I'm Tired

 Yesterday started off nicely. I woke, did my routine, felt fine to drive the 30 minutes to a VFW Post for our District meeting/training. I headed out with plenty of time. When I got there, I was getting my stuff from the car: put on my VFW Riders cut, which I haven't worn in awhile, grabbed my traveling office bag and locked up. I started to put the keys in the inner pocket on my vest, and found something: a pack of cigarettes, with three left in it. I guess I hadn't worn the cut in awhile! I had no strong craving/urge to smoke, and they would have been 'stale-tasting' I am sure. But I put it back in the pocket, so share the tale with RM and the Wife later. 

I guess I misunderstood a bit about these new trainings we are doing at District meetings. We still do our regular spilt Aux/Post meeting, then break for lunch, then start the training. I had plans and let my Aux Leader know I couldn't stay for the training part. My plans were to run by RM's, drop off her birthday present, visit a little, and head home with dinner at Olive Garden at 5pm. Well, I-10 runs within a quarter-mile of the Post, and unbeknownst to me, they closed Eastbound at like 8am (after I was at the Post). So traffic was terrible. Between the freeway detour, and the street I was one being one of the closest E-W through-streets, it was going to be a pain. In the first hour, I made it a quarter mile, but had managed to change streets to the one I wanted at least. This one ran N-S, but every mile is a through-street, and they were all backed up as everyone had the same idea to go over and catch another freeway. I decided to just stay on this street, as I believed it would go up to RM's. Of course not. But by then O was able to hop over to the 101 and head to RM's like normal. One hour, forty-five minutes it took to go about 16 miles. I could be at the Daughter's house in Tucson in that amount of time!

Well, I gave RM her present, visited for a bit, had my iced tea. I love how she always has iced available for me. I think it was about 3 when I headed home. Went to dinner at 5 with the birthday boy from yesterday (Middle Son). Youngest Son came as well. Oldest Son met us there. And of course, Doc, my grandson, was there. Reminds me I got a couple pics to send to RM, not good ones, as I hate doing pics. By the time we got home, I was almost falling sleep on my feet from being so worn-out. Between the traffic, sitting in the heat (even with a/c), and just stuff in general, I was wasted. So bad, I slept until almost 9a today. I know I needed it.

Welp, I gotta get out of here and get stuff done.

Don't be ashamed of who you are - that's your parents job.

PeacE

Racing the Clock ...

 That's a bit how I feel this morning. Woke up an hour earlier than usual (unintentionally) to start getting ready. I have a VFW District 3 training to attend today. It is all the way down in Tolleson. That sounds far, but by freeway it should only take about 30 minutes. It starts at 9am, and had it in my notes it ends about 1pm, but have seen other things that say 2pm. Either way, I am there all morning.

Yesterday was the Middle Son's 24th birthday. The Wife had the day off work (low census) and we invited him and the family to lunch at Seafood Harbor - my favorite Chinese buffet place close to home. He turned us down (the audacity!). Last night the Wife asked about inviting Middle Son again for tonight for an early dinner somewhere of his choosing. We are inviting the Oldest son and his GF as well. I'll hear updates from the Wife today about it all.

The Wife and Youngest have an appointment today with the Bank. I know we have been slow about it, and he has not pushed about it, and he doesn't have paychecks to deposit, so we never got around to setting up a bank account for him. Normally he could go anywhere, anytime to set one up, but he, like his brothers, want it linked to our account - in the way that the Wife (Not even I) can see the account, mainly in case we need to help them with some cash or something, it is easier to transfer the monies. Plus in this day and age, with everything starting to go cashless, he needs a card with money in an account. He is leaving for Cali in about a week and a half - ya never know ...

And with that, I need to get off here and do my quiet time before heading to the training.

PeacE

Short and Sweet

 Not much to share today. I have a District 3 VFW training to attend to this morning at my Post. I am in the middle of making sure I have every thing I need to bring in my portable office. Even if I am only an Asst. Secretary to my Aux Post, I try to assist a little at the District meetings as well. For example, it is a small thing, but I provide a sign in sheet, properly titled for the type of meeting, and the date. Our own Secretary has mentioned to me that even just for our Post, this is so much better than just a blank sheet with names scrawled willy-nilly on it. A little organization, ya know?

This next week is pretty free of events. I do have a Para scheduled for Wednesday, and the regular Aux meeting on Tuesday evening ... and that is it. Oh, and my Step-Mom's birthday is Tuesday as well. Though she and I have had some 'bad times' between us back when I was about 12 and Dad had passed, she didn't stop me from leaving to go live with RM. As I became an adult and learned some of Life's lessons, she has never failed to let me (and my family) visit  my little sister. Our relationship has grown, as both of us overcame issues we have had, and I respect and admire her quite a bit. She has fought cancer, debilitating mental issues and extreme grief - most at the same time - so who wouldn't seeing someone that has overcame.

