New Year's Eve

Well, I been sitting here staring at the screen for like 5 minutes now and nothing comes to mind to share today. I know last night, whilst I was in my cups, I had a great topic to share. However, this morning, I am unable to recall such points of wisdom.

Enjoy yourselves this evening. See ya next year.

PeacE

Prepping for the End

It's Thursday. This week's end brings on the end of the winter holidays. At least in my book. New Year's Eve is tomorrow night, and I cancelled plans to attend the Men's Only poker night party I had been invited to. I decided it was better to spend the evening with my family, probably at home, watching a couple movies or playing games. I don't know exactly what we will end up doing. Sis invited us to their place, but I don't like to stay the night, and don't really want to drive home after midnight, just to drive back the next day for lunch... not to mention the possible drunkards on the road.

Looking forward to hearing from the auto shop today saying the daughter's car is done. Wish they would call this morning before I get too wrapped up in doing something. Be my luck they won't until I am busy.

Checked on my friend's cat this morning. Even after a week of being alone, she is not coming out of hiding when I am there. I know she isn't dead as the food is disappearing. But I cannot locate her hiding spot(s).

Only to be in the 40's today. With more rain. I am a bit chilled this morning, so I am thinking about crawling back under the covers on the bed.

PeacE

Actually Getting Dressed Today

I am sure that post title gave many of you sickening mental pictures, especially if you have seen pics of me. But it is completely true. Arizona is a pretty warm state most of the year (warm being a nice term considering 6 months of the year it is sweltering). So, usually at home I run around in shorts, no shoes, no shirt. But today, a rain front is moving in for the next three days (supposedly) and temps have dropped down to pretty cool levels (maybe 30's at night) and I am a bit chilled. I put a shirt on, and am now debating putting on a pair of socks, too.

I remember reading, or hearing, somewhere that there are like 700 million (exaggerated figure but you'll understand) types/versions of the common cold. I feel as if I have 250 million of them. Seems I start to think I am finally shaking it, and a new symptom appears, or another one gets worse, or both. I am not feeling so energy-less, but just more congested sinuses, and a bit of chest. Bouts of sneezing come along from time to time. But it is irritating more than uncomfortable. I am doing whatever I can to "ease" the symptoms (so I can breath through my nose). It still sucks.

Hopefully the auto shop will call later today and say that the daughter's car is ready to be picked up. As of Monday they had said today or tomorrow. My luck it will be tomorrow.

Finally downloaded pics from the camera from Christmas and just before. Still need to load the software and do the new camcorder as well.

That's all I got today. Not much happening otherwise, until I can get rid of this damn cold.

PeacE

My Nose is Like New York City in Rush Hour

I don't know what is wrong with me. Feels like some of the worst allergies I have had, or some kind of damn cold. I know I had a cold a few weeks back, due to additional symptoms. And another just a couple days ago.... But this whole congested sinuses issue is driving me nuts! And I know it is not a sinus infection. Maybe I just need to get some stronger allergy medicene, like a shot. Sis says I should go to an allergist, but c'mon! I just finally went tot eh regular doctor, now another one? No, I don't think so. Bad enough I need to get into a hearing specialist soon.

Well, I didn't get out and do some running yesterday like I sort of wanted to do. I guess I should do it today, maybe. The daughter came back fro up north yesterday with some kind of irritation to her eye. Not sure is it is some form of pink-eye or just a scratch/irritation. Went and got her some Clear Eyes stuff to see if it helps any. I may need to run her to Urgent Care of something today if it is not better.

Daughter's car is not going to be ready until late tomorrow, or Thursday. Seems that they ended up replacing the whole door. I thought it would be just some cosmetic work, but evidently not. I don't care. I ain't paying for it.

Watched the new "The Karate Kid" yesterday. I was so disappointed. I had hoped there would be a little more in way of differences in this movie, but Hollywood let me down, again. I was so unhappy with Jackie Chan.

Well, I should get started into the day. Wife and kids will be getting up soon.

PeacE

Weather I Should, or Not

Ugh! I had to run over to a friend's house this morning. She is back in Ohio for the week of holidays, and I said I would check in on her cat. Yeah. that same cat that clawed the crap out of my hands back in November. Anyways, listening to the news talk radio on the way, and hearing about that blizzard hitting the East coast. Wowza! People stranded in vehicles all over. People without power. And so much more. I feel for them, but at the same time, am glad I am not there. I think the worst we are going to get is an expected storm cell to hit about Wednesday, and stay through the weekend. A bit odd for AZ, bit then, everyone is getting weird weather.

So yesterday I felt pretty good, besides awakening so early. Though, by mid-morning, I was done. Seems 5/6 of our household came down with a cold. We were feeling pretty miserable. This morning though, the kids seem fine. The Wife has lost her voice, and I am still abit congested. Hopefully it was just a small cold going through, and we will clear up by tomorrow.

Many people returning to work today. well, in places they can get out on the roads anyways. Hopefully, the auto shop will have the daughter's car ready... though probably not until tomorrow. I will be calling to find out today.

Thankfully now gifts to return for our family. I will be going out the early part of this week and looking at refrigerators. The Wife pointed out that yesterday ours was making a "weird" noise though it seemed to be operating fine. We are due for a new one anyways. The door on this one is pretty shot, and we were trying to get all the use from it we could. I got the tape measure out to measure today (ours fits into a little alcove) and may get out to the stores today... not sure if I want to yet. Still a bit tired and achey, plus don't know how store traffic may be today.

That's my plans for now. Maybe a movie this morning... I dunno.

PeacE

Rolling Into the Day After

It's nice and quiet at my house. First time I have noticed it over the past day or more. I know it is only because everyone is asleep still. It's another one of those mornings where I woke up too early, and couldn't get back to sleep. Though, how very nice to enjoy some quiet after the hustle and bustle of the whole Christmas season.

Our day was spent very well with family. We started off about 8:30am with the opening of gifts here at home. My kids each loved their "Big Santa Gift" and the Wife and I are just excited that each was accepted with the enthusiasm we hoped. Even Rusty, Cat Spawn of Satan, got a few things and was happy. Though, how easy to please a cat give him a decorated tree, and some treats - what could go wrong?

After that we headed over to Reverend Mother and Preacher Tom's place. We did our gift exchanges, and RM had a nice ham sandwich and sides layout for lunch. I decided today was the day to really splurge off my watching the weight. I had extras. Stuman and his family showed up there as well, and we did our family gifts. Then we were off to the In-Laws. The Wife had a brother's family in town as well, so again, gifts were exchanged. The kids were happy to see some cousins they had not seen in several weeks. Lastly we headed up to Sis' house for the final giving of gifts. We hung out there, snacking on more ham  and other goodies for a few hours before I returned to the domicile. The Wife and kids headed back to the In-Laws to do more visiting. I spent some time at home, unpacking some of the 4 yr old's stuff, and putting together a couple other toys.

Our Christmas was, once again, a very happy event. I made out with some clothes, beef jerky, music and movies.. not to mention some home made goodies as well. Though, I need to go easy on them from now on.

So now we have just under a week to the new year. I never do resolutions, as I can never stick to them. Though I do have some guidelines I want to try to follow, they are just what I have been doing the past couple of months either way. My family is getting together for New Year's Day lunch, where we have a traditional (for my family) ribs. We need to decide if we are going to join everyone or not. Yeah, tough decisions, huh? The Wife will want to go so she won't have to cook I am sure.

Okay, I need to go. I have camera pics to download, and I need to figure out how to do the video stuff from the new camcorder we got. Video editing... wonderful.

PeacE

Merry Christmas

Hope all of you are having a wonderful holiday!

PeacE

T'was the Night Before ...

... and the headache was going strong. Christmas Eve is here, and the boys are seemingly trying to do everything they can to make sure they are on Santa's naughty list. The sibling fighting and nit-picking is just wearing me a bit thin tonight.

I did go out and make one more purchase today. I am soooo glad I had finished all the shopping beforehand. The one store I was at, was crowded, and I was quick to anger with the impoliteness of people. Either way, I got in and got at pretty fast. The Wife and I decided on a present to ourselves, and I picked up a new Sony Handycam. I had looked at camcorders before, and settled for a particular Sony model, but they were out of stock on it. He went back to see what he did have left in stock, and came back with a more expensive Sony cam, that I ended up purchasing. It had more memory included, more features, and I would spend less overall than had I gone with another model, and had to purchase the extra memory, etc. They threw in the carrying case at 15% off too, because I was purchasing the camera at the same time. I was very happy with my deal. And now we have the camcorder to help with those memories to come.

Most of the presents are wrapped. I think the Wife still has a few more to do. Tomorrow will be a busy day for us running to 2 sets of grandparents, and then Sis' house at some point as well. Not sure what order we are doing all the running. Figure it out as we go I guess. It all starts first at our house though. Just need to figure what time we are getting up to do it.

If you are stopping by here, I wish you a Merry Christmas tomorrow!

PeacE

Crossing my Fingers and Hoping

So it's Thursday, and only basically, two more days to Christmas. I am hoping that after yesterday that there is absolutely no reason the Wife would send me back out to another store for anything. Yesterday, one store, crowds... reminded me why I hate shopping so much. Inconsiderate assholes.

SO the son and I caught the new Narnia flick. I enjoyed it better than the first two Narnia movies. Afterwards, we stopped at Best Buy for the last minute pick up stuff. I got a bit pissed. I had priced an item there online the night before, and checked store availability (which it said in stock). I know that can change from opening to the time I get there, and we didn't arrive til about 1'ish. I picked up the last 2 of this particular item. Notice I say item, in case it is for someone that reads here....

So we go to the checkout, to stand the typical 45 minutes in line as I seem to have to do EVERY time I am at Best Buy (which I hate, because they are a fucking pain in the ass store and I hate their whole policy about returns and I think they are owned by the French - though they probably really aren't, I just hate them). Just as we reach the front of the line, Customer Service says they can help whoever is next. So now I have to back track (excuse me, excuse me) through the line to go out and around to the customer service desk. By now, I am cranky, sweaty (it's exercise all that waiting in line) and just ready to leave. She rings me up. I look at the total, and say how much did you charge me?

