Life has to take a dump sometime

And I thought things were going to end up a great note this year. Of course not! We are talking about Ralphd00d here - Life ain't never that great to him. So what happened you ask? Let me tell you ...

I leave yesterday from the office for lunch, just up the road about a mile to Subway. I enjoy my lunch, have plenty of time to get back to the office, except now my car won't start. No turnover, power to everything. Just like last time about a month or less ago. I checked connections best I could and everything seemed ok. I finally gave up and called the roadside assistance I have for a tow. It took them over 2 hours to get a tow truck to me, plus I missed the afternoon from work.
So the tow driver gets my car to the garage I specify, and I just try to start it one more time. VROOM! Starts right up. Mother F'er. Either way, I left it there with them to run some tests on the battery, starter, alternator, and see if they can find what the problem may be. I am beginning to think it may be the battery bad internally. I just got this battery about 3 months ago - and then the problems started happening.

So today, my FIL was nice enough to loan me his car to get to and from work. Hopefully they will be able to find the problem and fix it on mine today - otherwise I will be without a vehicle until Monday. ::sigh:: I am scared to say what else may go wrong.

It's early today for me to be in at work, but had to in order to pick up the car.Maybe I will be back later with more to post. Right now, I am trying to get everything done on my desk before anyone comes in.

PeacE

Short on time for reflections

It's that time of year again, where everyone starts to reflect on the past year and start making decisions about what was best, what was worst, and what resolutions they are going to stick to next year. Radio stations will do their year's best countdown; bloggers will have lists of greats and bads; their be lists all over the place. Frankly I don't give a damn. And no, I am not doing a list for you either.

Resolutions are nothing more than excuse makers. People make them, then break them just as fast. I will grant though, that some people can actually stick to theirs, but I would say a majority don't. Me? I am simple about it. I don't make them. I can say I am going to quit smoking - then I'll remember I made that resolution as I am halfway through my morning cigarette on the 1st. I just don't waste my time. If I am going to resolve anything, might as well start now rather than next week.

I do sit back and reflect on things that happened this past year. If I don't, I forget things that are important like: the Daughter's 16th birthday and getting her learner's permit. But I also think of some of the bad things that happened: The youngest son & I both having pneumonia, but got better quickly. Of course there are the other general things I think about too: trips to Mexico and San Diego, miscellaneous fun times with the family. Oh well. I will have to sit down and do more of this later....

So with New Years approaching, does anyone have exciting plans? Since I am a professional drinker, I am not driving anywhere. Let the Wife do that. Figure we will hear/read about the amateurs and how many accidents/tickets/arrests were made the previous night. Sheriff Joe is good about posting his numbers, the fat bastard.

Okay, I am out of here. The stomach is rumbling for it's mid day meal. Think I will head to Subway today, instead of salad. The Wife picked up some 'Cajun Tuna' and 'Honey BBQ Salmon' in ready to eat servings for me. I am almost scared to try them. Yeah, a sub today I think. Y'all be back tomorrow for some more drivel.

PeacE

One down, and One to go

Christmas is over, mostly, for my year. I say mostly since I have a couple presents that are still needing to be delivered to a couple friends. The shipping didn't make it here in time for one, and the other is out of town prior to the holiday. No biggee.

I hope you all had great times over this past weekend. I spent Saturday with the kids whilst the Wife finished shopping. The kids finally put the tree up that night. Sunday I spent the afternoon out with friends, then went to another friend's place to watch my Redskins beat Minnesota (YES!). Now if they can only beat Dallas next week - in Dallas. I would like to make the wild card slot. Monday I spent again with the kids as the Wife had to work. We spent most of the day wrapping gifts and getting things ready for Christmas day. That evening I went out so the Wife could finish what we didn't wrap, and I was ready for a drink.

Christmas dawned early after not getting to bed until late. The kids I think, had their best Christmas with the gifts we got them. The youngest son, this was basically his first Christmas where he could interact better, and he did a wonderful job opening his gifts. Next we went to my parents and exchanged gifts then munched on goodies until my brothers family showed up and did it again. My brother was lucky to be home. He had spent the previous 2 weeks in Germany for his two week maneuvers, and made the last flight out of O'Hare on the 22nd to be home in time. After that we spent lunch at my in-laws, and again exchanged presents. Lastly we ended up at my sister's, where my parents and brother's clan ended up as well. The ladies all ended playing that dance revolution-type game on PlayStation most of the evening. We made it home about 7:30ish - the Wife and I both extremely tired. I was in bed by 9 and asleep by 9:00:10 I think. Sure felt like it anyways.

So, one holiday down and one to go for the season. At least for the next one, I ain't driving. I leave that up to the Wife, since she doesn't drink. I figure we will be spending it at my sister's, and end up drinking and playing poker for the evening. Will be a fun night for us and all the kids will be playing good as well.

Work started off slow today. I get in and the is no phone, email, or Internet available. Plus I forgot my cell phone, so I can't even use that to make calls. I basically got to sit here for about 2 hours before they got things fixed. Now I am still all caught up and wishing time would speed up. Three hours to go. ::sigh::

Okay, I am outta here for now. Thanks for stopping by!

PeacE

Equations that really piss me off

EDIT: For those of you tagged, see the post before this one... sorry.

Today folks, we are going to do some math as seen by people that live in 'larger cities' or high density population areas.

Let's start off by explaining that today is Friday. Always a busy day.

Another given is it is leading into a 4 day weekend for many, many people.

Shall we add in, that this particular holiday promotes large numbers of purchases from multiple outlets?

And can't forget the number of travelers to and from town.

So, I guess the best way to make this into an equation:

Friday + 4 day weekend + major shopping + extra vehicles on road = Merry fucking Christmas.

I hate having to deal with traffic on a Friday afternoon on a regular week, but today I fear it is going to be bad. I was running about a half hour late to work this morning, as I had to go to the Post Office to pick up a parcel. The drive to work took me even longer than normal due to the traffic. I hope the bosses let us go early.

Maybe I can do a math problem that will make me feel better...

Go hang out with friends, play some games, have some drinks.

Friends + games + Bud and Jack = Happy Ralphd00d

Hey, what do ya know... it works! See y'all later on. In Case you ain't back in time,

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

PeacE

AH! I been tagged!

1)Link to the person that tagged you. That will be Amazing Facts and post the rules on your blog.These are the rules.
2) Share Christmas facts about yourself.
3. Tag 7 random people at the end of your post, and include links to their blogs.
4) Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.Here goes:

1. Wrapping or gift bags? Gift bags. Reusuable and can carry items easier.

2. Real or artificial tree? Artificial, real ones leave a mess and are getting more and more expensive. If you want the smell, buy the scent.

3. When do you put up the tree? About a week before.

4. When do you take the tree down? By the 27th.

5. Do you like eggnog? Mixed with some brandy – you bet!

6. Favorite gift received as a child? At 10, my very first rifle.

7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes. But it isn’t set up.

8. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I don’t recall any off hand.

9. Mail or email Christmas cards? I don’t do either.

10. Favorite Christmas movie? Rudolph – the one Burl Ives is the snowman.

11. When do you start shopping for Christmas? About Dec 1st.

12. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Haven’t had it in years – white divinity candy

13. Clear lights or colored? colored

14. Favorite Christmas song? “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”

15. Travel at Christmas or stay at home? Prefer stay at home, but we travel to 3 places on
Christmas day – all within a 5 mile radius.

16. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer? Yes, Blitzen, Comet, Cupid, Dancer, Dasher, Donner,
Prancer, Vixen, and of course Rudolph.

17. Angel or star on the top of your tree? Star.

18. Open your presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? Christmas morning.

19. Most annoying thing about this time of year? People being too damn politically correct with “Happy Holidays” Instead of Merry Christmas

20. What do you leave for Santa? A Bud and cookies (I get to play Santa)

21. Least favorite holiday song? Jingle Bells – especially the version with the barking dog

22. Do you decorate your tree with any specific theme or color? Nope

23. Favorite ornament? Don’t really have one.

24. Family tradition? My house we do Christmas that morning, then go to Grandma’s, then the
other Grandma’s for lunch then my sister’s.

25. Ever been to Midnight Mass or late-night Christmas Eve services? Yes.

Now, who should I tag? Let's go with Dazd, My Little Sis, Rainbow Wolf, Freddie, Redneck Princess, Richmond, and JB onthe Rocks. Sorry guys - had to get someone.

PeacE

Only 4 days left for you last minute people!!

Christmas is almost here. Duh! you say to me. As if you didn't know it. The Wife still has some shopping to finish. Inside I laugh at her, and try not to smile outwardly. As I have said several times before, I am not a Christmas type of person. I really don't care for the holiday - though I love the looks of joy on my kids faces (and nieces/nephews) when they open gifts. Reminds me of that mysterious anxiety I felt as a kid opening gifts. That twinkle in their eyes, and the hugs and thank yous - just gets ya right there ::taps chest:: Getting back on track about not liking the holiday, but this year, I actually am feeling a bit different. Maybe because I finally have matured (yeah right) or gained clearer understanding (ha ha) that I am getting more in the 'spirit' than I usually do. I don't know if that is a good thing or a bad thing...

