DAY 2 – Friday Off

Hey, hope it was a great day for you!

I started my day at 2a with insomnia. Stayed up until 4am and then was able to go back to sleep. My last words before falling asleep were “Rudy, please don’t wake me at 6a”. Rudy woke me at 6:45a instead. I knew he wouldn’t let me sleep. That’s okay, I got up and fed him. Then threw on some clothes and headed out for breakfast.

Had Cinnamon French Toast with Strawberry’s, very good. Two ladies were in front of me when it was time to pay and I picked up their breakfast. What a dumb move on my part, because they apparently packed it away. I dropped $50 with a tip, that included my breakfast.

Headed to a bakery shop thinking that I would surprise my Thanksgiving friends with some baked goods. However, the shop was closed. I really wanted this to work out but perhaps another time.

Stopped for gas before going home. Grabbed the trash bin and wheeled it inside the garage. Went inside to greet the cats. Headed out to the front porch to change the batteries in that camera. Blew off the porch and sidewalk. That scared the cats and they went to hide in my room. They both hate the blower. It’s just air, nothing that will harm them. I think it’s more the noise the thing makes.

Sat around watching my favorite judge on You Tube until it was time to leave for my haircut. Got my head shaved seriously short, it’s not down to skin but that would be the next step. I knew I’d be sorry because the itching had already started. I am taking a shower tonight and scrubbing my head good!

Hit up Sam’s Club after my haircut. Got those brownies that I wanted, some soda and a bag of chocolates. There went another $42. It’s way too easy to spend money, no wonder I work for a living!

Came back home, waited until it was time to leave for my big adventure, which was traveling back to the seafood restaurant I went to a few weeks back. Wow, this time I had to go to the bathroom on the way there. I should have listened to the GPS and re-routed to avoid a backup of traffic but, no I was stubborn and thought it wouldn’t be that bad. Spent 18 minutes in bumper-to-bumper traffic with a full bladder. Stupid me, I always pay some price when I don’t listen to the GPS. This isn’t the first time I’ve ignored it. The traffic set me back and it was closer to 5p when I got there. Took me a few minutes to find a place to park. Then walking in there was a line to stand in for tables. Not exactly what I wanted to do with a full bladder but some how I made it. Got seated at the same table I had last time. Different person took care of me. Had the Strawberry Pina Colada it was basically rum (heavy on the rum), pineapple and coconut in a glass. Not worth the $8 I paid for it and I didn’t even finish it. Had stuffed Orange Roughy which was good but the Broiled Orange Roughy I had last time was much better. Got my Au gratin Potatoes but they were tasteless. I had them as a kid growing up and thought they would take me back, I’ve been craving them for a long time, but this was a disappointment. I only spent $4 more than last time and I didn’t have any alcohol last time.

The drive home was much more enjoyable than the drive up because we moved all the way home. I even got to speed – went 100 mph for a short while. My car still has performance and twin turbos help. Don’t worry, I drove the speed limit for most of the way home because I can’t afford to waste gas by driving like I am in the Indy 500 but for the short time I did, it sure was fun. It was a long patch of freeway, and I was breaking away from a pack of traffic. It was fun to watch them disappear in my rear-view mirror. Gas mileage should have been 28mpg, but I got 26mpg from sitting in traffic and then my speed racer impression. All things considered not horrible, but it could have been better.

Stopped for a car wash before I headed home. Perfect timing for that. I just missed a thunderstorm by an hour. Were supposed to have rain all weekend and most of next week. It’s been in the forecast for the past couple days, but it just sprinkles and then the sun comes back out.

Got the dishes washing while I came down to play on the computer, pay a bill, see my personal email and of course surf for porn. Glad that I still have 2 more days before I must go back. Not looking forward to that at all but then again, I never do look forward to going back.

Ah I got one test result back but the rest of them are taking their sweet time. The lab they used this time takes their sweet time so likely tomorrow the results should be available. Not that it’s going to change anything, but I’d like to see how my body is performing.

Not a bad day but I kind of hoped for more fun than I had. I’ve got to get cat food tomorrow and pick up the mail again. Nothing per se planned, other than trying to stay cool and hydrated. No idea of where I want to eat tomorrow but I know I won’t go hungry, which is a good thing!

Talk with you all again soon.

Free at last, if only for 4 days

Good evening!

The work day is done but I still have to get through the evening of being on-call.  Largely that means nothing.  Most things happen during working hours and with picking up California Offices about the time I logoff is when I get a curve ball from out West. 

The boss called me today to tell me that I am getting a 3.5% raise.  It’s average.  I honestly expected 4% but still it is not bad.  Waiting to see how exactly that works out on my paycheck.  Then I will make my decision on if I am going to take it and stuff it into savings after taxes are taken out or if I am going to send it to retirement and not have taxes taken out. 

We continued our conversation about my potential promotion.  He called it a Supervisor position but quickly corrected himself to say Team Leader.  He wanted to know how I felt about it.  I told him I was fine but again I need to know what is expected of me before I commit to taking the position.  He said to give him a month or two and he should have something for me.  The position doesn’t exist, so he has to have it created, money allocated from the budget to fund it and then they start writing a job description.  Wow sounds like the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing.  If you think I am going to commit to a position before I know exactly what your going to try to sneak past me, you are crazy.  I know the job comes with a pay raise but you don’t get extra money and not have to do extra work.  However, to listen to him he framed it to say I am already doing the job just not being paid for it.  Wow, that’s the story of my life.  I carry a lot of weight and contribute heavily to our teams success.  I am not about the team mind set.  I am more about the individual mindset and making sure I get my fair shake even if you frame it as a team effort.  I’d like to ask if the new position could be full time remote but I don’t think that would go over and it might cause unwanted attention either now or in the future.

Thinking about what is probably going to come to fruition made me start looking at vehicles again.  Both new and used.  I know what I want but haven’t gone for a test drive yet.  I am either going towards sport or luxury both are at about the same price point.  I really want to buy now figuring that will give me motivation to go back to the office, like I should already be doing.  However, part of me says keep what you have and don’t change a thing.  Promotion or not eventually I will be getting a different vehicle most likely new rather than used. 

Dinner tonight was a new Chicken with cheese and ranch served over pasta dish from Stouffer’s.  It’s pretty good but could use more ranch. 

Last night I heard the sound that winter is coming.  The cicada’s as the sunset.  They just sounded off again.  I told the cats that is the sound that summer will be over soon and we will move into Fall and eventually Winter.  It’s kind of an annoying sound but eventually you get used to it. 

Speaking of cats, trimmed one claw on Mora’s front paw.  I used the same fingernail trimmer that I would use on my own nails.  She had no idea what it was so she was all relaxed for a brief second.  She was sitting on my chest and kept poking me as she kneaded my chest making her biscuits.  Rudy came around eventually and I got him he had claws on both front paws that needed to be trimmed.  I don’t like braking out or getting stuck. 

Finally, I went in search of porn.  I fell for some click bait from Andrew Goes Places (aka Andrew Neighbors) and joined his OF.  Thinking that he had some spicier content, but it’s kind of the same old thing.  Looks like he might be making a change but only time will tell and I’m only subscribed for a month, then I am done and will walk away.  I know eventually my curiosity will get the best of me and I will probably go back again.  I looked through other guys I subscribed to in the past and almost subscribed to a couple of them but managed to talk myself out of that.  Hey I’m boy crazy and bored, not a great combo.  I guess it’s better than bored and retail therapy I could have done some serious damage there. 

Speaking of money I saw how much this past month cost.  I really see the impact of a vet visit and a new alarm.  That hurt but thankfully I was able to pay cash for all of it and keep on moving.  It made a slight dent in my savings but I am still committed to tucking as much money away as I can.  There is always a rainy day around the corner and it usually happens when you least expect it.  The only blessing for me is that things fells apart (with the alarm and cat) while I was scheduled to be off. 

Well time to wrap thing up, publish this and get ready for bed.  Rudy will be asking for breakfast at the same time even though I am off.  I figure I will get up and eat with them.  Grab a shower and head out to grab the mail.  Taking my time.  Doctor is in the afternoon, looking forward to that but not looking forward to getting stuck with a needle.  Here’s hoping that I can enjoy my time, be productive and have fun before the time slips away. 

Talk with you all again soon.  Hope that you have a great Thursday!

Productive Monday

Hey thanks for stopping by. 

Today was a productive day.  I got the car taken care of.  It needed to have the brake fluid changed, that along with the oil change & filter.  Tires balanced and rotated.  Around $250 and about 3 hours of my time.  It’s solid and got a clean bill of health.  Spark plugs are due at 100,000 miles.  Don’t know if I will have it quite that long but good to know that I can keep on driving it without any concerns.  I’m so addicted to saving the money I would otherwise pay for a vehicle.  I have gotten a decent return on the purchase of the vehicle and it’s serving me well.  It’s a 2017. 

Got the alarm issue all worked out as well.  I called the company this morning and after about 45 minutes on hold and then another 15 minutes on hold to talk to the correct department, everything is taken care of.  The tech also called me and told me that he would be here tomorrow.  He didn’t set the appointment for Monday and told me that he wouldn’t have come out because we discussed the work being done on Tuesday.  It’s all good. 

