anything, you have a collection - this is one collection we don't want to start) of various types, and a carpet cleaner reserved for Monday afternoon. Since we don't have to return it until after Christmas, I suppose we'll take advantage of the extra free day use and really get the place cleaned up.
We knew exactly what we were getting into so no complaints, and we're sure glad the grass finally grew so we could get started!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Rug Pulling
I love maps. There is a lot of information on a map that usually has little to do with navigation, but makes travel more interesting by showing campgrounds, parks, and other points of interest. Now that we're Nebraska residents, I've been looking at maps of the area for interesting things to see or do, and I was reminded of a place we visited a couple years ago... the geographic center of the USA.
Lebanon Kansas, or at least nearby, is the site of the geographic center of the USA...or at least it used to be. Up until 1959 when a couple more states were added to the Union, Lebanon was the center of the free world. If you drive out to the site today, you'll find what looks like the remains of a small motel, and nice monument and picnic tables. The grounds are nicely maintained, and a billboard along the highway proclaims Lebanon the center of the USA.
But the rug got pulled out from under Lebanon's claim to fame in 1959. Even though the "official" center of the USA is now in western South Dakota near Belle Fourche, highway signs proclaim a slowly dimming bit of American history to be just a hop, skip, and a jump off US highway 281.
Maps still show the "Geographical Center of USA" near Lebanon, and if you search Google for the geographical center of the USA, the very first listing is Lebanon, Kansas, followed immediately by information about South Dakota's "new" claim to fame. I found it interesting that Belle Fourche is "moving" the location. It seems they want to take advantage and exploit any possible tourist advantage the site might have by building a visitor center along the nearest US highway which just happens to be about 20 miles from the actual remote location.
So the rug got pulled out from under most of Lebanon's claim to fame in 1959. They can still claim to be the center of the "lower 48", but what remains there to me is another monument to USA expansion, even if it doesn't say that on the billboard.
Lebanon Kansas, or at least nearby, is the site of the geographic center of the USA...or at least it used to be. Up until 1959 when a couple more states were added to the Union, Lebanon was the center of the free world. If you drive out to the site today, you'll find what looks like the remains of a small motel, and nice monument and picnic tables. The grounds are nicely maintained, and a billboard along the highway proclaims Lebanon the center of the USA.
But the rug got pulled out from under Lebanon's claim to fame in 1959. Even though the "official" center of the USA is now in western South Dakota near Belle Fourche, highway signs proclaim a slowly dimming bit of American history to be just a hop, skip, and a jump off US highway 281.
Maps still show the "Geographical Center of USA" near Lebanon, and if you search Google for the geographical center of the USA, the very first listing is Lebanon, Kansas, followed immediately by information about South Dakota's "new" claim to fame. I found it interesting that Belle Fourche is "moving" the location. It seems they want to take advantage and exploit any possible tourist advantage the site might have by building a visitor center along the nearest US highway which just happens to be about 20 miles from the actual remote location.
So the rug got pulled out from under most of Lebanon's claim to fame in 1959. They can still claim to be the center of the "lower 48", but what remains there to me is another monument to USA expansion, even if it doesn't say that on the billboard.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Christmas Songs
One thing I like about blogging is that I can say pretty much whatever I want, and nobody seems to care much one way or the other. I hope you don't mind, but from time to time, I plan on sharing some things I enjoyed finding or have discovered, and with that in mind...
Today I got a great link from a friend of mine to a short video on U-tube. Now I more often than not discard emails with links like the one I got today but the title got me...The 12 Days Of Christmas...Gone Wrong.
If you have a high speed Internet connection, I encourage you to visit http://boortz.com/more/video/12_days_of_xmas.html. It's a 3 1/2 minute acapella presentation that had me laughing out loud, and one that I hope you'll enjoy too.
Today I got a great link from a friend of mine to a short video on U-tube. Now I more often than not discard emails with links like the one I got today but the title got me...The 12 Days Of Christmas...Gone Wrong.
If you have a high speed Internet connection, I encourage you to visit http://boortz.com/more/video/12_days_of_xmas.html. It's a 3 1/2 minute acapella presentation that had me laughing out loud, and one that I hope you'll enjoy too.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Ready Or Not
We've all heard the saying "the job isn't finished 'till the paperwork is done", and though buying the farm hasn't exactly been a job, the paperwork is finished, and we're officially Nebraska property owners!
If you happened to be walking around downtown McCook around 2PM and heard some fool scream Yahoo!... you guessed it, it was me. This is like a dream come true for me. Though the farm needs just about everything, we got time to git-er-done, and turning this little place on top of a hill into our dream home will certainly be a labor of love.
We've got Gozer backed up in front of the barn, I hooked up the power, and we're about to start a whole new adventure with the house and property. I've shoveled some snow, and put a couple Christmas bows on the house, and tomorrow we'll put a couple strings of lights out front.
My father in law, you may recall I mentioned Margie's work-a-holic father, is anxious to get started with his chain saw and helping in whatever way he can. I'm afraid the man is going to work me to death when he gets here, but we can use all the help we can get. My brother in law Gary is an arborist, and he and friends of his plan of working up some of the wood too.
We got to McCook early and had an opportunity to visit several downtown stores. The people inside all smiled, all the customers smiled, I heard "Merry Christmas" in every store I was in, and it was wonderful to us to see the lovely decorations store owners put up to make the season more festive. We even made it into Wal Mart, and thought the parking lot looked full, people were courteous and friendly and it was just different that a big city store.
So all the T's got crossed and the I's dotted so here we are, ready or not.
If you happened to be walking around downtown McCook around 2PM and heard some fool scream Yahoo!... you guessed it, it was me. This is like a dream come true for me. Though the farm needs just about everything, we got time to git-er-done, and turning this little place on top of a hill into our dream home will certainly be a labor of love.
We've got Gozer backed up in front of the barn, I hooked up the power, and we're about to start a whole new adventure with the house and property. I've shoveled some snow, and put a couple Christmas bows on the house, and tomorrow we'll put a couple strings of lights out front.
My father in law, you may recall I mentioned Margie's work-a-holic father, is anxious to get started with his chain saw and helping in whatever way he can. I'm afraid the man is going to work me to death when he gets here, but we can use all the help we can get. My brother in law Gary is an arborist, and he and friends of his plan of working up some of the wood too.
We got to McCook early and had an opportunity to visit several downtown stores. The people inside all smiled, all the customers smiled, I heard "Merry Christmas" in every store I was in, and it was wonderful to us to see the lovely decorations store owners put up to make the season more festive. We even made it into Wal Mart, and thought the parking lot looked full, people were courteous and friendly and it was just different that a big city store.
So all the T's got crossed and the I's dotted so here we are, ready or not.
Monday, December 17, 2007
The Day Before The Day
Today is the day before we close on the farm. We've got the final figures and the money stuff is ready to go. We met with a nice fellow named Randy Bauer who's backing up Diane Hoffman during her family's loss for our final walk through of the farm, and I probably entertained him with our enthusiam for our prospective purchase.
We really didn't expect to see anything different, and didn't. I wish the snow would melt a bit quicker, but then it's mud, so maybe I'm better off and just don't know it yet. After our final visit of the farm before closing tomorrow, we decided to take a drive along Nebraska state highway 47 south to state 89. We turned west and really enjoyed the relaxing drive through Lebanon, Danbury, and Marion. We saw deer, raccoons, wild turkey, pheasant, and hawks. This area really has the wildlife!
Since I know how much needs to be done on the farm, I've been watching for hardware and lumber yards in the area, and Margie had noticed Lord's Hardware & Appliance as we had driven through Indianola in the past, so today we stopped to see what they had.
What a great old building with the tin ceiling so tall that 28' extension ladders stand straight up with plenty of room to spare. With such tall ceilings, the place has tall shelves and a rolling ladder to access whatever it is you need on the top shelf. I know, if I went in there looking for something very specific, I might not find it, but with such a huge selection of stuff, I think I'll find it hard not to visit repeatedly.
One thing caught my eye... I noticed in one of the back rooms several spring steel traps of various sizes, the largest I don't know what for, but I sure hope we don't every want to trap whatever that trap is designed for!
We really didn't expect to see anything different, and didn't. I wish the snow would melt a bit quicker, but then it's mud, so maybe I'm better off and just don't know it yet. After our final visit of the farm before closing tomorrow, we decided to take a drive along Nebraska state highway 47 south to state 89. We turned west and really enjoyed the relaxing drive through Lebanon, Danbury, and Marion. We saw deer, raccoons, wild turkey, pheasant, and hawks. This area really has the wildlife!
Since I know how much needs to be done on the farm, I've been watching for hardware and lumber yards in the area, and Margie had noticed Lord's Hardware & Appliance as we had driven through Indianola in the past, so today we stopped to see what they had.
What a great old building with the tin ceiling so tall that 28' extension ladders stand straight up with plenty of room to spare. With such tall ceilings, the place has tall shelves and a rolling ladder to access whatever it is you need on the top shelf. I know, if I went in there looking for something very specific, I might not find it, but with such a huge selection of stuff, I think I'll find it hard not to visit repeatedly.
One thing caught my eye... I noticed in one of the back rooms several spring steel traps of various sizes, the largest I don't know what for, but I sure hope we don't every want to trap whatever that trap is designed for!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Shovelin' Fools
What a beautiful day once the clouds parted with the winter wonderland sparkling in the sunlight! We've been watching the weather forecast, and since we're to have clear skies and warmer temps, we want to get the snow off the drive into the farm some so we might have a relatively dry place to park Gozer after closing.
Power tools...every homeowners friend, come in all shapes and sizes of course, and I'm pretty sure a snow blower is one of those tools in our future. We only came with one snow shovel, so we took turns working the dumb end, and got the job mostly done in a couple hours. It wasn't a horrible job, and would have been so much easier if the power company hadn't been through ahead of the last snow to turn on the power, so that was packed down, and there seemed to be a pretty good layer of crusty snow just beneath the new snow surface that didn't help much either. We got a good chance to see which way the snow drifts around the place for the first time, and once we know for sure that the farm is ours, we'll at least get another shovel.
Cambridge's RV park hasn't been plowed, so we decided to make a few passes around the circle at least to pack the snow to make Gozer's escape a bit easier. We survived the cold last night, but I don't think it got down to the predicted +3 either. First time I looked at the thermometer this morning it was 12, so I guess it's a heat wave!
Final walk through inspection of the farm tomorrow, and closing on Tuesday...Come on grass...GROW! (see previous "Watching Grass Grow")
Power tools...every homeowners friend, come in all shapes and sizes of course, and I'm pretty sure a snow blower is one of those tools in our future. We only came with one snow shovel, so we took turns working the dumb end, and got the job mostly done in a couple hours. It wasn't a horrible job, and would have been so much easier if the power company hadn't been through ahead of the last snow to turn on the power, so that was packed down, and there seemed to be a pretty good layer of crusty snow just beneath the new snow surface that didn't help much either. We got a good chance to see which way the snow drifts around the place for the first time, and once we know for sure that the farm is ours, we'll at least get another shovel.
Cambridge's RV park hasn't been plowed, so we decided to make a few passes around the circle at least to pack the snow to make Gozer's escape a bit easier. We survived the cold last night, but I don't think it got down to the predicted +3 either. First time I looked at the thermometer this morning it was 12, so I guess it's a heat wave!
Final walk through inspection of the farm tomorrow, and closing on Tuesday...Come on grass...GROW! (see previous "Watching Grass Grow")
Friday, December 14, 2007
Who's Place Is It Anyway?
In my early days with the telephone company, I was a phone repairman working in the foothills west of Denver, and often our repair orders gave directions instead of a road address. You probably know the type... go up Turkey Creek about 3 miles to rock outcropping on the left. Take next road to the right and go... You get the idea. Without an actual road address, you had no other choice but to explain how to find a place.
Now being from the city, I've become accustomed to having an actual address to locate places, and I'm sure I can do that just about everywhere in Nebraska too, but yesterday we had our second experience with local directions, and since the occurrence was at the local power company office, I guess it must be "official".
The first time this came up was when we were getting a repair estimate for the farms heat pump. We gave the address to the place, but was asked who's place was it? We replied with the sellers name and that didn't fly, so we mentioned the name on a plate still inside the front door of the house as John Smith's (the names have been changed to protect the innocent). "Oh sure, I know that place well!"
Yesterday's occurrence came out of the blue at us. We were filling out paperwork to get power turned on at the farm and after completing our paperwork, we were told we were in the old Smith place. That got us started, and We got to find out that one of the office gal's relatives owns the property around us, and the other lady in the office owns a place that was the father of the Smith's of "our" place.
It's pretty obvious that the locals have long memories for their neighbors. I'm just wondering if the farm will ever really be our place, or always belong to the "Smith's"?
Now being from the city, I've become accustomed to having an actual address to locate places, and I'm sure I can do that just about everywhere in Nebraska too, but yesterday we had our second experience with local directions, and since the occurrence was at the local power company office, I guess it must be "official".
The first time this came up was when we were getting a repair estimate for the farms heat pump. We gave the address to the place, but was asked who's place was it? We replied with the sellers name and that didn't fly, so we mentioned the name on a plate still inside the front door of the house as John Smith's (the names have been changed to protect the innocent). "Oh sure, I know that place well!"
Yesterday's occurrence came out of the blue at us. We were filling out paperwork to get power turned on at the farm and after completing our paperwork, we were told we were in the old Smith place. That got us started, and We got to find out that one of the office gal's relatives owns the property around us, and the other lady in the office owns a place that was the father of the Smith's of "our" place.