The two items I got (same thing, just 2 of them) rang up at $20 each. I asked why online, they are advertised at $13.49, and why are you charging me $19.99? She started in some memorized spiel about how the online prices are "always" different than the actual store prices. I asked why? Another version of the same story. Again, I asked why. This time she says that this particular store does do price matching. I nodded okay. She then asked me if I would want to match a price on the items. I wanted to do a Bill Engvall here and hand her a sign....

Looking her straight in the eye, I said yes, I would want the price to be matched. Then, while looking me in the eye, she asked if I had a price from a competitor to match it to.

At this point, I just wanted to slap her. Reach right across that counter, and swing putting all of my tremendous bulk behind it, and just connect to her head.

I took a breath. I counted to 10. I quietly said, "I want you to match the price from the website of your employer, on these two items. There is no need for a competitor's advertisement to do this."

Okay, she says, and starts pushing the buttons. She had to call for some manager or something to ok the discount. We are still standing here... 5 minutes go by, she calls again, then says..."Sorry it's taking so long. Would you like me to go ahead and ring it up like normal?"

She needed it badly. I mean, maybe I just needed it badly. My arm was ready to just beat the shit out of her. I said "No. I will wait for the manager to give me the correct price on my purchase. I do not want you to ring it for 6 and a half higher - each! - just so I don't have to wait."

Another 5 minutes went by before someone came over and put in there seemingly 5 digit auth code and I was able to leave.

It just galls me, that companies do that shit. Advertise somewhere a price, then when you get there, it is higher and no one complains because it is the Christmas rush, or it was the last one on the shelf. I mean, I saved $13 just because I inquired about why the price is different than their website. AND, because I bought 2 of this item, I got a FREE $5 gift card. Which I will never use, as I have no plans to ever go back to that store again.

As I said in the past, things like this make me fucking hate Christmas.

PeacE

Movie Day!

My oldest son has a Church Youth Group function today to go see the new Narnia movie, and lunch afterwards. I am tagging along as I don't see the need to waste the gas doing the drop off/pick up thing. Besides, I want to see the movie too. So there is the midday plans. We are catching the 10:40 showing.

After all that, I will be swinging by Best Buy to pick up a couple last minute things the Wife asked me to get. I was lazy yesterday, and not only did I not do that running around, I did no wrapping. I suppose we should start some of that tonight so we aren't up til like 4am Christmas eve again. My Wife is notorious for that, because she is such a procrastinator.

Soooo, my day is planned out. What are your plans?

PeacE

Yawn! Stretch! Snap, Crackle, Pop!

I feel lazy this morning. Not the typical tired kind of lazy. The type of lazy that one just doesn't want to do anything productive. Maybe like sitting int he chair flipping through channels because nothing is on, but too lazy to get up and put a movie on. I think part of it has to do with my nasal condition.

A week or more ago, I thought I had cleared up from that cold (or whatever) I had. But this morning, it is back with a vengeance. I am starting to think maybe it wasn't entirely due to a cold, but maybe my allergies are starting to get worse. I have three different allergy medications (all OTC) that the main ingredient is different. But I can only take one per day, so I can't tell which one is actually working, or if that particular day, my allergies aren't as bad. February I am supposed to see the doctor again, and maybe I can see if he can give me maybe a prescription strength, general allergy type pill. All I know, is this is getting to really annoy me.

Originally my plans today had been to do some shopping with the daughter. I find out that she no longer needs to do any. But after talking to the Wife last night, I need to get out and find a couple last minute things that she had planned on, but was unable to find. I get the wonderful job of trying to find them. At least she was able to tell me what stores she had specifically looked for them at. That helps so I don't do double work. I'm thinking since I feel lazy today, I will put that off to tomorrow. The crowds for last minute shopping are going to be the same either way.

Then this afternoon, I will pick up the middle son from Grandma's and spend some time with him.

Anyone check out the lunar eclipse thingy last night? I know some people were making a big deal of it, being on the eve of the solstice and all. I didn't care, and read until about 1am then went to bed.

Okay, I am off to do what lazy people do.... probably watch a movie or something.

PeacE

A Later in the Day Post

It's late Monday night. Trying to not lose my temper at all the noise the two older boys are creating in the process of brushing their teeth (which was a much shorter time than what it should be). Daughter is secluded in MY bedroom, going through gifts for her brothers with the Wife. I have no frickin' clue when I will be able to get to bed to sleep. Sigh. And I am tired.

Daughter and I got her car dropped off. Then we are told the guy that does the estimating (for our particular claim) is not in today. So we are already into Day 1 of repair being wasted, and won't hear a time estimate until sometime tomorrow. Not happy about that. But daughter and I went to Denny's for brunch, and had a nice breakfast and discussion. We have plans for me to run her around a few stores tomorrow for some last minute stuff. I brought the older son home today for some time together, and tomorrow I will do the middle one.

Well, I feel like pressing my luck, and I think I am going to go knock on MY bedroom door, and ask if I can get into MY bathroom to get MY teeth brushed, and then get into MY bed.

Oh yeah, and my dentist cleaning appointment - I got good marks, they said they looked alot better than last time! Scheduled the cavity work and crown for Feb. (yee haw)

PeacE

Countdown to Christmas

Whew! This past past weekend sure felt like a long one! I can honestly say that I feel a bit tired and worn out from all the walking I have done! But, the good part is all the shopping I need to do is completely done... no more last minute ideas, or extras. Now I just got to wrap all that, and the stuff the Wife picked up. Did I mention I hate wrapping? The Wife had a good idea though. At one of them dollar stores, she picked up quite a few different sized bags to put some of the presents in, so less wrapping, and some of them we can re-use next year.

I took the boys out yesterday afternoon to get a couple final things for Mommy. Then we headed out to the buffet for dinner. The daughter's boyfriend had asked my Wife out to dinner last night. It was a surprise birthday dinner for her, and his mom, as their birthdays are only a couple days apart. So she had a nice dinner out, had good convo, and time with her daughter as well. I was in on it, which is why I took the boys out for a few hours.

Today, the daughter and I are taking her car into the body shop to get the work done from that asshole backing into her car. We are dropping it off, and hope to have it back tomorrow or the next day. This afternoon I have a cleaning at the dentist to do. Not looking forward to that. I have not been flossing and brushing as well as I should be. Oh well. Just going to be prepared to hear the condemnation they hand out. I know I am not the only one that gets it.

This week should be pretty slow. Wednesday I know the oldest son has a youth group event to go see the new Narnia movie. Thursday I am meeting a friend of a friend in person finally. We have been communicating back and forth on Facebook, and just now made plans to meet up for a couple drinks. That leads into Saturday, which will be a busy day since it is Christmas. Then the next week I will be opening toys, and hopefully not putting together too many. New Year's Eve a friend invited me over for a Guys Only party. I am looking forward to that, as long as the Wife doesn't mind that is.

PeacE

One of the Fastest

Serving as a Juror is probably one of the fastest jobs I have ever held. Yes, there were a couple that didn't even last as long as this one. And yes, I am done already. It was a simple case of 2 people, charged with third degree burglary, and possession of burglar tools. We felt it was pretty simple case, adn actually wondered why did it go as far as a court.... oh well.

So now I am back top my regular crap. I was actually almost enjoying going downtown and hanging out at the courthouse. Maybe I should do that when there is nothing else going on.

It's Thursday. Nothing exciting planned for today. Or tomorrow. Kids last day of school is today.

PeacE

The Next Couple of Days

With Juror Duty being the main thing going on for me, posting may be light the next day or two. Thursday is the estimated day I would be done, but who knows. And since I am not allowed to say anything about it, nothing to write about really.

Take this time to finish your shopping for Christmas, and other things.

PeacE

If There Is a God ....

... he is a trusting thing that is willing to let the fate of certain people depend on the juror verdict I decide at this hearing. Yes, I was chosen to be a juror, and obviously am not available to comment about what, who, etc etc. Which really doesn't matter, because anyone that needs to know, well, they will have to suffer. Like in Hell, where the person(s) pleading Not Guilty may end up.

Such responsibility. At least I am busy doing something different for the next 2 days. And lots of walking to do down there! My legs hurt from the amount of walking I had to do today! And I know I will be doing more tomorrow! Woo Hoo! Exercise.... though by Thursday, I will probably be regretting it.

The daughter made supper tonight. Stuffed Bell Peppers... and they are sure to be good. She made them once before and I loved them. Now they are cooling fresh from the oven right now in front of me. Obvious to understand why I must leave.

PeacE

Will I or Won't I?

I actually got something accomplished yesterday. I did make it out about 3pm to do some clothes shopping. I got a couple new pairs of pants (Dockers style) and a couple nice shirts. All prepped for what was coming today. At 5pm I called the number provided, held my juror info at hand, and listened to the recording. The first 9 groups they mentioned (including mine) are to call today at 11am to again listen to the recording, to see if we will be needed for afternoon service. So, there is a chance I won't have to go, and that increased by half a day so far. Now if I go, I will only have ti fight evening traffic, instead of including the morning rush with the whole day there.

And I though Life couldn't get better for me....

Now I sit and wait, wasting my time doing the games on Facebook, whilst I watch the clock on the corner of my screen for 11am to get here. Sigh. Yeah, exciting existence I know.

Found out this morning that the daughter will be here through tomorrow. Seems she is having finals, and her next isn't until Thursday.

My oldest son has made the District Band again this year. His first practice was last night. Also, I found out at his concert last week, he had been promoted in band. Seems his level of playing was higher than they expected, so they moved him from the Concert Band, to the Wind Ensemble. Most of the ensemble are 8th graders, a year ahead of my son. A good example would be like a JV player on the football team being promoted to Varsity because he is good. And he plays French Horn. I am so proud of him!

