Friday Afternoon Off

 After my 3-hour IOP this morning, I am free for the rest of the day. Plans were for the Youngest and I to head out to Peoria Discount and see what they have this time around for snacks and lunches for us. I dislike picking things out for him when he is not with, as I only know some of his likes. What if wants to try something new? So I told him I was free after noon, and he is yet still in bed. He's an adult. we talked about Discount last night, so he knew what time to get up and be ready. It's 2pm... I don't think we are going today. 

I may have mentioned before, but I did get the taxes filed online. I stopped at CVS and picked up my "special" medicine. Stopped at Walgreens. Explained I had heard from them in a week for prescriptions, so had her run through about 4 of them I know are ready for refill, or close, and one past that I need for next week. Today, they have one filled, two delayed, and I think it said it is too early for the 4th one. Of course the one I need for next week is a delayed one. Sigh. Insurance had "fought" the pharmacy on it, but finally okayed, they just don't have in stock.

Normally tonight would be the Riders Dinner at the Post, but we cancelled as this Bike Week AZ. In place they have the M.O.C. doing a spaghetti dinner. I don't think I will be up there at all today.

Tomorrow morning I have a dental cleaning and exam. I know I have at least two cavities, on molars, and rather than root canals and crowns, I'm just going to have them pulled. But that will be another appointment. I did look at the dental panoramic x-ray Mayo did, and it noted no gum disease and that it is noted dental work has been done before. Nothing about cavities being an infectious thing. SO do I need to have it done? Maybe not, but it is just going to start hurting at some point, and rather get it done now before the transplant.

In the mail today I received a letter from Mayo about the items the Transplant Council wanted completed prior to being on the Wait List. An MRI-Abdomen in June, treatment for Strongyloides (threadworm) and Cocci series, complete psychiatric and psychological consults in about 6 weeks, random drug testing until negative (from THC edibles I stopped in February),complete an IOP, Weekly AA meeting, and CT cardiac imaging to be reviewed by cardiologist. The Cocci and Strongyloides treatments I have already completed. I am in the IOP that should end early in June. Appointments made for the Psych consults. Drug testing is done monthly when I do blood work. I've been attending AA meetings, in fact, I need to do one probably today for the week. The CT cardio has been reviewed and at this time are not doing anything. I have a high calcium score, and some calcium build-up in the arteries. Deferment is for 3 months to get all this done (more than halfway there) then will re-evaluate with the Council.

Social Security Disability contacted me the other day and sent me some forms they need information on. One set was job history, the other was functional ability. Those are filled out and ready to go to the box at the P.O. 

Oh, and RM ... I got the two packages in for PT's birthday. I got him a book I thought he would enjoy (teach him to buy me a book) and a T-shirt that has Gibb's Rules listed from NCIS. I think I got a large, so not sure how it will fit. All their sizes tend to run on the lower side of a size.

Welp, I think I covered quite a bit today. How bored are you now?

PeacE

I Feel ... Productive

 Not quite noon, and I feel like I have accomplished quite a bit this morning (for me). Picked up the Youngest's dead computer from Data Doctors. They quoted $1300 for replacement of compatible parts. At Walmart, I found a system that would work for him (verified) and for only $899. It is to be shipped and arriving tomorrow. Christmas is definitely done for that kid this year!

Our Riders dinner wasn't as good last night. I think we did like 14 sales versus our usual 20+. I know it is December, and that limits, but truly was hoping for more. RM and PT came by. At one point I about smacked PT upside the head. We were in the canteen area prior to dinner, and he asks, out load, 'Have you decided to quit your Secretary position in the Riders'? Well, the Director was right behind him, so I muttered a quick 'I don't want to talk about it' and hoped the Director didn't overhear. I don't think he did. But PT is just getting worse with the dementia/mindset stuff. Just blurts out whatever, even if he already asked it. Does things like above, without a thought. Makes me want to be around him less, if that is possible from what I already feel.

