At the End of the Day ....

 Today I am sure many are just trying to get through it. Some of us have to work, and even may get off early. Others are on vacation still. Others are out of work due to business closures, or other reasons. Some are just looking forward for a chance to get stupid drunk tonight. Myself? I am working. Finally a project got started and I will be working not only today, but tomorrow as well. I have no problems working tomorrow since I work from home, and I would probably be doing nothing of importance anyways.

Today, and tomorrow, many people are going to be thinking about resolutions for the new year. I have posted about them before - probably almost every year - but the past several I gave up o making any. RM mentioned around Christmas that I "had a phrase" I would use in regards to resolutions, but I could not think of what it was, and couldn't find it in previous posts about this time of year. Either way, I truly believe that resolutions are nothing more than wishful fantasies and fantastical lies we try to convince ourselves to make ourselves better. I am sure it works for some people. I guess it is in how "big" you wish for. I won't be making any resolutions.

For the first time in many years, my family is going out tonight. We are getting together with a small group of friends (of mine) and even the youngest Son will have someone close in age to hang out with. Yeah, I'll probably have a few drinks, as the Wife will be able to drive home. It won't be tremendously late after midnight, as I do have to work tomorrow.

Tomorrow starts a new year. I have seen memes stating to say it this way - 2020 won - but by making to tomorrow, evidently it didn't.

I need to get ready to get working. Enjoy your day. See you next year.

PeacE

A Day Closer to the Eve of the Bad Year

 2020

I am sure for years to come, at least a handful, people are going to talk about this year. Like the Great Blizzard in '78 in (whatever state) stories we hear on occasion. I've been thinking about this past year the last couple of days, and trying to determine was there any good things that came from it.

I started a new job. Granted, due to quarantine it was months later than expected, but also because, it has made it possible to work from home versus driving halfway across town. Which brings us to the car. If I were traveling to/from work, it could have broken down on the freeway. I would have been in dire need of some transportation at a time we probably could not have afforded it. That's a good positive.

I was able to have more time with the boys, those that lived at home, during the year. Maybe not like "quality time", but time none the less.

As of today, I sold our old house. Though the Close of Sale doesn't happen until next year, it's a positive for us.

No one near and dear to me has passed away from Covid ... another positive.

Financially, things for us have gotten a little better. Not a lottery big winner, but still enough to let us breath a bit more easily. Positive again.

The oldest Son's car started the path to falling apart, and yesterday we were able to find a good deal on a used vehicle for him. His old car is ready for me to call Kars for Kids to donate it. Positive again.

Sure there were some negative points, but I try not to dwell on them. I went "stir crazy" quite a few times over the time at home. Days of pent-up frustration from not being able to go anywhere, or do anything out in the world. Anger at how the Government on any level, was handling the epidemic. Heck, I still have that frustration going.

Is 2021 going to be a better year? I don't know. The saying is it is what you make of it. I am sure we all want to make it be a good year, but I know, there has to be some bad things, so that you know you have good things.

Maudlin thoughts today.... Tomorrow should be interesting.

PeacE

Getting In That Last Shot

This past year is considered by many to be a bad year. For most, I am sure that 2020 bringing us the Covid-19 quarantines, and shut-downs of businesses, was the worst of it. I am sure there are others that had it worse, those that lost loved ones from illness - Covid related or not - because it seems that anytime anyone was sick, or died, it was Covid related. The Wife was tested positive for it back in April, and only spent about a week and a half at home feeling flu-like symptoms. Yes, I'm thankful. Though, in my head I still believe she just had a version of the flu, versus it truly being Covid. But the "required" preventions of self-isolation for 14 days were taken.

So talking about how it has been such a crappy year, 2020 decided to get one on me before closing out. Due to the all the "extra" eating between holiday meals, and some of the goodies I got for Christmas, yesterday I had a "sour stomach". you know the one. When you burp, they are stinky burps, giving you a heads up that you are going to have a sick tummy, and probably a case of the backyard trots. Uh-huh. I did. Bad enough that I skipped dinner out with the Daughter and family. This morning as the alarm went off and I got up for the day, I did a little self-check. Yeah, tummy feels better. Good! Went to the bathroom to empty the bladder accumulation of the night, passed some air.....and a little more. Yeah, I crapped my pants. Though I feel better, there is evidently some remaining issues to resolve...so maybe some Immodium AD this morning. I would say Pepto, but that always makes me throw up.

Now, got a clean change on, and waiting at the computer for some work. I did receive an email from the employer around midday yesterday. Basically, it said the project I was on is now finished (really?) and they have several new projects starting this week and next. Be sure to let Recruiting now your availability status. So I sent off an email to them, letting them know I am ready and waiting. Then sat there pretty much all day, waiting for nothing. This morning I still sit here and wait. If nothing comes in by noon, I'm calling the Son early and we will go look at cars.

Which is what I am spending my morning doing. I found a location of a used car sales place, and am going through the car inventory to see if we should even stop at the location nearest us. At least see what they have. Hopefully it will narrow the hunt down. If I can get out early enough, we should be able to get it all taken care of today as well. Getting to the bank for the cashiers check will be the timely thing, as they have been closing early since last spring.

The BIL and Sis are taking a look at the old house this morning, since I gave them a chance to do the last counter for the sale. I don't think they can match what the first offer was, and in ways I hope they don't. Then again, they may feel because I am family they "have to" and then will have eat any profit they could make. I don't care. I'm going with who gives me the most. We aren't hiding any of the facts about as-is and fixer-upper needs that the house shows. What's that saying... caveat emptor, I think?

