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Just for Fun

The savvy, charming and hilarious members of ActiveRain like to let their hair down and have a little fun. Topics take on a whole new life when the creative minds of AR author fun posts. Wordless Wednesdays are a big contributor of this topic along with other posts written for fun. With each of our members' clever wit behind these blog posts, there should definitely be something for everyone to delight in.


Take a moment out from the daily grind to get lost in these entertaining pieces. If you have a funny story or photo you'd like to share with the wonderful world of AR, please do. Just for Fun posts are a great avenue to expressing yourself and sharing your funny bone.

Recent blogs on Just for Fun
By Michael Jacobs, Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393
Closing Thoughts as Another MonthApproaches Its End. . .  Sooner or later, everything old is new again”  attributed to Stephen King January can be special for many reasons. There is something to be said for being first, right?  But along with being placed in the front of most calendars, January is a time when resolutions are made, predictions are forecast, and many sorts of other occurrences can seem both unprecedented yet so typical.  Perhaps it's in the repetitiveness of the yearly scenario that we see the sluggishness of speed. Doesn't that underscore the movement of ordinariness. A contradiction? Maybe, something else. So, here are quotes from some who capture such things much better than this wandering, pondering observer. While they may seem to have little or nothing in common, th...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
One thing about The Villages, Florida there are plenty of gathering you might be invited to attend.  A friend calls and says we are having a get together, you ask what can I bring and many times it is “you can bring an appetizer to share”.  Of course, we want to impress with our selection so here is my top impressive appetizer.Crab Ball, easy to make and always a hit!  I love to cook, bake and create things, I am not a Betty Crocker type so stick with me as I share my recipe.  Start with two blocks of Philadelphia Cream Cheese (buy the good stuff), a pound of crab meat (either the expensive stuff or the cans), celery flakes, garlic powder, and of course Old Bay.  While shopping pickup cocktail sauce, parsley flakes, Ritz crackers and suggest GF crackers maybe Milton brand.In a large bow...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
 Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye.- Helen Keller I'd rather regret the things I've done than regret the things I haven't done.- Lucille Ball I intend to live forever. So far, so good. - Steven Wright Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage. - Anais Nin If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten. - Tony Robbins  Never look back, if Cinderella had looked back instead of chasing her dreams she would never have become a princess. - Will Hamm
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By Wayne Martin, Real Estate Broker - Retired
(Wayne M Martin)
Trivia questions for Wednesday January 22, 20251. Who directed the movie "The Godfather"? Francis Ford Coppola2. What is the universal solvent? Water3. What year gave birth to the word "motel"? 19254. Who painted the Mona Lisa?  Leonardo de VinciTrivia questions for Thursday January 23, 20251. A nonagon is a shape that has how many sides?2. What animal always gives birth to same sex twins?3. George H W Bush served in which branch of the US military?4. What do Noodlers catch with their bare hands?Enjoy your day.
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There's No Baloney in This Post—Just Real Talk and Big Goals! 🚫🍞2025 is here, and it's time to throw out the boring and bring in the big. This year, we're tackling real estate like a double bacon spicy grilled cheese burger with eggs2025 will be loaded, messy, and ridiculously fun. 🧀🥓🍳Think chaos, laughter, and a whole lot of energy. 💥 This is the year to embrace the unexpected and make things happen with gusto. 💪Make sure you stack your life with great habits, not just an atomic burger of chaos, because success is built on the solid foundation of consistency, focus, and meaningful growth.Whether you're diving into the market, exploring new opportunities, or just having fun with the process, 2025 is all about going big or going home. 🏠🚀Ready to make this year unforgettable? Let's do it ...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Exploring the annals of history is always a fascinating journey, offering glimpses into the significance of various dates. Here are a few intriguing historical tidbits to dive into this week.    THIS WEEK IN HISTORY ♦2025: The 47th President, Donald J. Trump, was sworn in on Inauguration Day Jan. 20, 2025♦2011: The regional revolution known as "Arab Spring" begins Jan. 25 in Egypt.♦1999: The first hand transplant surgery is performed Jan. 25 in Louisville, KY.♦1985: On Jan. 24, OJ Simpson is enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.♦1967: A fire kills three U.S. astronauts aboard Apollo I during Jan. 27 launch rehearsals.♦1960: On Jan. 23, the U.S. Navy vessel Trieste dives to a record depth of 35,820 feet.♦1954: The first atomic submarine, Nautilus, launches Jan 21 in Connecticut.♦19...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Every Wednesday we plan to share our most recent visit to the  PHOENIX ZOO. We have been members for seven years, it is the best $169.00 a year we have ever spent.  We hope you enjoy some wonderful photos and stories.  