1 Day to go

Happy Thursday (aka Friday Eve).

I hope that your day is off to a great start!  Mine is going okay thus far despite an early morning start at 1a when my insomnia kicked in again.  I sat with Rudy and we watched TV.  Mora came in to join us for a while.  Around 3am I went back to bed and Mora cuddled with me and left, Rudy jumped in her place.  After that he never left my room.  He started with an early morning wake up call at 5a but I told him a couple more hours, he let me go one hour and tried at 6a.  I staved him off for 35 minutes and then wound up getting up. 

Mora looked like she was on bug patrol this morning.  She was on the couch arm looking up at the ceiling.  She cried out to me and I looked but no bug that I could see.  She came to eat breakfast and then went right back to bug duty.  I looked and looked but there is no bug, not sure what she saw or if it perhaps migrated and was hiding in another part of the house. 

I moved right along with my morning routine and Mora was waiting for me in my bed.  She has to have her morning attention, just can’t start the day with out it.  Kind of sets the tone for the day or something like that.  Rudy was busy bathing but managed to give me a couple dirty looks while he was cleaning.  He wanted some attention too and I didn’t let him wait for long.  I got dressed and peeked at my phone.  I expected there to be a bunch of junk from work.  There was email but nothing to get up in arms about. 

There was a situation last night later in the evening.  Despite not being on-call I inserted myself because it pissed me off and raised my blood pressure.  The long and short of it was someone accused us of not doing our job and that will get me fired up every time.  I fired off a professional but diplomatic retort and proved that we did our job.  I made sure to copy in every possible person that I could to show off and that seems to have calmed things down.  At least I hope so since there hasn’t been any further email about it, at least to me.  I probably should have let the mistake maker who was on-call take care of it but I just couldn’t resist jumping in.  I’ve got a pretty good barometer and know when to speak and when not to but sometimes I get into some sticky situations trying to be helpful.  I am scaling that back. 

Speaking of work I’ve been delegating a lot lately and damn that is fun and can be addicting.  I see something come in that I don’t want to deal with so I push it off on someone else and they take care of it.  Man if that’s what it’s like to be a boss that for sure has to be one of the perks.  I’m sure there are downsides and they probably far outweigh the upsides. 

Got some bad news yesterday.  A journalist and podcaster passed away.  I found out in the middle of watching another podcast it was an abrupt thing and there was an odd pause.  I’m speaking of John C. Dvorak.  He was known for being cranky but I found him quite entertaining.  He lived to be 80 years old.  That’s a long time but I’m sure it passed in the blink of an eye.  He was an entertainer to me.  RIP

While it was cooler here the AC still seemed to run about the same amount of time.  We have one more cool day before things heat back up and storms move in.  Not looking forward to rain or more brutal heat but come December I will be wishing for it.  That’s the thing about the weather were never 100% happy with it all of the time.  It’s either too cold or too hot.  Such is life!

I’ve prepared for the mass exodus tomorrow when our interns leave.  I’ve done as much pre-work as I can to get ahead.  I never look forward to their arrival or leaving as it causes more work for me.  I’m sure everything will go fine but tomorrow afternoon will for sure be a very busy time, perhaps that will make time fly so we can start the weekend.  I am not looking forward to next week since I will be on-call but I am certainly enjoying resting up this week.

Take care and thanks for stopping by. 

ROTTING SATURDAY

Happy Saturday! I hope that your weekend is going well.

I woke up early to feed the cats and after about an hour of watching TV, I went back to bed. Got up around 10a and had a poor choice for breakfast, which was a half slice of Chocolate Cake and a tall glass of milk. When I was done, I wanted more. However, I got my morning meds and retired in front of the TV.

Had a short search for a good movie. Landed on How to Make a Killing on HBO. About 30 minutes into that I paused, went to the kitchen to grab a Diet Coke and a Brownie. Then came back and finished the movie. I set my brownie on the bed; Mora was there and no sooner than I sat down than she had her nose over it and was ready to pounce. I caught her in the nick of time! The snack which I called lunch was good, but the movie was way better. I do recommend watching it.

Watched a couple of random YouTube videos and then went back to Hot in Cleveland. Eventually I wound up back in bed and fell asleep. It was so enjoyable, but I was letting the day pass by. I decided time to get moving. Fed the cats lunch, it was 1:30pm. Then I shaved and showered. Threw on some clothes and decided on what to do while I was out.

First order of business was lupper. Went back to an Italian Place that me and my late spouse as well as friends have been to. It’s been at least a year since I was there. I knew with my timing it would be walk right in and sit right down, which is what I like. Had a Cesar Salad, some phenomenal bread, a few Diet Soda and Lasagna. Desert was Chocolate Cake, but I got it to go. With a tip I dropped $55. I don’t usually spend that kind of money on myself when I eat out but damn this was long overdue and so damn good. This visit reminded me of what I’ve been missing. It’s also right by the office, how convenient!

I left feeling damn stuffed and telling myself that I needed to get back there more often. Sure, it’s expensive but it’s also very much worth it. It’s always a great experience, much better if you’re with at least one other person.

Next up on the list was stopping to grab the mail. Having completed that, next stop was to pick up Cat Food. There is a hot manager at the pet food store. I’ve had my eye on him for years. Got to see him. I’ve never made a move, but we have interacted a few times. My little voice told me as I was walking out the door to make a move, but I didn’t listen to it. I figured it’s better to admire and get excited from a far than to get rejected, at least that is what I expected. I have no idea if he likes guys but eventually, I may inquire. The worst he can say is no, which I am so used to hearing.

Finally, back here at ELHOMO, greeted by the ELGATO’S who were quite hungry. They got something special for supper. Chicken & Spinach. It was a true hit and for the $2.00 I paid for the small can of it, I am glad they ate practically every morsel of it.

My jackass neighbor I saw returned. He is whipping his property into shape. Put some more work into his deck steps and trimmed the bushes. There is brush everywhere so I wonder how long it will take him to clean that mess up? He is great at making messes, not so great at cleaning them up. However, I think that his wife is nagging him to do something with the place. It can’t be cheap to make two house payments. I think they will either rent or sell the place and someone new will be occupying it sooner rather than later. I am waiting with anticipation, hoping that it’s a hot single gay guy but kind of unlikely since it’s a single-family home with 3 bedrooms but hey never say never!

Started working on laundry and resigned myself to playing on the computer for a bit. Eventually I will head up. I wanted to change my deck camera batteries, but I can easily do that tomorrow. I’d like to do it when no one is around. Not in a huge major hurry either but want it off my to do list.

Another movie that I watched while I was off in the last couple weeks is Voicemails for Isabelle. It’s got Nick Robinson in it and he’s cute and there are a couple of nude scenes which were nice. However, while I was interested in those and him, I was more interested in the plot of the movie, and it turned out to be very good. I recommend watching it.

