Sometimes, you just need to go to Texas. Today -- when the weather where I am will make it above 20 degrees F only if the sun explodes -- is a fine day to head to the deep southwest. Today is perfect for a playdate with Redneck Mother Casey Kelly Barton.

We can hang out and watch her chickens and bunnies and dogs romp. Barton and I (and all y'all) can watch nature videos about pistol shrimp. We'll drink sweet tea and jaw about her two boys, one of whom, Hurricanehead, seems to be the kid my youngest will become. And, yes, this fills me with nine kinds of dread. 

Won't it be lovely? I'm gonna go pack my shorts and tank tops now.  

Photo credit: Southwest Veternary Symposium