Good afternoon, all!  My favorite time of the year has arrived it's Michigan Wolverines Football Saturday!!!  Go Blue!!!  The temps here in Ohio have been in low 70's for the past couple of weeks and I am loving it!!  I mean summer temps went from beginning to be cold to scorching hot, so I guess ready or not we have gone right into Fall temps.

This week put me a little off sort with the Annunciation shooting. I will never get used to the shock when things like this comes over the news.  Evil will always be a part of our lives and once again innocent sweet lives have been taken by such an evil person. I just absolutely hate how immediately it becomes a political back and forth discussion seeming to forget those who are dealing with the pain of losing their loved ones not to mention those still in the hospital recovering and the community as a whole who must process this.  Vanilla-Jackie I agree with you...turn off your TVs. And I will add to pray for this community and the world. 

I hope you all have a nice relaxing Labor Day weekend.  We no longer get together as a family for a cook-out and swim day like we used to, so I think my hubby and I will go try our luck at the casino.  

   

It's hard to understand people just killing other people. I often sit and ponder what has happened over the years, that even allows some to think that way. We, as young people, had access to guns and other things that are not acceptable today, and we never had a problem with it. ----- What has changed.

Jackie - Good to see your message here this morning!  I hope you return again, and start posting here on a regular basis.  Yes,  I think that people in their mid 60's were considered elderly back then.  Also, there have been advances in medicine since then, so many things  are now curable.   My Father lived on to the age of 81, and was a lifelong cigarette smoker, so it's hard to predict.

Ciaobella -  I agree with you, how the tragedy of the killings, immediately became a political issue. Dem vs Rep.   Unfortunately  I don't see an end in sight.  The hate is only getting worse.
I hope you have a nice relaxing weekend visiting the Casino.  They usually have good food at the casino's, so enjoy a nice Labor Day meal! 
 
Rick -  Good to see you posting here too.  I think we all have an idea as to what has happened to cause the divide in our Country.  It started with the internet, and web sites like Twitter, and now X and Facebook, where people (well known celebrities, as well as ordinary people like us) can say whatever they want to about anyone or anything.   It's shocking the terrible things people say to each other online!   So much hatred out there! 

Good morning everyone,
I've been working hard on my response to the impending spray. Lots of records reviewing and gathering....

Its 90°F+ until next Friday. 🥵 poacher season has started. Ron finished insulating and has moved on to building the porch. He poured a footing Saturday, built the cinder block walls yesterday. He'll be framing the roof and enclosure walls today. I asked him to build it in a way that rodents and rattlesnakes will not take up residence underneath, hence the cement/cinder block foundation. It will have space to stack fire wood for ease of use in winter.

Ciaobella, sorry to hear your teeth problems are still plaguing you. I'm also experiencing teeth and jaw pain, though mine appears to be from wind drift of volatizing pesticide. It is miserable! I HATE teeth pain/problems too!!!!

Marilyne and Rick, I think it started with taking God out of schools and the public square. When there was no absolute truth, and everybody did what they claimed was right in their own eyes, every evil becames permissible: justification, rationalization. The behavior on social media is horrific, but is a natural result turning from Godliness.

Hi Jackie! Good to see you!

Happy Labor Day all!! I was curious as to when and why Labor Day became a federal holiday so of course I Googled it:

Origin of Labor Day
Labor Day began as a response to the harsh working conditions faced by American laborers in the late 19th century. During this time, many workers endured long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments. The labor movement sought to improve these conditions, leading to the establishment of a holiday to honor workers.

Key Events Leading to Labor Day
First Labor Day Parade: The first Labor Day parade took place on September 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by the Central Labor Union. About 10,000 workers participated, marking a significant moment in labor history.
Federal Recognition: Labor Day became a federal holiday on June 28, 1894, after a series of labor strikes, including the Pullman Strike, highlighted the need for better labor rights. President Grover Cleveland signed the law to help mend relations with workers.
Founders of Labor Day
The exact origin of Labor Day is debated. Two individuals are often credited:

Peter J. McGuire: Co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, he proposed a day to honor workers in 1882.
Matthew Maguire: Secretary of the Central Labor Union, he is also claimed to have proposed the holiday around the same time.
Both played significant roles in the early labor movement, contributing to the establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday. Wikipedia Investopedia

