The End of 2022

 This is the last day of 2022. I try to think back over things that happened thia last year, good or bad, and realize more and more, the older I get, it seems time just passes by quicker each year. I see my children (and grandchild) growing from the babes I remember just holding in my arms 'yesterday'. What are some of the good and bad I recall from this past year....

- January: yeah, no major memories. We had gone to a friend's house for the NYE celebration and were home by 1-1:30am.

-February: celebrated the 17th birthday of the Youngest.

- March: Nothing specific I can recall.

- April: Had my car accident. Totaled my 2021 Rav4. Bought another 2021 RAV4.

Yeah. Trying to recall by month is just over-working my brain. There were birthdays for all the kids (and Doodad) plus the Wife and myself. Holidays that were really good when we were all able to get together. A few trips to visit Daughter and family. A few other random memories of fun times.

Seem to recall griping (with the Wife) about certain prices and the political state of the Nation quite a bit. Of course, that does no good. And the election this year seemingly does not help my state get any better. Enough politics.

OVer all, was a better year than 2020. Here's to a good 2023.

PeacE

When the Weather Doesn't Cooperate

 I wrote the other day about getting out and doing the forced lawn maintenance. Well, as it turns out, it rained after I posted that. All. Day. Long. So nothing got done. Then I planned on maybe yesterday, the sun would come out (AZ is always sunny, right?) and dry up enough of the damp that we could do some of the trimming or something. Nope. Cloudy and not much sun. As of last night, the forecast was saying possible showers in the early hours this morning, and looking out the window right now, it is dark enough that it appears overcast, so not sure if anything can be done in the yard today. That leaves teh weekend. Joy.

I am in a good mood this morning though, except not being able to get the yard done. I opened up the pajama set (Washington colors, baby!) and put them on last night. They fit wonderfully, and are sooooo comfortable. In fact, I'll probably wear them all day today.

Still working on leftovers from the holiday. Most of the cooked ones are gone, and just working through the deli meats at lunchtimes. The Daughter had sent some pickles she made (spicy) that I have yet to try. Also a jar of her spicy salsa. I opened it yesterday, and had my mouth burning for like an hour. And that was just a small number of chips. RM's salsa is not that hot, but I can't get it eaten before it goes bad. That may happen with this hot stuff.

Welp, not much else to write about far as I can figure.

PeacE

Recovery Time Was Needed

 It is the VERY wee hours of Wednesday morning (read 12:15am) and I am awake. I went to bed around 9 last night, and up just before midnight, wide awake, and not feeling tired. So up out of bed and into the office go I.

I haven't posted since Sunday, mostly because I have been in a sort of recovery mode. Much food was eaten (explained later) and I have just been feeling worn out from more physical activity than I am used to doing. Which in its own way is very good for me, it is bodily titring as it is not a regular habit my body is used to.

Christmas day started well, as you saw my short post. I did end up napping in bed until around 10am, then just couldn't lay there any longer. I woke the Wife to get her started on her "stocking ball" (candies/little knick knacks/toys wrapped into a large saran wrap ball). I wanted to start loading around 11:30. I went into the office and proceeded to watch "Top Gun Maverick". I stopped it at 11:30 - right as they were starting the "run" for the mission. The Youngest and I loaded the car... and loaded, and loaded. I really thought we did not have the number of gifts this year, but there it was. Thankfully, earlier in the week I had dropped off a bag of gifts at RM's for more room.

We arrived at the older Sons' place around 12:15 and unloaded 99% of what we brought. Not only were there presents but we brought most of lunch, and some other things to do (games for prizes, etc). Daughter and faily made it up around 1:30, and so we ate some lunchmeat sandwiches woth chiops and some veggies on the side. Then it was stocking ball time, and a game or two, followed woth the gift handout and opening. I think everyone was very happy with all the gifts exchanged - I know I scored very well with many food items like beef jefky. The Daughter also made some spicy pickle spears and a small jar of salsa for me. The Wife really liked the mini-chainsaw (she asked for it) and the Suns jersey I found for her. Around 5 we all packed our vehicles respectively, and rode across town to Sin City (I mean Sun City) to finish the evening with RM & PT.

RM only does stockings for her actual children, so the Wife and I did ours. I got quite a bit of small packages of different trail mixes, and energy bars (which I love to snack on while working), small water flavors, and a couple other things. Then we did the gift exchange. RM always says she didn't buy much, but I felt there were many, many things. I loved my T-shirt she got me, and I was really surprised by the insulated Purdue cup, and the Washington NFL pajama top/bottoms set. But my finale' present was a big basket of goodies: jerky, pickles, energy bars - I haven't even completely gone through it yet - and it had a label for 'Ralph's Snack Basket". Plus I got a quart of RM's home-made bread 'n butter pickles as well. Dinner followed and was absolutely filling, and I ate too much. Barbecue ribs, corn slaw, rolls, mashed taters, followed with a dessert of turtle pie and vanilla ice cream. Oh, I was so full! Shortly after meal clean-up and the dividing up of leftovers, we departed for home, I think it was around 9ish when we got home, unloaded and finally able to sit down and take a breather.

I slept good that night. I spent a couple good quality reading moments in the little room the next day. I feel like I am still giving up some of that huge dinner from Sunday. In a way I guess I am... we did get some ribs, corn and rolls for leftovers, and I have been slowly depleting the stock. I haven't touched (much) of my snack stuffs - though have had a stick or two of jerky. Trying to make it last.

This week I need to run to Lowesd and get a leaf rake. I guess we don't have one. Then need to rake part of the front yard from the smaller limbs from when we took down the dead tree in front. Then I need to get it mowed. I guess some asshole in the neighborhood reported to the city my grass was over 6 inches (not all over, just in a couple spots) so it has to be taken care of before the 2nd. Hopefully I can get the Youngest to help. I might do that run to Lowesd this morning and get raking if I don't end up back in bed.

So now you are all caught up, and I have run out of topics to share.

PeacE

Merry Christmas

 I'm awake and out of bed - for the second time this morning. The first one was around 530am, and only for about an hour, before I forced myself back to bed for rest. Today is going to be busy, so should rest while I can.

Around noon we will head over the the older boy's apartment for lunch, and await the Daughter and family to arrive. some sandwiches to hold us over until we go to RM's in the evening for dinner and gift exchanging. Then home. I am sure I will be exhauseted by then.

Hope you all enjoy your holiday.

PeacE

A Better Morning

 The back is feeling slightly better today. After doing my PT exercises, swallowing too many pills for pain, and just trying to NOT aggravate the back, it is finally starting to return to normal. I might be walking normally by Christmas. And, I figured my BP counts would be higher than usual due to the pain factor, but yesterday was the lowest BP and Glucose count days I have ever had. Weird.

So, I mentioned I had finished up what I considered to be my portion of the Christmas shopping on Tuesday. With the back hurting, I have not gotten around to wrapping those things - so today will be that day. I verified with the Wife that we had tape, and where it was. She also delegated met o wrap another shopping bag of things. I hate wrapping. If I didn't refuse to give gifts at most holidays, I would invest in a gift bag company. Or better yet, maybe I should get gift cards from now on. 

The back is hurting enough that I am not able to do the Santa gig at the Wife's work this morning. So last night, she dug out her Mrs Clause outfit, and I guess she is going to fill in for Santa. I didn't ask, because I didn't want to know. It was not a paid event, as I do it for volunteer work only. I feel bad enough I am not able to walk well enough to do it, but now she is "covering" for me....<growl>.

I have no idea what tomorrow will bring. My football team plays tomorrow afternoon, and I am thinking about heading to the pub to watch it. The Wife will be working on gift wrapping most of the later part of the day (hopefully not through midnight). Sunday is Christmas, and I don't believe our family is getting together until closer to noon. I think the Daughter & family won't be up until probably 2'ish. I should check withe her and find out. Then that evening we will join RM & PT for dinner and gift exchange at their house to round out the evening.

I'm kinda sitting here, looking at the "pile" of gifts I need to wrap - the ones I bought - and O think about what RM has been saying the past few days. I mean in regards to her worries if someone likes the gift she gets them or not, and how it is 'the thought that counts" versus the gift. I know most of the gifts I bought were things I was told that had requested - maybe not quite the style, but still. Some were not even asked for, but I had thoughts behind them. Then there are the gift cards of course. I really don't care if they like it or not. Be happy they are getting something, is my thought. Personally, I have become to dislike receiving presents more and more as the years pass. I don't know if it is a 'guilt' because maybe in my opinion the gift I received has more value than what I gave, or if it is I have to like it because it was a gift. I'm not saying I get things I don't like (well, that happens to all of us) it just makes me feel uncomfortable.

The Wife should be finishing up getting ready for work. I wonder if she is wearing the outfit, or taking and changing. Either way, waiting for her to leave. I'm going to cheat on my food stuff and head up to Jack in the Box for a breakfast meal and a large soda. Been craving soda quite a bit the last few days. Maybe the Middle Son will remember and get me some Mtn Dews for Christmas.

PeacE

It's Back (Again)

 Tuesday, I woke the Youngest and we went out to "finish shopping" for Christmas. I grabbed a few last items I needed, and he picked out some things for his Mom. All in all, I thought it was a good thing, and add in that I was getting some more exercise than normal with the additional walking that we were doing. Well, that was not the right thing evidently. I woke yesterday with my back hurting. Seems the walking and who knows what else I might have done wrong, my disk has started to slip again. Several times I spent doing the exercises the PT had me do years ago, and which I do everytime this happens. Usually within a day or two, it starts adjusting back to where it needs to be, but today I ain't feeling like it is. I am suppposed to play Santa tomorrow at the facility where the Wife works, but I told her yesterday I may not be able to, since I can hardly walk. She had texted back that they could whell me around ina  wheelchair. I didn't respond - not knowing if she was serious or joking.

So today is day two of exercises and acetaminophen. Laying doen is fine, as long as I don't roll over, or twitch. Sitting ina  chair is fine, until I need to get up and walk around. I'll probably end up in my oiffice chair, watching shows through the day. Maybe a little Warcraft.

It's no fun feeling like this....

