Technology & Guns

I’ve been thinking about a couple things that were news worthy items this week and wanted to share my two cents, not that it will change anything.

First – The kid who used ChatGPT to commit suicide. I heard on a tech podcast that this kid wasn’t the first person who consulted a computer regarding suicide and in fact this was the 3^rd case. Technology like anything can be weaponized and destructive or deadly. I get that some people don’t have anyone to talk to. Look at me I am pretty much all alone. I also get that folks might think that others won’t understand what they are dealing with. Suicide is a drastic thing and as I learned in therapy when I was much younger, it’s a permanent solution to a temporary problem.

We are all dealing with something. It might be work, school, sexuality, the death of a family member or friend, a sick pet or a pet that has passed, a traffic accident or ticket, some other legal issue and the list goes on. No matter what you are dealing with you are not alone there are help lines in every single country that you can call and talk with a human being. You can find resources for your country at https://www.suicidestop.com/call_a_hotline.html

I speak from experience from having wanted to commit suicide a couple times in my adult life and also in my teenage years. The worst times in my life were the death of my spouse and then when I lost Gator my long-time cat that had been with me for 18 years. Once she passed away that ignited former feelings of being all alone and it was kind of like my spouse died all over again. I honestly didn’t think that things would ever get better or see a clear path. All I wanted to do was die because it just didn’t seem to me that life mattered that much or that anyone would truly miss me if I was gone. I didn’t bottle things up; I took someone up on their offer that they would listen to me and I sought them out and opened right up telling my life story to them. It was hours of time we spent. I did a lot of crying. I also went to the pet store and looked at cats but that just made me cry. I managed to go a month without a cat and then I started looking that’s how I wound up with Rudy and Mora. They are my lifesavers, seriously. They are so attached to me and since I am their 3^rd owner I told them that this was their home and they are here to stay. I mean that is unless I drop dead or get killed in a car accident or some other hazard.

I’ve had some low points and at times even with these two cats’ life can be overwhelming and I have had some thoughts of calling life quits. Deep down I don’t want to die, I just want my circumstances to change so the pain would stop. I know how I felt back when Gator passed and then nothing mattered. That was the closest that I came to actually going through with it. I had a lot of people scared even my own doctor. With some of the things I told him he should have had me locked up for my own well being but he trusted me when I told him that I wouldn’t do anything. How many people say that and then the next thing you know they are gone?

I’ve said all of that to say this. Reach out for help to solve your problems, talking honestly deep down feels really good especially when you’re talking to the right person that you can trust.

A former friend of mine told me think about what if you try something and you wind up hurting yourself and you live and don’t die but are handicapped or permanently injured. Also think about whom ever would find your body, that’s something that they will never be able to unsee. Regardless if it’s a seasoned professional like a police officer or fire fighter. They are human. It’s much worse if that person is a family member or friend.

I do think that ChatGPT and other AI chat bots should have restrictions placed on them so they don’t discuss mental health issues and/or assist with how to form a plan to end your life. I think that should have been obvious from the day AI started but obviously it was overlooked.

Second - The shooting at the Catholic School in Minnesota. I looked using AI for what country school shootings occur in. I was surprised to find that the US is not the only place but sadly we are the leading country where this happens. It’s to the point where it’s at epidemic levels.

I know that the 2^nd amendment gives the rights to bear arms and you have the right to defend yourself if you are being attacked or in imminent danger. It’s odd that each time this happens all we do is send thoughts and prayers. Well, those don’t do a whole lot to solve this problem that is continuing to occur. One child shot is one too many and this is something that never should have occurred.

I do think there should be stronger gun laws, I do think that all firearm owners should be responsible and lock/secure their weapons from children or those that might have mental health issues. I think that perhaps raising the cost of ammo would also be another action that could be taken. Look the world is filled with a bunch of intelligent people and brilliant minds, surely if we had some dialog and discussions on this a plan could be formulated that would solve this issue once and for all.

However, it’s not until the problem affects you or someone you know that people really focus much attention on this issue. These are innocent children who are trying to get an education and they are not out to harm anyone. I think it’s wrong to steal a child’s innocence regardless of how it’s done. Because once they are robbed of that it’s something they will never ever get back and it will stick with them through out their lives.

I grew up Catholic and started off in Catholic grade school. We had to go to mass every day we were at school. We said the pledge of allegiance to start the day. It was all very much a routine but times were way different and we had no school shootings then. We also had no technology then. However, we did have firearms but they were reserved mostly for hunters and those that wanted self-protection. Sure, we had criminals who had them to rob and steal. I also went to public grade school from 5^th grade forward and then on to public high school.

Kids can be cruel there is no doubt about it. I can think of a few kids that I grew up with that I wished I had never met. We were all free though in that we went to school each day and there was no worry or concern that someone would come in guns blazing. Being a kid today is radically different from when I grew up and honestly if I was a kid today, I would be scared out of my mind. I can’t imagine having to walk through a metal detector and using a swipe card to gain access to school. I can’t imagine hearing gun shots while I was trying to learn and then having to take cover. What if I was just walking to or from a class and was in the wrong place at the wrong time? My childhood wasn’t perfect but no way would I trade my school experience for what exists today.

I think that this problem is going to continue and it’s going to get much, much, much worse before it ever gets better. It won’t be until someone important like a politician’s kid gets injured or killed before things change in the US. There is never a time where I’d love to be proven wrong than now and from today forward never ever hear about another school shooting for as long as I live.

I can’t imagine being a parent to get the call that their child was injured or killed while at school. I feel sad for the kids as well as the parents.

Please someone find a way to solve this problem and the sooner the better before another life is lost.

The tip is gone

Good afternoon,

Today has been quite busier than a normal Thursday. The morning was calm but I was busy working on a project. I got interrupted a few times but for the most part was able to concentrate my efforts. I planned to pick up and hopefully finish that project today after lunch. Well, that's when things got really crazy busy out of the blue. I wasn't able to devote any additional time to the project and my part has to be done tomorrow or at the latest before Monday. I really don't plan to work the weekend so I am going to try to finish up tomorrow. I had a usual touch point conversation with my boss; we both complained to each other about our day. It was the usual waste of time.

The cluster project is still on going and I really thought that this week at some point the second wave for me/my team would be ready but thus far that's not the case. I can only hope that it holds off for one more day because I've got a lot on my plate to get done and limited time.

Last night I had Stouffer's Lasagna, which isn't bad for microwave food, all things considered. Watched a podcast and more YouTube.

Rudy was itching to play before bed and I picked up one of the old cat teasers (back from Momma's family) we had been playing with it since it's all feathers. That's when I discovered one of them (most likely Mora) chewed off the rubber tip at the end. I'm certain that it was small enough that which ever one of these cats did it that they swallowed it. I figured that would be impending doom and I worried but played with Rudy.

Slept crappy woke up at 3a and had to watch TV in order to fall back asleep. The cats kept me company.

Passed out breakfast and Rudy was all about it. Mora was very slow to get out of bed. I had to call her several times to eat. Just as I was about to get up, she came around the corner. I saw her eat and that's when that feeling of impending doom left me. Both cats are eating, drinking and going to the bathroom – so all is well.

I've got the trash out, even if I was later than I wanted to be. Fed the cats supper and now Mora is next to me waiting for treats but were hours from that time. I need to figure out what I am going to eat.

I'm just passing time and watching things at work, hoping that I am done for the day. My left shoulder is killing me, there is a knot in the back and I would love nothing more than to rip it out but that's not happening. No massage scheduled until the end of next week. Hopefully, I can work it out a little bit and get some relief.

Hope that you had a superb day! Talk with you all again soon.

Whirlwind

Hey – I managed to tame my inbox and get caught up.  It took me most of the morning to get things under control.  There is a lot going on.  The cluster project is still going on and it’s turning into a cluster they are way behind schedule and things aren’t going nearly as smooth as was the plan.  I think this will linger on into next week while I am gone. 

I had a lousy nights sleep which was mostly due to nerves.  Something about going back after being out a couple days causes me to not sleep well.  Now that I am back and have had no naps I suspect that I will sleep good tonight or so I hope. 

