Couldn't stay down.

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A bump in the night?  Too warm?  Not sure.  I listened intently, after waking.  If something woke me, it didn't occur again, or any other noise.  Sassy wasn't up there.  I was rather warm though.  Hot, really.  I do believe, when I go to bed, I'll limit the electric blanket to an hour.  Just dial it back before I crawl in.  It is wonderful, for a short bit.  But too long and, even three layers up, it gets far too warm.

The simple goal is to cool off, then get back to bed before long.  A disrupted sleep isn't the best, but I'll work with it.  I do believe it is near the end of blogging.  If something comes up, say a project I need to sort in my mind, I may write about it as it occurs.  But, really, I think I have said all I can say.

People aren't visiting, and I can't blame them.  There is no cavalry coming, enemies maybe but no one who reads here could do anything about anything.  So, as I mentioned, I am going to, through time, slow down my posts until I ease off the pedal and just begin to drift.

Heck, I am suspecting... hoping?  House thieves are using this blog to get a jumpstart if they gather I will be out for this or that.  They have a key, or keys, or even alternate ways in.  They just need to know when to break in, preferably when I am gone or very deep in sleep.  If... that only works if I forget the inside locks, which I don't usually miss lately.  I have definitely cut down on thefts, but not eliminated them altogether.  Some people cannot be negotiated with.

Since I am up, I hit the dishes.  Just gave things a quick scrub.  They were already washed, just... I wanted them to be hit once more.  Then, hopefully, a shower before long.  Then, I'll give the water heater a break, clear and clean the freezer top, then at least put the dishes back in for a rinse.  If I can rinse, dry, and set out, that would be better.

Until I can do something, I'll game for a bit.  Perhaps set an alarm for a couple of hours.  Then hit whatever I can do.  Dry off as things rinse.  Hitting the freezertop at some point, as well, if possible.  Yea.  Or... not.  We'll see.  Later.  

Made it.

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19:19, and it's almost time for bed.  I turned the electric blanket on earlier, but I think it has timed out.  I'll reset it shortly, watch a few videos until half after, then go on to bed.

Alarms, police I think.  One or two, and another one?  The first two seemed to shut of closer?  Or did they just zip through?  Hmm, nope.  The third one just turned off it's sirens really close.  Hmm. unusual.

Not much to eat today.  Three cups of kefir, two fatted coffees (or one), two ounces of cheese and two ounces of salami, eat baby carrots, and that was it.  If I can't do much work, I try to cut consumption.  Doesn't help, all that much.  But it doesn't hurt.  I may not lose weight, but I don't gain it.

Mostly just gaming.  Though, I did get kefir filtered twice.  I did switch then wash the big jars, and will be looking for small jars next, hopefully tomorrow.  I refresh water.  I think I need to refill the reservoir.  I have fed Sassy, and tended her litter box.  Will check the reservoir again, and check her litter box one last time.  And, I did make the bed this morning.  Not... perfect.  But something.  If I had a home keeper, to dole out a few orders, I might be able to do more.  As is, I sort of get lost with all the things needing to be done.  I can't keep up, solo.  This isn't my area of knowledge, or even concern.

Maybe a bit tomorrow.  Dishes, the jars, a shower.  Perhaps boxes, or some.  My heart is still a bit... tired.  I'll have another kefir, and take aspirin with it.  Then on to bed.  Should sleep well.  Goodnight.

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As I was up, doing a few last things, I was able to see what was using it's alarm, this time, time, time, time?  I think there were four vehicles using alarms.  This last one was a fire truck.  Turned off the highway, to a side street juxtaposed to my corner.  As for sirens?  They were only using those to alert traffic, then turning them off?  Strange, but okay.

Couldn't see how far they went, and their sirens were turned off, lights still flashing.  I may find out, or not.  Now, or very close, on to bed.  Bed should be warm by now.  Just want to let the water carafe fill, then refill the  reservoir.  Maybe go to the bathroom, if I think I can.  Then to bed.  

Didn't go down.

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Won't, either, for a while.  Waiting for the packages.  Doubted they would arrive.  They did.  But, not until just now, nearly fifteen hundred.  Exhausted, from pushing to remain awake.  And, yet, I don't want to sleep until later, or I'll potentially lose my day/night schedule, which is back in... some order.  Improving at that.

Wasn't being particular, about delivery.  One of the items arriving was a bit of a hope and a prayer.  I have two sets of a particular tool.  Yet, the one thing I needed from those wasn't there.  I have done a lot of shopping around, but without the size, and definite shape, I just couldn't be sure what I was ordering would have what I needed.

One of the security bits.  Too small for the medium to large set, to large for the small set.  Worse, I couldn't tell if it was hex, star, or one of the others.  That was supposed to be in today.  It was, and... it did!  It was a star security, second from the smallest of there normal sizes... so right in the fringe zone on most sets.  Finally.

I had purchased a travel iron, a Rowenta.  So I had paid a pretty penny.  But, after the failures of tools, I had gotten angry and bought another.  Still, I thought I could, possibly, fix it.  To some extent, I have.  Not sure if it works as intended.  But it works.  I am thinking of offering it to a newlywed couple.  Might not be perfect, but it is a quality item, with just a minor hitch.  Plus... it's... fun to fix things, or try.