RM's birthday is next month, too. I have no clue as to what to get her. If I ask, I'm told nothing, or gift cards for Amazon. I know most people want to give a gift that has some meaning to relationship with that person, or that the birthday person is "into" like a hobby. She likes that diamond art. Wish I had a good picture of my family to have a kit made for her. I have a couple weeks before I have to have something, at least ordered. I know, she's going to say don't bother for her sake ... but c'mon! It's RM!

With that I need to sign-off, finish getting ready for my meeting/training.

PeacE

If I Think Real Hard ...

 ... it will come. Maybe. Sometimes coming up with a post title is hard.

It is Sunday, and I am up at the usual time. For a short bit, while getting dressed, I was going through things I need to get done today. After a few minutes of this, I realized it was Sunday and not Monday, so it kind of messed with my 'just made' plans. But wait! Sunday is more open to get things done. Only, the things I was going over was my appointments and the VFW Riders meeting in the evening. Oh crud! I forgot to do the Agenda - I better do it right away before the meeting. Wait! It's Sunday, I have time to complete it. Sigh.

Guess what I get to do today? Yeah, the Agenda for the Riders meeting. Shouldn't take too long - I don't think we have much going on.

'The wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round' but the ones on my office chair, not so much these days. The chair I currently have is a nice one from Staples a few years ago. But in this older house, the concrete-painted floor of the office has "roughened" up the surface from use, so the plastic wheels just pretty much got destroyed over time. Considering how heavy I was, it is not surprising. Unfortunately, I think it is past the warranty date (which I find isn't where it is supposed to be) but I don't think they would cover use/abuse. Maybe I'll take the Wife and hit a couple Goodwills nearby and see if they have a roller office chair that is good. I could look for shorts too, of the style I like, preferably in my "new" waist size.

The Wife and I went to dinner last night at Garcia's - one of our favorite Mexican restaurants. I had the El Magnifico Sampler platter (Chimi, burrito, chile rellano, taco refried beans, and rice. Don't forget the chips and salsa! I ate way more than I should have, but I'm just calling it a "cheat day". I still have the beans, rice, chimi and burrito to eat for today.

Tomorrow is the birthday of my Oldest Son, and he turns 28. I have asked if he wanted anything for his birthday, but have never gotten a response, so I have no clue. I don't know if the Wife has gotten anything for him. I'll text him tomorrow, as we rarely see him. He works night as a Night-Time Operation Mgr. at Home Depot.

Well, I guess I should wrap this up and get stuff done.

PeacE

Nuttin' Much ....

 ... to write about this morning, but I felt I should work harder at putting something in here.

Spent the afternoon at the Post (as a regular Saturday) as a friend was doing bartender duty. We were able to catch up, which was nice. I did my Viking/clash/game thingy most of the afternoon. Saw my Brother in the evening. The SIL came up and was talking to another person sitting to my left (an acquaintance) and of course I ignored her. At the same time she said nothing to me (which was a bit odd, as she always tries to). Brother came up a few minutes later and said the SIL had already started drinking at home, and on the way, he had told her to NOT speak tome, because she was already half-drunk. I guess he knew I would rip her a new one if she started spouting off to me....

Today plans are made. Once again back to the Post as a friend is celebrating her 80th birthday and has the Hall rented out from 12p-4p. I had stopped yesterday morning and picked up a couple cards - one for her, and one for another celebrating their 80th next weekend. No gift, as I am not a good gift shopper, and at 80, I am sure she has most things she needs/wants, so want am I going to change. Today's challenge will be trying to get the Wife to go with me. She has met this friend before, but the Wife seems to hate going to the Post. Got a few hours to work it out yet....

Today is also my Oldest Son's birthday. He turns (counting on fingers and toes) DAMN! He turns 27 today! I sent off a text to him saying the happy bday thing. No, with plans I have today, I didn't even try to do the family dinner thing. I would have loved if he wanted to come 'hang out with Dad' for his day, but none of the kids like to do that anymore. I feel like when I am texting, I am still intruding into their personal lives. I guess being an asshole dad will make that happen.

Tomorrow starts the week again with a Monday. I'll be heading to the Post (again) to help inspect and bundle the flags for the Veteran markers at the cemetery next Saturday. Still need to check if the Youngest would like to do it again this year with me or not. 

Nothing else coming to mind that I can share about her, so I am guessing I am done.

PeacE

Did I Drink Enough...?

