tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66371680367129635432024-02-23T20:02:52.305-06:00The Everyday AdventurerThe World Belongs To You. Take It While You Can. Become An Everyday Adventurer.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.comBlogger1492125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-49326621308569764152024-01-03T08:00:00.001-06:002024-01-03T08:00:00.136-06:00My Blizzard Hike Misadventure<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4-mP5B-H52_yxU6wZKtPQo27jNf_3YTG4fOiP0bBBHkqkVt5Ub9pEb7S6VJFjyciC_VDyE5oMY2NTa4WhSdL8u_WvIsB-jHoLiU4zKVrIzR5MxK5FJWb7l5kMIwld9JTyiwNsg-01_j_jAdMMOP_Ue-MsKThJbMtpY4Hs9yYUfpUpmXiTqCmSP_VuG9a/s1024/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4-mP5B-H52_yxU6wZKtPQo27jNf_3YTG4fOiP0bBBHkqkVt5Ub9pEb7S6VJFjyciC_VDyE5oMY2NTa4WhSdL8u_WvIsB-jHoLiU4zKVrIzR5MxK5FJWb7l5kMIwld9JTyiwNsg-01_j_jAdMMOP_Ue-MsKThJbMtpY4Hs9yYUfpUpmXiTqCmSP_VuG9a/w400-h400/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2001.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>Hey there, fellow nature enthusiasts and reckless adventurers! Today, I'm here to share a tale that you might think is a little funny but also wags a finger at the more foolhardy among us. It's about the time I decided to challenge Mother Nature herself and learned a lesson in humility – and physics.<br /><br />Picture this: a few years back, I was your everyday hiking adventurer, hitting the trails of my local nature park with the enthusiasm of a squirrel on an acorn hunt. Rain or shine, I was there. But then came the day when the news forecast a blizzard. Did that stop me? Of course not! I laced up my boots, grabbed my trusty camera (a partner in all my escapades), and headed out into a winter wonderland.<br /><br />The trails were a blanket of untouched snow, and the snowfall was so thick it turned the world into a giant snow globe. I was a few miles in when I decided to take a loop back, probably prompted by the tiny voice of reason that I usually keep gagged and bound in the back of my mind.<br /><br />As I trudged along, I reached the top of a large gulley. It looked innocent enough, but looks, as we know, can be deceiving. The moment I stepped onto the snowy and icy slope, my feet decided they had enough of being under my control. Whoosh! Down I went, sliding all the way down the hill. It was like an impromptu sled ride, minus the sled. And in a desperate attempt to save my camera, I held it high above my head like a trophy, making the whole scene look like a bizarre ritual to the snow gods.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjdBZdSFl07VR90i4GG2v8cenEJntfba6Ic2IWZ0LvqwnNbV5lE_yRwlL2bE9VYlsEXHQAGV8M1VhqU8-6bW5TahTGrNqGblZLR8MLq90QYdjmfqMMJutFP_EFs91HCR1aPrEmIV7sMaX8fNguqJyt0VBH304FNlDD6ap2aLfDcOMzO3iqLfTUTbqh934/s1024/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjdBZdSFl07VR90i4GG2v8cenEJntfba6Ic2IWZ0LvqwnNbV5lE_yRwlL2bE9VYlsEXHQAGV8M1VhqU8-6bW5TahTGrNqGblZLR8MLq90QYdjmfqMMJutFP_EFs91HCR1aPrEmIV7sMaX8fNguqJyt0VBH304FNlDD6ap2aLfDcOMzO3iqLfTUTbqh934/w400-h400/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2002.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />When the ride was over, I lay there on my back, a human snow angel (or snowman-in-progress). First things first, I checked for injuries – none, thankfully. My camera? Also unscathed. It seems luck favors the foolish – sometimes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0lfm_0q-SD4lli6bB-epMCMXT8pVyCl-ebQSOQn9SUPisBkRLxS7XXrCKI3kfKjPXZoabZZLMo5U2P-H1q2e-BdHD9CGnDgcJ4ro0Z21l-E_nh074rbxYEdEAsD0WW8LVj1OoX4Ps7A7Au8ZdG_5ioVx6I-ZMm4iztNwty1T0dKVZgdZNOUdKM2jb1A2y/s1024/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0lfm_0q-SD4lli6bB-epMCMXT8pVyCl-ebQSOQn9SUPisBkRLxS7XXrCKI3kfKjPXZoabZZLMo5U2P-H1q2e-BdHD9CGnDgcJ4ro0Z21l-E_nh074rbxYEdEAsD0WW8LVj1OoX4Ps7A7Au8ZdG_5ioVx6I-ZMm4iztNwty1T0dKVZgdZNOUdKM2jb1A2y/w400-h400/My%20Blizzard%20Hike%20Misadventure%2003.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>Getting up, I decided that was enough thrill-seeking for one day. I walked back to the park exit with the cautious steps of someone who's just learned their lesson. That day, my love for hiking had pushed me into a foolhardy blizzard adventure.<br /><br />So, here's the moral of the story: love nature, enjoy hiking, but maybe, just maybe, when the news screams 'blizzard,' it's a good idea to listen. Stay safe out there and remember, a good story is only fun if you're around to tell it!</p><p>I'll talk to you later. <br /></p><p></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-73515923066594533722023-11-13T08:00:00.009-06:002023-11-13T09:15:02.009-06:00A Blustery Day's Shock While Hiking in the Forest<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHoDdWk-0zaTC956z8TlQ01sydfqoFGisiQmUpHo-bcVZ5Er4uEgmMxX0kOSK7uYgh6hn9B4Tr98HR8ToYG1_Q3NejfTTQIS0sZF1jKEUtCm1whemqH9nE1xGGbVE-WEn_iQIkjYaBW0ZqdqcKpfR1Olnr12SqDRO2od0QD8OF1rFQjnCdDq1nt1kNztA/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-13%2000.48.42%20-%20A%20man%20alone%20on%20a%20forest%20path,%20hiking%20on%20a%20dark,%20windy%20day.%20He%20is%20dressed%20in%20appropriate%20hiking%20gear,%20walking%20along%20a%20narrow,%20winding%20path%20surrounded%20b.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSHoDdWk-0zaTC956z8TlQ01sydfqoFGisiQmUpHo-bcVZ5Er4uEgmMxX0kOSK7uYgh6hn9B4Tr98HR8ToYG1_Q3NejfTTQIS0sZF1jKEUtCm1whemqH9nE1xGGbVE-WEn_iQIkjYaBW0ZqdqcKpfR1Olnr12SqDRO2od0QD8OF1rFQjnCdDq1nt1kNztA/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-13%2000.48.42%20-%20A%20man%20alone%20on%20a%20forest%20path,%20hiking%20on%20a%20dark,%20windy%20day.%20He%20is%20dressed%20in%20appropriate%20hiking%20gear,%20walking%20along%20a%20narrow,%20winding%20path%20surrounded%20b.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />Howdy folks! Let me spin you a tale about an old hike of mine that turned out to be anything but ordinary. It was one of those days in my local nature park where the sky was more gray than blue, and the wind had a bit of a mischievous whistle to it. A perfect setting for a tale, don't you think?<br /><br />So, there I was, taking my regular stroll along the winding paths, with the wind playfully tugging at my jacket. The trees swayed like they were sharing secrets, and the whole forest seemed to be alive with whispers. I've always felt at home among these old trees, but that day, they seemed to hold a different story.<br /><br />Without a moment's notice, the forest's whispers turned into a shout. A sound so loud and fearsome, it could've woken the ancient spirits! It was like a giant's growl mixed with the crack of thunder – a deafening crashing and tearing that echoed across the woods. My heart skipped a beat, I tell you.<br /><br />Turning towards the ruckus, what I saw was a sight to behold. A mighty tree, older and taller than any storybook giant, was surrendering to the wind. It was falling, and oh, it didn’t fall alone. Like a king in its final descent, it took several of its woodland companions along with it. An awe-inspiring, yet heartbreaking ballet of nature.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoqy4HqtfzMvCvfKywO_chAiW4OySprqlhyphenhyphenYwb0766-CEkzTQkxS8t61Z-rFFxN9rVGTSRxpAtOL9lwT0FZRf6EvrY4v1CJrO2qTFNBVlI0XVIzJhcGUhyphenhyphenzhTy8LfySPyxkEdQ4LNAE54RHtrza6du_8zWcFUSxrbXGc_MbjD9Vf-pZnlqCVA0zeUxZUJ/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-13%2000.48.45%20-%20A%20man%20with%20an%20astonished%20look%20witnessing%20a%20huge%20tree%20falling%20over%20in%20a%20dense%20forest.%20The%20scene%20captures%20his%20shock%20and%20awe%20as%20the%20tree%20crashes%20down,%20ta.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoqy4HqtfzMvCvfKywO_chAiW4OySprqlhyphenhyphenYwb0766-CEkzTQkxS8t61Z-rFFxN9rVGTSRxpAtOL9lwT0FZRf6EvrY4v1CJrO2qTFNBVlI0XVIzJhcGUhyphenhyphenzhTy8LfySPyxkEdQ4LNAE54RHtrza6du_8zWcFUSxrbXGc_MbjD9Vf-pZnlqCVA0zeUxZUJ/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-13%2000.48.45%20-%20A%20man%20with%20an%20astonished%20look%20witnessing%20a%20huge%20tree%20falling%20over%20in%20a%20dense%20forest.%20The%20scene%20captures%20his%20shock%20and%20awe%20as%20the%20tree%20crashes%20down,%20ta.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />There I stood, rooted to the spot, my eyes wide as saucers. Shocked, startled, and just a bit scared, if I'm being honest. It's not every day you witness such a display of nature's raw power. And would you believe it, in all that astonishment, I didn’t even think to snap a picture. So, you'll just have to use my new artwork here to help you picture it in your mind.<br /><br />The rest of my walk was a quiet one, filled with thoughts about the age-old dance of nature – creation and destruction, all in one. It’s moments like these that remind us of the grandeur and unpredictability of the great outdoors.<br /><br />So next time you're out in the woods, take a moment to listen to its stories and respect its power. And maybe, just maybe, you'll have a tale of your own to tell. Stay safe and keep exploring, my friends! I'll talk to you later.<p></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-29033391938574742232023-11-06T10:43:00.000-06:002023-11-06T10:43:15.975-06:00From Nature's Whispers to Dreamy Depths: Where to Find My Stories Online<p>Hey there, everybody!</p><div class="flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full gap-3 gizmo:gap-0"><div class="min-h-[20px] flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words overflow-x-auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="07e628f4-7afc-453f-8eb2-9638d5424c99"><div class="markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light"><p>I think it's about time I shared a small update with you about where I've been scatterin' my words across the internet like autumn leaves on a blustery day. I've been divvying up my time between this cozy corner of the web and a few other nooks where I spin my yarns.