It has a push-button handle release.  I had pulled that too hard, not realizing it had a button.  The way I pulled it got it stuck.  So, now, it... works without the button pressing it used to require.  So, honestly?  I think I fixed too problems, to be honest.  Tada!  :p  I don't think the push button has any other use.  Come to think of it, I may try that with the other iron.  Pushing that button is irritating.  Then again, If I pull too hard, it might break in other ways.  Not sure this works until it is tried sooner or later.  Bleh.  Maybe I won't test my luck with a second jamming pull.

Out of protein powder, that arrived.  And, paper plates.  I finally placed an order, for two containers, which arrived, both of them, and on time.  Not at the lower price, but that was never going to show.  But not at the higher price, either.  

Merchants, manufacturers, and bureaucrats are trying to price people out of buying things.  Then, when people stop buying things, they panic.  Trying to squeeze blood out of what is becoming stones, while paying them less and less.  This will fix itself.  I am stopping buying.  Won't stay with too much cash, but won't buy many goods.  Replacements, as necessary.  But not always then.  They have pushed too far.  Even if I have it, at this point, with low quality and high prices, I will go without some things as they break.  Or get used but are too expensive to replace.

I think they thought they could rob sunup to sundown forever.  That's... just not going to work.  Nor will I keep my wealth in fiat.  Not with zero interest at these inflation numbers, especially knowing inflation is three to five times what is printed.  I'll repair more often, myself.  Or just go without.  Tools, in this case, are your friend.  So, not only did I get a bit of practice, I have a few more tools.  At fourteen types of bits, 135 total, from high standard to as small as they make them, I have a bit more access.  I like that.

Still, have to be awake a few more hours.  Gotta make it to eighteen hundred.  Maybe nineteen or twenty hundred, if I'd rather be to be earlier.  Redid kefir.  Put them in new clean jars.  Washed the big jars I had been using.  Tomorrow, or something this week, I'll get a few quart jars cleaned and put into action.  I have learned, to a degree, how to use more or less kefir grains to speed and slow fermentation.  So, I think I can do this without losing or slowing production.  I'm trying to drink between three and four glasses a day.  

A good day.  Just so tired.  Up earlier, down a bit earlier yesterday.  Hopefully down a lot earlier tonight.  Just until I can cut sleep to eight hours again.  Even then, I'd rather be up at four, so to bed by no later than twenty hundred.  Give or take.  Later, or goodnight.

Crashing.

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Coffee helped.  Not enough to last the day.  Fighting it, losing.  I don't think I'll be able to stay awake very much longer.  If I make it to noon, I'll be doing good.  Don't think so, will try until I fail.

UPS says a few things should be in today.  I have doubts, being Saturday.  If they have hired seasonal extras, to this point, it hasn't shown.  Though, maybe they aren't bringing them in, this year, until much later?  That could be.  Regardless of what some suggest, I don't think sales have been good.  Not in stores, not online.  No one has money.

Those who are working have children living at home.  Even if they are working, they simply aren't earning much, and have few prospects for actual advancement.  Most know they are in a bind.  Money just isn't there anymore.  Well, add on credit already mostly tapped?  Yeah.

You can't overcharge for food, housing, energy, and undercut kids, plus pay equal pay for unequal work, and expect life to work out.  Those getting underpaid and overworked simply slip out the back door and leave companies to hire more and more inferior workers to cover more and more demand for actual function, with fewer and worse employees to choose from.

They say six million men have dropped out of the employment rolls.  My guess is that was so 2020, maybe 2021.  Now?  Twenty or thirty million men just aren't there.  They can get buy with bits of work, without being daily drivers, without a lot of things.  Just... dropping out.  Equal pay for unequal work is going to destroy the economy.  On top of everything else going on.  Men can live on near nothing.  Can the economy live on near nothing, as to labor?  I guess we'll find out.  Women did say they wanted to be equal.  When everyone is in mud huts, everyone will be equal.  From Gates to Musk to Biden.  And it is coming.

They really thought they could just keep draining some dry, and giving that to others.  I think that is completely at an end.  Oh, they have stores tucked away.  Will last for a while.  Then... then hitting bottom.  Not even an option at this point.  Looking forward to it?  Not it, specifically.  What may come after, perhaps.  They wanted a reset.  I don't think they planned well.  Thought they could give that, wouldn't have to endure it.  But, like an idiot who cuts the branch they are standing on, closer to the tree than they are, things aren't working out.  But they just keep doubling down.

Later.

Painpills helping?

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Hmm, no.  I don't think I do any last night.  Meant to take more aspirin, forgot.

To bed at 21:30.  Awake at 3:00, then 6:00, 6:01, 6:xx.  I finally took the hint at 6:06.  Gah!  Not sure what that was about.  I have not, to my recolection, had such a weird wakeup.  I thought I was sleeping a long time between checking the time, and rolling ack over.  But it was a minute or two per check.  Annoying.

No, I really didn't quite want to wake up.  I wanted to sleep.  Obviously I couldn't.  I was getting sore from rolling over, contorting to obtain the alarm clock, and checking it.  I really had no choice.  Awake, though, mostly.  Well, maybe not.  It's almost 7:00 and I am still really sleepy.  Coffee!  Maybe.  I'll get some.  And some kefir.

I looked out the front door, for no particular reason.  An owl, hooting, softly.  A dog barking, lightly, too.  I don't think they were involved one with the other.  Though, maybe.  I think critters talk, or just chime in, from time to time.  I was looking at the sidewalk.  It had gotten a bit of snow the other day, last night?  It is gone now, mostly.  Some snow on the driveway, but the sidewalk is mostly clear.  Was going to need to get to that, otherwise.