I got nothing else really today. 2 more hours til I call.

PeacE

Trying to Get Motivated For the Day

I woke early today. I mean, after all, 4:30am is not my usual wake-up time. No idea why I awoke so early, and being unable to fall back asleep, I went ahead and got up. Maybe because I was in bed and out by like 9:30'ish last night. I know I have been sleeping better since the CPAP machine, and maybe was body was just saying I got more than ample amounts of sleep last night. I definitely do not feel tired at this point.

Monday morning. I was reading through my friends' Facebook status messages this morning. Many of them are back in the Midwest area and are mentioning snow. Especially those up in Michigan. One friend commented that in her area, they have closed (at the time of her posting earlier this morning) 163 schools. She is up near the UP of MI. Several others commented on varying amounts of snow, but the main message was if there was some out there, be careful driving and being out in it.

I miss the snow. Growing up in central Indiana area, we always seemed to have snow by Christmas. Some years were heavier than others, but that I can remember, nothing like 1978. I remember walking to school in less than 12" (Lincoln Elementary was only like 6-7 small blocks from our house - though, it is completely gone now). I remember one of my winter chores being to shovel out the walk in front of the business my step mom ran. We lived in the apartment above it. Then my Dad would let me warm up, then tell me to go across the street and do Mr. Robinson's walk. He was a retired gentleman I am guessing in his late 70's. By 6th grade, I was as tall as he, though he was a bit stooped. During the summer, Dad could always find me over at Mr' Robinson's, shirking my chores, just to hear that guy tell stories of growing up. Sometimes he would pull out his guitar and play some tunes. Other days it was a harmonica, or a banjo. He was very talented, musically, and with story-telling. I am happy I got to meet him in my life, and somewhat regret not ever knowing what happened to him. After I moved away, I am sure he passed away at some point.

Well, I got a few hours to kill before I need to get up and out of the house. Today I ABSOLUTELY need to get go shopping for some clothes. Tomorrow is the scheduled date for my Jury Summons. Though I am supposed to call after regular business hours tonight, to get a recorded message that will state what group numbers are required to show. I am hoping mine is not mentioned, so I won't actually have to drive downtown. As it is, having to get up like 2 hours early, drive the 3-40 minutes to downtown, find the "free parking garage" they tell us jurors to use, wait for the free shuttle, and arrive at the jury summons room - all by 8am.... Not looking forward to that hassle. That's the main reason I hate these things. Either way, I need to get out and fins a nice pair of pants r two. And maybe a new shirt. I am hoping to get the next size or two down in pants. Crossing my fingers, at least one size. For some reason, the sizes differentiate between denim shorts, and say, slacks, or Dockers type pants. Example, if I were wearing a 36 waist in blue jeans, it may actually be a 38, or sometimes a 40, in slacks. I don't know if it is because the denim has a bit more give, or it is measured before wash shrinkage - I have no clue. Just seems to work that way. And I wish I WAS back down to like a 38 or 40....sigh. Getting there SLOWLY.

The Reverend Mother invited our three boys over last night, to do her "Annual Bake Time with Grandma". She loves getting each family's kids for a few hours at some point before Christmas to "help" her do some baking of cookies, and other treats. I believe she gives most of it away as gifts to co-workers, or people from church. Or maybe donates it all to some shelter - I never paid attention. I know the kids usually come home with a ziploc bag of samples they made. Usually for them, but my boys are nice they will offer some to Daddy... though, come to think of it, they didn't last night, and I would have to say no anyways. Damn diet. Besides, the Wife brought home Cold Stone Creamery ice cream for her and I last night.

Daughter will be in sometime tonight for an overnight, then back to school for the week. Saturday they start the break at college, and she will be home until about the 11th of January. During her break we will need to get her car in to the shop to fix that damn dent. I got a shop that says they can do it during that time, I need to call them later this week to see about scheduling a time for next week.

That's all I got for now. If you got snow, and gotta be out in it, be careful.

PeacE

Blow It Out Your Nose!

I am sick of this! I do not see anyway I could have this "cold" for two weeks now. I think there is something else... maybe some sort of allergy(s) going on worse than my usual bout. My nose has been running/clogged, and the sneezing! I hate sneezing. I go through several in a row, uncontrollable, then a brief 30 second respite that leaves you "feeling" a sneeze coming on, and then WHAM Three or four more. My OTC allergy meds (Benedryl equivalent) is not working. OTC med (Claritin type) not working. Nasal spray, cold meds - neither of them work. I don't know what to do to get relief short of a trip to the doc to be examined, and told there really probably nothing they can do. I don't know that, I just feel that way. Knowing me, I'll stick it out a couple more weeks before I finally just get pissed enough to go to the doc again.

I don't want it to come to that though. I don't want to see how my weight is doing. I feel like I have been slacking quite a bit on the watching what I eat. I know I need to do better at the amount. I know I need to get more exercise. Yes, I have been out walking, doing the final bits of Christmas shopping; but not every day, or in any way that could be called consistent. Sigh. And the holidays are coming up, and my favorite time of the year, because frankly, I love all the food and candy... in amounts that are not good for me.

The daughter is due home Monday for an overnight and an ortho appt Tuesday morning. Then back to Tucson until Saturday, which starts their break for the holidays. Tuesday is that damn Jury shit I got to do. I hope when I call Monday evening, my group will be excluded. Crossing fingers, saying prayers to any deity... burnt offerings on the corners - whatever it takes. True, my name gets tossed back in the "random name selection" progress, but that could reprieve me for several years.

Saturday. I know the kids and Wife will be doing stuff around the house to try to get it more ready for the holiday. I haven't decided, but I will prolly end up on WoW making that last level to 85 (be first in guild to do so). I had some salsa and chips yesterday, but I think the salsa was too old - I have the unwanted and undesirable digestive condition that makes my most important exercise of running to the bathroom before shitting my pants the only thing I will do much of today. Sigh. Not turning out to be a wonderful month so far...

Get on out of here. I know I am running for the door right after I hit enter.

PeacE

She Ain't No Spring Chicken

Happy Birthday to my Wife!

My Wife is now officially the same age as I am. That makes me glad. There are those three months of the year between our birthdays where she likes to tease me about being older than her. I usually don't mind, because she is not that far behind.

This morning we let her open one of her gifts before she left. A pair of Isotoner gloves for the "chilly" mornings here. Of course, she wasn't real surprised. She had mentioned to me a few days ago she wanted to go to the store to look for a pair of gloves, and I told her to wait until after her birthday. Another reason I gave that one to her this morning. I am not real original with gift ideas....except the ones I can't afford maybe... and even then I still am not great.

Today I hope to get some running around done. Have a couple store in mind to hit for those last gifts on my list to get. Not looking forward to it, but it will be good exercise again, and actually accomplishing something. Also gives me a chance to get out and get some clothes for that damn possible Jury Duty.

PeacE

A Day to Last in Infamy

Or something like that. December 7, 1941 Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese. I am better at remembering bits of history than I am the more life-threatening ones ... like the 8th being my Wife's birthday. It's amazing the way some people use little tricks to remember things. Today helps me for tomorrow. I figure, Pearl Harbor was hell that day. I know I would probably end up in Hell, or maybe just wish I was, if I forgot the Wife's birthday. Kind of goes hand in hand sort of, maybe.

No, the Wife isn't as bad as all that. She can't be to still be with me. But either way, it is truly how I remember her birthday.

Last night was not as fun as I had hoped, but still enjoyed it. World of Warcraft had a new expansion to the game released at midnight last night. I took the 2 older boys with me to pick up our 2 copies. We had gotten there about 10, and I paid for them. Didn't need to be back until just before 12, so we went back home. When we did arrive back, there was only about 40 people there, just standing around - no lines. By midnight, there was maybe 60-70. We were about 30 people back from the front. The first so many people in line received free posters (of the game expansion called "Cataclysm") so we were hoping to be close enough for one. Turns out we weren't. However, my faith that there are still nice people out in the world came true. One gentleman, in his mid-20's, comes out with the game in one hand, the poster in the other and hollered out, "This is the last poster! I don't want it! Who does?" Everyone pretty much shuffled their feet, and didn't say nothing. My younger son raised his hand and waved it. The gentleman comes over, and hands it to my son, whose eyes just get really big with surprise and excitement. I looked at the guy and told him thank you very much, and he said no problem. He was glad to give it away to someone that got excited over it. And then he left. Didn't ask for nothing for a limited edition poster... way cool. We went on to get our games and headed home, where the boys were sent to bed (it was late and they still have school today). I stayed up and loaded the new stuff for each account, and played until about 5:30am. A reason I am running a bit later today.

One week until Jury Duty. I still hate that I may have to go, let alone be picked for service. Guess I will find out the night before if I actually even have to show up. I hope not. It's a bitch to park downtown without walking several miles (I am exaggerating a bit, but not by much). I had to reschedule my cleaning at the dentist to another day because of this.... really upsets my schedule.

Okay, Wife's birthday presents wrapped up and hidden. Birthday wrapping paper hidden. No tale-tell signs of anything out of the ordinary. Using that phrase (tale-tell) reminds me so much of Edgar Allen Poe.....

Only have a couple last presents to pick up.. that I have to make special stops for. Now I just have to motivate myself, to do that tomorrow, because it isn't happening today.

PeacE

Back to a Normal Week

Well, I hope it is more of a normal week that is. I am still trying to shake the last bits of this damn cold. The worst of is is over (I hope) and now it is just the matter of getting my nasal congestion to stop... and the runny nose. Don't understand how both can occur simultaneously, but it manages to do so. This morning so far, it is not as bad as the previous week. I get the added bonus of extra exercise this morning, as I am "running" for the bathroom quite a bit as well. If the nose stops. something else has to take its place I guess.