That’s pretty much it for today. Tomorrow will be the usual of eating breakfast out, hitting up the grocery store, filling the gas tank again, cleaning the house and having an evening meal out. Then preparing for Monday, ugh I don’t want to go back. However, unless I meet an independently wealthy man who falls madly in love with me before Monday, I think I’m going to have to return to working despite not wanting to.

Thanks for stopping by!

An okay day

Howdy, hope all is well.

I woke up early fed the cats.  Hung out for a bit to make sure that Mora would eat and that she didn’t get cheated out of food.  I sat at the kitchen table and waited for hog jaws (aka Rudy) to finish.  Then I called her like I do every morning and she was already on the move toward the kitchen.  After she ate, I went back to my bedroom.  I climbed in bed and watched TV for a little bit.  The cats joined me.  I decided that I should get up and at least eat breakfast.  Had a bowl of cereal to polish off the box and a banana. 

Got my morning meds and then headed back to my room to watch TV.  Eventually wound up at porn and watched a few scenes.  After cleaning up the mess, I went back to watching normal TV.  Got tired about 30 minutes after that and climbed back into bed with the cats.  I had to physically move Rudy and he was pissed about it.  I know he’s like me once he gets comfy leave me alone.  However, he was taking up significant room and without moving him there would have been no room for me.  He laid up against me and tried to push me out of bed.  It was funny but it didn’t work.  Took about an hour nap and then was wide awake. 

Watched more TV when I woke up but kept looking at the clock and realized that it would be to my benefit if I got moving.  Hit up the shower and got dressed.  Headed out to get the mail and then came back home for a short bit.  About the time I was comfy it was time to leave.  I was a little bit earlier than what Waze told me to leave, but ran in to a little bit of traffic as well as some light rain.  Arrived at the doctors office with 10 minutes to spare. 

On the way over I saw a billboard for Arby’s and it was close to an exit where there is an Arby’s.  It transported me back to a memory that I had with my late spouse.  It felt like it was all playing out in real time as I continued to drive.  It’s been 13 years and out of the blue something can trigger me.  It happened a lot more often in the early years.  I kind of figured that it was done but apparently not. 

This visit seemed rushed at least to me.  He was on time, I only had to wait a couple minutes before I was taken to an exam room.  Then after my vitals were taken, it was just a couple minutes and the doc was in.  We chatted and he moved to get his exam done.  I complained about being stuck for blood multiple times.  The doc walked me to the lab and requested the best sticker they had.  The lady who took my blood got it on the first try.  The doc said to come back in 6 months.  I don’t know why we switched this year from every 3 months to every 6 months.  I won’t be back until January.  I know that time will fly by.  I am still waiting on lab results, normally they are in by the time I am home but I got nothing.  I’m guessing they will come in tomorrow, which is fine. 

Went to the place that sucks at making pizza.  Ordered my favorite pasta dish.  I had a smoking hot young waiter.  I wanted to hit on him so bad.  All I know is that I wanted to say if I looked as good as you do, I wouldn’t be single.  I tell the cats all the time that if I had their good looks I wouldn’t be single.  I ate, paid my bill and left.  It would be nice to go back to work with a boyfriend but I’m not holding my breath.

Got the batteries in the garage camera changed.  Put the trash out and I’m home for the day.  Caught up on my porn surfing.  Yeah I peeked at work email earlier today because I was bored.  I didn’t respond to anything but took time to delete a couple of messages that were nothing but noise.  Then switched work email off.  I really want to login now and play catch up but that’s working and well I am off.  I guess I am too devoted to my job and take it way too seriously.  No wonder I get frustrated so easily and want to throw my hands up and walk out. 

Crunched numbers on a new vehicle just for fun.  It would be a bit costly even with a sizeable down payment and trade in.  However, I could make it work if I had to.  Then I realized that my calculations didn’t include GAP insurance, it can’t be that much more.  I will never ever buy a car without it.  Even though I’ve never had to use it.  It’s one of those things that if you need it, your glad that you have it. 

GAP INSURANCE … “Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on your car loan or lease and the car’s depreciated value if it’s totaled or stolen. It helps ensure you are not left paying out of pocket for the remaining balance on your loan after an insurance payout.”

Tomorrow’s agenda includes breakfast out, a haircut, trip to Sam’s club for fuel and more brownies if they still have them.  In the afternoon traveling back to the seafood place to get a strawberry Pina Colada [really hope it’s good and worth my money] and some fish.  Might hit up the pet food store if I don’t then that will be a Saturday task.  Looking forward to the drive and hope that the rain stays away.

That’s all I know at the moment.  Mora is telling me it’s time to head up, as if it’s a work night.  If it was I wouldn’t be down here.

I heard something in watching YouTube videos.  I think George Carlin said it.  You know people have a lot of good things to say about you, problem is you won’t ever hear them until your dead.  There is a lot of truth in that statement.  He was smart and funny. 

Well I guess I should run.  Thanks for stopping by!

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.

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!

Still numb

Morning and Happy Friday!

I am still numb from what I found yesterday.  My mind has been racing thinking of times we interacted in the past.  Memories.  The fact I have photos that I’m sure his kid would probably enjoy seeing the more it makes me want to reach out.  With age comes wisdom and I know to take my time with this and not react and rush into anything.  Right now I am thinking I am going to reach out but just not sure on when.  I know Father’s Day is only a few weeks away and I for sure wouldn’t want to clash with that because it’s going to be a difficult day for the kid. 

Needless to say I didn’t sleep the best last night but I am okay with it.  I also wasn’t in the mood to watch porn last night although perhaps if I would have I might have slept better.  I know it would have made me feel better, if only for a fleeting second.  Nothing quite like an orgasm, shame they don’t last longer!

The cats comforted me once they realized something was wrong after I found out.  Rudy came up and gave me a kiss, just like he did when he was in the shelter.  He’s such a sweet boy.  Mora sat with me letting her motor run on high.  It’s said that the vibrations from a cats purr can heal the human body.  I don’t know if I fully buy that but I can tell you it sure is comforting.  I can listen to a cat purr forever it’s so soothing. 

Work was calm in the morning but picked up in the afternoon.  I only have 1 meeting on the books today, I think it’s going to be a decent day. 

Looking forward to the weekend as per usual.  It’s cat food shopping weekend and also time to clean the cats water fountain and change the filter.  More tasks that I don’t enjoy.  However, I will be getting up early tomorrow as I have a haircut scheduled which I look forward to.  Not waking up early on a Saturday but I figure it will either get me motivated or cause me to come home and take a nap.  Thinking about where I want to eat this weekend.  Chinese, Mexican and BBQ all sound good to me.  I could honestly probably fit them all in if I really wanted to but I’d be so damn full.  Despite being overweight I really only eat 2 meals on weekends and sometimes throughout the week.  Breakfast and Supper.  Lunch is optional and dependent on how I feel as well as what I have on hand to munch on. 

Hope that you have a good day and a super weekend.  Thanks for stopping by.  Talk with you all again soon.