PeacE

Why Bother the Teen?

 This morning found me wide awake at teh first going-off of the Wife's alarms. I quickly got out of bed to have use of the facilities before she would rise 30-45 minutes later. I was in dire need either way. Then I wandered into the office to sit at the computer. I decided to look at what new possible ARC of books I could find. I had not looked in a couple weeks, so thought I should. I did put in request for about 3-4 books, though if I am lucky, at least one wil lallow me to read it.

Speaking of reading, I just loked at my reading goals. I have finished 263 books this year - goal was for 200. Granted, as I looked through the list of ones I have read this year, many were what I would call short. These are the ones I can easliy read 1-2 of them in a day. Those long-series of serial-type books? You know what I mean. I have one series that has 62 book sin it (currently on book 50) so have a few more of them short ones to read yet. But mix in there some fairly longer reads that take me a week or more. Good stuff for the most part. I only recall a couple I had to mark down as did not finish, or that I just didn't like.

And it comes to today's post title. I am debating on waking the Youngest, to take him out shopping with me. I know I need to stop at our local Fry's Food to get gift cards. They have a good selection, and get 2X the gas points there as well, since the Wife uses them. I know I need at least 3 VISA cards, and a couple more for like fast food (for the two older boys). Depending what else is there, may do more. The Youngest needs to select some things for his Mom, and mentioned a couple ideas. If I can get him up, we will run to Walmar probably to select what he is thinking of. Then, as part of the bribe to get him up, may take him to lunch. All depends if I can get him up.

I'm supposed to dress as Santa this Friday for an event at the Wife's employment. I guess it is for a portion of the patients there, which most are elderly. I think she mentioned that staff was giving out presents to them as well, but I just have to be in the prescence I guess. She still has not confirmed what time, so who knows what will happen. It's at least a good 30 minute drive away, so hopefully she remembers to get the time.

Welp, not much else to do right now. It's only about 8:20 and no need to try waking the kid at least until closer to 10. I know he was up on the computer playing games until late, after all , he is on break from school.

PeacE

Second Morning

 Yesterday was a day of joy and sorrow. HAd a good morning watching Detroit win, watching Dallas lose in overtime, and had some time with a friend that is in state for the holiday. The Wife even let me take her out to Golden Corral for dinner. After arriving back home, that's when I got the phone from the Oldest Son. His car had been stolen from his apartment complex. He was calling to ask what should he do. Of course, he's calling me because it has happened to me a couple times in the last 30 years. I told him to call the non-emergency police line, get them out there to do a report, then get on into work. Not much else you can do at this point.

This morning I woke up around 2:30am. I tossed/turned in bed for a good hour before finally getting up. The Oldest Son had asked that I give him a ride home from work, and thought he would done near-abouts 4:30am. He finally called so I went and got him home. We talked a bit more about what his options are right now, and I gave advice on what I think he should do. Mostly I told him to just get some rest, de-stress, and move on for now. There was not much of any major value in the car, other than the car itself, and that can still be replaced. I know he is just upset at the feeling of being victimized and having something personal stolen from him. I went through that as well.

So back home I crawled (fell?) back into bed and cat-napped until the Wife's alarm had gone off four or five times and she finally got up for work. So, second morning, now that I am awake and up again. I am sure I will see a nap later today.

No news on the work front. Even if a project got started this week, I would pass on it for now. Trying to be available for the Son if he needs a ride, or they find his car, etc. That, and wrapping of presents needs to be done (I hate doing that) but trying to help out with it all. Still need to get out to one store for a few gifts yet as well.

Guess I should get something done.

PeacE

Miracle? Or Just Recovery?

 Hmph. Last night's 4th Annual Santa Run seemed to be beset with problems from the get-go. About two hours from "go time" I get a text from one of the guys, that he can't find his Santa suit. Not my problem - I didn't put it up last year. But no suit - no go. I suggested he run to Party City ( a store) and see if they have any cheap ones he could buy. He never showed for the run. Out of the signed up 22 persons (guys) only 17 actually showed up. Not a bad ratio in my figuring, but my buddy who co-sponsors it was a bit dissappointed.

Overall I had a good time. The Oldest Son and I got to hang out and talk about "guy stuff" and catch up on just life in general. Yeah, I may have had a couple too many, but woke this morning at 9:ish feeling fine. No hangover, just that strong desire to relive an overloaded bladder. I was there for awhile. I had made no plans for this day, more specifically this morning, as I did not know how I would feel..

Just got a text from my football buddy that he will not make it to the pub for the games. Of course I told him last week, I would probably not be there this week, but actually I will head up there shortly. I guess he has a 'bad cough' (his words) and he is kinda weird about when he is sick, or being around others when they are sick. It's fine. I'll catch up with him next week.

Alright. I gotta go take care of a  few things then I amheading to the pub to see if my Redskins can beat the Giants (tied 2 weeks ago). And I am taking my tablet to do some reading as well.

PeacE

Time for the Running of the Santas

 Whew! I am up early! The Youngest has a call-time of :am at the band room,  and he actually woke me around :am as he was getting in/out of the shower. I waited until the Wife's alarm went off (to wake him, though he was already up) and told her she gets to take him since she had on more clothes than I (she had on pj's). Before they left she came back in and grabbed an old flannel jacket of mine, as she said it was 35 out this morning. I hinted I wondered what is open at 6am for breakfast besides Dennys and McDonalds. Will see if she got the hint and picks up a breakfast from Wendys of JitB. I'm kinda hungry sitting here this morning.

Youngest came in the office here this morning in shorts and a T. I asked if he was going to be warm enough, and he said once they have full uniform on, and the marching, he'll be warm enough. I remember my days back in Junior High in Frankfort, marching in the Christmas parade, in the snow. It was so cold! At least I was playing a plastic sousaphone and not a brass one, or a brass tuba.

Santa Run is this evening. I texted with the Oldest Son last night, and I guess his friend is not going now. Something about having some teeth removed in the last week, and not sure that things have healed up enough that he should be drinking. Wuss. Oh well. More time for my Son and I to talk. I will spend a portion of today getting things together. I have got 200+ candy canes to throw into the Santa bag. I also bought some fur-trimmed boots to use with my suit rather than the 'shoe-covers' that come with it. I need to run by the bank yet at some point and get the money out for this evening as well.

Think I heard the Wife come home. Gonna go see if she brought breakfast - though I doubt it.

PeacE

Edit: The Wife did NOT bring breakfast. So around 7:30 I told her I needed food to get rid of my morning sick feeling (from meds) and I would take her to Ronnie's. She was all for that. Now back home and getting the candy canes all together. Unpacked the Santa suit (the bar one) and my new boots I ordered to go with it. Now killing time until this evening. Definitely will nap at some point.

Holiday Break

 The Youngest finished up the last of his finals yesterday, and is now officially on holiday break. He won't return to school until January 4th.

My work project ended up reaching completion yesterday. So a project that we were told was going to last three weeks, ended up only being about a week long (7 days in total over two weeks). So no nice paycheck, and no work through Christmas. They said that we would be noitified this next week for a new project, but I don't know what I will do. I may skip it just to have time to get whatever needs doen for the holiday, then get on the next project. I haven't decided.

RM made a gripe (observation? wish?) about Christmas and us kids. She 'wished' that we would tell her what we really want, as she feels that we will be disappoionted with what we actually get. I know we are not young children and make lists for Santa anymore. Plus being adults, we buy what we need/want versus waiting particularly for Christmas. I told RM the same I do every year. I want beef jerky. I like it. I enjoy it. There isn't much else I could think of 'wanting' for a gift. I have mentioned I like T-shirts with sarcastic sayings. I also like T-shirts that are blank - preferably grey- but like the Hanes tag-less ones you buy in packs of four. I go through shirts quite a bit - especially in the sweaty summer. But I know how RM feels. I have the same issue with my kids, who all are adults, except the Youngest.

I think this next week will be spent on wrapping the presents I had ordered online and that have come in. I believe all my orders are here now. After that, I amy check with the Wife and try to get some of her stuff wrapped - just so we are not up til 3am Christmas Eve.

One more day until the 4th Annual Santa Run - where no running is involved, but lots of beers are. Youngest is marching with the HS band in the Fiest Bowl Parade tomorrow morning. That's kinda cool. Three hours of marching - no, not so fun. But at least it will be 40's-50's tomorrow instead of lower, or worse, raining/snowing/sleeting.

Guess that's all I got today.

PeacE

A Christmas Wish That Won't Come True

 From the previous post, I struggled the last 30 minutes of the workday yesterday, before they finally said there was no more work for the day. Followed by a note that there would be more for today, but the project was ending this week, and we would be placed into another project next week. What happened to the 1-2 weeks this one was supposed to last? Sigh. Sometimes this Company can be irritating. I could quit, but do not know the likelyhood of finding similar type of work in a quick way.

So, I notice I am first one to sign in this morning, see there is no additional work, leave a message for the Lead. Immediately some work appears, and within 5 minutes, I am doen with it - and no other work has come along. Sit and twiddle. Sit and twiddle. Patience is not my virtue.

Guess I need to figure out what I am doing today (or not doing).

PeacE

Need Cheese With This Whine ....

 Yuck. I'm not a big fan of cheese by itself, unless it is like a grilleed cheese sandwich. But aside from that, I'm just in a whiny mood this afternoon. Work resumed at noon yesterday, which is a good thing. And I was busy until about 45 minutes ago. Now I am waiting for them to compile parts of the workload, so I can continue working. In the meantime, I twiddle my thumbs and wait. Only an hour until I can end the day, but sitting here doing nothing for that hour is just... a waste.

The 4th Annual Santa Run is this Saturday night. Since my buddy and started this event, it has grown a little each year. I think we had 15 guys the first year, and our token reindeer - my Oldest Son was our DD that year, as he wasn't old enough to imbibe with us. He has made every year after, and again this year I am looking forwardd to an evening of hanging out with him. This year he has a friend coming along as well. My brother is going (yee.haw.). Our numbers have swelled to 22 this year, with one more possible. Thanks goodness we have the party bus that sits 25.

