Older than I thought

Morning & Happy Friday!

I’ve seen lots of people posting their Spotify Wrapped.  Normally I get an email when it’s ready but nothing this year.  I opened the Spotify app and mine was there waiting for me.  Something new this year is they rate your age based on the music you listen to.  Apparently I am 62.  That shocked me.  I got into Bob Seger a bit more this year, just thinking about my mom.  He was one of her favorite artists and I discovered some of his music that was new and appealed to me.  This was the second year in a row that Charlie Puth wasn’t my top listened to and favorite artist.  I think and hope that next years Wrapped will show him at my top artist but only time will tell. 

Speaking of Charlie, I forgot to mention that he’s singing the National Anthem at the 2026 Super bowl.  That should be interesting.  He’s also hosting New Years Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.  He’s got a new album due out in March, which I look forward to hearing.  I’m still very much a huge fan of Charlie’s.  He’s got a special place in my heart. 

Music is a common bond that we can share with others.  It can change, alter or enhance mood and I honestly don’t know how I could get through this life without it. 

I’m watching a series new to me on Netflix called Brockmeyer.  It’s very funny and interesting.  It’s about a baseball announcer and his life, he’s a screw up but it’s interesting to follow. 

I have heard about a new Gay Hockey Drama series on HBO that is pretty good.  It’s a weekly series and there is apparently some hot steamy gay sex scenes that are pretty explicit.  I haven’t watched yet but it’s on my list.  I hate coming back for a weekly series like that I like to binge watch. 

Work yesterday was kind of a long day, not a lot going on and just watching a computer screen.  Helping out when I wanted to.  A couple things came my way but it’s slow right now.  Today will be pretty much the same I believe.  I’ve got one dumb meeting to attend that will be a gab fest of my boss yapping just because he loves the sound of his own voice.  I could miss the call if I wanted to but I think that might lead to more questions so I’ll go despite not wanting to. 

Had pizza that I baked in my own oven last night.  It was store bought but for frozen pizza it was pretty good.  I still have a few pieces left over that will probably be lunch.  Thinking of having some Buffalo Chicken tonight to change things up.  Just loaded up the fridge last night with Sprite Zero so in my mind that pairs perfect. 

Worked on getting the trash together so all I need to do today is take the barrel out to the end of the street, that’s an afternoon task because it will be a bit warmer but not by much. 

Rudy got me up an hour early today.  Good thing because the internet was down.  Not something I like to see in the morning but it provided me with some extra time to reboot the modem and try to get my phone connected to my desktop computer.  Thankfully my home connection came back up and it’s been solid for a couple hours so hopefully it will stay that way. 

I hate to include this but it’s just something I am having a hard time dealing with.  Scott Finn’s death really bothers me.  It’s mostly because he was so young, death in general is something that I have a hard time dealing with.  However, when it’s a young person that bothers me even more.  I didn’t know him beyond his screen porn performances but he sounds like quite a great guy.  Really wish that he was still here.  Sounds like he could have used someone to talk to.  Based on what I see from his obituary he was very loved and his very much missed by a lot of people.  While all signs from what I have seen and read point to suicide being the cause of this death, there still has been no official confirmation of that.  It’s a permanent solution to a temporary problem.  It’s tough to see that when your going through something.  I only know that because I’ve been in that situation multiple times in my life.  I’m kind of glad that I stuck around so many good things have happened both with Technology and my life that I would have otherwise missed. 

Hopefully that wasn’t too depressing I just had to let it out.  It helps to talk even if I am just typing and sending it into hyperspace.  I plan to enjoy today as well as the weekend.  Not looking forward to being back on-call but this time next week.  I’m looking forward to my time off.  Already got a shopping list going for Sam’s Club.  Thinking about restaurants that I’d like to visit and looking at new vehicles.  I don’t know that anything will ever quench my new car fever but it is fun to look online.  Some places make it look like they are giving you a great deal but I am not a fan of car dealers.  I know I’m not alone there lots of people dislike them. 

Have a great weekend, enjoy some good food, watch a movie or TV show.  Do something for you!  Relax, you’ve earned it.  Take care and stay warm.  Thank you for stopping by!

Thursday

Morning …

Had an okay evening.  Saw that with a little bit of warmer weather most of the snow has melted from the driveway and sidewalk.  My deck however is still very much snow covered.  You can see paw prints in it from visitors that I have had but the camera oddly hasn’t picked up any of them.  Perhaps it’s hoping for warmth and conserving power, I know that’s how I would be if I was outside in this full time. 

Today the temperature isn’t moving much and it feels like –5 outside.  I will just take the word of the weather person and not venture out to find out.  However, tomorrow I will have to be out just long enough to push the trash can to the end of the driveway.  Normally that would happen today but were running a day behind because they missed us last Saturday due to the weather. 