So, in essence the unions decided we needed a day of rest to celebrate our labors.  lol  Oh, do I have a lot of thoughts running through my head but they will remain there. lol

Rick, I agree we had access to weapons to harm others, but I just don't think it was in our nature to do so.  The easy access to the internet and all social media along with the irresponsible bias in all of the media on tv have all but given the idea that if you use a narrative to influence the public then all can just be excused for their main purpose of pushing their agendas giving everyone the sense of complacency. Look how quickly they move to the next narrative and forget the incident that just happened a couple of days ago.  Desensitizing has become a major issue with the games children are allowed to access on their devices and early introduction in the schools with books that teach your children values you do not accept in your home.  It's truly become a society of not seeing or respecting human life from womb to tomb.  When you are told a fetus is now considered a clump of cells, and an elderly person suffering from some form of sickness no longer has the quality of life so you can refuse them proper health care we should not be at all surprised how it conveys the message human life is no longer valued.

OLM, you nailed it with taking God out of the equation!  It's come to a sad time when you turn your tv on and you see topless people on the White House lawn, when you hear your representatives using the "F" word, drag queens reading stories to Kindergarteners, etc. Morals and values are laughed at and mocked.  Families rarely sit down at the table to eat and pray together, let alone go to church because sports are far more important or sleeping in because the parents are tired from working endless hours. 

Dr. Phil Magraw has a saying when asked why things have gotten so bad...he says,

Quote"Instead of asking yourself why, you should be asking yourself why not?"   

Gosh, I suppose I have gone on far too long and need to end this rant.  It's just I have such passion for human life, and it sickens me to see how lives can be snuffed out at all ages because of the beliefs and disregard of others.

Marilyne, I agree, I don't see an end in sight.  I do pray because I will never give up hope on humanity.

OLM, I'm glad you are getting your things done for your home.  My pain is all gone and all healed.  I hope you find relief for yours. 

Good morning one and all!
Its 62°F, headed for a heat advisory of 94°F. Its going to be a recovery day for me. Too many exposures while out on poacher patrol. Instead of just a 1/2 mile loop, we do all three loops. One, the back fence, I've been prohibited from due to an areal spraying earlier. It still hurts me pretty bad, but I need to do it. I found a tree down across the fence and needed to cut it out and mend broken wires. I found a discarded granola bar wrapper on my property, right there. So somebody already trespassed through it. Poachers figure a weakness in a fence is an open door.

Ron worked on Saturday before and after our daughter, SIL and grandkids came for the afternoon. He worked all day Sunday and Monday. I now have the porch, with a solid rodent, rattlesnake proof base. He will pour the one step next week; he ran low on concrete. He's begun framing the walls. It will be covered. Shelter from the elements and a handy place to stack firewood.

Did I tell you my SIL helped my husband move my woodstove and refrigerator into my tiny house? I bought the fridge early in the spring. Its been in our storage container until they moved it. My daughter, Alex, and the Gkids helped me unpack it: removing the toxic plastic films and foam. Its a smaller fridge than "normal," but 3x the one I have in my RV. Everybody came in and enjoyed the inspection. The Gkids have helped with the building of it, especially the middle child, Toby. He loves construction. They had a good time with the pull down stairs and playing in the loft. They were much more interested in all the things that we're going to do up there for they're comfort, now that its this far along. It was easier for them to relate, and visualize.

Its getting light out... I better get moving. Not neatly done with messaging. Thinking of each of you, and very glad you're here.[/bl

OLM,   You're up bright and early, and have already accomplished more than I will in the entire week ahead.   Nice that most of your family were there with you over Labor Day.  Lots of hard labor going on at your  place just about every day, so "no rest for the weary",  in your little compound.  It does sound like your grandson is especially interested in the entire project.   What a wonderful experience for him . . . learning how to be self sufficient!  I know you want to wrap up a lot of the work, before the rain and snow sets in, which  is only in a month or so.

Ciaobella,  thanks for the history on the origin of Labor Day.  I would have guessed it was during the Teddy Roosevelt administration, but it was way before that.  As for the political situation now . . . so hard to make progress, with all the endless "roadblocks", constantly being thrown in place to disrupt every logical move/.
Something of interest I've been wanting to tell you about.   My older daughter and granddaughter,  (who has Autism, but is high functioning),  have made it their goal, to visit and tour all of the California Missions.  This past week they  went to Mission San Jose - Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph.  They brought me a variety of small items that they purchased in the Mission gift shop, that are specifically for wellness and healing.    I was so moved and pleased and by their thoughtfulness.  I may take a picture and post it soon.