So, dead computer picked up, new one ordered, picked up "breakfast" at McDs for the family, and started to pull out all my Santa gear. I need to see if I threw away the suit I had been using for the Santa Runs. It is stained, and whatnot, but I did find it, so no worries of dirtying up my nicer one I use for gigs. Some electrical tape repair to the belt, a quick lint remover roll and should be good to go for tonight. Oh, I need to get a hat for it. I didn't see one when I found the rest of the suit. Good suit is pretty much ready to go for the 19th as well.

I think I have decided that I am going to go to the ER tomorrow for a paracentesis. This morning I woke, again not feeling the pressure as bad, so am beginning to think the change in meds has starting a positive impact now. But I still need this drainage done as it is uncomfortable. I'm packing my backpack tonight just in case. Couple changes of underwear, socks and PJs, laptop, tablet and chargers. Just in case they keep me over night (or longer).

VFW Riders meeting Monday night for me, if I am discharged in time. Looks like we might do a spaghetti, garlic bread and salad for our January dinner. Director and I talked last night, the Hall has a rental that night after our dinner, so I am sure we will pick up some extra meal sales. A good reason to go with spaghetti! Cheap to make lots of it.

Okay, well, I still have stuff to finish prior to the Santa Run tonight. We should call it "The Myth, the Beard, the Legend ... Last Run with Santa". I am the only one from seven years ago, that will be at tonight's Run, and the last of the Original Guard. Really wish Oldest Son could make tonight (he has 6 years of going) but I understand Life happens.

Yesterday I worked on a spreadsheet for my medical stuff. One page is medications, amounts, times/day, followed by a second workbook page of the Doctors, and who they are to me (PCP, AZ Liver, etc.). Printed out a handful of copies to carry with my medical journal, because everyone always asks for the medicine info. Second page is in case they need contact numbers, etc. I think it turned out pretty good, considering I am self-taught and learning. My buddy that is "taking over the Santa Run" did a spreadsheet for those going, who has paid, who confirmed, etc. that I also modified up this morning. Adjusted it so those that need to pay still are at the top and easy to find on the list. We need about 8 more that committed to go, to show up and pay to cover the bus costs. I'm hoping the SIL doesn't go, as my Brother said her money will pay for my spot if she doesn't go. I like free.

Anyways, I wasting time now, so need to get off here.

PeacE

It's Easy To Get Lost ....

 ... in the seemingly notes/paperwork/discharges/follow-ups from doctors and hospitals, to find out the important things, like, what exactly are the meds/dosages? Is that a blood draw at the Liver Dr office, or is that not until January when he scheduled our next appointment? I have been trying my best to keep a journal of "all the experiences" of this joyride, as well as what reports I can print from patient portals for any doctors I see. I try to keep an accurate spreadsheet on my meds, dosages, how often to take. In fact, I need to call the Liver Spec. to confirm a couple things: do I have a blood draw on Monday, even though the appointment isn't until January? What were the changes he made to the two prescriptions? One I got cleared through the pharmacy already, as it was an increase in dosage and times to take. The other one, not sure...he said something about increasing it (I was already at 2xday per the hospital docs) but did he increase the dosage as well? Pharmacy is holding that one as I just filled that dosage strength a couple weeks ago, and the insurance wouldn't want me to have dangerous pills around, I guess. Gonna be a bit busy in the morning.....

Saturday, the Youngest was cleaning up some of his accumulated trash (empty sodas, sunflower seed packs, etc.) and accidently tipped a cup of water into the top of his computer casing. He was able to shut every thing down in seconds, but not sure how bad. He dismantled and dried out everything he could, and left it out and open to dry more. Sunday he tried powering it up, but only 2 (of 4 fans came on, and it was like the power wanted to come on, but wouldn't. Not knowing any computer-savvy people for this job, we took it up to Best Buy for their Geek Squad. 