The forecast says that we will have some rain/snow mix just in time for Sunday morning, it’s not expected to be a lot but just enough to create a mess.  I hope that it passes by us but it won’t stop me from getting out regardless by then I will need groceries!  I won’t get caught up in a panic crowd on a Saturday.  I like early morning shopping when no one is around and I can leisurely stroll through the store. 

Had Chicken Pot Pie last night it was really good.  Finished up the Chocolate Cake as well.  Played with the cats.  Rudy was on fire last night he just didn’t want to stop.  I got him to crawl into his new toy for a moment.  He kept playing long after me and Mora were tired and ready for bed.  I loved hearing him and wished that I could bottle his energy for daytime when I could really use it. 

Made it through the dreaded yappy meeting yesterday.  The boss was in one of those chatty modes where the sound of his own voice sounded great to him.  Meanwhile I just wanted to hang up.  There really was no content of meaning it was just an excuse to get together and gab. 

Thankfully thus far no meetings at all today.  Morning tasks are done and I’ve got one afternoon task that I could do now and just be done for the day and on standby but for now I will keep it lingering.  It’s an excuse to come back to the computer after lunch. 

Going to do my morning web rounds and then head up to be with the cats, watch TV and hopefully take a quick nap.  Rudy had me up an hour early this morning.  I’m not tired, still a short nap sounds so good.  Hopefully no one will bother me and I can accomplish that.  Usually I just nod off and then magically I have to come back to work.

I hope that your toasty warm and doing well.  Be safe and take care!

Scott Finn

Yesterday I posted about the death of adult star Scott Finn.  It was difficult to find any information yesterday morning but by late evening I was able to find his obituary, which you can view here …https://www.providentfuneralhome.com/obituaries/rhett-douglas-messerly 

It really made it worse for me, when I found out that this young man was only 27 years old.  I alluded to the fact that he committed suicide and while that sounds plausible, there has been no official announcement of that by any public official or his family.

What I know is that he announced a while back that he was getting married.  Earlier this year he announced that he was divorced.  He apparently had a hard struggle with that and his life since then was difficult. 

It’s no secret I’ve had my struggles with life, I think it’s just part of being human.  You’ve probably had your struggles as well.  Life isn’t exactly easy and a bed of roses all the time, we all will have problems there is no escaping that fact. 

It just really bothers me that such a young person who seemingly had so much life and brought so much happiness to many is gone.  Sure I only came to know him as a porn star and he did a great job and was attractive to me.  However, behind that persona was someone’s son, brother, uncle and friend – a human.  It’s sad to realize that he is gone at such a young age. 

His funeral is today (December 4th).  I wish I was closer in proximity as I would certainly attend to pay my respects.  I feel sad for his family and friends.  I know that he will be missed. 

While tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us, I hope that you will agree with me that parents aren’t supposed to bury their children.  Death at any age is difficult to cope with but it’s worse when it’s at such a young age and there was so many possibilities that could have unfolded and his life could have gotten better.

Not that I expect his family or friends will see this post but I still express my deepest sympathies.  Rest in Peace Rhett “Scott”. 

Man Candy - Whack It Wednesday

Middle of the Week

Morning …

Just read some shocking and devastating news that former porn star Scott Finn passed away.  Based on what I read at https://www.menofporn.blog/2025/12/passed-away-last-week-scott-finn.html  looks like he committed suicide.  What his friend or relative said [paraphrasing] is that suicide is not a desire to die but a desire to escape the pain.  That’s what I have long said and kind of how I have felt when I have thought about suicide in the past.  Pain or circumstances can be overwhelming at times and you don’t think that it will end or that you can’t get past the pain.  However, Rome wasn’t built in a day and you need to allow time but your mind either doesn’t or can’t grasp that at the time and you just want it to stop.  I get it only because I’ve been there. 

Scott has provided me hours of entertainment watching him in his films and he was a sexy guy in my opinion.  I am really saddened to hear of his passing and hope that he is resting in peace.  He’s been retired for a while.  I was surprised that he got married and even more surprised that it didn’t work out and he got divorced. 

In other news … I got my new trash can yesterday it sadly was damaged in shipment.  Put a Fragile sticker on a package and tell the carrier to handle with care is a sure fire way for the package to get beat all to hell.  It was plastic and not Rubbermaid plastic.  At first I wanted to keep it but the more I thought about it I am sending it back and asked for a replacement.  As an after thought I wished that I would have asked for a refund because chances are pretty good they will send the replacement shipment the same way and it will arrive in the same condition so I will have to repeat this process again.  If that’s the case I will either order a Rubbermaid or go seek a new one at a local store. 