 ...of tea? Oh my! I had too much (is that possible?) considering I am feeling like I am on a caffeine high, I would say it was too much. I had gone up to the Posy, and trying to not drink alcohol, and as my usual habit when I spend an afternoon at the Post, I was drinking tea. Yeah, it comes from a box through the multi-pour device they have, but it is what it is. I don't sweeten it. But the handful of small pitchers I had.... and now I am still wired! I even stopped and had a couple beers, thinking to "offset" the effect - no luck. So now it it is almost 4am and I am wired.

Some people are naturally born to be multi-event people. I think of parents of kids in youth sport events, with multiple kids, and the planning to be at a game, driving to practices, on a multiple level. I ain't one. Luckily, my kids mostly did Band at the HS level, and they attended one at a time. So it wasn't a juggle of time/resources for the Wife and I to be at a band event, and have to worry about one of the other kids. Most of the time, if a younger one had an event, it did not coincide with the HS one, so it wasn't an issue. But this weekend and next, I feel like I am strung out.

And that's just me. When I got home tonight, I mentioned to the Wife the things I got going on between this weekend and next. She just sighed, knowing I would not be home much. I invited her to a couple of them (a birthday party at the Post I need to at least make an appearance at, and even a volunteer event) but I doubt she will want to partake in them. Other things are truly volunteer, but I feel needs to be participated in, especially come Memorial Day weekend. Last year, the Youngest did come with me to do the flag placing at the cemetery for veterans. I plan on asking if he would like to go again this year. If he says no, I am not sure I will, as I cannot carry a bundle of flags, the rebar to make the hole, and my cane all at once, but we will see. Then on that Memorial Day Monday, there are three separate flag raising events the Post is doing. I don't think I will make all three, but the last is at our Post, and I do want to be there for that.

This is also the time for graduations, and my nephew (Brother's stepson) is having a grad party at the Post on the 26th. I kind of do not want to go. His mother (my now SIL) is someone that has caused some strife in my siblings and above - not so much my kids. RM blogs about forgiving, and not talking bad about people. And much more. But I am only me. When I see her, usually at the Post when she comes up with my Brother, I just ignore her. She might say hi to me. I act like she isn't there. I feel, if I don't talk to her, she won't piss me off, won't drag me into any of her narcissistic bullshit, and be able to blame how she is a victim to anything I say. I'll talk to my Brother, sure. I even talk to her Son, when he comes up. He's a good kid, just has a Mother that is really messed psychologically (my opinion). So I will at least get a card, put some money in it, drop it off personally at his party, but may not hang around.

At the Post tonight, I played 'what ya wanna hear'. Several regulars were asking if I was going to sing karaoke, and I shrugged. I said I wasn't in the mood for anything particular, and no "pretty girls" to sing to (jokingly). Then was asked, 'Oh, you do this song that I really like', so I said, okay put me in. I got three in before the night finished. At least some people were happy. Kinda wish RM would come up sometime, and maybe give me a couple songs she likes so I could sing for her. BTW RM, I know Don Williams tunes, and have about four I'll do. Saturdays... 7pm-11pm but the early shift (before 9pm) there are more singers and harder to get through the rotation fast. FYI.

I don't want to talk about the job searching, because it hasn't gone anywhere. I don't know if it is my age, or the jobs I'm applying for - well, I'm over-experienced for, but I'm willing to do them. I am not sitting on a low-pay job until something else comes along... Sigh.

Miss my Doodad and Widget. Daughter send pics to the Wife and pretty regularly, which we compare every couple of days - to be sure one of us didn't get some different, or extra pics that the other didn't. Right now I know of no plans to go to Tucson soon, and I hope maybe they will be up this way in the next couple weeks - though unsure of their plans.

The Oldest Son has a birthday come Sunday. No plans have been made. He works nights M-F, and due to, let's just say, his 'work management above him', his weekends generally are a time for him to catch up on sleep, and spend time with his girlfriend. So I plan to reach out tomorrow (later today) and see if even at his age, he might be interested in at least Mom & Dad doing dinner out with him. I have no present for him as I have no idea what he may need, or even want. I saw him on Mother's Day for 10 minutes, and before that it had been a few weeks. Will see if he answers my text, and go from there.

Sometimes, ya just gotta roll with whatever is going on...

PeacE

At Least There Will Be Ice Cream ....

 ... maybe.

It's Friday, and I find myself well-rested, waking before 6:30am today. I had been able to get out the other day and picked up more edibles, so slept well last night. Aside from a couple 'awaken instantly' moments, and a couple foot cramps, it was a nice night.

Tomorrow we will be doing a trip South to Tucson, to visit the Daughter and Family. Doodad's 8th birthday is tomorrow, and we will go for the day, though the Daughter said that with it being Easter weekend, they are not really doing any sort of party. She mentioned with many families traveling and whatnot, they decided to do like a pizza party next Saturday. I'm not going back down then, as I don't want to be at a pizza joint with a bunch of screaming 8 year-olds running around. <shudder>.