Well, nothing to ramble on about this morning so I shall get back to looking at cars.

PeacE

Finishing Out the Year

 The last week of 2020 is here, and like the most of this past year, it is going to be a complicated one.

I got out of bed at my regular working time, and logged into the computer. The last project had finished up on Thursday, and no word of a new project has come in my emails. I double-checked our work Teams, the work email, my personal email.... nothing. So I presume I will be sitting here this morning, just waiting for some kind of information about work to come along. It is somewhat frustrating with these smaller projects, the time delays in getting people 'switched' from project to project, and the time hours lost when having to wait on the new information to com. Out of four days work last week, I only logged 22 hours. Fortunately, our finances currently are okay, and it doesn't hurt us, but still - it is irritating for me, and what of those that require those hours for their means?

Saturday night, I received a video from the oldest Son, of him sitting in his car, turning the steering wheel, and hearing some kind of clunking noise. Last week he had a tire go flat, to find out that the indie edge of the tire had worn to the wires. Obvious as alignment issue. Which frustrated us, as he had that alignment done about 2 1/2 years ago. It should not have been that bad. The other side is worn, but not as badly. The talk was we would help him get a new tire, so he isn't driving on that little donut spare. But now this new issue.... I got up Sunday morning and drove over, to see if I could help narrow down what the issue was - I was thinking CV Boot. I couldn't figure it out. The noise was loudest in side the car, almost like something catching on the steering column housing.... but couldn't define what. To me, it had nothing to do with the cv joint. No issues driving, he said, except when turning very sharply, it sometimes sounded like the tire was rubbing the wheel-well.

This car has been somewhat of a sore spot for the past few years. When this Son graduated, we were trying to find an affordable car for him, and my Brother had this one available. They asked more than I really wanted to pay, but it was family, and was the bluebook price (because his wife is a bitch and wouldn't even lower for family). Either way, had several small scratches, and small dents, but it worked. Within the first couple days we noticed the transmission didn't like to shift into the final gear when driving. That has lasted the several years (about 4+) he has had it. Then there were the three hit and runs on it (not his fault - and never caught) that left other small injuries to the body of the car. He has had it in the shop a couple times (alignment for one, forget the other). In the past couple weeks, he has had a window motor/mechanism fail, and has not been able to get it fixed yet. Like the Son, I am frustrated, and feel his anger and want to rid himself of it, and find another. But who can afford that?

Christmas Day I had told him that the Wife and I would help him financially with finding another car. Now with the new issues, he and I are planning on going to look at some cars tomorrow afternoon to see if we can find something. RM if you are praying, throw a good word in for us. I am hoping to find something under $10K that will last him a good 7-10 years. Friends of mine say I shouldn't help him financially, that he needs to learn to solve his own problems as he is an adult. To a degree I feel that way as well, but having had to go through many of life's problems that way, and having help a few of those times, if I have the means, to help at least a little, I will.

New Years Eve and Day are this week. My friend J wants to have a get-together at his place on the Eve. I don't know. The past several years I haven't gone out on those nights, sober or otherwise, to avoid the amateur drinkers out on the road. He only live s a couple miles from me, but still I am leery. Of course I would invite the Wife (who would DD for me) and there are hopefully going to be other couples there as well. I suppose I will check with him to see how many other s have committed to being there.

And that brings us to the issue of resolutions. Which we will address another day.

PeacE

Another Holiday Done With

 Ahhhh.... the Eve of Christmas, and it has finally reached it's closing hour. I say hour, because I don't think I will last much longer than that from now before I will find myself in bed fast asleep.

Overall, though a tiring day, it was filled with happiness, food, and fun. We made it to the Sons' place, and all the kids enjoyed the saran-wrapped stocking game. When asked if we should do that instead of stockings, they were excitedly saying yes. It has made the new family traditional thing to do now. The Wife had even made a small one for Doodad to undue herself, which she did with glee, mimicking the others about flinging it around trying to get the saranwrap to come undone. The Wife had another game the kids played before we settled into doing the gifts. I believe everyone really enjoyed what was received, and even I was surprised by a couple things I was given. All said, a couple nice light jackets, a new desk chair, and good food/snacks were some of the highlights I received.

Then it was a small exodus of all us driving to RM's, for yet more gifts to be given, followed by a nice ham dinner, including cole slaw (which, because I am the favorite, RM made for me), and other goodies. Followed that up with some pies - I admit I had two pieces. Much food was sent home amongst several members of our group. I got a pie, too! We have finally made it home, unloaded the vehicle, and am finally able to relax a little. I know I still need to unpack my bag of goodies, but at this point, I think it can wait. Except maybe the puzzle book I got. I want to check that out.

Yes. Truly a good day in my opinion. Spent time with all my kids, and my Doodad, and my parents. Hope yours was as good!

PeacE

Ah, Crap! It's Here....

 Merry Christmas, and all that other sappy seasonal greeting crap. Now that that is out of the way, I can get back to the boring content.