The good news is that UPS driver made it up the driveway and sidewalk with ease.  Just looking at his foot prints in the fresh snow and I can see there isn’t but a dusting out there.  Glad I didn’t get out and try to shovel. 

I moved the cats new toy to a more comfortable spot and they both walked up to it and walked away.  I really thought this was a sure fire thing that they would love it.  There still is time for them to fall in love with it but the more time passes with it here I don’t think that is going to happen.  Selling cat toys is all about hype and damn I shouldn’t have bought into that but I did.  I like my new rule if it costs more than $20 it’s a no go for a cat toy. 

Had White Cheddar Mac & Cheese with Bacon last night for supper.  It was a frozen dinner from Devour Foods (which I believe is a division of Kraft).  They make some good stuff and it’s a nice change of pace once and a while.  I was thinking Chicken Pot Pie or Pizza and leaning toward the Chicken Pot Pie.  That sounds like a winner for tonight. 

Watched the new Christmas Special on Netflix from Matt Rife.  He’s funny, cute & sexy.  Sadly straight as an arrow.  However, that doesn’t stop me from looking.  I got a couple laughs in.  He always is a delight to watch.  Sadly it’s only an hour and that went by way too fast.  If your looking for something to watch I highly recommend it as well as the new Kathleen Madigan special on Prime. 

Still very cold here and we have a chance at some flurries overnight tonight.  It’s not going to warm up until late next week.  Perhaps all of this mess will be melted and gone by the time I am ready to start my vacation. 

Broke the news yesterday to my mistake making colleague that he’s going to have the helm for a couple weeks.  He was surprised that I am taking so much time off.  I told him it was use or lose and I’m not a fan of lose.  Plus he will get a small taste of what I went through when he was out on Paternity leave although sadly I won’t be gone nearly as long as he was.  This is the most time I have taken in succession.  In retrospect I could have planned it better but I am always a fan of taking time at the holidays. 

All caught up on work tasks at the moment.  Time for another meeting later on this morning and then unless something goes wrong I will be done for the day and watching on standby.  I’m savoring in the down time this week because I will be back on call next week just in time for some people to return form their Thanksgiving Coma and others starting to leave for vacation.  I hope that the good outweighs the bad and that I won’t be horribly busy come next week but time will tell. 

Stay warm, take care and be well!

More Snow

Morning …

It was around 11a yesterday morning and sitting in the living room I noticed that it was snowing.  That went on for hours yesterday and we wound up with an additional 5 inches.  It made for some good police scanner listening.  Wrecks were everywhere and people were told to stay put but no one seemed to listen to that advice. 

One of my neighbors across the street came home early from work and he started shoveling his driveway.  He made it look like child’s play.  Just pushing the snow from the top of his driveway to the bottom and then once he was done pushing the pile at the bottom of the driveway up the street.  He’s got a special snow shovel that has a bend in it.  We got more snow overnight and his driveway has a little bit of snow. 

My other neighbor that clears his driveway just backed his truck in the driveway and closed the garage door.  I think he was like me in that I’m done, enough of this already.  His driveway is still snow covered as is mine this morning.  I waffled about going out to shovel but talked myself out of it, there is just no point in it.  I won’t be going out until Friday to set the trash can out.  I won’t leave until Saturday so if there is a problem I can deal with it then. 

Meanwhile I stayed nice and warm, did some new car browsing on-line.  I really want to make a move but am still managing to talk myself out of it for now.  I can continue to save money and be car payment free, that is unless I just can’t resist any longer and wind up giving in.

The cats have lost interest in their Christmas toy.  I put some cat nip in and on top of it last night in the hopes that will draw them into it, just need to wait and see.  They walk over to it sniff and stare at it then walk away.  I think I’m going to set a new rule if it costs more than $20 and it’s a cat toy I’m not buying it. 

Speaking of cats.  Mora didn’t want to leave the couch this morning.  I brought the plate of food to her and managed to cajole her into starting to eat a little bit.  Once she got started I took it away in the hopes she would follow me.  It worked to get her off the couch but she didn’t follow me.  I worry a lot when a cat doesn’t eat, just because I’ve been down that road before and it’s scary.  I’m sure she was just keeping warm and was comfy but she doesn’t miss breakfast as a rule. 

My shoulder was killing me this morning.  I broke out the massager and ran it over my neck and shoulder to help get some blood flowing.  I was able to put the massager up to Rudy and he didn’t move or flinch.  He was in a playful mood, so much so that he decided to start attacking my new pillow and I had to stop him. 

Sleep was good with just some brief wake up and then back to sleep periods.  A strange dream but I don’t remember it now. 