This weekend leaves me feeling like quite a bit go accomplished. Saturday the oldest son and I went out and got some more Christmas shopping done. I believe I only need to pick up an item or two to complete what I consider my portion of gifts. Even got the Wife's birthday stuff as well. Now all I got to worry about is wrapping it all up.

Oldest son has his Christmas concert tonight at school. Then later on, like 10pm or so, the boys and I will head up to GameStop and get our World of Warcraft expansion packs as they are released tonight.

So has anyone else finished their holiday shopping already?

PeacE

Getting ready to Head Out

Yawn! It's Saturday morning, and I am awake, though the Wife is still abed. She deserves to sleep in a bit I do believe. Whenever she arises, and wakens up, we are going to sit down and figure out what Christmas presents we have gotten, who we still need to get, etc etc. Then, I have the feeling I will be headed out today to try to get some done, plus her birthday which is this week. The oldest son talked about maybe going out with me today as we "exercise" by walking the stores.

For any of you World of Warcraft fans out there, the new expansion "Cataclysm" comes out midnight Monday. I have two copies reserved at our local GameStop. The boys are excited, especially since I said I would take them at midnight to pick them up. They think is it is great, I am more, will they be grouchy and hard to get up for school in the morning?

Not much else planned for this weekend except some more shopping. I am still trying to shake this cold, but I feel better today, though am a bit clogged up yet. Popped another OTC cold "remedy" pill this morning with my regular aspirin, and waiting to see if it will make any difference.

So Jury Duty... some of you have had good experiences, some bad. I think this makes like the 6th time I have been summoned since I turned 18 and registered to vote. Only once have I actually sat in the jury box, though I was dismissed by the attorneys. Each time otherwise, I have spent the day sitting there until they release us, or be released by the judge as they would not need me as an extra. I am glad I have my Kindle now, so I will have reading material, without having to worry about needing extra books. I do need to get out shopping this week for some pants though.

Okay, I am out of here to get the day started. Have a good weekend!

PeacE

Sweet Dreams are Made of These

I was awakened early this morning. Not by the alarm clock. Not by the kids. Not even by the police because I passed out in a parking lot (that's a story for another time). No, this morning, an hour before my usual "wake up" time, I woke myself. With what I thought was screaming. Needless to say, I had a very disturbing dream. I couldn't go back to sleep, unlike most previous times this has happened (the startled awake from a dream - not the actual dream, which does differ from what I remember of previous ones). I am not going into details of what the dream was... so get over that already. Good news is, once the Wife was up (at the regular time mind you) I asked and discovered if I had yelled, she never noticed.

So I know she is sleeping better at nights now; since I started on that CPAP machine, I think we both have been getting better sleep, and more of it. Though the past few nights I have been waking up more during the night. I think it is because this damn cold I have, and the clogged nasal passages are preventing the machine from helping as well as it should. I was hoping to be over the final stages of it by this morning, but here I sit typing, wiping or blowing my nose seemingly every paragraph. We aren't counting sneezes - though I just jinxed myself by mentioning them.

The Wife and I are going to sit down tomorrow and attempt to make a list for those we would like to get gifts for, that we have not already. Then I suppose I will spend part of next week doing some more shopping. I know the week after that, I have that damn Jury Duty. Not happy about that. It should be if you register to vote you DON'T have to perform this service. That would encourage more people to register, let alone actually vote, in my opinion. I just hope I don't get picked so I can go home. Be my luck I'll actually have to be on a jury panel this time. I am soooo not looking forward to it. I need to get out and purchase some pants just for it as well. I have no non-denim type pants to wear - it has been near 11 years since I was required to wear anything more than denim for work.

Well, nothing else going on. I am headed over to Hoosierboy's to see if he has his Friday Five up. Come and play!

PeacE

The Cat Got My ...

I was a good friend yesterday. My friend lives a few miles west of me, and the place she had told me to take the cat was basically in-between our homes. I figured no big deal. Pick up the cat around 8am, have it there by 8:30 no problem. Except in my life, nothing goes right at times. I was running late by about 10-15 minutes. Still no major issue. I was to drop Sammy (the cat) off between 8:30 and 9. They just didn't open until 8:30.

I get to her house, see the pet carrier, the free spay voucher, and the other paper listing the places she could go. I see Sammy and call to her, and she comes up rubbing my ankles. Gently I eased her up into my arms, and moved to the carrier. As lowered to my knees and extended Sammy in my arms to the opening of the carrier, disaster struck. Suddenly, she wanted to have nothing to do with me or the carrier. In about 5 seconds flat, she was in the carrier with the door shut, mewing like mad, and I was on my knees thinking what he hell got her flipped out like that. Then I felt it. Sammy in her attempted effort of freeing herself from my hands prior to her entry to the carrier, got in some good claw licks. My left hand across the back of the knuckle of the first digit has a nice scratch about an inch long, bleeding. the palm side of my thumb, from just above the base, across the bend, and right into the meat of the print area, is the worse one. It's dripping red, and hurts like a .... well, you can imagine. The other hand got a couple minor scratches that weren't leaking rivers.

I stick the thumb in my mouth to keep from dripping blood on the carpet, and grab the "Locations" paper. I see an address highlighted, and think to myself that can't be right. I go thru all the other addresses. The one highlighted is where I am supposed to go. Instead of being 39th AVENUE, it was 39th STREET - meaning in Phoenix, about the difference of almost 10 miles, back past my house and to the East side of town. I call my friend, and she had misread the direction of the street and thought it was our side of town. I still had to take the cat, because she had it scheduled there, and the voucher had to be used before 12/1. I grab the stuff and the carrier and start on my way. Mind you, it is 8:30 by now, and still have morning rush hour going on. I got there at 9:10, luckily they didn't mind me being a few minutes over the limit they had gave. I called my friend and let her know the best way to get there after work.

Needless to say, my thumb hurts still this morning. Every time I bend it, put pressure on it, I get a nice little pain to remember Sammy by. Imagine trying to do things without your thumb, then I am happy that I am right handed.

Still fighting the cold, though I think I may have a winning edge happening. The worst of it is the nasal congestion, then runny nose, back to congestion seemingly changing every 30 secs, or a combination of both. My nose is tender from blowing it so much, and wiping the runnies from it. What's weird, is if I lay down for like 15-20 minutes, it clears up a bit - or if I walk around 5-10 minutes. But as soon as I sit - BOOM! It's back to being filed up. Driving me crazy.

We had a freeze warning yesterday in Phoenix until 9am. Seems we got a freak low pressure cell and the temps dropped into the 20's at night. But the good news it will warm back up to the 70's (daytime) by Friday again!

PeacE

Ugh! Wish It Would Stop!

I woke up feeling miserable this morning. And in the last 45 minutes, it feels like it has gotten worse. My eyes and nose are just leaking like crazy, even though my nose is stuffed up. Yeah, I won't get descriptive, but I can tell it is starting to turn into a sinus infection, too. Just popped some meds to help with "daytime".

That being said, my body is taking over most of my thoughts today, so I don't have much else to share except complaints. I'd head back to bed, except I need to run over to a friend's and pick up her cat. She has to get to work too early, and her cat is scheduled to be spayed today. I only have to drop it off when the vet opens in about an hour or so.

When I get back, I think I may crawl into bed again. Maybe nap a little. No use hooking up the CPAP with this clogged nose though.

PeacE

One Moment Please .....

I'm on hold. Yeah, on the phone. I am in the process of calling the insurance company of the guy that hit my daughter's car. The guy I spoke to last week, and have his direct extension, has a message that voices he will be back in the office by 9am MST (yes, it states the time zone). But here it is already 10:45am MST and he evidently isn't in.

I just finished the call. I was able to get off hold in about 7 minutes, so it wasn't bad. I will admit I did like the fact at the beginning of the hold period, they mentioned that "due to weather in certain areas" their hold time may be longer. Covering their asses before the really, big snows hit I guess. Anyways, I got the names/addresses of 5 more places to check with to see about getting it done during the break she has in December. If not, I can call back, have them send an adjuster, and go from there to anywhere. More hassle though.

The Wife is off work today. She had another personal day to use before tomorrow, or loses it. I finished watching "Robin Hood" today. It was good the second time too. Saw it in the theaters first. Also watched "How to Train a Dragon", which was a nice family animation. My boys really enjoyed it.

Not much else happening at the moment. I need to start making those calls.

PeacE

Sometimes, Life is Good

Yesterday morning started out pretty crappy. The whole thing about the daughter's car and all, just really brought her down, and me a bit too. Things worked out pretty good though, I think.

The guy that hit her, ended up getting a ticket for leaving the scene, and could have been charged with Hit and Run, but the daughter didn't want to press charges, just get the car fixed. within the hour of her calling me, I got a call from his insurance company. In short, they gave the contact info for a body shop that work with them, and Enterprise - both of whom straight bill the insurance so we need not worry about out of pocket. That was a relief. I called the body shop, and that's when we got some bad news. A few months ago, we had a hail storm across the valley, dropping some VERY large pieces of hail, and causing lots of hail damage to windows, vehicles, etc. Because this place works with insurances, they are booked until the 2nd week of January. About the time she would have to be back at school. We are planning to sit down this morning and figure out a good date for her to bring the car back up, and get it in, then try to schedule that date with the body shop.

Normally would be easy, but the snag that the car is still in her grandparents name, even though they gifted it to her. So the rental car then my MIL would have to go and sign, be the primary driver, etc. and just makes it a huge hassle. I am sure we can get it figured out, just a bit of a downer after everything was starting to look better about the resolving of the situation.

In the meantime, my cell phone took a crap yesterday. All the calls I made/received were full of static, and half the time the other party could not hear me. I ran into Verizon store (unfortunately close to the mall). Good News: my phone plan was ready for the upgrade. Better news: I was able to get a "touch" phone, with bluetooth, the ear piece, 2GB memory card (comes with USB attachment to load into computer), gel cover, and protective sheets for the glass - all for $20 more than it would have cost to just replace the phone with the compatible and pay the $50 deductible of the insurance. Yeah, I feel like I made out good! All because it was Black Friday and they were making deals.