Dreams.  Many.  Flying, my old way, at nearly the speed of light.  Only slower so that I could get to destinations on the earth.  Too fast, and overshoot is likely.  Though, in another dream, leisure flights.  Just... up there, flying around, as an otter playing in water.  On my stomach for a bit, on my back for a while, doing barrel rolls, and else.

And dreaming of mice.  They are back.  I have some options.  Will get on those, today.  But, first, coffee and kefir.  Hopefully dishes and a shower before long.

Dreaming of women, again, too.  I like those.  It really isn't about sex, but that... can't be denied as a part of the operation.  Why be interested without the differences.  Though, that takes care of itself.  Proximity, in a home, it's... a natural event.  While not the whole thing, or a massive thing of all the things, it is a crucial element.  But, no, it is the relationship.  Both putting up with each other, and figuring things out about each other, and our differences and similarities.  It was a fine dream.  This time, mostly, regarding other things, other than sex.  Women are annoying, but I'm not sure I would always want it the other way.  Sometimes?  Sometimes I get my wish, just not... always?  *grins*

Well?  On to coffee and kefir, waking, then hopefully a bit of work.  Later.

On to bed.

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Couldn't really do much.  Kept hoping I would get enough going so as to do dishes, get a shower.  Just... didn't... couldn't... happen.  Maybe tomorrow.  I do my best, it just... sometimes there is nothing to offer.  At nearly 21:30, it's bedtime.  Then again, it isn't 2:00, or even midnight.  But I am absolutely ready for bed.

Sassy is on the verger of hangry.  But, she has hard food and plenty of water, so she can't whine too much.  Canned cat food is just getting to expensive.  Though, between treats, attention, and the hard food, she... survives.  :p  I love that little furball.  And, she is... learning to put up with me, and a little less of her favorite things.  There for a while, she was a bit... almost... hating.  But she has gotten over it.

I haven't been able to eat much myself.  I would like to eat.  Food just isn't tasting good.  A lot more kefir, as much as is possible.  But that is getting bitter.  I need to rinse out the grains (with r.o. water), wash a few quart and half gallon jars, and change those in.  Bitter is okay, but too bitter is just too bitter.

The extra items did allow me to be a bit warmer.  I enjoyed the day, even if I couldn't do much.  I did clean a few small things, put the new spatulas in to wash, turned over the kefir, and let folk know what I needed this week, and a few details.  I will have a few aspirin again, tonight.  That... really helped smooth things out.  Was it the pain relief?  Or did it help my heart?  I just can't say, with certainty.

I should sleep quite well.  I hope you do as well.  Goodnight.

A difficult day.

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Just staying awake is a bit of a trick.  Tore the bed down, to air it out, this morning.  So a nap would require a bit of work.  Then again, it is just a minute away from 16:00.  Another hour, or two, and going to bed would be fair enough.  Any hopes of work today were dashed fairly quickly.  I did get the kefir reset.  Not that that is much, but it was something.

As well, keeping up on Sassy, her hunger and litter.

The temp, indoor, is reading 69, as usual.  But it seems a lot colder.  I may add a jacket to else.  The things is, I have... get up and get the jacket.  It's possible.  I have to get the bed set back up, and made, anyway.  Perhaps make a fatted coffee.  More for something warm, than for a food item.

I received some of the new things, for the month.  A scarf type bib.  I'm not a terrible eater, but not great at it either.  I am tired of spots on my shirt.  And, a few pins to hold it in place.  The pins?  Not so much.  I'll see if I have larger bobby pins, or such.  Safety pins?  Yes, that.  I'm not sure bobby pins would help, or that I would have any... unless mom or some other woman left a few.  I think I found a few from the last occupants?  Maybe.  And I may have ordered a few, for some project that may or may not ever have gone forth... but the notion of which has been lost in time.  Perhaps just to see if they could be used to pick locks?  Not sure.  I think I have a few, or more, somewhere.  Still, not sure they would work in this application.

The other items were more fish flipper spatulas.  If these work, I will toss all of my standard spatulas.  Too thick, too dull, not good for much.  But, these?  These I like.  I have two larger ones, but two medium and t wo small ones.  Each has, I think, a better place.  The big ones are great for hash, not so good for eggs.  As well, I got a tonged fish spatula.  I am curious how well that will work... more along the medium to small size.  May have to see if I can find fish that has been caught, and processed, in American waters, by American companies.  I have doubts about finding those affordably.  Anything from China has probably had their "farmed" fish added in.  Even their own people avoid their own food.  Have to dump it somewhere.

But, these spatulas work just about anywhere, on anything, and so much better than standard spatulas.  I tried the Chinese scoop type spatulas, too.  But those just don't have the length.  And the sides of the scoop, like a grain shove, are great... for some things, terrible for other things.  Particular?  If I have to cook, I want to cook with the tools which work.  Now the Chinese dippers, and strainer dippers, are superior to most things like them.  European knives, though, all the way.  Or Japanese... some Japanese knives.

As well, I finally got a stainless juicer which satisfies my wants, in the right materials, and large enough to do more work at once, if needed.  Those are, actually, my Christmas presents.  I like to cook.  I like tools which work, to my mind, and will get them.  I'll be getting rid of a bunch of kitchen tools I have tried.  After testing these out, anyway.  But I think so.