I just checked in on workload again. Still nothing. Sigh. I guess I need to be the squeaky wheel and message the Lead that I need work to do.

PeacE

Another Pair of Eyes

 Saturday, the Wife and I slept in. Well, sorta. She got up and ran the Youngest to the school around 7:30 as the band was marching int he Glendale Hometown Christmas parade, then having a band party afterwards at the school. Then she came back to bed. We ended sleeping til after 11am. I woke hungry, so suggested one of our faves, Ronnie's Cafe, for a late brunch. But when we got there, we could find a parking space at all. So I decided Black Bear Diner, and headed that way, only to turn off enroute at The Place. It had been awhile since we had ate there, so it happened. Their menu seems to have gotten shorter since Covid-time, but the service was great! It seemed every few minutes a waitstaff (not just our own) came by asking if everything was okay and if we needed anything.

Back home afterwards, with a trip to Walgreens to pick up another of my prescriptions. This time around it was another 100 lancets. About three days ago, Walgreens acalled me about a free service they have, to save me time, by combining all my 'scripts' to be filled and ready on one day, so I don't have to make multiple trips. The lancets and test strips they said would go to a 90-day refill for the same date. I guess this last one was  just before that call, so I went and got it. I have about 250+ lancets and about the same in test strips right now, but I only test once a day. Glad they are going to 90-days (they both come 100 each time).

Anyways, whilst in Walgreens, the Wife roamed th aisles hoping a Christmas idea for someone would jump out at her. I picked up the script and the reading glasses caught my eye. My regular glasses are bifocal, yet while working at my computer, I have to use the reader part, which means my head is craned back a good part of the day while reading the screen. I thought maybe some "readers" would help. So I tried to gauge the distance and letter size whilst trying on different strengths. Found one I thin kis pretty close and went ahead and bought them. Trying them out last night, they seem to work much better than my regular glasses. Now I know the strength, I'll pick up a couple side pair at the dollar store and keep this pair for last minute.

It is Sunday morning, and I woke fairly early - 7:40'ish. Tossed and turned a good portion of the night, having weird dreams of a dragon trying to kill me. Too much playing Warcraft probably. But I will be back at that this afternoon as I try to get my character up to level for raids that It hink start this week. This morning I will be headed up to the pub to watch some football. Washington is on a bye week, but my buddy has his Lions playing so we will watch that. Have a hot pastrami from the kitchen there for a late lunch then back home.

I did get a text late in the day yesterday, from a number I did not know. They were saying they had lost two Santa's and needed a replacement quickly for today. Not know ing who it was I said I had plans today already (I did) and could not do it. Then aasked who it was. Seems my buddy had this person call them, to see if he knew anyone that could help and he sent them my number. I like doing Santa, but last minute for someone I don't know....eh.

Speaking of Santa, I went up to the VFW Friday night. I hadn't been up there in about a month. Of course, it was back in November I found out that they had replaced me as Santa for the kid's party, and had not even bothered to mention it to me. Yeah, I was a bit ticked off. But one of the other members was telling me the Santa they had wore fake beard (mine is real) and was tall and skinny. Definitely said this gut did not do a good job, and this guy telling me this, was one of the elves passing out gifts. He asked where I was that morning, and I told him they replaced me. He said a few choice words as well. Bureaucracy in the ranks of the VFW I guess. At least my membership is a lifetime and I don't pay dues, otherwise the cheaper than regular bar prices wouldn't matter.

Work was going good until Friday. We got done with some stuff faster than expected, and they are waiting client approval to go to the next step. Hopefully will be hearing by tomorrow morning.

Welp, I think I am going to get out of here and do some thingys on the Web before heading up for the football games.

PeacE

I was a bit Grouchy

 Last night, the Youngest had the school's 'Winter Concerts' for Band, Orchestra, and the two Jazz bands they have. He is in one of the Jazz abdns and the regular band. I did not want to go, but I did. I was grouchy. I was hangry. I was tired (mentally) from work that day. But I did go, and realized again why I dislike attending school concerts like these. The Jazz bands seem to like to have every musician play a solo on every song (slight exaggeration, but still), and the orchestra was so out of tune.... It's love and support for your child though. Plus RM made it, and iut was nice to see her.

This morning finds me up just before 6:30am ready to start the workday. I'm just taking a few minutes to write here as I log in to the many programs. I think the majority of this weekend will be filled with playing Warcraft, as I get my character ready for the Guild raids that will start soon. I'm pretty much done shopping for Christmas, just waiting on the Frys food stores to do the 4x fuel points for gift cards.

PeacE

Back to the Grindstone

 Last week I had finally gotten an answer to the email I had sent off to the Company. I had written about the numbe rof project starts I had been receiving, but was not credentialed/licensed to be able to participate in, and wondered had my name been added to the wrong recruitment list(S). The way I read the received reply, was that there was some kind of 'glitch in the system' and I was not the only employee having the issue.

What is important, is it seems to have been fixed, manually, and I start a new project today. Though, I se in my email this morning (again) another project start time/date that I am not qualified for. Today's project is expected to last a minimum of three weeks, but could last longer. I am totally okay with that. The longer, the better.

I am feeling much better now, thna I was last week. Whatever 'bug' that was bringing me down left Friday. I did end up going to the hockey game Saturday, and enjoyed the time. Though was upset about Purdue losing to Michigan, admittedly, I wasn't expecting them to win. Sunday morning came football, and of course, my Washington team ends their game in a tie. Monday was spent doing pretty much nothing, except signing up for this project.

Christmas shopping is still going on. I think it was Friday, the Wife, sitting behind me, messages me a picture of a mini-chainsaw. So I turn and ask her, is this a gift hint? Yes, she replies. So Saturday, while she was not around, I ordered her one. At least it wasn't tarps and a shovel. I still have a few presents that need to arrive (All say shipped now). I should go through and check the tracking for all this morning before work.

PeacE

This Ain't Fun

 I awoke this morning at 5am, to the sound of a bedroom door closing. That means Youngest Son as up - probably for a bathroom break. Then again, at taht hour, it could be Middle Son coming by after work, though I think he had taken this week off on vacation. Either way, I laid there in bed for about ten minutes before I realized that I Was not going back to sleep.

Sleep. I have done more of that this week than just about anything else. Thursday I was just miserable again. And this not being able to hold down food is getting annoying. The Wife cooked up a mixture of green beans, corn, rice and turkey last night - not quite a soup - and for once it stayed dwon, so with leftovers today, I may start getting lucky. I think it was a 'chop suey' throw-together from all the leftovers.

The other night, after talking to a friend, we were thinking about goin to the Grand Canyone University Hockey game against UNLV this Saturday night. I've met most of the team, and these college-boys are just super-nice people. Most are from North Dakota and surrounding states. But feeling the way I have been, it may not be a good idea. Once I have gotten far enough into today, to determine how I am feeling, will make a decision and call my buddy to confirm or cancel.

I was hoping to have a majority of the needed Christmas shopping done by now. Of course, that didn't happen. I am expecting several packages today, so will need to keep my eye out. I kno wI menitoned to the Wife a few days ago, things I had ordered in for whom, and for other ideas for those we still need to get for - but no answers from her. I guess we will wing it.

Welp, I think I will see about watching an episode of something on Netflix, then try to get some more sleep.

PeacE

Was It the Food?

 I became rather ill yesterday. I woke feeling fine, and had lunch around noon. IT was shortly after I started having some stomache pain, then joint and muscle aches, followed with hot/cold flashes. I managed to stay awake until around 4pm, then finally had to lay down. I ended up sleeping through about 7:30 that evening when the Wife got home. I menitoned I wasn't feeling good, and of course, she said she was making her turkey enchiladas that night. I did manage a small portion, about half an enchilada, then was in bed again. With all that sleep, I find myself awake now at 3:30am. Still feeling achey, still feeling sick to the stomach. I don't know what it is but it is laying me out for a couple days.

Not much else to write about. I started the Warcraft expansion yesterday, and got a good ways before I felt too tired/sick to play. 

PeacE

A Day of Readjusting

 Yesterday was a somewhat nice day. Was able to watch my Washington Team beat Atlanta in football. Continued on into the afternono watching some other games - none that I really cared about. For me it was more hanging out with a friend than anything else at that point. The later afternoon got weird as I the Wife texted me to check my brother's social media. Which I did, then texted him. He is having some family drama (Again). After a call from him letting me know what was going on (not that it really matters to me) I mentioned to him that he just cannot stop creating drama that no one wants to be a apart of. He just laughed at me. It truly is somewhat embarrassing at times, because he and his wife tend to publically announce all the crap. Sigh. As RM would say ... not my monkeys, not my circus. I did text RM and reminded her that I am the Good Son, and th Favorite. She basically just laughed.

Today I am trying to get some things readjusted. In regards to work, the past few projects that I ahve been asked to join have had a requirement that I be licensed in a state, and have passed the bar (attorney). Of course, I have not, and I should not be getting these type of project requests. I'll be sending out an email to make sure they are aware of this, and get their system updated/corrected so I am able to get projects I am able to work on. I know I am bored enough as it is.

Not much on my calendar for the rest of the day. The new Warcraft expansion is to release today at 3pm, and I am not very excited about it. Whenever a new expac comes out, there are more people pnline, doing all the "starting new quests, etc" that it is hard to compete with everyone. I usually wait a few days before starting the new material. I don't know if I will get that opportunity this time around though. The threee Sons and I belong to a particular Guild, and of course our Guild goal is to get through the new stuff, start doing the Raids. Previously I was not part of the Raid team, but have committed myself to doing it this time around. It will help keep me from going to the bar at least two nights of the week, plus spending some time with the Sons, even if it is online playing together.

I do need to make another trip to Walgreens. I have gotten a text the last couple of days that I have another prescription to pick up. I'll probably do that this afternoon so I don't have to try to fight online with hundredds of others to get the new stuff started.

PeacE

Saturday Shenanigans

 Maybe I should change that title to "What kind of trouble am I able to stir up today?" as that is sort of the mood I am in. Mischievous. A bit Impish even (though I am not a small guy). <Shrug> Will have to see what happens around me to see what I am able to accomplish.