Real Estate

Morning!

I periodically open Zillow on my phone to check on Real Estate in the area.  Depends on my mood at the time I am using the app if I want to look at houses for sale or places for rent.  Last night I opened it to see if my neighbors place was listed or pending being listed.  I didn’t find it.  However, I found another house in the subdivision that is pending listing and it’s going for $345,000 USD.  That’s about average pricing for this neighborhood.  It’s tract housing meaning that there are only a few floor plans available and the houses are basically all created the same.  This particular one looks like my other neighbors house as it has a walk out basement. 

We moved in here well over 25 to 30 years ago and only paid $130,000 USD for this place.  I can’t believe that it’s appreciated that much in value but based on the market it says otherwise.  I know what’s wrong with this place and know that if I was to sell as is I think I would be lucky to walk away with $200,000 USD.  That’s still a decent amount of money but then the next challenge would be where to go and how to get there. 

While I have wanted to move for years, I don’t see that in the cards.  It’s cheaper and a little bit less stress to stay put or so I think for now.  I know the longer I wait the more difficult it will become to leave. 

Changes aren’t always a good thing and can often just be a temporary sense of gratification.  I’d hate to think about starting all over on a mortgage considering I am closer now to paying this place off.  Actually, if my late spouse wouldn’t have refinanced and added in credit card debt I would likely be even closer than I am not at having this place paid off.  Not sure if I will actually live long enough to pay this place off only time will tell.  I’m sure as time goes on values for homes in my neighborhood as well as else where will continue to climb. 

Switching gears – Had to work late last night, something last minute came up.  That prevented me from not only enjoying my evening but from brushing the cats.  I had to change a bowl of dry food for them yesterday because someone got sick.  I think if it was just Rudy he would manage on his own to not have fur balls but since they bathe each other big Mora is the fur monster.  There is plenty of her and plenty of fur.  I am always amazed at the amount of fur I get from brushing her as compared to her tiny brother. 

Tonight I will be finishing off the pizza.  I want to go out tomorrow night there is a local pizza place that has all you can eat Spaghetti that comes with salad and a drink for $12 which sounds really good.  BBQ also appeals to me.  Who knows I might just wind up staying home and eating out of the freezer but it’s nice to know I have options!  Something about eating out during the week and changing things up is appealing not to mention it gets me out of the house, if only for a short time. 

3 meetings on the agenda for today – 2 of which are with vendors.  Hopefully, all goes smoothly. 

The sun is out again today and it’s supposed to be a nice hot summer like day.  Wish I wasn’t trapped in the house and could get out and go for a drive.  In a few weeks that will be the case but with my luck it will probably rain that whole week, but I hope not. 

Have a great day and take good care of yourself because there is only one you. 

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!

13 Years

Greetings – Hope that your having a great day!

As it typically happens my weekend insomnia kicked in last night.  I was so tired and couldn’t wait to get to bed.  I stayed awake until 10:30p and called it a night.  Woke up at 2a and couldn’t go back to sleep.  I knew that I wouldn’t want to function in the morning.  I stayed up watching TV until 4a.  Turned the TV off and Mora came in and got comfy laying on my arm.  She knows how to turn on the magic and I melted and passed out but not before I moved my alarm up a 1/2 hour to 7:30a. 

Morning arrived and my body woke me up and Rudy was right there to say good morning, get out of bed and feed me.  I protested but knew that I had to get up and get moving.  We got breakfast going. 

Time for a shower.  My head doesn’t itch as much or as bad as it did a few days ago.  The redness has faded considerably and I am quite happy with that. 

Threw on some clothes and headed out to the grocery store.  I wasn’t the only one shopping but at least I got there early enough that I was able to snag a great parking spot.  Never mind that I parked next to a jackass who didn’t quite know how to park.  I squeezed myself out carefully and headed inside. 

Grabbed some of those Doom Oreo’s, man they are so good.  It was a breeze in and out trip.  I was done before I knew it.  Then it was time to see how much damage I did.  Close to $100 and I left with 3 bags and a gallon of milk. 

Headed home, put everything away.  The humidity was crazy and I was so uncomfortable.  Took off my clothes and sat in my room with a Sprite Zero watching TV.  Both cats joined me and passed out.  I managed to watch the latest episode of The Pitt without falling asleep so that’s good.  Caught 2 episodes of Neighborhood Watch, which is a show where they play clips of funny security camera recordings. 

Once that was done it was back to Young Sheldon and eventually off to take a nap.  Had to make Rudy move and he wasn’t happy about it.  Woke up and passed out lunch.  I had some junk food as a snack.

The house had cooled down and I knew the basement was going to be chilly so I got dressed and then headed down to do laundry.  It’s going to be a day full of laundry because I put off doing it last weekend. 

I’d like Chinese for supper but the place I go it’s a roll of the dice if they will be open or not.  Instead I’m going out for BBQ.  Not quite as tasty as Chinese but it will be good in it’s own way.  I’m planning on ordering Brisket.  Picking up the mail on the way home and I’m done with running for the day. 

Today is a day I’d rather just skip over.  13 years ago today I lost my spouse. I’ve got no doubt that He’d be quite proud of me.  I still miss him and wish he were here.  I’m selfish I suppose.  Back then I wondered how I would go on and how I would survive.  Each year I am amazed that I lasted another year as the years continue to fly by.  Never thought I’d make it this far.  Also wish the original cats were still with me too, this place was much busier back then now it’s so much quieter than it’s ever been.  At times that is good but sometimes it serves as a reminder that I’m all alone. 

LAZY SUNDAY

Welcome!

Rudy woke me up faithfully on time as usual. He tried for 5a but that’s way too early regardless of the day of the week. I’m sure if there is a day that I give in to a 5a wakeup call he would never forget it. He got me up closer to 7a and I rolled out of bed reluctantly. Today was one of those days where I wished I could have just stayed put.

I got going and headed out into the cold for breakfast. Went back to the usual place and had a dish that my brother turned me onto years ago. Country Fried Steak and Eggs. It was good, but I did miss feeding my sweet tooth. Paid the bill and hit up the grocery store.

I watched a YouTube video on Friday all about frozen food and it turned me on to a couple new brands like Amy’s and Kevin’s. They are higher priced meals for frozen dinners but better ingredients and are supposed to leave you satisfied. I found a few dishes that looked appealing to me and I’m giving them a try, hopefully I enjoy them.

Next stop was the gas station, and I hated this one the most. The card reader always seems to have problems with reading one of my cards and this morning was no exception, but it would have been nice to have it work to get out of the cold wind. Saw a couple of large birds that I hadn’t seen before, they were feeding on some left-behind bread. They looked beautiful.

Made it home to unpack and while I would enjoy a nice Mexican dinner, it’s so cold and windy out that I think I am staying home. I kind of hate that because I won’t leave here all week (unless I manage to change my mind) but I’d rather be with the cats in a warm home than out in the elements.