On to getting the bed made, readied, and the electric blanket on.  Then something warm to drink and a bit more warm outerwear to put on until bedtime.  Good day and very possibly goodnight while I am at it.  

Up, awake, nicely.

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Mostly.  There are minor aches and pains.  But this is the first morning I haven't felt like I was a car wreck on waking in... three or four days now.  All good though.  If I could push to feel like that more often, I would.  Actually, when I recover a bit, I am going to try to hit it again.

We got a bit more snow last night.  An inch, two?  Some of it melted off, probably left with an inch, inch and an half... by the looks of things.

If we get a big snow, I'd finally like to get the snow shoes out, and in use.  As well, I may see about putting up the hammock, and testing the zero degree underquilt, and the rest of my kit.  I have a multistage sleeping bag that is supposed to be good down to -20 F, on it's own.  Between them, they should be able to handle serious cold.

At first, not so sure.

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The mixture didn't smell like bleach.  Very strange.  I am sure I used the right amount.  Let it sit for a while.  Shook it a few times.  Just... didn't smell like bleach.  Then, I had an application I would normally use bleach at.  I used the mix, and let it go for a while.  I checked it several times.  Initially, and after an half hour, it didn't smell like bleach.  But, after an hour, or two, it did.  Not that means it is working.

The telling will be after it has been rendered inert.  Then how clean the application areas smell.  There should be a sense of it having worked, or not.  Might have to increase the dose, just a tad.  Don't know.  Will find out shortly.

Set a roast going, pork.  Hopefully to be dinner.  Supper?  Supper.  Salt, pepper, italian seasoning, garlic powder, and fresh onion sliced on top.  Nothing fancy, though more onion than usual.  It's a big roast, and the onion is sort of timing out.  I want to get that batch used.

I keep forgetting aspirin.  That may, or may not, help with the tired heart.  Worth a shot, I think.

I am hoping the kefir will be ready to switch over later tonight.  Using the oven will help.  Would like to hit dishes before long, at least to then drain them, get a shower, and put them to a rinse.  Maybe tend the freezer top tonight as well.  I've been having trouble keeping up on kefir, with the water heater troubles.  Done... okay though, in spite of it.  Just... not quite as much as I would have liked.

I'd really like to try to get the dishes through, so I can wash a few canning jars, of various sizes.  Initially to consider switching out big kefir jars, as they are becoming crusted with kefir, which becomes more bitter over time.  Even more bitter than I prefer.  And, possibly, to begin, next week, canning ghee... making and canning.

Then, sometime next month or the month after, begin canning ground beef, and maybe other meats.  We'll see.  But I'd like to get a dozen or three cans of meat put up by March, or April at the latest.  Can't work fast, or hard.  And am in a bit of a bind from the work this week.  Had to call and change some plans...  too tired, a bit pained, sore heart.  Next week.

But, I'll... keep at things.  I have done alright, getting ready for hard times.  Just a few more things, and I think... it'll... work out, I'll be slightly more ready.  Every month, I am getting closer.  Preparing for even harder times.  It's going to get worse, and no with any power cares.  As long as their nests get feathered.  Later.

Never quite sure.

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I don't mind making my own bleach.  Using it for purifying drinking water?  That I am not so sure about.  Why?  Well, they seem to hide what the extra ingredients are.  If those extra ingredients are fungicidal, algicidal, or both, those are poison for humans too.  As to strength?  While that might be a slight issue, in an short term, in the longer term that will take care of itself.  Bleach simply breaks down over time.

So, I will make bleach, for laundry and cleaning uses, with the pool shock I have.  But I won't use that for water preservation.  Oh, and something a lot of people don't seem to realize?  Water is only good, if treated with a non algicidal or fungicidal bleach, for about a year.  After that, things will begin growing in there.

As well, putting water in old milk jugs, soda jugs, and such?  Even if sheltered in a dark space... a closet, basement, or such?  Beside the potential leaching of plastics and other chemicals, those containers only last, perhaps, a year.  They do break down.  I've tried to tell people, but... they... just don't believe.  Well, until they end up with a mess.  Of course, for some reason, they are angry at me for my warning.  I just don't get some people.

Oh, how do I identify, and what are my pronouns?  Conspiracy theorist, and I/told/you/so.  *smile*  Yea, I... finally went with the gig.  Probably not in a way that makes the little faeries happy, but... so!  I'll say it again, I/told/you/so!  Ha!

Anyway.  The variances in measurements are pretty large.  Anywhere from 2/3rds teaspoon to a heaping teaspoon per gallon to make regular bleach and (if it is legit, non algicide or fungicide) from a pint per 12.5 gallons to half a cup for five gallons, and... others.  Though, to a degree, it depends on if it is pure calcium hypochlorite or cut with inerts.

Anyway, since mine isn't pure, I'm going with the higher amounts.  Then to figure out how to store the rest of the bag.  But, yes, finally, I will be making my own chlorine.  Why?  Have you seen the price of chlorine at the store?  $12 to $15 a gallon!  I have some purposes that requires a bit more chlorine than usual.  Even one gallon a month really adds up.  And, making it myself?  I can probably cut that to around $2 to $4 dollars a year, and that one bag may well last four to five years if stored rightly.  So, yeah.  I'll do that.  Making my first gallon today.  Right after this post.