I’ve medicated Mora a few times now.  She’s not fond of having pills shoved down her throat or liquid squirted in her mouth but she is tolerating it rather well.  I put the cone of shame on her this morning otherwise known as an Elizabethan Collar, she is not happy with it.  It is the only way I can prevent her from licking or otherwise bothering her rear end.  She walked around bumping into things and trying to get the collar off.  Rudy didn’t help and she got mad at him more than once and hissed at him.  I hated to stick the collar on her and then dash out the door but I needed an assurance that she wouldn’t constantly lick or otherwise bother her butt. 

When I came home after the car service she was waiting for me in the living room sitting down.  She normally is right by the door.  I knew she was miserable but she was so happy to see me.  I took the collar off for a bit and she was relieved.  I let her relax and enjoy her freedom.  Passed out lunch and she ate a little bit.

I came downstairs to get laundry started and to watch some porn.  Then I decided to check work emails and needed to tend to a couple things that were time sensitive.  Yeah, I know I had the day off but I almost never totally stop working, unless of course I am sick.  Peeking at emails on vacation helps to lighten the catchup work that I will need to do.  A few hours passed but I got things taken care of. 

Headed back upstairs, put the collar back on Mora.  Was all excited to go for a drive, get some Onion Rings and BBQ.  Turns out the BBQ place I was heading to is actually closed forever.  I asked my Echo before I made the trip.  Imagine traveling an hour all excited only to find the placed closed.  I would have been super upset.  Glad I avoided that.  Instead I went to a local place had a Philly Cheesesteak and some Onion Rings.  Got tied up in traffic, damn near everything around here is under construction.  Eventually I made it home. 

I was never so glad to get home.  My lower back was killing me and my bladder was full.  The pain was like nothing I have had before, it was clearly in my kidneys.  After I went to the bathroom the pain went away.  It was a serious close call I almost didn’t make it home.  Sitting in bumper to bumper traffic didn’t exactly help things. 

Mora was once again happy to see me.  She rolled over to show me her belly.  I rubbed it and gave her lots of attention.  Took the collar off and gave her about an hour to be free of it.  We played a little bit.  She sat in my lap and got brushed.  Her purr motor was on high.  I peeked at her butt and things have dried out a bit, it looks way better, as if it’s healing.  Like time and the medication are working together – to her benefit. 

I almost forgot to mention that I made a trip back to the vet to complain about some of the treatment and things that have been festering for years.  It felt good to get it off my chest.  I talked about Gator and I was overwhelmed and reduced to tears for a bit.  It hurt.  I am over the loss and have accepted her death but it was like a flash back being there.  I made it clear that I wasn’t there to seek money back but kind of felt like Mora got the short end of the stick yesterday and I was talked in to wasting money on the x-ray.  Now that I am home I got progress notes from her exam and it says that I chose to go the medical route and not have them flush her anal gland.  That’s not the case at all I wanted them to flush it but the vet didn’t seem to want to take the time to do that.  I am pissed off all over again but it’s done. 

I’m watching more porn, believe it or not.  I will be headed up soon to get ready for bed.  Give Mora her pain medicine and then we will retire for the evening.  I need to be up early for the alarm install tomorrow. 

Other plans for tomorrow include getting a haircut & shampoo from a place that knows how to do the shampoo right.  Hitting up Sam’s Club and Target.  Then taking a road trip to either discover a new place OR go back to the buffet, either way I will be on the road for at least an hour each way.  It will give the vehicle a bit of a workout, plus hopefully get me some good food.  I need some time to decompress a bit. 

Hope you had a great day.  Talk with you tomorrow.

More fresh hell

What an exhausting and costly day this has been. 

This morning after I came home from the grocery store and we had our nap, I came downstairs to surf on the computer.  Mora jumped on my lap and she has this bad habit of rubbing her butt on my arm.  She doesn’t always do it but it happens more frequently than not.  It happened today and she didn’t leave anything but it smelled really bad.  I took a look and she has an Anal Gland Abscess. 

I made a vet appointment for her thinking that it was this Tuesday, that was the soonest they could get me in.  As we got into the afternoon it looked like things were getting worse.  Something told me to call and check to see if there were any cancellations.  Turns out her appointment was booked for next Tuesday and not this Tuesday.  I got her moved up to this evening at 6p. 

As you might imagine the poor thing is in a lot of pain.  I haven’t seen her actually go to the bathroom but she has tried.  That made me glad that I was taking her over.  It’s a few minutes after 8p and we just got home about 15 minutes ago. 

I hate professional people.  We waited 30 minutes to get to a room and then another 15 minutes before a doctor came in.  Since she (Mora) wouldn’t let me touch her rear end I knew that she wouldn’t be super pleased about the vet poking and prodding.  However, the vet was able to take a look and determine that the abscess has ruptured and is draining.  They took at x-ray at my request to make sure that she didn’t have any stones or wasn’t constipated/impacted.  She has some stool that is in the process of working it’s way out the exit so she should be going to the bathroom eventually. 

She got a shot of a NSAID to help with the inflammation.  They sent her home with a narcotic for pain and I’ve got her first dose on board.  I’ve got more of the NSAID in pill form to give her in the morning.  Then I have to make sure that she eats breakfast and I can give her an Antibiotic.  She’s got 2 weeks worth of the antibiotic.  They want to re-check her in 2 weeks.  However, if she hasn’t made progress in a couple days we will be going back.  Otherwise as long as things progress and she heals I honestly see no reason to go back. 

I booked an appointment for Rudy on Saturday but I am going to be calling and cancelling it, he’s fine and there is no reason to take him over just yet.  I think it would be wasted money. 

Now on to the alarm.  I had this feeling that I should check the appointment to make sure that were on for Tuesday.  I logged in and found that the appointment was scheduled for Monday by the tech.  I told him specifically Tuesday, I said it twice and he confirmed it to me.  However, when he plugged it into his computer he did it for Monday.  I won’t be available because I’m taking the car in and I have no idea how long that visit will take.  I suspect just a couple hours but it could go longer. 

Anyway, I called and was told that they didn’t have any availability on Tuesday and that I would have to wait until Thursday.  The dummy I talked to cancelled the Monday appointment and then tried to book for Tuesday but the system wouldn’t let him.  He transferred me to “scheduling” and they told me that the first open date they had was Thursday.  I asked what I had to do to cancel service.  They said to call back tomorrow as the cancellation department was closed on the weekend.  Needless to say I am quite pissed off. 

I calmed down a little bit, called back and got someone to work with me.  We booked the Thursday appointment just to have something on the book so I don’t get totally blocked this week.  I have to call back in the morning and talk with another department as they should be able to get this fixed.  I also called the tech and left him a voice mail message, asking him to call me back to confirm that we are on for Tuesday.  This is going to be done my way, since it’s my money.  If they can’t accommodate me then I will sever the relationship.  I’ve been a customer for 28 years.  I paid for the install in full which back then was $700.  Then add on to that all of the money I’ve spent over the last 28 years for monitoring.  They have made a bundle off of me.  I really don’t want to lose the low rate I have for monitoring and if I cancel I know that will go away. 

However, I thought about it and while I miss the alarm system and the peace of mind it provides, like I told the tech we have never had any issues or needed to use it.  There have been a couple cooking related “fires” back when my late spouse was the cook.  We have had multiple false alarms because one of us forgot the system was on but I’ve not needed it.  That made me realize I can just walk away from this and save my money if I so choose.  I am not under any contract, nor do I want to be. 

We shall see what tomorrow brings, hopefully not more headaches and tons of money siphoned from my bank account.  However, vacation is always expensive even if you don’t go anywhere.  I can’t wait to get on the road to travel to a restaurant and clear my mind.  If all goes well that will happen tomorrow for supper.   

I’ve done a light cleaning of the house and got the trash out.  Need to still do laundry but there is no hurry it’s not like it’s going to get up and run away.  I am going to head up, hope that we can get a good nights sleep and get up early tomorrow, shower and put on some fresh clothes.  Have breakfast at home and then take the vehicle in for the service appointment.  While I am there I will call the alarm company and see what we can work out or if I am going to wind up walking away. 

I’m not sure why the black cloud that is over me is dealing me so much chaos but it’s like I have had a bit of a break for too long and it’s making up for lost time or so it seems.  I know it can always be worse. 

Talked with my Thanksgiving friends, they like the idea of going out on the 4th, so I am waiting to hear where they would like to go and a time.  I’m not going to push if they call great and if they don’t well then I will go somewhere by myself. 

I do hope that your day was way better than mine.  Damn I hope that things get better soon.  Take care and I will talk with you again soon. 

Alarm Results

Greetings,

Hope that you’re doing well and enjoying the weekend!

The tech came for the alarm system, I had to pay a trip charge, but his labor was waived. It was a 15-minute visit. He confirmed what I pretty much knew already. The keypad is fried and I need a new system. It’s an upgrade, most of the hardware can be re-used but a couple pieces must be replaced. I will get a touch screen keypad and can control the system from my phone. The cost with a discount on my account brings it to close to $1 thousand dollars. It will take 2 hours to install, and the work is scheduled for Tuesday. I will have to pay the full cost when the job is done but my low-price monitoring rate of $6 will remain in place since I’m not signing a new contract. The system uses cellular and WIFI to communicate, as I suspected. Therefore, there is no need for a home phone. My home phone is under contract since it’s bundled with my TV.