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkbJxczc8vB6_0WVH_s4TpuF7sRoElme_pharXhk5RT1kJTVHEyJWXLzDgpqf01W6kP4hsAvFYYVb7kzrs6mxM0RTEvC5TYun41Ixf5yKrlSjMcGWdjuJmNhFtfA8Fh7fvmCV77QJspk/s800/Milkweed_Bug_Nymphs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkbJxczc8vB6_0WVH_s4TpuF7sRoElme_pharXhk5RT1kJTVHEyJWXLzDgpqf01W6kP4hsAvFYYVb7kzrs6mxM0RTEvC5TYun41Ixf5yKrlSjMcGWdjuJmNhFtfA8Fh7fvmCV77QJspk/w400-h300/Milkweed_Bug_Nymphs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Now, you might already know about "<a href="http://www.nc-mag.com/" target="_blank">Nature Center Magazine</a>," where I'm one of the folks weaving tales and sharing whispers about the great outdoors. It’s a place where us writers get to natter about the birds, the bees, and the rustle of leaves underfoot. Anything that’s part and parcel of the natural world gets its due over there. And let me tell you, it’s a real treat for those who fancy a walk in the woods or a paddle down a stream, all from the comfort of your favorite chair.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvP7bkzEXxPa1QGBmDxzj5rLR8ZsOwRuhwFUSHLZMQ0HE6_5j9kMe1LJdpzobxWTs7f9LNwWXsmpGSTabLYBIX84DH_JQfv9J1nmJT5DI5cVWDjaGHAPaBbAz6aczvwbAzNgldLEO3jek/s460/Castle_460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="310" data-original-width="460" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvP7bkzEXxPa1QGBmDxzj5rLR8ZsOwRuhwFUSHLZMQ0HE6_5j9kMe1LJdpzobxWTs7f9LNwWXsmpGSTabLYBIX84DH_JQfv9J1nmJT5DI5cVWDjaGHAPaBbAz6aczvwbAzNgldLEO3jek/w400-h270/Castle_460.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Then there's my little shadowy corner of the web dubbed "<a href="http://rattilla.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rat Tales</a>." That’s where the light of my laptop flickers into the wee hours as I craft fictional short stories. They’re often as dark and twisty as a winter gale on the moors, with a fair few sending shivers down your spine. Mind you, it’s not all doom and gloom. Every now and again, I’ll spin a tale that’ll tickle your funny bone, just to prove the sun does shine on a rat's tail sometimes.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3tnCrK-Y5d5_Cs_9GM2LIStKOwUmEJz8t1QqeQW0uwR2n-esRfJNU_lPaDa8Td-bpv8fKWB0XCRnExNLFKTyoCjm9L2gNkEKYIzPcymLNC9_venWJjTBTrl60xY0S-kMW85_HqF61cM/s512/John_Henry_Fuseli_-_The_Nightmare1800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="512" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3tnCrK-Y5d5_Cs_9GM2LIStKOwUmEJz8t1QqeQW0uwR2n-esRfJNU_lPaDa8Td-bpv8fKWB0XCRnExNLFKTyoCjm9L2gNkEKYIzPcymLNC9_venWJjTBTrl60xY0S-kMW85_HqF61cM/w400-h325/John_Henry_Fuseli_-_The_Nightmare1800.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />And, oh, let's not forget about "<a href="https://rat-dreams.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Strange Dreams Of The Rat</a>." If you ever fancied a peek into the oddly creative nooks and crannies of my noggin, that’s the place to be. I share the odd, vivid dreams that frequent my sleep, giving you a front-row seat to the theater of my subconscious. It’s a bit like reading the diary of a man who’s had one too many cups of tea before bed – strange, unpredictable, but always intriguing.<p></p><p>I know, I know, seems like I’m spread as thin as butter on too much bread, but worry not. I’ve still got plenty of butter to go around, and this blog here won’t be left wanting. I’m just adding a bit more flavor to the internet, one word at a time.</p><p>So, keep your eyes peeled, your minds open, and your bookmarks handy. There's plenty to read, and heavens knows, I've got plenty to tell. As always, I’m mighty grateful for the time you spend with my words, and I hope you’ll saunter over to my other haunts for a spell.</p><p>'Til next time, keep your feet warm and your thoughts wild.</p><p>I'll talk to you later,
Ratty</p></div></div></div>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-80173903718713393372023-11-02T08:00:00.005-05:002023-11-02T08:00:00.136-05:00A Squirrelly Surprise in the Heart of the Park<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTz5FV3MK3-4yl9eSMPANMIHvC_PEASxSGeZ50ac2v3QXV8eDeFCh7Uno659fvgHj2khikXun9E_Q7HhW8l_Zu5xTy2RM3mQIymaeJ-AvgZxpbrblksrhL8llPLfgMcURZDUXXBxGN4-T0hvVPznHaRkNqv8AZJvdkFKcePOXysksOZGVhiIalIFY8pyIe/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.42.33%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20large,%20old,%20broken%20tree%20in%20the%20heart%20of%20a%20forest.%20From%20the%20various%20holes%20in%20the%20tree%20trunk,%20hundreds%20of%20squirrels%20are%20rapidly%20running%20out,%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTz5FV3MK3-4yl9eSMPANMIHvC_PEASxSGeZ50ac2v3QXV8eDeFCh7Uno659fvgHj2khikXun9E_Q7HhW8l_Zu5xTy2RM3mQIymaeJ-AvgZxpbrblksrhL8llPLfgMcURZDUXXBxGN4-T0hvVPznHaRkNqv8AZJvdkFKcePOXysksOZGVhiIalIFY8pyIe/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.42.33%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20large,%20old,%20broken%20tree%20in%20the%20heart%20of%20a%20forest.%20From%20the%20various%20holes%20in%20the%20tree%20trunk,%20hundreds%20of%20squirrels%20are%20rapidly%20running%20out,%20.png" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Well, folks, let me tell you about an unexpected encounter I had on one of my old morning strolls through my beloved local nature park. The kind of moment that leaves you scratching your head and thinking, "Did I really just see that?" And it involves one of my favorite subjects. Squirrels!</p><p>The morning was off to a great start. The air was crisp, the sunlight peeked through the trees in that magical way it does, and the world seemed to be humming along just right. I was lost in thought, admiring the beauty around me, when a sudden rustling caught my attention.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZhzCmb_mgaSayGGNA5L476w3Hgb9MDSvUnBwuoOLt1yv16MeoDGfI3YautAS9PNz-rlo2Sg4E7Ad3EvWlctjfGH3R_XyE0Fizy93qIN5KhMTLnQc7I6xw9xU2M3LRtCPvRuqPEY_96N9rp_6xUYXXHpTjds-iv-YO9AefIdEdQVoTp3IVlD__m_SBcgm/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.30.25%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20a%20woodland%20setting%20with%20tall%20trees,%20ferns,%20and%20dappled%20sunlight.%20At%20the%20heart%20of%20the%20scene%20is%20a%20weathered%20tree%20from%20which%20hundreds%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZhzCmb_mgaSayGGNA5L476w3Hgb9MDSvUnBwuoOLt1yv16MeoDGfI3YautAS9PNz-rlo2Sg4E7Ad3EvWlctjfGH3R_XyE0Fizy93qIN5KhMTLnQc7I6xw9xU2M3LRtCPvRuqPEY_96N9rp_6xUYXXHpTjds-iv-YO9AefIdEdQVoTp3IVlD__m_SBcgm/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.30.25%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20a%20woodland%20setting%20with%20tall%20trees,%20ferns,%20and%20dappled%20sunlight.%20At%20the%20heart%20of%20the%20scene%20is%20a%20weathered%20tree%20from%20which%20hundreds%20.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />Right there in front of me stood a grand old tree, one that's probably seen more sunrises than any of us. And from this tree, would you believe it, hundreds of squirrels were making a dash for it! They scattered in every direction, their tails a flurry of motion, and the forest floor seemed alive with their energy. I was so taken aback by the sight, I just stood there staring, forgetting completely about my camera. The moment was so surreal, I forgot to even snap a picture.<p></p><p>As a side note, the picture below is the first view of what I look like without my fake rat suit on that I like to claim that I wear while hiking. Oh, that isn't really me, but it's remarkably close. I wore a brown jacket then, and mine had a hood.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJPTpjrjeXkA3bOjVdQelt2M7lyvIgzguDAqGI0k5e_o7YQMiCa8Sjs0KItuaEr5-M7sKI0APCNApHQWymExvWkZM6PIDe9WKgqyZoFDU6uWgMSl6D-EZocT9zpZULNNhMAPk6qs1R2GUsnmzB-k6L4qNRum918wjS9e2EJXl_O5v4Mlzcr8uXTxPv_ZW/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.44.17%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20a%20northern%20gentleman%20standing%20amidst%20a%20dense%20forest,%20his%20gaze%20fixed%20on%20something%20out%20of%20frame.%20A%20camera%20dangles%20untouched%20from%20his%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJPTpjrjeXkA3bOjVdQelt2M7lyvIgzguDAqGI0k5e_o7YQMiCa8Sjs0KItuaEr5-M7sKI0APCNApHQWymExvWkZM6PIDe9WKgqyZoFDU6uWgMSl6D-EZocT9zpZULNNhMAPk6qs1R2GUsnmzB-k6L4qNRum918wjS9e2EJXl_O5v4Mlzcr8uXTxPv_ZW/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-11-02%2000.44.17%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20a%20northern%20gentleman%20standing%20amidst%20a%20dense%20forest,%20his%20gaze%20fixed%20on%20something%20out%20of%20frame.%20A%20camera%20dangles%20untouched%20from%20his%20.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />This is also one of my old adventures that I've finally been able to bring to life in these new pictures. It really happened, but sadly I don't have the pictures to prove it this time. Even so, I'll remember it to the end of my days. How could I forget something like that?<p></p><p>So, if you're ever wandering through your local park and come across an old tree like that one, keep an eye out. Nature has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. And maybe, just maybe, you'll be luckier than me and capture your wild moment for posterity! </p><p>Thank you to the few of you who remember me. I read all your comments. I'll talk to you later. </p><p> </p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-61120013604596961622023-11-01T08:00:00.008-05:002023-11-01T08:00:00.150-05:00The Legend of Ratty and the Raccoons<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VPasCBc7mO9Nh3w2-xIKFzt92X7D51UpJar6wlPjPahP2OUVNLhxkiPP0ywZfuveZadJRobil4Iy2w7dyqtWLiRZoWoUR46Ft0Vp4qCjsCwOzHmOVuS2hlGHsSMYv-RiDLj8PyS-183O_EVufstrEUllIcK6gFryENrgZge2eAXYLf6ZS9pocgotgJnP/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.27%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20group%20of%20friendly%20raccoons%20in%20a%20forest%20setting.%20The%20raccoons%20are%20approaching%20the%20viewer%20with%20curious%20and%20gentle%20expressions,%20their%20eyes%20bri.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VPasCBc7mO9Nh3w2-xIKFzt92X7D51UpJar6wlPjPahP2OUVNLhxkiPP0ywZfuveZadJRobil4Iy2w7dyqtWLiRZoWoUR46Ft0Vp4qCjsCwOzHmOVuS2hlGHsSMYv-RiDLj8PyS-183O_EVufstrEUllIcK6gFryENrgZge2eAXYLf6ZS9pocgotgJnP/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.27%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20group%20of%20friendly%20raccoons%20in%20a%20forest%20setting.%20The%20raccoons%20are%20approaching%20the%20viewer%20with%20curious%20and%20gentle%20expressions,%20their%20eyes%20bri.