Finished up with Schitts Creek. Couldn’t help but think of my wedding day watching David & Patrick getting married. What a great show that was. It’s one of those shows that I want more of, but it ended well on a happy note.

I still have some house cleaning chores to take care of. Listening to the scanner to see what mayhem is going on in my area. Just having fun being lazy and doing what I want. I did trim both cats claws last night. Neither of them was pleased about it but Mora put up the biggest fight. You’d think after 3 years they would both trust me more, I mean if I was going to harm them, I would have done it long ago. I get not being a fan of nail trims, I didn’t like them when I was younger, but I have gotten used to them, still not a fan though. Funny thing about a cat, they manage to sharpen their claws up rather quickly after a nail trim. Rudy making his biscuits and poking me with his sharp claws, I am allergic and break out. It looks like I have chicken pox or something without a shirt on. Plus, it itches and it’s no fun. However, I still love Rudy’s biscuits, it’s his begging skill to tell me he wants food.

Here’s hoping that this week is a good one. I’m getting to the house cleaning chores after this and then it will be back to find something to watch on TV. Hope it’s a great Sunday for you.

Reflection

Thinking about yesterday’s repairs I have done a little bit of research. Sounds like I am lucky that I didn’t have an accident or experience catastrophic failure of the steering system. I had a sign but didn’t know it. My car would pull to the left. If it pulls to one side that’s a sign from what I have read. I also learned that tie rods need lubrication. I’m certain by taking my car for service to my friends for service their mechanic didn’t lubricate anything. I’m thinking of switching car maintenance to the tire shop, they do all automotive work just their big seller is tires. Things would be more expensive but I’m thinking I might have more peace of mind, not to mention that I think my automobile would be better cared for.

I am on the fence and can’t decide when I want to get rid of this automobile. It has been good to me, and we have had some good times and some bad times. Lots of memories and I can tell you that there have been exactly five people that I have had as passengers thus far. Next year the car will be 10 years old. I’ve not held on to an automobile like this. Why is it so special you might ask? Well, something drew me to purchase it when I got rid of my lemon car. I knew I was taking a huge risk. I really couldn’t afford it, and I knew that but still bought it anyway. I said I’d make it work and I have, things just fell together and I did have to make some sacrifices. Most of the digits to unlock the door with the keypad (in case you don’t have your fob handy) make up the last 4 digits of my late spouses’ social security number. That was a sign to me, like this was meant to be.

Despite that the majority of what I call convenience tech (like remote start through an app, checking oil life remotely, and GPS tracking) no longer work because it came with a 3G modem, oddly make it more appealing to me. I liked all those features but honestly my life isn’t drastically different without them. It was nice when I drove to work every day to pull up an app on my phone and heat up or cool down the vehicle before I arrived. If I thought, I forgot to lock the door I could send a remote lock (or unlock if I needed to) signal. I like flying under the radar and not having to worry about a potential hacker taking over my car. I’m convinced back in the day when the modem was working that it was hacked. One day, I went out to go to work and couldn’t start it. I tried and tried but nothing. I had a tow truck on the way and had planned to haul it to the dealer but as luck would have it five minutes after I called for the tow truck, I tried to start it, and it worked. I took my chances and made it to work and when it was time to leave it started right up.

It’s really got everything that I have ever wanted or needed in a vehicle except for a heated steering wheel, that’s the only thing I would add.

I know that unlike any other vehicle I have ever had before the day I trade it, I will miss it greatly probably more than any other vehicle that I have owned. I also know that whatever I buy will have big tech in it and I will be tracked and possibly hacked. I’ve said every year since the Pandemic that this is the year I’m getting rid of it. I promised myself last year that this year would be the year. However, my fear is that whatever I buy will be junk and have lots of issues as well as recalls. Eventually I will just take the gamble and go for it. Just as it stands today, I don’t know when that day will come. I also like the fact the engine is well broken in, and I know how to get the best gas mileage out of it. It’s all about making sure the tires are inflated to the proper pressure and then turning on the cruise control when on the freeway, driving the speed limit. That’s the secret. People pass me like I’m standing still but I just think of the savings. I don’t always drive that way, and I do have a led foot. I love speed and this vehicle has a turbo so there is plenty of get up and go. I’ve done 120mph in it, that was back when I thought my mom was still alive and I was trying to make it to the hospital. Only to find out when I walked in the door that my efforts were in vain and she was gone. If I knew that up front, I would have taken my time and driven fast but not at super dangerous speeds. That was piss poor communication on my brothers now wife.

On a different note, I did call it a night early last night. My nose was bothering me, and I wound up taking a Benadryl along with a sleeping pill. I happily found that Schitts Creek is on HBO, which means no commercials. I love that show and I’m sure the only reason it’s there now because of the passing of Catherine O’Hara. She was a great actress. I started watching it and before I knew it after about 5 episodes I was out.

I woke up for a brief period during the early morning but quickly went back to sleep. I had strange dreams, but I felt like I had slept when it was time to get out of bed. I of course didn’t want to get up, and Rudy tried his early morning wake up call early and I told him he was too early. He just took a seat on my chest and laid down. We were both back to sleeping quickly. I think only one of us was happy about that and that I was the happy one. Once it was normal time, I got up and got moving.

I went to an old place where I used to eat breakfast regularly. It was time for a change of pace plus I had something specific I was craving. I got it and enjoyed it very much! Made it through the grocery store, stopped to fill up the gas tank and then back home to warm up and relax. I watched more Schitts Creek and took a nice nap with both cats in my bed. A nice Winter’s Day!

I’ve got a serious case of not wanting to do anything just because I have the strange feeling that this is going to be an overwhelming week and I will be super busy. It’s my chance to enjoy the calm before the storm. I got my chores done. Finishing up on some laundry and as soon as that dryer is done, I plan to change clothes and head for pizza. It is hours before the game, so I know I’m taking a big chance but it’s what I want. Then back home and I am done for the day; I plan to relax and of course watch more of Schitts Creek.

Hoping to have a nice relaxing evening, take a warm shower and fade into what I hope is a blissful and long deep sleep, only to be woken up by my furry alarm clock that is Rudy.

Thanks for stopping by, hope all is well in your world. Take care!

Busy

Morning!

Yesterday was off to a great start but my boss called me, it was for something trivial.  Ever since that call things managed to pick up.  Lots of strange/odd things plus lots more regular work.  I was able to put some of that off until this morning.  However, no sooner than I got caught up more stuff has come in.  I’m caught up now but who knows how long that will last for.  I hate bursts of work where it goes from total quiet to absolute chaos, but yet I manage. 