Finished off the Spaghetti from Thanksgiving that I was sent home with.  Just have a little bit of Ham and a small piece of Chocolate cake.  That won’t last long. 

My allergies seem to be on fire so I am headed up for some medicine and going to take it easy for a bit until it’s meeting time.  Based on my calendar today as well as the week as a whole looks to be rather easy.  I hope that is the way it turns out. 

Stay warm and be well.  Take care!

December

Morning

Yesterday was nice staying in after I had been out in the morning.  It was the best decision hands down that I made all day. 

Amazon showed up and I got the cats Christmas present put together.  They are interested in it or at least they were.  Hopefully, that continues. 

Rudy climbed up on a small glass table last night where there are candles, keys and of all things a baseball that I found in my yard a few years back.  He managed to knock the baseball off along with a couple other items and it sounded horrible.  Both cats were jumping around and once I saw the table a mess I knew what happened.  I was just around the corner trying to heat up dinner for me.  Damn cat had me going downstairs to retrieve a baseball. 

Rudy seems to be getting more mischievous as times goes on.  He loves to climb and jump.  I’ve got a couple cat trees but they aren’t quite suited to his needs all the time.  I’d love to know what is going through his mind.  He’s also more affectionate and clingy. 

I had a late supper, really wasn’t interested in eating much since I had a large lunch polishing off the Turkey & Stuffing.  I worked a little bit on the Spaghetti.  There is still enough left for one more meal if I am actually hungry.  I figured out how to spice it up a bit by throwing in some a pizza blend of cheese that I got.  That makes it taste better. 

While I really didn’t want to shave and shower last night that too was a good move.  Then I settled in my chair with the heating pad.  I started with my lower back and gradually moved the pad up until I reached the top.  By then my sleeping meds were starting to kick in and I knew that I needed to get in bed. 

I felt decent and sleepy last night.  Had a strange ass dream but slept until 5a when I was able to roll back over and head right back to dream land.  Woke up just before the alarm was going to go off.  I was too busy tending to Rudy and forgot about the alarm.  Meanwhile I was up and moving in the middle of making my breakfast.  The alarm clock went off and Rudy was all ears.  He wanted to know what the sound was all about.  I turned it off and told him it was my alarm clock, my back up morning biscuit maker. 

Had to turn the thermostat up a degree so it’s nice and toasty in here.  It’s a bit too toasty for me but the cats seem to like it.  Not so bad when I am downstairs. 

I’ve managed to plow right through my morning tasks, despite not really wanting to.  I am glad to be free from on-call and glad that I wasn’t bothered a single time over the long holiday weekend.  Let’s hope that repeats come the last week of the year and into the New Year. 

Right now I am done for the day and the day just got started.  That is unless someone needs me and I’m sure that in a little bit once things get going that someone will reach out.  If not I’m not going to go look for work.  I am going to sit back and enjoy the peace & quiet while it lasts. 

More snow will be moving in later this evening, looking at 1 to 2 inches and it’s all snow.  Both my phone and the forecast on TV now both say that were done with snow after that.  I suppose only time will tell.  Friday & Saturday were supposed to be back in the 40’s for daytime highs but it’s all over the place for lows from 14 degrees to 28.  So it’s still very much Winter like temperatures.

I’ve got to go out and fetch the trash can, apparently they came to pick up trash early this morning.  I’m purposely waiting to give it a little chance to warm up a bit before I go get it. 

Hope you had a great Sunday.  Stay warm and be well.  Talk with you all again soon! Best wishes for the week ahead.

Sore

Welcome in …

Looking out last night I saw a couple driveways that had been cleared.  Everything had stopped and I heard it was a wet snow.  Temperatures were dropping but still above freezing.  Against my better judgement I went out to see what I could do. 

The driveway was a wet sloppy mess.  I just pushed a path wide enough so that I could get out of the driveway, which is all I was really concerned with.  I started off strong but my energy quickly was depleted.  It went from being easy to being difficult.  I did lift and shovel some snow.  I was concerned about my wrist and lost sight of how my poor back would feel. 

Eventually I made enough progress that was good enough for me.  My driveway wasn’t clear but I knew that I wouldn’t have any problems getting out or more importantly getting back in.  Official snow fall total for my area was 5 1/2 inches.  It was more before the wind and rain but both of those helped to clear things off. 

I came back inside huffing, puffing and sweating.  I needed a drink and to get my coat off as well as my boots.  Accomplished all of that and sat on the couch until I caught my breath.  It was still early in the evening so I came back downstairs to play on the computer. 

By the time I was ready to go up I gave up on carrying up the laundry.  I was tired and some soreness was starting to creep in my back.  My wrists (both of them) felt funny.  I was still concerned that I aggravated my cyst but as of this morning that doesn’t appear to be the case. 