Good lunch today. I went to Subway and cheated a bit on my diet. I had a 6 inch Roast Beef with double meat, a diet coke, and a bag of salt & vinegar chips. Where did I cheat? I ate the bread, and ate the chips. Oh well. I will be joining a new gym here over the holidays. The one I was attending is just far enough to be simply inconvenient travel-wise. The new one my step dad attends, and is way closer to home. And the monthly fee is cheaper.

Only one more day of work left and then I head into a 4 day weekend. I snicker at the Wife as she has to work Monday. I suppose I am going to be the good hubby by spending Monday wrapping the presents for everyone - well, maybe. I guess that means over the weekend she is going to have to put tags on the items so I know who gets what. But I'll have the kids at home to help out as well. I am actually surprised they don't have the tree up yet. They must be planning on doing it this weekend.

Welp, I am out of here for now. I have a book to read until something comes across my desk. Y'all have a good rest of the day and I will see ya tomorrow!

PeacE

Nada, Zilch, Zip, Nothing, Zero

I got nothing for you today. I feel like it is yesterday, because I had nothing then either. But it is Wednesday (Hump Day) so I suppose I could attempt to track down some bumps....

Now there's more than a week's worth of bumps there! Even some extra for Christmas!! Here are a couple more funnies I thought I would put up for you as well.

PeacE

Only thing left is wrapping the damn things!

That's how close to being ready for Christmas I am as of this point. I was able to take the boys out and finish up Sunday afternoon. Man, the crowds were just terrible! I am so glad I am done. I checked with the Wife, and she has yet to finish up some shopping. The kids are done as well. Now I just need to wrap, and deliver. I sure hope I have Monday off next week. It would be a good time for me to get that done, plus help the Wife finish up her wrapping since she will have to work.

Saturday was a good day of golf! Only shot a +5, and landed 4th place Net Score. That was worth a $25 certificate for the golf course. My step dad and I will have to get out and play again sometime. Was nice weather and I had 2 birdies (really good for me!). I spent the rest of the day at the pub, and won an auction for the karaoke host that night. We are going to get together for drinks later this week - the pub gives him $$ for dinner, but I said screw that. I ain't going out to eat with him - we'd do drinks somewhere.

Sunday I slept in. I never made it to the Church of Holy softball and Beer, nor my steak breakfast. Nor my friend's house for a birthday party. I did good to get the shopping done, and went tot he Christmas play my two older boys were in that evening. Of course, they were wonderful in it. The older one even had a big speaking part (his first) and a solo. Afterwords, we took my parents out for supper, and home to bed I went.

My youngest woke up about 3'ish this morning screaming his head off. Couldn't tell if he was hurt, or scared or uncomfortable about anything. Took the Wife about an hour to get him to where we all could go back to sleep. The Daughter gets up this morning, coughing phlegm - so we told her she wasn't going to school. She was ticked. Imagine that - a kid WANTING to go to school. She has finals Tues - Thurs this week. At least she can stay home today and try to get some rest to feel better.

Not much else to really talk about right now. I think I am headed to the pub tonight for steak dinner and the football game. Looking forward to Chicago winning, but I doubt it will happen.

PeacE

Drinking and Sports - what an idea!

It's one of my most favorite days of the week - Friday! Which means two days of not having to go to the office to read and pretend that there is a purpose for me being there. Unfortunately, the weekend is pretty much planned out, not leaving much room for additional plans.

Saturday - This day is starting earlier than my normal workday. There is a Bloody Mary Christmas party starting about 7am that lasts until tee time of about 10am. The pubis having it's annual golf tournament which I and the step dad are playing in. More like participating - we do our best to stay out of last place. Then after golf there is the free lunch at the pub, plus prizes. I usually do not get out of there until late afternoon, then I am pretty much worn out for the day and head home. It'll be nice to get out and swing some clubs though. I haven't done that since about April. My buddies get out more often, but I usually am not invited - I think it is because I stink - I need more practice.

Sunday - Yes, my religious day. Another day starting earlier than work - I attend the Church of Holy Beer and Softball starting about 7:30. This will be the first time we have been able to play due to the rains the past two weekends. I might be out of practice keeping score - NOT! Then after the game(s?) it's to the pub for football games.

I tell you what, this pub sure makes quite a bit of money off of me. I should invest in it.

Friday night what am I doing? I have no clue. Wonder if I will be able to leave work early today or not...

Hope you guys enjoyed the eye candy from the past couple days. I need to get more and find some better stuff. In the meantime - get your shopping done! I know I need to do more yet for the family myself.

PeacE

It's (yawn) Your Lucky Day

I am tired. I wasn't up late last night, but I was the night before. I guess my body is still trying to make up for lost time. I think tonight I will be hitting the sack earlier than normal.

No stories or remembrances of note for you today. But I did find some pics I think I will share with you.

Nothing like some boobies and beer!


These looked nice ... Want help cleaning up?


That's one lucky baby!


What is your motivation?


Sometimes, you don't have to say anything...

PeacE

Bumps for Hump Day

Not much to really write about today. Took third place in poker last night - and stayed out too long. I think tonight I am going to head home and rest up or something. Maybe.

Here's some bumps for the Hump day!







PeacE

Stuff snagged for fun!

from Ambulance Driver :

My blog is worth $7,339.02.
How much is your blog worth?

From Amazing Facts:

Hurry! Time is running out!

It has been due for awhile. I mean, last year was bad enough, but this year, I have been waiting for it to hit, and I think it has started. Yes, we are talking about Bad Luck, and it has been amassing in my name for most of this year. I guess now with only three weeks left in the year, it is time to collect.

I wake up this morning feeling feverish with a runny nose. I don't need to be sick right now. I just got over that cold about a two weeks ago. I run my daughter to early band practice, and return home for my additional hour plus sleep. I wake up and I am running 10 minutes behind already (had to have that extra snooze). Cruise to work, stop at the gas station 4 blocks from the office for some milk and tea. Now the car doesn't start. No click - no grind - power to everything else. I get out and do the regular thing - check connections to be sure tight, etc. Still nothing. I call work - not going to be in as I need to get this fixed and have no idea what's wrong. Call the FIL to see if he can assist. He can. I wait a few minutes and try again - car starts. Called FIL back so he doesn't waste time driving over. I drive to local car fix it place. They would need me to leave my car there all day and wait for the incident to happen again to determine what it is. No can do. Back across town to work - and hour late, without the milk (left it at home so it wouldn't spoil). Everyone at work has a different idea of what is wrong with my car - but I know the truth. It's my 2007 Bad Luck payoff. I know it is. So now I wait until something happens to the car again, and hope I am not in the middle of nowhere at 2AM.

Tonight is Poker night. I wonder if I should waste time going for my bad luck?

Damn I sound negative today. In that case, I am out of here until I feel better.

PeacE

Cookies, carols, cake, Christmas trees, and - CRAP!

I have always said I am not one that is very fond of the Christmas season. I have nice memories of when I was young, and have some from very recent. But overall, I just don't care for the season. Whether it is because I am not religious, or that I detest the fact that they spend too much money and time advertising for this one day. I do truly love the looks of joy on my kids faces when they receive a present they like, but I can do that any day of the year. I don't restrict myself to this one day.

So the Wife and I (plus our youngest - almost 2) went to the only Christmas party we will probably attend this year. It was over at my friends Smitty and Sailyn's place. They outdid themselves again! There were seemingly more people, and more food, and more of a good time by all. Sailyn has this crafty sense for invitations, and the one we received was a palm tree made from clay with the invitation written/stenciled into the ornament. I'm thinking - palm tree - for Christmas? Well, they had a sailboat out front in the desert landscape lit up with lights, so it was almost a Caribbean-type setting. Way cool! Good job guys! The Wife had a wonderful time being out with adults and not having too many problems with the kids.

It's hard staying on this diet. I have not exercised in over a week now due to the back pain I am still experiencing. I believe I still have lost weight though, just watching what I eat - though that is difficult at times as well.

My brother left for Germany on Saturday morning. I had spent Friday night over at his place putting down some beers an ended up staying the night and driving him to the airport. This is his annual 2 week training for Reserves. Of course, he is due back about the 23rd of Dec, but not sure if he will make it all the way home for Christmas. Either way, he is switching to active duty come the 1st of the year. No idea where he will be stationed, but the family will be able to move there at least.