There is plenty of work to tide me the next two days.  I am still not done with today but in my mind the day is pretty well over with. 

Had lunch and both cats started fighting.  Rudy was chasing his sister.  I got them to calm down and I was able to enjoy a 1/2 sandwich and a donut while I watched a couple of You Tube videos. 

Lunch was over way quicker than I wanted.  It’s nice out with some cooler temps and the AC hasn’t yet kicked on but I know that it probably will since things heat up a bit in the afternoon. 

I feel fine for the most part, I think it was allergies that got me.  Inhaling all of that pollen while I was trimming the weeds combined with a temperature change.  I have a slight cough at times but otherwise all is well. 

Glad that things are back to normal or close to it.  I also hate that I just got caught up and will be out next week so I will have to do it all over again. 

Thought I’d take a moment to post this before I head up for the afternoon to be with the cats and keep an eye on things at work.  Hope all is well in your world.  Take care!

Midweek

Hey we made it to the half way point of the week.  It’s moving pretty fast for me.  This morning I heard an advertisement for a Christmas Concert in November and then next thing I know there was a story on the news about Snow removal.  Were only in August.  I thought Pumpkin Spice season started early.  I know that by in large the world things that Summer is done but it’s actually still alive for a little bit longer, fall doesn’t start until September 22nd which is a month away. 

Saying that I heard that our temperatures will be dropping into the 50’s overnight in the next day or so.  However, it’s still going to be warm out during the day and feel very much like summer time. 

Back to school seems to usher on Fall, Thanksgiving & Christmas and before you know it the year is done and were starting all over again.  I know that time doesn’t stand still for anyone but damn it could slow down a little bit. 

Things here are moving right along.  Two weeks and my birthday will be here along with some much needed vacation.  I crunched the numbers yesterday and if my calculations are correct I still have roughly 2 weeks of vacation to burn.  I want to see that materialize before I go burning time that I had planned on saving.  I like to keep 2 weeks in reserve just in case something happens and I need it. 

Last year I said that on my birthday next year (this year) I’d buy a new vehicle but mine is doing fine and only dropping in value.  I don’t honestly need a new vehicle but the temptation is sure there.  I think I am going to stay put with what I have, keep saving money and hope that all goes well to make it another year.  Truth be told I will probably drive this until the wheels fall off or something goes seriously wrong that there is no trade in value.  I just feel so connected to this vehicle & I bought it not having any idea of how or if I would be able to pay it off and I manage to pull that off.  I suppose if I start driving more that I would be more apt to give in and get something new but right now staying put seems like the best thing to do. 

Speaking of cars I watched a video last night on Waldo’s World (You Tube Channel) about Range Rovers.  Waldo is a hunky and attractive guy to me but he’s also got a lot of knowledge.  Videos have a way of making everything seem simple.  Anyway this video was about the cost of ownership.  I already knew if you owned a Range Rover or Land Rover you need a 2nd car on standby because they are not reliable but they seem comfy and fun to drive when they are actually functioning correctly.  I’d never buy one because I don’t have that kind of money but the video was fun.

Yesterday I went down the porn rabbit hole and found a free site that had a lot of interesting content.  Between work and surfing in my free time I spent way more time in front of the computer than I wanted to.  However, I had a fun night. 

Cats are doing well.  I’m eating pretty good.  Tried a Starkist Tuna Fish lunch kit.  It’s a box you pick up for $2.35 and it’s got everything you need to make your own tuna fish and crackers.  Kind of neat.  I threw it in the fridge even though it doesn’t require refrigeration until you open it, that made it taste better.  Rudy tried to fight me for the Tuna when I cracked it open.  His little nose smelled it and wanted some but I didn’t give in.  Maybe some day I will but I seriously doubt it.  Once you start that you will forever be chasing your tail, so to speak. 

Today is meeting day and the cluster project thus far is still moving right along.  I figure that towards the end of this week or the start of next is when things will become an issue but we shall see. 

Right now I’ve got a bunch of time on my hands and I plan to enjoy it while that time remains mine but if work beckons I shall answer.  Hope all is well in your world. 

Interrupted connection

Good afternoon, today hasn’t gone like I thought it would.  I was up and working away in the middle of a task when poof, there goes the internet.  I fought for 15 minutes to try to get my desktop and phone to pair up so I could get back on-line.  It was no use it wasn’t happening.  I had to run upstairs and grab my laptop.  I got back on-line and finished up my task.  Then when the dust settled I went backup stairs with my laptop and phone.  I hung out in my room keeping an eye on email and watching TV. 

Eventually a note came in from the cable company telling me there was an outage in my area.  Really, do tell.  I’m not exactly sure what is going on but my connection has been far less reliable than what I am used to.  Today’s issue was blamed on a power outage.  There are no automatic bill credits given for interrupted service.  I haven’t bothered to call but they are pushing my buttons and I am about to boil over.  I know it won’t do any good to call which is why it hasn’t happened.  However, if I do call I will be asking for a lower rate.

Service was back around lunch and I came back down and finished up what I had to for the day.  I am just watching the clock and looking for something to do.  I will be heading back up soon and watching TV but not before I get the trash out. 

This week seems to have moved by extra fast, it’s hard to believe today is Thursday.  It’s the last week before school starts up in the area so I am sure lots of people are dreading next week. 

I am dreading next week because that is when the clusterfuck project is slated to start.  I got through the prep work yesterday and now it’s just a matter of sitting back and waiting for things to come together. 

On a different note I was surprised that I got a text yesterday from my Thanksgiving friends.  They want to take me out for my birthday to any place of my choosing.  Well I picked a Steakhouse that I go to in the country.  It’s good food but it’s not cheap.  They operate on reservations but if you get there when the doors open you can sit at the bar and enjoy a meal, which is usually what I do.  I’ve never been to this place with anyone else and I know that they will like it.  It’s nice adding something else to my list of things to do that week.  I know that will be a meal that I will enjoy!  I’ve also never ordered off the menu and always had something that was on special.  I’m really looking forward to this. 

Rudy started my day with an early morning wake up call.  I need to figure out how to adjust his time setting because he’s an hour early.  I don’t mind early like 10 or 15 minutes before wake up time but a whole hour, no thanks.  Let me sleep. 

My cat food supply is really short and I am struggling to provide variety for them.  I can’t get to the cat food store to re-stock soon enough but don’t plan on it until Saturday.  Rudy figured out that if I put something out he can sniff it, tell me he doesn’t like it and ask for something else.  A little persistents and I will give in.  Then he loads up and his sister moves in and does the same.  Who’s Zoomin’ Who?  I know I am being played but it doesn’t start out with me feeling like that, it’s only after the second can goes down that I realize it.  He hasn’t done it but twice but I am sure he is keeping notes and will probably pull that stunt again.  I take such good care of them I wish that I was them and they were me at times. 

Time to go spend the rest of my Thursday afternoon upstairs and get the trash out.  Take care!

Blueberry

Morning and Happy Thursday!

Work this morning went a little smoother and less hectic than I thought it would be.  Still I have a lot to do as the day moves on.  I’ve knocked out my tasks for the morning.  The afternoon will be my super busy time and I am hopeful that things can stay quiet until that time rolls around.

I finished off the Burrito last night as expected and opened another pint of Haggen Daz.  I’m not sure how that stuff managed to hide from me in the freezer.  It’s one of those items that typically doesn’t last long around here.  Although I have a new flavor of Lemon & Blueberry Sorbet that I picked up in late Spring that I have been eating sparingly.  It’s super tart but still good. 

If I see Blueberry anything chances are pretty good I will buy it.  I really like Blueberries.  One of my favorite baby foods from Gerber was called Blueberry Buckle and I couldn’t ever get enough of it.  I remember eating it as a young person not a baby but not a teenager either.  Unfortunately, Gerber stopped making it and it’s no longer available.  I kind of wonder if I’d find it enjoyable as an adult but that’s one of those questions I will never know the answer to. 

I watched a Technology Podcast and then found other podcasts that conversations were just so enjoyable I didn’t want to switch away. 

We were supposed to get some rain but I don’t know that it ever moved in. It did become quite overcast though. 