Slept pretty good until 4a when I discovered that Rudy had burrowed into the blankets next to me.  I had to get up to use the bathroom and that of course woke him and he thought it was time to eat, which I sadly told him we had a couple more hours.  I watched a little TV and then after an hour was able to fall back asleep.  Rudy never left my side, guess he was afraid that I was going to disappear without passing out breakfast.  I’ve never done that but it does sound tempting. 

Woke up and begrudgingly got out of bed, really wanted to stay put but that wouldn’t get me groceries or breakfast.  Took care of Sir Rudy first.  Then tended to myself and got going.  Getting out of the driveway had one difficult part but I made it. 

Parking lot of the restaurant where I get breakfast at was as usual in poor shape.  The owner was outside spreading ice, telling me to be careful.  The snow was gone but there was lots of ice.  Not sure who clears his parking lot but they didn’t do a great job.  Had my breakfast, the place was empty when I walked in and the same way when I left.  Normally that is not the case but a lot of people stayed in. 

Made it to the grocery store.  Remembered Christmas Cookies and Baby Food.  I know I forgot something but right now can’t remember what it was.  Sam’s Club where I get my gas at did a horrible job on their parking lot too.  Topped off my tank and headed home.  Had to maneuver around a shopping cart.  It was 25 degrees but my phone said that it felt like –5.  I wouldn’t argue with that. 

While I want to get out for supper there is no way I am going back out in this.  The wind and temperatures are just a bit much for me.  I’ve got food here and even picked up a Frozen Pizza and some extra cheese to top it with.  I was set on having that tonight but now I am thinking I will save it for one day during the week. 

Got my morning nap in and then passed out lunch for the cats.  Worked on my pills and watched TV.  Waiting on Amazon to show up.  They were supposed to be here yesterday but I knew they weren’t coming and I’m not upset about it.  Thankfully they arrived today.  Cats got their Christmas present and they like it thus far.  Both of them were curious about it.  It was mildly difficult to assemble, all I had to do was zip it up.  Both of them have been inside of the tunnel.  Rudy curled up in the top of it and also scratched it with his claws.  I think I got a winner this time.  Just in case I am still saving the box. 

Trash gets picked up tomorrow and then again next Saturday.  Everything is off by one day.  It’s not the end of the world. 

We have a chance for more snow tomorrow, Wednesday and again on Friday.  If we get hit again I hope it’s all dry and fluffy snow that I can just roll over with ease in my vehicle.  This shoveling thing is hard work.  I am considering getting a battery or electric snow shovel to help make the job easier.

I’m finishing up laundry and then will be headed upstairs to watch TV and figure out what is for dinner.  Nice to know that I have a full tank of gas if I need to get out but I have no plans to leave until next Saturday.  Vehicle is hooked up to a battery maintainer (I call it life support) because the battery doesn’t like cold weather.  I’ve never been stranded or had it not start but now that I know about how it doesn’t like cold weather I take care of it.  Alternator is still good as well, when I came home from my trip to the office it read as 97% charged. 

I’ve finished up the Turkey and Stuffing.  Still have Spaghetti and Chocolate Cake to work on.  A few slices of Ham but that will be good on a sandwich.  I’ve got a freezer full of other things to eat, mostly pasta but I know I’ve got 1 Chicken Pot Pie and this for sure is Pot Pie Weather. 

Here’s hoping that next week is easy.  Only good thing about Monday is that I won’t be on-call.  Thank you for stopping by.  Hard to believe tomorrow is the 1st of December already.  Now I just need to remind myself only two weeks until vacation. 

Take care and stay warm!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Hello and welcome in … Hope that you had a great Thanksgiving!

Thursday … I laid around during the day and watched TV, relaxing.  Then managed to get a shower, dressed and leave.  Time kind of got away from me.  I had things to do before I stopped for dinner.  First stop was the police station where I dropped off the donation for the toy drive.  When I was getting back into my vehicle I heard a meow.  I know I heard a cat but I looked and didn’t see anything.  Next stop was to a particular post office to mail my holiday cards, made it.  Then the final stop on to my friends house for dinner.  I was 2 minutes early. 

Had a nice meal and dessert.  Enjoyed great conversation and time got away from us it was 11:30p before I left and I wasn’t home until midnight.  The cats were happy to see me but I’m sure they were a bit unhappy with me since I didn’t leave dinner for them.  They had dry food and water so it’s not like they had to starve. 

We enjoyed some time together before I headed to bed.  I watched a little TV and then passed out. 