More on that at another time.  Today, I hope to get out for a hair cut!!   It's been since June, that I had my last cut.  I trimmed it myself a few times over the Summer, but only made it worse.  Now looks like a shaggy old mop!   

Hi all!!!

OLM, I am so glad you had your family there for the weekend to help you with your fridge and other projects. Nothing is as special as family time. 

Marilyn, I see we have yet one more thing in common, my grandson Zak was diagnosed on the Autism spectrum when he was 3 yrs. old.  He too is high functioning.  He goes to an all-boys Catholic High School and has made the President's list and the Honor Society every year so far and has participated in CYO basketball and cross country and is now on the school bowling team.  Last year he did the stats for the high school football teams and this year he is videotaping the games with a drone.  For someone we weren't sure how he would fit into activities due to his social skills, school and sports has exceeded our expectations.  He got his first job at Chick-fil-A this past summer and will continue working part time although this is his Senior year and he wants to have time to enjoy all the things possible. I recall when he was in a public school in 1st grade the teacher refused to acknowledge him being on the spectrum stating he is far ahead of the class and needed no special consideration.  My son and dil immediately removed him and placed him in a Catholic elementary school which not only had special needs for autistic students, but he seemed to flourish there.  He was a bit bored by the time he was in 6th grade, so they decided to place him in St. Francis De Sales Jr./High school in the 7th grade. He absolutely loves sports and hopes that whichever college he attends he will be able to be a statistician for their football team.  He and I have been extremely close since his birth, and he will call me with Michigan Wolverine news and still come and spend the night and watch Saturday football with us.  We taught him how to play Monopoly during our sleepovers and now he is the Champion of wins! Grandkids are the light of our world for certain.  How sweet of your daughter and granddaughter to bring you special items from their trip. 

Believe it or not I have not been to a hair salon in 4 yrs. I color and cut my own hair.  I have cut my two sons' hair throughout their years growing up but stopped when the styles changed in high school.  I've been cutting my husband's hair since 1983. I joke with him and say he can credit the fact he is not bald due to me cutting his hair. lol

Okay, must run I want to go to Michael's craft store to purchase some new Fall decorations.  Fall is my favorite time of year, I finally gave in and packed away the summer decor.  Our temps have been in the low 50s in the morning going up to the low 70s so I am enjoying sitting out on the patio more.

   

Cutting hair yourself saves you a fortune.
I cut our kids hair till they were old and wise enough to complain about it. By then they could go on their own to a Barber Shop and get it done.
I also cut my wife's hair toward the end. She couldn't always get out. She had a simple cut and when she got it done out she was told I did pretty good. Strange, but I found it rewarding.

I am finally getting around to checking in today. The weekend was quite. Yesterday, I joined my sister for lunch at T. J. Rockwell's. We were seated out on the patio, and we both ordered the fish and chips. The weather was just right, bright with puffy white clouds here and there. The temperature was just right and there were no pesky insects about. Too bad the greenhouse across the street was closed for the day.

I got a few things done this morning with more to do this afternoon. Oscar and Shan have been mighty quiet today and yesterday. I am enjoying that while it lasts.

This past week I have been watching the live meteor showers posted on the YouTube feed from the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii. When I first tune in, it is usually around midnight give or take local Hawaii time. The Perseods were first in mid-August, followed a day or two later by a light meteorite shower from the Auriga constellation just below. Also, there were lots of planes and satellites criss-crossing the sky, Saturn and Venus. Last but not least, I got to watch the Pleiades and my favorite constellation, Orion, rise into the sky at about 4AM Hawaii time. After a week or so of that is enough for a while I think, especially as the lights from the city and the Moon are interfering. Still, it is better than I have now with all the lights around me now.

Well, time to get back to work. I have to make up the bed yet, do laundry and get a bag of trash ready to take to the dumpster.

Good morning!

What lovely posts, Marilyne and Ciaobella! The Mission tour must have been fun😃 I love hearing about other high functioning Autists and their making a place for themselves in this world. What wonderful supportive families😍.

I enjoyed your sharing your lively luncheon and viewing the showers too MG.