It's pretty obvious that the locals have long memories for their neighbors. I'm just wondering if the farm will ever really be our place, or always belong to the "Smith's"?
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Snow Advisory
Once we committed to buying the farm, we first thought we'd move to the Cambridge town RV park since the sellers real estate agent Diane Hoffman got us permission from town officials, but our plans changed with some other things we needed to get through first. Now we're getting close to closing, and it's time to squeeze in our travel plans between storms.
Again we had a dry travel day, and pulled into the Cambridge town RV park about 6 PM. We discovered the power outlet was missing a "leg" at the first campsite we picked, so we moved a bit and are settled in. We got our satellite antenna up and watched a rather disgusting performance from the two time Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos, and caught up on some email.
Along the road we saw several pheasants, a few deer, and lots of raptors. We watched a steady increase in the snow levels along the road as we headed east too, and the town's RV park has about 4 inches of snow. With another another 2 to 5 inches forecast for this afternoon and tonight, we're glad to be here!
This is our first morning to wake up in Cambridge. On our previous visits here, we couldn't stay in the local motel because of their pet policy, so we stayed in McCook. This time we're greeted to partly cloudy skies, that obscured the sunrise, but reveal a winter wonderland around us. The blanket of snow is quite the change from snow you see in Denver most of the time. Denver's snow is a light gray within a few hours of falling from pollution and dust kicked up by the traffic on sanded streets.
Casey, our Golden Retriever is looking out the window having a conniption watching several rabbits play outside the window, and so far, our move to Nebraska is everything we could hope for.
Again we had a dry travel day, and pulled into the Cambridge town RV park about 6 PM. We discovered the power outlet was missing a "leg" at the first campsite we picked, so we moved a bit and are settled in. We got our satellite antenna up and watched a rather disgusting performance from the two time Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos, and caught up on some email.
Along the road we saw several pheasants, a few deer, and lots of raptors. We watched a steady increase in the snow levels along the road as we headed east too, and the town's RV park has about 4 inches of snow. With another another 2 to 5 inches forecast for this afternoon and tonight, we're glad to be here!
This is our first morning to wake up in Cambridge. On our previous visits here, we couldn't stay in the local motel because of their pet policy, so we stayed in McCook. This time we're greeted to partly cloudy skies, that obscured the sunrise, but reveal a winter wonderland around us. The blanket of snow is quite the change from snow you see in Denver most of the time. Denver's snow is a light gray within a few hours of falling from pollution and dust kicked up by the traffic on sanded streets.
Casey, our Golden Retriever is looking out the window having a conniption watching several rabbits play outside the window, and so far, our move to Nebraska is everything we could hope for.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Gary Luck
My brother-in-law is a great guy, he just comes up on the short end of the stick more than his share it seems. He's likes to call it Gary Luck. Most of us would equate Gary Luck with bad luck, but I'm usually one of those people that don't believe in luck and that things happen for a reason. Get a speeding ticket? Duh...you were speeding, it has nothing to do with luck for example. Gary seems to have some bad things happen at the worst of all possible times though, hence the term Gary Luck may be appropriate now and then.
Those of you following along know we live in our motor home, and we've got quite a cold spell right now. Temperatures dipped to +6 night before last, and we got some plain old bad luck. Our furnace blower motor seized with little more than a short howl notice, and our plumbing ceased operating too...frozen pipes will do that.
We were lucky as this occurred just before dawn, so things didn't get a chance to freeze solid, and the day itself warmed into the upper 30's quickly enough that no damage was done to the plumbing.
For us, the furnace failure came at a great time! If this had happened while staying in the Cambridge town park, I think I'd have more difficultly finding parts, and could have ended up with quite a mess on our hands if we couldn't get them immediately.
So either it's just a matter of coincidence or plain old luck that the furnace died when it did. At least it wasn't Gary Luck and happened at something other than the worst of all possible times.
Those of you following along know we live in our motor home, and we've got quite a cold spell right now. Temperatures dipped to +6 night before last, and we got some plain old bad luck. Our furnace blower motor seized with little more than a short howl notice, and our plumbing ceased operating too...frozen pipes will do that.
We were lucky as this occurred just before dawn, so things didn't get a chance to freeze solid, and the day itself warmed into the upper 30's quickly enough that no damage was done to the plumbing.
For us, the furnace failure came at a great time! If this had happened while staying in the Cambridge town park, I think I'd have more difficultly finding parts, and could have ended up with quite a mess on our hands if we couldn't get them immediately.
So either it's just a matter of coincidence or plain old luck that the furnace died when it did. At least it wasn't Gary Luck and happened at something other than the worst of all possible times.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Fubar or Snafu?
Computers sure have changed society.
It wasn't long ago that most folks had a kind of loathing for the little boxes with the TV screen and the typewriter type keyboard, partly because people in general don't like change. They once represented a type of change that everybody thought required a degree in rocket science to figure out how to make it work, and the terminology "garbage in - garbage" out became universally understood to explain a host of computer generated financial statement errors. Add to that the number of times you called a bank, mail order house or the like, and were told that the computers are down, and the early days of the information age don't sound all that rosy.
Nowadays technology has improved dramatically as well as the ability of computer operators to get accurate information input into these modern marvels. The Internet has opened up the world to everyone from the comfort of their living room easy chair, and emails fly through cyberspace with the greatest of ease with nearly flawless results.
Yep... Computers and technology sure have come a long way, but recently I had a harmless FUBAR occur at the McCook Gazette's web site. First off, FUBAR stands for Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition. I believe this term got it's birth during WWII as a descriptive way to describe daily Army life.
To add a touch of irony to this story, in my past I was a mini computer repairman for AT&T and worked on some some pretty cutting edge equipment. DEC Computer Corp had a large computer who's design engineer borrowed on the FUBAR term by having a useless catchall failure report called the Failed Uni-Bus Address Register that stored totally useless information. When all else failed, the FUBAR was there to catch you...there always has to be someplace for a computer to send useless error information you see.
I'd just responded to an article comment, and noticed that the date and time of the comment I posted showed up as December 32, 1473 at 27:31 AM, and there was a little ! with a circle around it icon that I clicked on that gave me the following message...
"An Obvious Error Has Occurred"
Now I hadn't thought about the FUBAR register in years, and I'm pretty sure the error message I got didn't come from a FUBAR registers output. So does that really mean it's really a SNAFU? Situation Normal, All Fouled Up? I doubt it.
It wasn't long ago that most folks had a kind of loathing for the little boxes with the TV screen and the typewriter type keyboard, partly because people in general don't like change. They once represented a type of change that everybody thought required a degree in rocket science to figure out how to make it work, and the terminology "garbage in - garbage" out became universally understood to explain a host of computer generated financial statement errors. Add to that the number of times you called a bank, mail order house or the like, and were told that the computers are down, and the early days of the information age don't sound all that rosy.
Nowadays technology has improved dramatically as well as the ability of computer operators to get accurate information input into these modern marvels. The Internet has opened up the world to everyone from the comfort of their living room easy chair, and emails fly through cyberspace with the greatest of ease with nearly flawless results.
Yep... Computers and technology sure have come a long way, but recently I had a harmless FUBAR occur at the McCook Gazette's web site. First off, FUBAR stands for Fouled Up Beyond All Recognition. I believe this term got it's birth during WWII as a descriptive way to describe daily Army life.
To add a touch of irony to this story, in my past I was a mini computer repairman for AT&T and worked on some some pretty cutting edge equipment. DEC Computer Corp had a large computer who's design engineer borrowed on the FUBAR term by having a useless catchall failure report called the Failed Uni-Bus Address Register that stored totally useless information. When all else failed, the FUBAR was there to catch you...there always has to be someplace for a computer to send useless error information you see.
I'd just responded to an article comment, and noticed that the date and time of the comment I posted showed up as December 32, 1473 at 27:31 AM, and there was a little ! with a circle around it icon that I clicked on that gave me the following message...
"An Obvious Error Has Occurred"
Now I hadn't thought about the FUBAR register in years, and I'm pretty sure the error message I got didn't come from a FUBAR registers output. So does that really mean it's really a SNAFU? Situation Normal, All Fouled Up? I doubt it.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Infamy
It was a bad day in American history. It changed America in an instant, and thrust us into a worldwide conflict pitting what many people consider a war of good against evil.
"December 7, 1941. A day that will live in infamy" were the words of president Franklin D. Roosevelt on that fateful day when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. I guess I'd never thought about the definition of the word before, assuming it went along with the term infamous, so I decided to look it up.
Infamy - Evil fame or reputation. The condition of being infamous. An evil or criminal act that is publicly known.
I think about our veterans and freedoms a lot at this time of year but unfortunately, there is plenty of other infamy going around too. December 7 reminds me of the sacrifice so many have made for me and you, and I want to say thanks again, but this year, keep a special thought for our neighbors in Omaha too.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Watching Grass Grow
Waiting for our closing date to arrive seems like watching grass grow. To make matters worse, the weekend weather forecast for Denver is for temperatures to dip to single digits and snow this weekend. We notice that Cambridge is scheduled for a low of 4 this weekend.
If you've never spent time in an RV when the temperature dips well below freezing, you don't know about the fun of winter RV living. Just trying to keep warm and the RVs water lines and tanks from freezing is a constant challenge. We're fortunate that our motor home has a "heated basement". What that means is that some of the warm furnace air is directed around the tanks to help keep them from freezing and this works just great until the temp gets to 20, then you really have to take extra measures to keep thawed.
We keep our fresh water tank quite full and that helps, and we'll put a light bulb near tanks, as well as turn up the heat a couple times during the night to really warm up the "basement" to help the light bulb do it's job. We have a vent less propane heater we use too as RVs are not exactly designed for such cold. The furnace would run constantly if we didn't have some form of adjunct heater.
Since the farm house isn't quite livable yet, we'll continue to live in the RV once we get there for a short time, so we'll be looking for straw bales to help keep the cold from underneath our rig. At least on the farm, we'll have good power instead of the 15 amp circuit we're hooked to now. A 50 amp plug would work with electric space heaters, but we don't have access to one here.
We have a long list of things we'll need after we close on the farm, and we can't do anything about it. Maybe I should say we're reluctant to start picking up things in case our farm purchase falls through at the last minute. We need a house size vacuum cleaner, but if the farm deal fell through, where in the world would we store something like that? Same for power tools I'll need, ladders, and a host of other stuff.
We've thought about heading south and returning as necessary for my dental work, but I've got appointments frequently depending on how fast the dental lab gets their work done, and with the price of diesel, using Gozer as a commuter vehicle really isn't practical.
So we're pretty much stuck watching the grass grow for a few more days, and watching this time of year, it's particularly slow growing.
If you've never spent time in an RV when the temperature dips well below freezing, you don't know about the fun of winter RV living. Just trying to keep warm and the RVs water lines and tanks from freezing is a constant challenge. We're fortunate that our motor home has a "heated basement". What that means is that some of the warm furnace air is directed around the tanks to help keep them from freezing and this works just great until the temp gets to 20, then you really have to take extra measures to keep thawed.
We keep our fresh water tank quite full and that helps, and we'll put a light bulb near tanks, as well as turn up the heat a couple times during the night to really warm up the "basement" to help the light bulb do it's job. We have a vent less propane heater we use too as RVs are not exactly designed for such cold. The furnace would run constantly if we didn't have some form of adjunct heater.
Since the farm house isn't quite livable yet, we'll continue to live in the RV once we get there for a short time, so we'll be looking for straw bales to help keep the cold from underneath our rig. At least on the farm, we'll have good power instead of the 15 amp circuit we're hooked to now. A 50 amp plug would work with electric space heaters, but we don't have access to one here.
We have a long list of things we'll need after we close on the farm, and we can't do anything about it. Maybe I should say we're reluctant to start picking up things in case our farm purchase falls through at the last minute. We need a house size vacuum cleaner, but if the farm deal fell through, where in the world would we store something like that? Same for power tools I'll need, ladders, and a host of other stuff.
We've thought about heading south and returning as necessary for my dental work, but I've got appointments frequently depending on how fast the dental lab gets their work done, and with the price of diesel, using Gozer as a commuter vehicle really isn't practical.
So we're pretty much stuck watching the grass grow for a few more days, and watching this time of year, it's particularly slow growing.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Omaha's Horror
Columbine High School - Margie and I lived just 2 miles from there, and were at home during the unfolding of the drama that is at least somewhat familiar to just about everyone. The news was filled with the horror for days afterward, and even today, Colorado license plates are available commemorating Columbine, there are memorial services every year, and just the thought of the tragic events bring tears to my eyes still.
Today Omaha experienced it's own horror. I can't express my feelings beyond mentioning something that was brought up about Columbine that has stuck with me, and helps me cope with the feelings brought up by this senseless act..."Rational people can never understand irrational acts".
Omaha will be changed by the occurrences of December 5, 2007. I bet I can speak for most of us when I say our prayers are with you.
Today Omaha experienced it's own horror. I can't express my feelings beyond mentioning something that was brought up about Columbine that has stuck with me, and helps me cope with the feelings brought up by this senseless act..."Rational people can never understand irrational acts".
Omaha will be changed by the occurrences of December 5, 2007. I bet I can speak for most of us when I say our prayers are with you.
Leaving Nebraska
My family was part of the great outward migration from the country to urban living. My grandparents never left, (not exactly true since my last living grandparent moved into a nursing home in Washington state a few months before passing on), but Mom left town (Ewing -pop 500), and Dad left the farm near Orchard, and they attended Grand Island Business College. I guess the college has been gone for years.
