There are times when it’s welcome to be called empty headed. The absence of a constantly beating brain feels rather comforting, doesn’t it?

Unfortunately, these types of moments don’t last very long because the mental flowing resumes in earnest. And you know, I welcome the flooding of thoughts.

Right now, our Old Man River is definitely not suffering from an absence of water. As you may have seen or read, the river is entering a flood stage with the full extent of that event yet to be determined. However, Mother Nature, via the river, is telling us something: “Be careful! I’m still in charge!”

I hear you Mama Nature, and it is my hope we always respect you.

As I write this, it is National Rosé Wine Day. What a nice break for us! We may be flooded with numerous “to do” lists, but let’s take a moment for ourselves. May I suggest a glass of Bogle Rosé? Allow the wine’s crisp freshness to fill your comfort zone, and then, relax.

As we enter summer, many of us are overflowing with vacation plans, summer programs and things that need to be accomplished before the reappearance of Old Man Winter. Sorry about that cold reminder, but we are tough Minnesotans, right?

We want to spend time with our families, and I urge you to make such times a priority. Believe me, time goes by quickly and the availability of such moments can be washed away very quickly. Visit the glory of nature in a park, listen to a concert together, or just walk quietly together. You will be flooded with memories that will last a lifetime. However, do more than just experience such together times. Start a personal journal, and preserve your journey for future folks.

While shopping for some new wines, I came across a bottle of Windemere Pinot Noir. The winery is located in the San Luis Obispo region of California, and the region is filled with wineries for a reason. Darn good wines are made there and Windemere Pinot Noir is a good one. It has a welcoming medium body feel, smooth tastes of red cherries and vanilla followed by a nice dry finish. It’s a memory to be jotted down.

There are many ideas filling my mind right now, but I think it’s time to follow my ninth grade English teacher’s advice: “Be precise and concise in your writing.”

With that in mind, I will flood my head with what kind of a nightcap to enjoy this evening. When this decision is to be made, I am anything but empty headed. Maybe I’ll have some Madeira … or Cream Sherry … or Tawny Port … or Ruby Port … or Sherry…or Marsala … or a bit of Scotch … or a touch of brandy. .. or …

Oops, my old teacher’s voice is flooding me and telling me to stop it! Choose one and be done with it!

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!