Friday … Woke up had breakfast and lounged.  I had to go to the office for my new laptop but really didn’t want to.  I made it a late morning early afternoon trip.  Spent a couple hours and was out by 3.  Home by 5p.  Had to stop at the post office to pick up a package.  Then wrangle the trash when I got home but first order was to feed the cats.  By the time I sat down to dinner it was a little after 5p.

I was tired and felt like I was going to drop.  Had some Spaghetti & Chocolate Cake.  Watched TV.  I wanted to come downstairs and surf for porn but no energy.  After an hour or so I got my second wind.  Don’t ask me why but I fired up my laptop and connected to work.  I tried to get into my new laptop but it wouldn’t respond.  I was able to reboot it via DOS command but that still didn’t make things work.  I have to be able to access it when I am not in the office, mostly for testing.  I was pissed but had to make a trip back over. 

I tried a couple things but there is a specific setting for RDP (Remote Desktop) access and found that via a YouTube Video, followed the steps closely and then tested it with my old laptop while I was still in the office.  It worked like a charm.  I was so happy to have resolved this.  I buttoned things up and headed home.  Arrived by 8:45p. 

Saturday … Today is the one day that has really worked out for me.  We are getting pounded by a Winter Storm.  First wet snow, then sleet and now rain.  It’s going to freeze tonight so everything will be nice and icy when I have to get out tomorrow.  Watched a neighbor shovel his driveway.  He went about it the lazy method of just pushing and then eventually throwing the snow.  I thought about going out but I looked at my wrist and thought yeah I remember the last time and how my cyst got inflamed.  No way am I going to shovel anything.  I don’t want that pain.  From as best as I can tell based on last time we have probably 8 to 9 inches of snow.  Wind is supposed to kick up and blow it all over the place so who knows what it will actually be like tomorrow morning. 

I can tell you the police scanner is busy today with plenty of accidents.  Great day for my friends in the Tow Truck business.  It’s super messy out and everyone thinks they know how to drive, that’s kind of how this all unfolds.  The word from officials is if you don’t have to go out, stay home.  I am all snug and happy here watching it from my window, listening to people crashing. 

I had a nice relaxing morning and got a late morning nap in.  That was really nice.  Working on Laundry now and catching up on porn, going to do some shopping and I’m waiting on the Amazon person to show up.  I actually would understand if they don’t make it.  I placed a big order on Thursday while I was waiting to Turkey Time to roll around. I am getting a new trash can, cats are getting a Cattasarus bed.  It’s a bed, tunnel and scratching surface all in one.  They are supposed to go crazy over it.  Here’s hoping that it goes over way better than the cat treadmill did.  Plus I placed an order for new Naked Men Calendars for next year. 

It’s only been 3 days total but I’m telling you after having tomorrow off as well I really don’t want to go back.  I just have to remind myself I won’t be on-call and I’ve only got 2 weeks then I will be off for 2 weeks.  I still have nothing in stone planned.  It’s going to be a whole lot of napping, lounging and running around. 

It’s been quiet from a work perspective and hopefully that will continue until Monday rolls back around.  My only worry is that once I make it out in the morning that I can get back in my driveway when I come home.  So long as that happens I really only plan the morning trip out for breakfast, groceries and to top off my gas tank.  I might get adventurous and go out for supper but most likely not.  I think it’s going to be a little bit of a challenge to get back in the driveway given that there is ice. 

Well off I go surfing.  I hope your well and warm.  Take care!

Happy Thanksgiving

 

Thanksgiving a time to reflect on the many blessings and things we take for granted daily that actually matter and that we are thankful for.  Plus a time to get together with friends and/or family share some good food, reminisce about past good times and show off a funny t-shirt.  That’s what this holiday is about for me. 

There are a myriad of things that I could list here.  Simply put I’m thankful for my past both the good and bad times, those experiences shaped me into who I am today.  I’ve got a decent home, 2 exceptional cats, a decent automobile, a decent job and am thriving.  I know that so many in this world are struggling and many are jealous of what I have.  I’m thankful for being able to buy random strangers meals, for being able to give back to help make some kids Christmas brighter as well as to spread some joy and positivity.  I’m thankful for decent health for without that I would have nothing.  Health is one of those things that is taken for granted. 

I am thankful for you stopping by regardless if this is your first time or you visit often.  For reading my posts, enjoying the Man Candy that I post as well as for those of you that leave comments.  Blogging for me started many years ago and I made a great friend, who has long since passed.  I continue sharing my thoughts with the world at large because it’s therapeutic and quite enjoyable for me. 

I hope that you have a wonderful and enjoyable Thanksgiving!

Ready as can be

Morning …

Happy Thanksgiving Eve.  Can’t believe that tomorrow will be the BIG DAY I’ve waited for all year long.  It’s extra special now that I have plans for surprises with the donation for the toy drive and a birthday present for my friend.  While I won’t see any expressions of joy from the kids that my money buys toys from I am looking forward to seeing my friends reaction to her gift. 