I had a shower before bed, no cat playtime which actually went over rather well.  Rudy entertained himself and Mora came to sit with me in my room.  It didn’t take long before I was ready to climb in bed.  I didn’t sleep the best I was up a couple times.  Mora joined me for the first one and helped me get back to sleep.  Rudy climbed on top of me for the second time and just hoped that I would get up.  He stuck with me for two hours until it was actually time to get up.  Now that’s dedication or maybe he thought I’d forget about him and he wouldn’t get breakfast.  I’ve got a routine for morning, noon and night that I don’t typically stray from.  I tell both cats all the time that no cat of mine will ever go hungry, not sure that they understand that but they always show up when I crack a can of wet food open. 

I think I am headed back up for a bit to be with the cats until work calls me back or until lunch time, whichever comes first.  Something about being away from the computer seems to send out an alert and everyone manages to bug me.  It usually starts slowly with one or two requests and before you know it I am drowning in email that needs me to do something and respond.  It’s nice to be needed but not that much if you know what I mean. 

Cooler weather has finally arrived and I hope that means my AC will get a break, poor things been really working hard to keep us comfy.  Hard to believe that this is the last day in July.  Were getting closer to my birthday which I honestly don’t look forward to other than it’s also going to be a week of vacation for me.  Seems like after my birthday it’s all down hill and it’s Thanksgiving & Christmas before you know it.  As my late grandfather used to say, time stands still for no one. 

Make it a great day!

Amazed @ myself

Morning world!

We are at the half way point in the week.  I do believe unless something changes that this will be my last non-busy day of the week.  My afternoons have picked up a bit but the last few mornings have been calm and quiet, something I could easily get used to. 

Speaking of work, not sure why but lately when I join a Zoom meeting from my laptop it picks up my microphone and camera.  That never used to happen.  I don’t mind the microphone for audio but kind of prefer the phone.  As for the camera I’m no fan of it at all.  I keep it turned off even when everyone in the meeting has theirs turned on.  You can easily tell who’s in the office and who’s working from home, even if there background is blurred. 

I had two back to back meetings yesterday before my day ended.  The last one I was the hero in making something work on the fly.  I am quite amazed at myself and how quickly my brain worked to figure things out.  It made a huge impression.  I’m still amazed by it all.  I always tell the cats that daddy knows how to do his job and that’s no lie.  I also celebrated 11 years at this same work place this past Sunday.  The day wasn’t marked on my calendar as it normally has been.  I could tell by my photo memories that I was close.  I looked it up yesterday and found the exact date.  The longest I have ever worked at one place.  Here’s hoping for many more years, more money and less BS at the same place.  Hey 2 out of 3 isn’t bad but all 3 would be even better!

I watched that scene from Corbin Fisher I spoke of a few days ago last night.  Also managed to squeeze in part of a new Himeros scene between Grant Ducati and Christiano.  It felt good after several days to finally experience release!

This should also be our last super hot and humid day as a cold front is moving in and tomorrow temperatures through the weekend should be cooler. 

Supper last night was half of a Store made Beef Burrito.  It was pretty good and I polished off the quart of ice cream I had been working on.  I am having the other half of the Burrito tonight.  Desert will probably be ice cream but I might switch that up. 

As for the agenda today there are 2 meetings on my schedule.  I might miss one of them but the other one I have to attend.  There is so much going on at work and I honestly don’t look forward to my turn next week at being back on-call.  However, I am sure enjoying my time this week.  Able to spend time with the cats, get in a nap and just goof off a bit.  No play and all work is dull & boring. 

Hope that your having a great day and all is well.  Stay hydrated!

Connectivity

Hello World!

Yesterday was a little bit of a technology snafu.  My home internet went out around lunch time and didn’t come back up until this morning.  Working from home this obviously presents a challenge.  I need to be able to get on-line at all times.  My phone saved the day as it has many times before.  Visible Plus to the rescue.  I have unlimited data nd unlimited hotspot data.  Your only supposed to connect 1 device but I was able to get away with 2.  1 of which was a computer and the other was my Roku.  When work was done for the day I was down to just my Roku.  I’m not sure what went wrong with my home internet but they have been having issues where we have spot outages for a few hours and then were back up.  Of course my special price just expired so I am paying more now and they don’t give credit for outages.  If you want it you have to call.  I’m getting close to loosing my cool with them and about ready to call to see if I can get the price lower.  There is another fiber company coming to town but they are dragging their feet.  If they were here today I’d make the switch kind of tired of the local cable company.  It wasn’t just internet that was down it was phone and TV as well but I only have them for internet so the rest of my stuff worked.  That’s why you can’t put all of your eggs in one basket, you have to diversify or have backup providers for redundancy.  That can get expensive but Visible has been rock solid for me in every possible way.  I can’t sing their praises loud enough. 

Funny what started out as cell phone service for dating has turned in to my primary service for cell data and has doubled as a work phone.  I’ve become so reliant on it I can’t imagine living without it.  If they just offered to associate your name with your number I’d move my regular cell service over, drop the extra coverage and be able to save a bunch of money.  However, it’s a pre-paid service so caller id only displays as Wireless Caller, which for dating if your making calls is a good thing to help mask your identity. 

I had to fight a little bit to get my desktop and laptop to connect to my phone as a hotspot but got it working and was able to continue with my day.  I only had a meeting that got pushed back to the afternoon and I was able to join it from the comfort of my couch.  Nothing else came about and I was thankful for that. 

This morning is starting off the same as yesterday in that I have nothing to do for several hours and then it’s meeting, meeting, lunch, meeting, meeting.  Unless something else comes in to break up this cycle that’s how my day is looking to shape up. 

Woke up with my back feeling funny the more I started to wake up that funny feeling developed into an itch.  I scratched and it felt a little odd.  I looked in the mirror and I’ve got claw marks on my back.  What in the world happened last night?  Which cat got me?  No one’s talking here cat’s got their tongues.  It’s nothing major and it will heal but damn it’s gonna itch a lot and I hate that. 

Speaking of itches my neck is bothering me a little bit but the peeling has stopped.  I just resist scratching as best as I can.  I’ve got some strong will power if I want to use it but an itch is one of those things that you think will feel better if you scratch it and sometimes that is the case but with this that is NOT the case it only makes things worse. 

Had left over pizza for supper last night.  Broke into my newly found ice cream stash of Haggen Daz.  One more thing I found when I went to work on the freezer.  I’ve got a few pints to go through and it’s so good!

Wanted to really watch porn last night but that internet outage with my home network impacted my ability to stream from my desktop to my TV.  I’ve got an old scene from Corbin Fisher that I am itching to watch.  Not sure if I will make it to tonight but I am gonna try my best. 

Right now it’s time to get away from the computer and go relax, hoping that I am left alone so I can enjoy my down time before meeting season kicks in this afternoon. 

Hope all is well in your world and that your staying cool & hydrated!  Take care.

Rain Dance

Morning!

Yesterday I made it for BBQ, turns out the waitress got my order wrong.  I got a smaller portion of what I ordered.  I thought something was wrong but once the bill came that confirmed it.  I was satisfied and wondered why I wasn’t nearly as full as I normally am.  She offered to fix it but I said nah, it’s okay.  I also got a much lower bill so why complain.  I thought about getting some to go but didn’t. 

Over the weekend I had to oil the fan in the freezer, it was growling.  It scares that cats sometimes but mostly is just an annoying.  I found a bunch of things that I need to eat and some I need to throw out.  I didn’t need to go down the frozen food isle at the store so I plan to remedy that this week.  I’ve been on the lookout for a Slice of Chocolate cake at the store but all they seem to have is white cake.  Glad I have one in the freezer.  I don’t want to pull it out and eat it just yet. 

On my way home from the BBQ place I noticed that there was some junk on my windshield so I opted to go through the car wash.  No cute guys to look at.  I came home afterwards and dried things off.  Then went inside. 

About a half hour later it started to thunder it woke both cats up as it continued.  They looked all around I told them it was just thunder.  About fifteen minutes later it started pouring.  Looks like going through the car wash was the rain dance.  I’d love for it to not rain after I went through the car wash.  The good news is that the car is fine and still clean because it’s in the garage.  As it stands right now it won’t see the road again until Saturday. 