Bill and Pam   Every week we post a featured animal from our visit to the Phoenix Zoo. Subscribe to our page to follow. Bill   YouTube Channel for our Zoo visits   Today we stopped by the Gibbons exhibit. Us early visitors are greeted by the loud screeching noise from the Zoo's two Gibbons.  I swear they are announcing to everyone that it is time for breakfast. Bill    Gibbons are apes in the family Hylobatidae. The family historically contained one genus, but now is split into four extant genera and 20 species. Gibbons live in subtropical and tropical forests from easte...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Every Wednesday we plan to share our most recent visit to the  PHOENIX ZOO. We have been members for seven years, it is the best $169.00 a year we have ever spent.  We hope you enjoy some wonderful photos and stories.  Bill and Pam   Every week we post a featured animal from our visit to the Phoenix Zoo. Subscribe to our page to follow. Bill   YouTube Channel for our Zoo visits   Today we stopped by the Prairie Dog exhibit.    Prairie dogs are herbivorous burrowing rodents native to the grasslands of North America. They are a type of ground squirrel and are found in plains, high plateaus, and montane valleys in North America. There are five species of prairie dogs: black-tailed, white-tailed, Gunnison's, Utah, and Mexican prairie dogs. Prairie dogs have short, coarse fur that is grizzl...
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By Linda Blumenthal, NYS Licenced Real Estate Salesperson, CBR
(631-819-2913)
January 23rd Puzzle - National Pie Day:Enjoy your day!Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal.
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
I don't do this often because it does not happen often. In fact NEVER. but I do feel like a kid again with all the snow. We went out for a walk thru the neighborhood last night as the snow was gently falling.  No traffic except a few folks heading home from work.  It was fun until we had to turn into the wind on the trip back to the house.   This morning the sun is out and the snow will be gone by noon.  I hope.  It was fun while it lasted but then again.  I needed to take a picture because it is really quite an event here in the panhandle of Florida.  
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Fishing in Upstate South Carolina: A Guide to Scenic Lakes and Thrilling CatchesUpstate South Carolina is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering a mix of pristine lakes, winding rivers, and breathtaking mountain views. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this region provides endless opportunities to reel in memorable catches. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best fishing spots, the species you can target, and the rules you need to know to make your trip a success.Top Fishing Destinations in Upstate SC1. Lake JocasseeNestled in the Appalachian foothills, Lake Jocassee is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish species. It’s a prime spot for catching trout, including brown, rainbow, and brook trout. The lake is also home to smallmouth bass and ...
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By Brian England, MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ
(Ambrose Realty Management LLC)
🐈Tango, Trey, and Tom Boy 1-30-25☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email BrianI know that there are many cat lovers in the Rain, so now you can follow the adventures of Tango, Trey, and Tom Boy if you love pictures of cats!  I welcome everyone to share photos of your cats along with your comments.☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian
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By Brian England, MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ
(Ambrose Realty Management LLC)
👩‍Trish's Splash Photography 1-29-25💦For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email BrianI am sure all who follow my blog are familiar with the talents of Trish, especially with a camera in her hand. A few years ago she created a series of photos from photographing drops of water and the splash that they would make. I absolutely loved what came from this and I am sure that everyone else will too, so I wanted to share them in the Rain. If you missed the inaugural post for this series and thus did not get a peek behind the scenes, you can go back and check it out here: 📸Trish's Splash Photography☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
Black Box Pinot NoirIf you enjoy Pinot Noir wines and are seeking a selection with a very reasonable price, you will want to try the Black Box Pinot Noir. The 3 L box is equivalent to four 750 ML bottles of wine and is easy to serve and takes up less shelf space. It is priced at $15.99 at Total Wine and More. I paid $16.99 less a 10% discount at our local Shoppers store in Germantown, Maryland. Product HighlightsCalifornia - Features enticing aromas of strawberry and red cherry with complementary notes of toasty oak. Fresh berry and cocoa flavors lead to a delicate, lingering finish. Water Lily, Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 5883Canon PowerShot G11 Camera, f/4.5, 1/320 sec., ISO-80, 30 mm, No FlashPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
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By Wayne Martin, Real Estate Broker - Retired
(Wayne M Martin)
Trivia question answers for Tuesday January 21, 20251. What flavor is Cointreau? Orange2. What country has trick-or-treating on Easter? Sweden3. Who co-founded Microsoft with Bill Gates? Paul Allen4. Which country invented the sauna? FinlandTrivia questions for Wednesday January 22, 20251. Who directed the movie "The Godfather"?2. What is the universal solvent?3. What year gave birth to the word "motel"?4. Who painted the Mona Lisa? Enjoy your day.