I was angry! Without even looking at it, they charged me $180.00 ($16 and change tax) to purchase a coverage plan for this one item, that I don't even know if it is worth repairing. Then another $80 for diagnostic charge. Not happy! But Son needs it, and it needs to be found out. They guy hooks it up to a power source and turns it on, sees the same results we did, and said they wouldn't be able to look at it until the next day (it was evening). The next day, no call, no text from Geek Squad. Youngest and I go up, and I demand it back. A different person told me the coverage was required no matter what to have service there. I responded they didn't service it at all. He said when water spills are the cause they have to let it set 2 days before even looking at it. I demanded my refund, of the coverage and the diagnostic fee. He caved right away, when I added that his "associate" had fired it up the night we brought it in, and now it could be damaged more by their negligence of their own company policy. And Shouldn't I go speak to the manager right now?

So home we go with a computer that still doesn't work. The next day I took it into Data Doctors, who charged me $50 up front to look at it, said they had to wait the 1-2 days as well, and life went on. Today is that second day, and no call/text, so I told the Son we will call and check on it in the morning. Hopefully they found something fast, easy and cheap. I can't afford another whole computer right now.

My sister fell and fractured her pelvis this past weekend. She has been in the hospital (same one I go to) waiting to find a rehab facility that will take her insurance (Thanks Obama Affordable Care) and have a room available. Hoping tomorrow. I spent a little time with her yesterday and today. With her somewhat loopy from the pain meds, it's just too easy to get those sibling love jokes out of the way. I did promise no pictures though. Told her if she stayed until Sunday, we could be roomies. As I plan to go to the ER on Sunday for a draining, and any possible overnights they might need. At least my calendar is fairly free next week.

Getting close on my book goal. I have 2 reviews I have been lax about doing, and I think it leaves me one short, which I am working on reading now. Just with all this medical and whatnot, the desire to read like I did before has gone to the side as I just can't concentrate as well. Maybe when things start getting in better control.

PeacE

Catch Up Time

 It's been nearly a week since I last posted. I would normally say not much has happened, but that isn't true this week, it seems.

Last weekend, the Middle Son reached out to us. For several years we have offered to assistance with his car in getting the A/C repaired (he always said no). But now, with his partner pregnant and due any day, he realizes he can't be driving around in the Phoenix summer heat with a newborn and no A/C. So the offer had changed to us "financially assisting" him with finding a newer vehicle. Wednesday he and I went out to a dealership I was recommended to, and after looking at three cars, found the one he felt good about, at a decent price. So he is the owner of a 2014 Ford Escape. I can rest a bit easier knowing the newborn will have better safety and good A/C while traveling now.

While we were waiting to do all that paperwork stuff, I guess the partner felt she was having the baby. Her Mom is in town, and took her to the hospital. So once the Son had the car, he headed there to find out it was a 'panic' and she is doing fine, not yet ready, and sent her home. I haven't heard from them since Wednesday.

The Oldest Son reached out to the Wife earlier this week as well. I guess there is some turmoil in his household (meaning between his partner and he). Sounds like their relationship may be over, but I do not know any details. Not that my opinion matters, but I never much cared for his partner. She refuses to do anything with his family, except the one time we did it at their apartment. Plus she has other "mental" issues.... I just leave that there.

Youngest is still looking for employment - me as well. Nothing has come back in touch for me, and finding something in my area without having to drive across the Valley is near impossible it seems. I wish I was 20 years younger, so I could do more of the physical work that I cannot do now. Sigh. A handful of wishes, and a handful of crap - which will fill faster, right?

Having some withdrawals about seeing the granddaughters. We haven't been able to match up a schedule with the Daughter to visit, or them visit us.

July 4th is coming up. I know the Post is doing a flag raising in the morning. A friend has invited us over for an afternoon/evening party with swimming, food and fireworks. Not sure if we all will make it - the Wife has to work.

Welp, RM can catch up on my life stuff now... I'm off to the pub to watch the Price is Right. Relax RM, I'm drinking tea there, not beer. After all it is only 9am....