Dad was a WWII vet, and Mom worked in the War Department until the war was over, and they moved into an apartment in Omaha. Mom worked for Mutual of Omaha, and Dad hired on with the US Postal Service.
Now as a kid, Dad's job was pretty cool! How many kids dad's carried a badge and gun? Dad was a railway mail clerk and sorted mail on the trains between Omaha and Cheyenne, Wyoming. The mail clerks were required to carry a weapon as it wasn't too many years earlier when outlaws roamed the west and trains got robbed. The early day Saturday afternoon TV shows seemed to always show a train robbery in progress, so my friends were pretty impressed!
Progress made us leave I suppose... The Postal Service decided that train mail sorting wasn't the way to go anymore, so Dad bid on a job in Denver and that's how we left.
For years to come, I'd tell people that Nebraska was a great place...to be from. My Omaha high school's mascot was a bunny, the landscape was flat, the summers hot, the winters cold, and there was nothing to do. One thing though...I stayed true to my Cornhuskers.
I'm still amazed at how I'm coming full circle. Don't get me wrong about Colorado, I love Colorado's scenery and climate as much as anywhere I've been. But there is a lot more to life than climate and scenery, and the pace of life and unlimited growth in Colorado is just not what we want anymore. Now I'm saying Colorado is great place...to visit.
We're really excited to be coming back to Nebraska. 12 days and a wake-up to closing!
Dad was a WWII vet, and Mom worked in the War Department until the war was over, and they moved into an apartment in Omaha. Mom worked for Mutual of Omaha, and Dad hired on with the US Postal Service.
Now as a kid, Dad's job was pretty cool! How many kids dad's carried a badge and gun? Dad was a railway mail clerk and sorted mail on the trains between Omaha and Cheyenne, Wyoming. The mail clerks were required to carry a weapon as it wasn't too many years earlier when outlaws roamed the west and trains got robbed. The early day Saturday afternoon TV shows seemed to always show a train robbery in progress, so my friends were pretty impressed!
Progress made us leave I suppose... The Postal Service decided that train mail sorting wasn't the way to go anymore, so Dad bid on a job in Denver and that's how we left.
For years to come, I'd tell people that Nebraska was a great place...to be from. My Omaha high school's mascot was a bunny, the landscape was flat, the summers hot, the winters cold, and there was nothing to do. One thing though...I stayed true to my Cornhuskers.
I'm still amazed at how I'm coming full circle. Don't get me wrong about Colorado, I love Colorado's scenery and climate as much as anywhere I've been. But there is a lot more to life than climate and scenery, and the pace of life and unlimited growth in Colorado is just not what we want anymore. Now I'm saying Colorado is great place...to visit.
We're really excited to be coming back to Nebraska. 12 days and a wake-up to closing!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Dog Hunter
I got the above picture from my uncle and just can't help but share it. Nice to see the appropriate use of blaze orange. Did I mention, we have a Golden Retreiver?
Cambridge Christmas
I've been scouring online sources for news and information and found an interesting article about 25 fun things to do in Cambridge. You can read the article at http://www.mccookgazette.com/story/1294499.html.
Since we're still stuck in Denver, this article about the holiday activities has us wanting to hook up the Jeep to the motor home and head for Cambridge today. We are so ready to be out of the city, and the article sounds so inviting. Unfortunately, we'll stay to get other issues resolved first.
I gotta comment on one item in the article that really caught my eye. First off, you have to understand that I don't have the shopping gene at all, but I wish I was there on Thursday, December 6. You see...that's the day when the stores stay open until 9PM.
If you've been following along with this blog, then you know how I felt about "Black Friday" shopping, but the thought of shopping in a small town when the stores only stay open 'till 9 occasionally sounds like more of a good time than than anything else.
So we may have to wait a whole year for the Cambridge stores to stay open late, but that's not necessarily a bad thing to me.
Since we're still stuck in Denver, this article about the holiday activities has us wanting to hook up the Jeep to the motor home and head for Cambridge today. We are so ready to be out of the city, and the article sounds so inviting. Unfortunately, we'll stay to get other issues resolved first.
I gotta comment on one item in the article that really caught my eye. First off, you have to understand that I don't have the shopping gene at all, but I wish I was there on Thursday, December 6. You see...that's the day when the stores stay open until 9PM.
If you've been following along with this blog, then you know how I felt about "Black Friday" shopping, but the thought of shopping in a small town when the stores only stay open 'till 9 occasionally sounds like more of a good time than than anything else.
So we may have to wait a whole year for the Cambridge stores to stay open late, but that's not necessarily a bad thing to me.
Monday, December 3, 2007
Doc Kilroy's First Impresson
I got to visit Dr. Thomas Kilroy DDS, PC, ABC, XYZ, and some other stuff, for more dental work the other day. Now you have to understand that Doc Kilroy is the only dentist I've found willing to work on me. I think I mentioned before that I'm a cancer survivor, but didn't mention complications of radiation therapy have caused me recurring dental nightmares. Doc is the only guy that takes on tough cases like me that I know of, and I'm glad to know him.
My mother met Doc years ago after her dentist couldn't get a bridge to stay in properly and referred her. Doc fixed her up and that's over 30 years ago. I met Doc as a referral patient from the Oncology Department at Porter hospital in Denver 16+ years ago. He's not only an expert technician, he's a fun guy to talk to about a wide range of topics too.
Doc is into motor sports, and loves his motorcycle rides through the rough country of the western US. We always share tales of the back country, and though we always talk about it, we have yet to meet up, he on his motorcycle, and me in Blackie. We've talked about football, business ventures, travel, and a host of other topics over the years.
I'd guess Doc is pretty close to 60 now, but shows no signs of slowing down much. His braided salt and pepper hair, pony tale, and goatee might make some patients a bit nervous (he almost looks like a biker), and I imagine some people don't view his appearance as too professional either. But Doc really knows his stuff, has a quite and comforting manner, and his new patients soon find out just how good he is.
Doc is the perfect example of the old saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover". If you do judge Doc this way, you'll miss out on a caring doctor that is fun to boot. I'll continue to travel to Denver to see Doc Kilroy for my dental work, 1... because he is the only guy I trust working with my dental issues, and B... he's more than just a doctor. Thanks Doc...I hope you don't retire before people say I've bought the farm in another context.
My mother met Doc years ago after her dentist couldn't get a bridge to stay in properly and referred her. Doc fixed her up and that's over 30 years ago. I met Doc as a referral patient from the Oncology Department at Porter hospital in Denver 16+ years ago. He's not only an expert technician, he's a fun guy to talk to about a wide range of topics too.
Doc is into motor sports, and loves his motorcycle rides through the rough country of the western US. We always share tales of the back country, and though we always talk about it, we have yet to meet up, he on his motorcycle, and me in Blackie. We've talked about football, business ventures, travel, and a host of other topics over the years.
I'd guess Doc is pretty close to 60 now, but shows no signs of slowing down much. His braided salt and pepper hair, pony tale, and goatee might make some patients a bit nervous (he almost looks like a biker), and I imagine some people don't view his appearance as too professional either. But Doc really knows his stuff, has a quite and comforting manner, and his new patients soon find out just how good he is.
Doc is the perfect example of the old saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover". If you do judge Doc this way, you'll miss out on a caring doctor that is fun to boot. I'll continue to travel to Denver to see Doc Kilroy for my dental work, 1... because he is the only guy I trust working with my dental issues, and B... he's more than just a doctor. Thanks Doc...I hope you don't retire before people say I've bought the farm in another context.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Big Farms
I've been reading some recently about corporate farm operations, but I hadn't appreciated it much until our last drive from Cambridge to Denver. We drove west on US 36 across northern Kansas and eastern Colorado this trip, and a few miles east of Byers Colorado is a farm that probably qualifies as a corporate farm.
The first thing that caught my eye was the five 1/4 million dollar each 4x4 tractors lined up, and that was just the start of what almost looked more like a dealership than a farm. There were 4 modest houses that I assume are for workers and their families, and above it all atop the nearest hill was an impressive new house surrounded by a young windbreak only a few years old.
What a change from the farm I visited when I was a kid! My aunt and uncle had a farm in Holt county that we visited a couple times a year. It was a smallish operation with chickens and a few cows. They grew hay, and I loved watching them mow, rake and stack it. There were farm ponds, and that's where I caught my first fish, and I rode in my first and only Jeep FC (forward control pickup) that probably got me hooked on 4x4's in the first place.
I think that was near the tail end of farming as a subsistence lifestyle, but what great memories of the cream separator, getting eggs from the coop, the hand water pump, and the FC Jeep I have. After driving by the big farm, I couldn't help but be a bit nostalgic for the small farm I remember from my boyhood.
The first thing that caught my eye was the five 1/4 million dollar each 4x4 tractors lined up, and that was just the start of what almost looked more like a dealership than a farm. There were 4 modest houses that I assume are for workers and their families, and above it all atop the nearest hill was an impressive new house surrounded by a young windbreak only a few years old.
What a change from the farm I visited when I was a kid! My aunt and uncle had a farm in Holt county that we visited a couple times a year. It was a smallish operation with chickens and a few cows. They grew hay, and I loved watching them mow, rake and stack it. There were farm ponds, and that's where I caught my first fish, and I rode in my first and only Jeep FC (forward control pickup) that probably got me hooked on 4x4's in the first place.
I think that was near the tail end of farming as a subsistence lifestyle, but what great memories of the cream separator, getting eggs from the coop, the hand water pump, and the FC Jeep I have. After driving by the big farm, I couldn't help but be a bit nostalgic for the small farm I remember from my boyhood.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Farm Jeeps
I've been doing a lot of thinking about the farm, and what's the best way to proceed with "projects" once we are the new owners. I have a seemingly endless list of things that need to be done, not to mention the stuff that dreams are made of for the farm, and wouldn't you know it, a light bulb came on.
It always amazes me that the simplest of solutions can solve some big problems. Now I really can't take credit for the idea, though I will take credit for it's implementation.
I've seen pictures, and read that Jeeps were used in place of tractors after WWII as they were readily available and tractors were not. We've got a pretty well built Jeep, so why not use it to drag a chain link fence, log, steel pipe, or whatever over the weeds since they will break off easily? I'm gonna give it try because I think this idea will work!
I thought I'd do a bit of research about Jeeps and the farm, and WHOA, there is some great historical information on line! The first web site I found I'll be back to. Check out http://www.farmjeep.com for lots of pictures, parts access, old ads, and numerous project vehicle articles. Heck, if I can fabricate the implements, I think Blackie might do a heck of a lot of work on the farm.
Anybody got a better idea?
Holiday Spirits
Yesterday we got back to Denver after our quick trip to Cambridge for house inspections, and decided to go to a local fast food place for lunch before we went to the grocery store for some needed items.
While standing in line to place our food order, I noticed a pleasant though somewhat disheveled older lady standing by the door. We acknowledged each other with a nod and smile which is a lot more notice than you normally get in the city.
We sat down, and the older lady soon sat down near us looking out the window whispering to herself. I don't know how the conversation even got started, but she asked us where we were from, and a couple other questions as we ate our lunch, then asked if I had 50 cents I could spare.
I didn't hesitate, though I've become pretty crusty towards panhandlers over the years, to dig into my wallet and give her a buck. I had it, could spare it, she obviously to me needed it, helping others is something I like to do, and it's Christmas. She thanked me and sat back down looking out the window for a few more minutes, then headed to the counter with her new treasure and ordered a baked potato from the "dollar menu".
We finished up our lunch and as we pulled out of the parking lot on our way to the grocery, we saw the lady kinda wandering around as if lost. I'm afraid she is one of those unfortunate folks that needs outside help. Many people do in our country of prosperity unfortunately.
The other part of this story involves the self checkout at the grocery store. We waited for the next available self checkout station and when we walked up, the customer in front of us had forgotten her $10 bill change in the machine and was halfway out the door. I grabbed the ten spot and quickly caught up with her before she got to her car. The look on her face was worth 10 times more to me than the $10 bill could have ever provided monetarily. The "thank you" was delivered with disbelief.
So I hope that I passed a bit of Christmas spirit to a couple people that needed a lift. This holiday season, take a moment and remember that there are a lot of folks that don't have what you do. I know I did the right thing for a couple people, and I bet you can too this season.
While standing in line to place our food order, I noticed a pleasant though somewhat disheveled older lady standing by the door. We acknowledged each other with a nod and smile which is a lot more notice than you normally get in the city.
We sat down, and the older lady soon sat down near us looking out the window whispering to herself. I don't know how the conversation even got started, but she asked us where we were from, and a couple other questions as we ate our lunch, then asked if I had 50 cents I could spare.
I didn't hesitate, though I've become pretty crusty towards panhandlers over the years, to dig into my wallet and give her a buck. I had it, could spare it, she obviously to me needed it, helping others is something I like to do, and it's Christmas. She thanked me and sat back down looking out the window for a few more minutes, then headed to the counter with her new treasure and ordered a baked potato from the "dollar menu".
We finished up our lunch and as we pulled out of the parking lot on our way to the grocery, we saw the lady kinda wandering around as if lost. I'm afraid she is one of those unfortunate folks that needs outside help. Many people do in our country of prosperity unfortunately.
The other part of this story involves the self checkout at the grocery store. We waited for the next available self checkout station and when we walked up, the customer in front of us had forgotten her $10 bill change in the machine and was halfway out the door. I grabbed the ten spot and quickly caught up with her before she got to her car. The look on her face was worth 10 times more to me than the $10 bill could have ever provided monetarily. The "thank you" was delivered with disbelief.