I like the old-fashioned home phone even though it’s not a copper line anymore and it’s VOIP. There is just something about it that I honestly don’t want to part ways with, but I will have the option when the contract is up next year.

While I really didn’t want the alarm system to fry, I am hopeful that it’s my largest expense on this “vacation” that I am on. I am hoping for a clean bill of health for the vehicle. I will find out the results of that on Monday when I take it in. I like it and keeping it, a bit longer will permit me to continue to save money so that I can be in even better shape when it’s time to buy. The plan was to trade in September no matter what, but I am really addicted to saving money. I like seeing my bank balance rise which beats seeing a credit card balance rise.

I took time off from work because I needed a break. I didn’t need extra problems; life has given me plenty thus far.

Wanted some human companionship so I talked to my Thanksgiving friends, and he joined me for supper, she wasn’t feeling up to it. That’s when I found out that they aren’t going to be doing anything for the 4^th of July. He’s got prostate cancer and the treatment is wiping him out. He looks like life is draining out of him, kind of like my late spouse looked when he went through chemo & radiation. My friend only must go through radiation, and it starts on Monday. They started him on two pills, one of which is a testosterone blocker and the other is Estrogen. I made the offer that we could go out on the 4^th if they wanted, I’m waiting for an answer on that. Not sure that they will take me up on it but time will tell. Sounds like our gatherings outside of Thanksgiving might be stopping for a while. The folks are old he’s in his 70’s and she is in her 80’s. I know they aren’t going to last forever but I am kind of hoping for a couple more good years. When one dies, I think the other will follow in short order. I don’t relish losing them even though they haven’t exactly been the best of friends.

Got the mail, hit up the bank and got a 2^nd breakfast this morning. It felt good to get out and check some things off my list. It also feels good not to have to rush to conform to my usual weekend routine. I am not doing laundry now as I normally would be. I plan to work on that tomorrow. Cats need food but I might get that tomorrow if not then for sure on Monday. They have a few cans left so I’m good for a short time. However, I don’t like pushing things to the absolute limit.

Hopefully, I will feel better as the week progresses. One I know about the car and the alarm install is behind me then I will exhale and I think that’s when things will get better.

Well off to surf for porn, cuddle with the cats and eventually prepare for tomorrow. Plan to get up early, have breakfast and hit up the grocery store and Target. BBQ for supper tomorrow night, wanted that tonight but I had Olive Garden instead.

Stay tuned and we can both see how things turn out with the car, the alarm and the rest of my time off. I know that time off always flies by quickly. Shame that’s not true for the work week.

Take care!

Friday

Hi

It was so nice to be able to sleep in this morning.  Sadly I woke up at 6a and passed out breakfast for the cats.  My body has an auto alarm clock.  I sat around watched TV and tried to fall back to sleep.  Eventually I wound up getting up and eating some breakfast.  Then watching TV and I finally was able to fall back to sleep.

We had a medical call and a fire call several houses down the street, they were back to back calls.  The medical call was a person having a seizure and their neighbor smelled natural gas.  What are the odds of two back to back calls like that?  Fire Department was down that way earlier this week because of a Carbon Monoxide Detector going off.

Being on call I got a couple emails that had me reaching for my phone, nothing for me to be concerned with.  Just file them away and call it a day.  I like the fact that it’s a longer weekend but being on-call kind of sucks!  Perhaps I will remember that later this year when I make out the schedule. 

The cats are having a ball hanging around me.  I get followed around the house.  Someone always wants to snuggle or curl up next to me.  It’s kind of nice.  Not the same as a person but still nice to know that something loves me. 

Feeling a bit blue I decided to phone a friend to see if we could get together for supper but I got voice mail.  Didn’t bother to leave a message.  Just took it as a sign it wasn’t meant to be. 

Went outside this afternoon to fetch the trash bin.  I got the weed whacker out and took care of some crab grass growing by the garage.  Then headed to the deck where I had several things growing.  I whacked them all.  Noticed that the tree that I share on the property line with my neighbor (who has moved out) had a large section fall on the neighbors side.  I never heard a thing.  That tree has Gall and while there are still leaves on it, you can clearly see it’s dying.  It’s going to either fall or be taken down.  That just reminded me while I am a little overwhelmed about my current problems, it can always be much worse.  It kind of did get a little worse for me.  More on that in a moment. 

I had the great idea of going out for supper.  However after using the weed whacker even though it was just for a few brief moments it was enough to stress my back muscles and I had the shakes.  It took two hands to get a drink.  That’s when I knew there was no way I was going out to eat.  I got a shower and felt better but still had slight shakes.  I certainly could have gone out but I think that I would have had people staring at me and would have been a spectacle and don’t like being the center of attention like that.  Stayed home and had frozen lasagna.  It was just okay, not as good as it usually is.  I also wanted some cheese garlic bread to go with it and didn’t have that.      

Speaking of worse.  Last night I got out a screw driver and took the keypad for the alarm apart, I broke two plastic teeth that anchored it in place at the bottom.  Now it won’t go flush.  However, I saw a yellow blinking light and a switch that apparently resets the keypad.  I pressed it and sadly it does nothing.  However, based on the testing I did every component of the alarm system has power so I don’t believe the system it’s self is bad, I think the keypad went out.  Now hopefully the tech that comes tomorrow can replace the keypad perhaps not tomorrow but next week presuming they can still get the parts.  The system is quite old.  I just want my alarm back.  It’s my security blanket.  It also helps when I am away to know that if something went wrong that police or fire would come.  Right now I hate to leave for any reason, I just worry that something will go wrong.  It’s been a few days with no alarm and nothing bad has happened and probably won’t but it would be better to have the peace of mind.

My plan now is to wake up early tomorrow and grab breakfast, get the mail and if it’s early enough stop by the bank to get some cash.  I’ve got a couple places that I’d like to eat at this week and it helps to take cash when you don’t know for sure if they accept plastic aka credit/debit cards. 

Then I will sit here and wait for the technician. Hope and pray that they can fix this alarm system in one visit and within an hour and then I am back in business.  Regardless, when they are done (system fixed or not) I plan on leaving to grab some supper.  Then just have to make it thru Sunday before my next big hold my breath moment of seeing how the vehicle is doing.  I have been looking and it’s kind of tempting to ditch service and just go for something new.  However, I know that I am doing better service to myself and my bank account by waiting.  I don’t expect a bad report but it’s the not knowing that causes the anxiety. 

Once I get past Monday, Tuesday thru Thursday are totally wide open and free.  I’d like to get the deck cleaned off and take a couple of local trips to eat.  I need to make a Sam’s Club run as well as a trip to the Home Improvement Store.  That’s it.  Friday I’ve got my facial at a new place that I am looking forward to.  Here’s hoping that this time off isn’t terribly expensive and that I can actually enjoy myself and have some fun before I have to go back to work.

Hope you had a great day and have a nice weekend.  If it’s applicable to you, Happy early Father’s Day!  Take care. 

Awesome Pizza–No Guys

Morning … I had an awesome pizza.  Full of flavor and baked to perfection.  Only one problem no cute guys to look at.  Perhaps they hang out there on Saturdays so when I go back I will try to remember to go on a Saturday just to see if that changes anything. 

Ride was nice both ways.  Went through the city and took the long way because of construction.  Took a detour and got on the freeway past the construction for my ride home.  Sun was out and it was a beautiful day. 

Gathered my list of contractors to call about the column on my front porch.  Plan to start calling later on today to see if I can’t get folks out here for estimates and start that wonderful process over again.  I’d really like to put this behind me. 

Got my bug spraying done yesterday.  Then came in to pass some time before I went for pizza.  Rudy was a cuddle bug. 

Insomnia flared up again this time at 3a.  I took some Melatonin in addition to my sleeping pill.  It really got me knocked out but sadly didn’t do anything to help keep me asleep.  Sat up for 45 minutes watching TV before I climbed back into bed.  Mora cuddle up with me and I was out for a bit.  Woke up a bit later confused on what day it was but managed to go back to sleep.  Had some strange dreams and then just before 7a my body woke me up.  Rudy was all cuddled up next to me sleeping and I woke him up for a change.  He was quick to rise and start his biscuit dance. 

I’m on-call this week and not looking forward to that but it comes with the job.  Glad that it’s only a 4 day work week but there will be windows patching over the weekend which means I will need to get up early on Sunday.  Then perhaps I will be able to start my vacation and break free from work.  However, I don’t plan on turning work email off until very late in the evening on Sunday if not first thing on Monday morning. 

Speaking of work one meeting on the books that I honestly don’t think I need to be at but my presence was requested.  Outside of that just watching for things to squash for the rest of the day.  More meetings on Tuesday & Wednesday.  No word yet on a pay raise but I’m hoping that comes this week. 

Next Monday is the big car checkup, that is if I can resist my new car fever a bit longer.  Been busy on YouTube watching videos of vehicles and really wanting to take something out for a test drive.  I will always drive something before I buy it but the drive is usually what causes me to either fall in love with the vehicle but it has kept me from buying some models before.  Usually I think of the test drive as what seals the deal.  I am eager to go for a test drive but not until I am ready to fully commit to the purchase.  I’m also afraid that after I make a large purchase something else will go wrong either at home or more likely that my job will go sideways.  Always had that fear as well when making a large purchase.  It’s never come to fruition but call me gun shy. 