Watched a movie I’d seen before but at first glance it looked like something new.  It was called The Man and was on Starz.  It had Samuel L. Jackson and Eugene Levy in it.  Once it started playing I realized oh yeah I’ve seen this before.  I still finished it because it was just that good.  Both actors are favorites of mine and they both entertain as well as make me laugh. 

Went to watch some porn but had some technical difficulties, they were quick to remedy but once I did that I was out of the mood.  At first I thought the slight power blip we had took down my pc or that when I rebooted earlier in the day a service didn’t start but that wasn’t the case, it was a change I made earlier in the day.  Sometimes I’m my own worst enemy. 

Due to my morning nap I had problems falling asleep last night but eventually it happened.  Then I had nightmares.  Rudy came to my rescue but it was only 5a and there was no way I was getting up, not even for my full bladder.  I rolled over and went back to sleep for a short period of time tossing and turning.  Rudy came to curl up with me and wait me out until I gave in.  When it was time to get up he made a quick b-line to the kitchen. 

It’s very, very slow here on Monday.  I’ve got a meeting to attend in a bit and then another one later in the afternoon.  After the workout on Friday I am kind of glad that it’s slow.  I’ve been able to be away from the computer and I even got a nap in.  I really didn’t want to take a nap but got bored watching TV and it naturally happened.  Then the phone kept waking me up as email after email started to filter in.  I finally said enough and came back down.  I hope this slow theme is the theme for the week, if so it will almost be like being on vacation.  However, I’m not holding my breath I know eventually work will come in. 

Take care and thanks for stopping by.

Fun or Not ?

Welcome in and thank you for stopping by. 

The Saturday experience I planned for myself that I thought would be loads of fun was not.  What did you do?  I went to a comedy club.  I have never been to a club.  I was shocked when I was told there was a 2-drink minimum.  I got a water and the waitress was kind to me by only charging me for the 1 bottle of water.  It was a couple dollars and I just gave her $5 and called it a day.  Going to a club to me is quite similar to going to a bar just that you're all paying to see comedy as the main attraction while some people get hammered.  There were some hot guys there that were straight.  I saw gay guys in pairs but none of them did anything for me.  Of course, comedians trying to get to know their audience asked about gay, straight and single people.  I didn’t respond to any of that.  There was one single loud gay guy behind me and I wish that I was seated someplace else.  I can tell you why he’s single because he’s loud as fuck, he sounds really gay and he felt compelled to tell everyone he does drugs. 

I went to this event to have fun and do something different.  I kind of thought that maybe I’d meet someone but that turned out to be more hope than reality and it’s okay.  I really don’t want a drinker or druggie that is not my scene and those people turn me off.  It’s okay to drink a little bit but to get hammered on a regular basis, no thanks.  In some ways I think that I am better off alone despite the fact that it’s quite lonely. 

I got my haircut earlier in the day, it was time plus I wanted to look good I mean just in case.  Instead of paying the barber to shave my neck I did it myself and wow that went horribly wrong.  I have some serious razer burn and boy does it burn.  I looked at my neck last night before bed and it was bright beet red.  I don’t think I will ever shave my neck again.  It always bothers me regardless of who does it but I like the extra clean look.  However, if I could do it all over again, I’d just leave it like it was to save myself the pain. 

I had the opportunity to eat before I went over.  I used to work in the area years ago.  Wow things have really changed and the area is more vibrant as well as the fact they have installed some roundabouts, which I detest.  I had a restaurant in mind that I was going to visit however I went back and forth and wound up heading over on an empty stomach, thinking that I’d eat after and not before.  The main thing was getting there and getting seated.  Glad that I went with my gut on getting there early because that got me a decent seat.  Other people were packed in like sardines with barely enough room to breathe, while I had a little bit more room.  When the event ended it was late and dark out.  All I wanted to do was get the hell out of there.  I had to walk a lot from where I parked so I got in some exercise. 

On the way home I thought about my options for fast food.  Taco Bell and McDonald’s were the front runners but I really wanted Taco Bell.  I figured it would be cheaper.  Boy was I wrong.  Just a couple burritos and tacos and it was $15.  I brought them home and devoured the entire thing.  Rudy wanted some but I of course didn’t give in.  The cats were alone for 4 hours and they were quite happy to see me.  I told them I’d be coming back but I don’t think they believed me. 

After eating my so-called supper, I sat up for a bit and watched TV.  After about an hour I got ready for bed and took my sleeping pills.  I had to get up early this morning for work to do some testing since this was a patching weekend.  It’s just testing to make sure everything came back up after being rebooted.  Most of the stuff we use runs on the cloud so of course it’s going to be up; it’s not on premise but I test what I am supposed to just to cross the T’s and dot the I’s.  I hate getting up early for this purpose, especially on a Sunday but I slept in because I knew I would be tired. 

My usual breakfast spot was closed and that was depressing.  I wound up at IHOP and service was slow.  I was just about to walk out when I got seated.  Had an omelet and pancakes.  It was just okay nothing fantastic.  Thinking about supper it’s either Seafood or BBQ.  I was leaning for BBQ but Seafood (fish) sounds really good and the drive would be enjoyable, despite the fact that it’s hotter than hell outside. 

I am glad that I twisted my own arm to have the comedy club experience.  I used to walk by that place when I worked in the area and now, I know what it’s all about.  Might go back to the area just to hit up a restaurant or two.  I wish it was a more enjoyable experience.  I’ve got nothing else planned at the moment other than some massages scheduled up until my birthday week that should be a fun week and also expensive. 

Back to normal life and hoping for something exciting to happen.  I hope all is well in your world.  Until next time, take care.

Superman

Hi and welcome in.  It’s been a busy few days all work related.  My 3 day work week felt more like 5 days.  The co-worker I complain most often about tried to get me to do his job for him but I pushed back.  We were on a project and I had done my half.  He thought we could split his half of the project but that wouldn’t be fair to me and in times past I have always done the bulk of the work.  Not this time!

I am not looking forward to next week because I will be on-call but we did manage to get this project out of the way so I think or hope that that worst is behind me. 

As you might guess by the title of the post today I went to see Superman.  It was in 3D and that was nice.  I got in a few minutes late but the movie hadn’t started yet however the house lights were down so it was dark.  I managed to find my seat with no problem.  I’m not a Superman fan and the cast I referred to was just Skyler Gisondo who played Jimmy Olsen.  The movie however was interesting and I had a good time and feel like I got my monies worth, as if that’s possible.  I recommend the movie if you like Superman or just want to see a new movie.  

Afterwards it was much later than I had anticipated.  I went back to the nearby restaurant where a while back I asked a hot good looking waiter out only to find out that he was straight.  Well, he wasn’t there or if he was our paths didn’t cross.  I had a Ruben with fries.  It wasn’t exactly what I wanted but I needed to have something different and that did it.  It was an okay meal and I had a nice drive home.  Unlike on my way down where I was speeding and seemed to get behind all the slow pokes, isn’t that the way it always is when your in a hurry?

I wanted to make a couple more stops on the way home but I needed to go to the bathroom and just headed for home.  I can make those other stops tomorrow.  It was a better safe than sorry move.  Plus I knew it was past meal and treat time for the cats so they would be hungry as well as pleased to see me.  It was the right move to make. 

That cell phone case I spoke of in my last post, I wound up returning it because the metal was impeding the signal of the phone.  I loved how it looked and the fact it was a full body case but just didn’t like it messing with the signal.  I got 2 Felony cases that I have had my eyes on.  Granted they are only silicone covers, something is better than nothing.  I’m glad that I got them but still kind of want a full body case.  I put a screen protector back on the phone.  I’ve always had a screen cover and while I am super careful with my phone it’s another move made out of caution.  I can afford to replace the phone if something happens but I would much rather hang on to my money than buy a replacement device. 

Saw the new Madea movie on Netflix last night.  It’s pretty good but I didn’t laugh like I have at past Madea movies.  That too is a decent movie if your looking to watch a new movie at home or on the go and have Netflix. 

Considering that I slept in and napped as well I am not super eager to go to bed despite the clock continuing to tick closer and closer to normal shutdown time.  Mora is with me and snoring in the chair behind me.  I hope it’s a good dream she is having. 