Decided to myself I will be heading down to the Post today, though not staying into the evening late. Used to have karaoke on Fridays and Saturdays, but due to lower attendance and Canteen sales, they cancelled Fridays now. However, tonight is an even to remember a fallen Veteran and fellow law officer killed on duty. Supposed to be a LOT of people (oh joy). Most of the event is to raise monies for funeral costs for the family (allegedly). I am always hesitant about fund-raising like this, though IO do understand the high costs, etc. Just have become somewhat jaded on the subject, especially after seeing so many people with the plastic jugs at street corners with some kid's picture taped on the jar, panhandling. Many times, it would be the same kid pic for weeks on end, though never the same person. Sigh. Makes me think poorly of some of our society. So yeah, not planning on being around for that event. My usual Saturday afternoon I will be in Tucson, and gladly. The Post has the Rough Riders MC doing an "In Memoriam" motorcycle ride that ends at the Post, remembering all those that passed in motorcycle accidents. I know it will be crazy up there that night.

Not much going on for now....

PeacE

Three-Quarters of a Century

 I think back to my grandparents, on Dad's side, and if they had not passed these recent years, they were -near 75 years of being married. I think they made about   years before Grandma passed away. But truly, the title today is more about RM, as she turns 75 years today. As my (cheap) gift for her birthday, I was able to take her out the the Black Bear Diner (good eatin's) for breakfast, and I truly ate too much. OR I feel that way. We spent a good hour and a half just chit-chattin' about whatever. She said some possible plans of how she is spending her day, and I hope she has an enjoyable time.

I think I will head up to the Post for a bit this afternoon. Tomorrow, RM had shared that someone we had known several years ago (not seen recently) had passed away, and a celebration of Life was scheduled for the afternoon. I mentioned it to the Wife, but not sure if she is wanting to go. I don't feel like I would like to attend. It had been years and I particularly was not close the this person. Will see what the Wife wants to do, I guess. If I don't go, probably end up at the Post for my regular Saturday thing.

After today, I guess the next birthday coming up in my family (not counting nieces, etc) is my own birthday. RM had asked what I would want for my birthday, and I told her nothing. I could not think of one thing that I particularly needed/wanted off the top of my head. On the drive home from breakfast though, I realized what would be nice.... If all of my kids would get together and take me out for supper. Yeah, all four of them, spouses, girlfriends, any kids (the one granddaughter), the Wife and I. This happened a few years ago, but hasn't really happened (with everyone) but has been close, a couple times.

Welp, I suppose I have wasted enough time sitting here trying to think what else to share.

PeacE

Returning to a Routine ...

 The Youngest has some Zero Hour practices at school this week, and into early next week. Which basically means that he has to be there prior to 7am, similar to when marching band is in session. This is because the band director that started there last year, decided to split the band up in regards to their practice times. Which means, instead of full band rehearsing at Zero hour all year, only wood winds and brass at zero hour, and percussion has a class schedule at like 4th hour. Meaning the Youngest had to give up an elective this year. It also means, that the percussion section does not practice at all with the full band. Needless to say, this band director was "asked to leave" do to complaints of possible behavior related to possible drug use. So A new director started this new semester, and this is the only way to get the full band together to practice for the spring concert (which is March 5th at 7pm RM). There is no way he could fix the students schedules halfway through the year....

I don't now why I just rambled through all that. Must be because it is 1:30am and I am awake. I went to bed about 9, and read/did a couple puzzles on the tablet, and was trying to sleep around 9:30. But about an hour ago I woke and cannot get back to sleep. Maybe realizing how boring my life feels at times will put me back to sleep.

No major plans this week (Again). The weekly email will go out to the Company about my availability a little later this morning (or maybe here shortly). A friend showed me a small battery booster they had purchased at Harbor Freight last week, and I am thinking of going there tomorrow to see if they have them in stock, versus just regular jumper cables. Then maybe off to the store to find some things for lunches this week. Be nice if I could get out to the Discount Grocery we like, AND they were to have the huge bag of shredded lettuce (like 5 lb bag). That would be perfect for eating healthier, however, the last few times we had been out there it was not in. Their stock fluctuates daily.

Today is also the Youngest's 18th birthday. We have asked several times over the past few months what he would like, and always got a 'no answer' type answer. No idea if the Wife has found a couple things he would maybe like. If I find that battery booster pack, that'll be at least a present he can use for the car. He put off the birthday dinner until next weekend, as he would like to see if his brothers would be able to go as well. Middle Son said he could, just needs when/where info ...  Oldest Son has not responded. In fact, he hasn't responded much to my text inquires of late. I am guessing it is because of the work hours/time but who knows. I'm sure RM goes through thoughts like these with us kids as well. I invited the Oldest Son's girlfriend as well, but who knows. I think  I will just tell them a time and location, and if they show, they show. I just hope Youngest isn't disappointed.