Rain has come to the valley again, and has been off and on all weekend, and plans to be here through at least tomorrow. I still need to get new wiper blades. ::sigh::

Posting may be sporadic this month. Not a lot going on, nothing exciting happening, and all may just make me post-less for a day or so. I noticed I started catching this last week. Actually, I am out hunting for pics to put up on here, and weird phrases so I get Google hits - NOT!

Okay, I am out of here. Go finish your shopping online, or whatever before you come back!

PeacE

Thursday Night Football!!!

I anxiously await tonight's NFL game between the Chicago Bears and my Washington Redskins. I know we need another win for our record. But better yet is my friend Ginny is a big Bears fan, and I would like them to lose to us. Plus the steak dinner we have bet on the game would be nice to win too.

Not much else to write about today. My back is still hurting, so again I won't be at the gym. I can almost bend over to fasten my shoes, but not quite. Hopefully tomorrow will be better and I can get back into a regular routine.

Supposed to rain again this weekend here in the desert. Which reminds me I need to get new wiper blades. After being dry all summer and fall, the current ones are near worthless in last weekends rain.

Okay, enough for now. I am off to read my blog list and my book I brought to work today - Jeffery Archer's "Cat O' Nine Tails" - so far a nice collection of short stories.

PeacE

Gimpin' along

I still hurt. I am not going to the gym tonight either. I figure one more day of rest for the back will do it wonders. At least the legs don't hurt today, but that lower back - I barely move in a wrong direction and it flares up nicely. Ibuprofen just ain't cutting it. I think I have some Jack at home for after work. I hope it will be enough.

It's December - that wonderful month of retail sale explosions and having last minute rushes to the local corner mart for a last minute present. Sister Susie always wanted a garlic hand press. Dad always like a 5 lb bag of potatoes. Mom really loves the arrangement of Hamburger Helper mixes you picked out! But really, it is a time of parties, of getting together with friends and family, and sometimes mass murders. This year I have been blessed to be invited to a friend's home for a Christmas party, and I always look forward to this one. I guess I have been lucky and it is the only one I have been invited to this year. Maybe last year I had too much eggnog at the other ones - I dunno.

I did notice this is the first year we are not having a company Christmas dinner. Talk about finances being tight!

I was listening tot he talk radio show here in the valley (KTAR) yesterday afternoon, and the talk was about the government getting involved in the mortgage/housing industry. Some thing to the effect it is the largest decline in the industry over the last 20 years. Which is a worthless comment. Sure it is the largest because more homes are out there. But it was mentioned that the Gov't may freeze the interest rate in order for - here is the quote form the radio - "the financially responsible people to assist them in preventing their homes from going into foreclosure". WTF? I consider myself financially responsible and my house is not in Foreclosure. If they are supposed to be responsible people, should they not be in that position in the first place? ::shakes head:: Sometimes it just appals me to hear shit like this. Just what I need is the gov't butting into my line of work and screwing things up. Yeah, yeah, I know - welcome to the real world.

Enough of that off my chest. I am headed out for a smoke break. Y'all have a good one.

PeacE

I was beaten up and left for dead

Monday was not a good day. First, I overslept the alarm. I figured I must have shut it off when I thought I hit snooze. So I wake up about an hour and half late for work. I go to get out of bed and hustle to get dressed and hit the floor. Sometime in my sleep, someone had taken a lead pipe and beat the hell out of my legs and lower back. I was in pain. I managed after a few minutes to do my bathroom duties and grab my cell phone. I called into work and explained I was not going to make it in due to the pain. How did I get this pain? My new exercise regime for the gym.



So Saturday I had met with the nutritionist (owner) and was placed a special diet. I no longer need to attend the classes I was going to, but in place I have to do a 1 hour cardio workout 7 days a week. As far as my diet, I can eat as much on the lists as I want, whenever I want, but will have to give up a lot of things like bread and grains, pasta, potatoes, etc. Lots of meat and veggies though! He says if I stay on the menu plan, and do the workouts I can lose 10-15 lbs the first 4 weeks. My wife was not thrilled to see the menu plan. She put her foot down at fixing 2 separate meals, so I told her not to worry about me - I would do my own thing and she would not have to buy special foods or anything.



Sunday was the best day to start the exercising, then I was planning to go shopping for the menu. I went in and did my 1 hour workout, then headed out for steak breakfast (which is on the menu). I didn't get a chance to go shopping. Monday I didn't go shopping. Today I am at work for a limited time. I am already hurting bad, and I need to get back to the gym at least today since I didn't go yesterday either. Must be physical hell week for me.

I am outta here - time for some more ibuprofen I think. Y'all have a good one - I know I am trying to get out of work early today....

PeacE

Sunday night quickie

Here I am posting twice on a weekend. Damn! What is wrong with me? New diet, new workout regime. Hell, it all must be going to my brain.

Anyways, I know I have some new stuff about my "new" life come later today (Monday). Be prepared to come back (for those that are here early) and see what new drivel I have in my life now. Oh wait! You might even hear how a family member pissed me off this weekend.

Gotta love the soap opera, right?

PeacE

just a little update

Well, I found out my shoulder is in worse shape then I thought. I have strained/possibly torn, then supra spinatus muscle in the rotator cuff muscle group. Which means no lifting weights, which means no more gym classes. Oh shit.

I met with the gy owner today for the nutritionist class. I love it! I'll explain on Monday.

No softball - too much rain in the desert.

PeacE

New meaning to "hurts so good"

It has been a few years since I have heard that song from John Cougar Mellencamp. In case you don't remember it, here's a glimpse : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSHGT9bATdc
So what is so great about hurting good? I was at the gym last night for one of my classes. This particular one is called 'BodyFlow' and consists of mainly tai-chi, pilates, and yoga positions/stretching for an hour. I usually sweat more during this class than any other, it truly is difficult. By the end of the hour though, my body is humming, and you get this little thrill of euphoria going on. By far a damn good workout...but I need to lose more of this fat... Anyways, I am getting off topic. So we are in the this phase change from 'Dog to the Moon' (or something) to 'Plank" (which is push-up position) and lowering slowly, when my shoulder emits a loud 'POP'! My shoulder crumbles under me, and all my weight flops down onto the mat, making a nice belly-flop sound (amidst a shower of perspiration flying off my face/head). I quickly roll to the other side to check my shoulder. The instructor, who is on a hands-free mic blurts out "Oh, somebody is feeling some movement today!"

I wanted to slap the shit out of her. I glance around and a few people around me are staring my direction to see if I literally blew the shoulder out. I rubbed it and swung my arm around. It actually had a better range of movement than before, so I tried to get back into the routine, but every time we came to the push-up, I couldn't support the weight on the shoulder. So to make a longer story shorter, I went home and had that hot shower, with extra attention on the shoulder, took some ibuprofen, and went to bed. This morning, it feels like I hit it against a door jamb, and flares when I am lifting something of weight higher than my shoulder. I was talking to one of my bosses (the one that rags on me constantly about getting into the gym, etc) and he mentioned it was my first "rib" pop. Basically, the muscles had not been worked/shifted from regular position in so long, that with just the small workouts I have been doing 'popped' the muscles into a better position to allow more movement. Hurts a bit, but for a good reason. I will go with some minor pain and greater range of movement - as long as the pain will disappear like a bruise.

Ain't it great hearing about my overweight out of shape body? You know you love it. Especially when I say anal warts. That just brings out such a nasty picture don't it? I had to see how gross that condition could be, so I did a google on it. I couldn't stand to look at some of the pics.... barf-o-rama!! Thanks to any higher power I ain't got that on my ass! The 15 pounds extra I carry there is bad enough!

On to bigger and better things. I scheduled my update meeting with the nutritionist last night. They regular one at the gym had to relinquish her position for family matters, and now the owner is doing them. So he mentioned that to me last night and says, "Usually I have them bring in what they have been eating, but in your case, Ralph, I already got a meal plan for you!" Fucking sucks to have your boss friends with the owner of the gym, who is now also your nutritionist, and no way to cheat on the plan at lunch or anything. Not that I want to cheat, but being ragged about what I am eating is pure bullshit. It ain't damn boot camp.

Tomorrow, geez, is going to be a full day. I will have to do a work out in the morning, nutritionist meeting at 10, Video Golf tournament at 1, and who knows how long that will last. Then Sunday I have softball, followed by another workout in the gym that afternoon, so I guess I won't be drinking at the pub watching football games. ::sigh:: Probably better for me anyways. I'll find a way to make up for it I am sure. The pub is having a real golf tournament coming up the 15th so I wonder how my newer muscles and range of motion will affect my swing. I can think it will only improve it - you should seen how I played before!