One thing that helps me concentrate, which I actually find odd is instrumental music.  I’ve got my Pandora client open and am listening to a station called Acoustic Alchemy.  They are a group that I cam across years ago.  This is the right mix of music to get me productive.  It also helps me relax.  It’s a good change up from regular Rock and Roll.  I can’t listen to Pop or Rock while I work, it makes me hyper and my heat feels like it’s going to jump out of my chest.  I’ve tried it numerous times to no avail.  Oddly enough Easy Listening music was my grandmothers favorite music, she listened to it all the time.  I take a lot after her and see her image in me.  Shame she passed at such a young age, she never got to see the man I have become.  I was telling Mora the other day that I think grandma would have liked her, despite the fact she hated cats.  She was a dog person. 

I was pretty bored yesterday and scrambling to find something to watch on TV, it was a never ending search.  I would land on a short video and it would be done, time to move on to something else.  I need a good series that I can follow.  Ever since I finished Home Improvement I am in search of my next watch. 

Things got so bad at 7:30p I called it a night.  I put the dishes away, got ready for today.  Shaved, took a shower.  The cats passed out on the couch and they didn’t seem to miss me.  I retired to my bedroom to watch TV.  I watched the latest Kathleen Madigan Special on Amazon again.  Climbed into bed and by 10p I was passed out. 

Had a strange dream involving my mom, grandfather and grandmother.  It was horrible and I was happy to finally wake up.  Rudy was on top of me passed out.  I had to wake him up so I could get out of bed and make it the bathroom.  Then back to bed and Rudy climbed back on top of me.  Like I am going to vanish.  I really admire his loyalty and the affection he provides, its unparalleled to any cat I’ve had before.  He knows who butters his bread and he shows his appreciation. 

2 Meetings on tap for today.  Glad I am not on-call this week, it’s been really busy.  I think that might be the new trend, I know I’m gonna hate it next week but a week does go by pretty fast once you get into it. 

Had Potato Soup last night for supper, man it was good.  I should have paired it with a sandwich or bought a second serving of soup.  I honestly didn’t expect to like it as much as I did.  I’ll dig in the freezer for dinner tonight.  Soup will most likely be my lunch.  Thinking Broccoli Cheddar.  It’s the right weather for soup or chili. 

Stay warm, take care and be well.  Talk with you all again soon!

Winter Weekend

Hi and welcome in!

Hope that you’re warm and doing well.

Saturday, I slept in and was lazy for the morning. I watched a movie “I’m Chevy Chase and you’re not”. It was a documentary about Chevy Chase. I enjoyed it. I thought about how good it felt to lie in bed with the cats, not having to be concerned about anything or anyone. It was just us in the moment and it felt so nice.

I got my new modem activated. I thought it was going to be a huge ordeal, but it went simply like it always should have. I disconnected the old one and connected the new one then opened an app on my phone and pressed a button that said activate new equipment and within 10 minutes it was done. I honestly was in shock that it went so well. I did a bit of surfing and testing to see how my speed was. It’s faster but I don’t quite see the 1 gig on my tests, it comes close though. If I run a test on my router or from the cable company those all check out and say I’m getting what I am paying for. I tweaked my network card on my desktop, it supports a gigabit connection but still even after a reboot, I’m close to 1 gig but not quite there. I’m at speeds high enough that I am satisfied.

I have a feeling this 1 gig service is the lowest new speed that they will offer. I accomplished what I wanted in that I got my bill lower but that’s only for 12 months then I must call back and beg again. I am sure that if I ask to go back to 400mpbs they will tell me that it’s no longer offered. What I have now is $105 per month – no way I am ever paying full price that is way too expensive. There are other options but all of those are cellular home internet. There is a new fiber company that is supposed to be coming to town, I hope they arrive within the next 12 months because I’d switch in a heartbeat. I hate cable company.

Anyway, I got a shower and headed out to run errands. First stop was to return the old modem. I walked into the cable company’s store, and you can’t just walk up to the counter anymore, you must sign in on a tablet. Like you’re visiting an AT&T store. Anyway, I did that and waited for a couple minutes. I was able to return the old modem, but the guy tried to pitch me cellular service, and he said that I could get a year free. Tempting as that is, bundling is what they want, because it’s more secure for them and you’re less likely to leave. I want to get away from the cable company in the worst way possible.

Next stop was to get lupper (lunch and supper) it was only 2p and quite early for me to eat but I drove to the Mexican place that I like. It was easy to get in, and I saw some nice eye candy. I had a decent meal, but service was horrible. I waited 15 minutes to get the check so I could pay and leave. My food came out wicked fast as always. I was stunned at the number of people I saw with no coats on. One kid in shorts (that’s the new in thing – shorts year-round).

Next stop was the tire store. Got my quote, $1,300 for 4 tires and 4-wheel alignment. Only $100 more than I expected. I still think it’s highway robbery, but I set it up for next Saturday. After I get my haircut, I will get to sit in the tire store while they do their thing. I expect that I will probably be there for a couple hours because they don’t move that fast.

Next stop was the cat food store. They finally had Duck in stock. I was tempted to buy more than I would normally get but I didn’t. I’m sure that it will backfire on me. I grabbed a larger bag of dry food because both cats really enjoy it. I’m always filling the bowl. It was a happy accident, but it worked out well. I had to park next to a guy with a monster truck who tried to double park. I really had to be careful getting out but my fat ass made it. Thankfully he was gone when I was ready to leave.

Next stop was the Post Office. Then my favorite stop of all, came back home finally. It was nice to be home and so early too. Unloaded everything and took care of feeding the cats. Changed clothes and got comfy.

I worked on laundry and taxes. I was pissed that Turbo Tax wouldn’t let me electronically file one of my state returns. They said I had an unusual tax situation and had to mail it. This year was no different than any other year, just that I made a little bit more money and got a decent amount of interest. I was also upset by the fact that the state that I had to pay was filed electronically but I couldn’t pay them until my return had been electronically accepted, which happened this morning.

It was late when I called it a night, 9:30p and I was honestly tired. Not to mention the cats were getting on my nerves. I was never so glad to get to bed but had to put away the laundry and make the bed first.

Sunday (this morning), I ventured out to breakfast and the grocery store. Mailed my taxes. came home and thought about going out later for something to eat. It sounds very good but honestly, I didn’t want to bother changing clothes and getting back out in it. Temperatures are still bitterly cold here. I got in my morning nap after the groceries were put away. That was nice and both cats were next to me. I got the house cleaned, medicine prepared for next week and watched the last of Home Improvement. That show ended rather well. It got me thinking about the past, when my spouse was alive, when we got married. It was nice but also painful because it’s another reminder that I’m alone, at least for now.

Came downstairs and wrote a check to the state that I owe taxes to. I thought about it and decided to just throw my coat on and go mail the letter. It was just a quick trip down the street and back home. I didn’t change clothes, went out in sweats and a T-shirt. The car had just warmed up when I turned the engine off. I thought about making a Wendy’s run, but frozen pizza sounds better. Plus, I can play on the computer for a bit. No schedule or agenda to follow, just chilling for the rest of the day. It’s about pizza time so I will be headed up to get ready. At least I am done with taxes – now it’s just waiting for my refunds to roll in and hope that it’s smooth sailing as it normally is. Fingers crossed.