Time to go climb the stairs and head up for the day to be with the cats.  It’s a nice sunshine day here and cool out.  That helps with my mood but still I’d like to work in a short nap to make the day even brighter.  That’s what happens when my insomnia flares.  My hope is that I will be able to ditch it when I am on vacation and go back to a normal sleep schedule. 

Hope we all have a good day.  Take care! 

 

The weekend

Hey thanks for dropping in. 

Friday … proved to be a day that I would talk on the phone for hours to the mistake maker.  We talked work and then just socialized.  It was enjoyable but by the end of the day I think we were both tired of talking.  He agreed with me that we are back office people.  Yet we are still mandated to come in 3 days a week.  The mistake maker confessed to me that he was only in 2 days this week.  I told him that I honestly didn’t care.  While I didn’t say this it’s because I am breaking the rules and have been for quite sometime.  Unless each of our offices gets a snitch to check up and report on us, I anticipate that we can still get away with whatever we want.  At least I am going to keep doing my same thing as no one is complaining. 

By bed time I was super horny and eager to get off.  However by the time I settled down my energy level dropped drastically.  I still tried but there just wasn’t enough stamina and strength left in me to pull it off.  So I gave up and watched TV.  Before I knew it I was falling asleep in my chair.  That’s when I got up and climbed into bed. 

Saturday … woke up at 4a from a dream that I was going into the office and forgot my cardkey.  I was talking to a security guard and I knew I was talking out loud in my sleep I heard myself as I was waking up.  Rudy was puzzled by it.  He wasn’t on top of me so I was able to get out of bed quickly.  Headed to the bathroom and then came back to bed.  Tried to fall back asleep but I couldn’t so I got up.  Rudy started his happy breakfast dance but I told him he had to wait a few more hours.  I think I was up for around an hour.  He let me sleep in until close to 7a.  At which time I got up and passed out breakfast for the cats.  Then went back to watching TV. 

Eventually went back to bed for a few more hours.  Then got up and had breakfast and my medicine.  Then headed back to rotting in my room where I did manage to accomplish the task I wanted to last night and that helped me fall back to sleep. 

Watched several videos of people caught on camera doing dumb things like falling, leaving their cars in gear and getting out.  Then changed over to the same thing but camping accidents.  Rafts capsizing, people falling into water, dealing with wildlife.  It was enjoyable and passes time rather quickly. 

Took some time to look at vehicles on the internet, all new.  Found a couple that look really nice and are tempting.  I just really don’t want to jump back into car payments.  Patients is my friend here I need to find out if there are any major concerns with my current automobile.  Provided all is well keeping it longer makes sense.  If it’s time to pour in some money well then I might have a decision to make.  My new car fever is and has always been itching away, it flares up often.  Which is understandable considering that I’m technically due for a new auto.

I got going in the early afternoon with a shower.  Then started laundry.  Finally headed out to a new restaurant that just opened this weekend.  It was a familiar place that I had been to before there were several restaurants in this same location.  While it was nice to be in a familiar location the food sucked.  I ordered Sloppy Joes which I don’t know how they made them but they didn’t taste like Sloppy Joes to me.  The French Fries were the best part of the meal.  I had a side of Cole Slaw as well but it wasn’t from KFC so it wasn’t good at all.  Disappointed with the 45 minutes I traveled to eat the food and the 45 minutes I had to ride to get back home.  It was nice exercise for the vehicle, just logged 80 thousand miles.  I might go back again in a while but will order something different.  Parking was super tight but I backed into a spot with ease. 

Working on going through the mail and finishing up on laundry.  Took care of finances and waded through some personal email.  Now it’s time to surf for porn as I wait for the dryer to sound off.  Then it will be upstairs to play with Rudy as I put the laundry away. 

Hope the weekend is going well for you. 

Productive Saturday

Happy Saturday!

Unfortunately, I had another insomnia attack after I got to sleep.  Was up for a couple hours watching TV before I was able to go back to bed and sleep.  Mora being the cuddle bug she is snuggled up to me and helped lull me back to sleep.  Just as I was about to drift off she decided to leave and that woke me up but after that I was back sleeping. 

Woke up early because that’s how my body is wired and also I’ve got Rudy who wants his breakfast.  Everyone got something to eat.  I showered the night before so I just threw on some clothes and headed out. 

Got my haircut.  Went to my friends shop.  The main guy I have a stronger friendship with is on vacation.  I chatted it up in the office for a bit and then headed out.  No sense in wasting a perfectly good day. 

Came home, had to use the bathroom.  Typed up what I wanted done to my vehicle for service which I took directly from the Manufacturers Maintenance schedule.  I left off changing the cabin air filter because that was just done a while back.  Oddly enough that is super labor intensive.  You put in a $6 filter but spend $100 on labor.  Then it was time to head out again. 

Hit up the UPS store, dropped off my defective blower.  The replacement arrived yesterday.  Next up Post Office then on to the shop where I got my tires at.  They do auto repair work and I trust them a bit more than my friends mechanic who missed the fact that I had a broken tie rod last time.  Anyway, I turned in the laundry list picked the Monday of my vacation and I’m on the list for first thing.  I plan to live there that day.  It’s going to be hours and it’s going to suck, not in the good pleasurable way either.  I told them I have new car fever and as long as they can tell me my vehicle is sound and doesn’t need any major repairs I will likely keep it to stay away from car payments.  At least that is the plan as of now.  Who knows if that will change down the road.  Part of me just wants to go hit up a car dealer and just buy a new one to be done with it.  I’ve also scheduled a Facial for the end of the week.  It’s at a new place.  I’m excited and figured saving it for the end of the week would be smart in case there were any complications with the car or I wanted to get a new one.  Leaving the rest of that week open for now.

Anyway, back on the road and stopped at Sam’s Club.  Got me a new membership card.  That should solve my problem at the pump as well as when I go to the store.  Kind of happy to get this done. 

Back home to cool off, relax and nap.  Then several hours later, I headed out for a bite to eat.  Decided I’d go back to the place where I had my birthday dinner last year.  It’s been a while since I have been there.  Normally I order from the specials but this time I decided to try the BBQ Peppered Pork Tenderloin.  It was good but way on the salty side.  I got a decent amount of it down for the money I spent.  Kind of sad that I didn’t fully enjoy the meal.  Had a dinner companion.  I sat with a stuffed bear.  Needless to say he didn’t say a word.  It would be funny if there was a hidden camera in that, they would get some great footage. 

On the way back home I talked myself into hitting up the Frozen Custard shop.  Me and my late spouse used to go there all the time but, it lost it’s appeal with me.  It’s still delicious as ever and people flock to that place.  They added a drive thru and people line up and sit and wait in their hot cars.  Not me, I parked and walked up to the window.  Got some Peaches and Custard in a small dish.  It took me back years and was fun.  I ate it outdoors as it was melting as soon as they handed it to me.  It’s quite humid out here. 

Then came home.  I still need to get cat food but figured I would put it off until tomorrow.  My bladder was about to explode from all of the soda and water I drank. 

Passed out supper for the cats and I’m doing laundry.  Playing on the computer.  I’m quite pleased with my progress today. 

Last night I saw the movie Wasteman with Tom Blythe.  Several good chest shots of him as well as ass shots.  There is full frontal nudity but it’s brief.  He’s all tatted up in this movie but not in real life.  The movie held my interest and I was quite surprised by the ending.  I’ve got a mad crush on him. The movie was on Prime, it’s $5 to watch.  I got to see it for free by using Amazon points. 

Well off to scour the web.  Hope you had a great Saturday as well!

The Load

Morning!

We once again have made it to another Friday, which is a very good thing!  It’s been a super short week for me, only working 2 and a half days. 

I know I have been lacking in posting photos so I dumped a huge load and for those of you that are here to see them, hopefully they were a welcome site. 

Had one of my sleepless nights last night.  Woke up at 2a and didn’t get back to bed until 4a.  Mora helped me by sitting with me and cuddling in bed.  The cuddle is what sends me off and I’m pretty sure she knows that. 

Rudy wanted to get up way too early this morning but I kept him at bay until 6:30a which is still 30 minutes too early.  He’s got his schedule and wants to keep it.  He got his claws trimmed last night and only a minor struggle but he let me take care of those sharp nails.  Mora just watched as if to say, your not doing that to me.  I told her yeah I am but maybe not tonight. 

Summer weather is here for the most part.  It’s in the upper 70’s and 80’s only a matter of time before we climb higher.  Sadly more rain is on the way and now for multiple reasons I dislike rainy days. 

I’m all by myself at work which is fine since right now there isn’t anything going on.  Yesterday had it’s up’s and downs.  I’m caught up and dug out of the hole I was in by being out a couple days.

