Jinx

Morning!

I jinxed myself yesterday by saying in a meeting that things were calm and the normal stuff that we deal with had slowed down.  Well just before lunch a wave of work poured in and it started off easy but quickly mounted.  I looked at the clock when I was done and it was 3p.  Glad that I went by Rudy’s clock yesterday and ate at 11a. 

After that the rest of the day was pretty much a breeze.  We have a meeting tomorrow to say goodbye to a colleague that is retiring.  We were all told we need to have video on for that meeting.  I tested my camera on my laptop and had to fight a little bit with my antivirus software but I got it working.  Funny thing if I join Zoom from the laptop directly I can have a virtual background.  If I go through the work system I can’t.  I thought it was rather odd.  I hope that I can keep my composure during the meeting.  I’m not a huge fan of goodbyes.  I would have thought that we as a team would have gotten him a card or something but nope.  Glad I sent him a card on my own accord, it’s the right thing to do.  Our boss is so random when it comes to cards.  He used to send them out like they were Kleenex and now nothing, not even a Christmas card. 

Flipping through YouTube videos yesterday once things settled back down, I saw that James Van der Beek passed away.  Sad he was so young and fought quite the battle with colo rectal cancer.  Sounds quite unpleasant.  He was hot especially when he was younger but I never had a crush on him per se.  48 such a young age.  Hope he’s resting in peace. 

Had a muscle knot last night in my back that was bothering me.  I opted to break out the cupping set and made sure infrared was turned off.  It helped but Rudy became interested in this device that was on my back.  He sniffed and pawed at it then just watched it work it’s magic.  Eventually he got sleepy and drifted off while sitting next to me.  Of course I didn’t want to move but when my time was up I wanted that thing off my back so I had to wake him.

Slept okay for the most part just didn’t feel highly rested when I woke up and my body got me up at 5a but I tossed for an hour and eventually got up at 6a just to use the bathroom.  Rudy hated to see me climb back in bed because he was ready for breakfast.  However, I made him wait a little bit before I got going. 

Normally getting up early usually works to my advantage because there is some crisis at work that I didn’t know about and I need to take care of it or it unfolds just after I log on.  Thus far it’s peaceful and it’s been over an hour, hopefully that can be the theme for the day. 

I am all caught up and just twiddling my thumbs so I will probably go up and get logged in to be near the cats.  Maybe even try to take a nap.  Only real thing on the agenda today is to get the trash out. 

Hope all is warm and well in your neck of the woods.   

 

 

Man Candy - 10 out of 10

Cha-Ching

Morning!

Woke up to a nice surprise from the IRS.  My refund was deposited this morning.  I totally didn’t expect it that fast.  Now I’m only waiting on a state refund.  Since I had to mail that return I have to allow 10 weeks for them to get it and then who knows how long before processing.  However, I am hopeful that by this time next month I will have that money.  I’m certainly not banking on it though. 

Forgot about the pizza last night and totally focused on store bought Lasagna.  It was so good but very rich, I was only able to eat half of it.  Today I’ve got pizza for lunch and Lasagna for supper.  Not bad!  Just wish I had some Cheese Garlic Bread to go with it. 

Had Potato Soup with Cheese & Crackers yesterday for lunch.  I wasn’t really full but as soon as I was done work started hopping.  When things calmed down about an hour later I fetched some yogurt and sat on the couch.  Rudy was sleeping next to me and as soon as I sat down he woke up hearing me tear into the package.  He got a good sniff but no yogurt for him.  I just gently pushed him away and he folded like a cheap chair and went right back to sleep.  I was amazed that he gave up so easily and quickly too. 

We had a nice warm up yesterday and the snow is gone.  You still see a patch here or there but I can see my front yard again.  I’ve got to call a landscaper to come trim bushes and pickup stick from last year.  The guy I called last year, clearly isn’t coming.  He said he would and he’s known for being super late but I’m not giving him too much more time.  Looking at the calendar Spring will be here next month.  I’m not ready for it just because it means more sneezing, closer to grass cutting time. 

My colleague that is retiring on Friday called me yesterday to let me know that he got my card.  I mentioned it in an email I sent to him.  I’m guessing he has a mail slot or some place to check.  Whereas in my office if I get something they have always brought it to my desk, even before I had an actual office.  I just wanted to make sure that he got the card.  I honestly wish I was retiring too, the older I get and the longer I work the more I am ready to be done with it.  I realize that work and the cats are what’s keeping me going but honestly I think I would be okay with money flowing in and not actually having to deal with the BS of work.  Ah well I can dream.  Not looking forward to Friday when we get to say our goodbyes but it’s all part of the job.