The Wife and I met up with RM & PT for breakfast this morning. RM had texted me yesterday, if I wanted the leftovers from their Friday Thanksgiving meal they had with friends. I said sure, and decided we should meet for breakfast for the exchange of food. Good breakfast, and I could only eat about half of it. Then the Wife and went went on down the road to the discount grocery we like. Around $200 later, we were finally leaving. Yeah, most of that was NOT groceries. They had a sale on a gamer chair colored blue (youngest Son's favorite color) so we bought it for him for Christmas. They also had some Amazon Mystery boxes - where there are items in it, but no idea of what type/cost/etc. For $50 I told the Wife I feel lucky, and bought one. Our cashier mentioned she had bought four of them that she is handing out as gifts this year. I thought that could be cool.... but I feel lucky and I want to open this one. A few months ago I tried one of those sites that you pay, say, $30 for a mystery item, and they ship it to you. I was lead to believe it was a box (like today) but it literally was one item. That was a waste. This looks like there are multiple items in it, but it could be good air packaging. We will see later today. Maybe I'll luck out and get something I am able to gift.

Craving tea bad today. The discount store did not have any, except individual personal bottles, which I did have on the way home. I did pick up a couple half-cases of Mtn Dew flavors - there are like 4 flavors of "energy" drink, and I thought I could try/share them with the Youngest as he likes that sort of drink. But that will be a couple hours as I can't stand warm soda.

Not sure what this afternoon will bring. Maybe some Warcraft. Maybe the VFW. Maybe a good crap and a nap. Well, the crap is happening no matter what of anything else. Speaking of, I should close this off....

PeacE

Mystery Box Reveal!!!

There were quite a few items in the box, and overall I probably got the cost in items, though many I can't/won't use... but here is sort of a list (if I remember it all)

- 4 size 10 mens spinner rings - spinner is a chain design

- 4 some kind of mat to wipe your feet on  - door mat

- 5 XL black rayon dresses

- 4-5 mascara make-up stuff

- 1 nail kit

- 4-5 dog collars with Apple air tag holder (no air tag)

- 2 bicycle cleat sets

- 6 packages of balloons in Halloween colors

- about 6 packages of assorted Halloween decorations you hang

- 1 foldable baby bath

- annnnn-nnnddd onnnnnneeee Mariah Carey CD!

The stuff was packed in pretty tight. Not really much to give as gifts, but I will keep the rings, as it just so happens to be my size. The dog collars are for larger dogs, and I know a couple friends that have dogs I will offer to them. Even without the actual air tag (for tracking) the collars are seemingly thick and well-made. The mats... I may keep one, and hand out if anyone wants. Make-up and nail stuff will go to the Daughter probably, unless the Wife wants any. Decorations will probably get donated to a school, maybe the facility where the Wife works. Balloons, too, more than likely. The dresses - I don't know. Savers maybe? There might be a couple items I missed listing, but either way they aren't important. I think the rings, though probably fairly cheap, are the big win, as I figure they normally sell for at least $15 each ($60 total) so the box was paid for. The funniest part of it, was I think the Middle Son (who happened to be by dropping off the Youngest) was excited to open the box as I was! Best surprise was the CD... I mean, c'mon. Mariah Carey? I'm sure it is one of her older albums but I am not a fan of hers. At least it isn't that Christmas song she sings!

Back Into This World

 Last Saturday, the internet and phone line went 'out' at hour house. Not just temprorarily, and the Wife texted me about it ( I was out with some friends). With the ahole "system out (phones and internet) I knew it was a issue for Centurylink (our carrier) and that somewhere, lines have been cut, or knocked out of commission. Nothing I could do basically but wait. But I was able to get on my pphone and look for outages in the area and of course, it said there were none. It was Monday morning before I could call to try to get a tech out to find out what was wrong. Tuesday before a tech could be there. Sometime between 2 and 4, and they pushed that to the limit. I noticed three different techs from that company helping neighbors a few doors down from me, before my tech showed up at 4pm. I admit though, they were aboe to fix my issue within 15 minutes, and voila! Back into the world!

For four days we 'languisehed without internet services, and I never realized how much just myself rely on having that service. Sure, I work remote, but fortunately was between projects. But just to entertain myself, or watch shows/movies. Emails I could check on my phone. Even most of the social media I do, I was able to do from the phone. But I dislike using my phone for that, and the screen is small enough... I just don't like it. But I was slightly surprised how dependent I had become.

Yesterday was good day. We ( I should say the Wife) cooked the turkey and a green bean cassarole before we loaded to go to the Oldest & Middle Sons' apartment. There the three of them finished the other side dishes, and we then we sat to eat. There was a lot of food. With all the boys and myself having seconds, there was still leftovers, including half the 14# turkey. Wife split the remains of the turkey, and we left all the rest of the leftovers there. We spent much of the afternoon just talking and funning whilst playing games on the playstation or laptop. I had my tablet so I played a few games on there whilst in conversations. Missed having the Daughter and her family there, but did hear from her later that her day was good as well.

Today is Black Friday, and I have no plans of going out to the shopping areas. I
 know there is some shopping I still need to do, but I will do it online as much as I can. I am not even sure I want to look at BF deals at any sites today either...sigh. But how else shall I get the good prices? We will see. Supposed to hang out with the buddies tonight, but am not sure about that as of right now.

On todays good note: BP and Glucose are in the good ranges and I managed to read 4 books since the internet was down. I am up to 246 books completed this year (personal high) and still a month to go. But that reminds me, now that the internet is back up, I need to go write a couple reviews....

PeacE

A Little Bit of Slowdown

 The end of this week has been fairly slow. The Wife is slowly feeling better, even though she still kept me up most of the night with coughing. She returned to work on Friday, and says the ear drops are working well, and the pressure in the infected ear has been going away. Yesterday, and this morning, I feel a bit sick though. Some head congestion, though I am not blowing the messy sinus stuff, but the head is feeling some pressure. Some Vicks rubbed on the chest, and maybe a good nap today will bring things right.

Youngest has his State Marching Competition today. I don't think I will go. They are only going to be there for a short while, so why spend the $$ g\for an all day event, when I would have to leave within an hour of them playing, as the band is not staying all day.

Welp, I'm off to get some stuff done (read: surf the internet) whilst I wait the Youngest to get ready for me to take him to school.

PeacE 

A Day of Highs and Lows

 Yesterday morning started off as a regular day in the d00d household. The Wife took Youngest to 'zero hour' at school, then went on to work. I got up, a little later than planned (about 8am) and started my workday. A little after 9:30am the Wife calls, and asks me to come pick her up from work. Uh oh, that's not good. I sent off a quick email explaining a family emergency to my 'bosses' and headed out west to where the Wife works.

Monday evening she had not been feeling great (still, with the infections) and noticed her BP was getting a little high. Well, it spiked up bad yesterday, and she could not focus/function so had to leave work. Most of the rest of the day, I lether rest in bed, checking on her to see if she felt better, or wanted to go to urgent care, or something. Her doctor she usually sees was not in the facility yesterday (go figure) so that was a no-go. Finally about the time I need to take Youngest to his evening band practice, she agreed to go to the ER. 

After some time, we were finally admitted back to the ER area, and she was given some pain relief pills, and a dosage of BP meds to see if they could get her BP down to a better level. At one point I had to leave to pick up Youngest, but by the time I made it back to the ER, she was pretty much done. They did give her a 'script for some ear drops to help the ear infection - they said the canal looked pretty swollen, and the drops would work better than an oral medication. They did get her BP down, and today we will see if it will stay down. The Wife is to contact her PCP to see when she can get in (hopefully today).

So I had to email the 'bosses' again this morning, and just lightly explain I would need the next couple days off. Since we were nearing the end of the first part of this project, I said they could remove me, and just let Recruiting know I would be available starting next week for a new project. Today the Middle Son is coming over at some point this morning to drive me to get the Wife's vehicle from her workplace. Then of course, I need to be available to drive her to any appointment, and to fill the 'script she got last night. Thanksfully the Youngest doesn't have any extra practices and no 'zero hour' at school today, so I only have to get him up in time to get ready and catch the bus.

I'm tired though. Yesterday was loong, and being worried about the Wife's health took its toll. I know I was in bed by midnight, but was awake for quite some time after that point. Awake at 4am (thanks to Rusty, that damn cat) but was able to 'nap' until about 5, at which point I knew there was no more sleep to be had. Maybe I can get a nap in after getting the car later this morning. Or will it be later? Middle Son usually gets off work around this time (5:20am) and is only a mile away... who knows?

So if you are inclined, some good thoughts/wishes/prayers for the Wife to be feeling better would be appreciative.

PeacE

Let's Get to Stressing!

 The Wife ended up goping to urgent care on Friday. Turns out she has a sinus infection and an infection in her left ear, which I understand can be painful. Of course they prescribed some anti-biotics, which she picked up. Now here Sunday morning, she is feeling slightly better, and I am happy at least , she has woken in a good mood. I thought for sure the Youngest or I were going to be buried in the garden in the backyard yesterday. The Wife was VERY moody - I would say menopause, but I don't know.

It is Sunday, and that means football. I will be heading out in about an hour to go watch my team more than likely lose. But, I'm hanging out with a couple of my close friends so it is all good. Tonight is the 2-hour premiere of the new season of 'Yellowstone' that I have come to enjoy very much. I'm hoping I still have my brother's cable log in so I can watch it "live" versus having to wait a day.

Tomorrow is back to work. From when I left Friday, there seemed enough work to last thru Tues - Wed. Hoping to find out early if I am being considered for the QC work or not.

My counts this morning were good, well, for me. Glucose 152, BP 139/80. I'm feeling good.

PeacE

A Different Day

 Today is going to be a bit different. The Youngest is out of school (Veteran's Day) and the Wife came home sick yesterday afternoon. Last night her symptoms were cold-like, and she already knew she would not be attending work today. So She will be around the house today while I work. I'm not used to anyone being here when I am working, and I hope the distractions will be kept to a minimum. I have to jam out to my music while I work and we wouldn't want anyone in here trying to talk to me.....<smirk>

Not much else is going on. Looks like the project may possibly end soon, and I have not heard anything about keeping me on longer. It may be a few days early for that though.