It's Saturday. Nothing major planned. The older boys spent last night again at Sis' and will be coming home today.

PeacE

Too Tired to Do Anything

Whew! Yesterday was a nice, filled day! Spent Thanksgiving over at Sis' and left all 4 kids there for the night. I think this is the first time the Wife and I have had a night alone in... well, quite awhile. Only problem was that we were both pretty tired and just came home, did some computer stuff, then went to bed early. And slept. I even stayed in bed a bit longer than normal for me this morning. Unfortunately, the Wife had to work today.

So the kids are at Sis'. The daughter drove up there yesterday, and has plans to head up north to visit a cousin just for the day today. She had asked about taking my oldest son with her (he's 12), which we okayed, but he is unsure if he wants to go or not. I suppose I will find out when she let's me know she is taking off from there in a couple hours. Either way, she is planning on being home before 7 tonight.

Shit! I just got off the phone from my daughter. Seems some dick just side-swiped her car about 5 minutes ago. I guess the driver side back door now has the scrape on it, though it is still workable. Seems the neighbor came and rang the bell, had seen the whole thing happen and was able to give them a description of the car. So the BIL is out cruising the neighborhood in hopes of coming across them, and getting insurance info. Unfortunately, we are carrying only liability on the vehicle so would have to pay out of pocket otherwise for repairs. What a shitty start to today.

Just looked at the pic daughter sent on the phone. Isn't too bad, and looks like we maybe able to pop the dent out. The paint, that's the part I can't do. Update: turns out the neighbor across the street did it backing out of his drive. Police were able to get insurance info from the guy who kept trying to pin it all on my daughter. He was trying some stuff about, how she can't park on the street for more than 24 hours - which is BS. She cancelled her trip up north and is coming home so we can call his insurance and get all that taken care of.

Today is Day 5 of not smoking. I think I can quit counting them now. I have been out around smoker's and not felt any urges. I think I shall be ok about quitting, though I have not gone into a "stress test". I feel confident though.

Black Friday! Yeah, not going anywhere if I can avoid it. Sis will contact me about the boys being picked up by the Wife, or if she is bringing them home. Are you out shopping?

PeacE

Tossed to the Roadside

I feel kinda crappy. I went out drinking yesterday, and that always seems to leave me feeling this way the next morning. Especially if I stay out later than I intend, which I did. Again. But, overall it was a good thing.

Speaking of good things, I have officially moved into Day 3 of not smoking. Yep, that's right. I went out drinking last night and didn't smoke. Of course, telling my smoker friends that I was trying to quit helped a little. Except for those offering me a cigarette for a dollar. No, they really didn't. In fact, 2 friends at different times of the evening gave me a cigarette, which I placed on the bar in front of me; and if it got bad enough (the cravings) I would pick it up and just smell it, then force myself to put it back down. Probably would have worked better if I had someone light it up, take a drag, then put it out. That way, it would smell "smoked" and not be as flavorful of an aroma. Oh well.

So, Day 3 has started and I don't have the morning craving for one as soon as I wake up. That's good. Also, I feel like I am hacking up a lung. Which is probably also good. Getting all that bad crap outta my system from being a smoker. Well, I know it all ALL the bad crap, but it is some of it from the lung direction anyways. Another day or two of this and it will stop as well... unless I am just sick, and not realizing it. But the rest of me feels ok, so I think I am not sick.

I went out yesterday and bought me a new compilation of Don Williams songs on karaoke disc. That's part of the reason I ended up at the bar last night for karaoke. RM had wore me out yesterday morning, so it was nice to just sit on a stool and drink. My legs are sore this morning, but not near as bad as I thought they would be. I need to get out today at some point and go to the grocery. Need to get the stuff my family is to bring tomorrow. I am almost actually looking forward to getting out to the store, and I hate crowds. Weird. Side effect of the not smoking? You know, hallucinating things/feelings???

In case I don't get some sort of drivel up before tomorrow, I hope all you readers out there have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and hope you are spending it with some sort of family, or good friends!

PeacE

Agony of Da-Feet

I am a bit worn out. RM hooked up with me this morning and we did some shopping together. Got some more presents taken care of, and that makes me happy. Did quite a bit of walking around (for me). Then we called up my daughter and met for lunch that RM treated us. She wouldn't let me argue her out of paying for it, but I admit I didn't try real hard neither. After lunch, I had RM go ahead and drop me back off at home. Sitting down for lunch had let my legs get to feeling sore, and I didn't feel up to doing more walking. Besides, I had already talked myself into waiting til tomorrow to get the dinner stuff because I wanted the pie that much fresher. Yeah, I am not good at making excuses, they just come to me. Sometimes.

So it's barely after noon, and I am home. Not tired enough for a nap, and not feeling like sitting at the computer, or watching anything on TV (movies included). Reading.... going to the bar sounds good. But when I go, I tend to smoke, and right now I am on day 2 of not smoking. I don't know what I am going to do. Either way, I drive myself insane it seems. Short trip, I heard you say it.....

PeacE

Turning of the Seasons

Last night, the RM and PT came by to drop off a pizza. They had gone to Pizza Hut, and without realizing it, their order was messed up. I guess the waitress caught it, and brought them the correct order, and they got to keep the extra pizza for free. It sure was good! But the main I am pointing this out, is that when they came by, I met them outside... in just shorts. It was damn chilly out! PT mentioned it only hit in the 60's during the day (was a bit cloudy was all I noticed) and they were expecting 40's that night, possibly 30's in the outlying areas.

I had been seeing different friends here int he valley mention about the cooler weather, just in time for Thanksgiving, but never thought about winter actually arriving. As I sit here this morning in shorts and sweatshirt hoodie, it's here. Y'all get dressed treatment today!

The Daughter arrived home last night and the boys were happy to see her. Sometimes I am amazed that they miss their sister so much, then I think, heck, the oldest boy is only 12. When he's 15 or so, we'll see a change I am sure. She has her appointment this morning then return to Tucson until Wednesday evening. Then she will be up here for the remainder of the weekend.

Sis gave me my list of things I need to get out and pick up for Thanksgiving dinner. A little more than I usually have to bring, but that's all right. Feel like I am contributing more this way. Starting to really look forward to the turkey!

Alright, I gotta go make sure the Daughter is getting up. See y'all later! Wonder if the RM is gonna call me today for shopping. It's chilly enough I may not want to go....

PeacE

Morning With the Reverend Mother

I guess there are always nice bonuses that happen in life. I figured today was going to be a bit weird since I was up about and hour earlier than normal (for a weekday). Of course I figured correctly. Sometimes, those weird things are pretty decent though. Like this morning....

I was doing my regular morning things, like most people... emails, Facebook and games, etc. I made some comments here and there in FB and did my games. I was reading some updated replies to my comments, and had one from the RM inviting me over for coffee and a visit. No specific day or time was given, just a note that she had taken this week off work, and the invite. So I called her up, got dressed and headed on over. It was nice to sit and visit with RM, as I don't see her too often. Maybe that is what made it better. The coffee was a nice touch, too. Though I think I did most of the talking (bitching is probably more like it) it was still enjoyable. I taught RM how to do pictures/albums on FB, and she shared coffee and one of the Isagenix shakes with me. So that counts as a lunch pretty much.

Sis and her husband came by to return a crock pot RM had left with them last night. It was some chili she had made and taken up north tot he Chili Cook off the church up there had had. So a short visit was done with them as well. Weird us meeting at RM's house, instead of at Sis' like normal. Though, it'll be us and our families come Thursday. Anyway, RM And I made plans for her to give me a call for shopping sometime this week once she figures out what she wants to do. That'll help me get out and do some walking, and both of us have some time together. I know I don't spend as much time with my mother as I should.... and I only live maybe a couple miles from her.

So, like wow. Two posts in one day.... within hours of each other. It sure is nice to have something to write about for a change.... RM gets her own "post label" now....

PeacE

Early Start

I am up early today. I am hoping it is just because my body is well rested, and not a case of 'messed-up sleeping' again. I know I have been sleeping better at night with the CPAP machine, and having those weird wake up times have pretty much disappeared. I am hoping to not have them anymore.

The Daughter should be in town this evening. She has yet another ortho appointment Tuesday morning then will be headed back to school. Of course, she'll be back up on Wednesday for the holiday weekend. It is extra driving on her part, but she has classes Tuesday and Wednesday.

Saturday was nice. About ten people showed up at the little HS get together. One gal I hadn't seen in 20 years and I had a great time. We ended up at another place doing karaoke for the evening. Sunday morning I actually got up and made it to the ball field to watch some softball. Afterwards, we headed up to the pub for a drink. Subway for lunch and spent the afternoon at home.

RM made some chili over the weekend. She has quite a bit left over I guess, and has asked if we would like some. I do love my chili.... Looking forward to maybe later today getting some.

Doubt I may be doing much in the way of walking for the next day or two. I slipped and fell yesterday and whacked the outer side of that ankle bone. It is quite tender feeling when I put weight on that leg. I am pretty sure I didn't break anything, it just hurts.

Yep, life is pretty boring about now.

PeacE

Good Morning Blogworld

Saturday is here. I slept in til about 8:30 and then got up. It was nice to stay in bed an extra couple hours.

Nothing exciting this weekend so far. Have a get together tonight with some HS friends. Maybe have something more to post about that tomorrow.

Best reckon I ought to go get dressed about now. Shorts and Tshirt ain't gonna be the thing today.

PeacE

Day Two has Begun

Well, I made it through yesterday. Today I am sure will be a harder challenge in dealing with the cravings. I am prepared to repel the assault though. I am armed with Trident layers gum, and my 2 quarts of LemonBerry Fruit Punch. Hoping the taste of those will help take the edge off any possible cravings.

