Because of my self imposed new rule where I don't watch cable news any longer

( it's been a week and a half )

I have nothing to rant about

so today's post will be titled

"Marks Home Improvements"

Your welcome.

Anyway, pleasant weather has arrived here in New London, Pa

so that means it's time to get off the couch,

the winter hibernation is over and it's time to get the yard back in shape.

Some people enjoy this.

That would not be me.

My wife headed out with rake in hand to start tackling the millions of nuts

and branches and stuff that has accumulated over the winter in our front yard

covering what little grass is battling to poke through the debris.

I headed out to the deck to give it a much needed makeover.

 It's been scrubbed and power washed

and it's now waiting for a clear wood sealer to bring it back to life.

I like the feel of the openness of a uncluttered deck.

My wife doesn't agree.

But I told her,

"We have much more room for activities!"

( referencing the movie Step Brothers.)

I explained there would be a new seating arrangement.

 Everyone jammed on one end promotes a feeling of closeness.

Like going to church,

we'll all sit in rows

and we'll all be much closer to the grill. 

She didn't like the idea.

**

On another note,

my friends hold a "White Elephant" party every year.

The idea is everyone brings a Christmas present they have received

that they just hate

and we exchange them at this party.

It's quite funny actually.

One rule is,

a gift can only be brought to the party 3 times.

After the same gift shows up 3 years in a row, the owner of that gift must keep it.

This past year I was lucky enough to walk away with this beautiful item.

It's an animal print purse lamp with matching night light!!!

Awesome, don't you think.

I mean, who wouldn't want this item enhancing your living room?

If you do......

I just listed it on ebay.

I'll give you free shipping.

Have a great weekend.