Sadly I got word yesterday that my W11 laptop is waiting for me in my office to configure.  Right now I plan to make a trip over on Friday to knock that task out so I can return my W10 laptop before I am hounded for it.  Plus I should beat the snow that is headed our way Friday night into Saturday morning.  There will be minimal people in the office and since no one is expecting me I should be uninterrupted or so I hope. 

If my plans work out today is the last full day that I will be with the cats this week until Saturday.  I’m sure they won’t be happy about it but then again they might just want a break from me.  Rudy has been extra hungry and picky over the last couple days.  He sure loves to eat, might not be a lot but the joy that washes over him in anticipation of me cracking open a fresh can of food is quite enjoyable to see.  I hope that he’s like that for many years to come!

Speaking of which I have to remember to get my insurance policy of food when I go to the grocery store.  Baby Food, it’s a cats best friend if they loose their appetite it often helps them get back to eating again.  I like to keep a couple cans on hand, even if I wind up throwing them away I’d rather have them and not need them.  Rather than not have them and need them.  The smellier the food the more they go for it.  Ham & Turkey are the best for that.  The Ham smells the worst. 

I got the on-call calendar published yesterday, it was slow enough that I just wanted to knock it out rather than put it off to today which was my initial thought.  Glad that it’s done, something else I can check off of my to do list.  I expect that today will be extra quiet as people ramp up for travel and time off, at least I hope that is the way it goes.  Sadly I have a couple meetings with the boss who loves to yack.  Especially before a holiday weekend he will be extra talkative or so I expect.  My time off got approved so back to work after Thanksgiving for 2 weeks, then I am off for 2 weeks and back for the last few days of what is left of 2025.  This year is pretty well cooked as most years are when Thanksgiving time rolls around. 

I’m off to pay bills and relax and enjoy the quiet while it lasts.  Hope that it’s a great day for all of us.  Be safe, stay warm and have a Happy Thanksgiving! 

Productive Monday

Good morning!

Hope you slept well and that today is off to a good start.

Work wasn’t terribly busy yesterday but there were bursts of work scattered throughout the day.  Had one meeting where I had to listen to the boss yammer on.  It was a training session for a new person on a different team that we work with. I am sure the person was quite familiar with the subject matter.  It was a time waster for me but I just spoke up when it was appropriate and otherwise I was surfing on my home machine.

I applied postage to my Christmas cards and weighed them all again, no change in weight so a First Class Stamp is all that I needed.  Got everything bundled up and ready to go come Thursday. 

Made a call to the police to find out about their charity toy drive.  I learned about this earlier this year on my ride along.  Found out how to make a donation and have that ready to go.  Glad that I called so I don’t have to make a trip to the bank first.  I was able to write a check.  Just knowing that I’m bringing some joy to some kids and potentially changing their Christmas makes me feel good. 

When I head out on Thursday I will leave a bit early so I can drop off the donation at the police department and then hit up a post office to mail my Christmas Cards.  It’s a tradition that I mail them on the day of Thanksgiving.  Then I can head to dinner and wait to spring the birthday surprise on my friend.  I am very much looking forward to this whole day.

Speaking of Christmas, I found the cats a present.  It’s a Cattasarus Peekaboo Cat Cave.  It’s a bed, tunnel and scratching surface all in one.  Easy to assemble just zip up and easy to clean, just unzip.  It costs less than their birthday present (a cat treadmill) which is largely unused.  I hope that I’m not wasting my money and just knowing them I think this will be something they both take a keen interest to.  It will double as a hiding place so it will be another place I have to look for them when those times occur that I can’t find them, which is rare.  There’s no waiting for Christmas here for gifts I will give it to them early.  Haven’t ordered it yet but it won’t be long. 

No word on my W11 laptop at work so right now it looks like I can stay home on Friday if I want to.  Learned last night that we will have some rain and snow moving into the area just in time for Saturday. Temperatures are also going to drop over the next few days so it will really feel like Thanksgiving!

Finished my Chinese food last night and much to my surprise neither cat bothered me.  My fortune cookie said that I have an unusually magnetic personality.  I laughed and said yeah and everyone wants to be my friend.  Later I had a warmed Apple Fritter topped with cinnamon sugar and washed that down with a glass of milk.  It was some good eating. 

Sleep wasn’t the best.  I woke up around 5a for a bathroom break and Rudy was chomping at the bit to get fed.  I ignored him but he managed to wake me up and I had to watch some TV to fall back asleep.  It was only fitting that when I dosed off he was sitting on my chest keeping me company, which helped to relax me.  Come time to really get up and I just wanted to stay in bed.  Yet here I am up and working.  We all got breakfast too.   