It's Friday! If you are one of the lucky ones, today you get paid. The rest of us just have to suffer. But we are headed into a weekend followed by a three day work week for many of you. That could be a precursor to good things. I was planning on heading out to Kmart today to try to get some more shopping done, but I think I am pretty much done. I have a few specific people to still get gifts for, but they are not the type I can roam around the store and just find something. I need to write Sis and Stuman to see what we are doing about families too. All the nieces and nephews are getting old enough now that it is getting expensive to shop for them all individually. Maybe we can go to just doing a family gift or something.

The RM says she is going to have some Weight Watcher Key Lime Pie for us at Thanksgiving. I hope they enjoy it. I am not crazy about Key Lime. But it is the whole thought behind it all. I am looking more forward to turkey than anything else. Well, and salad.

Tomorrow night I have a little get together with some people from High School. It'll be nice to catch up a little and reminisce about the old days....

PeacE

Evening Update: Well, fuck me. We start all over again tomorrow with the no smoking. I got really antsy this afternoon, and found a pack of smokes in the car. I forgot I bought 2 packs the other night when I was out. Good news is, I was able to keep it to a minimum how many I smoked. But that just means, more are left to tempt me through the weekend. Sigh. I am such a wuss.

Day One (Again...)

... grumble ...

Yesterday was the start of my 'no more smoking' campaign. 'Cold Turkey' is what best describes the plan. 'Iced' is how it ended.

I went out to the pub, and ended up spending the evening there with some acquaintances. And as you have probably figured out, yeah, I bought some smokes. Sooooo ..... today I start again. Mid-afternoon now, and no cravings have really appeared. Maybe the alcohol is subduing them. I don't know. Either way, it sucks to have to start all over. Maybe this time I will control myself better.... then again, who knows.

Thanksgiving is in one week. This is usually one of my favorite holidays because it generally is celebrated by gathering for a meal. There are always many dishes to try, and desserts to eat. The bigger your family gathering, the more food there is.... how can one NOT love it? This year it may not be my favorite holiday.... damn diet. Then again, I could always splurge and then work it off by doing something. Heh. Yeah right.

The Wife and I discussed plans for Turkey Day and she conceded the decision to me as to which side of the family we would be getting together with for dinner. I didn't feel like driving up north, so we are going to Sis' house. I called her earlier today to let her know. She and the Reverend Mother will get together and decide who is making what, and then let me know what we need to bring. Stuman and his family are going to his in-law's so they won't be there.

Just watched "Iron Man 2" on dvd. Wasn't bad ... glad I didn't waste the money to see it in the theater though.

Ok, I think I am off to play some Warcraft.

PeacE

Day One

In many SciFi films where the main plot is some virus outbreak, or mutations, or similar storyline, there is always a Day One. It's the start of the movie, usually, and gives us a base point to understand how things got to be the away they are throughout the rest of the film/book.

Today is my Day One for no cigarettes. Smoked the last one of my pack last night, and awoke this morning to start this off clean, cold-turkey. So far, things aren't bad, but then I have only been awake maybe a half hour. I give it a couple hours before some craving starts to kick in.

The Wife is home today. Seems she had 1 vacation day that needed to be used up prior to the end of this month. Today is the day she chose. Why a Wednesday, I have no clue, but it worked better into my plans. I was going to borrow the van today and take the youngest son out shopping with me. Figured get some exercise walking around the store, get some Christmas shopping done from him to his siblings, and maybe even get the Wife's birthday stuff taken care of. All within a couple hours. Yeah, gonna see if it can be done, though any start is better than nothing.

The Wife wants the three of us to go have a nice small lunch then somewhere prior to picking up the first of the boys from school (he has early dismissal today). I hope it is somewhere I can have a salad.

Still feeling a bit stiff from sleeping so still through the night. Not as bad as a couple days ago, but still there. Also around my nostrils from wearing the CPAP. Each fades a bit each day as I get used to it all. I am so loving the way I feel more energetic again. It's nice not to have to wake up, and then a couple hours later lay back down because you feel so tired.

That's it for now.

PeacE

Afternoon Update: Well, got some Christmas shopping done - least, some of it. Took the youngest with me and spent a good hour plus walking through Walmart. Once back home we decided to go out for lunch since the Wife was home. Had a nice endless salad bar lunch at Sizzler, and I was good kept it all to salad and some cottage cheese... though I probably ate too much overall, at least it was better for me than some stuff. Just felt I had to get my money's worth.

The cigarette withdrawals hit this morning as I left Walmart. Had to walk past a few people outside smoking, and the smell brought them on. I have been able to mentally dismiss the cravings so far. Now I got cravings for a drink as well. Trying to talk myself into heading to the bar just for the afternoon. Do some reading in my Kindle... have a few beers. I dunno. I am starting to cave.

PeacE

The Results Are In

Last Wednesday was my second doctor appointment, where we had gone over the regular blood test results, sleep study, etc. Friday I got the CPAP machine, though there were issues regarding the oxygen supply (as was coming from a separate supplier). Monday, we got the oxygen taken care of. I have an oxygen concentrator now hooked in line with the CPAP. I am at a low level (1 on whatever measurement scale they use) so it isn't too bad. In fact, I really don't notice any difference with it hooked up. I am under the impression my body is noticing changes, but the change is still large enough just using the CPAP, that consciously, I don't see it.

At my appointment, we also did another blood draw. This one was to check for the sugar percentages, etc. that are a better indicator for diabetes. Diabetes runs through both sides of my family, so I was expecting to probably see some sort of indication of it, though would not know if it was going to be in a range where medication would be required at this immediate time, or if we had some room for "lifestyle changes" to help make the difference.

Today I got the results from the doctor.

The normal Diabetic range is considered to be 6.5% or higher. The higher it is, obviously some sort of control, usually through mediation, is needed. I am at 6.4%, so am just barely under the range to say "I have diabetes." Doc says the good normal range should be under 6%. At this time, he feels that we have some room to maneuver since I am preferring to make changes in my lifestyle, rather than just do medication.

First is to lower my Triglycerides. Options are: 1) lose weight and exercise, 2) use some OTC fish oil/Omega 3 capsules, or 3) use medication. Obvious choice for me is exercise and lose weight. The capsules... I dunno. Maybe as an additional help? I don't know if I want to mess with taking pills if I don't have too, so at this time I think I will work on #1.

Second, I need to increase my HDL/Good Cholesterol. Options are: 1)exercise, 2) stop smoking, 3) use of prescription medication (he notes this is not as effective though). Well, #1 is part of the first item. The stop smoking, well, I felt not ready to give that up when we spoke about it, but I guess it is time to really start to address the issue. More on this at the end.

Third, the blood pressure needs to be lowered. Options are: 1) lose weight and exercise, 2) limit salt - 4 grams or less per day, 3) use a prescription medication, or 4) use the CPAP machine for the sleep apnea. Well, again #1 is in progress, the salt, I guess I just need to watch really salty foods (there go french fries unless I order unsalted.... like that will make a difference). Prescription meds are out - don't want to take the pills if I don't need to, leaving the CPAP, which is already in use, and we will re-address in a few months when we re-evaluate how I am doing.

Right now he recommends 3 months until another appointment unless for other reasons I need to make one. At that time, we will do the EKG, as this last time, the office one was not working, and the replacement one had not arrived. For now, the EKG was not the more important of things, though he would like to make sure no heart things were out of the ordinary, though I have no complaints at this time.

Down to the bottom line. Exercise and weight loss are the very obvious. Though I have lost 10 pounds in the 4 weeks between appointments, much more is needed. With the CPAP machine, I am feeling more energetic due to better sleep, so that will help. Diet is also helping me feel a bit more energetic. I just need to motivate myself more to get out and do some form of exercise. I don't have a gym membership, and not really looking to get one at this time. Walking would be a good place for me to start, and I want to get out and get Christmas shopping done, too, so maybe I can start there. Get to know the store layouts of Wal-Mart, Kmart and the mall. No, not going to Target. I read they are owned by the French...lol.

Smoking is going to be a big step for me as well. having that bad habit since I was 18 is going to be hard to break. Yes, I know it is possible, and you hear stories about it all the time. I have been cutting back over the past handful of years, but we are talking about a complete stop. I know it would be good for me, but in my head, do I really want to stop? Yeah, dilemma there, huh? Well, I got 5 cigarettes left in last pack I have with me. After that, I am going to push for no more. Last attempt I made I was able to go 2 days before I broke down...let's see if I can make it 5 this time. They say after the fifth day, the body isn't craving anymore, and it turns into the mental part of breaking the habit. I am mental enough (take that how you will) that maybe I can do it. No, that IS how I am going to do it (got to be positive about it, right?).

Yeah. Big changes for this big guy. Place your bets now, you might win some money - though not from me.

PeacE

Come Monday

Yeah, another start to another week.

So, Friday I got the CPAP machine finally. I am supposed to have oxygen with it at night, but there was a bot of a screw-up I guess. The guys at Sleepmed that gave me the machine, they do not supply oxygen. The guy that I had the appointment with explained that they notify some supplier and they contact me regarding the oxygen. That afternoon I get a call from this company. They say they are ready to get me set up with the CPAP and the oxygen. I explain that I already have the machine, and am needing just the oxygen. Well, she says that they do not supply just one or the other. They only do both. I gave her the info that Sleepmed is the one that supposedly contacted them to get me oxygen, and I could understand if I didn't get it until Monday since there obviously was some kind of miscommunication between the two companies. She said she would check into the problem and call me back Monday either way - if the would supply the oxygen or not. I said that was fine.

Saturday I get a call from the same gal. Now she was inquiring if I owned the machine, or rented. I said I was under the impression that I owned it, as paperwork I had signed allowed Sleepmed to bill my insurance. She mentioned that they may be able to supply oxygen only as long as I owned the machine, but not if I rented, and she was going to have to check and get back to me on Monday. Again I said that was fine. Now it's Monday and I am waiting a phone call to find out what the hell is going on.