Do your own homework.  Consider what is important, what risks you want to take, and do it or don't.  I'm curious to see how it works out.  Hmm, may post a question online, see if the manufacturer will answer the question, as to whether the stuff contains algicide or fungicide.  Or, try to find a phone number for the manufacturer, and call them.  Would be very good to know if I can use this for water storage.  If so, I might put some water up.  After these last few days, I... remember that I forgot to store water.  Have to change it over yearly, but... worth it... I see, I see.

Later.

That was nice.

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Still playing the last two thirds of Witcher 3.  It is an extensive game.  More, I am replaying, on the most difficult setting.  Still, I keep thinking about what might be next.  So, I keep my eyes open.

There were two free games which caught my eye.  You get them, if you claim them... two or three per month.  This month I was amazed to see mass effect legendary.  It is a near total revision of all three of the first games.  Not sure if there was a fourth one?  But, it also included dlc (download content, add-ons to the game, and such).  Plus, for the first time, Carrying a 'toon through, the visuals are the same.  Before, you had to remake your 'toon every time.  Some of the game would carry through, but no visuals, as those improved, and new systems were used in character creation.

Now, with this game?  Because of flaws, or my poor social credit score, I was never able to finish the last two games.  They simply didn't work, game memory became corrupted, and no matter if I went back a bunch of saves, or tried to do it over from the start, I couldn't get through to the end of either of the last two games.  Huge waste of time.  I am hoping things have been fixed.  Hard to tell.  But, for free, I might try again.  I just don't have high expectations.  We'll see.

As well, I bought three games I have enjoyed, from the past.  The sum total was like $10 to $15?  Something like that.  Even if I don't care for the games, all of them, six games for that price, some of them I know I enjoy playing even if they won't finish?  And tons of play time.  The three games in one could easy eat four months in a straight playthrough.  Much more if I attempt getting all the trophies.  Six months?  Of rather steady playtime.  Though, to be honest, I would take time between games.  It is, or was, rather intense.

Why games?  Often that is the sum total of what I can do.  Sometimes not even that.  But, if I can't be physical, but can be awake?  These eat that time.  So... yeah.  Quite pleased with my finds this week.  There is another I am considering, but that costs $20 itself.  I'll... look it up before splurging.  Remember, I've paid double on mortgage this month, and am gifting my besty for his wedding as much as possible.  Some old, some new.  I just expect them to get busy.  Wanna see some rugrats, soon.  Business.  You know.  *grins*

Coffee is good, kefir has been had.  Might have more kefir.  Then on to gaming.  Not quite ready for dishes.  But... hoping that happens before too long.  I'll set an alarm for a couple hours.  See if I can get it then.  Oh, and take some aspirin, since I haven't taken other painkillers today.  Not for pain relief, hoping it will... relax the heart.  Though some extra pain relief wouldn't be horrible.  Later.

My heart hurts.

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Just tired, deep inside.  Exhaustion bruised.  I don't think it will kill me, but it will keep me down for a bit.  I'll be sitting, for a while.

Down, finally, at just before two, awake just after noon, small change differences.  Slept well.  Was warm.  Good signs.  It's when I go cold, can't warm no matter what the furnace is at, what clothes I wear, how well the bed is set... that is when I get a bit nervous.  As I have said a thousand times, if I have said it once?  Cold and death go together.  I've never died without becoming chilled beyond the bone.  Imaging being as cold as you can functionally tolerate, then being tossed into water which would be frozen if not for the salt content, then hauled out, and have a fan blowing on you.  Cold... like you have never known.  Ever feel that cold?  Fight or die.  Though, at that point, may not be much you can do.  Hold on?  Or hope they figure out what is wrong, fix it, and bring you back.  Blood loss was the worst.  None were pleasant.

So, I'm... okay.  Just pushed things.  But, I did succeed in my pushing.  The water is yet hot today.  For the first week after a repair, I... have doubts.  The doubts diminish in severity and frequency as time passes.  But I... keep my eye on things for the first month, then sort of let it go.  Mostly.  As is, every time I am near a faucet, and have a few moments, I check.  So far, so good.

Sassy has been fed.  I am keeping her to one can of wet a day, two or three treats of between a dozen and score, all the hard food she will eat (which isn't much), and all the water she can drink which more depends on how much hard food she eats.  So not much of either.  Oh, she begs so well, but I have been firm.  She has lost some weight.  She pouts, a bit.  But... that's fine.  Oh, this means that what was meant to be a six months supply, at two cans a day, will last double that.  If I can keep thieves out of the supply.  Next is cat litter.  But, for this, I will check local stores.  It looks like amazon companies are vastly overcharging.  Though, with delivery costs, I'm not sure how they are staying in business.  UPS has to be working with them.  Not going broke, but splitting on profits a bit.  Have to be.

Still, sometimes you get far better deals locally, sometimes not.  Some big mouth airtight canning jar lids on amazon were anywhere from $14 to $20.  They used to be half the lower cost.  In, shopping, the other day.  I found those at $7, less by medium change really.  I bought two.  And those are very light, small, should be cheap to ship.  Gouging.  But my stores gouge, amazon gouges, wallyworld gouges.  If you can sort what they are gouging on, you can sort things a bit better.  Pint, half pint, and half gallon canning jars, local, were a third to a quarter what amazon was selling.  I get that, with broken jars, and heavy shipping.  But the lids?  No.  Still, looking around and you can really get good deals, if it works out.  Just make sure the item can be sent back.  Check dates, and make sure everything works before the 30 day return runs out.  Bleh.