So I hope that I passed a bit of Christmas spirit to a couple people that needed a lift. This holiday season, take a moment and remember that there are a lot of folks that don't have what you do. I know I did the right thing for a couple people, and I bet you can too this season.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The Deere That Got Away
Today was exciting for us because it was inspection day! Heating systems, electrical, plumbing, and structural inspections were all completed, and we were able to follow the inspectors as they checked out the farm for stuff that we might overlook.
Now these guys have some specialized tools that make what they do about impossible unless you have the tools, and even though I thought I'd seen most ladders, I saw a really cool telescoping model today that sure caught my eye.
We got into town a bit early so we decided to tramp around the farm again as we had a couple hours to kill before meeting our inspectors. Upon pulling into the farm's drive, something looked "different". Couldn't quite put my finger on it to start with, but after walking around a bit, I could tell that some big equipment had pulled into the spot where I had left "my" Deere.
Danged if the Deere wasn't gone...Go to the very first post of this blog to read about Brian's first Deere. I'd had thoughts about that old Deere with the tree growing through the seat. It was ploppled up on blocks, one wheel off, one tire gone, and the wheel that was off was totally rusted through.
Yep, I had dreams of restoring the old Deere as I really enjoy mechanics, but I know that until the day that we take possession of the farm, anything out there that isn't fixed isn't mine. Now I admit that I wondered how I would move the Deere myself in the condition it was in, but it appears someone with equipment moving experience cut the tree down through the seat, and dragged the old Deere to a new resting place.
Only thing...I wish they would have taken the old rusty tractor wheel and tire too. I have a feeling they did me a big favor in the long run.
Now these guys have some specialized tools that make what they do about impossible unless you have the tools, and even though I thought I'd seen most ladders, I saw a really cool telescoping model today that sure caught my eye.
We got into town a bit early so we decided to tramp around the farm again as we had a couple hours to kill before meeting our inspectors. Upon pulling into the farm's drive, something looked "different". Couldn't quite put my finger on it to start with, but after walking around a bit, I could tell that some big equipment had pulled into the spot where I had left "my" Deere.
Danged if the Deere wasn't gone...Go to the very first post of this blog to read about Brian's first Deere. I'd had thoughts about that old Deere with the tree growing through the seat. It was ploppled up on blocks, one wheel off, one tire gone, and the wheel that was off was totally rusted through.
Yep, I had dreams of restoring the old Deere as I really enjoy mechanics, but I know that until the day that we take possession of the farm, anything out there that isn't fixed isn't mine. Now I admit that I wondered how I would move the Deere myself in the condition it was in, but it appears someone with equipment moving experience cut the tree down through the seat, and dragged the old Deere to a new resting place.
Only thing...I wish they would have taken the old rusty tractor wheel and tire too. I have a feeling they did me a big favor in the long run.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Saving Blackie?
We're just about packed up to hit the road for home inspections tomorrow. As soon as we heard we needed to be in Cambridge if we wanted to be present during the inspections, we made a reservation for motel and a rental car for this trip.
Now since you don't know yet, we've been pretty avid 4x4 explorers over the years, and have a modified Jeep that we usually tow behind the motor home. Blackie (our Jeeps name) is set up for just about any terrain, and while I wouldn't hesitate driving from Denver to Cambridge in it, the soft canvas top is noisy, and the ride is not exactly what you would call smooth. Not the most fun way to spend 5 or 6 hours...each way.
Nope...for longer trips like these 600 mile round trip jaunts from Denver, a rental car is our best option. I know that the rental car is saving a ton of wear and tear on Blackie. Those big mud tires would just as soon see dirt roads, and though the Jeep gets OK gas mileage, I'm sure I'll get just about double the MPG from our rental.
So you see, it only makes sense for us to rent a car to save the wear and tear on the Jeep. Or is it us and not wanting to bounce down the road, dog in the back of the Jeep sharing space with a suitcase, listening to the roar of the wind through the canvas top, and if it's really cold, the heater will just barely keep you warm?
I'm thinking the rental car is saving us.
Now since you don't know yet, we've been pretty avid 4x4 explorers over the years, and have a modified Jeep that we usually tow behind the motor home. Blackie (our Jeeps name) is set up for just about any terrain, and while I wouldn't hesitate driving from Denver to Cambridge in it, the soft canvas top is noisy, and the ride is not exactly what you would call smooth. Not the most fun way to spend 5 or 6 hours...each way.
Nope...for longer trips like these 600 mile round trip jaunts from Denver, a rental car is our best option. I know that the rental car is saving a ton of wear and tear on Blackie. Those big mud tires would just as soon see dirt roads, and though the Jeep gets OK gas mileage, I'm sure I'll get just about double the MPG from our rental.
So you see, it only makes sense for us to rent a car to save the wear and tear on the Jeep. Or is it us and not wanting to bounce down the road, dog in the back of the Jeep sharing space with a suitcase, listening to the roar of the wind through the canvas top, and if it's really cold, the heater will just barely keep you warm?
I'm thinking the rental car is saving us.
Roller Coasters
When I was younger, my favorite ride at the amusement park was the roller coaster. The high speeds, the ups, the downs, the sideways, the tunnel...what fun!
We got on a roller coaster ride again recently, but didn't know it. We were pretty concerned about our impending purchase of the farm due to some information we learned about in a rather unusual manner. This information seemed disturbing to all concerned, but given time to investigate, the "problem" can't be verified, and in fact is refuted by the primary principals, so YIPPIE KAI AY!...Deal Still On!
We know that things can and do come up with real estate transactions and until you've got the signed paperwork under your arm and the keys in your hand, there is no guarantee the deal will go through. The good news to us is that everyone involved feels confident that all is well, so we're moving full speed ahead. Come on closing day!
After thinking the farm deal might go south and us with it for the winter, we're back into hopeful anticipation mode. I had already thought about where I would store my new home improvement manual, so I'm thrilled that I possibly have an imminent reason to keep looking at it. We've rescheduled home inspections, and will be in Furnas county within 24 hours to learn as much as we can from the inspectors and heating contractor.
We've decided that we'll spend our first Christmas in front of the wood burning stove assuming we're Nebraska property owners then. We have many questions about how our home's appearance will end up both in and outside, but much of the fun of this move is the anticipation of what we think will be the best decision of our lives.
We just hope the roller coaster portion of this ride is about over.
We got on a roller coaster ride again recently, but didn't know it. We were pretty concerned about our impending purchase of the farm due to some information we learned about in a rather unusual manner. This information seemed disturbing to all concerned, but given time to investigate, the "problem" can't be verified, and in fact is refuted by the primary principals, so YIPPIE KAI AY!...Deal Still On!
We know that things can and do come up with real estate transactions and until you've got the signed paperwork under your arm and the keys in your hand, there is no guarantee the deal will go through. The good news to us is that everyone involved feels confident that all is well, so we're moving full speed ahead. Come on closing day!
After thinking the farm deal might go south and us with it for the winter, we're back into hopeful anticipation mode. I had already thought about where I would store my new home improvement manual, so I'm thrilled that I possibly have an imminent reason to keep looking at it. We've rescheduled home inspections, and will be in Furnas county within 24 hours to learn as much as we can from the inspectors and heating contractor.
We've decided that we'll spend our first Christmas in front of the wood burning stove assuming we're Nebraska property owners then. We have many questions about how our home's appearance will end up both in and outside, but much of the fun of this move is the anticipation of what we think will be the best decision of our lives.
We just hope the roller coaster portion of this ride is about over.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Bad Vibes!
Wow...my week always goes better when the Denver Bronco's win. Did I mention that they lost yesterday?
It's amazing how you find stuff out now and then. We've been in contact with a heating contractor in Cambridge about a problem with the farms heat pump that the seller disclosed. Since the owner already stated there was a problem, it was our responsibility for repairs assuming we end up taking possession of the property, so we were in the process of arranging to have the heating guys show up when the power is on at the farm to give us a firm estimate of the repair/replacement costs.
Today when we called to make final arrangements to meet him, we were greeted with news of some requested work on the farm that nobody locally seemed to know about. From the sounds of it, there may some legal issues blocking our purchase of the farm. I thank the fine folks at River Valley Services for cluing us in because nobody else had the information locally.
Now trying to find out official information has been totally impossible so far. We've contacted the sellers real estate agent, and she is contacting the seller, but it is pretty obvious to those of us involved that something is amiss, at least for the moment.
Right now, we could bail out on the contract and be done with it, or we can continue to hope that all goes well. There is a glimmer of hope, and we are fortunate that we are not selling a house to buy this one. We want the place but don't want any more headaches either.
What would you do?
As for us, we'll hang on and let it play out. We have canceled all further inspections until the legal issues over the property are resolved if they can be. We're hopeful that we will be continuing our blog, but I'm afraid there is an even money chance that we'll be searching for rural property somewhere else again in the near future.
It's amazing how you find stuff out now and then. We've been in contact with a heating contractor in Cambridge about a problem with the farms heat pump that the seller disclosed. Since the owner already stated there was a problem, it was our responsibility for repairs assuming we end up taking possession of the property, so we were in the process of arranging to have the heating guys show up when the power is on at the farm to give us a firm estimate of the repair/replacement costs.
Today when we called to make final arrangements to meet him, we were greeted with news of some requested work on the farm that nobody locally seemed to know about. From the sounds of it, there may some legal issues blocking our purchase of the farm. I thank the fine folks at River Valley Services for cluing us in because nobody else had the information locally.
Now trying to find out official information has been totally impossible so far. We've contacted the sellers real estate agent, and she is contacting the seller, but it is pretty obvious to those of us involved that something is amiss, at least for the moment.
Right now, we could bail out on the contract and be done with it, or we can continue to hope that all goes well. There is a glimmer of hope, and we are fortunate that we are not selling a house to buy this one. We want the place but don't want any more headaches either.
What would you do?
As for us, we'll hang on and let it play out. We have canceled all further inspections until the legal issues over the property are resolved if they can be. We're hopeful that we will be continuing our blog, but I'm afraid there is an even money chance that we'll be searching for rural property somewhere else again in the near future.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Football Fantasies
This has been a lousy weekend for my favorite football teams. Now even though I have called Colorado home for many years, my college football alliegence has remained with my Cornhuskers. My pro football team, unfortunately the way they are playing this year, is the Denver Broncos.
The Cornhuskers got beat by Colorado, and the Broncos got beat in overtime by the Chicago Bears. Now you should understand that I love football, and go through withdrawl at the end of the season, but this year has been, and continues to be, difficult for the football fan in me.
I find it interesting that people that are usually pessimistic can become complete optimists when it comes to their football teams. People try and make believe it's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game, but the reality is that it's only an entertaining game to a few fans. For most folks that watch football regularly, it's more than a game. It's a way to connect with others that share your joy and pain with the wins and losses. We stick together behind our teams, and revel in our comon bond using team spirit as an excuse. Some fans claim they "bleed" red and white, or orange and blue, or whatever the team colors are, but for the most part fans are good sports. Their coffee break discussions often drift to the last games outcome, and dinner table conversations often cover the pitfalls of the prevent defense or the teams future prospects without any real distaste for their opponents.
So I'll continue to have my football fantasies of the Cornhuskers winning the football National Championship...next year, the Denver Bronco's finding a way to sneak into the playoffs...this year, and the hope that the CU Buffalo's lose all the time.
The Cornhuskers got beat by Colorado, and the Broncos got beat in overtime by the Chicago Bears. Now you should understand that I love football, and go through withdrawl at the end of the season, but this year has been, and continues to be, difficult for the football fan in me.
I find it interesting that people that are usually pessimistic can become complete optimists when it comes to their football teams. People try and make believe it's not whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game, but the reality is that it's only an entertaining game to a few fans. For most folks that watch football regularly, it's more than a game. It's a way to connect with others that share your joy and pain with the wins and losses. We stick together behind our teams, and revel in our comon bond using team spirit as an excuse. Some fans claim they "bleed" red and white, or orange and blue, or whatever the team colors are, but for the most part fans are good sports. Their coffee break discussions often drift to the last games outcome, and dinner table conversations often cover the pitfalls of the prevent defense or the teams future prospects without any real distaste for their opponents.
So I'll continue to have my football fantasies of the Cornhuskers winning the football National Championship...next year, the Denver Bronco's finding a way to sneak into the playoffs...this year, and the hope that the CU Buffalo's lose all the time.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Learning Curves
We've got rental car reservations, and a room lined up at the Chief Motel in McCook so we can be present for the major home inspections. So far, we've had the septic pumped and inspected at our expense, and had an exterminator out looking for termites and whatever other pests might be lurking around the farm that we don't want.
Electricity will be turned on for the home inspection for several systems to be checked. Water well, pump, and plumbing won't work without power, and checking house wiring would be pretty tough without it too.
Now the heat pump that we understand has a problem needs power to operate too, and it would be impossible to get a repair estimate without it. I spoke to a local heating contractor briefly over the phone, and we'll meet him when the power is on so he can come up with a current estimate of repairs on the system.
My learning curve on heat pumps has been pretty steep as I want to be able to understand what I'm hearing, and not just be told what to do. This should be pretty interesting as I've found tons of information about these efficient heating and cooling systems, and feel like I could carry on an semi-intellegent conversation with someone about them.
Learning the basics about new or different technologies is a lot of fun for me. I enjoy finding out how things work, though the specifics sometimes are more than I want. This is just the first of many learning curves I'll be climbing. I've done plenty of home improvement projects over the years, but the farm will tax my abilities to the max. Sure hope I'm up for the challenge!