Haircuts: I used to cut my husband and son's hair. My husbands only when he couldn't get in to the barber on his schedule. My son's, like your kids Rick, until he decided he wanted a "real" haircut. My daughter and I have long hair, so it was just trimming. One of my son's, friend's father had a "Flowbe." My son thought it was great and got his air cut by him a few times.😄

Wow, a thought from the past.  - "Flowbe." - I have a "Flowbe." up in the attic. Never used. I had even forgot about it. Some day someone will find it and wonder what it is. BTW - My attic has an area/room that is insulated and reasonably temperature controlled. Good place for stuff that can't endure temp and weather conditions, as usually found in an attic.

Flowbee! I haven't heard of them in a long time, but they apparently still exist. I saw prices up to $350.00 for a set. George had one. At the time, I thought it did a better job of trimming his hair that his regular barber.

My day, today, consists mostly of doing laundry, taking out some trash, whatever paperwork needs doing, and reading.

Fall allergy season has arrived. Both Sue and I have started experiencing the usual stuffy noses. It has been nice weather so far this week. But wouldn't you know it, the only day I must drive somewhere, Friday, will be raining. The route is hilly, windy, and 35 miles an hour which, BTW, very few people seem to think is necessary.

Rick, yes, I think cutting their hair and my own was very rewarding and saved us a ton of money! To have my  hair colored, highlights, blow out and styled I am looking at nearly $150 with tip. That's just too expensive for me.  I cringe spending $50 for my dog's grooming. I remember the last time my hubby had his hair done by a beautician/barber it was in 1983, he came home and was so upset.  From then on, I've done his hair.

OLM, I am not sure I know what a Flowbee is??  I have to Google it.  lol

MarsGal, your luncheon sounds perfect sitting outside with your sister. We have our breakfast and dinner outside on our patio whenever the weather permits. We had a Hummingbird come right next to our table the other day as if he didn't mind us being next to the Azelea flowers he comes to. 

Speaking of things to do today I need to get my shower so we can go to the Farmer's mart for some pumpkins.  I have begun decorating for Fall and so I need to stop by Michael's craft store for a few things and then to Paran's greenhouse for pots of Mums.  I truly enjoy this time of year! 

You all have a great day!

I'm intrigued by the many comments about the Flowbee!?    How could I have lived this long, and never seen or heard of one?  Sounds like it  must be some kind of a "hair cutting machine"? 🤔  I  plan to Google it, as soon as I finish this message.

This morning older daughter Shelley,  and Claire, came over early, and did some work around here for us.  They usually come on Wednesday, and get all the trash out to the curb for tomorrow's pick-up.  I'm grateful for the way they rush around and empty the wastebaskets in  all the rooms, and especially clear all the old food and leftovers out of the fridge.

OLM - Claire,  my granddaughter with autism, will be 34 years old in December.  She graduated from high school, and has taken some college courses off and on at the Community Colleges, but is definitely not one of the autistic adults who has a special talent or ability, or is interested in higher education.  She is active in a local church near where they live, and has friends there, and takes part in lots of activities .  Some are service activities, like working at the local Food Bank, or serving holiday meals at the church for people without families.

Mars - You mentioned that you and Sue are both suffering from Fall allergies.  Same problem here!  Fall has always been the worst time of year for me.  The air is dry and stagnant , with no rain since late Spring, and none expected for another month or so.  Lots of brush fires, but so far this year, none of the terrifying wild fires.

Ciaobella - You've inspired me to decorate the house a little for Fall this year!  I do have a few things stashed away, if I can find them.  Mostly I would love to visit our huge Fair Winds Nursery, for some fall annuals to plant, and well as a a few pumpkins and some gourds.  Sounds like a wonderful  way to spend an afternoon!  let us know what you purchased?

The "Flowbee". Around here there were endless commercials for the Flowbee on TV. Sounds like they sold a bunch of them --- except in California. The pictures shown with a search sum up the whole thing.

Fall allergies = Ragweed. I think this extra hot summer has likely produced more Ragweed than usual, and we'll all pay the price. Most Spring allergies are from grass and tree pollen.

Flowbee, electric hair cutting tool with attached vacuum. The vacuum sucks the hair straight up the adjustable height tube, the electric cutters  take off the extra and the vacuum tube above the cutters removes the hair. You end up with a perfectly even "feathered" cut, no mess. 

