I can’t say I understand the expression “the whole nine yards”. I can get a handle on the whole enchilada (yummy), even the whole kit and kiboodle (it’s a railroad term), but where does the expression the Whole Nine Yards come from? It’s etymology is murky. No one knows exactly where it came from. Likewise, the expression Dressed to the Nines is a puzzle to the etymologists. Its origin, its parentage is unknown. Ditto Cloud Nine. So, what’s up with this nine? Bumba’s hypothesis is that the numeral 9, being the last one, the final word, simply indicates a certain high level of excellence. 9 is premium grade. No better illustrated than by our beloved Marina Kanavaki who has gone the whole nine yards on this one. Thanks, Thanks to Marina!!!
P.S. The Bumbastories staff insists on mentioning that the great and noble American game of baseball is played in 9 innings, by a team of nine. Ted Williams, Minnie Minosa, and Roger Maris wore the number 9 proudly. Thanks again to Marina.
Every Day Another Story 
Love the tribute to 9 … and cheers to your collaboration with Marina!!! … and Marina will attest I get carried away when saluting numbers.
Marina did great! What else is new? “lol” Very interesting blog, Steve.
lol: 😆
At your place it is still the 8th.
Over here though, it’s the ninth for more than 35 minutes now!
Thank YOU for the opportunity to do nines, my friend and I think that Bumba’s hypothesis about a high level of excellence is right! 🙂
You should issue a special edition 9/9 post I have a photo of of the 99 cents store
Oh, I have but where’s the photo?!!!! 😉
A fine and fitting tribute! This noble number has helped me get to sleep more times than I remember, it’s a long story . . . . !
Minnie, Ted and Maris! That’s an impressive crew!
I always just guessed The Whole Nine Yards was a Football thing, but apparently it isn’t…
Me too. Minnie Minosa was a sweet player with a great name btw.
Wasn’t it Minoso? Mimosas do sound delicious though, especially in our dog days of summer here in San Diego. But yes, somehow we haven’t gotten to him on the BoFN yet. In due time!