Need to take the car in for an oil change and to have things looked over.  I want to take some time and am toying with taking sometime in the next few weeks.  I want to take a week but who knows I might widdle that down.  I don’t really have any plans per se other than the vehicle and perhaps a Sam’s Club run.  Found a new place to get a facial that I’d like to try but haven’t looked to see if I can get in.  I kind of feel bad about taking time so soon after being sick but at the end of the day it’s my time and I know I am encouraged to use it.  Because if I don’t use it I will loose it and there is no pay out it just disappears like money from a bank account. 

Speaking of bank accounts, that new account I opened last week will be coming up ready to pay out it’s first interest.  My money is on hold until late next week, which is fine it’s not like I need to use it.  I was smart and didn’t put all my eggs into one basket.  I found out that checks and debit cards aren’t issued automatically, you have to request them.  Until my money is available I can’t do much of anything.  Just based on the advantages this account offers I can see why and how it can replace a traditional checking account.  I’m just after the interest to see my money grow even more than it has already. 

For some reason I went looking for something on the computer and stumbled across a bunch of old photos of my family (my late spouse and the prior cat family).  Kind of made me sad.  I still miss them.  I see photos of them every day when I look at my photos on my phone and memories from years past.  I knew that some day all I would have is photos but I never thought that in the end once the cats were all gone that it would be just me.  Very interesting how that all worked out.  Way too many tears and much sadness but yet here I am.  I often wonder why. 

Need to get the trash out today.  Having a holiday on a Monday messes up the entire week and all week long I wonder what day of the week it is.  Some of my neighbors reacted and just set the trash out last night so they didn’t get missed in case the pickup happened today.  I looked on the internet to make sure it was a holiday that the trash folks observed so I know pick up is delayed by one day.  I don’t want to miss the actual pickup. 

Kind of bored right now but I will have some work coming at the top of the hour.  Then for sure I know at the close of business and a few hours after.  Today is going to be a very long work day for me.  Most of it will probably be me sitting around waiting for things to roll in but I’m okay with it.  Gives me time to rest and watch some TV.  Hopefully my favorite judge will be on, it’s Landlord Tennant Day and for some reason I love watching those proceedings much more than a Criminal proceedings. 

Hope you have an awesome day and weekend.  Talk with you all again soon!

Lazy but productive

Happy Saturday! I hope that your weekend is going well. Mine is thus far. Rudy woke me up at 6am. I told him last night I didn’t need an early morning wake up call, but I guess his stomach didn’t understand that. I got up and fed him & his sister. Then I climbed back into bed. Watched a little TV and eventually went back to sleep. Woke up around 9a which was kind of a surprise.

I had breakfast at home. I wanted to go see my friend at his shop, but I’ve continued to procrastinate and put that off. I could have got a shower and made it out there with plenty of time to spare. It’s just that once we get to talking, I tend to stay until they close at noon and really wasn’t in the mood to be there quite that long. Instead, I came back to my room and watched TV, eventually returning to bed for a quick nap and cuddle session with the cats.

Once I got up, I passed out lunch for the cats. I had a Coke Zero finished off some Chocolates I had and called it lunch. Back to watching TV and peeking at my phone, nothing was going on, which is good news.

I set a goal to finish the episode of The Neighborhood I was watching and watch one more, then I would get moving. I stuck to the plan. Got my shower and dressed up. Made my plan to grab the mail first, gas up (which was seriously pricy $5 per gallon) and then hit up Lowe’s. Purchased 2 bags of sand and 3 bags of drainage rock. Came home, opened the drainage rock and filled the big hole with that. It’s nice. Hopefully, the critters let it be and don’t dig it out! I saw a smaller hole and filled that with a bag of sand. Dumped the last bag of rock out front in a landscaping bed, where my problem gutter always seems to clog and overflow, despite having a gutter guard in place. Put one bag of sand I had in the garage because I know the critters will dig right through that.

Peeking at my neighbor’s place, he came back to mow the grass the day after the U-Haul’s left. No one came to set the trash out which is overflowing and it’s only a matter of time before the Raccoons discover it and start making a mess. There has been no activity, and all the kids’ toys are still sitting outside. I see a TV on their enclosed deck is still on the wall, so I wonder if they are coming back to grab leftovers or if they are just going to leave it is for now. I suppose as time moves on the picture will paint it’s self and they will either come back pick up the leftovers and do some outside work before they put the place on the market or they will come back and continue to occupy the place. Selling points are new windows, new roof and new ac/furnace. I’m sure they made some improvements inside. The enclosed deck is a nice touch. I just hope if they sell that I get along with whomever moves in next and they kick in some money when it comes time to maintain or chop down the shared tree we have.

I took a minute to catch my breath and then I left and headed for the buffet that I was seriously craving. An hour and 15 minutes later I arrived, despite one wrong turn. This time before I blindly ordered the buffet, I walked through the buffet, and it didn’t look that good. I ordered off the menu for the first time. I got a Horseshoe which is 3 burgers on Texas Toast served open face, then topped with two kinds of cheese (queso (white) and yellow (cheddar)), then French fries and finally topped with chili. It was so good and I was so full when I left. It was a little on the salty side but wow, so good. Had one piece of guy candy that I was eyeing; he was straight looked like he was waiting for his girl to show up and having dinner with his parents. Jeez, I wished I was that girl, he was so hot!

Made the drive back home. My new car fever has flared up again and now I am even considering buying something that is used, which would save me some money. However, my preference is brand new. Looks like whatever I get will need to be a 2026 because come 2027 there are mandatory government monitoring features that will be on all new vehicles. The car will watch you with AI and if it decides you are drunk, drowsy or otherwise impaired it will shut down and you won’t be able to start it. No idea on how long it will stay disabled as those details have yet to leak. The way it’s sounding is that the vehicle will be disabled for a while. There is no override. If you’re traveling the vehicle will pull over and then shut off. There are other government features coming as well but that monitoring one is the most concerning. Hopefully, more information comes out later this year otherwise what I get will be 2026 or earlier.

Thinking about work, Friday was a hellish day. There will be plenty for me to do next week and I will be the only guy working since the other two will be out. Not sure why my boss let the mistake maker go when he knew that the new guy was out. In any case, I will survive it’s what I do. I won’t enjoy it one bit but fear not I have plenty of time off and plan to schedule some next month. I’m supposed to hear more about the promotion I am being considered for, nothing is in the books, but I listened to my review, and my boss clearly says that he will schedule something for us so I can get more info. I want a clear understanding and documentation in writing about what I’d be stepping into before I step into it, and they make things up and change them leaving me stuck. I don’t plan to fall into that type of trap. Boss man is out next Thursday & Friday so at least I will have 2 days of peace and quiet or so I hope. I will also be on call all next week, oh joy!

I’m working on laundry, paying my bills and updating finances. Surfed the web to catchup on porn and waded through my inbox and did some serious cleanup. Waiting for the dryer to tell me my laundry is done then it will be upstairs and time to get ready for tomorrow. I will be up early, heading to breakfast and the grocery store.

Thinking about driving to the office tomorrow to check on something, not sure if that will happen or if I will just let things be. I’ve got nowhere to go other than figuring out what I want to eat. There is a new place by the office, I looked at their menu online and its mostly finger foods and tons of alcohol, none of which I am into so I’m passing on that place. There are other places nearby that are within walking distance. Ah, there is the buzzer time to get moving.

There you have it another DITLO (Day In The Life Of) me. Thanks for stopping by!

Sunday

Happy Sunday!

Hope that your having fun and enjoying the day.  I got started early with breakfast out.  Then my usual trip to the grocery store and gas station.  Then home to unload and relax.  Got in a nice but short nap.  Then got up and started cleaning the house.  Watched a little TV with the cats for a bit. 

The idea sparked that I should make my trip to the office early just to get it out of the way.  I did that and was disappointed.  There wasn’t anything on my desk.  Normally for Admin. Professionals week the company passes out something.  Last year I got a pack of gum and an energy bar.  Ah well.  Everything pretty much looks the same I ventured off into areas I haven’t visited in a year at least.  That was fun.  Unless something changes I’m done until next month. 

Each time I visit I think about how I used to make that trip each day without question for 5 days a week.  The crazy ass drivers who think it’s the Indy 500 passing me up and weaving in and out of traffic.  You really have to be on your toes, even on the weekend.  I don’t miss the travel or the office.  Happy to work from home with the cats.  I do get cabin fever but getting out on the weekends is usually enough to cure or calm that. 

Hit up the cat food store on the way back home.  The cashier asked me if my kids asked for anything crazy for Christmas.  Just because I commented about how long the receipt was.  I said no kids, just cats.  Nice to be mistaken for a straight person who had kids.  It was flattering to me. 

Finances are all updated, cat food put away.  I’ve cuddled with each of the cats.  Need to grab the laundry and head up to put it away.  Making one more trip out to a local Mexican place that I have a craving for.  It’s much closer to home than the usual place I visit.  Then I am done with running/travel.  That is until next weekend or so I hope. 

It’s going to be an interesting week ahead.  Monday thru Thursday is the last time it will just be me and the mistake maker.  Friday the new guy joins and that will cause me to work late on Thursday to make sure he gets account rights so he can preform.  No word on training schedules yet but I’m sure the boss will come up with something.  Not looking forward to that but I’ve done it twice before, what’s one more time.  Hopefully, this guy pays attention and doesn’t cause me hours of work like the mistake maker has.

Talk with you all again soon.  Stay safe. 