Trying to check everywhere, and keeping up on things, is difficult for us half-deads.  Still, I do my best.

Today?  I reset the dishes last night.  So, I want to clear and clean off the freezer top, get to dishes, set them out to dry, then get a shower.  Anything else is a maybe.  A load of laundry?  Two if I can push just a bit more?  Cooking a meal, probably just roasting a pork butt, small one.  If I can.  Got trash and recycling out earlier in the week.  Having been cooking, eating in, or such, so not much of that to do.  Bleh.  Mostly blogging, small chores, gaming, and resting.  Hoping my heart relaxes before too long.  I didn't' take aspirin last night.  Maybe today.  Maybe that will help.  Later.

Still awake.

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.

No choice.  My chest was pounding.  I have pushed things.  The accelerator got stuck, just a bit.  Have had to try to relax.  Gaming was even too much, but sleep wasn't possible, so I watched a... pseudo horror.  About a lion which got loose in Amsterdam.

Cheesyish.  But, reminds me of the horror from the '80s?  Or so.  When they were not great, but not horrible.  It was made over there, dubbed.  But, really, that sure beats captions.  I won't do captions, and they didn't do too badly with the dubs, to be honest.  It reminded me of my youth, the creature features, only without the political b.s. they were already stuffing them with back then.  Mostly.  A few very small references to the notion of grobal warbling, but they were even poo-pooed in the show, and rightly.  Such things as those.

I just remembered to reset the electric blanket.  I think I might end up to bed before long.  I like the chill just shoved away, when I go up.  I think it had turned off already.  I thought I would be to bed much earlier.  Just didn't, couldn't, happen.

I also reset the dishes, earlier.  The plan is to clean them, rinse them, dry them, then set them out tomorrow.  Then get a shower.  I won't be able to do much.  Those things, and perhaps cooking a roast?  Maybe.  I am... exhausted in ways which aren't good for me.  Pushed a bit hard.  Though?  I think pushing a bit too hard, from time to time, as able, is healthier than just sitting.  It might eventually take my life, but it will... do me more good, until then.  Even then?  Dying trying is better than living forever, choking on every breath.  Just... saying.

I did take a few painkillers.  Wanted to a few days ago.  Then decided against it.  Only taking it when I had finished.  I... have finished.  The nice thing?  I think the water is warmer than it had been.  At least the lower thermostat was timing out.  It didn't just stop all of a sudden.  It was slowing losing heat, capacity.

Actually, I may take a few aspirin tonight.  Not... for the painkilling properties, mind you.  But for what it can do for the heart.  It's... a bit rough.  All I can tell you.

Still, as mentioned, I am pleased with the effort.  Even if it kills me, I... did good.  I don't mind living, or dying.  As long as I can do a bit, here and there.  Be successful.  Work until it hurts.  Learn, experiment, figure, and come to good conclusions which sort out problems.  I... was born to solve problems.  It is what I do.  Always have.  Not always... appreciated.  That... isn't one of my problems, or something I can sort itself.  Limits.

Later, or most likely goodnight.

Done.

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.

By this time, the top and bottom elements and thermostats would have had time to rotate several times.  Water is still hot.  No leaks showing.  I am calling it done.

I would have showered already.  But I am absolutely bushed.  Sore, tired, exhausted, sleepy, worn, achy, with an headache to boot.  Worth it, but I'm... done.  I am hoping to get to bed before too long, and maybe get a shower tomorrow.  Dishes in the way.  I may reset those.  Then do them in the morning.  Then, at some point, get a shower.

I was hungry as a dog.  Couldn't cook.  Couldn't shower for a proper sit down meal somewhere.  So fast food.  There was a Christmas dinner, but I couldn't go without a shower, and clean clothes.  Might have had clean clothes, but couldn't get a shower.  I hoped to get one, just couldn't.

Didn't make the bed this morning.  Tore the bed apart, as it has to be remade.  But didn't have the energy to put it back together, yet.  I may do that now.  I hate having to make the bed right as I'm going to sleep.  On top of just wanting to sleep, when I get up there, it would be a cold sleep.  No, I'll... make the bed up.  Might even turn the heater on right then.  Not sure I'll be awake for very long.  Hmm, painkillers, too.  A fatted coffee and painkillers, to warm me, ease the pains, and get me to bed.

I am absolutely amazed that I was able to fix this.  I thought, perhaps, I could have fixed the one I replaced?  But, no.  That was because it had a metal tank, and the tank had been eaten through.  I suppose, with a welder, perhaps it could be repaired?  I have doubts though.  But, yeah, no.  That wasn't a matter of components.  Further, I don't have a welder.  Sure didn't then.  Very satisfied that I could and did fix it, without serious injury.

Later, or goodnight.

I think so.

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I was sweating it.  That pop, fizzle, crack, and small reams of smoke... made me nervous.  Still?  I can't afford a plumber, or electrician, or whatnot this month.  And a month without hot water is pushing it even for me.

Everything that panned out led me to a bit more.  First, no spraying after turning on the water.  No leaks.  So, on to removing the lower thermostat.  It was dry fore and aft, top to bottom.  The plate, the plate abutment zone, the fiddlies and else.  Dry clean through.  And, it was simple.