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />It was a day like any other as I embarked on a leisurely stroll through our local nature park. The chirping of the birds and the rustling of the leaves provided a calming soundtrack to my thoughts. Just as I was lost in the serene ambiance, a soft patter of footsteps caught my attention.<p></p><p>To my astonishment, a group of friendly raccoons emerged from the underbrush, their curious eyes locked onto mine. It wasn't just one or two, but a whole family! They approached slowly, their bushy tails swaying with each step, displaying a mix of caution and curiosity. I couldn't help but stand still, captivated by the unexpected encounter.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJwNcEAnkKSozKpc2_NvR32mVMfO5yLTeDnKLcFxFpl1-zL9nQ3_mUcHh7wvZ0Ijr6jDbG1NZjv4EVhs4E38MzTXIgnharpOPCS3OiX_luaSGsrAq6qwNgM3x4fLdOiBc0WexN6I1atWL-whieQJVgps3s78EtShdKq4VPbZBFMMBgOv5BKmlU41mwbwU/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.31%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20several%20raccoons%20in%20the%20woods,%20coming%20towards%20the%20viewer.%20The%20raccoons%20have%20a%20friendly%20demeanor,%20with%20their%20little%20paws%20moving%20forw.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJwNcEAnkKSozKpc2_NvR32mVMfO5yLTeDnKLcFxFpl1-zL9nQ3_mUcHh7wvZ0Ijr6jDbG1NZjv4EVhs4E38MzTXIgnharpOPCS3OiX_luaSGsrAq6qwNgM3x4fLdOiBc0WexN6I1atWL-whieQJVgps3s78EtShdKq4VPbZBFMMBgOv5BKmlU41mwbwU/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.31%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20several%20raccoons%20in%20the%20woods,%20coming%20towards%20the%20viewer.%20The%20raccoons%20have%20a%20friendly%20demeanor,%20with%20their%20little%20paws%20moving%20forw.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />But here's where the story takes a twist. While these raccoons seemed friendly, my instinctual reaction was to make a swift exit. And by swift, I mean I channeled my inner Olympic sprinter and bolted for a solid two miles! Who knew the sight of fluffy raccoons could turn a leisurely walk into a full-blown marathon training session? As I caught my breath, I chuckled at my own antics, thinking, "Well, that's one way to get some cardio in!" Lesson learned: always expect the unexpected in nature, and maybe pack some running shoes, just in case.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQU9ugRNajHbhnrihdrXGfSy0Lz4oSupEiktb8KkEhjlGa6FxkGLrKe4p6fuX8V37jd3i2JV0fZ1r0fkIsEfL7yKNsyQ0OitK96lX3hPMM8sJkTR0T7eGNXc7LkSJ3jEQXBFU89AoKID1miA7M9Lgb9Re6IKJ6AW3oO44o-dH9YOhrpNRcdPZ9mj1BVLB/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.57%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20an%20individual%20running%20at%20full%20speed%20in%20the%20woods,%20leaves%20rustling%20underfoot%20and%20trees%20whizzing%20by.%20In%20hot%20pursuit,%20a%20cheerful%20group.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQU9ugRNajHbhnrihdrXGfSy0Lz4oSupEiktb8KkEhjlGa6FxkGLrKe4p6fuX8V37jd3i2JV0fZ1r0fkIsEfL7yKNsyQ0OitK96lX3hPMM8sJkTR0T7eGNXc7LkSJ3jEQXBFU89AoKID1miA7M9Lgb9Re6IKJ6AW3oO44o-dH9YOhrpNRcdPZ9mj1BVLB/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-31%2019.26.57%20-%20Realistic%20image%20of%20an%20individual%20running%20at%20full%20speed%20in%20the%20woods,%20leaves%20rustling%20underfoot%20and%20trees%20whizzing%20by.%20In%20hot%20pursuit,%20a%20cheerful%20group.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>You may think that I made all of this up because these aren't real pictures. But no! This all really happened to me several years ago. And I really do have the pictures to prove it. But you say, "Why don't you share them here?" Well, I did. You can find the pictures of the actual encounter in my blog archives right here on The Everyday Adventurer. I made these new pictures because I wanted to illustrate the actual chase scene. I hope you like it. I'll talk to you later.</p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-89724016298981043612023-10-31T08:00:00.003-05:002023-10-31T08:00:00.137-05:00Ratty's Midnight Musings in the Mystical Forest<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0NNWxGxGZ6dRZM__NLq_dPzoo_Zp5AoH3VswVPCquRntbk9pEesSI1rtisFHNj388HDrrKw-OOqIBtXUk1koXqK9TAfDkUSHOHQfbBqSRNTz2k7yDodt1OPt42_N9fxdSwaH9CtCdUCQSRqjKyJc5WxXhSHmaLNItbH3NLxBNl1k54j7nScI3ludfwTA/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-30%2021.34.26%20-%20Photorealistic%20photo%20of%20a%20moonlit%20forest%20with%20detailed%20textures%20of%20bark,%20leaves,%20and%20ground%20foliage.%20Amidst%20this%20realistic%20backdrop,%20a%20dark%20silhouette.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ0NNWxGxGZ6dRZM__NLq_dPzoo_Zp5AoH3VswVPCquRntbk9pEesSI1rtisFHNj388HDrrKw-OOqIBtXUk1koXqK9TAfDkUSHOHQfbBqSRNTz2k7yDodt1OPt42_N9fxdSwaH9CtCdUCQSRqjKyJc5WxXhSHmaLNItbH3NLxBNl1k54j7nScI3ludfwTA/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-30%2021.34.26%20-%20Photorealistic%20photo%20of%20a%20moonlit%20forest%20with%20detailed%20textures%20of%20bark,%20leaves,%20and%20ground%20foliage.%20Amidst%20this%20realistic%20backdrop,%20a%20dark%20silhouette.png" width="400" /></a></div>By the hootin' of the owl and the rustlin' of the leaves! During one of my moonlit wanderings through the old woods in my local nature park, I think I had the most peculiar encounter. There stood a figure, horns tall as the tales my grandpa used to spin, and eyes that glowed like two fireflies caught in a mason jar. <p></p><p>Now, I'm not one to jump to conclusions, but I couldn't help but wonder if I'd come face-to-face with old Lucifer himself or maybe just Fred from down the road, playin' one of his infamous pranks.</p><p>Whatever it was, it's a gentle reminder that the woods, well, they've got their fair share of stories, mysteries, and a sprinkle of magic. So, next time you find yourself out there under a canopy of stars, keep your eyes peeled; you never know what you might find. </p><p>You might think my posting is a little strange now that I'm back, but this is what I got for ya for now. I think it's fun. Besides, it's too cold to go out to the real forest right now. I'll talk to you later!</p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-52470370711292366202023-10-30T08:00:00.007-05:002023-10-30T08:00:00.158-05:00Chupacabra Or Me?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fFYntqUfEaPZB_DM1Qrgz5mNwakq_Wme6E8dLRN2tfhM47fNbQcoMvdskOer-p84jVw_F3rrWydnQf7pu-dDy1PTG4I7I6MQSQDf9a_9lBGc_IttVOxf8BGMqzlMvS5gDwJZ_uznUPJXJw6IszyIEK2pZDaJf8nmaexsTezHG-QB2QdnCVlssSPpO0xX/s1792/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-21%2021.07.57%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20chupacabra%20standing%20in%20a%20dimly%20lit%20forest,%20its%20eyes%20glowing%20eerily%20in%20the%20darkness.%20It%20has%20spiky%20fur,%20sharp%20claws,%20and%20a%20menacing%20stance,%20r.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1792" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fFYntqUfEaPZB_DM1Qrgz5mNwakq_Wme6E8dLRN2tfhM47fNbQcoMvdskOer-p84jVw_F3rrWydnQf7pu-dDy1PTG4I7I6MQSQDf9a_9lBGc_IttVOxf8BGMqzlMvS5gDwJZ_uznUPJXJw6IszyIEK2pZDaJf8nmaexsTezHG-QB2QdnCVlssSPpO0xX/w400-h229/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-21%2021.07.57%20-%20Photo%20of%20a%20chupacabra%20standing%20in%20a%20dimly%20lit%20forest,%20its%20eyes%20glowing%20eerily%20in%20the%20darkness.%20It%20has%20spiky%20fur,%20sharp%20claws,%20and%20a%20menacing%20stance,%20r.png" width="400" /></a></div><p>Late night in the forest and I bump into this Chupacabra... or was it
just my reflection after binge-watching bad TV shows all night?</p><p>Happy Halloween!<br /></p><p> </p><p></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-34480527998468065602023-10-12T21:52:00.003-05:002023-10-12T21:52:53.545-05:00I Spotted Bigfoot<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZkXXyJ749iZm5vwat77TYj9CSQgERF7hw6KWYYBynUmvJBpFJK8CQ4bmB2whlDYVeSB78H1TpwuIhsoifR3Y_woGZYQzmRk6a29jATbijdN4TN1_DFSEUkIUC5S86m0x_SEBxirn1WRIK_B3oOEGxCNcLSIRIBMja4wAI699daXWD9hedt_33Re7Gf9m/s1024/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-12%2021.48.08%20-%20Photo-quality%20image%20of%20a%20realistic%20Bigfoot%20standing%20prominently%20in%20the%20midst%20of%20a%20grassy%20field,%20with%20sunlight%20casting%20natural%20shadows%20and%20a%20dense%20fore.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ZkXXyJ749iZm5vwat77TYj9CSQgERF7hw6KWYYBynUmvJBpFJK8CQ4bmB2whlDYVeSB78H1TpwuIhsoifR3Y_woGZYQzmRk6a29jATbijdN4TN1_DFSEUkIUC5S86m0x_SEBxirn1WRIK_B3oOEGxCNcLSIRIBMja4wAI699daXWD9hedt_33Re7Gf9m/w400-h400/DALL%C2%B7E%202023-10-12%2021.48.08%20-%20Photo-quality%20image%20of%20a%20realistic%20Bigfoot%20standing%20prominently%20in%20the%20midst%20of%20a%20grassy%20field,%20with%20sunlight%20casting%20natural%20shadows%20and%20a%20dense%20fore.png" width="400" /></a></div><span class="x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h" dir="auto"> I was out taking pictures of my local nature and I got a Bigfoot sighting. They're everywhere nowadays.</span><p></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-80673679335708458932023-01-25T20:13:00.000-06:002023-01-25T20:13:07.560-06:00I'm Still Wandering Around<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncan36-N0-Z6nw7iarjyGDzaIUHgph6B85EsNLmfg8rGURZ2s5B2egGHVr58TxojvO_TMY1Vfgza7_reni1GqwOSjqtKOgFuxcm_KlMlBYBzFMP5X3AiewbAsSGUMmILFiQfZpEHgBXXs9zWRqVv2bRXYLnCNvlfHKeQH1QDFmPgo4_ZtPFNCacTFjg/s1000/Nature%20Trail%2001%201000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1000" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncan36-N0-Z6nw7iarjyGDzaIUHgph6B85EsNLmfg8rGURZ2s5B2egGHVr58TxojvO_TMY1Vfgza7_reni1GqwOSjqtKOgFuxcm_KlMlBYBzFMP5X3AiewbAsSGUMmILFiQfZpEHgBXXs9zWRqVv2bRXYLnCNvlfHKeQH1QDFmPgo4_ZtPFNCacTFjg/s320/Nature%20Trail%2001%201000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Hello, is anybody there? It's been a very long time. You have probably all wandered off looking for some actual activity. But if any of you are still lurking around, I just wanted to let you know that I am well.<p></p><p></p><p>I have been posting new articles on Nature Center Magazine recently, and I have written new stories on my other blog Rat Tales. I may even stop back around here from time to time, but for now it's easier to post on those other sites.