Simple Saturday

 Howdy!

I had my usual insomnia that seems to occur every Friday night.  Which always seems to wreck my plans for Saturday.  I was up for about an hour.  Mora came and cuddled with me, that did the trick to get me back to sleep.  What a smart girl she is!

Woke up at 7:17a with Rudy making his biscuits, at least he let me sleep in a little bit.  I got up and fed him, then came back to bed.  Watched TV and knew that I would fall asleep again, which happened. 

I got up around 10a and had breakfast at home.  Then went back to my room to watch TV and when the sugar coma kicked in I was back asleep.  I didn’t get up and moving until 1:30p.  It was quite nice being lazy.  I turned my phone off and that gave me comfort that no one could reach me or bother me.  Just Rudy & Mora.

When I turned the phone on I had some email both personal and work.  Filed the work stuff to deal with on Monday.  Read the personal email and then got a shower.  Passed out lunch for the cats. 

Then I got on the road.  Opted to visit the original buffet that I now rarely visit because quality has gone down and prices have gone up.  I figured it’s been a while and knew that it would be a nice drive plus the vehicle needed some exercise.  It’s an hour and a half each way.  I got 30.2 miles per gallon, which is incredibly good for an SUV.  I used cruise control a lot, which always helps to get me better gas mileage. 

This visit the fountain soda tasted odd, some foods were hot and others were cold.  This place always used to be spot on making sure that everything was just the right temperature.  I only got 1 piece of fried chicken because it was the only leg they had and that’s my favorite piece to eat.  The rest were breasts.  Kind of glad because the chicken was cold.  I didn’t eat a whole lot but stocked up on desert which was bread pudding. 

When it came time to pay the bill my stomach told me that I needed to use the restroom.  It was filthy in all the wrong ways.  Feces smeared all over the inside of the stall.  I didn’t dare sit down, took care of things and washed my hands.  Got the bill paid and got back on the road home. 

Stopped to grab mail and the length of the drive was catching up to me.  I was tired so instead of going to the cat food store I opted to come home.  I’ve got tomorrow to grab cat food and visit the office to check on what’s on my desk.  I kind of wanted to knock all of the running out today but I think it’s much better to split it up and be safe.  No sense in taking a chance in falling asleep behind the wheel. 

I’ve put off doing the dishes so I need to head up and load the dishwasher, plus the cats need to be brushed and it’s claw trimming time.  Rudy tore up my arm and part of my chest so that’s how I know it’s time.  Neither of them will be a fan of the claw trimming and I don’t like doing it either but it’s necessary so I don’t look like I have chicken pox and I can preserve my skin.  I’m clearly allergic to whatever it is they have on their claws and it’s no fun trying to ignore scratching something that itches like crazy. 

Hope you had a great day!  Looking forward to Breakfast and scratching more things off of my to do list.  Take care.

Home Repair

Friday didn’t turn out to be a horrible day but things really picked up in the afternoon.  I talked with a colleague that I have a crush on who I fully expect to get the open slot we have on our team.  Then he had to call me later in the evening since I am on call for our team.  It was a simple thing that we were able to sort out.  We talked more yesterday than we ever have.  It was highly enjoyable. On call kept me a little busy as there was a couple other things that came up earlier in the evening. 

Some how I did it again and fell asleep while watching The Pitt.  That made me mad but it was easy enough to queue up and start from the half way point where I left off at.  Did that earlier this afternoon. 

This morning I was able to check all the boxes on what I wanted to do.  I got breakfast at IHOP, it was okay but service still sucks.  Saw a couple hot guys there.  I almost pulled my little ‘magic trick’ and paid one guys bill and then planned to ask him on a date but he got the waitresses attention before I could so I let it go.  I had no idea if he was gay.  We exchanged a couple glances but they were innocent enough.  He was all alone as was I and I kind of read into the situation.  I got out of breakfast and was late to my haircut. 

I phoned the barbershop and it all worked out.  I was able to take my time and get there without having to break any traffic laws.  My haircut went by super fast, I had just sat down and bam I was climbing out of the chair and done.  Normally it feels like it takes a little longer. 

Went out to my friends shop.  Chatted them up and learned a few things about tires and automobiles.  Every trip there I always manage to learn something.  It’s like a trip to the library.  Not everything I learn there is useful but still I walk away with more knowledge than when I walked in the door. 

Came home and I was tired.  I wanted a nap but knew that if I fell asleep I’d sleep right through the appointment with the contractor that was coming out.  So I fought through it and stayed awake. 

This guy was super nice and quite easy to chat with.  Apparently a lady close by had him out bidding on the same post or roof brace.  He told me that if the post was to go that the roof wouldn’t fall in right away, it would eventually wind up sagging.  He’s going to get me a quote in a couple days.  He said that it’s an hour to an hour and a half worth of work. 

We chatted about the driveway next just to get an opinion.  Repair work he guessed by another company that does that sort of thing would cost me $3,500.  He told me that ballpark a new drive way would cost between $12 and $15 thousand dollars.  He told me that based on the evidence that the break was recent.  Did you have a large truck in your driveway?  Yeah, the yard work guy last week.  That’s probably what did it.  I have other cracks in the driveway and it’s sunk up by the garage a little bit.  Driveways are poured poorly and new home builders are in a hurry so they do the best they can but they rush the process.  Thus cracking.  It’s not something that needs attention right way but eventually yeah it’s going to need to either be fixed and then long term probably replaced, not exactly what I wanted to hear. 

Moving on to the roof.  He saw the 3 shingles with abnormal wear and said that was the fiberglass in the shingle showing.  The roof is more than at it’s half life and I will need a new roof in the next few years.  The best thing for me is to pray for a hail storm to beat the shit out of it and then insurance will cover it.  Otherwise, it will all be out of my pocket and roof prices as well as the shingles have changed since I had my last roof put on.  There are 3 nails that are wearing through some shingles and that needs immediate attention, there is some goop they put on that essentially when it dries is like putting a shingle on top.  The lead boot on the vent pipe is half gone and it’s a squirrel that has been eating at it.  He’s seen it many times before.  Best solution is to put a rubber boot on that which is anchored down by an aluminum plate.  He said that the minor repair work on the roof would hold me for now, we have tons of rain coming next week.  He gave a price which is a little more than I spent last Sunday on yard work.  He’s coming back tomorrow to knock the roof repairs.  Hopefully it’s not a recurring theme where every Sunday I spent a few hundred dollars. 

I’m glad that I came across this guy, he seems honest and I know that my late spouse talked about his father when he ran the company.  I just told him I found him through the BBB, which is true.  I didn’t get into the backstory about my spouse. 

At least I will have another worry checked off the list and the only thing I will have to be concerned with in the immediate future is the column aka Roof Brace.  I’m sure that will be a few hundred dollars and then hopefully I am done bleeding money for a bit.  Fingers crossed. 

Went out for Mexican food, hit up the post office and the cat food store.  Decided not to do laundry today, I’m being lazy.  Honestly looking forward to going to bed.  I am feeling tired again and the evening is still young. 

Got to get in some cat time before bed.  Then tomorrow it’s usual morning running but I will need fuel for the automobile.  Not looking forward to that.  Also got to decide what I want to eat tomorrow evening and where to fetch it from.  Staying home sounds nice but I like getting out.  Feels like I am getting sick I’ve got this cough that has started and my throat is bothering me.  I really don’t want to be sick so I am hopeful that it’s just allergies from being outside with the contractor, we chatted for about an hour.  He felt like an old friend. 

Off to surf a bit and then probably up to watch TV and fall asleep again.  I hope it was a great day for you!  Take care.

The rest of Sunday

Morning

I did some surfing after I put my up last post.  I was surprised to see that another young Porn Star had died.  Seth Peterson (real name Adam Daniel Aguirre) who was 28 years old, passed away on Saturday.  His body was discovered by his Fiancée.  Cause of death has not been released as of yesterday.  There may be more details forthcoming.  Seth was on my list of favorite porn stars and has given me plenty of orgasms during his career.  He started at Helix Studios and that’s where I first saw his work. 

While I know that it is possible to die at any age from newborn onward.  It’s tough for me to see such a young person pass.  He had a whole life ahead of him and who knows where that journey would have taken him.  My mind can’t help but think that this was suicide or an accidental overdose, however I want to stress again that is speculation in my part and no official cause of death has been released. 

There is a go fund me page that this Fiancée to put up for funeral expenses but another porn star was quick to say not to donate because he wasn’t positive where the money was actually going.  I don’t know if the young man had a family but presumably he did and the expense legally would fall to them since he wasn’t married only engaged.  The whole situation is sad. 

On a different note, I went to get a car wash and then drove for BBQ afterwards.  The wind was whipping so hard, when I got on the freeway it was slightly difficult to keep my vehicle in it’s lane and I wasn’t the only one who had the struggle.  Then I heard a strange sound, it sounded like something was rubbing like when your on a rumble strip (that indentation they make in the pavement, to let you know that your about to go off the road).  I exited onto another freeway and the sound stopped.  Then I heard it again on the way home and the winds had only intensified.

