Hot Summer Tip #1

Norm says, "Put your beverages in the cooler before you add the ice."

Norm's World #30

Norm has no idea what type of plant this is. But that's one funky flower.

Beast of Burden

Ahhhh, here is Norm's old water pump. She provided many years of service. Norm would guess she was installed in the 70's!! But that would be a guess.

Norm's World #29

Well Norm was happy to see a family of geese feeding on his lawn today. They don't usually come this close to the house, but it gave Norm a chance to snaps some photos!!

Norm Tip #25

Norm says, "Small energy footprint equals a big human heart."

Norm's World #28

This little fellow has been hangin' around Norm's yard a little more than normal. Usually cardinals are a fleeting visitor. They're not like robins which hunt all day in full view. Norm saw this one's lover, as he did the funky chicken for her. He hopped towards her, reversing his position with each hop. It was a rare mating ritual moment. Norm thinks they've built a pad nearby and are raising a family.

Would You Drive It? #3

Norm loves trucks. Especially GMC or Chevy vehicles. Many of Norm's earlier jobs required he drive a pick-up and he was always amazed at how well they performed. Of course they're not a reasonable vehicle for an urban resident or long commuter. But for anybody that works a trade for a living, they're a must. Norm has been looking for a used truck for a long time. They're very rare around these parts, as everybody needs one. And the ones that are within Norm's price range are usually pretty rusted. But Norm recently got a lead on a used GMC long bed that he may be able to afford!! (The photo shows the 2007 GMC Sierra.)

Hummingbird #1

Norm photographed this little fellow today. He was so busy, he didn't seem to care how close Norm got.

Norm's World #27

Well, one of the results of Norm's water system being replaced was the availibilty of the old pressure tank. (Behold it in it's rusted beauty.) And being the surly cheapster he is, Norm devised an inexpensive seasonal water heating system. (Put the old tank in the greenhouse.) So Norm now has this tank connnected to his washer, and will be running hot water loads courtesy of the sun. (A major star in Norm's book.)

Norm hasn't been able to actually test the hook-up, due to the rain and cool weather. But when the sun is out, that corner easily heats to 100 degrees, if not more. Norm will report the results.

Norm Tip #24

Norm says, "For every kW of electricity you conserve at home, the utility company saves two in production and delivery."