Every Christmas I think back to the years when the kids were little. how the Wife would be up until 2am most Eves, wrapping presents, and dealing with my griping because I was tired and wanted to go to bed. Then the waking up at 7am, or earlier some years, to bring the presents out to the tree (had pets, who liked to rip into things, so kept them put up til morning of). Then there was the token "WAKE UP"? call through the house, and the mugs of hot cocoa (not me, I had coffee) made for everyone before settling down to do our family time of opening gifts. Those were good memories. But now, I really prefer being able to sleep in, somewhat. I woke a bit before 6am this morning, and napped til about 8. Then decided it wasn't worth laying in bed anymore, and got up. With only the youngest in the house, there won't be a family Christmas morning, and those days may be gone now.

We are moving our Family Christmas to the Sons' apartment this year, and to the early afternoon, to allow time for the Daughter and family to arrive from out of town. Our house is just too cluttered still from moving stuff out of the old home, and still not having much time to go through and "get rid of" stuff hoarded here before us. What is nice, though, is the old house is now ready to be sold. In fact, we had one company over yesterday to do a basic walk-thru, and received an offer. Another is scheduled for Monday, and both companies are aware that we are entertaining another offer. Then I will contact my Sis, and give them a last chance to counter (which, I am not sure they will be able to do so) then move forward with the best offer. It'll be nice to get that money-pit out of our lives. It will also be nice to have the money so I can finally get a new vehicle.

The Wife has a couple things to finish up this morning, mainly labeling the gifts (she wrapped/tagged/bagged per person last night). Then she will move on to a new tradition we started last year - the Stocking Ball. The one with toys/candy/etc wrapped up in a huge saranwrap ball shape, that they take turns with oven mitts on to open, while next person rolls for doubles. The kids all enjoyed it last year, and so we will do it again. Cheaper/easier than individual stockings! Then we will load up the van and head to the Sons'.

Anyways, hope y'all are enjoying the day!

PeacE

Bah, Humbug!

 Yes. I openly admit I am a Scrooge when it comes to Christmas. I hate the commercialization this holiday has become, and the 'requirements' that society expects people to do (give gifts, decorate, be of good cheer, etc). I do admit to liking any reason to get the kids all together, even if it is only for a few hours. Wish it didn't have to be a holiday to have that happen, but it is what it is.

It is Christmas Eve, and I have finished up wrapping what few presents I had amassed. I had most of the afternoon to accomplish this task, since the work project pretty much ended around 3pm. It was supposed to last a week.... that didn't happen. Add in the delays in getting on projects this week, I ended up with just under three days worth of work. Glad I don't have to live paycheck to paycheck! So presents are sitting off beside me here, waiting for the Wife to finish up whatever she needs to finish in the bedroom, and then they will get sorted into bags/boxes for what stop(s) we are doing tomorrow. Thankfully, this year we are down to two. Early afternoon we will be going to the Sons' apartment, where the Daughter's family will meet us, and do our family Christmas. Then I think it was like 5-6 in the evening will be going to RM's for Christmas with them, and dinner. I know I am going to be pretty worn out by tomorrow night, but at least there are fewer places we have to divide our time at.

No idea how I am going to entertain myself this evening. Not really in the mood for Netflix. Nor Warcraft. The middle Son is supposed to be coming by at some point tonight to help the Wife with something - I forget what. Guess I'll go find something to do rather than just sit here and stare at the screen.

PeacE

All Wrapped Up - Heh! I Wish

 The last couple days have been a bit frustrating. Monday, five hours into the workday, things came to a halt. They were going to check about a new project to switch us to, and asked us to wait 15 minutes, then go ahead and log off, but to watch our personal emails for information - what new project, and when to start it, etc. So, I waited online, doing nothing, for about a half hour, and no new information came along. I posted in chat that since it had been about 30 mins, I was going to log off and watch for an email with the info, then I logged off. And I waited. Around 3pm, my regular log off time, I decided there was no new project today, and I went out. A friend was in town for another friend's wedding, and we went to hang out for the evening. So yesterday, it was no surprise I slept in a little. Rolling out of bed near 10am, I still had not received an email about a new project. I went and logged in to the chat we use, to find out they had started the new project the afternoon before, about 3:30pm, and had me assigned to it, so I jumped into work mode and was able to still get my 8 hours in for the day. But I am a bit ticked they never contacted me about it. I would have started earlier than 10 am.

Sigh. It is what it is. 

I had planned to work my regular schedule yesterday, then start wrapping the gifts that I have gotten for others, but that didn't happen due to the above screw-up. By 6pm I was not in the mood to wrap, and instead too the Wife and Youngest out for dinner. So guess what I have on the agenda to do tonight? Not looking forward to it. I just don't wrap well. If gift bags weren't so expensive, I would use them like crazy! Or, as my brother likes to do, just leave them in the plastic bag you brought it home from the store in.... He will be teased about that for many more years!

Looks like we will be doing Christmas at the Sons' apartment this year. Still too many boxes of stuff around to get any room here. Though, as of last night the Wife had not given up yet. She spent most of the day wrapping presents (OMG!! Before 2am on Christmas Eve?!?!?!) which she NEVER has done before. I'm glad the majority of it has been done now. 

Looks like I will have a full day of work today (I hope) and tomorrow, who knows. They hinted yesterday there may be shorter available hours tomorrow, as Project and Team leaders will probably want to get home earlier to the families being the holiday Eve. Great. But maybe weekend hours will be available so I can get as much as I can done. We will see....

PeacE

Edit: So work.... sigh. I logged in ready to go this morning, and yesterday's project is done, moving to a new one, but not until 10 am - so is that three hours away? Or only one? Sigh. This company's lack of proper use of time zone information is frustrating at times. 