Sleeping with the machine ain't too bad. I am sure a few of you out there probably use, or have used, one before. They seem fairly common anymore. I am using a style that has "nasal pillows" - for those don't know, it is soft, pliable rubber that "sits" against the nostrils with adjustable headband gear to hold it in place. I am impresed how small and quiet the machine actually is - mine even has a humidifier. And it all came in a nice carry-on type shoulder bag, very convenient for traveling, and even just storage.

Last night was my second night using it. I still am a bit sore/tender feeling at my nose - I am sure until I get used to wearing it. I do already feel more alert throughout the day, and not so tired all the time. This morning I woke up feeling pretty stiff as well. I think it is because I actually slept in one position all night because I wasn't waking up so much. Overall, I am feeling better and hope to see more improvement over the course of time.

Thanksgiving is our next holiday coming up. Not sure what we are going to do. I think the in-laws are getting together at an aunt's house in Cottonwood - or is it Prescott? - I can't remember. I think my family is getting together at my sister's place. Wife and I haven't decided this exact minute what we want to do yet.

That's about all I got to say today. Be back maybe tomorrow.

PeacE

Free form

I am so pissed! My Uncle Mike is possibly dying... not sure. But the guy just went thru a 5 bypass surgery the other day. I get an EMAIL...Yes, one of those from my mother... (hold on, I am pissed) from my mother telling me that he is not doing well.....

I have only 2 uncles left on that side of the family. Yes, I was never close to any, but family is family.

I was never close to either of the remaining uncles. I got no excuses, and I make none. It took to being an adult, late in life to accept them, the two uncles I have left on that side of the family. And I feel I am not closer to either one, no matter what goes on.

Uncle Larry, is a man that I feel intimidated by. He is an aggressive business man. Nothing wrong with that, but yeah, he is at retirement. So? He could stand to teach alot, or throw pointers to. I have not seen him much. Maybe that is my issue, as well as his. He has much to share in that sense.

Uncle Mike is almost an opposite of Uncle Larry. UM likes to get drunk, play guitar and live life like he's pulling some big-ass fish from the water. Or maybe he's just got his guitar at the bar and feels like singing.

Those two brothers, are like opposites. And to this day, they won't talk to each other. And I am supposed to love them both.

I ain't asking for nothing. I never have asked of anything from these two uncles. But if I did, it would be for both of them to get off their own asses and say "sorry" for whatever pissed the other one off. Make me a happier nephew.

And if they didn't. (shrug). I can't control the thoughts of men. Never tried to. Just wanted to have a happy ending... no matter what. Yeah, I know. Fuck me.

PeacE

Just a Blurb

I had my appointment for the CPAP machine today. Thirty minutes of him showing me how to hook it all together, operate, take apart for cleaning, and storage. Comes in a nice carry-on type bag with handle and shoulder strap... very fashionable. I am anxious to get started using it this evening, just because the thought of getting a full night's undisturbed sleep, and to awaken feeling rested with more energy, is beyond my comprehension right now. I am excited.

Though, now I need to wait for the "Oxygen Man". No, he's not a superhero or anything like that. I guess the doc had ordered me on oxygen while using the CPAP, so they deliver separate than the machine people. You would think they would do it all together, but they don't. So whatever company does the oxygen supply has to contact me and arrange delivery so I can attach and use that as well.

So, I now have two additional companies for supplies, renewals/recharges/replacements all at different times. Plus a "cleaning" schedule for the different apparatus (es?) of the CPAP machine, all to remember.... yeah, better rest should help memory, right? Thank goodness there is a guideline written down for all that crap.

Yesterday I took my oldest son for the afternoon and we spent it playing games. Today is the middle son's turn. We just finished lunch and he is playing around waiting on me to get into WoW so we can hook up and "run our characters" together. It's great doing even this kind of time together... beats none at all!

PeacE

Some Good Amongst the Bad

I had my doctor's appointment yesterday. Believe or not, it was pretty much good news. I've lost 10 lbs in 4 weeks. I have only cut portions basically so far. Blood was drawn for an AoneC test regarding sugar in the blood. Based on the results for this will see if I need any type of medication, as well as if I have diabetes.

Today I have an appointment to get my CPAP machine. Seems in my sleep study, my sleep interrupted 106 times. One of the very rare times the doc said he has seen it that high. After they had hooked me to a CPAP the number dropped to 8. My oxygen levels were dropping to 72% (normal is 96-98%) so this should really help. I am hoping just to sleep good and actually awake refreshed feeling and maybe have a little more energy.

Nothing else much going on. Trying to get this stuff done so I can be healthier.

PeacE

Never Funny When It Happens to You

So I am all pissed off about this incorrect billing and all from Verizon, thinking once again, I am getting screwed by some major corporation, and there is nothing I can do about it. My Wife spent some time going over the billing and comparing it to the phone plan we have, etc. Seems she said it is a correct billing. Our daughter's new plan they switched to was not on that billing and she had gone over her text limit quite a bit. Sigh. A call to her to cut back until we know things are on the new plan where she has more texts available. Either way, I can't win.

Have a doctor's appointment in the morning. I hope to have lost a good 10 pounds, but will be more realistic and  say at least 5. It's a start. Eating healthier has made me feel a little better. We will go over my sleep study results as well, and will get the final determination about using a CPAP or not. I thin I will have to use one, and that can help me feel better too, as I hopefully will sleep better and not feel as tired as I do all the time.


Oldest son was out from school yesterday sick. He seemed to feel a little better last night, but do not know if his mother sent to him to school today or not. Middle son seems ok... will know more in a few days I am sure.

Christmas season is pretty much started. I need to get out and start doing the store rounds now before the crowds go crazy. It'll help with exercise too, all that walking. Maybe I can start later this week. Going to have to check with the Wife since we had that huge Verizon bill.

PeacE

Warming Up the Anal Lube

My stomach is in knots and hurts like hell. What started out as a good weekend has just gone to shit.

This afternoon, my oldest son starts coughing a bit. His temperature is 100.7 and he felt bad enough that he actually went and laid down early this evening. The Wife gave him some cough medicine to help. Then a few hours later, the middle son starts to cough. I don't know if it is sympathy coughs, or he is coming don with the same thing.

We had just got the boys to bed a short time ago, and the Wife was going through the bills to get them paid. This is where it starts hurting....

Opened our current Verizon bill, for our cell phones. First, she opened a notice stating we owe almost $1500. We're both like WTF?!? No explanation, just a "Due Now" notice. She locates the actual current billing and it has the same amount. HUH?! Reviewing it, it turns out it is the daughter's phone that is causing this billing issue. The Wife and daughter had gone in over a month ago, to the actual store, to replace the daughter's phone as it wasn't working properly. As usual, they did not have the exact model she had, but had an equivalent. Also, since the cell phone plan in place was previously from when it switched from Alltel (supposedly - though we had been in twice and changed plans to Verizon ones since) they had to re-adjust her plan.

So, last billing, things were normal. This month, suddenly, the plan is not set up the way it was to be done from their visit, and we have a balance due of $1500. I am just fucking livid, and know I cannot do anything until tomorrow... and even then have to wait for the Wife to get off work to go with me to the store as I have no idea what plan they set up specifically. So another 20 hours of dealing with this. Wife is on the phone with the daughter telling her to chill on the texting until we get this straightened out... as even the # of texts she did last month would have exceeded the plan they set up .... Fuck, I don't know what to do at this point. $1500 is alot for damn cell phone bill.

Now the older son has complained it is starting to hurt as he breathes. The Wife thinks he may be coming down with the respiratory flu. She and I both have had our shots, but with three boys, it is still going to run rampant in the household.

Just a fucked up, screw me in the ass thing. Life was getting too nice for me I guess.

PeacE

I'm Not Really Crying

Between yesterday, and so far into today, I have not been tremendously happy. I don't know what has brought it on, but my allergies have awoken and are making up for all the times they weren't around before. I am talking to the point I have sneeze fits just minutes apart, the whole runny nose bit, and let's not start about the itchy, watery eyes. The regular OTC meds I take usually help but this time, it doesn't seem to be doing anything. I am hoping I don't need something stronger, like a prescription. Find out if they are still bugging me at my Dr's appt in the next week or so.

So Tuesday was nice. When we picked up my daughter's car, there was no charge for anything. The fluid levels were fine, and no new brakes. That was nice considering how much we have spent there this year on the van. As for the voting results, I am happy about a couple of them.... Jan Brewer is still Gov, and the 'medical marijauna' did not pass here. I believe my brother voted opposite me on both those, but I don't think he read through the full information on them. Like most people... just heard some aspect that sounded good to them, and went with it.

That's all for now.

PeacE

Did YOU do IT Today?

It is a voting day. Did you do your American Right? Did you take the opportunity to be able to bitch about politics for the next 2 years? Because if not, you need to shut yer hole!

I voted. About 3 weeks ago. I am on the early ballot list here where I live, and I love the chance to be able to peruse all the issues and candidates in plenty of time as I mark my selections. So far, in this and past elections, the candidates I chose have not at the last minute done some God-forsaken act that would change my opinion. May that trend last forever (fingers crossed).

This time around, they did not enclose my little sticker that says "I Voted!" in my ballot. Past times they have. I fixed it though. Not only did I go by the polling place to drop off the Wife's ballot (she didn't have her's done in time to mail) but I took my daughter for her first time. No lines. Lots of stickers. I made sure we both got one, and that she displayed hers on her chest as well... though not in such a way that guys would be staring at her chest more than they should - it's my daughter after all.

What was really nice, is we had taken her car into the garage first. Then the voting place. Ten we went to Denny's for breakfast. This is the first time we have sat down just the two of us and talked, since she first went away to college. If you are a regular reader, you know some of the issues we had while she lived at home. It was a great morning, a great breakfast, and great discussion.

So, the garage calls... her brakes are fine (thought we needed to replace due to the squeaking) and no replacement needed. They topped of her fluids, blew the dust out. Hoping they call with it ready in the next few minutes, otherwise I run her to her appt first.