I believe it was originally just made to attach to your own vacuum, now you can get it with its own mini-vacuum, hose and parts. Interesting to know that Flowbee still exists, is made in the US and headquartered in Texas. I am trying to remember if Flowbee was originally sold through the "As Seen on TV" franchise. Does anyone remember those ads?

Tomorrow I am going to have my thumb looked at. It doesn't want to bend without causing some pain, etc.

Sorry to hear about your thumb, MG!

Quote from: MarsGal on September 04, 2025, 08:22:04 AMDoes anyone remember those ads?

I remember them. There were as many as there are Medicare Ads now. Definitely "As seen on TV".

Marilyn, yes, get your Fall decorations out and enjoy the season!  I have to admit I am a bit of a Hallmark house for every holiday, I especially go over the top with Fall and Christmas. I've never cared for Halloween just because I don't like spooky, creepy things and I grew up in a small rural town, so we never went trick or treating because there were no houses close by to go door to door, so I do Fall decorations instead.  When the kids were growing up, I did some Halloween decorations for them.  I had never carved a pumpkin until I had my children. Anyway, our first stop at Michael's I found some really beautiful Fall colored couch throws, then we went to Keeny's orchard and got pumpkins, peaches and apples. I will be making peach cobbler and apple crisp with them.  And then we went to Parron's which had a great sale on mums (3 nice size pots for only $17.00) and they had fresh picked corn on the cob!  Then we stopped at our favorite Mom & Pop restaurant and had an early dinner.  Ended our day at our church book club discussing The Screwtape Letters.  Oh, how cunning C.S. Lewis describes the works of the devil.

OLM, I can't imagine not having any rain for that long length of time. I fell asleep last night to the sound of rain, something I suppose I take for granted when others are in such need for it.  I pray the fires do not get out of control.  Your granddaughter Clair sounds like she like my grandson is what they call high functioning autistic. I have a great nephew in his late teens and is nonverbal very low functioning, not able to do much for himself. My niece his mother utilizes all the resources available to help him and her to cope. 

MarsGal, I hope your thumb is okay.  Sometimes I can grab something or lift something and not feel any pain, but the next day realize I may have sprained or pulled a muscle.

Rick, along with the beautiful colors of Fall, as you stated comes the allergies. My daughter was tested for allergies when she was preteen, and it showed she was allergic to everything possible environmental, with Spring and Fall being her worst seasons.  She moved to Florida when she was 21 yrs. old and her allergies are not nearly as bad as they were living in Ohio.

Okay, after that busy day yesterday I plan to settle in and do very little today. I bought a book titled The Silver Ladies of Penny Lane by Dee MacDonald and hope to begin reading it.  My neighbor is reading it and says it's packed with humor.

Good Morning all - still morning here in CA, at 11:20.

Ciaobella -  Looks like you got my post confused with OLM's yesterday.
Claire is my 34 year old granddaughter.  She lives with her Mom, our daughter Shelley, in San Jose. We live in a neighboring suburb, so fortunately, we get to see them a lot.  Also, it was me, who was complaining about the dry weather - The last rain here was in April, and we don't expect to see any until October, at the earliest.   It's the same every year in CA, so we complain a lot, but we're used to the dry, dry, dry! 
Sounds like you are well on your way to decorating your house for Fall!  I got sidetracked yesterday, so didn't look to see what I have left from last year that still looks good?    Also, your Peach Cobbler and Apple Crisp sound delicious! 

Mars -  Sorry to see that your thumb is still not healed. 
I know how hard it is to type, while trying not to use a sore finger or thumb.  Somehow we carry on with the computer, regardless! 

Mars and Rick -  I'm pretty sure that we never had the TV ads for the Flowbee, here in N. California?   I don't believe I would forget anything that bizarre!!  I looked it up on Google, and I see that George Clooney still has a lot to say about it.  He says that he has "hair the texture of straw",  and that Flowbee still works really well for him.    Hard to believe that an A-List movie star worth millions, would still be using one, but maybe that's why he always looks the  same.  Interesting side story - his  parents, still live in the family home in Kentucky, where he grew up.  His Dad  and I  are the same age! 

Marilyne, I think everyone moved out, or at least went away for the weekend --- or more.

good morning all,

I've just been busy working. I still have firewood to cut for the winter, if Ron gets the wood cookstove installed. I wrote a report in "Soda Shoppe" earlier this morning. I hope you're all doing well.