I think I shall be playing Warcraft this evening. As of now, not in the mood to go have a couple beers - but that may chnage depending on how today goes...

PeacE

All Morning Long ...

 This post is going to take all morning, or at least a portion of it, to complete. I don't have much going on, and I am working, so there will pauses between thoughts...

... the Arizona election results are still being counted. Last I checked, it was saying 66% were in, and in both the Senate and Governor positions, Reds were slightly behind the Blues. I have a feeling, the Reds are going to lose, and that makes me sad. Have we gotten so many dumbasses from California moving here to make our state vote this way? <SMH>

... it is good to be working again. The time slot for this project was 7-10 (business) days, with a chance of extra time following if selected for QC work (for which I am qualified, but not selected as of yet). When I first started with this company two years ago, my first project was about 5+ months long. Wish we had another project that would last that long. Ever since then, it has been "two weeks" for the average, with time off work in between more often than not.

... the Youngest's school made it to the State Marching Band competition, which is coming up a week from Saturday. FINALLY this year they are having it hosted at a community college that is actually on my side of town, and not an hour and a half drive across the Valley. Actually, this year it is maybe 15 minutes to the location. Sweet!

...it has started to cool down from the 110+ summer we had here in the desert state. Lately it has been beautiful mid-70's days and 50's at night. I actually turned the heat on about three days ago, as I woke in the wee hours and was cold. A week before that, I had put a blanket on the bed due to being chilled at night. I still wake most days to find my feet/legs out from all the covers though. I guess it is just my core area that gets cold. This morning I actually put on some pajama bottoms (instead of the usual gym shorts) as it stays a little cooler in the 'office'.

...I went to the doctor on Monday. Spent an hour waiting in the patient room before she came in for five minutes. My cholesterol levels are in the good ranges, my A1C is in the fine range, and my BP is in the good area as well, so she let me go for six months until the next appointment. Then we will re-do the labs and see if the numbers improve yet more, or stay in the good ranges. Either way, I may be able to go a year between visits. I can only hope, as I hate having to go to at all.

Welp, I guess I done run outta things to share ...

PeacE

The End of the Fun Times

 Not that I was really have so much fun. But today I start back to work on a project (finally). I was really starting to go stir crazy being home all day, with no work to do, just surfing the web, and playing video games. What a life, right? Either way, it looks like this will keep me busy for going on a couple weeks, and with my extended experience, may carry over into a longer period. OF course, then after the end of this project, it may lead into another, etc. This past month+ I had been off was of my own volition, so I guess complaining would be worthless.

Nothing else new around here. Just waiting final emails to grant me access to work platforms from remote. I still have about 3 hours until I am supposed to be online, but they are usually quicker about getting me this info. I did get the 'official' email about 15 minutes ago that gave me the basic info about the project. So now it is just a waiting game.

PeacE

Making Plans to Sleep

 Yesterday pretty much wore me out, though it wasn't anything I really did for that to happen. I spent most of the day watching a couple football games with friends, then the Wife and I went out to dinner. I was in bed around 10pm, yet find myself wide awake at 3:30 this morning. I was planning on getting some errands done this morning, when places open, but I have a feeling I will be asleep, trying to make up for this morning's early wake-up.

Speaking of things needing to get done, I really need to get up to the cell carrier's store. I am due an upgrade, and I have been having issues the past couple weeks with my cell. Seems if it drops down to 40% power, it automatically will shut off and not restart unless it is has been charged for at least 30 minutes. Crappy Moto-X phone! Think I'll go with a regular Samsung this time. Oh, then the joy of transferring contacts, etc.... so not looking forward to that.

I was also hoping to get over to the 99 Cent store to get some more flavor packets for my water. If not there, somewhere I can buy some tea. For some reason I have been craving it quite a bit lately.

I was a bit displeased last night at the place the Wife and I had dinner at. It is a place called Longhorn, and is labeled as a 'steak place'. It is close to our house, which is nice. The Wife and I had ate there a few years back, and found it comparable to the steak places on either side of it - Texas Roadhouse, and Black Angus. Literally, these three steak competitors had restaurants right noext to each other! Of course, Black Angus went out of business some time ago, so now it is only the two, with an Outback on the other side of the freeway.

Anyways, this place looks 'poshier' than Texas Roadhouse, and the atmosphere is much quieter without all the singing/dancing from the waiters/waitresses. The menu is comparable to TR's, and is a little more procey, but sometimes worth it for the quieter atmosphere and quicker seating than the other place. So we are seated promptly, and get our orders in. They bring some complimentary bread/butter, where the bread was hard and cold, the bitter seemed to be frozen. When our meat dishes arrived the Wife found here's was rare (ordered medium) mine was medium (ordered rare) and we were only asked once about drink refills (at the time of them bringing the meat). I was quite dis-satisfied. I do get better table service and correct meal orders at Roadhouse, so I guess I am back to having to deal with the louder noises and dancing.

PeacE

Do I Got the 'Rona?

 I hadn't realized it had been pretty much a week since I last wrote. Things around here have been busy (to me) this past week.

Last Sunday we did get to have dinner with Daughter and family. I invited RM & PT, so they got some time with them as well. I know it made RM happy, and I was happy to share the time with them instead of 'hogging' them to myself. I was generous, as Washington won their game against Green Bay (that's what I say anyways). Youngest went back to a semi-regular marching band week: Tues night practice, early mornings, Friday night game. Add in the competition (on the other side of town, go figure) today. Thursday night one of my buddies took me to a Grand Canyon Univ hockey game. I know nothing about hockey, or next to nothing, yet had a good time. Afterwards, we went to the pub and it was college night, so the team showed there for some of the Halloween dress-ups. Friday night, whilst the Youngest was at an away game, the Wife and went out for dinner, then relaxed at home. Today she will be driving across town (a good hour) to watch the Youngest perform, but I don't feel up to it.

In fact, I am not feeling totally great at all. Yesterday, I woke feeling nauseous, and just 'out of sorts'. Nothing would come up, or out, and I skipped my meds just because I didn't want possible extra nausea. All day I felt like this, add in hot/cold flashes, cold sweats, and tiredness. I laid down for about an hour, no napping, but felt a little better, so still went to dinner with the Wife. After eating some food, I felt a bit better, but this morning am still not back to regular. I'm guessing a stomach bug, or flu variant. I am pretty sure it is not the 'Rona.

I feel like I have way too much to accomplish in a short time, and some of it I just cannot completely do myself. Our tree out front had died of unknown causes earlier this summer, and we were able to get it knocked down, and out of the ground. It needs branches trimmed down (and trunk) to about 4 foot lengths so they pick it up in bulk trash next month. Which needs to be done first, as the grass needs mowing, and trimmed, as well before some asshole neighbor "reports" it and the city sends out a notice of grass being too high (very personal peeve). I just physically cannot do it all, and the Youngest has been busy with school/band he has not been any help. Middle Son tries to help when he can make it over. Maybe this weekend we can get his help. Sunday may be able to get Youngest to help as well.

No news on the work front. Still waiting to hear of any new projects. I feel I may have to send a reminder that I am available, just to get their attention.

Have three books I was approved for this last week, so will be busy reading in my free time to get the reviews done. One was a book I kind of was hoping would be coming out soon, the other two were just a couple picks that sounded good.

PeacE

Been a Busy Week

 This week has abeen a bit busier for some of us here in the d00d household. It is Homecoming week, and the Youngest has had something going on almost everynight. Tuesday was practice, Wednesday was the spirit bonfire, Thursday was the actual Homecoming Game, and tonight he has yet another proactice. Saturday they will be going to Flagstaff for the NAU Band Day. Which the Wife and I are going to attend. She wants to 'get out of town', and watch her son perform. I am not a fan of her driving that far, and then the return drive late at night. So that means I am going as well..

Homecoming this week also for my alma mater. Tonight is their homecoming game, and over the past couple weeks I have seen many post on social media about alumni going to the game. I signed up as a maybe - only because I am not sure I want to go. Also there is a lunch today for previous band members that I was invited to go to, which I also said 'I would try' but am not sure about attending. I like the "feeling" of participating in the spirit of homecoming, but I just don't know if I want to deal with the crowd (like I'll have to on Saturday) and do I really want to see how old people I knew in HS have gotten? Granted, some of us have kept in contact since HS, but very few. It's 9am, so I guess I have a little time to make a decision.

Daughter's family is trying to make it up to visit this weekend. I already let her knwo we are out of town Saturday, but would be open for plans on Sunday - depending on what they have planned. Hoping to be able to have dinner Sunday evening before they head back.

PeacE

Break Time is Over!

 Well, break time is over for the Youngest. He returns to school today, and all the extra band practices, games, competitions. It was a bit weird last week, when he had a home game they had to play... on the Fall Break. I don't recall them ever having to do that before....

No news on the work front for me. I know part of the HR/Recruiting staff were on vacation last week, so hopefully with them back in this week, some projects will be setting up to bring people in on. Though I do admit, in some ways it has been nice being off the last few weeks, I am ready to concentrate on something and make a few dollars.

Didn't do much this past weekend. Stuman, my brother, celebrated his 48th birthday. His wife was out of town celebrating her birthday (earlier in the week) so brother invited several friend s to his place on Saturday. I did end up going, feeling obligated somewhat. Only a few friends showed up, and I was there most of the afternoon and into the evening. A lot of rain (for AZ) came Saturday, and really soaked the ground, so Sunday, the Youngest pushed over the dead tree in our front yard. It wasn't huge - about 6-8 inches thick in the trunk. But it was dead, and bulk trash is coming up here in a couple weeks. Need to finish getting it chopped down to size for pick-up.

No plans this week, unless a project comes along. I need to get up to Walgreens, hopefully today, to pick up a prescription they notified me about. I think it is more glucose test strips, but am not sure. This mornings readings were back int he better/regular range than some of the ones from last week. Gonna change that up now as I drink some Sweet Tea from Church's Chicken. Boy, is that sweet!