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By Joe Mojica, Your Home Adds Value to You
(Laer Realty Partners Bowen)
The last two dogs from the series, '10 Dog Breeds with Exceptional Memory.'Belgian MalinoisBelgian Malinois are respected for their intelligence and strong memory. Often used in police and military roles, their ability to learn and remember commands is unmatched. This breed is energetic and thrives in active environments.Malinois excel in obedience and agility training, showcasing their mental acuity. Regular exercise and challenges keep them content and engaged. Belgian Malinois form strong bonds with their handlers, offering loyalty and companionship. Their impressive memory and intelligence make them reliable partners in various tasks and roles. Proper training is key to harnessing their full potential.PapillonPapillons are small yet intelligent dogs, known for their remarkable memor...
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By Tamra Lee Ulmer, NRBA ~FORCE~ Over 1000 REO Assets SOLD!
(Arizona Resource Realty)
Warm up with Cowboy Stew! Packed with beef, sausage, beans, and veggies, it’s a hearty, customizable dish perfect for cozy nights and family meals.Ingredients          2 pounds ground beef          4 cans (16 ounces each) baked beans          8 hot dogs, sliced           1/2 cup barbecue sauce           1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheeseDirections In a Dutch oven, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 4-6 minutes or until flavors are blended.   Source: https://www.tasteofhome.com/  
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
When I went to bed Monday night, it was a crisp 31 degrees, and I caught a glimpse of snowflakes and sleet starting to dance in the air. Fast forward to this morning—hello, winter wonderland! I woke up to a frosty 26 degrees and a delicate blanket of snow covering everything.Okay, maybe it was less than an inch (thanks for keeping us grounded, weather folks), but for Austin, that’s a big deal! Schools were closed, a severe weather warning was issued until 6 pm, and everyone went into full "Texas snowstorm mode."By 10 am, the sun decided to join the party, and the great melt began. Tomorrow promises a wild weather rollercoaster with temps starting at 23 degrees and climbing to a sunny 49. Classic Texas, right? Around here, we say, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 10 minutes!”Che...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
Or it could be Cyndi Lauper's voice.There are a few common reasons for a squeak in a home, they are:Door hinges: Easy to fix or just live with. Using a lubricant is cheap and easy but draws dirt and dust to the problem. Our front door squeaks loudly but we let it go as we certainly know when someone has entered out home. Floor boards: NOT easy to fix, especially on a home without a basement or a home with a finished basement. One needs to weigh the annoyance against the cost of fixing this problem.Mice: Fairly easy to fix. A little peanut butter on a traditional mouse trap is what I use. I have had a couple of mice wander onto the glue traps I use to catch insects and spiders and I hate to see this as I don't feel it is a humane way to do away with them. I have never used poisons as tha...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Just before Christmas, a stunning amaryllis found its way into my home. Its first stem boasted four magnificent flowers, each petal a vibrant splash of crimson against the winter gloom. When that first stem eventually withered away, I assumed the floral spectacle was over until the next year. Little did I know, this resilient beauty had other plans.In the middle of January, just when the post-holiday blues threatened to settle in, the amaryllis surprised me once again. A new stem emerged, adorned not with just one or two but with a resplendent cluster of six blossoms. Each flower seemed to symbolize a testament to resilience and hope, blooming defiantly against the chill of winter.These amaryllis bulbs held a special place in our family's traditions. We gifted them to Mom every Mother's...
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