Electricity will be turned on for the home inspection for several systems to be checked. Water well, pump, and plumbing won't work without power, and checking house wiring would be pretty tough without it too.
Now the heat pump that we understand has a problem needs power to operate too, and it would be impossible to get a repair estimate without it. I spoke to a local heating contractor briefly over the phone, and we'll meet him when the power is on so he can come up with a current estimate of repairs on the system.
My learning curve on heat pumps has been pretty steep as I want to be able to understand what I'm hearing, and not just be told what to do. This should be pretty interesting as I've found tons of information about these efficient heating and cooling systems, and feel like I could carry on an semi-intellegent conversation with someone about them.
Learning the basics about new or different technologies is a lot of fun for me. I enjoy finding out how things work, though the specifics sometimes are more than I want. This is just the first of many learning curves I'll be climbing. I've done plenty of home improvement projects over the years, but the farm will tax my abilities to the max. Sure hope I'm up for the challenge!
Ag and Us
We haven't given a whole lot of thought about what our farming neighbors will do that may effect us on the farm. Those crops that are growing around us didn't just pop up by themselves, so obviously noise and dust from planting, weed control, and harvesting operations are expected.
Now lets see...if you harvest something, unless you consume it you have to transport it to your market, so I'd expect some heavy truck and farm equipment traffic. We're currently on a school bus and postal route for farms in more distant areas, so those farmers and their associated traffic will pass by. Ag producers provide habitat for deer, upland birds, and the like, so the annual pilgimage of hunters into the area may well be exciting too.
We have not seen the results of a test of the water on the farm yet, but I expect that some interesting assortment of Ag and industrial chemicals have leached into the ground water over the past 150 years or so, and we'll be filtering our water much the same as a town water well supply does. No blame... you can't change the past, and from what we've been reading, our Ag neighbors sound just as interested in clean water and a safe environment as we are.
As a city dweller, our neighbors real effect on our lives was superficial but seemed important because we delt with it daily. Were the neighbor kids screaming again, was the guy behind us testing his high horsepower boat engine at midnight, or are the guys in the rental house across the street having another wild party this Saturday night? I'm pretty sure that all the Ag associated activity I mentioned will generate a fraction of the daily traffic and noise than we had living in a relatively quiet city neighborhood.
Still, I think the actions of our AG neighbors will have much more impact on our immediate lives than our city neighbors ever did but most city dwellers wouldn't see it that way. Most of the things that bother city folk simply don't exist in the country. For one thing my new Nebraska neighbors care about the neighborhood as near as I can tell... I haven't seen any graffiti.
OK seriously, I've read some pretty interesting stuff written by Nebraska farmers about the environment, water, and ethanol that show thoughtful insight about sustainable land usage and energy policy. Local economies and the social fabric of the area is tied to Ag, and we can't wait to get settled in and meet our new neighbors. Beyond field operations, I can only speculate on how much impact our new Ag neighbors will have on our lives, but in reality, what they do around me effects you in SW Nebraska just as much.
So on those few days when my neighbors are plowing, spraying, harvesting, and whatever other farming operations are being performed, we'll just close up the windows and keep the dog inside. We had to do that almost daily in the city anyway when the neighbors were running amok.
Now lets see...if you harvest something, unless you consume it you have to transport it to your market, so I'd expect some heavy truck and farm equipment traffic. We're currently on a school bus and postal route for farms in more distant areas, so those farmers and their associated traffic will pass by. Ag producers provide habitat for deer, upland birds, and the like, so the annual pilgimage of hunters into the area may well be exciting too.
We have not seen the results of a test of the water on the farm yet, but I expect that some interesting assortment of Ag and industrial chemicals have leached into the ground water over the past 150 years or so, and we'll be filtering our water much the same as a town water well supply does. No blame... you can't change the past, and from what we've been reading, our Ag neighbors sound just as interested in clean water and a safe environment as we are.
As a city dweller, our neighbors real effect on our lives was superficial but seemed important because we delt with it daily. Were the neighbor kids screaming again, was the guy behind us testing his high horsepower boat engine at midnight, or are the guys in the rental house across the street having another wild party this Saturday night? I'm pretty sure that all the Ag associated activity I mentioned will generate a fraction of the daily traffic and noise than we had living in a relatively quiet city neighborhood.
Still, I think the actions of our AG neighbors will have much more impact on our immediate lives than our city neighbors ever did but most city dwellers wouldn't see it that way. Most of the things that bother city folk simply don't exist in the country. For one thing my new Nebraska neighbors care about the neighborhood as near as I can tell... I haven't seen any graffiti.
OK seriously, I've read some pretty interesting stuff written by Nebraska farmers about the environment, water, and ethanol that show thoughtful insight about sustainable land usage and energy policy. Local economies and the social fabric of the area is tied to Ag, and we can't wait to get settled in and meet our new neighbors. Beyond field operations, I can only speculate on how much impact our new Ag neighbors will have on our lives, but in reality, what they do around me effects you in SW Nebraska just as much.
So on those few days when my neighbors are plowing, spraying, harvesting, and whatever other farming operations are being performed, we'll just close up the windows and keep the dog inside. We had to do that almost daily in the city anyway when the neighbors were running amok.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
The Friend Of My Friends
I read someplace that we get 4 or 5 true friends in life. Sure, we get to meet a lot of people, and though we become friendly with different folks, true friends are few and far between. I think us pet lovers have an advantage in the friendship department though, as we develop a special, different kind of relationship with our pets than people do towards one another. It's hard to explain, but pet lovers know exactly what I mean.
Yesterday I learned that my friends friend passed on. Shadow was a great mutt. Paul loved telling stories about how she loved to keep cats out of the yard, and we got to know her well as Paul and Betty never went anywhere without her. We camped and went 4 wheeling with Paul, Betty, and Shadow many times over the years, and I enjoyed watching Shadow put our Springer, and in later years our Golden in their place whenever they were together. Paul built a place for Shadow to ride along on our 4x4 adventures, and Shadow saw some country few of you can even imagine on some of these trips.
Camping with Paul and Betty in the future won't be quite the same for us without Shadow. I'm saddened for my friends, because I know how they felt about their black and tan mutt that wanted little more than a pat on the head, and treat passed discretely under the table.
So long Shadow.
Yesterday I learned that my friends friend passed on. Shadow was a great mutt. Paul loved telling stories about how she loved to keep cats out of the yard, and we got to know her well as Paul and Betty never went anywhere without her. We camped and went 4 wheeling with Paul, Betty, and Shadow many times over the years, and I enjoyed watching Shadow put our Springer, and in later years our Golden in their place whenever they were together. Paul built a place for Shadow to ride along on our 4x4 adventures, and Shadow saw some country few of you can even imagine on some of these trips.
Camping with Paul and Betty in the future won't be quite the same for us without Shadow. I'm saddened for my friends, because I know how they felt about their black and tan mutt that wanted little more than a pat on the head, and treat passed discretely under the table.
So long Shadow.
Black Friday - Bah Humbug!
I recall seeing a sign someplace in town that said "Come Shop On The Bricks In McCook", or something like that. Now since I was driving through an unfamiliar town, I was paying a bit closer attention to traffic than I was to the billboards, but obviously the ad worked on me enough that I remember that there are brick streets in McCook in at least the downtown shopping area. If you are just starting to read this blog, we're newcomers buying property near Cambridge, and are not familiar with McCook yet.
What brings this to mind is that in the Thanksgiving edition of the Denver Post, the advertising sections alone weigh over 4 pounds, and that doesn't count the ads that obscure the news on almost all but the front page.
Yep, must be Black Friday. The term given to the biggest retail shopping day of the year... the day after Thanksgiving. I've read that a good many retail stores rely on the this one days sales to make or break their business.
I imagine most of you country and town folk get to miss out on some of the "excitement" of Black Friday, but city folk have lots of opportunities. Like going to bed REAL early and getting up at 11PM so you can get to the Moonlight Madness Sale at the outlet stores on the outskirts of town. This is probably the best time to shop, because the real drama starts at 4AM when the first store opens for it's"Early Bird Special" sale. The next Early Bird Special - EBS from here on - starts at 5AM just a couple miles down the road, so after running around like a chicken with it's head cut off (I've seen this and know it to be true!), it's back into the car to the 5AM EBS. Better hurry though because the next EBS is just around the corner at 5:30AM. Not much in the 5:30 EBS, but the 6AM EBS promises to be the best of all! Don't forget, the ad for the sale said "Supplies Are Limited". Oh yeah...not one of the above mentioned stores opens before 10AM other than the Christmas shopping season and a few other special shopping occasions.
Unless you have shopped this time of year in the city, you have no idea just how impersonal it can be. Well maybe you can get an idea if you've seen the evening news footage of people fighting over merchandise...if you haven't seen it yet, stand by for tomorrow night's news, there is likely to be something about a fight someplace. People seldom smile, sales clerks are frazzled, and what should be part of the joy of giving is quickly forgotten.
Now I suppose some of you have the shopping gene necessary to deal with Black Friday but me...I say bah humbug! Now shoppin' on the bricks in McCook might be OK, but Black Friday is the one day in the city I won't go shopping.
Do you blame me?
What brings this to mind is that in the Thanksgiving edition of the Denver Post, the advertising sections alone weigh over 4 pounds, and that doesn't count the ads that obscure the news on almost all but the front page.
Yep, must be Black Friday. The term given to the biggest retail shopping day of the year... the day after Thanksgiving. I've read that a good many retail stores rely on the this one days sales to make or break their business.
I imagine most of you country and town folk get to miss out on some of the "excitement" of Black Friday, but city folk have lots of opportunities. Like going to bed REAL early and getting up at 11PM so you can get to the Moonlight Madness Sale at the outlet stores on the outskirts of town. This is probably the best time to shop, because the real drama starts at 4AM when the first store opens for it's"Early Bird Special" sale. The next Early Bird Special - EBS from here on - starts at 5AM just a couple miles down the road, so after running around like a chicken with it's head cut off (I've seen this and know it to be true!), it's back into the car to the 5AM EBS. Better hurry though because the next EBS is just around the corner at 5:30AM. Not much in the 5:30 EBS, but the 6AM EBS promises to be the best of all! Don't forget, the ad for the sale said "Supplies Are Limited". Oh yeah...not one of the above mentioned stores opens before 10AM other than the Christmas shopping season and a few other special shopping occasions.
Unless you have shopped this time of year in the city, you have no idea just how impersonal it can be. Well maybe you can get an idea if you've seen the evening news footage of people fighting over merchandise...if you haven't seen it yet, stand by for tomorrow night's news, there is likely to be something about a fight someplace. People seldom smile, sales clerks are frazzled, and what should be part of the joy of giving is quickly forgotten.
Now I suppose some of you have the shopping gene necessary to deal with Black Friday but me...I say bah humbug! Now shoppin' on the bricks in McCook might be OK, but Black Friday is the one day in the city I won't go shopping.
Do you blame me?
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
The 1st Thanksgiving Was In June
Ah Thanksgiving! The food, the family, the fun. Tomorrow is the big day, and I got to wondering about the history of Thanksgiving. Here is what I found...The following (using the original wording) is considered to be the first official proclamation of our current holiday. I found this public document on the US Department of State official website.
Charlestown, Massachusetts
June 20, 1676
"The Holy God having by a long and Continual Series of his Afflictive dispensations in and by the present Warr with the Heathen Natives of this land, written and brought to pass bitter things against his own Covenant people in this wilderness, yet so that we evidently discern that in the midst of his judgements he hath remembered mercy, having remembered his Footstool in the day of his sore displeasure against us for our sins, with many singular Intimations of his Fatherly Compassion, and regard; reserving many of our Towns from Desolation Threatened, and attempted by the Enemy, and giving us especially of late with many of our Confederates many signal Advantages against them, without such Disadvantage to ourselves as formerly we have been sensible of, if it be the Lord's mercy that we are not consumed, It certainly bespeaks our positive Thankfulness, when our Enemies are in any measure disappointed or destroyed; and fearing the Lord should take notice under so many Intimations of his returning mercy, we should be found an Insensible people, as not standing before Him with Thanksgiving, as well as lading him with our Complaints in the time of pressing Afflictions:
The Council has thought meet to appoint and set apart the 29th day of this instant June, as a day of Solemn Thanksgiving and praise to God for such his Goodness and Favour, many Particulars of which mercy might be Instanced, but we doubt not those who are sensible of God's Afflictions, have been as diligent to espy him returning to us; and that the Lord may behold us as a People offering Praise and thereby glorifying Him; the Council doth commend it to the Respective Ministers, Elders and people of this Jurisdiction; Solemnly and seriously to keep the same Beseeching that being perswaded by the mercies of God we may all, even this whole people offer up our bodies and soulds as a living and acceptable Service unto God by Jesus Christ."
This also shows to me that even if religion isn't your thing, historically there's no denying that the our forefathers thought it to be pretty important.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Ridin' The Fence
In the compartmentalized lifestyle of the city, it's easy to let someone else do part of your thinking for you. For example, water along the front range of the Rockies in Colorado is a big issue with the tremendous growth the area is experiencing. Folks can read about the issue in the local papers, listen to talk radio about the subject, and even take adult education classes on the topic. Unfortunately, most city folk get their news and information spoon fed to them. The kids seemed chained to their Play Station video games, while their parents are in another room watching Brian Williams on the evening news. Newspaper readership is down, TV viewing is up, and few people are concerned about water issues, or much else for that matter outside their compartmentalized lives...somebody will take care of the problem for them...it's been that way in the city for a long time right?