Still watching Schitts Creek and the occasional You Tube video to throw in some variety.  Also still working a bit in the morning at my desk and then heading up and spending the bulk of the day upstairs hunched over my laptop and with the cats.  They seem to enjoy it and I like to see the sunshine.  It’s also nice to see them both sunbathe and nap by the window as they soak it all in.  We both seem to have our own set of routines.

One meeting on the books for today and who knows what else will roll in.  I’d like calm and drama free for the rest of the week.  Again I can dream, but that’s a bit closer to reality. 

Hope all is well in your world!

Not bad

Morning!

Yesterday morning did get a little hectic but I was able to head up at Rudy’s lunch time, which is 11a.  I got him fed and then my phone started with emails.  I had to get logged in upstairs and take care of a few things before I was able to enjoy my lunch. 

I had a Cup of Chili that I got from the store made by Panera.  I had my doubts but wow it was good.  It’s close to or better than Wendy’s which is saying something in my book.  I added Cheese and had Crackers.  Only thing I forgot was Sour Cream.  It was a tad on the spicy side but so very good.  I will be getting more of it. 

Settled in upstairs, the cats did their running after lunch and then settled down to enjoy the sunshine and take naps.  Meanwhile I watched TV and kept an eye on things at work. 

It wasn’t terribly busy but I did have some work to take care of.  Saw that a manager from out of town was visiting my office.  I’m a little scared that if he sticks around for a couple days that might out my little secret.  While I could have gone in today to potentially avoid that I opted to just keep it business as usual.  I can cover myself for a couple days or even this week with an excuse that will be plausible if it should come up.

Today is meeting day.  We have an onslaught of them in a few hours and I hope that the boss will just lump them all together and we can get them out of the way.  Then break for lunch and have one more meeting and be done with it for the day.  The less I have to hear his voice the better for me. 

Snow is melting here and Rain is in the forecast for Saturday.  Figures since I just washed my vehicle before putting it away on Sunday.  Rain always follows snow eventually to wash it all away.  Speaking of which I still am waiting for that bill from the guy who cleaned my driveway.  I’m giving him a bit more then I’m just going to send him a check for what I think it’s worth and if that’s not enough he can ask for more.  I just hate having this hanging over my head.  Maybe it’s free or he had no intentions of sending me a bill which would be nice but I am not making any assumptions.  However, you’d think he’d be a bit more aggressive about collecting, I know I would if someone owed me. 

Still watching Schitts Creek, TV right now is highly boring and there isn’t much on.  It’s like Winter break or something for TV.  Once the weather turns nice everything will be back on but people will want to be outside and not watching TV. 

Supper for me was left over pizza and I should be finishing it up tonight.  Then I will be left with frozen food and soup.  I won’t starve that’s for sure.  I took out some Brownies that I froze back in December.  Man they were fresh and good.  I’ve got plenty left and glad to know that they are keeping but I don’t want to leave all of them frozen for too long. 

That’s all I have at the moment, take care and thanks for stopping by!

Charlie

I made it for pizza and the place was very empty.  There were a ton of carry out orders.  Got the vehicle washed while I was out and then home with my left over pizza. 

By the time I got settled the Super Bowl had started by a half hour.  I got to see Charlie Puth sing the National Anthem.  I think he did a good job.  That was all I cared about Football related. 

I sat and watched Schitts Creek and looked at social media on my phone.  Mora snuggled up with me and got some attention.  Eventually they both asked for treats and I gave in.  I had left over Carrot Cake and then we came back to watch more Schitts Creek. 

I got woozy and really wanted a shower.  I told myself even if you don’t feel like it, do it anyway.  Well that feeling came and I said hell it can wait until tomorrow.  I was just tired and wanted to climb in bed. 

I really didn’t want to play with the cats before bed but Rudy begged with all of the salesman skills he had and I caved in.  Both cats enjoyed themselves.  Then we settled in for the night. 

Had more strange dreams but overall got a decent nights sleep.  Rudy kept watch over me all night long.  Mora kept watch outside my door, one of her many usual spots. 

Breakfast is done.  I got caught up at work.  The mistake maker called in sick.  I don’t feel the best but I am making it.  I’ve kind of held myself together with duct tape and bubble gum.  I know there is something percolating inside of me and I hope that it just goes away.  Downtime sounds nice but today I am not to the point where I want to call it. 