I didn't replace the upper thermostat.  I did run half a dozen crosswise tests.  I just didn't want to replace what wasn't needed to be replaced, for a dozen reasons.  I tested the elements, again, again.  Good.  Then I got the part, the lower thermostat, new, down.  Gingerly figured out how to get the shot, old, bottom thermostat out.  Clips, metal.  Still, was careful.  Pot metal, trash, easy to break, meant to break.  Got it out.  Looked over the new one, fitted it in, after checking three times for moisture, where it was to go.

Click.  Nice.  In.  Then I got the wiring set up.  Not so tight anything stripped, but right to the tightness it would go... shifting things, or trying to, to make sure there wasn't hidden space in the connections.  Good, all good.  Next?  To power it up.

Oh... I... really didn't want to do that.  Damned thing made me jump out of my skin last time.  Ah, but the breaker box had been on a screw.  That screw was too tight to remove the box.  But, where the box was, I couldn't open it to check fuses.  Bleh!  So, I loosened the screw.  It was too tight to put it back. I was barely able to get it off.  Just loose enough so that it would fit slightly snug.  I can take if off if needed, but it won't just bump off.  Done.

With that arranged, and else ready?  Snap!  Those fuse switches are loud and strong.  On?  It... didn't make any sound, or burp, gurgle, nothing.  I still had the multimeter down there.  I checked the voltage... 242?  Okay.  It is rated for 240 to 250.  Good enough.  I was sweating this whole time.

The reset button?  That is closer than I wanted to get.  But... so be it.  I clicked on it.  Nothing.  It didn't need reset.  I adjusted the temps, higher on top, lower on bottom.  The device only heats one element at a time.  And, with a temp difference, it causes the water to migrate.  It is supposed to be more efficient.  True?  Dunno, but... know that it will cause flow, in the tank, not a bad thing.  I think, to my mind.

So...  So?  I guess I just have to wait an hour and see.  Having even cold water back online in nice though.  *flush*  I had a bucket of water, since I have a sceptic tank.  Just add a bit of water.  But I was running out of that.  I hate leaving even pee in, though should have.  Only flushing every other time on that, and every bm of course.  But no.  Still, I have it back flushing.  Plus, I refilled the bucket in case I had to turn the water off.

I've got a nervous headache.  But, I think I did it.  I'll find out before long.  Plus, with the top thermostat probably running until it got to temp, I won't know about the bottom one until later.  And I won't know about the water heating at all for... what... an hour?  I'll check at about 17:00. perhaps an half hour after.

Nice, if it works.  Not even bad if it doesn't.  I have learned a lot.  Both good and bad lessons.  If often it's the bad ones that stick more definitely?  Later.

The elements are in.

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Those were much more difficult to install than anticipated.  The threads are tight, the rods go far into the tank, gravity is difficult to assuage.  Still, after a bit of practice, then doing the top one first (to make sure which way to even twist them in, as that ended up being easier for a number of reasons), I finally figured things out, got it in, the got the bottom one in.

To tighten without breaking, or leaving any sort of gap by which water may spray out.  A bit of a trick.  I think I did it.  I got them snugged, right up to where there was no more give... no more room to tighten.  I hope.  But, that... wore me out again.  Back to gaming for a bit.

And, to consider what to do next?  Either redo the electronics, then turn on the water.  Or turn on the water before tinkering with electronics?  I think I will turn on the water first.  If it sprays the old electronics, that won't be as much of a problem.  Those parts are being replaced anyway.  But, if the new parts got wet, getting them dry, for certain, might be a bit more difficult.  I will go down and put the new parts somewhere safe.  Maybe bag them and bring them upstairs, just to be extra careful.  Then, make sure the drain valve is shut, tight.  As well, I will open a few of the hot water faucets around the house.  Just... not in the bathroom.  That one is too likely too flood.

Then, out to turn on the water at the main.  And, check various things.  If it works, I will turn off the hot, then turn on the cold, faucets in order to pressurize the whole system.  If it gets wet, then I'll... have to sort that out, sometime in a bit.  I would have to turn off the mains water, again, and... just pout for a bit.  Then... tighten things up.  Actually, I would try to tighten things then and there.  I wouldn't turn off the outside water unless I couldn't close the leaks.  Bleh.

Why all this chatter?  Making plans, creating a decision making tree, being mentally prepared for good, worse, worst.  If all else fails, there is another option, if I'm not sure I can do it solo... installing the spare water heater.  Everything should work on that, and most of it, save emptying and moving the old out, and the new in, is rather straightforward... if only ever done once before.  I did that solo, but was ten years younger.  Bleh.

Well... I may just do the water, right now.  Uhrm, after bringing the parts up, opening a few valves, ensuring the drain valve is shut, and... I think that is it.  Well, and maybe checking the elements one more time.  A quick solid jerk at tightening, just... to try to be more certain.  Later.

-----------

So far, so good.  Dry where it should be.  Taking a while to fill, so I turned off the faucets.  For the time being I will just let the tank fill.  I am sure, by the time I checked, the bottom element was submersed.  Not the top one.  Getting there.  If all goes well, stays dry, then I can begin sorting the thermostats, getting the new ones installed.  Doing a few checks before even turning the panel back on.  Then checking after.  

Check, test, double check and test.  It's the only way.  Slow, easy, considered... one thing at a time.  Even so, failure is a possibility.  

Someone suggests becoming wolf.

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I... don't think so.

But there... is an option.

Something troubling.

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These last few months, orders through amazon have had to be canceled.  They get stuck, or lost, or...  Things going off the rails in there?  This month I have had to cancel six or seven orders... just this month.  Things are getting lost, or not sent in spite of being paid, and other problems.  Not sure if this is fuel costs, shipping prices, stealing of packages, the mix, and maybe more?