Well on to see what kind of trouble I can find and then eventually back to bed.  I hope that your doing well and staying hydrated.  Summer sure is nice but I could do with a bit less humidity.  I am going to get the car washed tomorrow and I am sure that means it’s going to rain again, it’s like a sure fire guarantee. 

Take care!

Past and future fun

Hi and welcome in.  I do hope you are doing well.  I have enjoyed my time away from work and kind of wish that I would have taken the week but I already know that there is plenty of work waiting for me so the sooner I get back the better.  I’m telling myself it’s only 3 days and at least your not on call this week, look at the bright side, plus bossman is away. 

Sunday after my post I wound up checking on the card system at work and don’t you know it was down again.  I had to get out in the rain and drive over to reset it.  This time was super easy now that I knew exactly what to do.  I think there must have been another power blip that is the only explanation for why.  I thought about it after the storms moved in at home and I heard on the scanner that some folks had lost power.  At least I avoided a Monday disaster and saved some people from freaking out. 

I got my car washed again.  However, don’t you know after you wash the car it’s gonna rain.  I got caught in rain tonight so now I need to go back again.  I will at least be getting my monies worth out of this car wash membership. 

Monday I got the car serviced and had lunch with my friend.  We chatted but I forgot to ask him several questions I had thought of.  I hate it when my memory fails me. 

Went shopping on Amazon got a new wrist wrest for the computer and a mouse pad with some serious support.  A new cell phone case, cell phone holder for my desk, and cushion for my recliner.  I like all of the items I purchased.  However, my cell phone case is metal and that can interfere with signal quality.  My phone is sealed in the case so it’s fully protected which I like but I don’t want to give up any speed.  I’ve done some testing today and I think I am okay.  WIFI works great when I am at home.  It’s the cell carrier signal when I am out and about that I have concerns with, I want to get the speed I am entitled to and paying for.

Got together with my friends for dinner tonight and we both got caught in a rain storm.  I got the worst of it because I parked so far away from the entrance and then had to drive 30 minutes in wet clothes, not fun but hey I survived.  Had a decent meal as well. 

I’m going to see the new Superman on Saturday.  I am a fan of at least one of the guys in the cast and I think there are hot guys in it or so I hope.  I already purchased my ticket.  I’m going back to the same theater I went to a while back.  I will also hit up the same restaurant after the movie. 

I do plan on returning to the dating app scene but just haven’t committed to it yet. 

Tomorrow will be a busy day so I fully expect that I won’t have any play time and it will be a nothing but work day.  Just a heads up in case I don’t have time to post anything and/or Man Candy. 

Well up to enjoy what’s left of my evening.  Mora is begging me to get up stairs and honestly she is right I will be trapped in front of these two monitors so might as well escape while I can.  Speaking of the cats they still aren’t using their birthday present for anything other than a little scratching post and place to nap.  I’m still giving them a chance.  I have no plan to make it disappear regardless if they use it or not. 

Off to upstairs and to continue with what few hours of vacation time I have left.  I know it’s gonna suck tomorrow having to get up at a specific time.  I’ve been getting up feeding Rudy and going back to bed.  Mora just stays in bed with me, then when I do get up Rudy thinks he’s getting a second breakfast but he’s doesn’t. 

Take care and I will talk with you again when I can. 

2nd Time not as good

Happy Weekend, hope all is well. 

Friday I made it to my friends house, the gathering was super small me and their neighbor (who’s a little crazy).  Oddly enough both the neighbor and I are both widowers.  We had burgers, potato salad, baked beans, and corn on the cob.  A few hours later Ice Cream with Chocolate and Carmel sauces.  It was a decent meal.  The burger tasted strange. 

More than anything I enjoyed the company and being able to chat.  Originally when I walked in the door they were watching TV and she was interested in some murder mystery series.  I didn’t want to stick around for that and tried to leave but then conversation started as their neighbor left.  I soon found out that I wasn’t the only one who felt he is a little strange. 

They were planning on going out to dinner on Saturday and made the mistake of mentioning it to their neighbor, he invited himself along, told them where they were going to go and said he was paying the bill.  I asked them what time dinner was so that I wouldn’t miss it.  They both said we wish it was you instead of him we were going with. 

I got home just before dark and all of the fireworks started.  This year the cats were not happy with the noise.  Previous years it hasn’t bothered them but I suppose things change with time and age.  It was super noisy and someone put on a nice commercial type show at the end of the street, which you could see from the living room window.  I glanced out for a second and then went back to getting ready for bed. 

Saturday I made it to the buffet and despite them having dinner out they charged me the lunch price again.  I was so pleased about that because this time it was crap for food.  I ate mostly fried chicken, had one small piece of fish.  Lots of mashed potatoes that oddly enough tasted like they came from KFC, they were so good.  I saw something in the desert case and asked about it.  It was Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie.  I ordered a piece, wow that was the best part of the whole meal.  I left full not quite as satisfied as I was the last time.  They had pork but it was grilled I was counting on BBQ. 

I missed one of the turns in getting there so I had to go down a small one lane road and a car was coming from the opposite direction.  It was a tense moment but between the two of us we made sure that we got by each other tight as it was.  That little mistake ruined my clean car.  I looked like I went mudding or hit a puddle but it was all dust. 

Made it back home, late for the cats supper but they got fed and had some treats. 

Today (Sunday) I woke up early and headed out as per usual.  Paid for two older ladies breakfast as a good deed.  I haven’t bought anyone else’s meal in a long time.  That felt so good and when I made the announcement to them it went over rather well. 

Drove to the car wash and rather than spend another $25 for a wash I opted to join the club so I paid $40 and now I can wash my car during the month as many times as I want.  It’s recurring so the 6th of every month they will debit my card.  I can cancel anytime there is no long term contract.  There was a nice guy working the wash and he had a good looking ass.  He smiled at me but never caught me peeking.  Not sure if that was his normal smile or if he wanted to get it on.  I almost drove back through but opted to just keep on going.  My information pops up on a screen so if he’s interested he can always call me, but I’m not holding my breath. 

Made it to Target for more cat treats and a few other items.  Then on to the grocery store.  I really wanted to get started surfing the net but by the time I got home I saw the cats made a couple messes for me and I just wanted to relax and enjoy the morning like I normally do.  We (the cats and I) all took a nap in my recliner.  They were in between my legs and while it sounds uncomfortable it wasn’t bad. 

I got up after nap time, fed them lunch, cleaned up their messes, set out my pills and munched on a snack.  Finally made my way to the basement.  I had planned on joining a website for some new content with one of my favorite porn stars (Sam Bridle) that just dropped.  However, I talked myself out of it for the second time.  It’s not a question of money but rather something I want and really don’t need. 

Speaking of needs it’s about time to get up and swap loads of laundry, head out for supper and some cat food.  Thinking maybe of taking in a movie later kind of depends on how I feel. 

Tomorrow is car maintenance and lunch with my friend, that won’t be a super cheap day.  Other than that I don’t have any real plans for tomorrow or Tuesday.  Just relax and take it easy, probably go back to the car wash just for fun. 

I hope that your staying cool.  Hang in there the weekend will come around again soon!  Shame we have to wait until September for the next holiday in the US, that’s when I will be on vacation again.  Something to look forward to.  Take care!

Happy Birthday Kids

Morning!  While most of America is celebrating Independence Day I am thankful that today is a dual celebration for me.  Rudy & Mora are one year older, now 6.  That’s still young for a cat and they both jump, run and play just like they did when I brought them home when they were 3.  They have matured a little bit and I have noticed some subtle changes.  Both of them show every sign that they are happy, safe and loved as well as love me.  I am so thankful for them.

Last night just as things were winding down chaos erupted.  Work called they had a power blip and the stupid card system freaked out and wasn’t working.  That meant I had to go in, so no supper for me. 