PeacE

Will They or Won't They?

 Thursday Night Football is happening tonight, and I have plans to meet my regular Sunday morning football buddies tonight for the game. Washington vs Chicago I think (without looking it up) and both teams are like 1-4 so far this season. Will my Washington Redskins (hate thinking them as the Commanders) win or not? Hard to say.

So Monday, I did a little online shopping for a new gas dryer. I checked a couple used appliance places, and the larger stores that have appliances. Lowe's came out aheaad with pricing, and though it was new, was reasonable. After the Wife got home, I went over what I found and she agreed, so Tuesday, the Youngest and I went to get one ordered. Turns out they did not have any in stock at the store, or the local distribution warehouse (even though on the website, it said they had them in stock. I had to pick another dryer, and of course, the next lowest in price was about $110 more than the one I wanted. Either way, a good half hour was spent of them getting it ordered for delivery for Friday, no install, no removal/pick-up of the old one (they charge for all that, but delivery is free).

The Middle Son came by Wednesday morning to help get the old dryer out of the utility room, and tells me it isn't a gas dryer, but electric. I go out and look, and sure enough. So another trip was made to Lowe's and refunded the cost for the gas one, purchased an electric one, set up delivery, etc. And I saved $130 because not only was the lower priced one available, it was on sale. So now just waiting on Friday delivery, then Saturday will be putting it in.

I did end up getting some iced tea the other day from the $1 store. I lucked out and they had the Gold Peak brand (my favorite) and I bought a couple quarts. Youngest picked out some soda he likes, then I threw in some salami for lunch sandwiches. I also picked up some pre-made salads to go with my sandwich for lunch.

That brings us back around to today being Thursday. The Oldest Son came by about 7am this morning. He had a package delivered here ne needed to pick up, and we ended up visiting for a couple hours. It was good to catch up like that. Upon leaving I told him I hoped to see him before Thanksgiving, and he replied he would try to get his scheduled cleared soon for a time for him and I to 'hang out'.

Nothing on the work front. I did get an email yesterday for a project, but it is if you are an Attorney. Our company does do some judicial doc review stuff, and that's when they need the atty. I am not one, but have been asked several times if I am from different managers at work. I guess my non-legal doc review/data review is good enough they think I was law school trained. Now that's funny!

PeacE

Monday Morning Downers

This morning has brought my crappy Monday feeling to a new low. I had a good day yesterday with some buddies (even though my team lost - again) and the Wife and I had a nice dinner out at Anzio's Italian (I had the antipasto salad and it was delish). Headed home, and again I was tired early so went to bed around 8pm. Woke up around 2am, and just could not sleep well the rest of the night. many wake-ups and roll-overs. Sweating and feeling hot (though it was a nice temp in the room). Then this morning, as I am doing my glucose and BPO readings, they are higher than I have seen them in the last six months. What? I've been taking the meds. I've been eating better/healthier. I've cut out a lot of sugars. But yeah, the numbers were a bit high today.

The Wife then informed me, as she prepared to head out the door to work, that when she went to do a load of laundry last night, the dryer decided to not work. Something about when she went to set the timer, it did not click at all, and the dryer would not turn on. It is quite older. I think the MIL bought it used several years before she passed away. So now I need to figure out what to do. I think I will end up over at a local used appliance place and see how much for a used one is. The cost for getting a tech out to look at the issue, then the fees for parts and labor are just out there - I know, I worked for an appliance repair company. And of course it is a gas dryer, so a little rarer to find. Looks like I will be tripping out either today or tomorrow.

I heard my email notification sound go off a few times last night in between my short naps, yet nothing in my email this morning regarding work. I was hoping to get out in the front yard today and see about trimming out some of the grass that has grown up into the rosebush and etc along the front of the house as it is starting to look pretty shaggy. With summer finally starting to cool off, it will be more bearable now to do it. But I admit, I just don't feel motivated to do it right this morning.

Welp, I've had my meds, and partaken of some ice cold water. I should scrounge around and see about finding something for breakfast (supposed to take some pills with food). I've a hankering for iced tea for the past several days, and it has not lessened today. I drank several glasses Saturday whilst at breakfast, and had several last night as well at dinner. Might have to go to the $1 store and see if they have any teas on sale, like AZ Tea, or Lipton in a  2-liter. But that constitutes going out in public, which I don't feel like doing right now. It'd be a couple hours til they open anyways. Maybe then I'll feel different.

PeacE

Sunday, Sunday Sunday!

 Another Sunday has happened along, and yes, I will be heading up to the pub to hang out with some buds to watch some football this morning. With DST in effect, here, the games start about 10am, so we usually start out with a couple Bloody Marys, loaded with some goodies to munch on (bacon, pickle spears, celery, etc). I'm sure today will not be any different than last week. I do have one bet that Washington beats Tennessee, so we will see how that goes. The bet is only for a beer (+/- $5 cost) as I am not a big gambler, and also do not have much faith in my 1-3 team.

Saturday morning had a wonderful time having breakfast with RM. She had mentione dthe Black Bear Diner for breakfast, and I had not been there for that meal of the day before, so it was a new experience. I had the corned-beef hash, and it was good... I picked at it until it was gone, even though I was full about halfway through the meal. Several iced teas washed it all down. Conversation was a little off at first, as we share enough basics in our blogs, it seemed there was not much to really catch up on, but eventually it went better, as we could be more specific and onto other details that maybe we don't share online. Overall, was a nice time.

Not sure what is going on this week. The Youngest is on school break. I probably will be contacting the Company and letting them know I am ready to get back to work, though I am not sure if they will have anything right away for me. I kind of would not mind a few extra days off, but it has been three weeks or so since I last was ona  project. Between my back getting better, and adjusting to the new meds/dosages, it is about time I get back to normally working. 

Speaking of meds, I am starting to wonder if they are working. I know certain foods store as sugar, etc, and I have been trying to cut sugars (soda, candy, etc) out of my diet, but even my glucose count is still showing higher, even with an added prescription. And my BP ... well, it is still pretty much in the same range as it was prior to increase in the script I take for it. Maybe some more time for the body to adjust to it... though it has been over a week - nearly two, since the changes.

I am up a bit early today. For some reason, I was in bed by 7:30 last night. I was so tired I could hardly stay awake. No idea why. I had gotten up for breakfast, and spent most of the day playing Warcraft, or watching social media, etc. I had not done anything streneous (like I would...lol). I did wake a few times during the night, but was able to fall back asleep. I finally woke/got up around 4-something. Thinking of going and lying back down to try for a couple more hours. Will see....

PeacE

"It Comes In Threes" They Say ....

 This past Sunday, the Wife received a text message from the Daughter. It seems both she and the SIL were feeling poorly (fever, feeling blah, etc) biut my Doodad seemed to be feeling fine. Later another text came in that the SIL had used one of the at-home Covid tests, and it showed positive for him. The curb-side testing was scheduled for the Daughter and Doodad for Monday. Monday I got a text that now Doodad was having a fever and not feeling well, and then later on, I got the text that yes, all three of them had tested positive for Covid. Sigh. The plan had hopefuilly been that they would be up to visit this next week while Doodad was on break, but that is now changed. Sigh. I do feel for them....

The Youngest's marching band competition went well. They placed third in their division (out of the seven bands there). Their next competition is a week from Saturday at NAU. Only another month and a half until marching season is over - and so are the extra night practices we have to be sure we are available to take/pick him up. Plus the Friday football games. I should be used to it, having had three kids do this for four years each, and this is the Youngest's third year. I'm happy to say, there is only one mor eyear left of it.

Saturday, RM and I plan to meet up for breakfast. She suggested Black Bear Diner, which is about halfway between our homes. I haven't beenthere in awhile, and before, it had generally been for dinners. I'm looking forward to seeing their breakfast menu, and time with RM, of course. 

Still dealing with adjustments to my medication changes. the end of last week showed me doing multiple express travels to the restroom. This week, that has resumed regular traveling speeds and necessity. I spent most of yesterday feeling nauseous, though not quite to the point of throwing up. I asked the Wife to bring home some Sprite to hopefully settle the stomach (it did). This morning I am feeling just a touch of nausea, but will see what happens since I just took my meds for the day. I do have some Sprite leftover just in case ... if it really helps with it.

I guess it is time to start trying to figure out Christmas stuff. We haven't had much of a chance to get presents early, though I know we have a few small items for Doodad. Seems we always find something to get her, and say for bday or Christmas, but end up just giving it to her because. I do have a couple ideas for the kids, that I will order this month to be sure they arrive in time. Others I will have to think of something. I'm sure Saturday I will be asking RM for ideas for her and PT, though each year it is usually the same stuff (PT-socks, sweatshirts, etc; RM nothing...as a rule). I know I am pretty much the same way - nothing for me. If anyone asks, I usually say beef jerky, or pickles, or similar.

That reminds me I have something for RM I will need to remember to bring Saturday morning. I could hold onto it until Christmas, but I picked this up a while back, and just haven't had the chance to get it to her. Just a little 'something'. I know when she reads this she will get a little excited, as she loves little unexpected gifts (don't we all?).

Welp, I got nothing much else to share at the moment, so guess I should mosey on and figure what I am going to do today. Think I might head to the VFW this afternoon depending on how I am feeling.

PeacE

Another Friday

 This has been such an uneventful week. I guess in some ways that has been a good thing. Wouldn't want cataclysmic events happening every other time I turn around.

Did the Doc appointment Monday. Everything went as I figured. Increased BP meds, added a second diabetic pill, ordered new labs. I finally got in and did the labs yesterday. They wanted a urine sample, too, which I thought was weird. I have never had to do that before for lab work. Sure, for job interviews, but this obviously was not job related. Shrug. I peed in their cup. Should here by the first of the week what the results are, and have a follow-up with the doc in early November. I'm sure the cholesterol pill will change in dosage at that time.

The Youngest has his first marching band competition this weekend out near Verrado - about 45 minutes plus away, way out on the west side of the valley. I haven't checked with the Wife if we are going or not. I know she likes to get to every competition she can - though I don't always go.

