Norm's World #8

So spring was a little late for us New Englanders. Norm and his neighbors weathered almost two feet of rain in the last two months. Fortunately for most of this region, it's so hilly and rocky, the water moves away quickly. But perhaps the most phenomenal aspect is the supercharged plants and animals. Many of Norm's bushes have produced flowers. The water has sent them over the edge. And there is like four robins competing for Norm's yard. Worms beware!!

Norm's World #7

Norm gets tired just looking at this shot. Here is a wider angle of the big burn. If you look at the center of the photo, you can see how there is a vertical border of brown and green. The brown was, until recently, a thick overgrown network of thorny plants. Norm spent half a day whacking that crap back, and then mowed it.

Norm Tip #10

Norm says, It's summer. Go ahead and order the surf and turf."

Norm's World #6

New England, not unlike many of the states in the northern half of the USA, has lost population over the last decade. Norm feels the pain. With snowstorms that measure in feet, the high cost of heating oil, weather that changes hourly, and a three month summer, people get tired. They want that 85 degree daily average and straight-up blue sky to rock their world. And humidity has always been the deal breaker. New England can be very humid. Norm understands.

But this is home. New England is where it all began. It's bumpy back roads. The best rivalry in baseball. Clam chowder. Amazing autumns. Moose. Bugs you can kill. And 100% real maple syrup. It's Cape Cod. Twin lobster specials. And covered bridges. It's Norm's home, and the home of his ancestry. It's a snow covered mountain on a sunny November day. It's a place to be.

Norm's World #5

Norm recently accomplished a massive brush burn-off on his side yard. This is a common, but highly-restrictive practice in most rural towns. One must get a permit, which can be a pain. And one must follow almost impossible rules of engagement. This side lot was for a number of years, the dumping zone for the massive amounts of tree branches, logs, clippings, etc. this place generates. Norm had kept adding to the pile over the years, knowing the day would come when he would have to burn the brush. Well that point has come and gone, and this photo shows the end flames of a 10-hour marathon. Stay tuned.

Norm Tip #9

Norm says, "Don't skimp on skins. And the ribbed ones might really put her over the edge."

Norm's Summer Poll

Norm glanced at his calendar and noticed that the official summer season is about a week away. This could be a good time for one of Norm's fabulous polls. Okay bloggers, let's go!!

1. Name the one special thing you try and do each summer.

2. Ladies: Bikini or one-piece? Men: Speedo or traditional shorts?

3. Name your favorite beach.

4. Name your favorite Beach Boys song.

5. What has been your coolest beach experience?

Blue Heron

Norm managed to photograph this fellow as he hunted for his dinner. Blue Heron's are rare and on the endangered list. Norm thinks this fellow must be on the young side, as he seemed under three feet in height.

Norm Tip #8

Norm says, "If she starts to get lazy in bed, buy her some flowers and chocolates. If that doesn't work, invite her girlfriend over."

Norm's World #4

Norm has never seen so much rain. It rained this weekend. It was cloudy on Monday. It started again today, and has been pouring for almost eight hours!! Norm did see the sun on Tuesday, and it seemed like every plant in the world popped to attention. Here are some flowers in Norm's yard that he would like to share.

The Elvis Room #6

Norm managed to get two coats of polyurethane on the floor this weekend. Even with a mask, Norm had to leave the room every 10 minutes or so and take a break. Fortunately, the room could be closed-off. Norm had all three windows opened and a fan going.

Other weekend highlights included Norm eating a large mushroom pizza, a jar of Salsa Con Queso, and a box of Cheez-Its. Yeah, Norm was bored and it rained alot.