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfzu8Lfb78lzFYaEugAa9jkNb_RId_0unEczJ0Sqrfu0knLEuvvqmkD77mh0uUQ3SlT9RNc6GW0HW6tGh30uSguqx4_EIcoDuzSDMeTsSwZINMzUY1zwKmURpVcNmvMoLAGK6CSoPEwNF-yrA-f0PzyxyVVtV-w-zsDoD-yWKZxVQlDoR2V8md8reUQ/s1000/Nature%20Trail%201000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEfzu8Lfb78lzFYaEugAa9jkNb_RId_0unEczJ0Sqrfu0knLEuvvqmkD77mh0uUQ3SlT9RNc6GW0HW6tGh30uSguqx4_EIcoDuzSDMeTsSwZINMzUY1zwKmURpVcNmvMoLAGK6CSoPEwNF-yrA-f0PzyxyVVtV-w-zsDoD-yWKZxVQlDoR2V8md8reUQ/s320/Nature%20Trail%201000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>You can find those other websites above this post on my link bar. I think I have written some good stuff there, but I guess that's for you to decide. It's been good talking to you again after all this time, and I'll hopefully see some of the old familiar names in the comments sections of those other sites. Thanks.<p></p><p>I'll talk to you later.<br /></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-6412625268067571722021-03-25T12:00:00.003-05:002021-03-25T12:00:36.690-05:00Spring Time<p> I'm just checking in. I'll be back when I can.<br /></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-3924994986190613932020-12-12T06:00:00.001-06:002020-12-12T06:00:03.997-06:00Just Checking In<p>Hi everybody. It's been a while. I'm just checking in to let you all know I'm still here. I'll be back all the way when I get something to write about. It's been kind of difficult to find something the last few months. I like writing about nature, but it can get boring around here when I don't go to a nature park. The problem is that they're all closed here in the winter months. I'll think of something as soon as I can. I'll hopefully talk to you again soon.<br /></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-66316949662748541532020-09-02T06:00:00.002-05:002020-09-02T06:00:06.099-05:00Hello! I'm Back! Are You?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUtHjAjRHKQV6YqpR5Y_C-xtmDFfd3M-Q9hnPL3l2ZwLo5TckPVpHplxeWck7s8RWDNWwAI7ARgdY0K-FeSnaKNq_GquYQpiDZ6cHbK0hCoKfMp9BoYQrMYhG4aHP2ivMsbyPJFu1ggV8/s800/20200806_145346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUtHjAjRHKQV6YqpR5Y_C-xtmDFfd3M-Q9hnPL3l2ZwLo5TckPVpHplxeWck7s8RWDNWwAI7ARgdY0K-FeSnaKNq_GquYQpiDZ6cHbK0hCoKfMp9BoYQrMYhG4aHP2ivMsbyPJFu1ggV8/s640/20200806_145346.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I took these pictures 3 weeks ago. I was going to post them shortly after then but I got self conscious about it because I had been gone so long. I hope you enjoy these and my story if you're still here with me.<p></p><p></p><p>Before I start I noticed that Blogger has made a few changes. I like what I see in the first few minutes. I hope it is still a good experience as I go on with my edits to this post. Anyway, let's get on with it.<br /></p><p></p><p>Any of you longer time readers may remember that my dog hates to ride in a vehicle. Well, she made a conscious effort shortly before this trip to ride just so she could stay with me. She actually asked to go in her doggy way.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EJC-hRbXq5S28sbJyc8PdXGBGo4ZP_IvyqIK-drqwT28PnfkhvM8zSG15zY_bX4UL_hUHT-o-xNLWo9E_BA7QwLCK2MYQ1PInuAM5sXC6cjPYgcAGnXzV1hrOtYT5sSvA1UQAHgrXfB-/s800/20200806_144406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EJC-hRbXq5S28sbJyc8PdXGBGo4ZP_IvyqIK-drqwT28PnfkhvM8zSG15zY_bX4UL_hUHT-o-xNLWo9E_BA7QwLCK2MYQ1PInuAM5sXC6cjPYgcAGnXzV1hrOtYT5sSvA1UQAHgrXfB-/s640/20200806_144406.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The poor dog endured a long trip to one nature park near the river. I took lots of pictures there but for some reason they all ended up blurry and messed up. I didn't realize it until I got home and looked at everything. <p></p><p>But after she took the trip to the first park so bravely I decided to continue on to this bigger nature park. It was an even farther distance away from home. She did great getting to this one. She was learning fast.</p><p>We got out of the truck and explored the edge of the river here for quite awhile. This is where I got all of the pictures. This is a beautiful place that only gets better every year I come here. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYO3Sfz8B5def86aUg0NlW2dAYqGzxBrCBrDhI_CwHrG4MUXQ1O2lvrim5I1k8cvqVpM_RoJNaBGhyphenhyphenlK5_vmfGdzzIXyGiRpdInyrpgGnZ4WglITJcRew0gNygeHpBCwCObyGje7W0fIq/s800/20200806_144349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYO3Sfz8B5def86aUg0NlW2dAYqGzxBrCBrDhI_CwHrG4MUXQ1O2lvrim5I1k8cvqVpM_RoJNaBGhyphenhyphenlK5_vmfGdzzIXyGiRpdInyrpgGnZ4WglITJcRew0gNygeHpBCwCObyGje7W0fIq/s640/20200806_144349.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>The dog, Delilah is always amazed by what she sees whenever she is brave enough to go. She has only ever been to a nature park a few times now. I'm going to change that now that she is getting better about riding. <p></p><p>Honestly, that is part of what has been holding me back about blogging. I just felt bad about going to a nature park without my dog. I'm also still experimenting with how far I can walk now too. But the dog was the main thing. I think she'll be fine now.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0NrfsKG_g_69Jty6Cz0Z_emhQ66V8SaeWPzrtB-VZRiyiIPzKnL-k0H3-YrfEo8FTZ88X2_7GoT_jHghbdZ7irQPee3Rlt86jl84HzwdJpnIldcvpMihmvX9eI4SPyk921imrKlZmsOp/s800/20200806_144256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0NrfsKG_g_69Jty6Cz0Z_emhQ66V8SaeWPzrtB-VZRiyiIPzKnL-k0H3-YrfEo8FTZ88X2_7GoT_jHghbdZ7irQPee3Rlt86jl84HzwdJpnIldcvpMihmvX9eI4SPyk921imrKlZmsOp/s640/20200806_144256.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>After I was done wandering around near the river with my excited dog, I decided to wrap things up. Before I left though, I went to look at the forested area behind the restrooms. I never went over there the many times I've been here. I was amazed by what I found.<br /><p></p><p>A nature trail! There it was calling to me to explore it just like I used to do with other trails. The only problem was that I was too tired by then to answer that call. I decided that it was going to have to wait for another time.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWTmoogrV91vB4p8F3hqqWcE16oX3dQENV9yHdjNK51qHe2RxyLJZvRDsJUfFqpogu3rWgokXUpCwnhJfxAs19h6XePeT_TNRTP3AWTgjxOg34tjlYByE6ElcpRPfvsqJdGGm-Tg6Jk0F/s800/20200806_144246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWTmoogrV91vB4p8F3hqqWcE16oX3dQENV9yHdjNK51qHe2RxyLJZvRDsJUfFqpogu3rWgokXUpCwnhJfxAs19h6XePeT_TNRTP3AWTgjxOg34tjlYByE6ElcpRPfvsqJdGGm-Tg6Jk0F/s640/20200806_144246.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I think that other time is coming in a couple days from now. I'm all set to take my dog on a walk through a good old forested nature trail just like I used to do in years past. I'm going to be in heaven! I hope the dog feels the same about the trails as I do. I think she will.<p></p><p>And to anyone who is still here with me, thanks for reading my blog. I missed you. I'll talk to you later.<br /></p>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-51305133664325360912020-06-17T06:00:00.000-05:002020-06-17T06:00:04.160-05:00Something To Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYOHrj-qluPbK4Iv0VvzOI7xfgDjvOKuZCZiIL6JzWYZENfqQZyzP0ejGPAal7SSJltD0KXiWBQ9_OdcoArfIuRnF5Y6AviEz1JWPpbYWwmsY55qLHJ8hxqddYA1tf-cmTLzoUrC9SmPT/s1600/20191125_151853+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYOHrj-qluPbK4Iv0VvzOI7xfgDjvOKuZCZiIL6JzWYZENfqQZyzP0ejGPAal7SSJltD0KXiWBQ9_OdcoArfIuRnF5Y6AviEz1JWPpbYWwmsY55qLHJ8hxqddYA1tf-cmTLzoUrC9SmPT/s400/20191125_151853+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I just wanted to post something, anything. I don't have much to say this time. I just wanted to let everyone know I'm here. I'll leave it at that this time, and I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-65647001749755291262020-05-09T10:15:00.000-05:002020-05-09T10:15:15.452-05:00Delilah The Mischief Maker<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrnw8NytqOMZF6jDtfc5K4YIljRBcZqpGcD6uiMNZSJGs8sItmgE95kXvRs9-TTF8R4KGJGKjljZU4XUBAJ-idvl9c1X4xUBAHtFA7CugSpsaJCcBAf4RylyHsxhyphenhyphenBfgTkS1wJS6V6oYl/s1600/20191119_120618+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="596" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHrnw8NytqOMZF6jDtfc5K4YIljRBcZqpGcD6uiMNZSJGs8sItmgE95kXvRs9-TTF8R4KGJGKjljZU4XUBAJ-idvl9c1X4xUBAHtFA7CugSpsaJCcBAf4RylyHsxhyphenhyphenBfgTkS1wJS6V6oYl/s400/20191119_120618+%25282%2529.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
Here is something my dog Delilah likes to do. Let me tell you a story about my annoying dog.<br />
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Because of the current health situation, my mom has come to stay at my house with me. It's because I live out in the country away from most civilization and most people. It makes things a lot easier for her to stay safe and healthy.<br />
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I have everything set up nice for her. I bought her all the stuff for her new bedroom. She has a new bed and a big television in there so she can watch TV whenever she wants. I also made sure she has her own good chair in the living room. She also has a laptop she keeps on a little stand right by her chair. I got her hooked on the internet many years ago.<br />
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Because she doesn't see as well as she used to, my mom has a little light that plugs into the USB port on her laptop. This way she can see her keyboard when the light is a little dim. The light is an LED light that can be turned on or off by just touching it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDE7XO7vaY1Eqs5klE7RJUNXwN0FH8SKVnBV38nFeSMUXVTO01IF0YJ_zAVxTj5ZsCrCn6cuMv4sKM934-8x-V-b6Qj28sQcgwCY41_DafecgB5v-3Y5zHyLTMbvBhXr_q6f4oBk2X8eU3/s1600/20191119_143133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDE7XO7vaY1Eqs5klE7RJUNXwN0FH8SKVnBV38nFeSMUXVTO01IF0YJ_zAVxTj5ZsCrCn6cuMv4sKM934-8x-V-b6Qj28sQcgwCY41_DafecgB5v-3Y5zHyLTMbvBhXr_q6f4oBk2X8eU3/s400/20191119_143133.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Delilah likes my mom a lot but she also likes to irritate her as much as she can. I constantly have to yell at the dog to stay away from my mom for the many things she does to bother her. Some of it is accidental, but some of it is clearly on purpose. Delilah loves mischief.<br />