I had a chance earlier this week to have breakfast with the two older Sons. It was nice to take an hour or so and just sort of catch up with what is going on with them. I understand more and more why RM loves to do the same when I get a chance to ask her out. In fact, we are scheduled for next Saturday. I need to figure out what time and where we should go.

Having gone to Tucson last week, and attending the concert, I went to take the car through the car wash a few days ago, and found the Daughter's shawl/sweater in the backseat. I texted her asking if she was missing it, and told her I was holding it hostage until she brought Doodad up to visit. She of course responded she now had an excuse to go shoppping for another one.... but then later added that they might be up in October when Doodad is on break from school.

See how wonderfully drab this week has been? Maybe I can do better next week.

PeacE

Fresh Starts

 I have a feeling that today is going to bring about some fresh starts. I have a Doctor's appointment, and I am guessing a few will be stemming from that visit. Weird though, how my best glucose level, and probably BP reading was this morning, than I have had in three months... go figure.

I chopped it off. Well, more like buzzed it down with hair clippers. I have kept my hair short (near the scalp) for several years. Most of the reasoning was because I worked in a non-air-conditioned facility a good part of the day. Well, I left that job almost exactly 2 1/2 years ago, but still kept my hair short. The Wife has been nagging/asking/begging me to grow it back out to how I styled in my younger years. I tried. I gave it a go. So for the last two months, I've let it grown to about 1-2 inches. It was at that stage where it just sticks up all over, and no amount of gel is going to get it to lay down. It's still warm here in the Valley, and wearing a hat all the time is just not comfortable (or appropriate attire sometimes). I waited till she left, then buzzed it back down again this morning. Feels so much better!

I see I made it over my reading goal for the year, and yet there are three months left. I wonder how many I will end up with by 12/31....

Went to Tucson for the concert yesterday. Due to a mix-up, we were about 40 minutess late to the concert. I ain't pointing fingers, but someone didn't read the full name of the place, and we ended up at the wrong location. We did make it before the first set-break, and was able to enjoy the second half of the show. Made it back home around 10:30 I think it was. I was beat by then, after not sleeping well the night before. I was a bit surprised when the Wife's alarm went off this morning, that I had no recollections of waking during the night. Maybe that was why my readings were good this morning?

Welp, nothing much to do this morning. Appointment isn't until around 3pm, so got time to kill.

PeacE

A Little Bit of Quiet

 It's nice and quiet at 3:30 in the morning. Well, at least this morning it is. I have been sitting here at teh computer for the past three hours since I awoke and could not go back to sleep. I have caught up on my boook reviews I needed to complete. I've done a few searches for some possible ARCs to read/review. I've caught up on my emails (for now). Social media has been reviewed - atleast as much as I wanted to scroll through. The only options I kind ofhave left are play Warcraft, or watch some TV show/movie. Not sure which I will; chose once I post this....

Saturday was a good day. The practice Youngest had for band was cancelled, so we didn't have to rush anywhere and be somewhere at a certain time. The Wife and I ended going out shopping/running errands. I got quite a bit of walking in today - especially for me, and my legs were quite sore come evening. The walking is probably why I was in bed by 9pm as well, leading to the early hour wake-up.

Monday is my next doctor appointment, and I am a little (nervous? leery? apprehensive?) about going. Granted I just started going to the doctor again just around 6 months ago, and you know it may take a few trips to get medication dosages just right ... but I was just getting used to the new doc I was seeing. I liked him. Now he is gone and they assigned me to a new doctor - a female, but I told them it was no matter to me. I am sure the will be yet another dosage adjustment, and I am sure she will want new lab work done (test the cholesterol levels - see if that med is working). I am hoping she can switch me from Lis to Los on my BP meds, as the Lis has been giving me rashes. Then I hope she will just let me go for at least a year. With it being a new doc, I am sure I will get the regular speech about my drinking habits, my weight, my smoking, and who knows what else she will find to chastise me. Sigh. It is what it is. Shaming me doesn't encourage any change.

Later today we will be headed to Tucson for a concert. It is a group called Lo Bros, and this will be their final concert as a group together. We saw one of the shows last year, and it was nice. We bought four tickets and invited the SIL and Daughter to go. Part is early for her birthday this week. Then we will drive back home as I have the appointment, the Wife has work, and Youngest has school. Hoping to get a nap sometime this morning prior to driving this afternoon.

The back is not quite back to 100%, and it was bothering a bit more than usual after all the walking, which does not surprise me. I should be able to get through the shifts of sitting for 2-3 hours throughout the day with little discomfort.

I guess that leaves me without much else to say.

PeacE

I 'Quit' Work ...

 Tuesday morning was a tough one. I woke and realized that there was a problem. It hurt to sit up. It hurt to walk to the bathrrom. My lower back was definitely using my nerves to express displeasure for something... I can only figure I "slept int he wrong position" or similar, as to why it hurt so much. But I needed to get to work, so I took a couple ibuprofen (with the regular plethora of prescription pills) and sat down to the computer. For about five minutes. I didn't (couldn't) sit there long enough to log into the work system. I opted for email to the Project leaders, and explained I needed that day off due to medical issues, and that I should return the next day. I spent the rest of Tuesday, trying to relax on the bed, doing exercises from my PT after teh work comp injury years ago, and attempting to sit for longer perioods of time in the chair.

Wednesday I woke feeling better, but still not able to sit long enough to complete an 8-hour work day, even if I took several 30-minute breaks. Getting the discs in my back aligned correctly will take a few days. So again I emailed the Project Leaders, and removed myself from the current project. I also let them know I would contact HR when I was going to be available agin for other projects. Do I feel bad? Not really. I started this project being told it was only a week ling, and here we are a month and half later... add to that, this final stage was ending Friday or Monday, with Monday I needed off anyways.

Now it is Thursday, and yes, the back feels better. I'm still doing the exercises several times a day. No ibuprofen, and able to sit for more than hour now...so everything is slowly getting to where it needs to be. By Sunday, I hope it back to normal considering we are driving to Tucson, attending a concert, and driving back (about 8 hours probably in total of sitting).

The Daughter, our oldest child, will be celebrating her birthday next week. Hard to believe she is turning 31, especially considering the Youngest Son is only 16 and lives at home still. In some ways that makes me feel old, but I know that is only a mind-set. It's the body's aches and pains that make me feel old....lol!

PeacE

A Friday Post

 I'm tired this morning. Not for any one specific reason. I'm just feeling tired. Not sleepy. Tired. I don't know if it is just age, mental status, or what, but I'm just 'here' this morning.

Work is still going. Have been informed we are moving into another phase for this project, which by my estimation, means we will be working into the middle of next week. Not sure if it will be longer than that or not. Either way, it is still more work, and that is good. Especially considering this was supposed to be a week long project for me in the beginning. Now it's turned into a month, just because they are finally able to see that I know how to do more than they let me before. Did that make sense? I'm not even going to try to re-read it to see if it did.

We had pizza last night that I picked up on my way home from the pub. I was a bit irritated at them though. I ordered through the app, and they have where you enter the code and the door opens, you get your pizza. Well, they had put my order on the two lowest drawers/doors. So imagine my hefty, overweight self, trying to balance a cane, bend over to collect two pizzas. Needless to say, I made it about halfway upright before dropping one, face down of course. A nice guy stopped and picked it up for me, I told him to don't bother opening it to check on the pizza, I was so embarrassed already, and practically ran out the door. The pizza survived mildly, having only some of the toppings misplaced fromt heir original settings. I know they had no knowledge of who placed the order and all that, but c'mon! Every drawer above it was empty - why use the bottom ones if not necessary?

Welp, I should get on with what needs to get done.

PeacE

Another Late Night

 Going on about 1:45am here, and I find myself fairly wide awake once again. I have tried sleeping and gotten back up (so I would not keep the Wife awake). I have been messing around on the computer for the past hour or so, trying to tire myself out with anything that will make me tired. So far, nothing has really worked, though my eyes 'feel tired' my mind is wide awake. I even took some over the counter melotonin, as it is supposed to help make you feel a little more sleepy. Thos pills haven't worked any of the other times I have tried them either. Maybe I just need something stronger, but then I'd argue I don't want to be be so 'knocked out' I can't easily awake at a cerftain early hour if I need to, for work or whatever. Pros and cons, I guess.

That being griped about now, it is Thursday, and that means ... well, not a whole lot. The Project has continued into the week, and my estimate is it may go up to half a day tomorrow, if it doesn't wrap up today. Still no word if they will transfer to a current project, or just tell us to watch our emails for th start of a new one. I almost want to say wait for a new one, but I never know how long I may have to wait. Wouldn't mind a couple extra days off to clear my head from this project.

RM had sent home some stuff with my Wife the other day. It was some sugar-free cookies she had picked up - a few packages with 3-4 cookies of different flavors. aLso a book she had picked up when she and PT were on vacation up north last month. Seems the BnB they rented was this author's house she rented out, and the author had left a few signed copies there to purchase if interested. On the honor system I am sure. Well, RM loves to read, just doesn't seem to have the time for as much as she wants to read...anyways, she picked it up and read it while there and bought all the copies (I think she said it was like 4-5 copies) so she could give out to certain people. I am one of them.

So the cookies, made from a 'mom and pop' bakery called Shut My Mouth Bakery, I was a little leery of trying. I have in the past, and somewhat a little more recently, been trying some of the so-called sugar-free foods/drinks. The drinks are mostly water mixes, and aren't bad. The foods on the other hand ... seems many of those I have tried, leave a weird after-taste. Like a saccharine taste I remember from the old Tab sodas (remember those?). Well, I opened the White chocolate macadamian nut package (I love those from Subway) and they had that weird after taste. I gave the Snickerdoodles to the Youngest this afternoon (I don't care for that flavor) and he said they tasted fine to him. So maybe it is just the way they use ingredients, or something. I'll know in a few days after I open one of the other packs and try them.