As we anxiously await the finalization of our purchase of the farm, we've spent a fair amount of time learning more about local issues that impact the area, and WOW, you have some biggies around here. Water, ethanol, the economy, and taxes... OH My!
Being informed and involved with community matters is important. But right now, we're at the start of the learning curve and the opposing views on the things that matter to southwestern Nebraska are pretty far apart from an outsiders point of view.
Here's an example... It's obvious to me that ethanol and local economies are going to be tied together for the foreseeable future. I've also read some horror stories about water use, production, storage, and fire associated with ethanol production. I can tell this is a divisive issue, but guess what? For the first time in a long time, I feel like I can straddle the fence on the issues.
I don't know where the fence straddling analogy came from, but many politicians get accused of riding fences, and that's usually a bad thing. By not taking a fixed position, some politicians (none in southwestern Nebraska I'm sure) hope to avoid alienating their constituents and therefore get, or stay elected to public office.
Now politics is something I'll do my best to avoid, but when it comes to southwestern Nebraska issues, I'll be sitting on the fence for awhile too. My excuse though is that I'm so uninformed that I don't know what I don't know...yet.
As we anxiously await the finalization of our purchase of the farm, we've spent a fair amount of time learning more about local issues that impact the area, and WOW, you have some biggies around here. Water, ethanol, the economy, and taxes... OH My!
Being informed and involved with community matters is important. But right now, we're at the start of the learning curve and the opposing views on the things that matter to southwestern Nebraska are pretty far apart from an outsiders point of view.
Here's an example... It's obvious to me that ethanol and local economies are going to be tied together for the foreseeable future. I've also read some horror stories about water use, production, storage, and fire associated with ethanol production. I can tell this is a divisive issue, but guess what? For the first time in a long time, I feel like I can straddle the fence on the issues.
I don't know where the fence straddling analogy came from, but many politicians get accused of riding fences, and that's usually a bad thing. By not taking a fixed position, some politicians (none in southwestern Nebraska I'm sure) hope to avoid alienating their constituents and therefore get, or stay elected to public office.
Now politics is something I'll do my best to avoid, but when it comes to southwestern Nebraska issues, I'll be sitting on the fence for awhile too. My excuse though is that I'm so uninformed that I don't know what I don't know...yet.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Localisms
We love maps. We've spent many hours examining topographic and recreation maps. We have a GPS that interfaces with mapping software on a laptop computer to tell exactly where we are in unfamiliar territory, and we have links saved as our favorites on our computer to several online map sources.
I find it interesting that agriculture has been using GPS longer than just about anyone else, but that's not the point today...sorry I digress.
Yep...maps are great. You get official road designations, place names and the like, and they have always been helpful for us to describe how to get to a specific location.
Now in my past life, I worked in the Colorado foothills as a telephone repairman, and often our service orders had directions instead of an address. You know..."take the road along Clear Creek from highway 34 past the 3rd big tree on the right..." type directions. I like to call directions like this, and other terms that have been developed by the local populace localisms.
I thought I'd come up with a spiffy new term, but I decided to see if it is an actual word and sure enough...
Localism
1. A phrase or pronunciation that is peculiar to a particular locality
2. Sectionalism: a partiality for some particular place
Heck, I thought I'd come up with some spiffy terminology, but I suppose I read it somewhere and I've slept since then and don't have the foggiest idea where I learned about localisms but...
Localisms are usually colorful, descriptive, and often don't mean a darn thing to anyone outside the communtiy. The best example that I know of is the Minnesota term "Uff Da". Every Minnesotan I've asked where the term came from can't tell me, but they can tell me what it means to them. I've been places where the localisms sounded more like a secret code than anything else.
So I'm looking forward to learning the localisms of southwestern Nebraska. I like localisms.
I find it interesting that agriculture has been using GPS longer than just about anyone else, but that's not the point today...sorry I digress.
Yep...maps are great. You get official road designations, place names and the like, and they have always been helpful for us to describe how to get to a specific location.
Now in my past life, I worked in the Colorado foothills as a telephone repairman, and often our service orders had directions instead of an address. You know..."take the road along Clear Creek from highway 34 past the 3rd big tree on the right..." type directions. I like to call directions like this, and other terms that have been developed by the local populace localisms.
I thought I'd come up with a spiffy new term, but I decided to see if it is an actual word and sure enough...
Localism
1. A phrase or pronunciation that is peculiar to a particular locality
2. Sectionalism: a partiality for some particular place
Heck, I thought I'd come up with some spiffy terminology, but I suppose I read it somewhere and I've slept since then and don't have the foggiest idea where I learned about localisms but...
Localisms are usually colorful, descriptive, and often don't mean a darn thing to anyone outside the communtiy. The best example that I know of is the Minnesota term "Uff Da". Every Minnesotan I've asked where the term came from can't tell me, but they can tell me what it means to them. I've been places where the localisms sounded more like a secret code than anything else.
So I'm looking forward to learning the localisms of southwestern Nebraska. I like localisms.
Defining a City Slicker
I was about 10 years old the very first time I heard the term "city slicker". We were visiting my grandparents in Ewing and I was next door at my buddy Leon's house. Now Leon was really the only kid I ever got to know in Ewing, and every time we were in town, I couldn't wait to get over to Leon's so we could play.
I don't recall now how the term came out, but Leon called me a city slicker. It was the only time in my life I've been called that, and at the time, I recall thinking it was not PC (see my PC blog below) and something undesirable and to be avoided in a small town.
Jump forward 45+ years. Here we are, outsiders moving to a small town. The local folks don't have a clue about the who, what, where, when, and why of Brian & Margie. They may learn through the grapevine that some city folk are buying the old Wagner Place, and perhaps some of them will stumble on these blog entries and learn something about us that way.
Yep...we're city folk all right, but we were raised by people that grew up on the farm. We were taught that the most important possession you have is your word. We have a special love of nature and the outdoors, and though we lived in the city, we worked hard at our jobs and take pride in our property.
So what is a city slicker? Only your definition matters, but we hope you find us to be much more than what Leon was hinting at 45 years ago.
I don't recall now how the term came out, but Leon called me a city slicker. It was the only time in my life I've been called that, and at the time, I recall thinking it was not PC (see my PC blog below) and something undesirable and to be avoided in a small town.
Jump forward 45+ years. Here we are, outsiders moving to a small town. The local folks don't have a clue about the who, what, where, when, and why of Brian & Margie. They may learn through the grapevine that some city folk are buying the old Wagner Place, and perhaps some of them will stumble on these blog entries and learn something about us that way.
Yep...we're city folk all right, but we were raised by people that grew up on the farm. We were taught that the most important possession you have is your word. We have a special love of nature and the outdoors, and though we lived in the city, we worked hard at our jobs and take pride in our property.
So what is a city slicker? Only your definition matters, but we hope you find us to be much more than what Leon was hinting at 45 years ago.
Living Out Of A Post Office Box
During the last 5 years, we've traveled and lived full time in our RV. Now you might wonder how we paid our bills and received mail. It's rather amazing, but you can become a South Dakota resident simply by renting a public or commercial mailbox, obtaining a drivers license using the mailbox address, and registering and getting your vehicles titled in SD. For us, the analogy we like to use is that we moved from a 1800 square foot house into a 180 cubic inch mailbox.
Now the last statement above isn't exactly true since our motor home is actually around 350 square feet, but what we really did was trade space for time. Since we didn't have any home responsibilities, keeping Gozer (the name we chose for our motor home - from the movie Ghostbusters) and Blackie (our Jeeps name) running has been pretty much our required tasks. Our "house" may have been small, but the ground that has been under it has been something to behold.
We decided to rent a commercial mailbox because they offer personal mail forwarding services. When we got to an area we planned to stay for a couple weeks, we called our mailbox forwarding service and they would send our mail "General Delivery" to the local post office. This worked out great for us as we set up automatic electronic payment for all our recurring bills like vehicle insurance, road service (if you own a large motor home and travel much, you probably want this service), satellite Internet and TV, and of course we had income deposited automatically too, so we didn't need a local bank, just an ATM.
Living out of a mailbox offered some pretty cool perks. We camped along the Colorado River in Utah's canyon country, slept where WWII troops trained for desert combat in the Arizona desert, and overlooked the Badlands of South Dakota. We drove to Alaska along the Alcan Highway, and have seen whales breaking surface. We've camped in the shadow of tall mountains, near deep canyons, beautiful lakes, and rushing streams.
So you see, there is something to be said for living out of a post office box. By our choice of a rather remotely located property, I guess we subconsciously chose to continue living out of a mailbox in spirit anyway, away from crowds, sameness, and sprawl.
Maybe we're modern day hermits.
Now the last statement above isn't exactly true since our motor home is actually around 350 square feet, but what we really did was trade space for time. Since we didn't have any home responsibilities, keeping Gozer (the name we chose for our motor home - from the movie Ghostbusters) and Blackie (our Jeeps name) running has been pretty much our required tasks. Our "house" may have been small, but the ground that has been under it has been something to behold.
We decided to rent a commercial mailbox because they offer personal mail forwarding services. When we got to an area we planned to stay for a couple weeks, we called our mailbox forwarding service and they would send our mail "General Delivery" to the local post office. This worked out great for us as we set up automatic electronic payment for all our recurring bills like vehicle insurance, road service (if you own a large motor home and travel much, you probably want this service), satellite Internet and TV, and of course we had income deposited automatically too, so we didn't need a local bank, just an ATM.
Living out of a mailbox offered some pretty cool perks. We camped along the Colorado River in Utah's canyon country, slept where WWII troops trained for desert combat in the Arizona desert, and overlooked the Badlands of South Dakota. We drove to Alaska along the Alcan Highway, and have seen whales breaking surface. We've camped in the shadow of tall mountains, near deep canyons, beautiful lakes, and rushing streams.
So you see, there is something to be said for living out of a post office box. By our choice of a rather remotely located property, I guess we subconsciously chose to continue living out of a mailbox in spirit anyway, away from crowds, sameness, and sprawl.
Maybe we're modern day hermits.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Concrete Ships??
When we were liquidating our possessions in anticipation of hitting the road full time, we sold a book that I know will be needed on the farm. As I mentioned in an earlier post, this isn't our dream home...yet. To transform it, I'll need a bit of help, so I dropped into a large Denver area bookstore and picked up a home improvement manual. Now if you have not seen one of these books, they provide detailed information about just about every phase of home renovation and construction.
As I was thumbing through chapters from plumbing to masonry, in the concrete section of the Creative Homeowner Home Repair and Improvement book, I came across a picture of a grounded ship sticking out of the water with the following caption... "Don't feel too bad if your concrete patio is sinking. The S.S. Atlantis is an entire concrete ship that's sinking, off the coast of Cape May Point, NJ. Built as an experiment during WWI....". The caption goes on to describe how it failed because of weight...duh!
Just kidding about the "duh" part as new technologies have plenty of flubs before success, but a concrete ship? Not only were these ships used during WWI, but they were used during WWII as well! You can read more about this and other concrete ships at:
http://www.concreteships.org/
As I was thumbing through chapters from plumbing to masonry, in the concrete section of the Creative Homeowner Home Repair and Improvement book, I came across a picture of a grounded ship sticking out of the water with the following caption... "Don't feel too bad if your concrete patio is sinking. The S.S. Atlantis is an entire concrete ship that's sinking, off the coast of Cape May Point, NJ. Built as an experiment during WWI....". The caption goes on to describe how it failed because of weight...duh!
Just kidding about the "duh" part as new technologies have plenty of flubs before success, but a concrete ship? Not only were these ships used during WWI, but they were used during WWII as well! You can read more about this and other concrete ships at:
http://www.concreteships.org/
The Fun Starts & A Pat On The Back
First the pat on the back... It doesn't matter how our house purchase contracts got sent to the wrong zip code inadvertently, but what does matter is that it got fixed...FAST! It's our understanding that the US Postal Service is responsible for helping with a quick resolution to the misdirected mail, and though we don't know any of you that helped get the documents to the seller in a timely manner and returned...We Thank You!
That brings us the fun part.
Now that we've got signed contracts, we can go ahead and get home inspections scheduled. Most of these inspections will be handled by the title company, but we agreed to talk to local experts about two issues. We understand that the house heat pump has a problem that I would like to talk to service people directly about, and I want the septic pumped at my expense and a professional opinion on the systems condition.
The power has been turned off, so we're sending a check to cover turning on power for home inspections to Twin Valleys PPD. I feel pretty ignorant about scheduling something like a temporary power turn-on, but I wrote what I think is a pretty descriptive letter of what is happening, explained that I don't know what to do, and asked "What's Next?"
We also learned that we get to have our blog hosted by the McCook Daily Gazette, and we'll be migrating most of this blogs content over there in the coming weeks. The Gazette hosted blog will ultimately become a copy of this blog, but in case I tick somebody off there and they pull the plug on us, we will still have a copy available.
Another pat on the back...
The sellers real estate agent, Diane Hoffman of Gateway Real Estate of McCook has been wonderful to deal with so far, and I told her that she is earning my 5 star recommendation. Though she works for the seller, we feel like she is working for us. She contacted the proper folks in the Cambridge town leadership and got us permission to stay in the town operated RV park for more than the posted 3 day limit. Thanks Diane!
That brings us the fun part.
Now that we've got signed contracts, we can go ahead and get home inspections scheduled. Most of these inspections will be handled by the title company, but we agreed to talk to local experts about two issues. We understand that the house heat pump has a problem that I would like to talk to service people directly about, and I want the septic pumped at my expense and a professional opinion on the systems condition.