I was there from 6:30p until 9:20p.  I wracked my brain tried everything I knew.  Threw up my hands and placed a service call to a vendor.  I recapped everything for my team and closed up shop and was about to head out.  I took one last look and I power cycled something that I had done before but not by it’s self.  Turns out that was the secret and damn if everything didn’t come back to life.  I made my rounds to test every door to confirm everything was working and it was.  I was both pissed off and happy at the same time.  I had to log back in, send emails to tell everyone that things were back to normal and cancel the service call.  Then for good measure before I left for good I made one more round to test and everything is still working.  People think that I am some kind of wizard because I can make the system sing.  Perhaps I am smarter than I am giving myself credit for but it all feels like dumb luck to me. 

At least now I can exhale and hopefully enjoy my time off.  I just logged in to confirm things are still working just because I want to be extra sure. 

That was not how I planned on spending my evening and I hated to be away from home for so long but much more driving home in the dark.  As I got close to home I hit something on the freeway, not sure if it was an animal or what.  I looked down for a split second to change songs and when I looked up there was a ball like figure that came flying at my front tire.  Just about the time I sluffed that off I was on the exit ramp and a opossum was rolling around in the lane, it had obviously been hit and was dying but I didn’t want to hit it.  It probably would have been the right thing to do but something about killing an animal just doesn’t sit right with me.  I thought about the poor thing out there suffering as I continued on my drive home.  The image of seeing it is seared in my memory and I wish it would leave. 

Once I arrived home my furry friends greeted me and I passed out their overdue treats.  I had a donut and some milk that was my so called supper.  Watched the news which I never do at night and it was filled with depressing stories so I moved over to YouTube.  Got stuck down a rabbit hole watching video after video and soon it was 11:30p.  I got up took my sleeping meds and brushed my teeth.  I was still very amped up but close to 1a I finally got drowsy and fell asleep. 

I told Rudy that I wouldn’t want to get out of bed come morning.  He took that into consideration and did his best to rouse me at 6a but I resisted and he just camped out on top of me.  My body naturally woke me up closer to 7a and Rudy was right there and he sprung to life.  Making his biscuits, licking my forehead and so happy.  We cuddled a little bit and then I got up.  Gave a little attention to Mora who was at my feet.  Then made my way to the kitchen to get breakfast for them. 

I got a shower and put on a pride flag shirt that I normally wear on the 4th, but I noticed the shirt wasn’t fully clean so I had to scrap it and put on something else.  Not what I wanted to do.  Headed out for breakfast and had what I call Patriotic French Toast.  It was Strawberry, Blueberry with whip cream on top.  Red White and Blue. Pretty good too and I had some eggs to go with it. 

After eating I hit up the post office and then the car wash, saw a hot guy working at the car wash.  Then filled up my tank and came home.  What an expensive holiday morning this has been. 

Looking very forward to seeing my friends this afternoon.  Lord knows I have plenty to yap about. Tomorrow afternoon I plan to return to the buffet for lupper hopefully I will time it just right so that I can enjoy a little lunch and then some supper.  I am mainly interested in their BBQ Pork but the sloppy joes and fried chicken sound really good as well. 

I am so glad that I am done with work for 5 days, just like I knew I wouldn’t want to get out of bed this morning, I know I won’t want to go back but I need the money.  It’s been quite the long week and I hope to enjoy this little break.  Perhaps I will see a hot guy, ask him out and life will just fall into place.  Hey no charge for dreaming!

Thanks for coming along on the ride as I document my life.  I know you’ve probably noticed there was no eye candy this week.  I plan to remedy that soon.  Right now I think it’s time to take off my clothes, bask in the quiet and take a nice morning nap.  Both cats are napping and nothing makes me drowsy quite like watching a cat sleep. 

In case your wondering no neither of them have used their birthday present.  They get in it and once it moves they freak out and jump out.  I do think it was a waste of money.  I could disassemble it and send it back but that is more work than just eating the financial loss.  Besides that maybe just maybe one day they will use it as it was intended.  Once again no charge for dreaming. 

Take care, be safe and stay cool.  I look forward to our next chat. 

Cat Treadmill

Morning!  Things got really busy yesterday afternoon.  That acquisition I spoke of turns out things are heating up and they had to let the cat out of the bag so my co-worker knows now.  There was a conference call we had to join and I asked most of the questions.  I kind of put him on the spot and asked him to speak up, he said a few words but nothing of meaning.  I know he’s shaking in his pants right now.  He always freaks out and stresses when we have to onboard a large group of people.  However, this one will be the largest between the two of us that we have done.  I have done something close to this by myself but I think that this will be an all time record for me as well.  Sounds like things will be heating up next week, glad that I took two days off.  God forbid if I was out of commission they would be so screwed.  Guess it’s a good thing they got me.  Here’s hoping we can move past this quickly. 

There is another clusterfuck on the horizon next month and yet another in the distance that I suspect will be approaching as we near the end of the year or start of next year.  I don’t look forward to either of these but like past clusters I will survive, just might not be happy but I will make it.  Business does some awful dumb things. 

Ah well, bossman is on his vacation and won’t be back for a little over a week and that will be a nice vacation hopefully for me not having to hear his voice.  He added us to an existing project so I now have conference calls to join weekly and the sound of the voice of the lady who runs the call makes me want to cut off my ears.  Her voice is like nails on a chalk board and she sounds ditzy.  I dread any voice contact with her.  I’m not a fan of my bosses voice either but between the two of them his sounds way better. Another meeting on my calendar just what I didn’t need. 

I got so involved with work that I totally forgot about the cats present.  I was able to wrap up and head up around 3p.  Rudy was in my lap when the FedEx truck pulled up and he perked up and watched the driver like a hawk.  He was really interested in what the man was doing.  Rudy didn’t make a sound but I watched his eyes get very large and his head move around so he could see a bit better.  He never left my lap the whole time. 

I went to grab the package off the porch and it was heavier than it looked.  I estimate it was around 30 pounds.  I grabbed a knife and sliced it open.  Almost got Mora in the process, she loves to get in the way.  Thank God nothing bad happened.  Anyway I opened it up and of course I had to put it together.  Well me and assembly required are words that usually don’t mix.  This looked simple enough it’s just plastic that snaps together.  Very rigid plastic.  It took me a little bit but I got it together.  The cats were more interested in the box and the liner of the treadmill.  Eventually I was able to get it all together, put the liner in.  Gave it a spin and the cats came over to inspect it.  They weren’t thrilled about the spinning.  They both think that it’s a scratching post and have used their claws on it.  Rudy has fallen asleep in it twice.  I still have a little hope left but I honestly think I wasted my money on this.  Rudy continues to play with the box it came in more. 

Both cats are pretty smart so I am hopeful that they will catch on eventually to what it does and how they can use it.  I am glad that I didn’t pour in hundreds of dollars for this or it would be going back. 

Watched a movie on Amazon last night called According to Otto.  It sounded interesting a boy coming out to his family.  It was kind of a rom-com and I wish I would have watched something else but it was a way to pass the evening. 

Had the BBQ Pork and for once I didn’t gulp it all down.  I’ve got some saved and thinking of having it for lunch.  I’ve got Spaghetti next up for supper. 

I’m thinking that today should be a little bit more relaxing than yesterday or so I hope as things wind down for the holiday weekend.  I am sure a lot of people took the day off.

Looking forward to seeing friends tomorrow and hopefully it won’t be terribly noisy come night time.  People have already started with fireworks but they start around 9 or 10p.  I am sure that it will be noisy around here for a couple days.  The police scanner will be busy as well playing America’s favorite annual game.  Is it gunshots or fireworks? 

Today is also the last day that some people will have 5 fingers or possibly two hands, because they didn’t know what they were doing with fireworks.  I like watching the commercial shows but have no interest in consumer grade fireworks or what neighbors play with, just don’t set my house or yard on fire.  I don’t think that’s asking too much. 

Hope it’s a great day for you.  Take care!

Sort of like taking the day off

Morning!  Ah, yesterday was almost like I took the day off.  I had a little bit of work in the morning and some sprinkled in here and there in the early afternoon.  However, for the most part once the meetings were out of the way it was almost like I had the day off.  I spent a lot of time away from the computer relaxing.  I watched TV and lounged with the cats, even took a nap or two – brief as they were.  The phone never stops going off, although I did manage to make a whole hour with no email which is pretty rare during the work day. 