Now this book, I got some really mixed up feelings on. I know RM reads here, so RM, know there are no hard/bad feelings about what I am going to say. I don't really like RM's selections of books for me. She knows I like different types of fiction ... fantasy or sci-fi more than others mostly. The only thing is I had asked her years ago to not buy me boooks anymore (for birthday or Christmas, etc). The reason being, was they were from the Christian book store, and always had a religious theme the author wanted to get across in some kind of made-up story. It was tiresome to read each book, even from different authors, that told the same basic story. Sometimes I swear it was like theonly thing changed were the character names, everything else was the same. Now I ain't blaming RM, she was making choices that she knew it was a better book to read than many on the market today, I am sure. And she always wants the best for her kids, especially about religion. Anyways, so this book is a maybe a bit different. According to the synopsis, it's about these two EMTs have some contact with a teen that survived a near-death incident and describes it to them. Then it goes into the whole 'spiuritual awakening' and 'why does God allow this type questions. Bonus .. the book is signed by the author, and you know how I like to collect books signed by the author. And because it is a real book, I'll have to figure out a time to sit and read it carefully to not crack the binding, get it dirty, etc - as it is a soft-bound book.

Welp, I managed to waste another twenty minutes or so with this post. Guess I will try to go lay back down and see if anything happens. MAy be back shortly. Who knows?

PeacE

A Saturday Well Spent

 It was nice to get out of town yesterday. To leave the confines of the house (aka workspace) and travel to a different region (slightly) of Arizona that adds a change of weather (very slightly) was somewhat ... refreshing. Of course, it is always good to see family as well. We left around 8-8:30 in the morning, and made good time to be there around 10:30. Of course, Doodad was being a stinker, and openly said she wanted to have nothing to do with me, but yet loved on her uncles and Mamaw. I'm not hurt. I think she loves me best and just is not comfortable showing it in front of everyone. I spent a part of the day watching a couple movies, then continued on to reading more of the current book. Interrupted for pizza for lunch, and few times of trying to get some attention from Doodad, to no avail. Uncle Youngests kept her attention though wearied of 'playing' constantly. Middle Son and SIL disappeared into their office to play some video game they are trying out. Cookies were made, which Youngest brought some home. I resisted the urge and did not have any - have to watch the sugar ya know. Finally as rounds of hugs were going round, I got some love from Doodad, and my day was complete. The ride home was uneventful, though there were some road closures due to the later hour. Nothing I did not expect, and knew enough of the East Valley freeways I could easily skirt it all.

Today finds me up early. I was awakened around 5:30 this morning with my elbow rubbing against sandpaper. Or rather more direct, a cat was licking my elbow. Said cap got a prompt scooting off the bed, and I discovered I was probably not going to make a return to sleep. I was hhpoing to make it to 8:30, but, you know, the best laid plans .... So I am up, did my sugar and BP counts (both about normal for me at the dosages I am at). A little later this morning I will be going up to the car wash to get all the bug smears off the windshield and a good wash, then headed to the pub. Today starts NFL on Sundays, and myself with a couple friends decided we would meet for the early game then go our ways each Sunday. Two of us have teams that have the early game throughout most of the season, so that will be nice.

Back to work on Monday, though not sure how much longer this project will be. I'm guessing Wednesday ... maybe Thursday at this point. Afterwards, they will probably move us to another project, or report us back to recruiting to be open for the next one. Honestly, I feel like I could use a few days off, but won't ask for them if on a project. Then again maybe I will. I have plenty of time off pay accrued...

We will be returning to Tucson later this month. The Wife bought tickets for a band called The LoBros, which we had seen about a year ago. The 25th is their last concert before disbanding and moving on to other things. Pretty talented brass players that put on a good show. Wife had got some tickets and I think the SIL, Daughter and us are going. IT's a Sunday (ugh) and I am sure I will be driving back fairly late in the day. That's sort of when I hope I don't have a project for Monday...

Welp, it's barely after 6am, so I should go get my regular stuff done. Enjoy your day!

PeacE

Going on a Holiday

 No, not really. We are getting out of town today though and headed south to visit the Daughter and family. I get to see my Doodad, so maybe it is a bit of a holiday. The Youngest and Middle Sons are traveling with also, so it may be a good trip.

Work continues. We were informed Thursday that that day would wrap up the QC work that we had been working on. Yet, they were going to move us on to yet another aspect of the project, what they call Complex Document Review. Basically, it is reviewing the documents that were overly large for a entry-level to review. Pay grade is still above the norm, so of course I volunteered to stay on. BEsides, I already have experience in that sector of work. So that continues into next week, though, it may not last the whole week. We shall see...

Welp, I guess I should get off here and go get the car gassed up and ready to go.

PeacE

To Where Ever They Roam ....

 My thoughts are all over the place this morning. Not for any one exact reason, except that I am still trying to wake up. Made it to bed feeling tired around midnight, and had the alarm set for 6:15. Want to get started fairly early today with work, as I need to be sure to get the Youngest to band by 4:30'ish. Seems they have a football game tonight they are playing at (on a Thursday?) which I don't understand. Then this morning he says he will just stay after school, as by taking the bus hiome, we would have to turn around and have him back to the school within the hour. So that frees up my afternoon, so wonder what I will do with the extra time.

Work is still going. I have no idea how close we may be nearing the end though. While I would love to be doing this level of QC for a longer period, everything must come to an end at some point. Appears we will be working through tomorrow, and after that will be decided over the weekend, I guess. Then it may be waiting time again for thenext project, unless they realize I now have the experience to do QC and move me into another directly. Be nice to stay at the higher pay grade.

It may be time for a new phone. Saturday, I noticed my cell phone seemed to not be able to hold it's battery charge as long as it normally had been. I even charged it up late in the afternoon, and within hours it was dead. I have a cheaper Moto-X from about three years ago. ASide from it was cheaper at the time, I like nothing about it. Similar in use as the typical android, it just had some quirks that were irritating. I will be looking at the newer Samsung phones versus any Apple product. For some reason, I just don't like Apple phones. Plus, being an android system, everything will change over to the new phone easier. I need to be sure it has been backing up my phone list on my current phone, and saving the pics from texts, etc. Hope I can figure that out...

Debating about taking a day trip to Tucson to visit. It has been awhile since we were last down, and even longer since they came up. I know how busy young families can be become, as the Daughter has shared their family schedule each month with us. Doodad is in Kindergarten this year, so that adds to the mix more as well. The SIL has done qquite a bit of work-related travel (including Canada) this summer as well. The Wife was asking last night if I had made up my mind, I said I would figure it out today.

Welp, I guess that pretty much sums up my exciting life right now.

PeacE

Happy Birthday to Me

 Another trip around Sol. Another notch to add to the aging tree (if there were such a thing. Happy Birthday to me.

I celebrated, yet again, yesterday with my friend from Florida. It was good to have a couple hours to catch up in person. It is back to work today, and I started early today due to one of the cats woke me at around 4:30 this morning. At least I will be done early, and have the afternoon to do something for the birthday, like read some more of the book I am on... or something.

Either way, thigns to do, things to celebrate before I am too old.

PeacE

What a Weekend ...

 Labor Day is here again, and you know what that means ... the start of my birthday month (as I say). So Saturday I had planned up to meet at one of my local pubs at noon, and invited many of my friends to come join me in having one, or two, or seven. No presents, no cards - buying me a drink was acceptable. Turned out to be a relly good day, as a friend of mine that lives in Florida flew in that morning, just for my birthday. She is leaving on Tuesday, and we are going to try to find some time Monday to get together for a bit. Not sure what her plans are, nor mine.

Saturday morning got an email from the Company that they are continuing with us on the project into this week. Monday was confirmed no hours, but opened it to 10 hrs/day to make up for being off Monday. Yeah, no holiday pay. I may or may not work the 10 hours shifts - it's not required.

Not having much luck falling asleep tonight, so got some things done on the interwebz as I need to. I think I got four or five reviews done so am caught up on the books. I do not have any more advanced copies at the moment, so will get back to my regular reads I am working on. My goal for the year is almost met (200).

Welp, on to something else to see if I can get sleepy...

PeacE

*YAWN*

  I'm a bit tired this morning. I finally made it to bed, probably shortly after midnight lastnight, and found myself awake at just before 5am this morning. Figured I might as well get up and start working. Bonus would be I will be off early this afternoon and have the possibility of a nap, if needed.

Work has been going well. Since they "moved me up" I have been enjoying the solitude of the workday, as in not being interrupted "a million times a day" with notifications/questions from the general MS TEams chat where most of the 'First Level' people are - many of whom I know are just starting to learn how to do this type of work. But ... still. At this level (and higher pay as well) it is much wuieter, as we have more experience and are actually going through most of the first level work to Quality Control it. A bit daunting at times, but much more enjoyable then the alternative - not having a project. No idea how much longer I will be on this one. Last week we knew it would be through this week - hoping for loonger but not sure, or how much.

Saturday it is time for the annual Ralph's Bday Get-Together I have started doing at one of the local pubs I frequently attend. Starts at noon, and goes til whenever you have to leave, the bar closes, or worst case, I leave and you don't want to stick around. Nothing special, just come out and chat and celebrate my bday. Of course, buy your own, and one for me if ya want. No presents are cards needed, just your presence. Last year was a good turn-out as about 15 or so friends stopped by over the course of a 6 hour period. Hoping for much of the same this year.

Speaking of the RBGT event, my brother contacted me, I don't know ... a week, maybe two ago, about the event. Said he wanted to make me a cheesecake for my birthday, and he was asking if I wanted cherry or some other flavor. First I told him don't even think about bringing a dessert to the bar, and secondly, I didn't want anything from him. Also, I KNOW I told him that I was diabetic, so he should be able to figure out that I really don't need some sugar-laden dessert. LAst night he was texting me he was making me a blueberry cheesecake tonight, and wanted to know when he could bring it to me. I told him again, "I told you I won't want it". ALl he says back is, well you know how well I listen. Yeah, that we do... cuz he don't. I hope he doesn't try to waste the time and materials to makeone, because I really don't need it. Worse case, I'll tell him to take it RM's - let her and PT have it, or share with their neighbors. Ha ha Mom!

Welp, I guess I should get to the work thing...

PeacE