Peeking ahead the week doesn’t look that bad if I go by my calendar alone.  However, it’s the stuff that isn’t on my calendar that I have to prepare for.  Thus far it’s been calm, I hope that theme continues.  Maybe people are hung over or depressed from the Super bowl.  I just hope for a good week with no BS but I am sure that there will be some. 

Take care and I hope it’s a great day and week 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!

Expensive & Long Day

Woke up around my normal time, Rudy was pleased to see me as always and gave me his usual morning greeting. We made it to the kitchen where I got breakfast ready for him and his sister. Then I worked on getting my breakfast. I took a shower after that and then I got dressed. I had maybe 15 minutes to spare before it was time to leave. I spent that time giving attention to both cats.

Left and arrived at the haircut place on time. As usual despite having a set appointment I was taken late. I absolutely hate that if I show up 5 minutes late, they cancel the appointment (I only have done that one time). If they are late nothing is done.

Right after my haircut I knew I’d be super early, but I decided to hit up the tire shop. I thought the sooner I get there, the sooner I will get to be on my way. Boy, was I wrong about that! They took my vehicle 15 minutes after my set appointment; I wasn’t happy about that. After an hour I started to wonder what they were doing. A guy came out to tell me that they couldn’t do the alignment because a tie rod was broken. They could fix it and then could do the alignment. They told me they could do it today so I said might as well. I was kind of glad that I stopped in. I didn’t have any problems or notice any issues prior to stopping in. I spent 4 hours total there and the price went up $400. My appointment was set for 9a. I left a little after 1p.

The waiting room was freezing cold. The upper half of my body was nice and warm thanks to the sweater I wore. The lower half of my body was super cold. I got to see a hot guy that I really liked but I didn’t make any moves. About an hour before I left a guy that appeared to me to obviously be gay walked in. I wasn’t attracted to him but almost chatted with him. Sitting in silence for 4 hours with nothing to drink and really nothing to do was horribly boring. I didn’t plan on being held hostage for quite that long.

Once I got out of there, I headed for the post office. The theme for today’s mail was data breaches. I got to sign up for more credit monitoring – yippie, just what I wanted to do. After that I headed home for a bit.

The ride is smooth and much quieter than I had been used to. The steering seems a little loose to me, but I suppose I will adjust with time.

I made a trip to the office, had a package to put away. I was glad that I went over. However, I wished I would have taken a different way home. Out of nowhere I hit a decent-sized pothole. I was pissed, $200 for a 4-wheel alignment down the tubes. The vehicle took it and didn’t feel like anything was wrong, but it just made me angry. I’m sure things aren’t out of line.

I hit up Red Lobster on the way home, they had a decent wait time. Saw a hot busboy who if he would have made his way by me a second time, I planned on giving him a compliment on how good looking he was. Unfortunately, he never made his way by me. Service was poor but only because they were busy and I’m sure my waitress had a million tables. I had to wait longer than I wanted for a drink refill. The food was out quick given the circumstances. It wasn’t piping hot, but it was enjoyable. I was never so happy to be on my way home.

I am exhausted, been up since 6a. No nap and just on. I’m working on getting my bedding through the laundry. Once that is completed, I am tempted to call it a day. However, if I do that I would surely be up in a few hours with a bad case of insomnia. I will stay up as long as I can until hopefully it’s closer to normal bedtime. I have a feeling I will fall asleep rather quickly. I felt a bit better after I had supper but still, I am exhausted.

Tomorrow I just have my usual morning errands to run and then figure out what I want to eat for supper and where to get it. I’m already looking forward to a nap!

So not ready for next week. It’s my turn back on-call and extra laser focused. I thought about that when I was lounging on Thursday. This is the last week for my older colleague, he will retire on Friday the 13^th, of all days. The boss will be on-call when my week is done, which means everyone is on-call, because he can’t possibly do his job and pick up on-call through the day. He’s fine after hours just during the day he needs a hand. I am not planning on jumping and hogging the work, I very much plan to share the load and try to be relaxed. Going the extra mile and helping like I usually do is a path to burnout and the more I take, the more the fuck up I will be stuck with will let me take. I honestly don’t look forward to the boss being on call ever. I hope that we find a replacement sooner rather than later but I’m preparing myself for it to be 6 very long months. The boss thinks it will only be 3 months or less. I’ve been down this road before, and I know the wheels move very slowly and no one is in any hurry; that’s kind of why I figure I might not get in a hurry to take work.