I watched a decent movie last night. I had picked it out on a whim from Netflix. It is called "Neverwas" and has a few big namers in it : William Hurt, Jessica Lange, Ian McKellen. The oldest son sat down and watched it with me as well, and at the end he said he really liked it. I also recently watched 'Children of Men' which I recommend as well. The other one this past week was 'The Five People you Meet in Heaven'. John Voight is in it, so I thought it would be good, but I was sort of let down. I mean, the story line wasn't bad, just didn't meet the expectations I thought the movie was going to show. I still have Spiderman 3 (waiting on a good family night to watch it) and 'Live Free or Die Hard'. Perhaps I will get to watch one of them tonight - who knows.

Well, for lack of anything much else to complain about today, this weekend is supposed to be a rainy one for the Phoenix area. they are saying 90% chance tomorrow, plus showers off and on today... leading into Sunday. Maybe no softball then. Hmmmm. I love the rain, especially lightning shows in the desert... but the fuckers that do not know how to drive on wet streets here in the valley is the worse I have ever seen! It could be blinding rain and they will be going 65 mph down the freeway, with no lights on. And you can't hardly see the painted lines here when it rains. They are made to be visible in the sunlight, not rain.... Oh well. Nothing I say is going to change things. I just buckle up and play defensive driver.

Alright, I think I have said enough for one day. I hope you all have a good weekend, and get all your Christmas stuff done! Oh sheesh! I forgot I got a party coming up for that soon too. Definitely need to get my shopping done!

PeacE

Feeling closer to the end of the week

I am feeling better. I wonder if it has to do with there only being one more workday this week. Whether that is the case or not, I finally am kicking this head cold. Today I can actually smell somethings, and no sinus pressure. I guess taking off half the day yesterday helped tremendously.

So what are the exciting plans for the next few days? Not much. I haven't been to the gym since I have had the cold, so tonight, tomorrow, and Saturday will be my make-up days. Saturday afternoon I have a Golden Tee Tournament I am signed up for. Blind draw for partners and first place is around $280. Not bad for a $20 entry. Sixteen slots in total, plus the bar is putting up prize money as well.

Hopefully there will be a check for me tomorrow and will be able to get some more Christmas shopping done sometime over the weekend. I think I will let the kids put up the tree earlier than normal this year. Usually I only let it up 1 week before, and it has to come down prior to New Years. Christmas is not on my list of favorite holidays. But for some reason (might be the meds) I am feeling generous this year.

Barely after 10 and I am done for the day. Yee haw. Sit here and try not to sleep for the next 7 1/2 hours. Don't you wish you had my job?

PeacE

things taken again

Stolen from Parkwayreststop.

92%DRUNKARD

Nothing seems funny today

I am still feeling this cold. Last night it seemed I woke up every two hours, usually from some weird-ass dream (probably induced from the medication I am taking for the cold) so I am a bit irritable today. With this being EOM week, you'd think that would cause mass amounts of problems for my co-workers, but this week certainly is not going to be a ball buster. I have hardly anything to pressure for closing this week. Not good, but makes for an easier week being sick.

I have been reading the newest release from Stephen R Donaldson the past few days. I am sure some of you remember the Thomas Covenant series (there were two trilogies). Well, a few years back he decided to do one last chronicle. the first book was "The Runes of the Earth", and the second book was just released a few weeks ago titled "Fatal Revenant". I am only a third through the book and am anxious to see how it ends. But seeing how it is a new release, I am taking my time and reading this book only prior to going to bed. Most of my other reading time is amongst whatever books I can get my hands on from friends or whatnot. My book reading has put my magazine reading behind, so today I brought a stack of about 20 magazines in to work to review whilst on downtime here. I am already a third through that stack today, adding movies I want to see to my Netflix queue.

I am actually looking forward to another extra day off soon. Unfortunately that won't be until Christmas. I see it falls on a Tuesday this year, so I wonder if I will get Monday off as well. Would be nice to have another 4 day weekend, then followed up possibly the next week for New Year's as well. Probably too much to ask for, but I am hoping.

Speaking of Christmas, it is time to start shopping if you haven't already. The Wife and I try to get most of ours done by the second week of December, but you know sometimes how that can get messed up. I am trying to order stuff from online, but have to watch what I order. Noting for the wife since she sees the bank account. But I did pick up a couple good book series for my oldest son, and a nephew of the same age. That leaves many more still to go. I suppose this weekend I will have to sit with the Wife and see what stuff she has been able to complete early this year, and then we will go from there. Since my sister and brother read here, I am not getting you any presents, and expect the same from you. I am just concentrating on kids this year, outside my immediate family.

Other than that, today I only have rambling thoughts I need to take care of, like :

- I need to stop and get air in the front tires - they are looking a bit low. But no gas station on the right side of the road on the way home.

- My younger sister (about 11 years younger than I) has met a guy that is closer in age to me, then her. I need to sit down and think about that...

- Should I start sending out my resume again, especially if work doesn't start picking up?

- Tonight is Poker night - wonder if I should go feeling the way I do. I need to win 2nd place again so I have 2 more free steak dinners as I used my last one up on Sunday.

- Ugh! My hair. Should I buzz it down again, or actually let it grow out. I should shave the beard too since it has those off centered grey patches coming in. I don't know.

- I need to plan my next trip to somewhere. I can't decide - Indiana or Montana? Geez, will I have the money for the airline and rental car for either?

Okay, enough ponderables for now. Obviously I have my plate full enough for the moment. Have a good Tuesday, and maybe tomorrow will be better for both of us.

PeacE

Some humor and other things ...

It would take 43 bottles of Budweiser (U.S) to kill me

It would take 38 shots of Whiskey to kill me

I phoned up a really gorgeous ex-girlfriend of mine
the other day.

We lost track of time, chatting about the wild nights
we used to enjoy together.

I couldn't BELIEVE it when she asked if I'd like to
meet up and maybe rekindle a little of that magic.

Wow!" I said "I don't know if I could keep pace with
you now! I'm a bit older and a bit balder than when you last saw me!"

She giggled and said she was sure I'd meet the
challenge!

Yeah," I said, "Just so long as you don't mind a man
with a waistband that's a few inches wider these days!"

She laughed and told me to stop being so silly! She
teased me, saying she thought tubby bald men were cute!

"Anyway", she said, "I've put on a couple of pounds
myself!"

So I hung up on the fat bitch.

Back to the regular programmed world

It is Monday, and I am sure not liking life today. I am coming down with a cold, so I have the stuffy head, clogged sinuses, headache, and body ache thing going on. Plus having to get in to work since I have stuff to take care from having 4 days off. ::sigh::

Thanksgiving was alright. I had made 3 pies of my dessert specialty, one went to my sister's, the other two went with my family to Cottonwood where we had dinner with the Wife's family. Weather was nice and the trip wasn't too long. I ate heartily, and was careful about how much of stuff I ate. I had been tot he gym that morning for the weekly weigh-in - lost 1/4 inch and gained a pound. My shoulders are getting bigger and the arms/chest a bit more defined. I don't know if I am going to continue the gym thing though. I don't like having to waste time waiting on a class to start, and having to work at their pace only. I'd rather a work out at my own pace. I haven't decided what I am going to do, except no classes while I am sick.

Alright, I am outta here to go make some phone calls to put out fires. Maybe be back later for some more drivel.

PeacE

Pre-Holiday wrap-up with pics

Welcome to Wednesday, the day before my second favorite holiday, TurkeyDay. The first is St Patrick's Day (an excuse for good Irish drinking if I ever needed one) in case you were wondering. For most of us, I am sure today is the last working day of the week , going into a nice 4 day weekend. Of course, many of you are having family over so that is one less day, or two, depending if they come from out of town or not.

Myself, well, the familia will be heading north to Cottonwood for our lunch. We decided to go to the Wife's family dinner this year. It will be a grueling 2 hour drive there, and probably longer coming back. For some reason, holiday traffic coming into Phoenix gets very backed up and traffic delays are just terrible. As they say here, we are like 20 years behind in freeway development compared to the population growth. Luckily we are only going for the day.

My older sis is nice sometimes. Today, she had her husband come out to my office to pick something from me, and she sent me chocolate chip cookies! Too bad I really can't have any - the diet regime and all. I was the nice guy though and offered everyone in the office some. Now I have the container on my desk with about 4 cookies left. I hear them calling for me to eat them - but I have resisted so far.

Well, it is mid morning now, and I am still waiting to see if the bosses are going to come in. Everyone is talking about how early we may get out of here today, and I am one wanting that to happen as early as possible. There is nothing for me to work on at the moment, and I do not foresee anything coming across my desk today, especially with everyone worrying about leaving early rather than working.

Welp, it was bound to come around, and here it is. Time for me to head out for the weekend. I'll try to get back in here Friday maybe, and see how everyone else had fun on the holiday. Reverend Mother, don't read further - but everyone else can iffen ya want. For the holiday I posted some pics I have stolen from different sights. Enjoy!

In the meantime, THANK YOU for stopping by and letting me share my thoughts with ya! Have a good TurkeyDay!

PeacE

I fart in your general direction!

