Latest Trip to the Farm

So, this past weekend I went up to my dad's farm to do chores and work while he traveled with my step-mother went to Chicago for a bridal shower.  Even though I am just an hour away, I have learned that I am much more astute and attentive (not fatigued or run-down) if I spend the night instead of driving back and forth.  As one might expect when being "home," I am privy to any of the food or drink in the house.  Having eaten many times in Monticello, I have always been amazed by the quality and quantity of food presented by my stepmother.  She is an amazing cook, baker, and hostess and my dad is no slouch either.  So needless to say, there is a great time to be had a the breakfast, lunch, or dinner table at the Specht residence in Monticello.  However, when they are out of town and I go up to take care of the farm, I have frequently found myself needing to run into Anamosa or Monticello for lunch and dinner staples (something none of my siblings would ever imagine I'm sure). 

I have learned from this and when I go, I know bring along enough food to last through the meals and snacks I'll be there for.  This past weekend I decided to stop by the grocery store for some popcorn to munch on while watching some NCAA basketball (new format stinks for those without cable channels).  I was looking for some kettle corn but my "bachelor" portion of my mind was drawn to the box of Orville Redenbacher Caramel.  Ooohhh, this was the same popcorn that my wife and I would eat in our early days together, days when I weighed 75-80 lbs more.  Was there really any other box of popcorn that I was going to get?

So, I fed the calves, cows, cats, ewes, and rams.  I did my best George W. Bush interpretation clearing brush, tearing down fence, moving the church's parking pylons, and hauling manure.  After working Saturday, I cleaned up and made myself some caramel popcorn.  The first couple of handfuls were fantastic.  Endorphins flooded my brain and made me at ease.  The next couple of handfuls were showing the true colors:  Poorly flavored, coating my teeth, bothering my stomach, and creating groups of popcorn and old maids together.  Furthering my distaste for old maids (ba-dum ching).  Did I stop eating the popcorn?  Of course not.  I was on my own.  The man of my own destiny.  If I could have fit my head into the bowl, I would have licked it clean.  A great night after a wonderful day of work.  On Sunday, chores and a couple more things to do outside.  I have forgotten how much I love working out in the rain, even when it was "rain that flew in sideways."  Nothing, nothing, beats being outside.