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My mom isn't afraid of dogs or anything like that. On the contrary, most dogs are a little intimidated by her and always try to be friends with her. Delilah is no exception. My mom is mostly indifferent to dogs, but she says she thinks Delilah is kind of amusing.<br />
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Anyway, one of the things Delilah likes to do to irritate my mom involves that computer light. Delilah is very intelligent and she observes things whenever she can. She watched my mom and figured out that the computer light can be turned on by touching it.<br />
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So Delilah waits until my mom isn't looking and will sneak over and turn that light on whenever she thinks nobody will notice. She is definitely sneaking. I've seen her to it many times now. She seems to think it's funny because of the reaction she gets. My mom usually thinks she turned it on herself by accident.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7mjR2LuykiCj0U_rEWzWa4PmcXewnFtTQ6yQN1XAW828u-W1Maly8D8ofSM7kr14AMAZqldk4XEA6r31x6vaRPGdymnymycA3Lc_o5JSIjRNdi7ojzMdv2UMGfAjxur2iSVpRaQHxsGu/s1600/20191211_100959+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="558" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU7mjR2LuykiCj0U_rEWzWa4PmcXewnFtTQ6yQN1XAW828u-W1Maly8D8ofSM7kr14AMAZqldk4XEA6r31x6vaRPGdymnymycA3Lc_o5JSIjRNdi7ojzMdv2UMGfAjxur2iSVpRaQHxsGu/s400/20191211_100959+%25282%2529.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
I also can't keep Delilah in her kennel cage by herself anymore either. She figured out how to open the latch and get out. I thought at first she just got lucky but I've seen her open it several times now. It's okay though because I don't really need to keep her in there anymore anyway. She's usually pretty safe roaming the house by herself if nobody is home.<br />
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And that's all I really have this time. There are plenty of Delilah stories because she's a weird dog. But I don't think you don't want to read them all. I mostly just needed to write another post to let you know I'm still here. I keep hoping to get something from a nature park soon. One of these next few times I'll do it.<br />
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I'll talk to you later. Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-40565411784449479442020-04-04T10:10:00.000-05:002020-04-04T10:10:08.036-05:00Delilah And Her New Clothes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikteRIlKdOftpe69v0pM-GIwu238GShdY9HeUX_4NdgBEVWa3KPzYGzqd8uROomYasuC7HfMGwG29Bj5vBgwZHaEuZahBmzF5ujyYfFayfjti8kcQciTE6tActe4AYnXswLgX7pcdS0UUP/s1600/20200313_184503+%2528Resize%2529_result.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikteRIlKdOftpe69v0pM-GIwu238GShdY9HeUX_4NdgBEVWa3KPzYGzqd8uROomYasuC7HfMGwG29Bj5vBgwZHaEuZahBmzF5ujyYfFayfjti8kcQciTE6tActe4AYnXswLgX7pcdS0UUP/s400/20200313_184503+%2528Resize%2529_result.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
It's pretty difficult to get anything new to post right now, but I have something for you anyway. This is Delilah in her Thundershirt. This thing is to calm a dog that has anxiety problems. It does it by squeezing them a little. Delilah is a pretty happy dog normally, but she still has a terrible time while riding in the truck. That's why I got this Thundershirt for her.<br />
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I wish I could say that it works great but I haven't had a chance to try it out yet. She doesn't really like wearing it but she also doesn't mind it much. I think of she wore it enough she'd come to think of it like she does her collar. She gets very upset if I remove her collar. All of my dogs have been like that. I think the dogs think of their collar as part of them or that it is their clothes.<br />
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I would have gotten Delilah another color of this Thundershirt, probably blue, but I forgot to choose the color. I usually assign my dog a color when I first get them. Delilah has a blue collar. Isabella had black. And Tilly before them had pink.<br />
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Anyway, I live in the country, so I can still go out to places like a hiking park if I want to. So maybe I'll try to get some halfway decent pictures from a place like that soon if it doesn't flood too much here. I really need to post a little more often if I can. I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-25182910555446004172020-02-27T06:00:00.000-06:002020-02-27T06:00:04.170-06:00Robot Woes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobZweMVag4RMLadCNO4JeHlrWNSFJb4IrEMZZGg6jGEl2Ct5LtVNDaB-W1JN3Kt7LNPZuC_ol4cagm009QTS_fVW0gg86hNLBiq0WtvoSwDVzIkv8-as638Af33eNtUsXB2pX7Cmap1kX/s1600/20190925_181502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobZweMVag4RMLadCNO4JeHlrWNSFJb4IrEMZZGg6jGEl2Ct5LtVNDaB-W1JN3Kt7LNPZuC_ol4cagm009QTS_fVW0gg86hNLBiq0WtvoSwDVzIkv8-as638Af33eNtUsXB2pX7Cmap1kX/s400/20190925_181502.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
While I'm still very distracted from my nature adventures I want to tell you the story of my vacuum cleaner misadventure. Let's get into it.<br />
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It started out wonderful. I bought a brand new robot vacuum cleaner to replace my old Roomba that wasn't quite as spry as it used to be. I told you about it <a href="https://everyday-adventurer.blogspot.com/2019/09/robot-vacuum-cleaners.html" target="_blank">here in this post</a>. It was the Neato Botvac D4. And it ran wonderfully for the first 3 months.<br />
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Then one day it began acting kind of confused and was moving a little slowly. The main problem though was that it kept getting stuck and giving an error whenever it tried to return to its recharging base.<br />
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I have to admit that I panicked a little. I thought I had spent $500 on a lemon and it would never work right again. I needed that robot vacuum cleaner! I'm much too busy to vacuum the house every day myself. And it had been doing such a great job of cleaning up the dog hair! But not now. A house full of dog hair is a horrible thing.<br />
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After I calmed down a bit I followed the links to the chat with Neato Support. The guy was actually very helpful. He asked me to try a few tests, which I did, to see if the machine could fix itself. Which it didn't. At the end of the chat, there didn't seem to be a solution. I was not very happy.<br />
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But then the support person followed up on my case through email the next day. He asked me if the machine had improved. I said no. And after a little back and forth he set me up with the information to send my vacuum cleaner in for the company to look at.<br />
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I took my machine to FedEx where I paid them about $20 to package the machine securely for me. I could have done it myself for free, but I figured they'd do it better. And they knew exactly what to do. And so my precious investment was sent off for servicing.<br />
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After about a week I got a large package delivered to me by FedEx. It was my vacuum cleaner! The great thing was that I didn't have to pay a dime for them to fix it for me. I wasn't sure about that part when I began the process.<br />
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I got it all unboxed and took the time to charge it back up, and then I started it up on a good test run to make sure it was okay. It wasn't! The robot acted confused and then errored when it tried to return to the charging base. After a closer examination I saw that they had replaced the filter, and maybe the brush, but they had done absolutely no repair on it. Again, I was not happy. It was time to try the chat support again.<br />
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After quite a lot of time and frustration talking to this new person who seemed kind of skeptical about my situation, I finally got it through to them that this machine really needed to be repaired. I learned during the chat that they could monitor the machine over the internet. I'm not so sure how much I like that. But it was time to send the machine back to the company for them to service it one more time. Would they actually fix it this time?<br />
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This time I just packed it back into the box it came in. No extra charges for me. I made the trip back to Sioux City to the FedEx Store and sent it off again. Again, they knew exactly what to do. The woman there even knew right away when I walked in that I had a robot vacuum in the box. Impressive.<br />
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And so, after another week I got my machine back again. I wasn't exactly encouraged about a successful repair this time because of my previous experience, but I was still hopeful. So, what do you think happened when I was able to do the test run?<br />
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Success! It was working! My vacuum cleaner was repaired this time, and it was back to its old great working self. My dog still thinks this second robot is a jerk, but it works just fine now. My dog doesn't like this one because she was kinda best pals with the old one. She loved playing with it while it cleaned. She thinks this one stole its job.<br />
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In the end, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">(and after this long post)</span>, I'm happy with the support I received from the company. It took a little too long to figure out that the machine should get fixed, but they did fix it and they did it for free. Free is all I could ask for.<br />