If the last week could have been considered National Gas Week, today would have been the top day of the week. Seems like every 30 seconds I gotta get up and walk outside, or to the restroom, and pass gas from the nether regions. Nothing really bad and smelly, just loud and funny as hell. Must be my body accommodating for the change in eating and food habits I been putting it through. Lord knows it isn't from too many beers.

It is almost lunch time, and I have spent all morning trying to get a Texas loan done. Texas is a state I hate - in terms of doing mortgage work. It's right next to New York and Georgia. I am *still* waiting on the lender to call me back for a change in documents to make sure our settlement sheet balances. 6 messages left to 4 different people, and no one calling back. Fucking ridiculous.

I am hoping that this is not an indication of my luck streak for the day. Tonight is poker, and it would be nice to get some more free steaks. I had my first one last night for the first time in weeks. Damn sure was tasty!!

Alrighty then. I am outta here for a bit. Think I will head up the road and get me some Subway sandwich.

PeacE

Some Holiday week humor for you ...

I came across this one in some email I received from a friend. Nice to know I am not the only one with this kind of humor, so I share with you!

A newly-wed couple wake up on the first morning of the their honeymoon in the Caribbean and decide to take a stroll down the beach.On their way they pass a shanty house, and sitting on the front porch is an overweight woman, stark naked, legs akimbo, eating a slice of watermelon.

The husband sees this and liking the idea of his new wife exhibiting her body in public asks her whether she would do the same.The wife looks at him in disgust and refuses.

The second morning they pass the shanty house again and, sure enough, the overweight woman is sitting on the porch stark naked, legs akimbo, eating another slice of watermelon. Not being put off be his new wife's refusal, the husband inquires of his wife, "Why don't you go over and ask that woman what it feels like to sit there naked, letting the air waft over your pussy?"

The wife again refuses.

This continues each morning for two weeks until it is the last day of the honeymoon. Each morning they would pass by the woman, each morning the husband would try to persuade his new wife to copy her and each morning the wife would refuse.However, it being the last morning the husband gives it one more try and inquires of his wife, "Why don't you go over and ask that woman what it feels like to sit there naked, letting the air waft over your pussy?"

The wife finally gives in, opens the gate of the shanty house and walks up to the overweight woman on the front porch. "What does it feel like to sit there naked, letting the air waft over your pussy?" she asks, hesitantly.

"I don't rightly know, replies the woman, "but it sure keeps the flies off of my watermelon."

Mommy is back! Yea!!

I never thought I would be so happy to see my wife again. I mean, it almost brought tears of joy and happiness to my eyes at the airport as I watched her coming down the walkway. The kids were excited she was back too, and I have every guess as to why. No one likes Daddy in a bad mood.

Friday night started off well. The 'Men' went to Lonestar for steak dinners. Leftovers were taken home - picked up the daughter from theater in time. Everything went ok. Saturday I was up early for a gym class, then took the kids to Denny's for breakfast. We went to the bank, got gas, went to Wal-mart and did some shopping. Followed that up with a trip to the used book store, where I turned my daughter onto Dean Koontz (she has problems putting down "Fear the Night"). Lunch soon followed at Dairy Queen before we finally made it back home to rest for a couple hours. Ran the daughter to school for theater, and went back home. Back to pick her up about 8:30 and then home for the evening.

Sunday was a busy day. I woke everyone at 7:15 and headed for the ballpark. A quick stop at McD's for breakfast, then we were at the park for a double header softball game. The kids behaved well there and things were going pretty good. After the park I took the boys to church for play practice and then we followed that with lunch at Top Shelf - a Mexican type restaurant. After lunch we went home. I was tired, worn out, and ready for a nap. About mid-afternoon, the oldest boy comes in and timidly wakes me up.

"What's up Bud?" I ask him.
"Dad, we were playing in my room and I was tossing the ball up on my bed when brother hit it with his pillow and it broke the window." Instinctively, he winces back.
"YOU WHAT?!? Broke a damn window?!?!?" Now I am awake and following him back to his room.
"Dad it was an accident."
"How could it be an accident if you aren't supposed to be throwing the ball in the house anyways? Now be quiet for a minute."

I surveyed the damage. Of course. It had the be non-regular sized window. ::sigh:: I gave up and called the Wife. She was at the gate waiting her flight home, so I explained what to expect when she got home. I told her it was safe. I was refraining from anger until she got home.

The kids walked, sat, and did everything else on eggshells that afternoon/evening, especially when we headed to the airport. The Wife was going to see if her father could run it up to the Home Depot and get glass cut for it today. I hope it gets done - I have no clue how to do that stuff.

So it is off to the gym tonight after all that eating out this week. Though I did take it easy, and did not overdue it. Still I think I could stand a couple more pounds off especially this being Turkeyday week. At least I only work 3 days this week.

Okay I am out of here for now. Got some checks to turn in so I can get paid later.

PeacE

Ding! Dong! The Wife is Gone!

Euphoria! That was what I was feeling until I got home last night. Here I was set for a weekend with the older kids, and my bubble got busted. Imagine if you will .... I went to the gym after work, then over to the pub for a couple beers (figured would be the last until the Wife is back home). I get home and first thing is I am handed an itenerary for the kids - not the Wife, the kids. Daughter has Theater, Oldest son has a church play practice, etc., etc. I am looking at this thinking 'Where am I going to find time to go get me a steak dinner?'

::sigh::

Either way, I am too tired to do much today/tonight. Been up extra early to get the Wife to the airport in time for her flight, then to work. I have a couple loans to get out and signed, but no one can access the database this morning. The bosses just arrived, and I have no idea how long it will take to get it up and running again. I just want to go home and take a nap.

Have a good weekend - come back onday to listen to my hellish weekend!

PeacE

Not much today ... just drawing a blank

Earlier this morning on the way to work, I had several ideas to write about today for your entertainment. I find myself doing that a lot lately on the drive to work - thinking of how to entertain you. Anyways, the traffic is rolling at 15 miles an hour (in a 65 zone, 3 lane freeway) and it's 3 miles to my exit. Several good ideas, but as soon as I pulled into my parking spot, my mind went blank. Literally. For a brief moment I had to figure out where I was, what day of the week it is, and what was I doing. That was a scary 30 seconds.

Yesterday I HAD to go to the gym. It was halfway through the week and I had not made any of my classes yet - too sore from walking at PIR on Sunday. I did the cardio workout class, and felt it. I was still a bit sore from Sunday, but I got through the class. DING, DING!! Good news is I lost another inch (total of 2 1/2 now) and 3 lbs. I have another class tonight, then finish up early Saturday morning.

Okay, nothing else for you guys right now. I may be back with more - depends on how busy the day gets.

PeacE

Wow! Two in as many days!

Go check it out over here. Another one for you to see an inside glimpse of my childhood.

PeacE

I need to go back and study 'The Gambler'

Geez, last night was not my night for cards. Unless I was playing low card winner. I guess some nights you got it, and some ya don't. I still have the 2 free steak dinners from last week, so I guess I shouldn't complain - too much anyways.

Tonight is the weigh-in at the gym. I am a little bit worried since I had a long weekend with no workouts. And the beer I drank. And the other stuff I drank. Yeah, I am a bit worried. Hoping to lost more of the waist, but not sure at this point.

Hoosierboy is in a place I wish I was this week. In fact, it helped remind me to drop a line to my grandparents. you would think with conveniences like e-mail you wouldn't necessarily get behind being in contact with people. But not me. I put off letter writing as a chore I guess.

Today is turning out to be a slow one. I have read 3 magazines, wrote 1 long letter, visited other mail drops on the internet, toured Myspace, and still it is only half way through the day. I am thinking an hour lunch is coming soon and I will head up to Subway for a 6" sub and read my book. At least it will get me away from here for an hour.

Two days until the Wife leaves. Last night I get informed of all the details that the kids have going on. So much for an easy weekend. Daughter has theater Fri and Sat. Oldest boy has church play practice Sun morning. But - I can still make the softball game prior to church and then take them there. Now I just got to figure dinner schedules around theater ... hate to eat that late at night.

Wife also reminded me to empty the camera prior to her leaving. I guess I will do that tonight. Maybe there will be some cute kids pics in there I can post up here for you to look at and say "How cute!". Yeah, my kids are like that.

Okay, I am off to lunch, and then back here to finish rolling through my blogroll for reads. Hope your day is going better than mine.

PeacE

Here's something to waste your time...

I posted a little story about my First Trip ever to Mexico. Go laugh and see how stupid I was when I was younger.

I wondered where my mentality was ....

I don't know if it is because I use smaller words, or what. Couldn't be from lack of swear words. Gotta be the word size.

PeacE

Have I been missed like a bad case of Diarhea?

I'm back amongst the living today it would seem. Yesterday was not a vacation day, unlike many of you Federal/State paid employees. No, I was sick. And I mean pretty bad. Too much sun this weekend I think.

