officially retired

Had my teeth cleaned today, early - then went on to the Social Security Administration - and filed for my retirement. It wasn't the 'work world' that finally tired me out - it was from all those years, having to raise such a large family.

My appointment at the SSA was at 11:17 am.  There, I sat down with an agent named R. Smith. After a brief introduction and exchanging some relevant information - the conversation started like this.......

Smith -  "This conversation will be recorded, under penalty of perjury. Do you accept?"

myself - "yes."

Smith -  "What was your occupation?"

myself - "Photographer."

Agent Smith leaned back, hesitated, then with a little excitement in his voice,  said .... "Have you ever taken photos of those young women at NFL games?"

Starting in March, the 4th Wednesday of every month, and until death -  I will be receiving monthly, an electronic transfer of $346.00 into my checking account.

camping with my buddies

On the road.

A fine young steer. The hundred acre wood (campsite) outside Okeechobee.

A sweet young Brahman.

Molly - the mule.  The "heard protector" for the whole cattle heard. (kicks at all the wild coyotes).

A dozen roses.

Me - in charge of the fire.

Cookin' some thick country bacon - from our best wrangler, Pete.

the "circuit riders"

"All the riches accumulated by all the world's kingdoms, throughout time could not equal one moment, nor aspire to the glory, majesty, and sweetness of the night we fellow-shipped together in the woods at an old-fashioned Brush Arbor Day Meeting". (pamphlet, Old Miakka Church)

The 'circuit riders' rode through-out the countryside - church to church. They preached in the small chapels and preached outside, under constructed arbors made from cut brush. "You would hear at least three fire-filled sermons from different pastors before the young fell asleep".  Traditionally, these 'revival meetings' went on through the night - till the weary, next morning light.

Bible reading - Ephesians 1:5 (Old Miakka Church)

(Ret.) Pastor Todd Lucas's sermon - Old Miakka United Methodist Church

the wheelbarrow

This winter has been unseasonable warm and my buddy, my wheelbarrow has been good at hand - and hardworking, as if it were spring.

Since the simple round wheel was first invented, this common tool, with few improvements, has been a true practical luxury worldwide.  Such a timeless design - yet a workhorse - where every man and woman has once appreciated it's usage.

Maybe, the next post should be about the "the broom".