Second Edit: Someone was smart (finally) and put up the time zone. So now three hours of possible work time wasted, that *I* will have to find a way to make up. Sigh. I want to go back to the longer projects that we spend weeks doing.....

The Great Convergence

 I have seen many posts about it on Facebook, about the converging  alignment (or something-or-other) of the planets Jupiter and Saturn, that is supposed to happen today. More specifically, at duck, in the SE direction (?)I believe. In fact, this morning I saw a LIVE  Youtube feed recording the planets thru some high  telescopes so people could watch them align while doing something else. Supposedly, this is 2 of the three planets that aligned, and reflected the sunlight in such a way, it was considered the biblical Eastern Star that the three wise men followed to find the baby Jesus. Today, it is only 2 planets, and it supposedly hasn't happened since like 1292. I don't have time to see what major historical event may have happened that year, but wonder about this year. Already hearing theories, of why it is happening this year, based on current events, and many suppisitions of what it will foretell.

I think it means I will be working and doing what I need to do.

Got to spend some time with D00dad yesterday before they returned to their home. They will be back up Friday for the holiday, though I am still trying to figure out what times to be where. They only Christmas meet-up on hold it seems is our family one. We may end up doing it like RM does, though, there is only one family we would have to do separate. I don't know yet. Guess I will talk to the Wife whenever she gets her ass out of bed today... maybe before 10.

Time to start getting ready for work, though it is an hour away. That means the morning drink, a pop tart and probably a smoke.

PeacE

Waiting on a Woman

 Today's post title is a song title as well. A song sung by Brad Paisley, a country/Western singer, that has quite a few songs out that I enjoy. Some are humorous songs, and others are serious. This one is a little of both. I particularly like the video that was done for this song as it portrays Brad as the young man, and Andy Griffith as the older gentleman. I'll try to post the video at the end.

But there I was yesterday, just waiting on a woman. A young woman, about three years old. I was hoping that the Daughter and Doodad would show up prior to going to RM's house for Christmas baking, but that didn't happen. The oldest Son showed up close to 3pm to pick up the youngest, and get directions. Then it was just the Wife and I until about 10pm. I don't know when they finished the "Baking with Grandma" night, but it was late (to me) when they got back to our house.

I guess there was some driving around looking at Christmas lights involved (I heard). I wasn't angry, just tired, as I was up past my bedtime a little. I had been fighting falling asleep the last hour or so. But I finally got to see my Doodad! Of course, she was being the silly little girl she is and wouldn't give me loves. I finally got a hug from her after the Wife had seen I was going to bed (they were still here in the other room talking). They are heading back home today sometime, so I am hoping to see them for a bit today prior to their departure. Will hope to find out their plans for Christmas, so we can make plans accordingly.

Christmas is this week. That means it is going to be a week of crap. I need to work at least the four days before. No biggee. Need to wrap this week. Figure what I am going to do for that last present for the Wife. Fun. Anyways, here's that video..... RM make sure you watch and listen!

PeacE

Aches, Pains, Cold , and Goals

 It has been mentioned here before, about how achy I get in the joints, especially since it has finally started turning a bit more to the chilly side here in AZ. According to my phone, 10 minutes ago it was 40 degrees, which I consider slightly chill. I definitely would put on a light jacket to go outside. The bad knee has been acting worse than normal... of course, I "popped" something in it last weekend. It was weird. Often my knees pop - like popping knuckles - when I stand after sitting for awhile, but this time it was different. I was putting on shoes and socks, had my foot up on the opposite knee, and leaned forward slightly. Suddenly there was a "pop" noise and a sharp pain on the backside of the knee. My first thought was the knee had finally broken/given way...or a bone separated from the joint. Those thoughts turned to possibly a tendon tear/rip. I asked the Wife what she thought (her being a PT) and she could not determine any damage. I was walking on it, with only a small reminder of the pain when I twist/turn the lower leg in a certain direction. Still giving me issues this morning, but not as bad as earlier in the week, so I am guessing it is healing, or my body is just adjusting to it.

Rm caught it yesterday. But I hit my Goodreads.com goal of reading at least 175 books this year. As of right now I am at 177, and I might get one more finished prior to the end of year. I have a feeling that next year that number will be lower. With me working now, the time to read has gone a bit to the side, as I try not to spend too much time out at the pubs - where I did quite a bit of reading. I just find it hard to get in the reading mode at home, where there are other distractions and requirements of my time. Maybe some century when we have gotten through the 40 years of hoarding the MIL did, and get our stuff unpacked and put away, I'll be able to create me a reading niche at home. It's nice to dream sometimes.

My sleeping has been better the past month. Most nights I can get to bed around 9pm, and sleep through 6am without too much effort. I still wake a few times during the night, but am able to roll over and go back to sleep. In fact last night, I was asleep by 10pm and slept through until 8am this morning, when the bladder decided there was no more time to be ignored. Damn bladder.

PeacE

Finishing Up the Workday

 I just "got off" work about 30 minutes ago. It is so nice to be able to work eight hours between 7am-7pm M-F... take a lunch or whatever, whenever, as long as eight hours of work is done. I prefer to just work it straight, and as early as I can. Though, some days (after going to the pub with my buddies) I start a little later. I've been through three projects just this week, and from what we are told, there are several more in the pipeline to be done. At least that is some job security. I'll admit though, if I could be on a long-term type project, I would happier. This shorter ones have different protocols we have to go through, and it can get confusing between different projects. <Shrug> Will see what happens....