Saturday we spent 3 hours in the sun, watching the daughter's State Marching Band competition. Her band ended up winning a Superior with a caption for musical performance. They were only a 0.5 point from a Superior with Distinction. Out of all the bands we heard, they definitely were the best sounding, and I (though I may appear biased) though they had the best show as well. Prolly a good thing I am not a judge! But where they held the competition... I don't care to make that drive again. Forty-five minutes away, at the "end of a freeway, in the middle of nowhere.

Sunday worked as good. I managed to land my ticket to PIR for the NASCAR race. Damn if I want to do anymore walking though. There were trams from the parking lot, but they dropped us at turn 2. Our seats were turn 4, halfway around the track. So we had time, we moseyed, got some free stuff, and finally made our seats. I managed to stay there for an hour pre-race and 30 laps into it. Then I was done. My forehead was burnt, I was feeling a bit sick from too much sun, and I was crowded as hell in the seat. So I ended up doing the walk-about checking things out, looking for souvenirs. About halfway back to the trams, one of the golf carts were nice enough to see me and offer a ride which I took. By then my back was killing me and I was tired of hobbling about on the cane. I rode the trams for the last hour of the race, talking to people. I had more fun doing that than sitting watching the race. Amazing how far some will drive for a race.

By the time I got home, I was worn out. When I woke Monday morning, there was no way in hell I was going anywhere. I ached in places the gym hadn't found yet. I was sick. I ended up sleeping most of the day away. Today I feel a bit better, but still am sore from the walking, and not in the mood to eat anything, though I know I need too. I didn't have anything yesterday at all.

Well, tonight is Texas Hold'em at the pub, so I will be there tonight. Since I didn't work out last night, I am going to have to cram classes again this week. This class thing is really getting to be a pain in the ass. I f I got gym membership, I could do all this on my own time, and STILL lose weight. Hell, I don't know.

The Wife is leaving Friday for Nebraska for a friend's wedding. Luckily she is taking the baby, so I will only have to deal with the older kids. I see suppers out, and maybe a Saturday at Castle N Coasters ( a putt-putt golf place with rides). Or maybe we will go watch a couple movies. I will have to see what is going on this week.

Glad you all could make it here and stuff your brains with my drivel. See ya next time when I talk about the rainbow colored poop I had not too long ago.... NOT!

PeacE

SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!!!

This is the big race weekend here in the Valley. PIR is hosting the NASCAR race and yours truly is doing his damnedest to get a fricking ticket to go. Last weekend, my favorite bartender said she was going to have extra tickets and offered me one, but as of yesterday, they had not come through. So I am hoping to hear later today. If it falls through, I guess I won't be going to the race, but oh well. I haven't been to a race in over 13 years anyways.

Meanwhile, today is Friday, and I hope to get out of the office a bit earlier than normal. My desk has been slow, and I don't see why I shouldn't leave early. I am not hourly or salaried after all. I wonder what the chances are of that happening...

I finished my gym requirements for the week. With the weekend as busy as it is, I am thinking I may need to get in late Saturday for a half hour workout or something. I know at the race I would be drinking some brews, and possibly tonight. Monday is my weigh-in for the week. I don;t want to be over a lot. Some is okay, as I am starting to notice some muscle mass gain in my arms. Hopefully I will have lost some more in the waist as well.

Saturday we are attending the State Marching Band competition being held in Mesa (across the Valley from me) for my daughter. The band is to perform around noon, so it is going to be some beautiful weather. High of about 80 they are saying. I wonder how crowded it will be. I totally dislike large crowds - shit, I didn't even think about crowd at the race. You know that will be huge. ::sigh::

Oh well. It seems if you want to enjoy something anymore you have to give something up to do it. Y'all have a good one, and hope to see ya back here Monday for another boring installment. Maybe I will have some boobie pics from the race... now there's an idea!

PeacE

Halfway through - feels like a Monday though

Hard to believe today is Wednesday. I woke up this morning feeling like it is Monday, and hating it all day. Had a 4 hour seminar to attend, that I learned nothing new from, and the boss that went with, agrees. Waste of time. Free luch though.

I went out last night for my regular Tueday poker and took 2nd place. Again. Which means I get 2 free steeak dinners at the pub when they have them. I usually do them on Sunday mornings after softball, whilst I am watching the Race or one of the football games. Nothing like a 14 oz ribeye with scrambled eggs and toast!

Tonight I have a meeting with the nutritionist at the gym. Why I have to meet withthem I have no clue. Not like I eat well enough or anything.... Then I had to rearranbge my schedule and stay until 8 for a class. All so I can go to the Daughter's state competition on Saturday.

Okay, I am out for the day. I have a couple things to finish then I am headed to the gym for hours...

PeacE

And the music plays a celebratory tune

My daughter had a band invitational last night. I didn't get to attend since I have to do these work out classes, and their schedule is not the best for me between work and home. No awards were given, but she said they received a standing ovation. I hope that is a good precursor to this weekend, as Saturday, they attend the State Competition. The Wife laid it on thick this morning that I should be there, but that would mean rescheduling my Saturday class to a Wednesday night at 9pm. Who the hell wants to work out that late?

Speaking of working out ... I did the weight and measure last night. So, after one week, which consisted of three classes, I have a total weight-loss of 0 pounds. No loss, no gain. I weighed in at the same. But, I did lose 1 1/2 inches off the waist, which means I am building muscle and burning the fat. And last nights weight class wasn't as bad as last week, though I am still a bit sore this morning.

I need a vacation soon. Work is getting slow, and they hired another processor, when there isn't enough work for me. I don't understand that one. But there is the seminar we are attending tomorrow that if the bosses decide to go that route, could mean a lot more business. I don't know. I just know I need a weekend out of here to someplace - but that too would mess up my workout schedule. ::sigh:: I can't win for anything.

Alright, it is early and there are things I need to do. I may be back later with some jokes.

PeacE

Monday, or the beginning of Hell Week #2

What a way to start this week with record high temps for Phoenix. Today's estimated high is 94, which breaks the previous record of 92 from back in 1980. Tomorrow is guesstimated to be the same, another record breaker day. I am glad we still have the AC on at the office.

I finished the third class finally on Saturday, and realize that this 8 weeks is going to be hell. Well, at least the first few weeks, as the body gets adjusted. This was cardio workout, and I had to stop every now and then to get the heart to slow down, and catch my breath. But afterwards, I did feel better. Tonight I return to the weights and will probably be sore again tomorrow. I need to figure out my schedule and the classes as they now changed the times of them throughout the week for this month.

I think after just one week I can see a bit of difference from this program. I feel like I tend to have a bit more energy than before. My pants don't feel near as tight. I have been sleeping a bit better. Tonight I will be weighed and measured, so I will see if there has been a difference.

I will be adding to my knowledge this week. The bosses and I are attending an FHA seminar about the benefits and how to start doing FHA loans. This should double/triple our business once we get the tricks of doing them down. I am a little happy about that, but think about the extra steps we will need to do to complete one of those types of loans. A lot of dotting I's and crossing T's.

Welp, I have a couple calls to make, and it is lunchtime. Funny how my clocks didn't need to be reset - HA HA!! Y'all have a good one, and we'll see ya later.

PeacE

I finally think I am beginning to see a difference

I got up carefully this morning, making sure I didn't strain any sore part of me. Yes, I did my second class last night. It was actually really good - having to do stretches like in Yoga and Tai-Chi. I think I had a harder workout with that class than I did the weights. I sure sweated more.
Anyways, I am dressing this morning. fastened my pants, bent over to fasten my sandals (casual day at work), stood back up and my shorts fell. I kinda stood there a moment and pulled them back up, realizing I sorta had to push the belly out to hold them in place. I checked the belt, and it is on the last notch, with room for more. Damn that makes me feel good!!

I'll go in tomorrow for the third class of the week, and have myself weighed and measured again to see how I am doing. I also need to get out today and get some blood drawn for the Dr. I keep forgetting to do that.

Only an hour and a half into the work day and I am bored. Not a good sign. Especially for a Friday.

Alrighty, I am outta here for a bit. Y'all have a good one and have a good weekend.

PeacE

Learning things in fun ways

Last night was an eye-opening event for my kids. Especially the 5 year old. The two older ones knew what was coming, and tried to squirm out of it. Everyone was home after a night out collecting goodies, so of course it was the best time to teach the kids a little about real life. That’s right, using candy. And what would be the topic of education?

Taxation.