Still working out plans for our 33rd Anniversary coming up late March. I've mentioned a few ideas to the Wife, and I think we have settled on one idea. I need to verify with her to confirm, prior to starting to plan the drive, places to stay/visit, etc. More to share when I confirm....

On a good note, I am 49 books into my goal of 200 this year. Right now it says I am at 25% of my goal (though by my math I am one short of that true 25%). Looks like it will be another good year of reading....

Guess I am off to watch an episode of some show or something to see if I can get sleepy.

PeacE

What To Do Now?

 It is another early morning for me. I had the alarm set for 6am, but thanks to the Damn Cat (aka Crack Kitty, and the One I Want to Die) woke me but evidently shaking his water covered fur-face on the bed. Of course, it startled me awake thinking he had sprayed on me... The Wife verified it was only water though. But now I am wide awake. Is it bad I think I want to see him die? Maybe. But he is around 16-17 years old, and since Daisy, our dog, had passed this last year or so, he has lost a lot of weight, and has begun to just crap/pee wherever he feels like it in the house. Yeah, so he is old, but that doesn't give him the right to just empty the old body wherever he feels like it! Thankfully, we have tile floors throughout, so easier to clean up (which we shouldn't have to do) except when he does it in other places (laundry baskets, on the bed, etc). It is very frustrating at times. And the two younger cats? As long as they don't pick up these bad habits, they will be okay, and allowed to live.

So nothing new from the Company since last week. I may be sitting here twiddling my thumbs for a bit ....

Youngest has Homecoming this week. There is a 'movie showing' today after school that he wanted to stay for, and spend time with his girlfriend. Of course, he has practices on Tuesday and Thursday, then the game on Friday. Saturday ends the HC week with the dance that he is planning to attend as well. I believe it is his first dance ever.

The Eldest, and only Daughter, is celebrating her birthday this week. She is that ripe age of 20 years younger than myself. I like to tease her about it, but she is smart (like her Mother) and usually turns it back on me. I'll have to look and see if I can find something on Amazon she could use and have it sent hopefully in time for her birthday.

Thankfully the weather has seemed to finally cooled off. Enough that we are not having 100+ degree temps anymore. This last week has been nice to be outside, and remember what it looks/feels like.

I'm all caught up on my books for review list. I guess since I am up so early, I will start browsing the sites and requesting anything that sounds good. I did load up the tablet with about 20 books the other day. Most this time around are stand-alone novels, though I have been collecting some series that will be added in next time around. 

I suppose I should close this off. I do have some time to play games today, apparently, so at some point I will be on Warcraft, and the viking game I have been playing. It really sucks being bored....

PeacE

I've Got a Peaceful, Easy Feeling ....

This morning I awoke as the Wife's alarm going off about 6:10am. As I lay there a moment, I realized that I had slept all night, with no recollection of any wake-ups. This is the third night in a row this has happened, and I am pretty sure I know why: my CPAP part replacement came in on Monday. It feels wonderful! I feel so much more rested! And woke with this song in my head this morning....

That takes me back to some younger years ... as did RM's comment in her blog this morning. She brought up a (painful) memory about when I was younger and for some reason was prone to getting boils. I had had quite a few on my hip and lower back (inflamed from bug/tick bites?). My Dad was notorious for trying to pop them like zits, until the "seed" popped out. RM was talking about the old wives tales of certain fixings for certain scrapes, stings, etc, and had mentioned putting raw bacon on a boil - which we did try at least once I remember. We also tried ointments, hot water battles, and who knows what else - I can't remember them all. Luckily that was only a short phase during my life, because the only thing I remember most was Dad squeezing them and the pain!

Well, PT is having a birthday this Saturday. I went to text his this morning about meeting at the Black Bear Diner that evening for dinner with us. For some reason, my phone would not send the text, saying something about the service was not available. I tried twice. So then I rebooted the phone, and it now looks like it was sent (twice) but am not sure. Guess I will wait an hour or so to see if he replies, if not I'll message RM and see if he just forgot to respond....

No major plans today. Still have not heard from the Company, so no work. I'll probably end up playing some Warcraft after I finish my daily round of blogs, email, social media, etc. It is Thursday, so will probably meet up with a couple buddies for a couple brews tonight.

PeacE

Saturday is for Shopping ... Maybe

 I'm up a bit earlier than I like to be, for a Saturday. I know I woke several times through the night, thanks to the Crack Kitty (aka Rusty) who can 'Meow" with the loudest of jungle cats. That damn cat would just not shut up last night. So here I am before 7am, the morning medicals done and pills washed down with some of the left-over sweet tea from Church's Chicken that the Wife had picked up last night. I'm out of soda, sadly, so may have to base today's agenda around acquiring some more.