I anticipate that today will be largely most of the same.  I have a mid-morning meeting.  My morning work little as it was is done.  Unless something comes rolling in I am pretty well done for the day and it’s only 8a.  Not bad at all.  I will enjoy and savor as much away time as I can get. 

Yesterday I learned that we made an acquisition and soon I will be super busy onboarding a large bunch of people.  Sadly I will have to share the load with my mistake making colleague which will sort of lighten the load on me but I would much rather do the whole thing myself because then I would know it is done right.  I apparently have earned enough respect that I got the inside scoop for once.  I wanted to tell my mistake making colleague so he could be prepared but bossman said not to it’s a super secret for now but that won’t last terribly long.  Bossman seems to think that it will take me and the mistake maker out of commission for a couple weeks.  I think maybe a few days to possibly a week at most.  Apparently he still has no clue as to how efficient I am and how I can plow through tasks like a hot knife through butter.  Yeah I get a little overwhelmed but I get the job done every time without fail.  I only pray that there is enough time planned when the big dogs are planning on a deadline.  I am not super excited by the news but kind of pleased that I have the inside scoop and I actually knew before my boss did. 

Last nights dinner was nothing I planned on.  Chips, Cheese and Sour Cream.  Then I had a French Toast Fritter to help cool off my mouth.  Tonight I am having that BBQ Pork that I bought.

Watching TV and kind of bored last night.  The phone rang and of all people to call me it was The Police.  Apparently they thought there was some mix up with my ride along paperwork and they were calling to apologize and see if I was still interested in a ride along.  Honesty is the best policy, especially when your dealing with the law.  I told the guy that I had a ride along, when it was and that I was extended the opportunity to come back because my experience was cut short.  I told the gentleman that I was highly considering scheduling another one because there wasn’t a whole lot of action the first go round.  He said to give them a call if I was interested in a second go round and that I cleared the situation up for him.  Working nights he wasn’t able to communicate with the others involved in the process which explained the call.  Hindsight being 20/20 now I should have just had him set something up for me.  The call was a complete surprise and something that I never imagined I’d get.  I thought for sure he was calling to give me some bad news, even though I know that is typically delivered in person.  I kind of held my breath at the start of the call. 

I got in a little bit of play time with the cats before bed.  Rudy looked at Mora spinning ball toy like he wanted to play with that.  I gave it a spin and she heard it.  She came running up as if to say what are you doing, that’s mine.  She watched us but Rudy wouldn’t touch the toy.  Mora and I played a bit as she kept a watchful eye on her toy.  I passed out some cat nip when they both lost interest and that kept them both occupied and I was able to retire for the evening. 

It’s been a little bit cooler here and the AC hasn’t been running quite as much but all good things must come to an end and as we get closer to the weekend the humidity will return and things will heat up once again.  Just as long as the sun shines for most of the time I have off on my extended weekend I will be a happy camper, despite not liking it super hot.  The AC in the car feels so good with the heat beating down it’s like that perfect mix of salty & sweet. 

Grabbing my phone (aka electronic leash) and heading up to relax until I am needed or meeting time rolls around.  It feels a little extra sinful knowing that I am being paid more while I am loafing.  However, I think of all of the sweat I poured in and all of the shit I have been through and I realize that I have earned every penny of what I am being paid.  Truth be told I am probably slightly underpaid but I’m not rocking the boat on that one.  I will just keep on keeping on. 

Stay cool, hydrated and be well.  Have a pleasant day!

Not a good start :(

Hi and welcome.  As you can gather by the title today is not starting out well for me.  Minor trivial stuff but it all kind of adds up. 

The biggest disappointment is that Banana Guide went offline.  This is a site where I could get a sneak peak by way of photos of the latest gay porn.  The scenes that appealed to me I saved the photos since they were free.  The studios released the content as teasers to entice people to visit.  The site also had discounts on gay porn.  I started my day off looking and downloading photos.  This morning when I went to visit the bookmark I got a note saying the page went off line due to many age verification laws across the US.  I’m sure that it makes some lawmakers happy but lots of guys like me will be disappointed.  I’ve looked for an alternative site but no luck.  If you know of a similar site feel free to leave it in the comments.  For clarity they only had photos which is all I am looking for. 

Next disappointment was that I tried to access my work laptop and it still showing offline despite my visit over the weekend to reboot it and ensure it was back online.  Not sure if something went haywire after I left or if there was a network change made so that I can no longer access it.  Unfortunately this means that I need to make another trip over to the office.  I’ll get there over the weekend to see if I can’t get this sorted out. 

Tried a new Chex cereal Strawberry & Vanilla for breakfast.  It was pretty good.  Not a hard smack of flavor its subtle but still good. 

I saw a suggestion in a YouTube clip of something to try.  Vanilla Ice Cream, drizzle a bit of Olive Oil and sprinkle with Sea Salt.  It’s supposed to be good.  Not sure if I will ever try this because the ice cream is the only thing that I buy periodically.  I have no need for the other items.  If you have them feel free to give it a try and let me know if it’s as good as the clip on You Tube says it is. 

Enjoyed my Mexican food last night, played on the computer a little bit when I got home but I was quick to get back upstairs since I spend most of my week in front of these screens.  Glad that I am no longer on call that is about the best thing that has happened thus far on this Monday. 

Got a meeting at 10a for a cluster of a project that will be kicking off soon.  It’s gonna be a huge mess but this is one of those things I have to go along with.  It’s kind of unnecessary and a large waste of time and money but thankfully for me it only impacts me on the time side.  Not looking forward to this at all.  Other than this it should be a fairly quiet and easy Monday. 

Glad that it’s a short week if only by 1 day.  Looking very forward to the weekend and having 5 days off, I know come next Wednesday I won’t want to go back.  I see there is a premier of the new Superman movie next Tuesday but it’s later in the evening.  I’m not a Superman fan but I hear that the movie is packed with stars that I have an interest in and therefore I kind of want to see it.  It’s one of those things that if I see it great and if I don’t well eventually it will make it’s way to my home TV screen but it will take longer. 

Here’s hoping your Monday is off to a better start than mine.  Take care, stay cool and hydrated.  Talk with you all again soon!

Two mornings in a row

Hey there, welcome in.  This morning I woke up to the same thing I was greeted with yesterday morning, no internet.  I saw the red light flashing on my kitchen WAP (Wireless Access Point) and that was my sign that the internet was out.  Magically by rebooting the modem things came back to life just like yesterday.  For good measure I cycled my router as well.  In the hopes that tomorrow morning things will be different.  If this keeps happening I am inclined to think that the modem is going south and will get a replacement.  However, I really don’t want to do that unless it’s absolutely necessary.  Activating a new modem is not an easy task, like it should be.  I usually wind up having to call someone at the cable company and I just despite calling any large company.  The hold time, telling them your issue, getting transferred or having to jump through unnecessary steps to get them to do what you need them to do. 

Watched a Queer As Folk reunion show last night, that was entertaining.  I do miss that show, I am glad that I was young enough to watch it week by week year by year as it aired.  I’ve got the full collection on DVD so I can re-watch anytime I want to.  It was truly a groundbreaking and game changing show.  Me and my late spouse would scramble to make it to the basement sometimes with snacks and other times not.  It was part of a Sunday routine for us and we both look forward to it and enjoyed it very much.  It was quite the surprise to see the reunion appear in my You Tube feed, glad it did.  For once the algorithm got something right. 

I was listening to the police scanner last night and wow, it was one traffic accident after another.  Until I turned it off.  That is not unusual for the way people drive around here.  Some thing that a red light is a mere suggestion that you should STOP and they blow right through intersections.  That’s usually how it happens but not always.  I’ve learned to look before I move from a stopped position, just because the light turned green doesn’t mean it’s safe to proceed.  I get that people are in a hurry but jeez if you wreck your not only messing up your day but someone else’s day too.  Vehicles can always be replaced but people can’t be and we have had quite a few fatal accidents. 

Bossman is traveling today but we still have a call for this afternoon.  I don’t really have anything to talk about other than trying to find out about my pay raise.  I am hopeful for a calm rest of the week. 