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And that's my story. Maybe you don't want to read another one like this, but I think my next post is going to be about the new computer I just built. I'm going to whine a bit about that one too. I hope you can stand it.<br />
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I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-37782073269972783992020-02-05T06:00:00.000-06:002020-02-05T06:00:04.035-06:00My Internet Is Finally Back<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z2Yfjpchg9WRVOlhBB5tq50wT9jHCHiRtFsmlExP8vjVQCEK4DY6IHr5FpZ__5ZlWDR2DfcRkwbAP-ZLtKma-sMC9S1H6fgyuPnBDBd0BKcx-Vx2US2eS6da4ChDiVTgrweXrKuRihYS/s1600/20191216_122104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z2Yfjpchg9WRVOlhBB5tq50wT9jHCHiRtFsmlExP8vjVQCEK4DY6IHr5FpZ__5ZlWDR2DfcRkwbAP-ZLtKma-sMC9S1H6fgyuPnBDBd0BKcx-Vx2US2eS6da4ChDiVTgrweXrKuRihYS/s400/20191216_122104.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
It seems like circumstances and just my own laziness are conspiring to drive away any blog friends I have left here. The last update I gave was about my lack of internet. I'm glad to say that those problems have been finally solved. It actually only took about a week to get things settled. I really need to tell you about it. This might be a slightly longer story than usual. I hope you can last till the end.<br />
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On a Monday I had two appointments with my internet company to see about getting my internet sorted out.<br />
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The first appointment was to survey my situation to see about getting high-speed fiber optic cable put in here in the future. The government gave my service provider a lot of money to provide this new stuff for all of us in the surrounding rural area.<br />
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They only came out to assess the situation this time. They'll lay down the cable sometime around the middle of summer. Then hopefully by the end of the year, they'll connect everything up to the houses.<br />
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My internet speed at the time they came out was about 3mbps. Once they're finished they tell me my new speed will be 1gbps. That's well over 300 times as fast as my original speed. I'll finally be as fast as the modern civilized world when they're done.<br />
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But that's almost a year away from now. What happened in the second appointment?<br />
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The second appointment was so they could come out and replace my old non-working internet equipment with some new stuff that should fix me up just fine. They also said the new stuff will work with the fiber optic internet when it comes.<br />
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When the guys got there they came in and looked at the old box. The guy immediately told me that everyone who still had that old box was complaining. He also said that box was miserably outdated and they couldn't even update it anymore.<br />
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I wondered why they didn't send me a letter or something to upgrade me in the first place. They should have come out a long time ago. I should not have had to call them to tell them there was a problem. Even so, they were here now to fix it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VLUgMSEVmFYxPaUqRKq_Hp46CUKLZUnry-tQovAwnPrTYHh6PgmdxMf2W1ODznttaQgiSr_e49lkueS6jn1FZFcvrRsxpyD2iMp8MaowFP10dk2damyyJZlpuBo6X9vrewgvMMy1hIo8/s1600/20191216_122321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9VLUgMSEVmFYxPaUqRKq_Hp46CUKLZUnry-tQovAwnPrTYHh6PgmdxMf2W1ODznttaQgiSr_e49lkueS6jn1FZFcvrRsxpyD2iMp8MaowFP10dk2damyyJZlpuBo6X9vrewgvMMy1hIo8/s400/20191216_122321.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
They did a quick unplug of the old box and plugged in the two new boxes that I have now. The guy said everything should be fine now.<br />
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As we were talking, the guy incidentally asked me about what I was currently paying for their service. I told him and, even though he tried to hide it, he looked a little shocked. He then assumed I was also getting phone service too. I told him no, that I was only getting internet. I was not happy. I now knew I was paying way too much and had been for years.<br />
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He then asked me what my internet speed was. I told him the 3mbps. He then informed me that I could get 10mbps right now. All I had to do is call and they would just flip a switch. Well, why didn't they just do it automatically? He said it would cost a little extra. That's fine. I'd just like to get out of the stone age!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66umRtPNQ4Ai6dq8NzRShKSKJ-oJnUaeQKheqGAs1my0faQe3A0L2M7kTsj8OYWWN2oH23dPp8OA8I2d58XXtqb15LqTJX4xqLJy7aW-tNlkSspfENTSDFvHON0D4JHpAxL-O6On05hwc/s1600/20191216_122338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66umRtPNQ4Ai6dq8NzRShKSKJ-oJnUaeQKheqGAs1my0faQe3A0L2M7kTsj8OYWWN2oH23dPp8OA8I2d58XXtqb15LqTJX4xqLJy7aW-tNlkSspfENTSDFvHON0D4JHpAxL-O6On05hwc/s400/20191216_122338.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Let me explain something. Before I moved here from Michigan, internet wasn't as fast as it is today anywhere. 10mbps is probably the fastest internet I've ever had. I was now as happy as can be and I forgot about my problem with them not taking care of this easier for me.<br />
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Then when I called them to get that switch flipped, they told me the cost would be different. Can you guess what the difference might be?<br />
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Not only did they upgrade my current internet speed, but I now pay only half the price I was paying before. I'm finally feeling good about my internet here. I can even watch HD video content now. And the only thing holding me back from posting new stuff here is my own laziness and the weather you see in today's pictures. I'll talk to you later, hopefully sooner.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-83377630124769929782020-01-08T15:00:00.001-06:002020-01-08T15:00:36.473-06:00Internet Problems And The SolutionNo pictures this time because I'm having terrible internet issues. My internet connection is so unstable that it's almost unusable. I called the service provider and they told me my whole setup is old and needs to be updated. They've been getting reports like mine from most of the users of my particular equipment.<br />
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I had to order a new router on Amazon to replace my old equipment. It will get here in a few days. Once it gets here I can then set up an appointment for the service provider to hook that and the other new stuff up. Hopefully, then I can get everything back up and running normally.<br />
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I also received some very good news from my service provider. My current internet is only DHL, which is very slow. They informed me that we here in this part of rural Iowa are getting switched to fiber-optic broadband high-speed internet in this area within the year.<br />
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So I set up another appointment for them to come out and survey my property to get the fiber-optic stuff ready for me. I'll finally be back to the internet speeds of the rest of the civilized world. I can't wait!<br />
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That's about it for this post. I just needed to share this news while I could get on here. I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-14441628619728286372019-12-24T15:45:00.000-06:002019-12-24T15:45:36.134-06:00Merry Christmas Everyone! 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_guAtcdO78RA/SzMND2TzZxI/AAAAAAAADuk/M9WPIYttHH0/s1600-h/Santa+and+His+Crew.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_guAtcdO78RA/SzMND2TzZxI/AAAAAAAADuk/M9WPIYttHH0/s400/Santa+and+His+Crew.jpg" /></a></div>
Here's a special Christmas present from me to you. This picture is for all of you who have decided to visit me on Christmas Eve, even though I haven't posted nearly enough this year. I share this same picture for most years, but the post is a little new. I encountered this scene several years ago. I really did take the picture. It was at a place called Carpenter Lake.<br />
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Click on the picture to make it bigger for the best effect. Take a close look at Santa's <i>reindeer</i>. There's something very strange about them. Santa is a little different than normal too, but I'll never tell how.<br />
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Maybe Santa will think of using turkeys or bison one of these upcoming years, but he still likes the squirrels. I wonder what happened to those reindeer. Maybe these guys are for alternate days. You will probably have trouble seeing it, but the lead squirrel has a red nose.<br />
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I keep promising to post more often, and one of these days I'll surprise you. I'm still getting my hiking skills back so maybe 2020 will be my year. Until then it's time to take a little break and to say... <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas, everyone!</span>Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-29298857750061578492019-11-20T06:00:00.000-06:002019-11-20T06:00:13.097-06:00Delilah's Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is Delilah's birthday. She is 1 year old today. She was born on November 20, 2018. I keep telling her she's not going to be a puppy anymore, but I think she'll be a puppy forever. She still acts like a puppy.<br />
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Here she is a few weeks after I got her. Her ears were beginning to pop up. She only had one ear up for a few more weeks.<br />
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This last one is the first known picture of Delilah. I didn't take this one. This was the picture that made me go and get her. I had a choice between her and one of her sisters. I chose her all the way. She was the little lunatic that didn't conform to the standards of the rest of the dogs at the shelter. The other dogs constantly scolded her for her unruly behavior. She's still the same.<br />