Damn good day!

PeacE

Another Week Gone

Hmmm. Didn't feel like it had been so long since I last posted, but it has been almost a week. Time flies when nothing is happening, huh?

Since last post... Took my son to the cardiologist. Basically came down to muscular pain, though they did ask us to get some blood work done to rule out anything else.

That's about it. Nothing really exciting happens to me anymore since I been working on cutting down on the drinking. I have lost maybe 5-10 pounds over the past 3 weeks. I notice my pants aren't as tight as they were before.

The Wife and boys did a 5K walk yesterday. Even the youngest at 4 years old walked just 2 blocks shy of the whole thing.

Daughter is due up tomorrow night. She has an orthodontist appt Tuesday morning. Plus, I will be taking her car in to have the brakes done. Then while the car is at the garage, will run her down to the polls so she can vote. I did my voting by early ballot about 3 weeks ago.

Started doing some Christmas shopping, hoping to get it done early enough this year so I don't have to mess with the crowds. Looks like I will be doing alot of online ordering for that reason too.

Okay, I got nothing else right now.

PeacE

Been a Few Days

I didn't realize it had been a few days since I last updated... I guess I should apologize for leaving you readers hanging on the edge to find out what happens next in the exciting saga of my life.

Let's play a bit of catch up, shall we?

Last Thursday I did my sleep study. God, I don't ever want to do one of them again. I went home at 6am feeling more tired than when I started. In short, I think I will end up having to use a CPAP machine, considering, at one point they woke me up and attached one to me for the study. Aside from the electrodes all over and the gunk from attaching them all over in  my hair, it was a comfortable stay I guess.

Last Tuesday, my oldest son had a n episode at school in PE class where he had some severe chest pains. Today, actually in about 15 minutes, we are leaving to get him into the cardiologist's for a visit to see if there is anything wrong. He had had a heart murmur show up two years ago, though I don't know if it is related to this incident or what. Everything else seems fine for him.

The Wife was able to find a couple costumes for the two younger boys for this weekend. As well as some clothes for a "play on names" at work. For those of you that know her, she's going as "Del Taco" and the costume is kinda cute (makes me hungry though).

Spent Saturday at my Sis' place celebrating my bro, sis-in-law, and their 2 younger kids' birthdays. Got to watch some of the live feed from BlizzCon (makers of WoW, Starcraft, and Diablo) and get some answers for the new expansion to WoW.

That's it for now. This week will prolly be slow. I need to get ready to leave....

PeacE

Sleeping on the Job....Sis said so....

Funny title today. I only took it because my Sis threw it in the works. Fall asleep at any job.

I laugh. I really do. Because I have the capability to fall asleep at any given time or place.. That is what she is throwing at me.

Honestly, due to my habits, I generally can fall asleep anywhere, where I m comfortable. My Wife will, and does, confirm this.

I am still doing the sleep study, that my doctor assigned... yes, I am thinking of the same things they are gonna get.... I am not trying to circumvent. I am trying to let, the record, read.

Scared about Diabetes - yes I am.
Scared about high blood pressure - yes I am.
Scared about any other anomalies that show up - YES I AM.

Some of you think it funny. Hell, I laughed at one time, too. I am still waiting results...

But I got fingers pointing already.. how fucked up is that?

I know I didn't father that kid.....and I know I wasn't with the one that claimed I was..... I have distinctive memory about that that....

I am irritated at people, that claim the wrong things... not just at the bar, but in life, in general.

PeacE

Feelin' Groggy On A Sunday

While the wife is away at church with the boys, I figured I could drop a few lines here. Not much else is going on, and I'm tired of the porn clips. That was a a joke, RM.

Well, it's been a week since my Dr. visit. Things are progressing. I have been pretty good about cutting down on meal portions, and actually feel like I have lost weight, though have not weighed myself. I fear that even feeling this much better,there won't be any change....

I have my sleep study scheduled for this Thursday night. Thankfully, it isn't too far from home. I am just hoping I will be able to fall asleep there. I have some kind of subconscious thing that doesn't let me fall asleep if I am at a place that doesn't feel like home, unless I am trashed. I figured if I brought a book, I should do okay.

Other than that, I am just waiting for the blood test and x-ray results. Doc said he would mail them with a letter of explanation if things were normal. So, yeah, I am hoping to just get mail.

That's all I got for now... except this ear worm that's bugging me....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNy6ckNN7fo

PeacE

Things Are Looking Good

It is very early on a Friday. Only because, yes, I am home at an early hour from the bar on a Thursday night. I was good. For me, anyways. Did not imbibe as much. I was trying to do my best not to do so. Unfortunately, along with that, the not imbibing so much, I tend to hear more of the drama there... which I want no part of. Luckily, I played it, like I was shit faced again, and when asked, I was like" Huh?"

Safe answers at a bar. Maybe a file should be started. Nah. Them people, yeah, they ain't worth it. Really. Not the ones at this bar anyways. Then again, I am not born-again, either way, I don't think they wanna hear a "witnessing". (shrug) Sorry RM, sometimes it is not the best place.

Either way, it doesn't matter at this moment.

I have spent the last couple days doing some one on one with my boys - the 3 kids I have left at home. This week they are a Fall Break for a week. Today I finished up with the 2nd son. I have had an enjoyable time, playing some WoW together, and a little bit of dad-son time. I have not been as good a father as I want to be, and I am trying to change that... this has helped a bit I think. Got to listen to gripes/complaints/bitches, more than I could if Mom were home. At the same time, I supported Mom (and myself) as to why sometimes things were that way. The older boys seemed to understand, and we'll find out over the next couple weeks if it all 'comes together'. If we gotta do the time again we can, but it was nice, they bitched, I explained, and admitted my faults in the same process. They relished that, yes, I, too, have not put priorities in the right order. But accepted, that by me doing that, things were expected of all of us, not just me, but they have to hold their end too. They were cool about it.

Tomorrow is Friday. I have the youngest for the day. He's 4 and honestly, I am a bit lost. He can maneuver around the computer desktop like a pro, get to Bored.com, pick his game, and play it, then pick another, with no help. He is 4. Computer is like his 2nd home. I know this is a factor nowadays because the technological life we live in, but ... HEY! He's 4! By the time he is 10, he'll prolly be re-writing my programs, and how the hell am I gonna hide some stuff from him?

Oh wait, you ask, what would I hide? (sigh) Works in progress. Sounds like I "May" be a writer. I dunno. But I don't like anyone seeing it before I share. My Wife doesn't search. She asks every now and then... I heard the tapping, did you do good? I grunt and say, ok. Cuz half the tapping, it more than likely wasn't on the work I wanted, it was prolly updates on FB or some other crap.

Okay, enough of this tonight. It is late, I need some sleep. The 4 year old can be demanding, though I think tomorrow, we will be just fine.

PeacE

Back to Feeling Okay

Yeah, that whole Monday post didn't turn out so hot. I still ended up going out that night, and imbibing a few too many. I wasn't worth shit yesterday. Probably didn't matter, as Warcraft was doing a patch, and was down all day anyways.

So here we are on Wednesday. My boys are out of school this week, so I am thinking about having one of them stay home today with me. Not only does it give me some 1-on-1 time, it helps keep me from doing stupid shit, like going to the bar. I think I will start with the oldest, so I guess I should think of some ideas for us to do.

Nothing else exciting going on. Waiting to hear from the sleep study people, so I can get that done. Will probably be another week before I hear from thh doc on the blood test and x-ray results. In the meantime, I am just plodding along. Dinner last night was good, and I was able to keep myself to one decent served portion. I still felt hungry afterwards, but not as much. Though, I did drink quite a bit of water throughout the day. and that may have helped.

Thinking about running to the store for snacks... Maybe, maybe not.

PeacE

Through a Difficult Weekend

Whew! It's Monday! I know most of you don't choose that type of way to describe these mornings that signal a return to work for the masses. I am, at least this week, greeting it with a hearty WHEW!

Not like my weekend was overly busy.... but for the simple things I had to fight against. Trying to start out on a good foot so to speak, following that Friday Dr. visit. Though I will admit Saturday night, out to dinner with family, I STUFFED myself. I mean, I ate til I could eat no more. Even if it was only the never-ending salad at Olive Garden, I took perverse pleasure knowing most of it was good for me, and ok to eat as much as I wanted. Well, compared to me eating the never-ending pasta bowl (which really looked good too). More greens, fiber, etc versus carbs (pasta), greasy sausages (mmmm).... (sigh). Good thing I really enjoy the salad dressing at Olive Garden. In fact, I will have to get some salad here at home. Forgot I had received a bottle as a gift from RM of the stuff.

So that doesn't sound too bad.... mentally battling over healthy salad versus very delicious, and mouth-watering pasta with sausage. Sunday was my harder day. I had to get through the day without heading out to the bar. I swear, like 7 different times throughout the day I just wanted to up and leave, go have a few beers (which would turn into a few more). I had awoken at like 5am that morn, and ended up taking like 3 naps throughout the day to help curb the thoughts. And I was hungry on top of that! Wife brought home come Chinese for lunch, and I had TV dinner for supper. But I wanted more. I mean, I am working portion sizes here at the beginning before I worry about type of intake.

SO yeah! WHEW! Not that anything is going to change. Today will be another day I try not to go to the bar. That I try to keep my meal intake to a bit smaller portion than normal. In fact, I am thinking of going to the store and picking up some stuff for snacks. Doc said that is good. Healthy snacks help keep the body aware I ain't starving it, especially in cutting portion sizes. So figured some cucumbers (like them just cold and sliced), some lettuce - though I may opt for the pre-mixed salad so I don't have to waste time making it. I am not sure what else. I will do my best to avoid the Lil Debbie area (oh I love them oatmeal cookies and the cakes!).

Welp, Wife is up to start getting ready for work. I should get my stuff together to get going as well. I have a half-ass made list of stuff that needs to get done/picked up this week, preferably today.

PeacE