Good Morning to  all Bait & Tacklers!    It's been almost a month since anyone, (myself included),  has posted here.  I'm back on my feet,  (almost),  after a long bout with sciatica.  An affliction that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy!!    (Even if I  had a worst enemy, which I don't have?)   

So hoping to hear from our regular posters once again!

Ciaobella,  I enjoy reading your messages very  much, and hope you continue on with the  updates on your life and your family!    We'd love to see some pictures of your Fall decorations?   

OLM,    Hoping that your health problems have improved since you last posted here.  Did you ever get an appointment with the new doctor, who sounded so promising?   When will it be time for you to move back to your farm for the Winter?

Rick,  so grateful to you for "hanging in there" and continuing to post on many of the discussions in S&F . . . in spite of our occasional "slow downs.")    Messages were few and far between this  past month, but now have started up again !

Bubble,    So good to have you back with us again! We were all worried about you, and happy to know that it was only an ongoing computer problem.    Thanks to your son Tany,  for helping you get back online.

Jackie - you don't post much anymore, but we're always glad to hear from you, and that you're doing the best you can to live with MS. I know it's a constant pain for you, and hope that you are still getting the help you need?

Patricia -  I haven't see a post from you anywhere in S&F for a week or so?  I always enjoy ready your informative messages about interesting things, so please return and help us to learn something new and interesting!  Hope you don't have an early Winter this year, and can enjoy a few more weeks of Autumn.

MarsGal -  Glad we can count on you to keep posting, when the messages slow down.  You always have something  interesting to say, either here, or in Library, that gets me to thinking and wanting to do a little research!

Not many of us left in S&F, and I know we all miss our old friends who are no longer here with us . . . but we can continue on as long as possible! 
 

Good Afternoon,

Marilyne didn't mention me but I've been noticing that most of posts are by Rammel and Jackie in "game" forums.  Very few in "conversational" forums and I didn't have anything to say about subjects.

Finally!  Grandson got married last weekend!!!! . It was an outside wedding at a "venue" in a rural setting and was unusual IMO.  The bride/attendants wore formal gowns and the guys wore jeans, cowboy boots and black Stetsons!  Their son, 16 months old, was "ring bearer" in his little car pushed down the aisle by a groomsman. He also wore jeans, boots and a western hat.
They're honeymooning in a resort in the Dominican Republic and I hope the current hurricane doesn't affect their flight home tomorrow.

I've had almost a month of various appointments and workers coming.  Glad I have nothing on the calendar - yet - for the next few weeks.
I plan to sleep in and have "leisurely" days reading e-books from my Wish List on the library website.

Wishing Everyfriend A Wonderful and Healthy Time  CUL8R

Hi Callie -      I'm so glad you checked in!  I loved hearing all about your Grandson's wedding, and especially liked your opening statement . . .
"Finally!  Grandson got married last weekend!!!!"  (Emphasis on the word Finally)     That's the way the young couples do it in today's World . . . they keep you guessing for years!

The wedding sounds like it was lots of fun . . . half formal and half Western cowboy!    I'll bet their 18 month old son looked adorable in his cowboy outfit, riding in his little car. 

Keep us posted on how youre doing, and also about the other grandchildren? 

Speaking of snow, I do live just inside the Arctic; weather report from Thursday, the 25th, FAIRBANKS, Alaska - The first widespread snow event of the season blanketed parts of the Final Frontier this week, signaling that winter is fast approaching.

Snowfall was reported along the Eastern Alaska Range, including Isabel Pass, where upwards of 7 inches of snow fell.

The frozen precipitation was significant enough that National Weather Service meteorologists issued a Winter Weather Advisory and said travel could be difficult along roadways such as the Richardson Highway.

Forecasters said snow levels dipped to around 1,200 feet - the lowest so far this season - but not low enough to impact more populated areas around Fairbanks, the state's second-biggest city, which sits at an elevation of about 400 feet.

This was not the first time snow has been reported during the second half of the year, but it is widely considered the most impactful so far.

Frozen precipitation has occurred off and on along the Brooks Range since mid-August, but because of the terrain, there has often been little disruption.

The recent snowfall even led to a dusting at lower elevations of Denali National Park, one of the largest NPS sites in the country.