It’s simple and easy to show kids how it works. The bag is your paycheck, or to make it easier, it represents the whole amount of money you earned working over the year. Now, Uncle Sam takes a portion for Federal, and then the State takes a bit for them. Oh yeah, and don’t forget the Medicare that comes out. The daughter tried claiming she didn’t have as much candy as she had helped do some other things rather than collecting candy. She really tried for an exemption, but I spotted a couple tootsie rolls and still made her pay up. The oldest son, he tried to grease my palms with some tootsie rolls, plus a couple candy bars, but I wasn’t let him get off that easy! The 5 year old, he kind of sat there not really understanding. I felt sorry for him. Actually, I gave all their candy back. But it was fun watching them argue with me about it.

The older son, he actually was asking questions about what happens to the taxes he pays, and I told him we would have to save that for another day.

The Reverend Mother was good to me. She sent home a ziplock with some candy bars and a bag of flavored tootsie rolls. And here I am trying to lose weight. ::sigh::

Coming up in December I will be able to get out and play some golf again. The pub is having another tournament that the step dad and I will be attending. It is only a 9 hole round, but fun to get out, and the dinner afterwards is good too.

Tonight is class #2 for the exercise program. I am not sore as bad as the past couple days. Tonight’s is stretching doing Yoga and Tai-Chi exercises – an hour long. Then I think I may go in tomorrow night to ride the bikes, then Saturday for the third class. Monday will start the cycle over again…UG! Not looking forward to that night again. At least the PT said my shoulder issue was mainly tightened muscles, and same with the back and hip. After a couple weeks I am to be re-evaluated if I feel pain there still. Hopefully, some weight loss will have happened and I won’t be hurting as bad.

Okay, I need to go do some work. I am caught up, but was just handed some stuff I have to go searching through funded files for paperwork corporate needs. Y’all be nice and clean up after yourselves.

PeacE

Another Holiday is here

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I am not one much for Holidays. Too much commercialism in most of them anymore. Halloween isn't as bad as Christmas, but I do think stores go overboard with all the costumes. The candy I never minded - until this year. Wrong time to start the gym thing I got to thinking last night. I got candy for Halloween, and Thanksgiving coming soon, followed by Christmas and New Years. What a time to start worrying and doing something about the weight...

My sore spots, have concentrated strength today. I actually feel like I hurt more today than yesterday. So this post will be fairly short.

I am taking the kids tonight to church for the "Harvest Festival". I was going to head down to the bar, but I ache too much, and I am tired already. I was going to go in just my pants and say "I just came in my pants". Well, I thought it was funny.

Do something good today - take your kids out, or something. See ya tomorrow maybe.

PeacE

I don't think I have ever felt like this ...

I grew up in central Indiana, in a small town called Kirklin (about 40 miles north of Indianapolis). Real small farm community, where everyone knew each other; the three churches were Nazarene, Christain and Baptist; 1 small general store; a Rexall corner (with the soda/ice cream fountain); and a few small odds & ends places. Anyways, as grade school kids are, we played hard, even worked hard during certain months of the year, as many were farmboys.

Things considered physically hard growing older were things like de-tasseling corn, marching band, and football (the one season I played). After HS I even hiked the Grand Canyon. AND STILL NEVER FELT AS SORE AFTER THOSE EVENTS AS I DO TODAY.

I started the gym last night - one of the three classes I need to do each week called BodyPump. Oh man. I have 7 more of these to go - just for the 8 week course.... How will I make it? We are talking a really good workout for an hour and they WORK YOU OUT! I had to wait 15 minutes afterwards just to be able to get to the car and work the steering wheel. I am soooooo outta shape (except round is a shape..?)

I am doing my best not to move too much today. Typing even hurts a bit. Tomorrow is my next class, and it is just stretching. I know I am going to hurt after that one as well. I have an appointment with the PT today. Wonder how that will go.

PeacE

I'm gonna miss me!!!

One of the few comics I remember from years ago is of Garfield the cat. It is during one of the phases that Jon, his owner, and Liz, his vet, seek to put him on a diet. The final frame int he strip shows Garfield hugging himself saying "I'm going to miss me!"

That's sort of how I feel today. After spending several years building up to pony keg belly I now have, I am going to watch it slowly disappear, and actually be happy about it. Friday night I went to the meeting at the gym for the 8 week exercise program. They did some measurements of the thigh (27"), the waist (57 1/2"), and BP (I missed what that one was, but I know it was pretty high), had before photos taken (front and side profiles), then the inevitable weight. I'm feeling pretty good. I had weighed myself on the regular Kmart scale a couple months ago, and was at 275. Hell, not even close. They weighed me in at 325, and maybe 5 pounds of that was the clothes and stuff I had in my pockets. 325 - No way do I look that heavy, or so I thought. Great - definitely a prime candidate for this program now, so I paid the refundable $50, provided my info, and scheduled an appointment with the Dr. that is running the study.

Saturday morning I met with the Dr. I knew hi pretty well, as he is friends with my bosses, and I had personally done his refinance at least 3 times over the years. Everything checked out fairly well - except I need to visit the PT for my left hip and right scapula. They don't have equal range of motion as the other side, and will need some extra exercising. But he did clear me to start the program. Which is tonight.

Three classes an hour long each. I am required to do just those 3 classes each week. One dealing with weights, one with stretching yoga/tai-chi stuff, and the last one using resistance balls, etc.
After the first 2 weeks, the PT will okay me to have free reign at the gym outside of the classes, so I will be spending several days a week there. The Dr said a good goal for 8 weeks is about 35 pounds. And lots of muscle mass. I'm going to be built like I was in HS within the year. I am stoked.

So now that I have bored you with that, wanna go for a run?

PeacE

It finally has arrived

Sorry I have been absent a day or so there. I was spending time at home in bed, coming down with something similar to the flu, but not quite. I am still not feeling up to par, but I left half day at work yesterday, and came in half day late today trying to shake the sickness. I know the company can't do much without me. I am theone in control of where the files are etc.

Moving day has been announced. Everyone else is moving whatever they have left to move today. I don't get to do any of mine until tomorrow. My copiers are leaving at 9am, then the phones and servers are going down at noon. The I have to move my entire office over. Nothing allowed to go over early. Fucking sucks.

So, this afternoon I guess I am sitting around not doing much, because there isn't much for me to do at the moment.

Hey Freddie, I did do a double check. You were 10,001 according to Sitemeter details. Sorry, I wish it had been you, or anyone else I know.

I am outta here. Don't be surprised if I am not back for a few days while we do the work transistion.

PeacE

Mission Accomplished - 10K has been reached!

WooHoo! Okay, now I am just calming down from such a landmark event (for little ol' me anyways). The only bad part is I have no clue as to who it was. If I could figure out how to copy the details on the screen and put them here I would, but I can't figure it out. Here's the basics:

Brighton, East Sussex, UK
ISP = Mistral Internet
They stayed for 0 minutes
referred over here by Google, using the search term "pictures of men holding ladies boobies"

So much for that little game. And here I was still thinking about awarding a prize, but I guess that won't be necessary now. I do owe a few shout-outs ....

To GuyK over at Charming, Just Charming - this gent threw up a link for me and encouraged many to show up, and they did! Over half the needed final clicks to get to the goal came from his site. Hats off to you GuyK!

Many others of you helped me along as well, and since you commented, I'll throw you some linky-love as well.

Freddie over at Warts 'n All - check her place out. She writes some damn good stuff, even when she is really pissed off about something. I like her stories about growing up.

AWTM has her place at ArmyWifeToddlerMom, and I love her writing about her two young'uns, and good luck to her on them there CEU's or what not they is called.

Mushy is a new one to me, but he gave a good try at being the lucky winner. I stopped over there for a bit this morning, and I think this one will be joining my reads. I was just now trying to get the link to work, but my damn server is prolly screwing me out of it for the time being.

VW Bug over at One Happy Dog Speaks has got a nice site as well. Couple of kids that sure are cute, and looked like they enjoyed Disneyworld pretty much.

Wm H at Amazing Facts - thanks for dropping by! I enjoy my visits to your place on a daily basis pretty much.

I think I pretty much got everyone that commented - and for those of you that didn't, well shame on you! But I'll still throw ya one of my big comfy hugs iffen ya want one!

Okay, now we need to set a new goal to meet. More pics? More content? A better life? Hmmm, I dunno. Maybe more of all that stuff will happen. Stick around, find out!

Thanks again to all you readers!

PeacE

You guys are just too fucking awesome!

Another reason why you just HAVE to love bloggers, and you readers have shown it again and again! Here I send out a plea for the 10K hit and JUST DAMN! I get over twice the normal hits of a regular day. You people are just too damn good for me to hang out with!!!

Obviously, I woke today in a better frame of mind. Besides wanting to see if we were over the mark was the best thing. As of right now, we are 10 short. But I know that will change very quickly.

Second best thing is I am getting rid of the Wife for a weekend here soon. not that often do I get rid of her, but rather she gets rid of me. She is flying back to somewhere near Omaha for a friend's wedding, and I get to stay home with the older three kids. She is taking the baby. Wait a sec. That means I have the kids for 3 days. I see lots of pizza, eating out, movies and maybe some putt put golf in the near future. This could be good - Daddy time with the older kids.