PeacE

Feeling Overwhelmed

 I went out yesterday for a bit. I admit, I probably had a couple too many. Talking with my friend, the attorney, and mentioned about how tonight is the MANDATORY Seniors meeting at the school for Youngest, and my friend got me riled up. Mainly because he states by law they cannot make it mandatory. I showed him the email, and he corrected me that it is the Senior would not walk with their class, if they didn't attend. I'm sure Youngest doesn't care. And he has to miss half of the band practice time to go to the meeting... Sigh. Frustrating.

So after getting home, got into an argument with the Wife over this MANDATORY meeting. Ended up being irritated and sitting at the computer until 5am, before finally going to bed. And I slept until 1pm. I only got up because I had to pee.

I received an email from the attorneys working on my accident case. I guess my deposition is set for later October. Every time stuff comes up on this, I get anxious feelings, and irritated one, that this has gone on for so long.

The Company sent me an email for a project starting tomorrow. I think I will just 'accidently lose' the email. The duration is only for a week, and honestly, I am just a mess of emotions today, that I just don't feel the desire to work for one week. If I sit idle another week, I sit idle.

Well, I know it is early afternoon, but I think I will jump int he shower, then get through the rest of the day.

PeacE

Starting Another Week

 Monday has rolled around again, and I sit here trying to determine what I will be doing this week. Sometimes I wish it was as simple as 'Work, of course', but that isn't happening as of yet. I did send off an email to the Company, explaining that I was on a project, that suddenly was gone from my access, and that I was unsure if they reported us back to Recruiting to be placed onto another project. In other wards, I let them know I was available. I got the auto-reply that they will update my status.

The Youngest has Senior Night at the school tomorrow evening. Parents are to attend with the student for three 20-minute sessions (about what, who knows - better yet, if the kids ain't going to college, why bother). They state in the multiple emails I have received, that it is MANDATORY for seniors to attend or they will not graduate. Attendance will be taken. Asinine if you ask me....

So I am awake just a little earlier than usual. Youngest missed his bus, and I offered to take him instead of the Wife (allows her a few extra minutes of bed-time). Of course, my ulterior motive was so I could stop and get breakfast - which I did. So I have something to eat this morning anyways.

No major plans other than this for the week. Of course, if the Company gets back to me, I could be working soon. Otherwise I feel it is Warcraft and YouTube for the week. And maybe a movie or two.

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

Patience Is A Virtue ...

 ... but I am not virtueous, nor patient. I have been irritated for the past few weeks, as no new prokects have come along for me to work on. I try to calm myself, by reminding myself that this seemed to happen last summer as well. Maybe it is the business... or the time of year ... or something - I don't know. Either way, as I was writing up a book review on a recent finished read, I got the email notification sound on my phone, and immediately opened it up in the computer. It was the Company seeing if I could start a project tomorrow. Of course I immediately replied, and within five mibutes got my confirmation of starting tomorrow. Yea! It is slated to be 1-2 weeks long, but something is something, and could carry into another (or higher) project.

The Wife informed me this morning that the Youngest isn't feeling well. She indicated his lymph nodes around the jawline seemed swollen a bit, and he complained of a headache and sore throat. She mentioned that maybe we should use one of the home test kits for Covid just to be sure. Then she saidor maybe take him to urgent care. I haven't yet seen him today ( it's about 1pm) and figured he is sleeping, which could be good. I suppose I should go wake him and see how he feels - maybe when I finish this post.

I'm supposed to go out with my best friend tonight, as he is meeting up with another friend. He calls this friend Jack the Jew, because evidently he comes from a Jewish family, is an attorney, and from what I have been told he looks and sounds just like Adam Sandberg. I have talked with Jack before on the phone, and admit, he does sound that way. And he is funny! So tonight should be fun.

Thought about going to Tucson this weekend. The SIL is supposed to be back from Canada, and my thought was taking Doodad to the Zoo or something for the day. Gives the other two time alone. But not sure now, with a project starting up (though we don't work weekends). I don't know.....

Guess I should go wake the boy and see how he is feeling...