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Delilah's life started out very difficult. She almost froze to death when she was only days old. Some in her litter didn't make it. I know of only her and two sisters that were lucky.<br />
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The rest of Delilah's life has been the easiest most pleasant life a dog could ever have. The only thing that needs to change is that I need to teach her that she doesn't run the house, I do.<br />
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So that summarizes Delilah. For her birthday, I bought her a huge box of dog biscuits, several rope toys, and a new kennel for riding in the truck. She loves them all already.<br />
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And with that, I'll talk to you later.<br />
<br />Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-37123433509882370952019-11-08T06:00:00.000-06:002019-11-19T09:07:26.626-06:00Here We Go! We're Off!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNb2UBT4WSv-I7G6CDLC_NMULdimFirI0zKqerlMISSNgQHHl_uyoFEoF-gi7Yx6fjh8t6gY8nyH6ZdEwdLxJ_YK9VovDhjaP-UZTJf2KCpch2AB21a5uNl9vNteWlDslZGFE-_kGuSzx/s1600/20191106_153153.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNb2UBT4WSv-I7G6CDLC_NMULdimFirI0zKqerlMISSNgQHHl_uyoFEoF-gi7Yx6fjh8t6gY8nyH6ZdEwdLxJ_YK9VovDhjaP-UZTJf2KCpch2AB21a5uNl9vNteWlDslZGFE-_kGuSzx/s400/20191106_153153.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Okay, this is going to be my first try at posting a record of my travels. I almost forgot to do it this time. I put the camera on the dashboard and took pictures of scenes I thought looked good or were interesting in some way. I moved the camera sometimes to get some pictures from the side. They weren't usually very good.<br />
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I have way too many pictures this first time, so I'll try to keep my comments shorter than usual. Sometimes, as usual, my comments will be unrelated to the pictures. Let's go.<br />
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I had just finished up at the doctor so that was still on my mind. These first two pictures were where I remembered to turn on the camera. These are just outside the city.<br />
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This picture above is a terrible shot of my old family farm. My family doesn't live here anymore, but the surrounding countryside is officially named after us because we were here for so long. There are stories written about us in the local history books.<br />
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I tried to get a picture of the hills here in this one. I'll try to give a better look in future pictures. This road travels through the heart of the Loess Hills.<br />
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This one shows how driving along here is up and down the hills. These hills are as big as mountains but they are classified as hills because they are made of dirt and not rock.<br />
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To the left in the picture above is a snow-covered field. I don't know how it looks in the pictures, but the snow made it look like the surface of the water. This was actually our first snow of the year.<br />
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On the left of this road is all flat land up to the river. On the right are the steep hills. Outside of the Loess Hills, the land is mostly flat. This area floods very easily when they let too much water out of the dam north of us. This road is routinely underwater.<br />
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And now for the last one. This area of the road goes right up against the hills. The river is just to the left. It's kind of a tight squeeze, but this area doesn't flood as much. I left the truck in the picture because that's what I mostly see along this road.<br />
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You'll see some strange anomalies in these pictures. They are just reflections on the windshield. <br />
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I hope this first post was at least a little bit interesting. I'll try to show some animals and other more specific things in future posts. I'll fine-tune things as I go along. I'll have lots of posts of this nature. I'll mix them with some hiking posts when I get the time, and Delilah will be back too. I hope you liked this one. I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-45881461280419590852019-11-02T06:00:00.000-05:002019-11-02T06:00:04.381-05:00Delilah The Thief<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SPHTEkntEDjiCpTfqJmK5QWOI3Opy4nszyrAQCxU7vF_iQV4SbB9PHn30NjggKubA_nrwl_6POrrEEtFRQp1_zHS49ZJak-yth3Fl4pduu1W8CS8f3ZNB60yF1x_UpAYQS8CgQkdMDa3/s1600/20191005_195114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SPHTEkntEDjiCpTfqJmK5QWOI3Opy4nszyrAQCxU7vF_iQV4SbB9PHn30NjggKubA_nrwl_6POrrEEtFRQp1_zHS49ZJak-yth3Fl4pduu1W8CS8f3ZNB60yF1x_UpAYQS8CgQkdMDa3/s400/20191005_195114.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Delilah has turned to thievery to satisfy her need for new toys. I always suspected she was an evil twin or something like that. I would have been sure of that theory if any of the rest of her sisters looked like her. The rest were black. So, she's the evil oddball of the bunch.<br />
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Let me tell you of her thievery as one example of her evil ways. I'll start from the beginning, naturally.<br />
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I've been letting Delilah go outside with me without her leash or without her being on a chain. I do this because she obsessively follows me wherever I go. She almost never leaves my side so I felt as if I could trust her outside. I'm mostly correct.<br />
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Whenever I need to go out to my garage I've been taking her out there with me. It's a fun little adventure for her. The last few times while I was distracted she decided to explore the garage just a bit. I didn't pay much attention.<br />
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By the time I got out the door with Delilah hot on my heels, I noticed she had something in her mouth. It was one of Isabella's old toys. The little thief found out where I was keeping them, and she snatched one for herself. Honestly, they kind of belong to Delilah now, but she knew they weren't exactly hers quite yet.<br />
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When I got to the front door of the house Delilah held back. I motioned for her to come with me but she backed away. I then stepped toward her to let her know she had to come, but she dodged me again. It was then that I realized she was protecting that toy from me. She knew she technically stole it and she thought I would take it from her.<br />
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After a few seconds, I decided to just go into the house hoping she would follow. She did follow me, but she left the toy outside. She did not want me to take it away. So then I went back outside and retrieved the toy and gave it to her inside. She was then happy and it was all over.<br />
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Delilah now sneaks a toy whenever I go out there. I really don't mind, but I don't want her to think she can disobey me. Still, I let her get away with this one. An evil twin has to get away with being at least a little evil sometimes.<br />
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Let's change the subject while I wrap this up. I think I may have come up with a good idea so I can post a little more often now. We'll see. I haven't had much time to try hiking again yet, but I drive around the countryside quite a bit. I see lots of cool naturey stuff but I can't get pictures while I'm in the truck. Until now.<br />
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I'm going to rig my camera up to my dashboard and get a remote shutter button to take the pictures. I can just press the button whenever I see something interesting. Hopefully, this works out very well. We'll see how it works. I'm hoping it can help me post much more often. My next post should be of this type. Until then, I'll talk to you later.<br />
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<br />Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-22232738933203495132019-09-27T06:00:00.000-05:002019-09-27T06:00:01.291-05:00Robot Vacuum Cleaners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This one's going to be a little different. I haven't tried to go on a hiking trip yet, mostly because it's been raining and I also want to watch the last few games of baseball season. But this post is because I have many interests. One of those interests is technology. So today I'm talking about robot vacuum cleaners.<br />
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I've had an iRobot Roomba for years. It is from the 600 series of cleaners. I have loved this thing because it keeps my floors much cleaner than I'm willing to do myself. All I have to do is empty it sometime after most cleanings. And my house looks okay.<br />
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But there have been a few problems with it. The first one is that it gets stuck in places kind of easily. I end up having to go move it and restart it quite frequently. The second problem is that I had to stick it's recharging base to the wall because it kept knocking it out of position. So it had trouble recharging after it was done.<br />
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And it still has trouble finding the base properly. It usually takes several times for it to dock itself. It also doesn't have very strong suction in the vacuum, and since I got my new dog it has been having trouble with the dog hair. And this Roomba is getting kind of old, so I finally decided to replace it.<br />