No major plans tonight. the Wife has started some pork loins in the oven, that she is planning to shred and make sandwiches. I'm probably going to end up playing Warcraft for a bit, then probably watch some episodes of shows I am catching up on.

Expecting the Daughter and Doodad up tomorrow. I presume they are not coming up tonight. They are doing the baking thing at RM's. I heard from the oldest Son that he plans on being out there around 3, and will probably be taking the youngest there and back. Don't know if that is the same time the Daughter was planning to be there or not. She mentioned to me last night that Doodad was a "little sniffly" and would see how she is feeling today. PT is such a whineybutt when it comes to anyone being sick even near him - family or otherwise. I do understand his fear of covid at his advanced age, but still. 

Guess I should get off to doing what ever I am going to do.

PeacE

Trying to Clear the Fog

 I'm still trying to wake up. I slept fine last night (for me) and woke 15 minutes before the alarm went off. So I laid in bed until it did. Still, I feel a bit foggy-headed this morning. I don't know if I have anything of value to share this morning....

I got to text a little with the Daughter the other night. I guess she and Doodad will be up this weekend and there stands a good chance of seeing them before Christmas. I guess the SIL is off work the rest of the year - something to do with using up his vacation days or something. Either way the girls will be here for Christmas baking with RM, I'm guessing Saturday. That might be the same day as the Oldest and Youngest sons go as well. I don't know, because no one has told me.

The cooler weather (down into the 40's at night now!) are making my joints ache more. Mostly my bad knee and my hip. A little bit in other joints. A sign I am sure of age, and lack of proper good use - or maybe overuse in some cases.

I'm done with shopping except for one more gift I would like to get for the Wife. I don't know if I can find what I want in a decent price range, but am running out of time for shipping. No way am I wanting to go to any store at this time of year.

PeacE

Yea! Go Work!

 I made it through the (mostly) boring meeting that lasted an hour, prior to being able to start working. I was all set to get in and start, having had no issues with logging in remotely to the software, Teams, and other programs I need. There were about 10 though, that couldn't get in the essential program we HAVE to use; another couple of users that couldn't get into the Remote Desktop the company uses; and about five of us that could access everything - except the work files for the project. Forty-five mins later they tell us all to log off and come back in an hour. I waited thirty mins and came back online. Everything was now working properly for me, so I started back in. After another thirty minutes, when others started to come back, many were till having issues on different levels. I simply said to my team lead, that I had access to everything, should I stop since they again told us to log off for another hour, or should I keep working? A resounding YES! was all I needed to hear. Besides that, having to start so late in the day makes it so much harder to get in that required 8 hours/day (I finished up tonight at 5:30, versus my usual 3pm).

Either way, at least I am able to work, and not have to wait on on technical issues, or bad log-in information. This project is pretty simple, similar to what I worked on Friday, and is supposed to last until approximately the 23rd. They said there is just over 11,000 documents to go through, so for now I have plenty to keep me going through Christmas.

Speaking of Christmas I bought myself a couple early presents. I should wrap them for myself and say they are from the kids, or the Wife, but probably not going to do so. I picked up season 2 & 3 of "Yellowstone" (I'd already watched season 1, and half of 2) and already started watching the rest of season 2. Season 3 was just released this last week, so I lucked out on that one. I'll probably be into that one before mid-week. Season 4 is on television now (cable channel - that I don't get) so will find somewhere to watch it I am sure when I am ready.

Welp, I figured I would get this post out early for tomorrow, as I return to my 7-3 shift with work.

PeacE

Let's See Where This Goes

 Another Monday morning, and I am up early, ready to return to work. It's a bit frustrating, that this company notifies you practically the day before to say there is a project and can you work on it. Via email no less. What if I had had day plans and wasn't able to check my email all day? Would I be working today? I dunno.... just a little something for me to complain about I guess. At least I am getting to work.

Saturday was the Santa Sleigh Run, and it went pretty well. Spent an evening hanging with my oldest Son and several other friends. Yes, did get s little intoxicated (read: a lot) but overall had a good time. I think what made it best for me was the time spent with the Son. Well, that one is done until next year....

I went to bed at a decent hour last night, thinking to be well rested this morning (considering Sat. night was a long one). About 3am I started waking up about every 15 minutes. About 5am I decided I should just get up. Besides, by then I had to use the rest room. Work isn't scheduled to start until 9am. Guess I have lots of time on my hand this morning.

Edit: I got bored, sitting here waiting. Not able to start work until after we have the protocol meeting at 9am (still an hour away yet). I decided to do something different this morning, and have made a cup of coffee. Yeah, it's instant decaf, and I have no caramel creamer flavoring, but it is nice. It has been a good year since I have had a morning coffee. These cooler mornings make it go down nice and smooth.

PeacE

Back To Work - Maybe

It was later in the day when I finally got around to checking my email again, to see if something had come in from the employer. Lo, and behold, there was an email informing me I was being assigned to a new project, slated to start the next morning (today) and I was to respond to the emailer, that I was aware of the start details, and had valid proof of working in the US. So, I did as requested, expecting a reply in morning (start time is listed as 11 MST) prior to start time, to be sure we can log in, etc. I arose from blissful slumber about 8am, and there was no new information. I even logged in remotely using the credentials I had last project. Nothing new there either. So, now I am wondering how soon before the start time are they going to contact me? Maybe work won't start today.....