Things are supposed to warm up here by next weekend, but it will still be cold just not sub-zero cold. Hope you had a nice weekend. Back to the fun tomorrow. This is the 2^nd to last week that we will be fully staffed. The old guy retires on Friday the 13^th. I told my boss that I hope it’s not an omen for us. I know it’s going to be hellish and stressful. I am not looking forward to it at all. Kind of wish it was me that was retiring.

Take care, stay warm, be safe. Thanks for stopping by!

Last Words for 2025

This year feels like years past when writing this post, it’s all a blur.  I’ve had some high high’s this year with 2 ride alongs with different police agencies, being able to donate money to make a difference in kids & family’s Christmas’, seeing movies that I enjoyed, taking time off, asking a hot waiter for a date only to find out he was straight.  You might think that it belongs under the low lows, but it was exhilarating for me. 

Speaking of the low low’s most recently this month with find out that a former co-worker committed suicide months ago, a former porn star I liked did the same and then a former porn star & only fans creator was killed in a motor vehicle accident.  Add to that not winning the lottery, the cat food shortage earlier this year and what came to me recently in the shower no performance bonus that I was promised this year as well as the fact I bought two what I consider expensive gifts for the cats and they want nothing to do with them. 

It’s been quite a year and now it’s time to button it all up and put it in the past as we move forward to 2026.  Like last year I hope this time next year I have a man to celebrate with and that I will meet him this coming year, sooner rather than later.  It would be nice to win the lottery but absent of that I’ll settle for buying a new vehicle.  I think this will be the year that happens.  That my job continues unless of course I win the lottery then who cares.  That both of my cats as well as myself will remain in reasonably good health and that we will continue to comfort and entertain each other. 

My wish for you is continued health, happiness and prosperity.  Be kind to others as were all going through something even though it might not show on the outside.  I say that as I really want just to bow out of life, existing seems meaningless to me at least right now.  It might be a bit of the winter blues or depression, but life has very much felt that way for me ever since my spouse passed.  Yet I’m still here and continue to amaze myself by not only pressing on but with some of the good things that happen to me.  It’s one day at a time or hanging on for one more day in the hopes that things will go my way, despite how tireless that seems. 

Here’s hoping that 2026 will be the year that only good things happen to all of us.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Finally reached the end

I am finally about to cross the finish line for the week. What a week it’s been. Today is the calmest day that It’s been all week long. I also hope that I didn’t just jinx myself. This is the first week I didn’t pause for a nap at all. I’ve just been that busy!

Still thinking about the young guy, I used to work with that committed suicide. I can’t imagine what demons he was fighting with. It makes me wish that I would have reached out to him to at least make my feelings known. Not seeing any notification about his passing at work, I reached out to a manager today to let him know. Turns out it was already known and the word was spread locally in the office he used to work in. This morning trying to compose that email and looking at his face in his obituary just led me to sob. My feelings for him were strong but moreover it’s the fact that he was only months from his 30^th birthday. I wish that he was still here and am having a hard time accepting that he is gone.

Continuing down that same path, I thought of his mom. While I don’t know if he participated in our 401K, but if he did and he designated his parents as beneficiaries they could be owed some money. It’s one of those things that might not have been thought of. Also, each year a ton of unclaimed property & money is surrendered to each state in the US because the owner can’t find the recipient. I googled his state along with the words “found money” (example, CA Found Money). That led me to his state’s website, and it turns out they have some money in his name. I found his mom on social media and reached out to her to express my condolences and to alert her about the 401K as well as the fact that the state has unclaimed money owed to her late son. I like to be helpful and really wish that I would have had someone guide me when I was navigating the journey with the loss of my spouse. I hope that gives her some comfort. While I know money won’t replace him nor bring him back, it’s better for his parents to have it than letting it just vaporize. Now I know I’ve done all I can.

You don’t have to be dead to have a state holding money or property in your name. A blurb appears in the news usually once per year about unclaimed property. Search your name on your state’s official treasurers page, you might be surprised. If you want to go the extra mile you can search for family and friends as well and if you find something, let them know. I search periodically for my late mother, my late spouse, myself as well as my brother. I’ve also found money that was given to my mom. My brother and I were able to make a claim and get the money.

Last night for supper I had a Turkey Pot Pie. Had to buy Turkey because the store was all sold out of Chicken. Anyway, I thought it would be the same thing but with Turkey. Turns out this one had one tiny carrot and tons of peas, not what I was expecting at all. It was still good though.

I’m thinking about making the last Tombstone pizza that I have, I plan to get a couple more while I am off to have them on hand. Going to look for the next episode of Heated Rivalry. If all goes according to plan, it should be a nice evening.

It’s going to be cold tomorrow in the 20’s but Sunday we are down to single digit temperatures, so extra cold. I don’t know if I will get out tomorrow but maybe just for food and mail. I do have plans to sleep in, despite being on-call. I will hear the phone if it rings. Kind of feel like I am getting sick. I woke up coughing this morning from drainage that I call sinus soup. It’s certainly something you don’t want at all but certainly not on an empty stomach. Took some extra allergy meds and right now things seem to be calm. Then again, I am upright and not laying down.

Today marks a sad anniversary for me. 3 years ago, I lost my Gator. I remember how bad I felt and how I just didn’t want to go on. I couldn’t imagine life existing without her. Then a month later I wound up with Rudy and Mora. Not exactly sure how I made it a full month, that is kind of a blur. Rudy and Mora are my anchors that keep me grounded. They need me as much as I need them. Once they both pass that is going to present a problem, but who knows where I will be in my life. If I’ve done my math correctly, I will be much older. Only time will tell. I still very much miss Gator; you don’t spend 18 years with an animal and just magically forget them. I not only miss her but all her siblings, the strays we had and of course my late spouse. The upcoming holidays are for sure a difficult time for me. I hope that all my departed cats as well as my late spouse are resting in peace. I think they all know that I miss them.

I’m sure you’re probably wondering what plans I have for my “vacation”. Honestly, nothing more than getting a haircut followed by a decent shampoo & scalp massage, some vehicle maintenance and having lunch with a friend. I’d like to work on this place and clean up some of the clutter that has accumulated over the years. Plus enjoying some naps and food. A trip to the alternate grocery store to get more Tombstone Pizza! I know that it’s 2 full weeks but it’s going to be over and done within a flash. The part that sucks is I need to babysit work with EOY coming up so I will need to check in periodically. I am not mandated to do it, but it will make my life easier so I shall.

Hope you have a great weekend. Stay warm and be well. Thank you so much for stopping by!

Middle of the week

Morning!

With all I have been through this week, it honestly feels like today should be Friday.  However, two more days to go.  I will just keep chugging along until I reach the finish line.  I suspect you will do the same. 