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My new robot vacuum cleaner is the Neato Botvac D4. It's a mid-range cleaner as far as cost, but it has more features than most Roombas. It cost me $400. The Roomba cost more when I got it years ago. This one maps out my house instead of vacuuming randomly, so it is much more efficient than the old one, and it is finished much quicker.<br />
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This one also doesn't get stuck anywhere in my house and it has much greater suction in the vacuum. The pet hair is gone from the carpet. It also gets back to the base much better and doesn't ever ram into it and move it.<br />
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The disadvantages of the new one are first that you have to connect it to the internet. It's a slightly rough setup at first because of that. It also needs a bigger area where the dock can be placed. But other than those problems it has been wonderful.<br />
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The internet connection is actually an advantage because I can control the robot with my phone and I can do voice commands with Amazon Alexa. Overall, this newer technology robot is worth the price for me. I really like this new robot.<br />
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Oh, one more thing. Does Delilah like it? The answer is unfortunately no. She liked the old Roomba. It had been there with her for most of her life. She thought it was a playmate of hers. She considers the new Botvac to be a hated enemy, even though it's quieter than the old robot. Hopefully, she'll get used to it.<br />
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That's about all. I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-33955066140911641552019-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:002019-09-21T06:00:05.317-05:00Surprise! I'm Still Here, And So Is Delilah!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I bet you thought I was gone. I will tell you now that I'll never leave. I have watched so many of my blogging friends disappear, some very good ones this year, but I'll be here even after everyone else is gone. It's because I'm here for a better reason than most people. It's because I truly like why I'm here. No more explanation can be given in one post. Read all of them.<br />
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So let's get to my post today. What's been going on and why am I posting today? And why not before? I'm mostly posting today to check in because I haven't done it in so long. But I also have a tiny bit of an update for you.<br />
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I told you a while back at the beginning of the summer that we were going to have a lot of flooding around here. It wasn't supposed to let up for the whole summer, which would keep me from posting much of anything because there would just be nowhere for me to go.<br />
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That is exactly what has happened. The river is overflowing right now and might even get worse in the immediate future. All of my good nature parks are along the river. Not a recipe for fun. This will have to end someday though.<br />
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Another thing that has stopped me from posting is something I've been sort of hiding from you.<br />
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I couldn't walk.<br />
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I was in a car accident several years ago and my back was injured. It happened at the height of my blogging about my long nature hikes. Everything was abruptly stopped. I slowly tried to get back into it, but it has been mostly painful ever since. In the past few years, the pain had gotten to the point where I could only walk for very short distances, like from one room of my house to another.<br />
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Every once in a while I tried to go out to a nature park and struggle through a very short hike. I would usually barely make it back to my truck after only going a very short distance. I hoped I could get better with some exercise. It never worked. Most of my pictures these past few years came from the window of my truck.<br />
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I kept telling doctors about my problem, but none of them had any answers for me. The only thing I could do was to hope that one day I would somehow get better. I wasn't sure it was ever going to happen. But then recently something happened.<br />
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It began happening around June, but I was feeling less and less pain when I stood or walked. I was actually starting to feel better! After a while, I was able to go short distances without much pain at all. But I was afraid to go much farther for fear that I couldn't make it back.<br />
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And finally this week I decided to take a chance. I walked the distance through my small town to the post office. I was sure I would be exhausted when and if I made it back home. But I was just fine. My back hurt a little, but I wasn't very tired at all. I think I might finally be better.<br />
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I may need to take things slow and show a little care, but I'm going to try a little walk through whichever nature park is the dryest. I'm not sure how soon I can manage it, but I'll hopefully be back in one of my next few posts with pictures of a new short hike. I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6637168036712963543.post-5959239960578417662019-08-11T06:00:00.000-05:002019-08-11T06:00:06.579-05:00Delilah And My Sister<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you can see, I have finally come back for an update. It's been quite some time, hasn't it? I think last time I said I'd be posting more often. That turned out to be a whopper of a lie, didn't it? All I can say this time is that I'll be back whenever I can. So let's get to today's post.<br />
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This one is going to be a rambling two-parter. First I'll tell you about the pictures. Then I have an amusing story about my little sister. So about the pictures.<br />
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I took Delilah back out to the nearest nature park recently. She really loves to go, but she still has a hard time getting there. She's about 8 months old now and you are finally seeing the way she looks mostly grown up. She looks like a skinny German Shepherd. She's the same size as any normal German Shepherd but she is skinny looking compared to a full-bred dog of that kind.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir10CyoeWwZOvALIjfMQADrgIosSoTbI1tsH2mtmEZAbaQ8GxByexlbm0B6VDJzNRaPpA46hMqS0wQxQtjy35cm8Cl61CwXF0ZlKEpQbn4OXxKut9kUjQ0IBWbdGlQqjMB44sW2dTx0Ohw/s1600/P1110718.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir10CyoeWwZOvALIjfMQADrgIosSoTbI1tsH2mtmEZAbaQ8GxByexlbm0B6VDJzNRaPpA46hMqS0wQxQtjy35cm8Cl61CwXF0ZlKEpQbn4OXxKut9kUjQ0IBWbdGlQqjMB44sW2dTx0Ohw/s400/P1110718.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
That was a short update, so let's get to the story about my sister. She has a full-blooded German Shepherd and it's a huge one. My sister goes on Facebook, and everywhere else, constantly bragging about how big her dog, much bigger than all other dogs. She's one of those kind of people that has to have the biggest and best of everything, especially compared to yours.<br />
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So I decided to tweak her nose a bit about it. She, like you, has also only seen my dog in a few pictures. So I went on Facebook and began bragging about how it is actually my dog that is the biggest.<br />
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I didn't tell her this information specifically, but it got the desired results. Her whole family got angry at me for daring to say that my dog was the biggest. Maybe a little childish? Maybe I'm being childish as well, but I'm also having fun. And since I got the desired reaction I decided to add a little more to my puppy's story.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_BvsZJf-rhXvEvPpeKYMKMVkQgvfUo4xuuToKGLxzeRQmHnEZSHHre2_ykPqgVj_V8NOGBJCWl7WBKe8ppNo32yMboJyAs61huAsxLbcKOg3ceZfCjoBh-uF3B-Axf9MKubAj_lRuuJv/s1600/P1110717.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX_BvsZJf-rhXvEvPpeKYMKMVkQgvfUo4xuuToKGLxzeRQmHnEZSHHre2_ykPqgVj_V8NOGBJCWl7WBKe8ppNo32yMboJyAs61huAsxLbcKOg3ceZfCjoBh-uF3B-Axf9MKubAj_lRuuJv/s400/P1110717.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I went back on Facebook and posted that I got one of those doggy DNA tests to find out why my dog is just so huge, much bigger than all other German Shepherds. I said the results came back that the reason is that my dog is part German Shepherd and part Dire Wolf. Of course, Dire Wolves are long ago extinct.<br />
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My sister immediately got on my posts feed to inform me of that pesky extinction problem. She usually ignores me. She informed me that her oldest son told her about that knowledgable super-fact. Then she proceeded to comment on this same post about a dozen times with all of her knowledge on the subject and how superior she was for informing me of my lowly error.<br />
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That is the most she has spoken to me in the past year. She had no idea I did it all just to get her going and I was laughing at her the whole time. It's still pretty funny. I'm not sure if she has caught on to the joke yet. I do think she did finally begin to feel foolish towards her last comment or two. Next, I'll Photoshop a picture of me standing in front of my giant dog.<br />
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Just to finish today's post off, I want to say my sister and I get along just fine. I just thought it would be amusing to exploit this little vanity(insecurity) she has. And I had to tell a few people some of the kinds of things I do to make a person angry with me. And with that, hopefull sooner this time, I'll talk to you later.Rick (Ratty)http://www.blogger.com/profile/04062449024949497557noreply@blogger.com5