So, I know I am going to be checking my phone and computer for emails/updates all morning now. I just want to get back to work. After nine months off, and then a month on, this is driving me nuts.

PeacE

A Rainy Day

 It rained last night. For Arizona, it was quite a bit of rain, as we have had a very dry year so far. That leaves it overcast today, which has bothered the Wife and I. Her, the headaches/migraines that come on in cloudy conditions (no idea why). Me, because I just feel a bit down in the dumps today. No word yet from the employer, so I am still waiting for that to happen.

My thoughts in my head are just in a jumble today. So I am sure the content will be sketchy and not completely tied to one another, like a normal thought process.

I watched "Richard Jewell" today, a film directed by Clint Eastwood. The 1996 Olympics being held in Atlanta, GA, and about the bomb that went off there. This was the story of the guard that found the bomb, moments before the explosion. I was young enough at the time, that I honestly never paid attention to the media coverage of the event, and following weeks as the FBI and media continued a huge amount of negativity on this man. Spoiler alert, eight weeks later the FBI gave him formal written notice that he was no longer a target in their search for the bomber. Six years later, the real bomber was caught. Within a few years of that, Jewell passed from heart failure. Overall wasn't a bad movie. Kinda slow, but interesting.

It is mid-afternoon and I have no idea what I am going to do. I should start wrapping gifts I have ready to wrap, but don't know if I really feel like it. Not sure about watching any other movie, or playing Warcraft, or napping, or reading. I really would like to get back to working. Sigh. Not many people say that these days.

Well, I been sitting here for the last 10 minutes trying to think of anything else to add, and I don't have anything. I may spend the afternoon just sitting here, letting the random thoughts run through my head.

PeacE

Another Day with No Work

 Monday afternoon I finished up the last "batch" of information that was the first stage of the project I am on for work. We had been told Friday, that many would be off this project, but Recruiting would re-assign to a new project, as the number of "batches" dwindles that morning. My Teal Lead had singled me out in chat, and told me they wanted to keep me on for a bit longer, for an additional step. But come Monday afternoon, that process was completed as well. They said as we transition to phase two, a few of us left would be kept on, others being re-assigned.

Well, today makes day two so far of not hearing anything. I am hoping I get to stay on the project so I can learn what the next stage is, but overall I would just want to be working. I logged into the work email and Team chat this morning, and though no emails, there was a new chat channel that I had access to for Quality Control. Only one comment was there, that it may be a couple days as they coordinated and trained a few people for the next phase. If I could see that..... must mean something. I just haven't heard anything.

Yesterday was the Wife's birthday. Much of the morning was spent with her in bed, emotionally upset and crying. not because she is older, but because she and her Mom had shared the same birthday (for reals) for all her life. This would be the 2nd one without her Mom. I did my best to do the right ting, but I just don't do well in those situations, so left her to it. The Wife was better in the afternoon, and even baked some brownies. Dinner was taken at Olive Garden. The middle Son joined us, the Older having to work a bit later. The Older Son did come by the house bearing gifts for his momma. So I got to see the two boys at least.

Our Santa Run is this Saturday. I did go out for a bit on Monday, but doubt I will be out the rest of the week due to Saturday. We had gone from an expected new record high of 18 Santas this year, and now am down to about 13. Seems the higher Covid counts had a couple drop out. A couple more from the fear of catching something, as they were going to be near, or help take care of elderly/sick parents. But we did get a 14-seater BMW party van for the night.

I think I am done with Christmas shopping. I can't think of anything else I really need to get - wait. Yes I can. Crap! Well, I will be on Amazon today looking for that one gift then. Then I will be done! We picked up some Tape the other day, so it will be wrapping time soon.

PeacE

Something A Little Creepy

 I didn't share it in the last post because I got so busy rambling on about shopping (who knew I could talk so much about a thing I hate to do). But there was a creepy thing that happened Saturday night.

I had gone to bed a little later than usual. I think it was around 11'ish. I WAS tired. Not quite sure when the Wife came to bed, but I'm guessing it was around the 12-1am slot, as usual for her. I have the vague memory of her getting into bed, then of I rolling over and going back to sleep.

It was dark still, meaning sometime before 5:30, when I woke. And I mean woke - the kind when you are dead asleep and into instant wakefulness the next instant. At first I was thinking "What the...." when I heard the noise. It was a distinct sound of someone walking down the hallway, in our direction. How can I know this? Well, the hall way is linoleum tiled, and it has a 90 degree turn halfway down, that leads the rest of the ay to our bedroom, and the study. The steps were like those of a person, casually strolling down the first part of the hall, coming from the living room.

The steps stopped. I was like "Who....?" when it dawned on me, that those were shoes. Like a hard sole men's dress show, or boots. And the only ones home were The Wife, myself and our Youngest. Maybe it was the middle Child just off work coming by to "play" on the computer... Except his schedule doesn't include that night. The steps had stopped, about where the turn in the hall way was.

Should I get up? Should I check the time? My cane is by the door, and my gun is in the cabinet behind my bedroom door. But whoever it is could rush the rest of the hall and get here before I could get any of that if he heard me. 

The steps started again, and I heard 6 of them - enough to put them in our doorway. I was looking. I couldn't see anything moving. I heard no doors open. I heard nothing.

