Good Brats

I think there were at least a couple of dozen brats where we visited last night.  

They sat quietly together in the kitchen until the flames got going outside.

Then, they moved out there and sizzled just off the deck, not bothering any of the visitors but keeping everyone in expectation of when they could meet them face to face.

Soon the brats came back into the house where they met with buns, sauerkraut,relish, mustard and pickles. 

They shared their space with some hot German potato salad, chips and other finger foods.

These were GOOD brats.  

Both Bill and I commented on just how good they were when we climbed into our pickup after leaving a fun party at our neighbor Billie's house. 

"I've learned the secret for brats," he said, closing the car door.

Bill learned from Billie that brats need a little special attention, about 90 minutes simmering in a pot of beer and onions. 

Then, they go to the flames for the final treatment. 

I have a feeling Bill will be trying out Billie's Wisconsin-style method soon, and I know I'll be looking forward to sampling another brat when he does.

We had a wonderful time at Billie's appreciation party.  She wanted to thank CHaFE donors who supported her efforts in last week's 150-mile ride to raise funds for Panhandle Alliance for Education.

Bill told Billie we'd be happy to donate every year if it meant a party like that.   I agree.

Anyway, it was a nice finale to a somewhat miserable weekend, weatherwise.

For this week, though, I saw a week of icons on Facebook,  touting all but one day in the 70s and temps no lower than 45.

My garden should awaken and get back to work in the growth department.   The rain did stop on yesterday's cool, breezy day, allowing me to get a major portion of the lawn mowed.

Twasn't fun, taking that lawnmower through lakes, but it's a tough lawnmower, and it did its job. 

Today I can finish up and maybe do some garden weeding.

The sun hasn't shown up yet, but we still have a nice morning out there. 

Maybe this week will stay nice enough that we can have a gathering of brats right here on our front deck. 

The deck has been suffering from a severe lack of use this year, 'cept for those few dry days when Jonas and Festus, the kitties, take up space, living the good life as lounge lizards.   

Anyway, it's looking like a good and busy week ahead, especially with the Women of Wisdom luncheon coming up this Saturday.  

For now, happy Monday.  Helen, I hope Alaska is treating you well! And, Jim, enjoy your new routine!  :)