Settled for Thrifting and Please Send Rain

Not too long ago my husband was talking about a typewriter (which hopefully still resides at my Mil's house) that types in script.  This automatically induced a huge fit of nostalgia and I decided I wanted a regular manual typewriter, pica preferably but would gladly scoop up an elite font (bringing back any memories yet?).    As I browsed the Internet and drooled over 1930's and above typewriters my son glanced over my shoulder and asked "What the heck do you do with that?".    Off I went to look local.  I  hit the Goodwill stores and other thrift stores.  Nada.  I thought someone has to have one that still works for a not insane price somewhere.  So I hit free cycle, craigslist and the multitudes of local swap, barter and trade boards on the Internet....zilch.  A couple of calls to over priced antique stores didn't turn up anything either but I was offered a couple of electric models.  All the while I am kicking myself for not hanging on to the typewriters that have been in my family.  The hunt is still on!
While looking at books I don't need I picked up a few.  Here are a couple:

The Moosewood Cookbook by Mollie Katzen.  I don't know how I didn't already have this one and Sarah Ban Breathnach's Mrs. Sharp's Traditions, Reviving Victorian Family Celebrations of Comfort & Joy.  Both look promising. 

We have a new resident that lives out back, he comes and goes as he likes, I really do hope it is a he.  He also does not like to have his picture taken and hangs out in the darkest areas of the yard when I am around, so I just aimed,  clicked and I finally caught him, he blends, can you make him out?

Maybe this one is easier:

Now you can see why I hope it is a he. 

Oh yeah, please send rain!