Alright, I am anxious. I gotta get back to some work, but every few minutes I keep pulling up the counter. You guys RAWK!

PeacE

Approaching the big 10K mark

It seems like it has taken quite a bit of time, but now it is rapidly approaching. As of this post, I am only 102 hits away from that big first 5 digit number of 10, 000. That is starting from 10/28/06 when I first put the counter back on my LiveJournal account, before moving here.

Thanks to the you readers, visitors, friends, family, and those that Google things like "granny amputee porno sex, boobies, and many other phrases I shouldn't use in public.

I don't know if I will give anything away to the person that hits 10K, but I might. I just hope they comment when they hit it, so I will know who it is. That in itself might determine a prize.

So good luck to the person that does it, and many thanks again for getting me to that mark. I feel so special.

PeacE

Back to the Real World

I realized this morning at the early hour of 6am that I have to come back to reality. The daughter has early morning band practices again after a week off. I was so enjoying not having to get up as early to take her. Of course, then I have to return to the office as well. Definitely a sign that the weekend is over. A weekend I was thoroughly enjoying.

Friday night I was to attend the class to start my weight-loss program. I had shown up a good hour early (no since driving part way across town in rush hour, since I was already close to the place). At the desk I casually informed them I was there for the meeting at 6 and then I was told it had been canceled due to only 2 people signing up. My boss had not informed me of that requirement. So now I am signed in for this Friday at 6pm.

Saturday I traded off some books with a friend of mine, and spent the afternoon playing video golf. The daughter had band competition that evening out at ASU and they placed a Superior rating which won their division. Sunday, probably against their better judgment, the team allowed me again to keep score. This time we one by a run, and then headed to the team bar for drinks and to watch the Redskins-Cardinals game. Many Cards fans were in the house, since the game was in Washington. My buds and I tried to offset the numbers, but there were too many of them. I was hanging my head at the end when they were in long field goal range, and the Cards sent out Neil Rackers to kick. They only needed a field goal to win, and he missed the 55 yd shot, so my Redskins won by 2 points. What a feeling! Too bad the NY Giants, and Dallas both won their games as well. At least Philly lost.

So overall, it was a good weekend. Now I am back in the office (which is even emptier) trying to keep busy, wondering when I am moving my stuff over, and when will the new place be ready to move into. Half my LO's are out of the office since most of their stuff is moved, or they are here trying to do some work, and then leave early for the day. Sometimes shit ain't fair I guess.

Alright, I got a few phone calls to make to get some stuff done. Hope your weekend was good. See ya tomorrow!

PeacE

What do you expect from me today?

More drivel? Maybe an exciting post about something that happened? Possibly another short story? Or how about some jokes or pictures? This is going to be like you opening a new book not knowing what it is going to be like, well, for those of you that read that is. And I'll let you decide how to describe it. I for one, am quite sure it is just some meanderings.

The Daughter got her learner's permit yesterday. The Wife took half day and took her down to the MVD, and within 30 minutes she had it in hand. Tests have changed from when I took mine 20 years ago. We had the paper test with 20 questions on it. You could only miss 4 or you failed. Daughter was in bed when I got home, so I didn't find out how many she missed, but the Wife told me it is all on a computer now. It asks a question, you select your answer, and it tells you if you are correct or not, then explains the correct answer if you get it wrong. I am still curious how many she missed. OR how many were asked for that matter.

The office is getting emptier. It now echoes when we talk in the main area. There was a pickup today from some place similar to Goodwill for businesses. That emptied out a lot that we were not taking, plus gives the bosses a tax credit. I still have no idea when I am to pack up. Maybe I will luck out and they will do it this weekend, and then I just show up at the new office on Monday - if I knew where it is. I know vaguely where it is located, but not the address or exact instructions how to get there. That day will be interesting.

Tonight is my meeting for the dietary program. I kinda feel like it is going to those counseling classes they make you do for DUI, only you are probably going to share more because it is about your health habits, weight, etc. Another reason why I don't care to see my PCP that often. But I got to do this, if not for me, for the kids. The things I do for them....

I have been put in charge of the Beer Schedule for our softball team for the season. I suppose I should start working on that this weekend. We still have several weeks (we play through February I think) and I have to be sure everyone knows when it is their turn. I just got to figure out who usually is drinking, and who doesn't. Shouldn't have to buy if you never drink it. Maybe if I do this well, they will let me continue being score keeper, even after last week's error. What do ya say guys?

Okay, I think I am through giving you content to waste part of your workday on. Lord knows I have wasted enough of today going through my bloglist. You all have a good weekend.

PeacE

I swear it is a desert!

Arizona has its desert areas all around the state. Not so much like the Sahara, or Gobi, but arid wasteland where only scrubby bushes and cacti can grow. Hot during the day, cool at night; little rainfall except when it comes down, it floods away. But most of all, it is bleak and deserted. Kind of like looking out my office door.

Yet more of the office has disappeared today. LO's are in make-shift desks until our actual move date, which the owners won't clarify. They feel it will make production go awry due to everyone concentrating on when we move, instead of work until we move. I guess it sort of makes since, if you think about it. Myself, I am the only one left that has not packed anything up, or moved anything. In fact, today I was told I am to be the last one moved. That way I can still close loans whilst everyone is helping move, or whatever. I figure with tomorrow being Friday, half the staff probably won't show up - and the ones that do, will leave by 2:30 or 3pm. Bastids!

Tomorrow night is my meeting for this dietary/exercise regime I am going to start. For some reason I am a bit nervous. I mean, I have to give up drinking to do this. Smoking too, but I don't smoke near as much as I used too. That won't be too hard. My buddy Jan was telling me the other night that I am just going to kill myself to just stop drinking. Maybe that's why I am nervous - NOT!!

The daughter has finally asked us to get her into the MVD to get her permit. I don't know if we will be able to do it this week. Today she needs to finish up a report that was assigned over her fall break. Tomorrow she has band practice in the afternoon, followed by a home game she has to perform at. Doesn't make sense to schedule a game when school is out .... Then Saturday, the band has competition at ASU Band Day. That puts it back into the weekdays, when she is in school and we are at work. Maybe next weekend she can get it ...

I think I will go out and play some Texas Hold'em tonight. The company that comes to my regular pub on Tuesdays has one tonight at a place called the Steelhorse Saloon. Yeah, yer right. It's a "biker bar" so to speak. Ought to be interesting. When I played on a pool league a few years back, this bar had like 3 or 4 teams in, and it was fun, so I am sure this will be as well.


Welp, reckon I oughtta move on along now. Y'all come on back now sometime, ya hear?

PeacE

Where the hell is everyone?

It's been quiet today in the office. I know because I am here. But where everyone else is I have no flipping clue. I know earlier several people were helping the bosses load up their trucks with miscellaneous computers, supplies, etc to take over to our new office. Then it got quiet. I walked around and there are only three people here including me. Needless to say, I have taken opportunity of the moment and slacked off at my desk ... not that I was busy anyways.

Well, I feel pretty talked out now. You can tell how exciting life is around me at the present. I need to get out more, or something. In the meantime, here is some more humor for your enjoyment. Maybe I will back with content later.

"Hello, Boss Rod? This is Philemon, the gardener at your country estate. I have been trying for to speak with you for many days."

"Ah yes, Philemon. What can I do for you? Is there a problem?"

"Um, I am just calling to advise you, Mister Rod, that your parrot died."

"My parrot? Dead? The one that won the National competition?"

"Yes Boss, that's is the one."

"Damn! That's a pity! I spent a small fortune on that bird. What did he die from?"

"From eating rotten meat, Mister Rod"

"Rotten meat? Who in this world fed him rotten meat?"

"Nobody, Boss. He ate the meat of the dead horse."

"Dead horse? What dead horse?"

"The thoroughbred, Mister Rod."

"My prize thoroughbred is dead?"

"Yes Boss Rod, he died from all that work pulling the water cart."
"Are you insane? What water cart?"

"The one we used to put out the fire, Boss"

"Good Lord! What fire are you talking about, man?"

"The one at your house, Boss! A candle fell and the curtains caught on fire." "What the!!?? Are you saying that my house is destroyed because of a candle??!!”

"Yes Boss Rod."

"But there's electricity at the house!!! What was the candle for?"

"For the funeral, Mister Rod."

"WHAT BLOODY FUNERAL?"

"Of your madam wife, Boss Rod... She showed up one night without telling anyone she was coming and I thought she was a robber, so I hit her with Boss's new Tiger Woods Limited Edition Nike Driver."

SILENCE...
LONG SILENCE...
FINALLY...

"Philemon, if you broke that driver, you're in deep, deep shit!"

PeacE

How to get men to wash their hands