We had a rapid cool down.  It was in the 90’s when I left and when I got home roughly an hour later we were in the 70’s and that quickly dropped to 50’s.  I looked out to see no more weed by the front window and was so happy.  I glanced at the driveway and it looked like something was laying there.  I walked out and that’s when I discovered part of the driveway had collapsed.  There had been a small tunnel underneath for years and we never though anything of it. 

My YouTube research skills kicked in and I started watching videos.  Sounds like water got in and eroded the soil and then with the freeze/thaw cycle that occurs many times over in winter, that puts stress on concrete and hence the collapse.  Yesterday the guy parked his heavy ass truck in the driveway and I think that was probably the final straw and it gave way.  It doesn’t look bad just a slight unevenness.  However, the videos all say get it fixed now before it spreads and becomes a bigger problem.  I saw videos of guys drilling holes and using lots of spray foam to raise their driveways on their own.  That’s what the pros do but they use a different kind of foam.  I don’t plan on trying to DIY this. 

A couple houses in the subdivision have had their driveways ripped out and re-poured.  That’s got to be expensive.  It looks very nice though when it’s done.  Honestly the only qualm I have with my driveway is that it’s dirty and I’d love to see 100% clean concrete.  I learned last night there is special caulk and sealers that you can apply that prevent moisture from seeping in and doing more damage overtime.  I have some cracks and honestly never thought about it.  Just found out that homeowners doesn’t cover damage to driveways unless it’s the result of a storm or falling tree. 

As if that’s not enough I noticed that I have a roof brace on my front porch that is rotting.  I for sure will need to have that replaced or the roof over my front porch will sag or worse yet collapse.  That I for sure plan to address.  Cost for that according to the internet is all over the place from a few hundred to a thousand to thousands.  It’s one small white pole I can’t imagine that it would cost more than a thousand to fix but hey I’ve been wrong before.  I suppose it depends if you get an individual who does it or if you call a roofing company.  I plan to do both just to have a few estimates on hand before I make a decision. 

What can I say?  Every time I manage to save money there always seems to be something that comes up to try to take it away from me.  So much for my good luck thoughts.  That didn’t last too long before I got the wind knocked out of my sails.  Homeownership sucks sometimes. 

Outside of that yesterday was just a normal afternoon.  I left the AC on and then woke up at 5am to flip the heat on.  It was down to 71 in the house and the cats weren’t happy about it.  I never fully got back to sleep and both cats visited me in bed.  Mora got a hug and little bit of cuddling before she took off.  Rudy came in a bit later and he hung around until I woke up.  He started making his biscuits trying to get me to get up and get his breakfast but I told him we still had a couple hours before that would happen.  Eventually he laid down on my chest to make sure he didn’t miss a muscle movement of mine and/or that I’d disappear on him.  That’s never happened before.  Both cats always know where I am at but I don’t always know where they are. 

Damn, it’s Monday already and I have dealt with a few things at work.  The day is warming up and as people start to get working I know that my workload will increase.  I am still hoping for a decent day.  Take care and be well. 

Summer Time HOT

Hey, hope your weekend is going well.  Friday night I texted the guy about the yard work.  He said that he could come by on Sunday to look at it.  He wasn’t available today because he was going out of town.  I’m honestly getting the vibe that he’s not really interested.  We shall see if he shows up on Sunday.  If he does I am going to press pretty hard to find out when he can get this done, the sooner the better.  Meanwhile thinking that he’s going to fall through I found some additional recommendations online and have reached out.  As of Friday night I was waiting to hear back. 

Stayed up until closer to 10p, sitting in the dark with the windows open and feeling the cool breeze as the temperature wound down.  The cats really liked it.  My new dusk to dawn light sensors came and I got them installed.  They work like a charm.  Not I don’t have to worry about a timer for the front lights, they stay on all the time and turn on and off automatically.  The sensors were sold in pairs of 2 so I had to buy 2 sets because I have 3 lights. 

Despite it being hot in the house I managed to fall asleep with the ceiling fan on, that helped.  Rudy had me up at 6a and I passed out breakfast for the cats.  I returned to bed and watched TV, wanting to fall back to sleep but that didn’t happen.  Got up and had a left over piece of Chocolate Cake and a glass of milk for breakfast.  That was pretty good!  I knew the sugar would wear off and I’d for sure fall back asleep.  Took a couple hours but yeah, I got a nice mid-morning nap. 

The high for today 85, yeah I wasn’t ready for that.  As much as I didn’t want to I made the flip and fired up the AC.  It started without any issues and has been working.  Mora sensed the cold air blowing up the cat tree.  She got happy about it and had to inspect every register to make sure that they were all blowing cold air, which they were.  She laid in the sunshine in the living room while the cold air blew on her.  Talk about the best of both worlds.  The AC will need to stay on Sunday but then I can fire the furnace back up because it will be back to Spring like weather until Thursday when we go to 87 for the high.  I think there will be more severe weather coming with that hot weather. 

I did some writing this afternoon, it was nice to bask in silence.  Turned my phone off to shut out the world at large.  I always get a comfort feeling from doing that but still in the back of my mind think what if I miss an important or emergency call.  When I fired it back up, there were no emergencies but I did get two different folks calling me back about my yard work.  They both want to come on Sunday to give me an estimate and I have no idea what time the original guy is coming by.  After he leaves I plan to call them both back to see about getting estimates and award this job to someone, unless I get a real comfort feeling from the original guy.  I made it pretty clear to him last night that I want this done and damn quick. 

My neighbors kid fired up the mower today and cut their grass for the first time.  So glad that I turned the AC on.  Fresh Cut grass makes me sneeze my head off.  I’ve never really like that scent.  I know lots of people love it but it’s not for me.  It’s the season opener for mowing here and I know there will be more of it in the days ahead.  My lawn is ready for it’s first cut, I suspect that will happen this week. 

I went for a drive and got some pizza.  As expected the straight waiter that I have a mad crush on was no where to be seen.  A hot twunk walked in, long curly hair and a nice build.  He played the slots.  I thought about following him to see if maybe I could play with his stick.  Yeah I’m starting to get desperate but I know that a one night stand would probably do more psychological damage than it would solve.  I know that it would all feel good.  Thinking of jumping back into the dating game.  Anyway, I sat and waited for my pizza to cook and arrive.  It was good.  I saw a scruffy twink sitting at a table with his parents.  They kept sending him out to the car for different items, not sure what that was all about.  However, he too had a nice rear end.  So pizza and a little bit of a show. 

Grabbed the mail and here I am back at home with the cats.  The AC kicked on.  It’s freezing as expected in the basement.  I closed the vent in my office and fired up the space heater.  Mora is snoring in the chair behind me.  She got her attention and belly rub, now she’s out like a light.  I love hearing her snore.  I know that both cats are quite happy here and that brings me comfort.  Still doesn’t take away my feelings that rise up from time to time about checking out of the world.  I think of them and that’s what keeps me around.  We are the perfect fit.  They provide comfort & companionship for me as well as entertainment once and a while.  I provide a home, food, treats, love and attention.  Health care is included with that as well, hopefully we are years away from them needing anything in that area though.  I honestly think that if we separated Mora for sure would die from a broken heart and Rudy would die without Mora.  Talk about a tight bond!

On a different note I got to test drive AT&T’s network today with my recent plan change.  Man their network is so much better than it used to be.  I’ve got consistent coverage and decent speed.  Happy with the choice I made, not so happy with the price.  Got my bill today as well, the system forgot to apply discounts so my bill was a bit larger than it should have been.  I paid it with hopes that things will be fixed by next month, otherwise I will be calling.  I hate calling customer service for anything major – cell service, TV, cable you go through a million menus, get put on hold and then shuffled around.  Often it takes more than one call to get an issue resolved and you wind up talking and telling your story to so many people.  It’s frustrating. 

Thinking about BBQ for tomorrow even though I really want Mexican food.  Tomorrow I will top off the tank in the morning, I looked at gas prices before I left for my adventure today and they are hovering close to $5 per gallon.  Damn pretty soon no one will be able to afford to go anywhere.  I feel bad for the people that have to commute to work.  I know that prices will fall eventually but right now there is no end in sight, which is scary. 

Stay safe and be well.

Sleep Deprived

Happy Friday – we made it!

Hope your day is off to an awesome start.  Mine well not so much.  It began at 1:30a when I woke up and couldn’t go back to sleep.  Both cats were off sleeping in the living room.  I was able to watch some TV by myself.  Finished up Schitts Creek for the 3rd time.  What a great show and cast!

I looked at the clock next and it was 3a.  I started to stream some random comedy special on YouTube and the internet went out.  I took that as a sign to go back to bed.  As I turned the TV off, Rudy came in and joined me.  I was able to snuggle up with him and he helped me get back to sleep but it seemed to take forever. 

I knew that I wouldn’t want to get up when 7a rolled around but just got as much sleep as I could.  Damn trash truck woke me up at 6:30a sounded like a gunshot with them banging the cans.  I closed my eyes but Rudy was on top of me and he knew I was awake.  He made his morning biscuits and then just laid back down, giving me a little bit more time.  Eventually my body clock kicked in and I knew I just had to get out of bed despite not wanting to. 

The cats are always happy when they see me getting up in the morning, only because they know their source for food and affection is still among the living.  I stumbled to the bathroom and then to the kitchen. 