For now, it’s just one day at a time and enjoying the rest of the weekend. Hope you are having a good weekend. If you’re a Football Fan and interested in The Super Bowl, I hope that your team wins.

Take care and stay warm!

Friday

Hello,

Hope your happy and doing well on this Fantastic Friday!  If your a football fan it’s Super Bowl weekend so you have the big game to look forward to on Sunday.  As for me, I’m not a football fan but I am recording the Super Bowl for one reason.  Charlie Puth is singing the National Anthem and I want to hear that. 

PRO TIP – If you grocery shop on Sunday and don’t need chips or any type of snack food, you can breeze through the store while the game is on.  The place will be next to empty.  Found this out years ago. 

Yesterday was a relaxing day for me.  I didn’t have much going on at work and just elected to stay up stairs all day long.  Logged in took care of a couple things and then headed back to bed.  Where in typical fashion as soon as I managed to fall asleep the phone kept waking me up.  I was pissed but eventually got up and sat next to the computer, that calmed down the rapid fire emails, all of which were spam to me.  With nothing to do the day lingered and seemed like it would never end but eventually it did. 

The cats enjoyed me sticking with them but I think they were wondering if I would ever disappear.  I did in fact for a brief moment disappear when I took the trash bin out to the curb.  Then right back inside. 

Had a frozen Mexican Dinner last night for supper.  It was on the spicy side for my pallet.  I cooled off with some carrot cake and an anti-acid pill. 

This morning things were a bit busier for me, I had some actual work to knock out and I got started super early.  So early the cats didn’t bother to get up after they had breakfast.  That’s highly unusual but I didn’t poke either one of them, just told them I would be up when I could. 

Got one meeting today in a little bit and then hopefully that should free me up for the rest of the day.  I have a few things on my calendar but it’s all stuff for me to take care of on my own, which is how I like it. 

Tomorrow is expensive rubber day or the day I get new tires.  I will also get my haircut.  I thought about venturing back to the BBQ place I went to 3 weeks ago but I’m on the fence about that.  It is a long way to drive for BBQ.  I’m more thinking about making a trip to the office.  I know that there is another package that should be landing on my desk soon.  Not sure if I want to stop at the Mexican place I usually hit up or visit some place else.  I’m sure I will sort it out though and won’t go hungry. 

I am enjoying the faster speed from my internet connection.  Files download in no time at all.  Funny thing is the cable company is advertising the same plan I have for new customers and it’s $5 cheaper.  They have to get that $5 back from me because for a year or more they gave me a $5 discount because I was enrolled in Auto Pay.  I think it’s nuts.  Just give your loyal customers the best price and they are apt to stay with you.  That’s how I’d run the business.  I think the same is true of the phone companies. 

Speaking of Phone Companies I marked on my calendar on my birthday to change my cell rate plan to the Senior Discount plan that AT&T is offering.  Well it was a good deal at $35.  However, now it’s $60 which is more than I am paying them now.  Looks like I won’t be making any changes that is unless the price happens to decrease closer to my birthday or even after my birthday.  AT&T has remarkable spam filtering that’s the only reason why I keep my account alive.  Otherwise, I’d switch because I hate them too.  I was watching an episode of All In The Family and Archie Bunker referred to AT&T as American Thieves & Thugs, I chuckled at that mostly because it’s true!

Well time to go check on the cats and relax for a little bit before my meeting.  Hope you have a swell day and a fantastic weekend.  Be safe and stay warm!

Man Candy - Enjoy :)

Micro Managed

Morning!

I woke up this morning and it felt like Rudy was taking a typing test on me.  His paws were just moving all around.  I just laid there and soaked it in, pretending to be asleep and not talking to him.  Eventually he jumped down and curled up by my side where he was scratching and grooming.  It was interesting to watch him.  I grabbed one of his paws and he knew I was awake.  I spoke to him and he leaped back up on my chest, staring me in the face as if to say “Hello Human, give me attention and food.”  I did exactly that attention and then once I told him it was time to get up and he moved I headed out to the kitchen to feed him.  Mora let me know that she was awake while I was talking to Rudy.  I greeted her with a Good morning. 

Chicken for the cats.  Cinnamon Oatmeal for me.  I bought some not so ripe bananas.  Tried to eat one on Monday and it was a no go.  I got one to peel for me this morning but it was crunchy and that turned into a no go.  I’ll never buy green bananas again.  I’ve done it before and it’s always worked out fine.  These were extra unripe and I am starting to wonder if they are ever going to turn yellow. 

