Out and About – Week of March 14th

Here we are in the middle of March and my snow blower still has some gasoline in its tank. I’m at a loss as to what I should do. Should I run the snow blower out of gas and hope that we don’t get another storm, or should I hold off for a few more days? Suddenly I regain my senses. I will hold off for a few more days, because this is only March and this is Michigan. What was I thinking?
I’ve spoken with a few friends about what grade of gasoline I should use for my snow blower. I’m aware that one shouldn’t keep gasoline sitting around for more than a month, because it can go bad if it sits too long. I found this out the hard way, when my snow blower would not stay running. I some-how ran the blower out of gas and then filled it with 93 octane gasoline. The problem was solved. Homeowners might make a note of this. Also, I’ve been advised to use high octane gasoline for all small engines. I’m very fortunate to have a snow blower, but my wife insists on it, because she doesn’t want me shoveling the heavy snow and having a heart attack. After all, every man needs a few toys.
As I look at the piles of snow that have accumulated over the past couple of months, I can’t help but think of that phrase, “There are no two snowflakes alike.” This is very hard to believe, because I can’t imagine a team of experts taking the time to check out even ten snowflakes under a microscope. I guess it will just have to be one of those phrases we leave alone and just believe.
I’ve lost track of what the world population is right now. Someone out there has the responsibility of keeping track of all the births and deaths occurring throughout the world. With technology being what it is these days, a computer is probably doing all the work and running the statistics. Like snowflakes, I’m sure there are no two humans alike. Twins are similar in most ways, but we all have different finger prints. I’ve been told that I resemble Sean Connery, or even George Clooney, but I have serious doubts about that.
The day after tomorrow is St. Patrick’s Day, a day when we are all Irish. The city of Chicago really celebrates the day by having a parade and dying the Chicago River a bright green. Around here, there are St. Patty’s parties, and if you visit almost any drinking establishment, you’ll be able to enjoy a green beer. This year, March 17 falls on a Thursday, so have a good time, but remember that Friday is still a work day, and if you call in sick, you might be questioned about it. Above all, drink responsibly and make sure you have a designated driver.
Good friends help you find important things when you have lost them….things like your smile, your hope, and your courage. Good friends will also understand that we don’t all think alike or have the same beliefs. We should respect each other’s feelings.
See you Out and About!

Submitted by Norm Stutesman