Looks like I will be making a trip to the VFW today as well. I was just there last Saturday, and I try to keep my visits about every 2-3 weeks, as I do not want them to think my spectacular appearances are something they should expect on a any sort of regular schedule. However, My brother, Stuman, is planning on bringing up some jerky for me. He had mentioned something about jerky on FC around a week ago or so, and I said I always want some. I am guessing he either has some leftover, or he picked some special up for me. We are meeting up tonight. I haven't seen him in awhile, so will be nice to catch up a bit - maybe.

Yesterday was St Patrick's Day, just another drinking holiday, though I restrained myself from falling into the masses of amateurs that were filling barstools, and the roadways. That day and NYE are two of my favorites to just stay home, unless I have a guaranteed safe ride home. It is also the birthday of my younger sister (and her husband). This year she turned 40, which makes me feel my age a bit, since I am around 11-12 years older than she (she is a half-sister). I know, I know, my age is lower than some of you out there ... but still.

So maybe some shopping this morning, as I said I need to get some soda. Well, not really NEED to get, but definitely would like to have some at home. There isn't much else to really shop for today, except maybe some snack foods. May check prices on apples, or some other produce I like. Better than chips or candy. I dunno. May wait until the Wife wakes, and see what she thinks.

Edit: I did do some shopping - online. I found some replacement feet for my keyboard on Amazon. Should be fixed Wednesday.

PeacE

Let's Get Drunk and Go Streaking in the Quad!

 I don't know what made me think of this post title today. It is a line by Will Ferrell in the movie "Old School". I found the movie funny when I watched it a few years back, and that line has just always stuck with me. After all, he is playing a character in like his mid-thirties, and getting a frat house going...etc etc. There is more to the story, it's the details.

Yesterday was the bday of the Youngest. He got some snack-type gifts from us. The middle Son came by early that morning and got breakfast from Wendy's for us all. We also bought a Warcraft account for the Youngest, and paid the additional fee to transfer his character from my account to his new one. Though it is a monthly subscription we are paying, I did a recruit-a-friend option, and will receive a free 30-day period about every 3-4 months on my account. And some other bonuses. We sat down and set it all up under his email, etc, and he was excited. He will now be able to do stuff online with me and his brothers now, whereas before he could not, unless I was not on. We are trying to find a night when both the older Sons are not working to do a bday dinner.

I think this afternoon I am going to be mellow. Think I may head to the pub, do some reading, enjoy some beer. The monies did come through the other day. Just waiting now to see if the mortgage and insurance companies need to refund us anything. That could take up to 45 days. The Wife and I are starting to look for newer vehicles. Might have that going on for a couple weeks.

PeacE

Dust in the Wind

 I sort of feel that way today. The Wife and I talked last night, and we came to the agreement I really have no choice but to pay the extra money to get the birth certificate. Even with the time frames given, it could still be quicker than having to wait for SSA offices to re-open and get in there to do that replacement. This morning I was still feeling weird about having to do that, and did some more research. I found if I mail in an application with fees, there is only a 45 day waiting period. The way I read the statement, that is NOT "on top of" the 25 days regular procedure time. And it's at a lower rate. So I think I will go that route. Still looking at 2 months... but could still be faster.

Tomorrow starts the 3-day Labor Day Weekend. For us it is not much to celebrate, except for my birthday falling on the weekend this year. Saturday night. our family with all kids (plus) will be going to dinner. Not necessarily for my birthday, just so we can all get together. As usual we pick up the tab. I am thinking Country Boys, so it will be a bit cheaper than say Garcia's.... save a few bucks at least.

Sunday evening I will be up at the pub and have let several friends know I will be there. Some I haven't seen in awhile. I did try to do something nice, and invited the Sis, Stuman and RM. RM said they might show for a soda, but I would not be surprised if they did not come, or if they did, did not stay long.

Monday will be just a regular weekend day for us. No get together plans. I had planned to work part of the day... but hey, you heard about that already. I am sure part of Sunday and Monday will be spent visiting the Daughter and family. The Wife and Daughter will take the Doodad and go shopping at some point I am sure. The SIL and my boys will probably all get together Saturday night after dinner and play these board games they like. Not like Sorry or Monopoly... this are more complicated. I tried a couple times, and I just have a hard time with playing them. Gives them all bonding time though.

Welp, I guess that is all I have for now. I may or may not write this weekend, so have a good time if you are not back until Tuesday.