I began to sonder what I should do, when I decided if something were going to happen, I was going to kill them unless they killed me first. SO I literally jumped from the bed and lunged to the door. Nothing was there. I opened the Study door, to see if it was the Middle child  in there - nothing. I walked all the way to the front door - nothing.

I lay back down and started wondering if I was losing it. I have 4 cats -not by choice of mine - could it have been any of them? Well, I know three at least spend most of the night in our room, on Wife's side of bed. The last one usually sleeping on furniture on Wife's side of room. And how would they make step sounds coming towards the room? Two different instances? The house haunted? I've been in here a year and a half, never heard anything before.

After pondering it for a few minutes, I categorized it as an auditory illusion created by waking too abruptly from a deep sleep. Only thing I could come up with that made sense. I never did check the time. I never told the Wife about it.

And I promptly rolled over, and went back to sleep.

PeacE

Sunday-Not-So-Much-Fun-Day

 Oh, I am feeling the pain of the Commercial Holiday! Not just in the pocketbook, but in my back and legs. Yesterday. the Wife and I went out to try to finish up the shopping for gifts. At least, I was shopping for the remainder of the ones I was "in charge" of getting. I did pretty much get them all, except for one gift for the Wife. It is hard to buy for her, let alone when she is with me. We started at Wallymort where I knew one specific item could be gotten at a good cost. While there, found a few items for the older Sons' apartment, an item for the youngest, something for the RM, and even picked up the basic zip-up hoodie for me. I know, you're not supposed to buy for yourself, but I truly needed it. I used to have this nice lined flannel, but it was lost when they totaled out the car I got rear-ended in about a year + ago. I have a winter jacket, but it is for colder weather, and is a nice one I just don't to use everyday. I found a basic Fruit of the Loom for $10...and in my size even! It's not often I find clothing in my size and the standard box stores!

After there, we went to Fry's Grocery, for the gift cards. The 2x fuel points is nice when I get these all at once. I saw they now have Little Ceasar's Pizza cards, so will have to come back to stock up on them sometime. We eat from there often enough getting the fuel points would be an added bonus. I was going to buy a bottle of Crown Royal as well, so I would have the purple bag it comes in to use for the Santa Run (to hold candy canes, etc) but for some reason, they were out of it at this store. I figured there were enough people like me was the reason. Rather drink through the holiday versus celebrate it. I kept it limited to a small number of cards, and modest amounts applied to them.

I'm really starting to get hungry by this point, as I had skipped lunch. It had to be about 2pm. Next on the list was the 99cent store. It is never good to go there when you are hungry. Ended up getting a full cart of things, mostly food items, though I forced myself to limit the number of Snacky foods I picked out. Of course the Wife picked up several items for the Stocking Ball we started last year. It's a fun (and cheaper) way to do the stockings now that the kids are all older. Basically you take a roll of plastic wrap and start wrapping it in a ball, add in treats, small prizes - whatever fits. Last years was a bit bigger than a basketball when done. The kids rolled a die to find out who started, and one starts "unwrapping" the ball, being able to keep each item as it falls out. While he is doing this, the next in line is rolling dice to get a pair of 'snake eyes', which the person unwrapping has to stop. It gets to be humorous to watch (for Mom and I) and the kids really love it. In fact, I had to ask the youngest (playing on the computer next to mine) what the procedure was for the "game". He got excited about it. Anyway, there were some more items for under the "tree" gotten there as well. I didn't make it through check-out. My back was bothering me, and the Wife was kind enough to tell me to go sit in the van and she would finish up. She's too good to me!

It's after 3pm by this point. I'm tired. I'm hungry. I'm thirsty. I groan thinking we still have to carry all of this into the house yet. But one last stop to be made. Quik Trip. I had brought my refill mug - 52 ounces of drink. Then I grabbed a couple roller hot dogs, some cigarettes, and out the door on the way home we were. Managed to unload it all in three trips, thanks to loading up the bags along the arms like 10 at a time. Thankfully none were over loaded or too heavy.

I checked with the Wife about how easy accessible the wrapping paper would be in the storage room, and we should get some out so I could start wrapping on Sunday. As I was waking up, and groaning, I realized we forgot an important item yesterday - tape. I will see if the Wife will run out and pick a few dispensers of it at the drug store. A little more expensive than say Big Lotsa, but at least has more than 6 pieces per roll.... and sticks better. then maybe I can get some wrapping done. The packages I ordered are starting to fill up the footwell of my desk, not leaving me much room.

So, barring one gift I need to get yet, I believe I am done shopping for the holiday. A nice feeling. Usually it goes until near the end of shopping ability to get it done. I'm happy it is done.

PeacE

What a Waste of a Day...Sorta

 Yesterday was almost a waste of a day off work for the oldest Son. He showed up before 8am, following the plan we were going to take his car in to the shop to fix the window issue. I was diligently at my desk working. Turns out they weren't sure they could even look at it that day (he wouldn't be able to leave it, as he needs it for work). On top of that, they were going to charge him $250 just for the labor to even look at it. I kinda understand that, after watching the video of basically taking the whole door apart. He called another garage. They told him up front they don't really work on Hyundais, and it would take them longer than a day to have the time to get to it, then order the parts needed. So, in short, it isn't getting fixed anytime soon. I am going to try in the meantime to find someplace that does windows for Hyundais and see what they charge. Maybe on his next day off we can get it in - if I find a place.