Thus far work today is dead but I do expect things to heat up a bit.  Most folks have mentally already checked out and the rest of them are probably gearing up for travel.  I have semi-checked out but tomorrow will be the longest day ever and by that point I think we all will have checked out, despite the fact that the work must continue. 

Hope that your chugging along and staying warm in the process.  Take care.

Productive Weekend

Good morning … It's a short work week here in the US, with Thanksgiving occurring on Thursday. I'm on-call this week and our office is closed Thursday & Friday, so it will be a nice 4-day weekend where we can all stuff ourselves with food, nap and shop. Just in time to go back to work on Monday. The good news is that in just 3 short weeks we get another 3-day work week because Christmas will be here. As for me it will be 2 short weeks and then I will be on vacation. I just put in for an extension of time so with the holiday I will be out a full 2 weeks. That's going to be great for me until it's time to go back and then I know I won't want to.

Saturday, I got up and got moving early despite not really wanting to. Went to grab the mail, then stopped for a fast-food breakfast. Came back home to kill a little bit of time and then it was back out to get my hair cut. Came home after that and started on Laundry. I had plenty to wash and it was truly an all-day task. The cats were both confused as to why I was in the basement so early on a Saturday but that didn't stop them from joining me. I had to give Mora some attention to pacify her and then I was able to work on the computer.

Got address labels printed for Christmas cards. Wrote a Christmas letter to a former co-worker I had sent the letter to more people before but this year just her. Everyone else is just getting a card. I got some nice cards off Amazon; they came in a box that is held close by a strong magnet. The envelopes are peel and stick. The cards are all set to go, just need to put postage on them, hopefully that doesn't take them over to needing additional postage. I've weighed them and I've got 2 ounces to play with so we shall see how it goes once I apply stamps.

Went out to grab cat food and then for Chinese food. I was later than I wanted to be and had to drive in the dark. It wasn't bad just something I really don't relish. Came back home and finished up laundry. Played on the computer a bit more.

Sunday, was kind of a day to relax but I did have house cleaning to take care of. It was nice not having to worry about laundry though. Played on the computer for a brief bit. Hit up the grocery store and target earlier in the morning. I'm all set for Turkey Day. Got a surprise for my friend, her birthday is on Sunday the 30^th. Watching from years past I learned that she likes Pistachios so I got a bag from the store. Never knew that nuts were so damn expensive. I got a card for her and then stopped by the ATM for some money. It's kind of nice that it dispensed all new money but it sticks together. I spread it out in the card and put a piece of tape so it's easy for her to see how much I am giving her. I know that she is going to throw a fit and not want to take it. However, she does so much for others I'm telling her before I give it to her to promise me that she will do something for herself. Besides that, all of the food her and her husband feed me throughout the year costs money and they are older and retired, money doesn't come easy to either of them.

Went out late again and this time for Mexican food. I got to drive in the dark. Got the car washed on the way back kind of felt strange going to the car wash when it was dark but it worked out quite well. Once I got inside, I passed out treats for the cats. Then settled in on the couch to catch up on social media. I wasn't able to get my fix for it on Saturday time just ran out on me. Mora got sick twice while I was browsing and I had to stop and clean up her mess. Once I got caught up, I waited for her to come sit with me on the couch and I broke out the brush and the fur went flying. She is just a walking fur factory. Since she is larger than her brother it's worse. Her brother isn't covered in the thickness like she is. I got to work on her nails and she put up quite the fight as per usual. We got into it but in the end, I won and she got her nails trimmed. She snapped at me and cried but at least I wasn't bitten or scratched in the process. Hey I get it; I'm not a fan of trimming my own nails. It used to send shivers up my spine as a kid but today not so much.

Watched a little TV and then it was time to wrap up and get my shower and shave before heading to bed. I got to spend some time by myself as both cats were napping on the couch when I walked into my room. That is rare and I take it for as long as it lasts.

This morning started off with nothing going on but the second I tried to write this post I got slammed. Now that is done, I am rushing to get this out before the next wave comes crashing in. It's time for cat lunch and I will take time to get a bit to eat as well. I'm having left over Chinese for supper tonight, that will set both the cats off and their noses will be working overtime. I will crack open my fortune cookie as well to see what words of insight are waiting for me.

TV is pretty much bare bones this week so it will be streaming all week or watching things that I have saved on the DVR. I always manage to find something even if the search takes longer. My back is screaming at me in need of a massage.

Here's hoping it's a great short work week and that I can enjoy the long weekend without being bothered. Fingers crossed!

Thanks for stopping by. Take care!