Then, on Sunday, the 28th forecast,  38°Hi

Intermittent snow and flurries in the morning; otherwise, remaining cloudy and cold

In a usual time, we receive our first snow around the last two weeks of October.

However due to a serious lack of humidty, a full day of snow would be seen as a dusting of snow by others.

 

Patricia -  While sitting here looking at your photo of the early snowfall, I was reminded of a picture I have been meaning to post for you,  ever since last Winter.  I mentioned to you a few years go, that my daughter-in-law, has a stepsister who lives  in Fairbanks, somewhere on the outskirts of town?   This is a picture taken of her house.  Taken around Christmas last year, or maybe Jan. or Feb?   I saved it all these months, thinking it was such a pretty photo.  Seeing the Aurora in the sky gives it a special beauty.

Marilyne, I wonder what side of the city she lives on, north, east, south or west? The reason I ask is the city sits right up to and partially on foothills to the east, north or south. If it is to the north or northeast, closer to Denali, she will have a different type of weather. The west side of the city is on the Interior's plain. That plain is surrounded by mountains, some of the highest in the world next to Everest.

Here's a recent tongue in cheek article about differences between Alaskans and the lower 48,

25 Things Alaskans Will Never Understand About Lower 48 States

By Jon Dykstra,
1 days ago

Here's a playful look at the cultural whiplash Alaskans get when they visit the Lower 48. Life up north rewires your sense of distance, daylight, and danger in ways most Americans never experience.

Things like black ice, block heaters, and moose-at-large aren't quaint trivia—they're logistics. So when Alaskans head south, the little assumptions other states make can feel downright alien.

25. "Long Drive" Means Two Hours... Max

In much of the Lower 48, a "long drive" is anything over 90 minutes. In Alaska, that's just getting warmed up, and you probably still have gravel ahead. People underestimate how far apart things can be and how few alternate routes exist. An Alaskan hears "five hours away" and thinks day trip, not road odyssey.

24. Snow Day Thresholds

Schools and offices in the Lower 48 can close for a dusting. In Alaska, life keeps moving through whiteouts, negative temps, and roads that look like frosted glass. The bar for disruption is simply higher because winter is the default, not the exception. Alaskans are baffled when a light flurry empties supermarket shelves.

23. Hills Called "Mountains"

A ridge with a ski lift is lovely, but Alaskans reserve the word "mountain" for the big, jagged, glaciated kind. The Lower 48 has stunning ranges, yet many local "peaks" read as hills to Alaska-calibrated eyes. Scale becomes a running joke after you've stared at Denali on a clear day. Once your baseline is colossal, everything else looks pocket-sized.

22. Predictable Daylight

Nine-to-five daylight cycles feel almost luxurious to Alaskans. The Lower 48 doesn't require blackout curtains in summer or sun lamps in winter just to stay sane. Down south, sunrise and sunset times barely ripple across seasons. In Alaska, light rules your mood, your errands, and sometimes your sleep.

21. Thermostat Drama

Friends in the Lower 48 debate 68°F versus 72°F like it's constitutional law. Alaskans spend months negotiating with real cold, not just indoor climate preferences. You wear layers, you manage drafts, and you don't fear a quick dash outside at -10°F. Heat waves baffle Alaskans less than the panic over a crisp autumn day.

20. Wildlife Proximity Protocols

Cute deer in a backyard are one thing; a moose blocking your car is another. Lower 48 folks might edge closer for a photo; Alaskans instinctively give space and an escape route. Bears aren't an abstract camping risk—they're an urban planning consideration. Curiosity is fine, but distance is survival.

19. Salmon Isn't Just "Fish"

In many states, salmon is a menu item; in Alaska, it's a calendar and a culture. Runs, gear, and tides are daily conversation topics, not foodie trivia. The words "dipnet," "smoker," and "vac-seal" are household verbs. Farmed versus wild isn't a debate—it's a foregone conclusion.

18. Fences Everywhere

In the Lower 48, "No Trespassing" signs and fences patchwork the landscape. Alaska's sheer amount of public land resets expectations about access and roaming. Trailheads can be rough, unmarked, and profoundly free. The idea that every patch of green is owned and posted feels claustrophobic.

17. Winterization Isn't Optional

Block heaters, extension cords snaked across parking lots, and studded tires are normal up north. Many Lower 48 drivers treat winter prep like an accessory, not a baseline. In Alaska, you plan for batteries, fluids, and frozen door seals. If your car isn't ready by October, you aren't either.