The snow has some slight melting to it but it’s still very much here.  I know it’s on it way out with a little bit of time.  I’m just waiting to hear that rain is in the forecast.  It always rains eventually after we get snow to wash it away. 

Working on a special request yesterday.  My boss decided to try to micro manage me.  I didn’t appreciate it.  I was waiting for input from a 3rd party and eventually got it.  Then I was able to provide the update that he wanted.  Now it appears that the request is dead or so I hope.  It’s a bit of work and it would only be for the rest of the week.  My hope is that the boss won’t go poking the bear but sometimes he likes to do that, as if we all don’t already have enough on our plates. 

Things are actually pretty calm this morning thus far.  I’ve got a lot of free time on my hands at the moment.  Of course 2 meeting for sure today.  One potential meeting tomorrow which I hope he will move or cancel.  One meeting on Friday and then hopefully we are done.  I hate meetings.  I hate talking with my boss, even if it’s just an email conversation.  He likes to overthink and over complicate things.  Just let me do what you trust me to do and we will all be just fine.  If I need help or have a question I know how to ask.  I’m not a child.  Actually I am older than he is but not by much.  He knows that if he asks me to do something it will get done, just maybe not as fast as he wants it done. 

Has some frozen Spaghetti & Meat Sauce for supper.  Ate a small left over piece of cake for desert.  Got bored later and really dove into some Mint Chip ice cream, which I really didn’t need.  It was nervous eating. 

The cats seem to have fallen out of love for treats.  They still expect them and get excited at the word.  However, there are usually left over in the morning.  I think they are filling up on their new dry food and just don’t have room.  Mora has this new thing where she likes to crawl under the couch.  She will sit there all alone for a short period of time and then appear.  Last night she was her usual clingy self and spent most of her time in my lap or by my side. 

Here’s hoping that it’s a good day, I get to find and watch some good TV and we can close out this week quickly.  I’m not eager to spend money on tires over the weekend but I do live for weekends.  It’s nice to relax and refresh.

Stay warm, be well and 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!

Ah Monday again

Morning!

I had my Tombstone Pizza and it was every bit as delicious as I expected it to be.  I could have finished the whole thing in one sitting but managed to leave 2 pieces.  I plan to consume them today for lunch. 

Picked up some Panera Soups from the store and am looking forward to having them this week.  Got a Chicken Noodle, Potato and Broccoli & Cheese.  Just small cups good for a single serving and combined with some crackers or a sandwich will be plenty to fill me up or so I hope. 

Got my surfing done last night.  I wanted to get away from the computer but my printer had some updates that kept me tied to the screen for a bit longer than I wanted.  I got those installed and finally was able to step away from the machine. 

Wrangled Rudy upstairs, which was really easy.  I had to make a second trip to carry Mora up.  I wanted to brush her and trim her claws.  She didn’t like being carried upstairs but she knew she was safe. 

Brushing commenced and she was loving it. She looks more beautiful now that she has been brushed.  I switched to claw trimming and she stopped purring and tried to snap at me and protest.  However, I got them all nipped.  I just take the point off.  Hell with in an hour they are all sharpened back up.  I’m guessing she probably had a bad nail trim experience where someone trimmed too much off or maybe she just doesn’t like her nails touched.  I get it either way. 

Brushed Rudy and didn’t get a whole lot of fur off of him.  He already had his nails trimmed so he was quite happy. 

I got ready for bed early.  Took a little extra medicine for sleeping and just listened to my body, which said I’m seriously tired and need rest.  Had a super strange dream.  Woke up at 4a.  Managed to get back to sleep.  Both cats joined me.  I woke up an hour later, went back to sleep and woke up again at 6.  Went back to sleep for a bit but wound up getting up early. 

Thought day was a packed day at work but much to my surprise it wasn’t as bad as I thought.  Managed to get through all of my tasks and worked a bit ahead on my monthly report to stage it.  I’m all caught up and ready to go up for the day.  Hopefully, I will be left alone for a while if not for the rest of the day. 

Looks like the Groundhog saw his shadow and we get 6 more weeks of winter if you subscribe to that theory.  What is going to happen is going to happen, Ground hog or not. 

Next big event is the Super Bowl on Sunday.  Whoopie.  Only one thing I’m interested in that’s the National Anthem because Charlie Puth is singing it, I am eager to hear that.  As for the game I never watch it.  My boss is a huge Patriots Fan and I hope they loose but that probably won’t be the case. 

Here’s hoping it’s a great day for all of us! Cheers.

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!