The power has been turned off, so we're sending a check to cover turning on power for home inspections to Twin Valleys PPD. I feel pretty ignorant about scheduling something like a temporary power turn-on, but I wrote what I think is a pretty descriptive letter of what is happening, explained that I don't know what to do, and asked "What's Next?"
We also learned that we get to have our blog hosted by the McCook Daily Gazette, and we'll be migrating most of this blogs content over there in the coming weeks. The Gazette hosted blog will ultimately become a copy of this blog, but in case I tick somebody off there and they pull the plug on us, we will still have a copy available.
Another pat on the back...
The sellers real estate agent, Diane Hoffman of Gateway Real Estate of McCook has been wonderful to deal with so far, and I told her that she is earning my 5 star recommendation. Though she works for the seller, we feel like she is working for us. She contacted the proper folks in the Cambridge town leadership and got us permission to stay in the town operated RV park for more than the posted 3 day limit. Thanks Diane!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Political Correctness
PC = Politically Correct
A term flashed around the city quite often is "PC". It's become a catch-all phrase to cover a host of verbal or written indiscretions that might offend someone. To be PC nowadays, you say a person of Spanish decent is Latino, and a Black person is that...not Negro or other slang terms....That's the PC way to say things according to whoever makes up the rules. I've actually had required corporate training on this stuff.
I'm not considered in a racial minority, but I firmly believe in embracing diversity as I think that is much of the foundation that this great country was built on. My folks taught me everyone is created equal, and I sure don't want to offend anyone by the careless use of terminology.
BUT...when PC-edness goes over the top, I'm pretty sure we're making the right choice on where we're choosing to live. I read several different web sites for news and entertainment, and the Yahoo headline this morning was...
"No more 'ho ho ho' - Santa's are told to say "ha ha ha" instead of "ho ho ho" so they don't offend women."
I don't know about you, but when my grand kids (if I ever have any) come to the farm and we go into town to see Santa, I sure hope he BELLERS "HO! HO! HO!"
And another thing...is it OK to say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Hollidays? I love the meaning behind "Merry Christmas", and if my saying that offends you, then I don't think you get it when it comes to American liberty and freedom.
To hell with being "PC" on these two items in my book! Are we moving to a place with some common sense to go with PC? We're counting on it!
A term flashed around the city quite often is "PC". It's become a catch-all phrase to cover a host of verbal or written indiscretions that might offend someone. To be PC nowadays, you say a person of Spanish decent is Latino, and a Black person is that...not Negro or other slang terms....That's the PC way to say things according to whoever makes up the rules. I've actually had required corporate training on this stuff.
I'm not considered in a racial minority, but I firmly believe in embracing diversity as I think that is much of the foundation that this great country was built on. My folks taught me everyone is created equal, and I sure don't want to offend anyone by the careless use of terminology.
BUT...when PC-edness goes over the top, I'm pretty sure we're making the right choice on where we're choosing to live. I read several different web sites for news and entertainment, and the Yahoo headline this morning was...
"No more 'ho ho ho' - Santa's are told to say "ha ha ha" instead of "ho ho ho" so they don't offend women."
I don't know about you, but when my grand kids (if I ever have any) come to the farm and we go into town to see Santa, I sure hope he BELLERS "HO! HO! HO!"
And another thing...is it OK to say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Hollidays? I love the meaning behind "Merry Christmas", and if my saying that offends you, then I don't think you get it when it comes to American liberty and freedom.
To hell with being "PC" on these two items in my book! Are we moving to a place with some common sense to go with PC? We're counting on it!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Importance Of Email - One Man's Perspective
We're pretty high tech savvy, though these new cell phones with text messaging, Internet access, MP3, and picture taking ability have features we don't need or want. Now while we don't need them, I can see how a lot of folks could use them. Technology marches on.
When I was a kid in Omaha, the comic section of the World Herald had Dick Tracy as it's #1 cartoon. Dick was way ahead of the curve when it came to high tech. His two-way wrist radio, later to be a wrist worn TV phone is almost a reality over 40 years later with the new miniature IPod, Razr, IPhone, or whatever the actual names are of these miniature devices. Now I admit Dick may not have been from Earth...his girlfriend was the Moon Maid if I remember right, but today high tech communication is part of daily life for most of us. The science fiction of only a short time ago is now reality.
So what's our point?
If you care, most of us city folk have become pretty dependent on high tech. We'd have a hard time getting by without the Internet because we use it as a library to the world. Personally, email is our #1 source of communication, but from our limited experience using email in Nebraska, many folks are slow checking their electronic mailbox or don't at all. Makes me wonder why you would advertise an email address and then not check it regularly. You would be better served providing only a phone number, if you ignore email, we figure you don't want our business.
You might wonder how we find email addresses in rural areas. You may not be aware that your town has a web site with business listings, but I am. I know how to use the Internet as a search tool for finding out information about just about anything, including rather obscure information such as the depth of your town wells. (Cambridge I discovered has 2 wells 65 feet deep for example).
Now I know if you never get emails, or all you get seems to be junk mail, it's easy to forget to check your electronic mailbox. But if you are in business and don't constantly check your email, you WILL lose out on business, and competition that does answer their email may run you out of town in the long run.
Consider this...Our experience in Nebraska so far is that, state run offices do a good job of replying to email, churches are the worst, and MOST (not all) companies we've written have provided slow or no response at all!
Mr. business man and community members, if you don't want business from outside your community, one little way to help is ignore your email or don't answer it in a timely manner. It may seem like a small thing, but if you choose this route, your prospective customers may go somewhere else for products and services...we did.
When I was a kid in Omaha, the comic section of the World Herald had Dick Tracy as it's #1 cartoon. Dick was way ahead of the curve when it came to high tech. His two-way wrist radio, later to be a wrist worn TV phone is almost a reality over 40 years later with the new miniature IPod, Razr, IPhone, or whatever the actual names are of these miniature devices. Now I admit Dick may not have been from Earth...his girlfriend was the Moon Maid if I remember right, but today high tech communication is part of daily life for most of us. The science fiction of only a short time ago is now reality.
So what's our point?
If you care, most of us city folk have become pretty dependent on high tech. We'd have a hard time getting by without the Internet because we use it as a library to the world. Personally, email is our #1 source of communication, but from our limited experience using email in Nebraska, many folks are slow checking their electronic mailbox or don't at all. Makes me wonder why you would advertise an email address and then not check it regularly. You would be better served providing only a phone number, if you ignore email, we figure you don't want our business.
You might wonder how we find email addresses in rural areas. You may not be aware that your town has a web site with business listings, but I am. I know how to use the Internet as a search tool for finding out information about just about anything, including rather obscure information such as the depth of your town wells. (Cambridge I discovered has 2 wells 65 feet deep for example).
Now I know if you never get emails, or all you get seems to be junk mail, it's easy to forget to check your electronic mailbox. But if you are in business and don't constantly check your email, you WILL lose out on business, and competition that does answer their email may run you out of town in the long run.
Consider this...Our experience in Nebraska so far is that, state run offices do a good job of replying to email, churches are the worst, and MOST (not all) companies we've written have provided slow or no response at all!
Mr. business man and community members, if you don't want business from outside your community, one little way to help is ignore your email or don't answer it in a timely manner. It may seem like a small thing, but if you choose this route, your prospective customers may go somewhere else for products and services...we did.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Anticipation - Part 1
Today was our daughters 24th birthday, and her first opportunity to see the photos of the farm we've taken so far. We had a great time trying to describe what she was looking at from time to time, and we found it easier to show a Google Earth image, and then point to the photo as that gave her a pretty good idea what she was looking at. She started making plans to spend Christmas with us on the farm, and I think she liked what she saw in the photos for the most part.
Today was also a day of waiting for something exciting to happen with our purchase of the farm. Being from the city, we're experiencing a slightly different buying experience than our previous city transactions. City folk don't talk about making a deal without a signed contract and a check to back it up. Our farm deal was worked out over the phone, partly because the seller is out of the area I imagine. If he had been local, I suppose it might have been the same scenario as a city transaction.
So we're in anticipation mode at the moment waiting for the seller to sign and return contracts so we can get on with scheduling several home inspections. This is quite a different feeling for us as we're ready and excited to take possession of the farm, and we're still 5 weeks away.
Transition Note:
After driving around the Denver area for a couple days, two things got emphasized we will NOT miss about living in a city...
1. Rush Hour
2. Traffic Lights
Today was also a day of waiting for something exciting to happen with our purchase of the farm. Being from the city, we're experiencing a slightly different buying experience than our previous city transactions. City folk don't talk about making a deal without a signed contract and a check to back it up. Our farm deal was worked out over the phone, partly because the seller is out of the area I imagine. If he had been local, I suppose it might have been the same scenario as a city transaction.
So we're in anticipation mode at the moment waiting for the seller to sign and return contracts so we can get on with scheduling several home inspections. This is quite a different feeling for us as we're ready and excited to take possession of the farm, and we're still 5 weeks away.
Transition Note:
After driving around the Denver area for a couple days, two things got emphasized we will NOT miss about living in a city...
1. Rush Hour
2. Traffic Lights
Monday, November 12, 2007
The Leading Edge
Have you seen the movie "Dances With Wolves"? The main character John Dunbar (Dances With Wolves), is asked by the indians "how many" white's are coming, and his response was "Like the stars".
We think the "Boomers" are coming this time, and they may change your way of life.
A couple weeks ago, we saw on the news that the first "official" boomer (The first person born after midnight January 1, 1946) has applied for Social Security. One heck of a lot of boomers live in cities, and many of those city folk are just like us...they want to live someplace where the pace of life is slower than the high pressure lives they are accustomed to in the cities.
Now we're not clairvoyant, fortune tellers, or in any way prognosticators of the future, but I believe we are on the leading edge of another era of population migration. We've read a lot about the outward migration of rural America, but in some parts of the country, the outward migration has ceased, and rural population growth is outpacing local communities abilities to provide necessary services.
One good part of this migration for rural America I think is that most of these folks bring with them financial resources, and are not looking for work in most cases. Many will come with the idea of starting a home based business, and with the Internet, satellite and cellular communications, and "to your door" package delivery and pickup, a viable home based economy might just be possible.
Jobs will automatically follow to support these new residents, and with population growth comes construction of course. But there will be problems too. New residents may demand city services the cost of which will be passed on to all residents. Politics as usual for the area could be turned upside down, and crime and related law enforcement issues could follow. Expanded health care for an aging population will likely be needed too.
With quick growth comes quick problems. Communities can lose their identities with the influx of large numbers of people that may or may not share the same values as established area residents. Poor growth planning, or underestimating the speed of growth might lead to the loss of what you want your community to be. You can see where rural areas just 10 years ago along the front range of the Rockies in Colorado are now checkerboard housing developments with neighbors stacked on top of each other.
We hope we have the same set of values and desires for our new community as the long time residents. We picked this area because there seems to be limited development and growth. We've seen explosive growth in many places we've traveled, and the results are usually sprawl, sameness, and loss of community...all things we hope our new area communities in southwest Nebraska can find a way to avoid.
We think the "Boomers" are coming this time, and they may change your way of life.
A couple weeks ago, we saw on the news that the first "official" boomer (The first person born after midnight January 1, 1946) has applied for Social Security. One heck of a lot of boomers live in cities, and many of those city folk are just like us...they want to live someplace where the pace of life is slower than the high pressure lives they are accustomed to in the cities.
Now we're not clairvoyant, fortune tellers, or in any way prognosticators of the future, but I believe we are on the leading edge of another era of population migration. We've read a lot about the outward migration of rural America, but in some parts of the country, the outward migration has ceased, and rural population growth is outpacing local communities abilities to provide necessary services.
One good part of this migration for rural America I think is that most of these folks bring with them financial resources, and are not looking for work in most cases. Many will come with the idea of starting a home based business, and with the Internet, satellite and cellular communications, and "to your door" package delivery and pickup, a viable home based economy might just be possible.
Jobs will automatically follow to support these new residents, and with population growth comes construction of course. But there will be problems too. New residents may demand city services the cost of which will be passed on to all residents. Politics as usual for the area could be turned upside down, and crime and related law enforcement issues could follow. Expanded health care for an aging population will likely be needed too.
With quick growth comes quick problems. Communities can lose their identities with the influx of large numbers of people that may or may not share the same values as established area residents. Poor growth planning, or underestimating the speed of growth might lead to the loss of what you want your community to be. You can see where rural areas just 10 years ago along the front range of the Rockies in Colorado are now checkerboard housing developments with neighbors stacked on top of each other.
We hope we have the same set of values and desires for our new community as the long time residents. We picked this area because there seems to be limited development and growth. We've seen explosive growth in many places we've traveled, and the results are usually sprawl, sameness, and loss of community...all things we hope our new area communities in southwest Nebraska can find a way to avoid.
Trees & Tractors
News of our impending purchase of the farm is spreading quickly among our friends and family. Margie's Dad and brother were deer hunting in Minnesota when the news broke, and they decided to swing by to see just what we got ourselves into on their way back to Colorado. Brother-in-law got to meet some of Nebraska's finest north of McCook on his way, and will be making his contribution to the public coffers.
After visiting the farm...
Dad's quote - "You sure got a lot of work in front of you"
Brothers quote - "Cool Place! I love the tractor"
Now you need to understand that Margie's Dad is a work-a-holic...a seemingly boundless source of energy. He loves to cut and trim trees, and can quickly see that we probably have a lifetime supply of firewood, a boatload of brush to take care of, and outbuildings to do something with.