I solved one of my big problems at work last night.  My boss is working the other problem because it’s a high profile issue.  He’s pretty stressed and wound up over it.  As long as he keeps that energy away from me I’m fine.  However, I have felt it already.  Perhaps he will be calmer today but only time will tell. 

Right now it’s quiet at work but it’s also still very early.  I fully expect things to pickup and get busier in a bit.  If they don’t for some reason I certainly won’t be upset.  I like quiet and bask in it as much as I possibly can. 

As you might expect I had problems sleeping last night.  I was still upset over learning about my former colleague and wanting to reach out to his boyfriend.  It was really nagging at me not to let it go and to express myself and reach out.  However, this morning I feel a bit better about the decision I made.  I know that I can always change my mind. 

Last night I had Mostaccioli made by the grocery store for supper.  It was okay.  Had some Christmas Cookies as well as the new fusion cookies I discovered – Chocolate Chip Banana Bread.  I love cookies, especially Christmas cookies for the rich buttery flavor.  I know they aren’t good for me and I shouldn’t have them.  However, last I checked I’m still going to check out of this life someday, so might as well enjoy the few things that bring some joy to my world.  Life is way too short as it seems I am constantly being reminded of. 

I had been watching Christmas Vacation when I found out about my former colleagues demise and just paused it.  Last night I finished it up.  I’ve seen the movie many times before and I know I will see it many times in the future.  It’s just one of those things that is fun to watch.  Kind of like Home Alone and Home Alone 2.  Really wish I could go back in time to when Home Alone was just out.  I was so happy then and so much younger & cuter. 

We have cooler weather and it’s being ushered in by wind, lots of wind up to 40 mph.  That started last night and is supposed to continue up to about lunch time today.  At the moment no snow or rain is in the forecast.  Just some temperature fluctuations and as the days go by the deeper into the freezer we are going to go.  Were headed to single digit temperatures.  While we are still in Fall it does feel much more like Winter outside. 

Speaking of which I have let my beard grow.  It’s only been a week and 3 days.  It looks nice but there is way too much white.  I am at the super itchy stage.  Despite face washing and lots of moisturizer.  I am ready to claw my face off, which is when I know I have to part with it.  I plan to shave it off tonight and just know that it will feel so good combined with a shower.  I prefer clean skin but usually only shave once a week.  I am not a fan of shaving at all.  I honestly don’t see how anyone can outlast the itchy stage long enough to grow a beard.  Perhaps eventually the face goes numb or you just get used to it and know not to scratch.  At least for me scratching makes things worse and the more I itch the more I want to scratch it’s a perpetual cycle that never seems to end, hence why I am shaving. 

Here’s hoping that it’s a good day for all of us and that we all stay warm.  Thank you for stopping by, talk with you all again soon!

Cookie Monster

Morning …

I bought some Chocolate Chip Banana Bread cookies.  Two things fused together in one.  I thought it would be interesting.  It’s a wild ride that my taste buds absolutely love and can’t get enough of.  This was a store made item and I will for sure be looking for them again.  I hope that this isn’t one of those things that they make it once and you can never find it again.  I also like Chocolate Chip with Peanut Butter.  They make those regularly and they are also good but the CC BB cookies are my new favorite!

Last night I got some disturbing information.  A YouTuber that I watched for years who’s channel has long been dark was involved in a hit and run accident.  He was the one that was hit, actually T-Boned.  He suffered a stroke as a result of the accident and he’s way younger than me.  He posted the information yesterday to his social media and I saw it last night.  There is footage of him learning to walk again.  The sad part is that if you have a stroke your odds of having another one go up drastically.  I was bothered by the information and feel bad for the guy.  I know he’s got a long road ahead of him and somethings you get back and others well you don’t.  He’s got age on his side so hopefully he can make a full recovery with no deficits. 

This all took me back to when my late spouse suffered his first stroke, hours after having foot surgery.  It was due to medical negligence and he almost had a case if it wasn’t for his primary doctor being unwilling to cooperate.  If that would have happened then he would have walked away with some settlement money.  In any event I watched the whole even unfold in front of my eyes and it was highly unpleasant.  I also watched the recovery process.  He was told he would never walk again and he proved them wrong by walking out of the hospital after a month or two of therapy.  I was able to help him once he came home.  However, if this was to happen to me today I’d be fucked and not in a good way.  There is no one to lean on for daily care.  It ties into my comments from yesterday about being lonely.  It’s worse when your seriously ill and alone, that is just down right scary.  I’ve had a couple close calls with illness but managed to bounce back. 

It’s like I said yesterday, tomorrow is not promised to any of us, regardless of our health.  You never know when something will cause an upset to your health or wellbeing.  Just a reminder to not take life for granted. 

In other news, I did cancel my massage.  My back is not happy about it but I will make it.  My social media is filled with massage offers now that I’ve posted the subject here.  I haven’t really searched much for a replacement but it’s on my to do list.  If I forget I’m sure my back will remind me. 

Had some horrible Fettuccini last night.  Started off tasting okay but eventually it started tasting like I was eating Elmer’s glue.  I threw it out and just waited patiently for desert time to roll around.  Had a slice of German Chocolate Cake.  I normally eat 1/2 and save the other 1/2 for another night but last night I devoured the whole thing.  It was so good!

Got in a nice hotter than normal shower, to help sooth my muscles.  Then it was off to watch TV as I waited for an hour to pass and bedtime to roll around. 

Keeping an eye on Rudy.  He seems a bit different at times like he’s depressed or just in some zone.  Most of the time he’s perfectly normal and eating, playing and sleeping.  However I am starting to feel that there is something going on with him and this is probably going to lead to a vet visit.  Right now I’m just watching him.  I make sure to shower him with love and affection just a little bit more than normal.  He’s the salesman around here and without him this place would be almost 90% mischief free.  Mora on the other hand seems perfectly fine. 

Found out last night that we have a new critter.  Were going to be hosting a Racoon Family.  They are living under the deck.  I caught it on camera last night where a Racoon (large) came and hung around the deck.  There is a small cut out on top and somehow it contorted it’s body and went through the cutout.  This is how previous Racoons have done it and the next thing you know we have a small family.  Now it makes sense that cat was putting it’s nose in the cutout and started batting at something but I saw nothing.  Turns out it was the Racoon.  The cat hasn’t come back, not to say it won’t but a Cat & Racoon don’t mix well.  It’s been several years since we had Racoons.  I think they are cute and neat, so long as I am looking at them from inside my home.  I know that they can be destructive and dangerous.  I had an encounter with one in person years ago and am lucky to have walked away from that uninjured.  I won’t press my luck again. 

