Different

James is in mourning for me. I'm learning how to live alone now but it doesn't seem to be too challenging so far.  

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Winter is Arriving!

Yes, the ice is forming and it soon will reach about one to three feet in thickness. The usual ice fishermen will come. They will be dressed VERY warmly, on foot and on quads bringing their tents, augers, pails, tipups, scoops, nets, needlenose pliers, live shiners and creekchubs. Hand warmers, paper towels, thermoses, and snacks usually accompany them. Portable radios are often brought along; cell phones, as well, I suppose. Some prefer to jig and bring short poles and mealworms as bait. Ice cleats are usually strapped to their insulated boots. Small fires are sometimes built on the ice with firewood which is transported with sleds to their personal spots. (Remember the matches!) With noses running, eyes tearing and constant vigil around the holes with ice crystals ever floating over them, the result is sometimes a nice crappie, perch, bass, pickerel or sunny. Some anglers prefer solitude but most like to chat with others and swap stories. It's all in a day's fun. The tents, huts and shantys are removed as the winds whip and the snow swirls on the anglers' trek or ride across the ice and back to their waiting vehicles.

My personal opinion is that the fish down in that black hole departed and stayed missing after the roar and vibration of the drill bit first hit that ice! My ounce of adventure does NOT included the sport.

Words of winter wisdom:

Be wary of weather and wind chill, watchful on the ice, and stay warm and dry.

James - 2011

Frozen in January.

He started of the year with a new scarf and continued to become a fashion plate. His duds were varied through the seasons. In April, his attire drew a comment from a young grandson, who said, "Grandma! James would be embarrassed if he saw himself in flowers! He's girly!" Well, yes he was, but Spring was here and she brings birds, bugs and flowers. Besides, what is most beautiful in virile men is something feminine!

July brought flags, banners, and fireworks as he celebrated Independence Day with us by displaying the symbols of our independence.

August is a grand month for going fishing, exhibiting your license on your hat of course, and then for a birthday party celebration! As anticipated, his buddy "Wylie" breezed in.

When we left him for our extended vacation in September, he was chained to the premises as it was important to ensure he'd remain safely on guard. He aged during that time, becoming a bit greener around the gills, but staunchly held his ground even though his hat was snatched by a crow!

Turkey feathers RED??? Well, why not! Thanksgiving is all about thankfulness for colorful leaves, pilgrims, indians, gatherings, friends and family.

James is, after all, family!

Thinking Back..

The children eventually numbered six, but back in 1966 there were four - all dressed up for Easter Sunday. I notice stockings and gloves on the girls and tie clips on the boys.

There was snow still on the ground in northern New Jersey that day, but not one of the youngsters looked cold or uncomfortable.

Yes, times have changed.