PeacE

Another 16th Year Milestone

 The Youngest Son turns 16 years old today. The fourth (and final) child of our loins, has hit that year for his drivers license, though, he has not shown much interest in getting it, or doing the tests for the permit, etc. He has asked me questions and I have directed him to the training manual, but as of yet, I don't think he has downloaded it to study. That's on him.

Either way he has decided for his dinner he would like Red Robin. I know, I figured he would want somewhere more expensive, like one of the steakhouses, but if that's what he wants.... We are pushing it to Wednesday instead of today though, so his two older brothers can go as well. It is the only night they have off work together to attend. RM and PT are coming by today to take him out for lunch, as their birthday gift to him. The middle Son came over today early (when he got off work)_ to hang out before going to get a couple new tires. The one they had plugged went flat again, and he decided to replace one of the others that is getting thin on tread. So he 'woke' his younger sin with his birthday "spankings". I'm sure there was plenty of rough-housing going on, and glad his room is down the hall from us, as I didn't wake to their shenanigans.

No set plans for this weekend. I think once both the boys are gone, the Wife and I may go out for lunch, and get some shopping done.

Friday I finished work with my 40 hours for the week, and there is more work. Though they added around 10 extra people, the workload is carrying into this next week. Not sure how many days though, but will take what I can. I am sure I will be off minimum a few days once done, before being transferred to a new project (of the 'several we have in the pipeline').

PeacE

Nothing Changes

 It is nice to be back to work on a project. This newest one finally started around midday on Thursday, and is expected to last about three weeks. This project is a little different than previous ones I have worked, so I am getting to "learn" a different aspect of the job. I just feel good being able to apply time to a job, versus sitting around waiting for something to happen.

RM has been writing about PT (my stepdad) the past couple days on her blog. In short, his current car is supposedly in "dire" need of repairs that just aren't cost productive for the age of the car. So "they" are looking for a newer vehicle for him. Several months ago, I had breakfast with PT, and we talked about him "hanging up the keys". The response was one I was not happy with, and in honesty, was not surprised to hear it from him - "I will pray on it". Which means it went nowhere. I have refused to ride with him for several years - back when we were able to meet for breakfast every now and then. His driving had (to me) became too erratic, and I did not feel comfortable as a passenger. He has even admitted to me, about falling asleep at a red light while driving, though it was only a "couple seconds". RM is just kind of "rolling with the flow" about the whole car thing. I know you should pick your battles carefully, but this one just irritates me to no end. Sorry, Mom... but that is just how I feel.

And speaking of getting newer vehicles, we are still looking. I have settled on getting a Toyota Rav4 LE X and now my only problem is finding on in town that is in a color I want - no black, white or "bright" colors for me. I would prefer silver, grey or charcoal, but I haven't found any yet. I may have to have one ordered shipped in to get my color choice. The Wife hasn't really made up her mind about it all yet. She wants to look at some other vehicles in person. My time frame was to have one before our trip to Tucson this month, so I am hoping to find a color I can live with, as it looks like it will be my new vehicle that gets here first.

The Youngest has started Spring Break. After this next week, it has been decided the school will open the doors and students will attend physical classes again. THANK YOU LORD! He has struggled with at least two classes, with grades, due to not doing homework, or staying awake during class time online. In theory, he has actually gotten the grades above the F mark, but I don't have finally info on that. But being in class will make him concentrate on homework better - having in class time to work on it, plus having to hand in a physical piece of homework versus email. The Son has admitted it would help him be more responsible about it all.  I can agree with that. The Wife and I as parents, have tried everything we can to get him to be responsible about his school work this whole time it has been online. Physically, I can't make him do things that would help him. But even checking on him every hour (to make he is not sleeping again) and taking away other electronics (tablet, etc) nothing seemed to work. Being back in the classroom would be good.

Nothing much else going on. I'm headed up to the pub midday to help out a computer illiterate friend to pay his taxes online. Long story. But we will have a couple drinks and then I'll come back home.

Guess that's about it.

PeacE