PeacE

Sneaking Out

This weekend, my Grand daughter, Doodad, celebrated her 3rd birthday. As a responsible adult, and loving Papaw, I snuck the family out of town and down to Tucson to spend the day with the birthday girl. Yesterday was a good day with family, even though it was a group of more than 5 of us. The oldest Son even came down as well, so I had my family all together. It was good to "catch up" on all the things going on in my kids lives, and the celebration for Doodad was fun. I even got in a picture voluntarily with my two older Sons just to show off their beards....

The boys are 21 on the left, 17 on the right. That's my old, fat self in the middle. The 21 said he just trimmed his down for work, since he just got promoted into management, and the 17 said he has only been letting his grow since Spring Break (about a month ago). I've had mine growing for over a year.

Needless to say, the return trip home was uneventful, and any trap the Containment Police tried to set up did not work. Everything pretty much returns to normal today.

The only important thing i need to do today is set up the youngest's follow-up appointment so he can get the arm casted. I was surprised the hospital, nor the provider, called on Friday to check up on him.

PeacE

Monsoon Season Blows

It is Monsoon season here the desert valley. Due to some stupid reason, this season is June 15th through September 30th. Either way, right now we are in the thick of it. The humidity has been high, and with temps nearing 110 it makes my warehouse pretty miserable. I'm pretty tired of sweating all day.

I don't have much to share today. Still working on moving between houses. My car is considered totaled, and I'm only getting about $3700 out of it. Guess I'll be hitting craigslist once the check gets here. Still haven't had any good job offers. Current job is definitely taking a toll on me physically and mentally, but nothing I can do about it at the moment except quit.... which I can't afford to do. Sigh.

Middle son turns 17 this next week. Doing our birthday dinner tomorrow night at the place he chooses. All I know right now it is going be steak, steak, or probably steak.My guess is Lonestar..... We bought him a Hurdy-Gurdy playable build-it-yourself kit for his present. He likes some band on youtube that uses this instrument, and thought it would be something he could build and play since he has mastered a number of instruments. Hope he likes it.

Been a couple weeks since I saw my Doodad. Never thought I would miss like I find myself doing every now and then.After all, I am not raising her, or even live with her... must just be that Papaw thinking or something. Was hoping to take a trip down there today, but I had to work a few hours, and their plans were busy enough I didn't want to burden them with us coming down. Maybe they can make it up next weekend....

Guess that is about all I got for now...

PeacE

When It Rains, It Pours

Labor Day weekend has come and gone. With it, my birthday showed up. Saturday night, we did a family dinner out for my bday at one of our favorites, a place called the Black Bear Diner. My birthday, being Sunday, the Wife and boys went to church, and I went up to the pub to hang out for awhile. An hour or so after being there, I found out some movie company was there shooting some scenes for some mafia boss-type movie. No one well-known was going to be there, but supposedly the movie stars Nicholas Cage and Mila Kunis. I guess the scenes they were shooting that day were more about the bad guy and some bar scene. I watched a couple of them. One guy, I'm guessing the one in charge of extras, heard it was my birthday, and if I stayed long enough, he would get me in a scene "close to the action" as an extra, but it didn't work out. I waited for him to get me, but he never did. On their way out he sort of apologized, saying he hadn't realized til some of the regular guys were there, that I was a bit bigger than they, and would appear more intimidating than they were. Great.

Either way I still had a fun time. The Wife and I went to dinner at Black Angus, a little more expensive steak place for those that don't know of them. Good birthday. Monday, Reverend Mother came by with some cookies, leftover home made potato salad and some 'white girl' salsa Sis had made. And some cassette tapes she had at home she thought I could listen to in my truck, since I griped about the radio last time. Then the AC at the house went out.

Tuesday I got AC repair to the house, supposedly fixed it. Some board had some scorch marks on it but covered under warranty (yea!) but when the Wife got home last night, it still isn't working. She and the boys stayed over at the MIL's, I stayed home as I had to rise early and get to work. No idea when we can get the AC repair back here as they want access to the thermostat inside, but with our schedules, we may have to wait until the weekend.

This morning, already frustrated with some work issues from Monday, the AC not working, a night sleeping in warm house (it is 7am, and only 91 now, but was up 98 last night at like 9pm), I got up early and headed to my truck. There is a nice large puddle of coolant underneath. The garage my shop uses is in East Mesa, in other words, across the valley (about 35 miles one way) so no way am I able to drive it there with this issue. The garage doesn't open until 7:30 (it was about 6:20 at this point). I called my boss, gave him the heads up. He has the number for the owner of the garage, and within a few minutes, both of them calling me, we got a tow set up.