16. Black Ice vs. Road Salt

Lower 48 roads often get salted into sloppy slush. Alaska leans more on sand, traction, and pure caution. Black ice awareness becomes a sixth sense after a few seasons. The idea that a plow and salt truck solve everything feels optimistic.

15. Aurora as Bucket List

Down south, seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. In Alaska, it's spectacular—but also Tuesday if the forecast is right. People schedule midnight drives like they're chasing a food truck. The excitement is real, but the mystique gets tempered by routine.

14. Disaster Dialects

Lower 48 folks trade hurricane and tornado lore. Alaskans swap earthquake kits, tsunami routes, and "where were you during the shaker" stories. Preparedness looks different depending on your map. The surprise is how casually people ignore fault lines until they don't.

13. Commuting by Ferry or Bush Plane

Subways and ride-shares make perfect sense in big continental grids. In Alaska, flights to neighboring towns and ferries that double as highways are just life. "Road access" is a genuine question, not a metaphor. The Lower 48 forgets that not every dot on the map has a road.

12. Sticker Shock Goes Both Ways

Lower 48 friends gasp at Alaska grocery prices and fuel costs. Alaskans visit mainland warehouse stores and feel like they've stumbled into a sale that never ends. Supply chains change the math on everything from milk to lumber. The real shock is realizing that both realities are normal for where they are.

11. Calling at Wild Hours

People in the Lower 48 often forget Alaska's four-hour time gap. Early morning "quick calls" land in the pre-dawn darkness up north. Alaskans become experts at calendar invites with explicit time zones. If you don't specify, someone's coffee will go cold waiting.

10. Hunting and Gathering as Food Strategy

For many Lower 48 households, meat is a barcode away. In Alaska, freezers full of moose, caribou, or salmon are the original meal prep. It's less of a hobby than household resilience. The satisfaction of "we put this up" doesn't translate on a restaurant receipt.

9. Mosquito Season with Bite

Lower 48 bugs are annoying; Alaskan mosquitoes audition for villain roles. Long sleeves, head nets, and smoky campfires become fashion statements. Repellent is a condiment you apply generously. The only joke is calling them the "state bird" because it's too true.

8. Moose and HOA Rules

Many neighborhoods down south worry about lawn height and mailbox color. Alaskans worry about a moose bedding down next to the porch. You prioritize wide driveways and clear sightlines over curb appeal. The "wildlife clause" isn't in the HOA manual, but it runs the place anyway.

7. Coffee Huts > Coffee Chains

Drive-thru coffee huts dot Alaskan roads like milepost markers. They open early, stay late, and remember your order when daylight forgets you. Big chains make sense in cities, but huts match the rhythm of the road. In winter, a steaming cup passed through a window feels like community.

In the Lower 48, the lights flicker and social feeds explode. In Alaska, generators hum, lanterns come out, and soup goes on the stove. You measure outages in chores completed rather than minutes offline. It's not stoicism—just practiced choreography.

5. Fireweed as a Seasonal Clock

Pumpkin spice announces fall down south. In Alaska, people watch fireweed bloom to the top to predict first frosts. Nature keeps the calendar better than any marketing rollout. When the stalks go cottony, you find your hats.

4. "Remote" Actually Means Remote

Lower 48 "remote" might mean no delivery service. In Alaska, it can mean no road, no grid, and a mail plane when the weather cooperates. Logistics carry real uncertainty, not just inconvenience. You plan for Plan B, C, and "try again next week."

3. Gear Over Glam

Down south, outfits can be aspirational; up north, they're mission-critical. Waterproof beats fashionable nine days out of ten. A good parka is a love language. No one asks who made your boots—only if they're warm.

2. Weather Isn't Small Talk

Weather in the Lower 48 fills dead air. In Alaska, it determines whether you leave the house, which route you take, and what you pack. Forecasts are action plans, not conversation starters. If you're not looking at wind and temps, you're not actually going.

1. The Scale of the Place

Many Lower 48 folks still picture Alaska tucked near Hawaii on a classroom map. The state can swallow multiple "big" states whole and still have room for glaciers. You can't drive to Juneau from the highway system, and that alone bends brains. Until you feel the scale, the word "huge" just doesn't land.