Fair to Middling - Southernism

I hear this Southernism nearly every time I call my Father and ask how he's doing. "Fair to middling, I reckon," is his exact response.

If you ask a Southerner how they’re doing and they say “fair to middling” what they mean is that they’re doing all right. Not good or bad – just in the middle.

Have you ever heard this phrase? I've heard it mistakenly pronounced "fair to midland." But as far as I know, that means nothing.

Instead of fair to middling, I hope your days are filled with joy and laughter. 💗