Got breakfast going for the cats and then myself.  Once I was done eating I wanted more food.  I figured that would equal more fuel and thus more energy but I resisted and just got up and started to move. 

From the emails that came in late yesterday afternoon, I knew that I had some work waiting for me and dreaded getting started.  I just wanted to go back to bed.  I’m not a happy person when I am deprived of sleep. 

If it wasn’t for a cold basement and the Belvita Biscuit I had, I’m sure I would be passed out.  I got through all of the work that was waiting for me and had a chance to do my usual morning surfing.  Here’s hoping that the day is fast moving and that maybe I can work in a nap.  Weather high today is 81.  Wow it’s gonna be hot.  Heard the neighbors AC kick on yesterday afternoon since I had my windows open.  The cats were loving it and got in plenty of bird watching!

Speaking of yesterday, it was in the upper 70’s.  We had a decent breeze but once the sun set the temperature started to drop like a rock and the cool breeze felt good.  I left the windows open until it was time to get ready for bed.  Had my dehumidifier on in my bedroom and it worked some magic it felt really good when it was time for bed. 

Saw an ad on social media for a local guy who does yard work he was looking for business so I gave him a call this morning.  I am waiting for a call back.  A guy that I called a few weeks ago and left a message for never called me back.  The guy that showed up and looked at my property but never made contact with me, never followed up with a bid.  I don’t get why it’s so difficult to find help at an affordable price.  I just want this done so I can move on with my life.  I’ve got one more place that I am thinking of calling, they only do bush work so at least they would be able to help with the bulk of the job I wanted done. 

Meanwhile the lawn is growing and I am sure that the lawn folks should show up any day now.  I kind of expect them next week, that’s around the same time they started last year.  I can always ask them for help but would prefer not to.  Thinking of sending a text to the original guy that I thought would show up last weekend to see if he can make it this weekend. 

As for the weekend, it’s going to be hot in the 80’s but then by early next week it’s back to more Spring like weather.  I only want to flip the AC on one time for the year.  I don’t like to go back and forth but might have to. 

Not exactly sure where I want to eat at this weekend.  Thinking a buffet trip sounds good but it’s a roll of the dice if I will enjoy the food or not.  I know that I will enjoy the drive regardless of which direction I go.  I kind of want to get out of the area.  I’ve got a full tank based on last weeks prices which were hovering about $3.50 now were at $4 and some change per gallon.  That’s only going to increase.  I’m glad that I don’t commute every day like I did back before the pandemic, that would be expensive to have to fill up.  It would be a twice per week event Sunday and then about Wednesday.  If I wanted to hit up a buffet or get out of the area that would be another fill up.  I’m particular about my fuel levels and really don’t like to go beyond a 1/2 tank but I do on occasion to flush things out. 

Anyway, I’m rambling.  Hope that you have a great weekend and stay safe.  Thanks for stopping by!

Cool to Hot

Happy Thursday!

Yesterday was a decent day.  It got warm in the afternoon and we were only in the upper 60’s.  I was chatting with my co-worker and he was working from home and had his windows open.  The birds were chirping there and Rudy & Mora were asleep.  I thought for sure it would wake them but thankfully it did not.  Birds started chirping here once they both woke up and I got a nice show. 

Found out that for the most part next week I will be by myself, my co-worker is going to do an upgrade of a system we use.  Normally the guy that retired and him work on this together but this is his first time to go it alone.  What could possibly go wrong?  He’s a little nervous but there is support to help him so honestly I think things will be fine. 

Lost my mind yesterday and upgraded my cell phone plan.  Turns out AT&T has really good coverage in my area.  I’ve got unlimited data now, at least until I change my mind.  Based on the speed tests I have done I’m pretty happy.  The only time I will be unhappy is when the bill rolls in, but I’m getting a couple discounts so that helps defray the cost.  Still got my Visible line that I use for work, which was originally gotten for dating.  It’s nice to know who’s calling what number.  If you call my main # and I don’t know the # I don’t answer.  If you call my work # and I don’t know the # I still answer because it’s likely a work call.  I’ve had a couple spammers call work but it’s easy enough to block them.  Something that I can’t do if I am actually at work in my office.  For some reason I always thought AT&T had crap coverage in my area and honestly I’ve never loved their prices.  Archie Bunker (from All In The Family) had it right when he called them American Thieves & Thugs.  They love to take your money, then again so do most businesses that’s after all the name of the game to make money. 

Caught a live stream from a mechanic I follow on YouTube.  He talks about a little bit of everything when he goes live.  It’s kind of like your sitting down with a friend just having a chat, all be it a one way conversation.  He talked about food and meals that he had growing up.  I had mostly the same thing.  I think were close in age but never bothered to do any research.  I like him because he explains things and shows you the work.  I am a dude but I honestly don’t know jack when it comes to cars.  I have a little bit of knowledge but I learned as a teenager I don’t belong working on a car, I don’t have that skill set.  Hence why I pay for all the service & repair work I ever have done. 

Feeling a bit more chipper today than I was yesterday.  My sex drive seems to be coming back.  Had a nice time last night that actually felt really good.  I honestly think that it’s situational and that I am my own worst enemy.  I tend to overthink things and really get in my own head.  There’s guilt from Working From Home more than I should.  There is also worry about the present and the future.  Somethings that I have control over and other things that I do not.  My big worry has always been losing my job but that has seem to pass the longer I work at the same place.  That’s also why I am hesitant to move on buying a vehicle or any big purchase, at least I have savings to fall back on.  I feel way more secure having a nest egg and just like when I was a kid collecting stickers, I hate to give any of it away. 

I’ve got a free and clear day, all of my tasks are done so it’s just a matter of waiting for work to roll in.  I plan on opening this afternoon and I know that will please the cats.  I just want to feel a cool breeze before the bugs start flying, once that happens windows will stay closed.  Cat’s like to play or fight with bugs through the screens and their claws don’t go so well with the screen.  Well work is building so I shall venture back to that screen. 

Have a great day and thanks for stopping by!

 

Okay day

Hey, hope your Saturday is going well!

I had a lousy nights sleep.  I nodded off before the ending of the latest episode of The Pitt.  I remember waking up in a panic thinking the TV was still on but I managed to turn it off or it powered off.  Made it back to sleep.  Then woke up again several hours later at 3a.  I wound up watching TV for an hour and then I was able to go back to sleep.  I knew that had put a damper on what I really wanted to do in the morning. 

Rudy had me up at 7:01a.  I got to sleep in a bit, normally I get a 6a wake up call.  I followed him to the kitchen and passed out breakfast.  Then used the restroom and watched TV.  Mora looked at me funny like she had no idea what I was doing.  She followed me to my room but I told her to go eat breakfast.  Eventually she made her way out to to the kitchen and ate.  Then she joined her brother and I in my room.  Both cats passed out on my bed and they were all stretched out, they looked so cute.  An hour later I got up and had my breakfast. 

I was hoping that the guy would call about my landscaping stuff, he hinted at this weekend when we talked earlier in the week.  However, I heard nothing from him.  Perhaps next weekend.  I’m not going to wait forever on him, I know it means I will have to pay more but I want the job done. 

Work emails kept pouring in but they were junk alerts and some reports.  I was able to pass out again and woke up a couple hours later.  Not sure how I slept through 2 emails coming in from work but they were junk.  Hey I’m not on-call this weekend so it’s no big deal. 

I was sitting watching TV and kind of bored.  That’s when something broke loose at work and a member of upper management reached out to me.  This is where exceling at your job sucks because it gets you more work.  I could have pushed this off to the on-call guy but he was already working an issue.  I opted to loop him in and we talked about it.  There really wasn’t an issue for us, just someone who panicked because they dealt with an unscrupulous company. 

Back to TV watching for a bit and then I got a shower and put on some clothes to head out.  Made it to the Mexican place by the office, then hit up the office.  Grabbed my mug and brought it home, time to wash it.  We got new carpet in the office, looks nice.  They were supposed to re-carpet all of the offices but mine got skipped.  Not that I care.  I mean my office is a former closet and it’s not like I am there.  I looked for any mail and had none, which is a good thing.  Then headed to get the mail and cat food.  Finally made it back home.  It took around 2 hours, which is what I had estimated. 

Cat food is put away, cats have been fed food & treats.  Given attention and I am working on finishing up laundry.  I’ve done my internet surfing and bill paying.  Everything is status quo here. 

It’s very much like Spring today in the 60’s, sun is out and it was a nice day.  I could have used a light jacket but didn’t take anything.  Something about no coat or jacket feels really good.  I did stick with long sleeves though.  We have a hind wind advisory that is going to kick in through tomorrow, winds up to 60 mph and rain/storms moving in.  I will for sure need a coat tomorrow morning when I venture out for breakfast, target and grocery shopping.  I’m thinking I might grab a frozen pizza and just stay home.  I kind of don’t want to, I mean I’m here all week long and the weekend is my escape and chance to get out.  I may throw caution to the wind and venture out for an evening meal as well.  Kind of depends on how I feel and how bad the weather actually is. 

Here’s hoping the rest of the weekend continues to be peaceful because Monday is around the corner.  Then we get to do the whole work thing all over again and my boss will be back so that means so will the BS and meetings, ugh! 

Thanks for stopping by.  Take care.