Tow company calls. They are based in East Mesa, and with morning rush hour, it will take them 1-2 hours to get here (which is about right - takes me about 50 minutes to go to the garage prior to morning rush when I take it in for maintenance. Then I am to ride with them to the garage to pick up a company loaner van (we keep a couple there for this situation with out tech fleet). That will be at least another hour. Then I can got to work (about 15 mins from the garage). I might make it in by 10:30, when I started the day planning to be there at 7:30. In the meantime, I get to sit here in this warm house, waiting for the tow, prattling on about how frustrated I am with all the problems happening to me right now.

At least I have cookies .... for breakfast.

Lunch on Thursday morning with Preacher Tom ... unless more bad stuff happens.

Thanks for reading my rant.

PeacE

A Day of Rest

Sunday. No football. Nothing on my agenda except chilling and relaxing pretty much. Work wore me out pretty much this past week, with the high humidity and temperatures we are having. Got some rain, but never long enough to cool things off good. Friday was the middle son's birthday, so I took him out yesterday to see about letting him pick out a bday gift(s). Ended up with a couple books, and I okayed a digital purchase of a game he wanted for the PC. Took all afternoon and night to download, but started up good this morning. He is anxious to play it, but won't be able to until after church (where they are now). Did the Texas Roadhouse for his dinner out selection. I love their fried pickles.

Today is also the Reverend Mother's birthday. I texted her once I was up this morning, and sent her another happy bday on Facebook. I screwed up though and have not gotten a card for her as of yet. Maybe I will remember to get it done next time I am out and about. I'm just so bad at remembering to do things like that anymore.

The Boys start back to school Monday. Back to the early mornings of running the oldest to band. Everyone is pretty much ready for school. The middle one I will take in on the first day, as the bus route they have him on is not the one we want. Since he will ride to/from the MIL's house, he will need to be on a different route. We have had to do this for each of the kids almost every year once they got to Jr High and had to take a bus.

Guess that is about all I got at this time.

PeacE

Beat Up and Broke Down

I am so glad that today is Friday, and the end of my work week. For some reason, I am hurting more than what I usually do. Must be old age, right? No. I am sure it isn't. More like being clumsy. I have had some tendinitis going on in my right elbow, and though it hurts, I can usually manage the day by using some OTC ibuprofen. However, last Monday, I slipped coming out of the shower, and without going into much detail, ended up catching the edge of the door jamb against the back/outside of my right shoulder. Luckily I didn't fall, but ended up bruising the muscle in my shoulder. So lifting things this week has been hard, but I have managed. So my right arm/shoulder have been achy a bit more than usual, and the back, well, I think it has been hurting more just do to compensating for lifting with the sore right arm. I'm not a doc, but I am pretty sure I am right.

And today, is a double-duty day for me, meaning I do two days worth of parts pulling, rather than the usual one. So a longer day. Joy.

Swung by the Reverend Mother's last night. I guess she had spent the evening before with my niece, and they had made some pies. RM had asked me the night before if I wanted one, a cherry, and I had said yes. Also, she had picked up a Redskins hat for my birthday (and some beef jerky, and a candy bar) for my presents, though I told her not to get me anything. Mothers (eye roll). I was too tired last night to try the pie, so am looking forward to trying some tonight. It sure looks good.

Yesterday was 9-11, and many people shared there thoughts/events of what happened on that day thirteen years ago. I thought about sharing, but then realized, who would care? I thankfully did not know anyone in any of the events, that died, though I did know at least one person that FEMA had called up from AZ to help with the clean up in NYC. Was I upset at the time? No. Mad? No. Feeling the need for vengeance? Maybe a little, though I didn't know against who (at that time). I heard radio call-ins that talked about how they prepared for the end of the world, even here in AZ. What's I do? I went to work. Nothing changed for me.

Heartless? Maybe a little. Apathetic? Most definitely.

PeacE

Happy Birthday to Me

Today is my birthday. I turn 43 years of age today. To quote Jon Davis (the cartoonist that does GARFIELD) "Color me unimpressed."

Special plans for this "special" day? Not really. Maybe lunch with the family out somewhere. Was thinking Fuddrucker's as we haven't been there in awhile. Maybe go out for a few drinks later tonight. I don't know for sure.

What I do know, is that I didn't get to sleep in this morning. My bladder woke me at 4am, yelling at me something about having to pee. Once that was accomplished, I couldn't get back to a regular sleep, so just lay in bed and cat-napped. That whole bladder thing ... I guess at this age I should be getting used to it, right?

The Wife was up early to take the Oldest son to get some blood work done at the lab. He had been to see an allergist earlier this week, and he wanted some additional work done. It all has to do with his allergic reactions to bee stings. He gets it from his momma's side, because I never remember having huge swellings when I got stung as a kid .... just saying.

Welp, since it is early (for a Saturday) I guess I should go surfing for free stuff for my birthday.

PeacE