Well, calm day at work.  No meetings and honestly nothing really on my calendar.  I took care of my morning tasks.  I get an extra week of reprieve from on-call because I am working Thanksgiving.  I remember that I had to flop things around so someone didn’t get pissed off by having to work Thanksgiving.  I am actually contemplating taking some time off next week.  Haven’t made it official yet.  Right now I am just trying to skate through today.  Tomorrow is pretty much a repeat of today and I’m not complaining.  It does make for a long day when you have nothing to do but I survive.  Besides that I have no idea when all hell will break loose and my calm day will be interrupted, so I am on stand by all day.  If nothing happens great it’s a win for me. 

Hope it’s a great day for all of us.  Take care!

Rainy Gloomy Day

Morning …

In case your wondering the weather in my neck of the woods, the tile says it all.  Rain started yesterday on and off.  This morning it’s very steady.  The rain is supposed to stop around lunch time.  Doesn’t mean that the sun will come out though. 

Today is another heavenly birthday this time for my mom.  It’s been 7 years and honestly the time has escaped me.  I didn’t feel it like I felt the loss of my spouse.  I’m sure though that my brother has felt it as he and my mom were close.  If she were alive she would be in her early 70’s. 

Work kept me a little busy after normal business hours and if I wanted I could have been busier if I wanted to be, I got tired of fielding normal requests and just called it.  Nothing urgent came in which is all that I am required to respond to.  However, I like to go the extra mile now and then just to keep my work load lighter in the morning since you never know what might come down the pike. 

My calendar looked really busy this morning but within an hour I have managed to tame everything and as soon as I typed that my internet connection went south and I got flooded with more work.  Finally I’m back on idle.  My cell phone saved the day using the hotspot feature I’ve got a backup internet connection.  That alone is worth me keeping Visible since it’s unlimited data. 

There is an internet outage with the cable company and my connection has been up and down all morning.  It would go down and then a few minutes later come back up.  I got an alert saying there is an outage and first it was supposed to be fixed by 11:30a.  Now they are saying I will have intermittent internet until it’s fixed.  Looks like I will be using my cell phone for data today. 

Today is meeting day, whoopie.  The mistake maker is back and I am loading him up with work, which is fun but I know he’s gonna mess something up.  I had some training to attend on a new system yesterday.  It’s for access control and you have to be on your toes and make sure your clicking the right buttons or the person won’t have access.  It’s complex and sadly the mistake maker and I are the people who are in charge of this.  I know he’s gonna seriously mess someone up because he doesn’t pay attention.  There is another training session today and I hope that he goes to it, otherwise he’s gonna be quite lost.  I planned to call him this morning but the more I thought about it I have opted not to.  I will mention it in a meeting we have but that’s about it. 

Watched a fun video last night on YouTube on Waldo Welds channel.  He’s a hot guy that loves to tinker with welding but most of his videos involve vehicles and fixing them or doing maintenance.  He bought a couple of Humvee’s and it was fun to see him get one of them in pretty good running condition.  I’m sure he’s straight but he’s my kind of guy.  Younger, in shape and knows how to fix things.  I could use a guy like that around here.  Once I found Waldo’s channel I binged his content and now he makes videos on occasion, wish they were more regular.

Had a store made Beef Burrito last night.  I ate the whole thing it was quite the struggle.  I used to be able to pack them away.  I normally split them in half and make 2 meals out of them but I’m never full when I do that. 

Looking forward to lunch as I have some Cherry Zero Dr. Pepper.  I hope it’s good.  It was something different to help from the boring taste of cola.  Variety is the spice of life.  I love trying new drinks or dishes, all though not everything is enjoyable it’s nice to spice things up now and then. 

Well work keeps pouring in so I am going to publish this and get moving.  Hope it’s a great day!

Heavenly Birthday

Welcome in …

Today would be my late spouses birthday.  I still miss him everyday and somedays the loss feels much greater.  Happy Heavenly Birthday Sweetie!

I’ve thought about how him and my cats would get along.  I think that they would both hit it off quite well.  Of course one or both of them would have probably tripped him by now but other than that I think that he would really love them.

Speaking of pets not sure if any of you follow Tyler & Todd they are Vloggers on You Tube.  Yesterday they announced they lost their dog Charlie.  I could just tell by the title of the video what was about to be announced.  I was ready for it but once they confirmed it I just sobbed like I lost a loved one.  Not sure what Charlie’s age was but he had cancer and they went to great lengths to save him.  They got another year of life out of him, which is exactly what they wanted.  I feel so bad for them as I’ve been down the pet loss road many times.  They have a couple other dogs and a cat to keep them company, it’s just a matter of getting used to a new normal.  My condolences to them. 

If your not familiar with Tyler & Todd they renovated some shipping containers to build a gorgeous house in the middle of the woods in Canada.  Their work is amazing and I think they are both quite handy, they had some help from friends and contractors but the end result looks stunning and it’s something they are both quite proud of.  I’ve watched them for about a year and always look forward to a new video, which typically comes out on Sunday’s.  Occasionally they surprise and release a Wednesday update as well. 

Closer to home I went out in the rain to fetch Chili, a Cheeseburger and Frosty.  I was unhappy when I got home to find that I wasn’t given any crackers or hot sauce.  I was more upset by the lack of crackers.  I did burn my mouth on the Chili but still in all it was delicious and I gobbled it all up.  It was the perfect meal for a soggy Sunday afternoon and afforded me time to cuddle with the cats and watch TV.

My new computer glasses seem to work great when I use them in combination with my laptop instead of my desktop.  I think the prescription needs to be tweaked a bit and then they would work fine regardless of the computer setup.  At least I didn’t waste my money but I am a little disappointed. 

As were close to Halloween either tonight or tomorrow I will be disabling the automatic timers that control the exterior lights.  I find that my security cameras work great in the dark with no light, which is kind of amazing.  We were one of the first houses to start turning lights on at night and it’s caught on throughout the neighborhood, not everyone has bought in but a good majority of people do.  Of course a good majority join with me in powering lights off as it gets close to Halloween.  It’s kind of messed up here kids get two or sometimes three nights they are permitted to Trick or Treat and they get a parade to go with it.  Back home where I grew up we got Halloween night and that’s it, no parade.  However, it’s been this way long before I moved here some 20 years ago and I don’t foresee it changing. 

I am more excited for Thanksgiving and the first snow.  From what I’ve seen in forecast models looks like it’s going to be a very wet winter.  Might not all be snow could be rain.  However, we got the big snow last year so I’m honestly not expecting anything huge this Winter but one never knows. 

I’m on-call this week and not happy about it.  I’ve got plans for the weekend to make it to the office to turn the calendar in my office and hopefully pickup a new calendar that the company provides.  I’ll stop in at the local Mexican place nearby to make it a combo trip.  Plus I have an haircut booked early in the morning and found out yesterday Cinnamon Raisin Biscuits are back at Carl’s Jr/Hardees at least in my neck of the woods.  I’ve got plans to have one of those along with a Sausage & Egg Biscuit.  It’s only Monday and already I’ve got plans for Saturday!

Here’s hoping it’s a great week for all of us.  Take care and thank you for stopping by.