Brother-in-law thinks power tools...he showed up today with the tractor trader magazine. Wow...some of this power Ag stuff costs BIG bucks.
I can just see myself...Oliver Wendell Douglas (the city farmer from Green Acres TV show) bouncing across the field on my tractor. HA!
After visiting the farm...
Dad's quote - "You sure got a lot of work in front of you"
Brothers quote - "Cool Place! I love the tractor"
Now you need to understand that Margie's Dad is a work-a-holic...a seemingly boundless source of energy. He loves to cut and trim trees, and can quickly see that we probably have a lifetime supply of firewood, a boatload of brush to take care of, and outbuildings to do something with.
Brother-in-law thinks power tools...he showed up today with the tractor trader magazine. Wow...some of this power Ag stuff costs BIG bucks.
I can just see myself...Oliver Wendell Douglas (the city farmer from Green Acres TV show) bouncing across the field on my tractor. HA!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Veterans Day - Remembering Brian's Dad
Two years ago today my Dad passed away. He was born near a place called Venus, Nebraska February 21, 1916. The Venus store is where the name came from, but it was located a short distance northeast of Orchard along highway 20 in the northeastern part of the state.
He grew up on a dryland farm without electricity or indoor plumbing, and wood stoves and ice houses were the way things were heated and kept cold. The family didn't have much, and Dad mentioned putting cardboard in his shoes to extend their life. He rode a Shetland Pony to the school 3 miles away as a boy, went off to the Grand Island Business College, joined the Army and served during WWII, married my Mom, and worked as a railway mail clerk sorting mail on the California Zephyr between Omaha & Cheyenne Wyoming. When the Postal Service ceased mail service via rail, Dad was transferred to Denver where he retired several years later. Mom and Dad ended up moving to Washington state where Mom still resides.
Somewhere in there, I came into their lives. Dad taught me to fish, hunt, a special love of the outdoors, honesty, and to respect others and their property. We hiked, camped, and traveled throughout the USA and Canada, and I now know just how lucky I was as a kid to get to see and experience what many never get the chance to. Dad's railway mail job had him out of town several days a month, but he always made up for it when he was home. He taught me to use a hammer, saw and level, and I know these skills will come in very handy in the near future.
Thanks for everything Dad...you are as much a part of our buying the farm as anyone. I suppose you're up there smiling (you know) wondering when our minds took the walk off the map and decided to buy the farm.
He grew up on a dryland farm without electricity or indoor plumbing, and wood stoves and ice houses were the way things were heated and kept cold. The family didn't have much, and Dad mentioned putting cardboard in his shoes to extend their life. He rode a Shetland Pony to the school 3 miles away as a boy, went off to the Grand Island Business College, joined the Army and served during WWII, married my Mom, and worked as a railway mail clerk sorting mail on the California Zephyr between Omaha & Cheyenne Wyoming. When the Postal Service ceased mail service via rail, Dad was transferred to Denver where he retired several years later. Mom and Dad ended up moving to Washington state where Mom still resides.
Somewhere in there, I came into their lives. Dad taught me to fish, hunt, a special love of the outdoors, honesty, and to respect others and their property. We hiked, camped, and traveled throughout the USA and Canada, and I now know just how lucky I was as a kid to get to see and experience what many never get the chance to. Dad's railway mail job had him out of town several days a month, but he always made up for it when he was home. He taught me to use a hammer, saw and level, and I know these skills will come in very handy in the near future.
Thanks for everything Dad...you are as much a part of our buying the farm as anyone. I suppose you're up there smiling (you know) wondering when our minds took the walk off the map and decided to buy the farm.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Sand Burrs
While tramping around inspecting the farm prior to making an offer to purchase the property, our Golden Retreiver Casey found the sand burrs. Now I remember these little buggers from being a kid visiting my grandparents in Holt county, and as most people already know, you don't want them sticking you very badly...they sting. Unfortuntely our dogs fur seems to be one of the dang things favorite targets.
Margie was emailing family details of our propective purchase, and mentioned that we will need to try and spray for the sand burrs so the dog doesn't get covered constantly. Brian's native Nebraska aunt Wilma replyed..."You don't get rid of them, you avoid them".
I hope a natural or chemical cure can be found to make a major dent in the sand burr population on the farm. I've noticed a few folks use Zoysia grass (I think that's it), and I know it's drought tollerant and would probably choke out the little devils... Any other suggestions?
Margie was emailing family details of our propective purchase, and mentioned that we will need to try and spray for the sand burrs so the dog doesn't get covered constantly. Brian's native Nebraska aunt Wilma replyed..."You don't get rid of them, you avoid them".
I hope a natural or chemical cure can be found to make a major dent in the sand burr population on the farm. I've noticed a few folks use Zoysia grass (I think that's it), and I know it's drought tollerant and would probably choke out the little devils... Any other suggestions?
How we found "The Farm"
OK...so we're internet junkies. To us, it's the most useful tool available for finding current information about anything. We started looking at rural property early this year using real estate web sites. This gave us the opportunity to look at a large number of property listings across several states.
We had a good idea what we wanted, and what states we were willing to look at, but finding the diamond in the rough took hundreds of hours spent in front of the computer looking at a wide range of property listings. After a couple property inspections that were less than our vision of dream property, we saw this picture and the following description ...
This 4 bedroom home located on 5 +/-acres offers a heat pump, central air, newer septic, RO system, roof, and gutter. Outbuildings include a barn, open front carport, and grain bin. If you have been wanting to experience country living, check this one out.
Well...it sounded perfect, and the listing gave directions to the property. I used Google Earth to get an idea of what to expect from the country side. The 3D capability made it possible to virtually fly over the entire Mineral Creek area, and spot the property for a glimpse of what we might find.
If you have not used Google Earth and have a high speed internet connection, you can find your house, neighborhood or look down on just about everywhere in the world. The following picture is a Google Earth image of our country paradise.
So that's how we located our country home...hereinafter refered to in this blog as "The Farm". I know it is NOT a farm, but it's located in farm country, it is our blog, and we'll call it what we want to thank you very much. Consider it our contribution to freedom of speech.
We had a good idea what we wanted, and what states we were willing to look at, but finding the diamond in the rough took hundreds of hours spent in front of the computer looking at a wide range of property listings. After a couple property inspections that were less than our vision of dream property, we saw this picture and the following description ...
This 4 bedroom home located on 5 +/-acres offers a heat pump, central air, newer septic, RO system, roof, and gutter. Outbuildings include a barn, open front carport, and grain bin. If you have been wanting to experience country living, check this one out.
Well...it sounded perfect, and the listing gave directions to the property. I used Google Earth to get an idea of what to expect from the country side. The 3D capability made it possible to virtually fly over the entire Mineral Creek area, and spot the property for a glimpse of what we might find.
If you have not used Google Earth and have a high speed internet connection, you can find your house, neighborhood or look down on just about everywhere in the world. The following picture is a Google Earth image of our country paradise.
So that's how we located our country home...hereinafter refered to in this blog as "The Farm". I know it is NOT a farm, but it's located in farm country, it is our blog, and we'll call it what we want to thank you very much. Consider it our contribution to freedom of speech.
Getting From There To Here...
We've got a few days before excitement really starts for us, but here is a little background...
During the last 5 years of full time RV living, we seldom stayed in an RV park. We prefered to boondock (dispersed camping- camping outside a developed campground) for extended periods of time. We considered our motor home to be our 1 bedroom portable cabin.
We equiped our rig with hundreds of watts of solar panels, deep cycle 6 volt batteries hooked to a powerful inverter for 110 volt AC power, satellite internet and TV, large fresh and waste water tanks, backup generator, and a sense of adventure that took us to places that our motor home maybe should not have been...but that's a whole different story. We can stay for a couple weeks anywhere without need of water, electric, or dump station.
We know that we crave solitude, and frankly, that's not readily available anymore on public lands. There are more and more folk looking for recreation on public lands, so it's starting to get crowded. Private land ownership can be the answer for folks like us seeking solitude, and many people gravitate towads the mini ranchette trying to find it. Please don't get me wrong, but to us, the common 5 and 10 acre ranchette is much like living in the suburbs, only with a very large yard.
Nope...what we needed was an old farm house that the surrounding crop lands had been sold off, maybe with some outbuildings. A view would be nice, not too far from a good grocery store, pizza and a gas station... sounded like a reasonable place to start looking for.
Next up...How we found this particular "diamond in the rough".
During the last 5 years of full time RV living, we seldom stayed in an RV park. We prefered to boondock (dispersed camping- camping outside a developed campground) for extended periods of time. We considered our motor home to be our 1 bedroom portable cabin.
We equiped our rig with hundreds of watts of solar panels, deep cycle 6 volt batteries hooked to a powerful inverter for 110 volt AC power, satellite internet and TV, large fresh and waste water tanks, backup generator, and a sense of adventure that took us to places that our motor home maybe should not have been...but that's a whole different story. We can stay for a couple weeks anywhere without need of water, electric, or dump station.
We know that we crave solitude, and frankly, that's not readily available anymore on public lands. There are more and more folk looking for recreation on public lands, so it's starting to get crowded. Private land ownership can be the answer for folks like us seeking solitude, and many people gravitate towads the mini ranchette trying to find it. Please don't get me wrong, but to us, the common 5 and 10 acre ranchette is much like living in the suburbs, only with a very large yard.
Nope...what we needed was an old farm house that the surrounding crop lands had been sold off, maybe with some outbuildings. A view would be nice, not too far from a good grocery store, pizza and a gas station... sounded like a reasonable place to start looking for.
Next up...How we found this particular "diamond in the rough".
What Was Brian Thinking?
Howdy!
What have we done? Why have we done it? How does it feel? Where do we go from here?
Well...Here we go!
We've lived in cities our whole lives...except for the last 5 that have been spent living and traveling full time in our motor home. Yesterday, us city folk bought the farm. Well sorta...
We're not farmers nor do we want to be, but we crave what we think the country offers, like a quiet, relaxed lifestyle where people mean what they say, not what they want you to think. We worked high technology jobs in Colorado and had a pretty nice house in the suburbs. We never got to know any of our neighbors well, hated the traffic, disliked city noise and pollution, spent our weekends in the Colorado high country trying to escape the rat race of the city, and found it harder and harder to get away for some solitude.
Bang! Step back 5 years or so... Retired and separated from working lives, we sold our house and everything in it and moved into our motor home. We've traveled throughout the western US, Canada, and into Alaska. We've followed the seasons, and have visited many areas repeatedly and have seen the unbridled growth throughout the west. We've been constantly looking for the "perfect" place to settle down. A place where we can be comfortable and not live in a 5 acre "ranchette", gated, or covenants controlled community.
Bang! Yesterday...we made an offer on a 5 acre former hog operation in a windbreak near Cambridge NE, and it was ACCEPTED! The property has been neglected for quite a while and the outbuildings need "help!". We're surrounded by fields, and we can't see a single neighbor. We're on top of a hill, and can see distant farms, and the Medicine Creek valley is in sight.
We didn't expect to find what we think will be our dream home, and it's a LONG way from being that. You have to have an interesting sense of "vision" to imagine this farm property as being someones dream home, but we've got the time and determination to make it exactly what we want...we think we've got a great start!
We've got home inspections to go through, cold weather coming on, and decisions to make about spending winter in Nebraska, or heading for warmer winter weather and starting our country transition in the spring. We own no furniture or appliances, and only what fits in a large motor home as our starting point for this move...
I guess Brian got his first Deere yesterday...
What have we done? Why have we done it? How does it feel? Where do we go from here?
Well...Here we go!
We've lived in cities our whole lives...except for the last 5 that have been spent living and traveling full time in our motor home. Yesterday, us city folk bought the farm. Well sorta...
We're not farmers nor do we want to be, but we crave what we think the country offers, like a quiet, relaxed lifestyle where people mean what they say, not what they want you to think. We worked high technology jobs in Colorado and had a pretty nice house in the suburbs. We never got to know any of our neighbors well, hated the traffic, disliked city noise and pollution, spent our weekends in the Colorado high country trying to escape the rat race of the city, and found it harder and harder to get away for some solitude.
Bang! Step back 5 years or so... Retired and separated from working lives, we sold our house and everything in it and moved into our motor home. We've traveled throughout the western US, Canada, and into Alaska. We've followed the seasons, and have visited many areas repeatedly and have seen the unbridled growth throughout the west. We've been constantly looking for the "perfect" place to settle down. A place where we can be comfortable and not live in a 5 acre "ranchette", gated, or covenants controlled community.
Bang! Yesterday...we made an offer on a 5 acre former hog operation in a windbreak near Cambridge NE, and it was ACCEPTED! The property has been neglected for quite a while and the outbuildings need "help!". We're surrounded by fields, and we can't see a single neighbor. We're on top of a hill, and can see distant farms, and the Medicine Creek valley is in sight.
We didn't expect to find what we think will be our dream home, and it's a LONG way from being that. You have to have an interesting sense of "vision" to imagine this farm property as being someones dream home, but we've got the time and determination to make it exactly what we want...we think we've got a great start!
We've got home inspections to go through, cold weather coming on, and decisions to make about spending winter in Nebraska, or heading for warmer winter weather and starting our country transition in the spring. We own no furniture or appliances, and only what fits in a large motor home as our starting point for this move...
I guess Brian got his first Deere yesterday...
She thinks my tractor's sexy?? What a gal!!!
Should be interesting!
You can help! We welcome any and all suggestions to help us make this transition. What are we overlooking? What would you do? Why would you do it? Let us know, and thanks for following along with the City Slickers.
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