By this time, it is nearing 10 am, and he is sitting with his Mom. I check on them about once an hour, and they are just chit-chatting about stuff. I can't join because I am working. Come afternoon, it is decided to replace his phone. It has cracked screen, and breaks in the casing. It also doesn't charge off the cord and he has had to charge it wirelessly for the past few months, but now it starting to not work properly at all. The Wife and he went to a Verizon store, and were told they would have to make an appointment, and that they were backed up currently to 2 days out. So they returned home. Another bust. It was finally figured out that there was a phone he was wanting, in stock at a different store location not too far away, and via the website we were able to order it to be picked up in store. Then they had to wait for the email saying the "order was filled and ready for pick up" which took a little over two hours. In the end, he did get the new phone, so one problem actually did get solved, though it took most of the afternoon for it to happen.

All in all, the Son spent several hours with his Mom yesterday. I know Moms like that... mine has said so before in her blog. I'm happy the Son got one issue resolved, and hope the other will happen soon as well.

This weekend is going to be a stressful one. I'm braving the stores (a very few) to try to get some of the last Christmas shopping I need to do. I hate wearing the mask, but will have to tolerate it in spurts. At least I have the trip planned down to maybe 4-5 stores, and most are not crazy with shopping crowds. Smaller stores are better.

Next week is the Santa Run! We had a head count at about 17 going this year. My brother backed out today (the wimp). Though, I suppose not wanting to catch anything while out, a week before he has a weekend with his grandkid, is probably a good idea. The oldest Son took his Santa suit home Wednesday to try it on to be sure it fits. I haven't heard if he has done that or not yet.

Work was interesting today. We ran out of the stock of documents we were going through about 10:30. I had grabbed one of the last ones, and was near completing it when my Team Lead contacted me about shifting me to an new task. Turns out they requested a few people from the project, for this next-level task, and told everyone else to log out for the day. It was said that everyone was to watch their emails, as with the 1st-level review being done, many would be moved to new projects, but it could take a few days (meaning no work). But I was picked to continue to the next level... apparently, I was told, because of the speed I am able to go through the information, pull out the pertinent information, and that I understood the protocols better than most. So now I am on a team with the Team Leaders, Quality Checkers, and a handful of others that were picked. Feels good being picked for my good work!! For now, it guarantees me some work come Monday, and from there who knows. Much depends on the meeting with the client (to be this weekend) to find out how they want to handle things based on what work has already been completed. I'm sure to find out more come Monday.

I worked late today (did a 9-5 versus my usual 7-3) and the Wife is out for a bit doing some errand, and grabbing a couple things. I was thinking of going out for a few beers with my buddy J, but he is going to hi nephew's game - where he believes they will lose sorely, so he may not watch the whole thing. It's almost 6pm and I am still sitting here in my pajamas. Kinda cool.....lounge in these all day while working..... But I should get dressed and meet up with my buddy.

PeacE

A Little Extra Time

 We went out to dinner last night in an early celebration for the Wife's upcoming birthday. She had received a free appetizer in her email for the local Texas Roadhouse and wanted to use it. It was nice as we had the chance for all three Sons to join us. The oldest had about a week ago had issues about a rear window not operating correctly. At first thought, it would be the window lift motor, but after hearing it, it sounded more like the lift connection was off, or broken. He came by yesterday )with Middle Son) and we went to take the door apart to see what actually needed to be replaced. It is a Hyundai, and I now do not like working on them. Once the panel was off, there was more to remove to try to figure out the issue. It got to the point we could not figure out to remove this steel panel to get to where we needed. So it all got put back together, and we went to check YouTube. It turns out that you almost have to literally take the WHOLE Door apart to get to the area we were trying to see. Instead, this morning, he is coming back over and the Wife will run him to the garage and see if they can fix it today. It is just too complicated for me in my limited abilities and time availability, to do.

So I get some extra time today with the oldest Son, as he waits for the car to be done. The middle Son said he would be by tomorrow morning after his night shift tonight, to play on the computer and hang until the local 99cent store opens. He has a list of things he wants to pick up  and they don't open until later in the morning. So tomorrow I will get a couple hours with him.

Then I won't see either again until Christmas most likely. Correction. I will see the oldest on the 12th. He is participating in a our yearly Santa Run, where a bunch of guys dress up in Santa suits and travel to a handful of pubs in the area, handing out candy canes and good cheer, whilst having some drinks. He drove for us last year, but has a suit this year and becomes a full member.

The good part is/was, the time that we got to spend with them last night was good. The bits of time coming up are good as well. Makes me a happier person!

PeacE

Work Day Blues

 I was a bit bummed after our daily meeting in the mid day regarding work. Seems the project had been slated to end at a later date (Dec. 11) and yesterday they started talking about cutting down the number of people on the project. It makes sense, to trim the numbers and slowly place them in other projects, as the work load dwindles down. Maybe I'm just apprehensive about it. They did say those that were better would be kept on this project longer. But I don't know. I think it is just nerves of getting started into a new project. Something I will need to get over if I am going to stay in this line of work.

I woke nine minutes before the alarm went off this morning. I hate that. Usually I would just lay back and try to snooze, but this morning the bladder was demanding attention. As I walked to the bathroom O noticed a light coming from under the study door. It was the middle Son. He had stopped by to play some on the computer after his night shift. Neither of them have a computer at their new place (but have 3 other game stations to play). We had told him he was welcome to come over and play when he wanted to.

Not much to say today. I don't sermonize (ha RM!).

PeacE