Speaking of meetings that all hands meeting yesterday, it was announced as I expected we are still making money hand over fist.  Looks like it’s going to be another record breaking year.  That’s good news for me since we have profit sharing, even if I only get a couple thousand dollars it’s free money!

The cats are doing well, seems like both of their coats have gotten a bit darker since they have been sunbathing.  Sometimes Mora appears to be darker to me than Rudy.  They both love their time with me and I enjoy giving each of them a little attention.  They got into it last night with each other.  Rudy started it as usual and Mora finished it.  They are all back to normal good terms this morning, until the cycle repeats again. 

I had a little bit of awake time last night/early this morning.  I just laid in bed and tried to go back to sleep.  Rudy came up to check on me and when I reached out to pet him I think it caught him off guard.  He let me pet him and then dashed away.  He returned a little bit later and I didn’t move, then he climbed on top of me.  I think he checks to see if I am asleep sometimes before he decided to climb on top of me and hang out until I wake up.  He’s quite the unique cat and I really hope he keeps up his morning routine because I enjoy waking up to see his face.  Mora is usually close by but not always.  I greet her as soon as I see her. 

Enjoyed 1/2 of the burrito last night and looking forward to the other half tonight.  I kind of wanted the other 1/2 last night but talked myself out of it.  Polished off the chocolate cake instead. 

Hope you had a great day and that today is even better.  Take care!

The land of confusion

Hey, hope all is well.  Last night was a little dramatic for me.  Part of my job involves onboarding and offboarding people or in simpler terms turning access on or off.  I got a note that someone was leaving in the afternoon and it’s kind of unusual for people to leave the same day the notice is published but it does happen.  I got some clarification on timing and was told to turn them off at the end of the day.  Well time zones play into this and it was way later here.  Still I complied with the request.  An hour later when I am starting to wind down my phone starts to go bananas.  I see all of these emails from people who are confused and say that this person shouldn’t have been turned off.  Then I jumped on a couple calls to get further clarification.  This is quite the awkward position to be in and honestly in all of the time I have been doing this I have never been asked to turn someone back on after I have turned them off.  However, there is always a first time for everything and I was told to turn them back on.  I don’t know how you can confuse Tuesday with Friday but that’s apparently what happened.  The person is leaving on Friday.  I got them all turned back on and it was a little bit of a scramble.  Then I talked with the person and explained things and all was well. 

Nothing like having an adrenaline rush while trying to get ready for bed and then ultimately fall asleep.  I was so pumped it was crazy but eventually the rush went away I was able to focus on some TV and the cats decided to fight a little bit.  I was in bed within my normal window and asleep shortly there after.  I didn’t enjoy the confusion and it was quite frustrating.  However I can assure you that if I was the one who made the mistake someone would be there to BBQ my ass. 

Woke up this morning to no internet.  That meant fighting with my desktop computer to connect to my phone (using it as a hotspot).  Eventually I got it to work which is more progress than I have ever made before.  I was about to head up and grab my laptop which has no issues connecting to my phone.  Ah technology when it works as designed it’s great but those times when it doesn’t it’s no so much fun. 

Well I wound up exposing myself when my home connection came back to life.  My phone reverted back to WIFI instead of staying on a carrier signal and now the logs at work show that I am working from home today, which is a day mandated to be in the office.  I’m not calling any attention to it just moving on like I normally do every other Wednesday. 

I know it’s only mid-week but I am so out of gas and tired.  Last night did me in.  Then once I got connected I had a bunch of crap to wade through but finally got a break.  I hope that things stay calm but I have a feeling that the calm might be over. 

Got a meeting with the boss and then an all hands meeting this afternoon to find out how the company is doing.  I am sure that were raking in money hand over fist and all is well.  Both of these meetings could probably be summed up in a quick email but some people just like to yap.  In case you haven’t figured it out I am not a huge fan of meetings.  However, on those rare cases where they are actually productive and you glean some insight they can be quite useful but that only seems to happen once in a blue moon.  Most of the meetings I go to are time wasters and quite boring. 

In other news, I finished off the pizza last night and was quite full.  I ate a bit more than I should.  I could have easily made the left overs last another night but was eager to move on.  Tonight I have a Burrito to slice into and tackle.  I will divide that in half and make two meals out of it.  Still working on the Cannoli Chips & Dip as well as a piece of Chocolate Cake left over from last week. 

We got a couple pop up storms last evening but they didn’t last long and really caught me off guard.  Some other folks weren’t so lucky yesterday a transformer blew and left a lot of people in the dark, not good anytime but especially in the extreme heat.  Glad that wasn’t us. 

Ho hum I guess it’s back to beating the old drum so off to work I go because I owe, I owe, I owe.  Take care of yourself.  Stay cool & hydrated.  Talk with you all again soon!

Hot Summer Day

Well, Monday is behind us.  Hope it wasn’t too bad for you.  Mine was actually okay.  It wasn’t a super busy day but there was some work to be done.  By 3:30p I was able to head up and get logged in from my laptop to keep a watch on things at work.  Thankfully, nothing surfaced and my day was done. 

My YouTube feed is a little jacked up but it’s slowly working it’s way back to normal.  Search for one thing and watch one video and the algorithm thinks it found a new interest of yours so it rearranges things.  Anyway I saw a 20/20 Episode that looked appealing so I tuned in.  Not sure if your familiar with the case of Blaze Bernstein, he was murdered in 2018 by a classmate because he was gay (and also Jewish).  The story started off and I was like yeah I remember this.  Then I saw more recent updates for how the case turned out.  His killer was convicted.  Technology helped to solve the case more specifically Snap Chat as well as cell phone tracking.  It was still heartbreaking to hear the details play out and I felt so bad for Blaze and his family.  He died a horrible death and based on what I know from watching a lot of crime drama, his classmate was more than likely in love with him.  Poor kid just entered college and had his whole life ahead of him. 

After that was done I wasn’t sure of what to watch.  Wound up watching a if you grew up in the 70’s video.  They talked about some familiar things like Fruit Stripe Gum, Orange Tupperware, Iron on Patches, and TV Stations signing off for the night among other things.  It was interesting and made me wonder if my brother kept the Tupperware we grew up with or if he threw it out.  That was some good stuff and we ate a bunch of meals served in Tupperware.  Ah to be young again. 

The cats were extra hyper last night.  I fed them supper early and got my supper early as well.  I figured that would calm them down but it only served to rev Mora up.  She goes nuts in the time that lapses between supper and treat time.  She bugs me and does her level best to grate on my last nerve because she knows if she does that I will give in and they get treats early.  Well, it worked and then they both were out like lights but not before having some playtime of their own chasing each other around the house.  They both have a birthday coming up next week and I am already talking to them about it. 

I started feeling a little more lousy as the evening wore on and I was really dreading waking up this morning because I figured that I would be ill.  However, I turned off the ceiling fan, slept pretty good and woke up feeling okay.  I think there is still some bug in me but it’s working it’s way out.  I will be turning the fan off at night, that is normally what gets me.  I slept with it on for a month and no issues which is why I figured that I out grew that but apparently that’s not the case. 

I’ve got 3 days of interaction with my boss and I am not thrilled about that at all.  We have meetings today and tomorrow.  Then our useless check in call on Thursday afternoon, which is a waste of time.  However, I hope that maybe he has information on my pay raise, fingers crossed.  It’s about that time where we get that information.  Although in years past we have had to wait until mid to late July.  I’m only working for the money like most people. 

Grass crew showed up and mowed the lawn.  I haven’t gotten a bill from them in months and when it finally hits it’s gonna be big.  Thankfully I have money set aside automatically each month so I don’t miss it.  I like to settle my bills as quickly as possible I don’t like things lingering.  Don’t get me wrong I hate sending money out the door but I am so thankful that I have it to send.  I remember the rough times where I had to scrimp and hold my breath and barely squeaked by.  I much prefer not having to worry about it. 

Another hot summer day as time marches on.  I just think in a few months how cold it will be outside and we will be wanting it warm again.  Shame we can’t have it just right where it’s comfortable for everyone year round – the power company would hate that.  Just imagine though not having to use heat or ac on a regular basis, sounds like some kind of utopia to me. 

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