I am trying to get a few more things.  Shoes, mainly, in my size.  Before they are simply not available.  Of the four, I think, I ordered... to try... from last and this month, I have had to cancel three pairs, and try to order others.  We'll see.  One pair finally arrived.

It's not just shoes.  Paper towels?  Yep.  But the site went really weird.  First, it said one was delayed, due to bad weather?  I had ordered two, both made it to Logan, yesterday.  Only one was delivered.  I looked at the shipping, for the second one.  And it was changed from having arrived in Logan to being stuck in California?  Due to weather?  What?  Then, today, it... showed up.  So... obviously not stuck in California.  Had someone thought to swipe it, got caught, and had to deliver it?

Ordering two (or multiples of) items is proving... problematic.  Often they only ever deliver one, quite often.  I have had to get a return on many orders, going back up to six months.  I just won't order two items at a time, from now on.  Or in close time proximity.  I think their employees thing that if someone can afford two, they don't deserve two?  Crazy.

I don't thing commercial theft is only for box stores anymore.  I think amazon, possibly other online stores, are getting hit just as hard, or harder.  I've seen the amazon boxes, near train stations, or in various areas.  How can they possibly afford that.  Why aren't they pushing the police and whoever else.  That is totally unsustainable.  At least, for now, they are making sure (if you remember, and make contact) that you aren't charged for what you don't get.  But it is becoming a struggle to get items, definitely to get them in a timely fashion, or even to believe what is suggested on their site.

It's going to go full Mad Max sooner than you know it.  It's already getting pretty close.  Batten down the hatches and get ready.  The ride is going to get rough, and no government worker is on your side.  Maybe a few, if they are local, and know you.  Maybe.  But they may be limited, caught between their retirement and benefits, policy, what is right and wrong, and functioning justice/injustice.  Helping you, legitimately, may be a bad career move.  Watch it out there.  Later.

The struggle.

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To get out of bed was a nightmare this morning.  I am tired, I ache, sleepy, places hurt I had forgotten were places.  Even so, I have been pushing to get out of bed since... six?  seven?  The most I could do was roll.  I had used almost every ounce of energy to me, and then some, several days in a row not.  And, I have more to go.

I can't hit it first thing.  Sassy was fed.  I'm having a first kefir, and will have another after.  Litter boxes will be checked.  I'll spend time waking more fully, looking around, seeing what is happening.  Gaming a bit to waken even more fully.  Then I'll get down there.  Install the elements, wire the new thermostats and set them up.  Then turn on the water, see if I tightened the elements well enough.

The old elements weren't too bad.  I am guessing the only reason the one failed was because of the short.  Too much juice, too fast.  It was warped, twisted, difficult to get out for it's deformities.  The top one just slid out without touch the sides.  They are a bit... slimy?  Well, not slimy, as it turns out.  Coated with minerals, but it looked like slime.  Just, didn't wipe off, at all. Would chip off, but nothing of it, despite their appearance, wiped off.  I don't think the water is as hard as Iowa city.  The water heaters only last four years there, companies wouldn't guarantee them either.  This has been in around ten years, and the elements are still whole.  All good, just had been curious about that.

Then again, they have gone to fiberglass tanks, so the tanks themselves don't get eaten away, or even have sediment down at the bottom (I suppose unless the elements are allowed to rot completely).

We'll see if I can do this next part without spilling water everywhere.  And, I will be drying the areas very well on top of it, as well.  Sweating the details, but gotta.  If it works, perfectly, I'll have it set up and have hot water sometime today.  If not, tomorrow or even the day after if it sprays at all... wets the electronics again.  If that happens, I will leave the electronic parts out to air dry.  Dry under them, dry them the next few days, keep the fan going, and wait at least two days before installing everything back in.  Going to go slow, be careful, and hope... I guess.

It's 21 out there.  Could be worse.  Could be better.  Shouldn't have frozen, but never can be sure.  With the water off, there is no flow.  But, I do know how to thaw it, if so.  Ugh... I won't be able to get to it for a few hours.  I may take a chair down there, so I can sit while doing the wiring.  I've been standing far more than usual, and it's getting to my legs and back.  All good.

Another kefir, sorting litter, a bit of browsing, then gaming.  Then to it.  Later.

Some of it?

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Yes.  I got the thing drained.  There is still some in the tub, because there is a limit to how much water it can push through the hose and on out.  No major issue.  I would have had a lot more done, but I couldn't find the cheapy tool used to remove the heating elements.  I looked, and looked, and looked.  Rested, and looked more.  Trash?  No.  Upstairs?  No.  Downstairs?  I looked and looked.

Plum wore myself out.  Didn't want to take the elements off by the time I found it, but did anyway.  Further, I disconnected the hose, beforehand, and opened the drain valve, just to make sure.  It really did empty, right down to the bottom.  Very very good, and a bit surprising.  I expected a quarter of the tank to still be filled.  Nope.  Drops was all that came out.

I would love to pull the electronics, dry the area, and either leave it open or if it really is dry, to put the new electronics back in.  But... no.  Beside being two steps beyond exhausted, as much for the stupid search as for all else, I am not awake enough to know what I am doing or undoing.  Tomorrow, sometime tomorrow.

Pretty exhausted.

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I did get a hose in, from outdoors, as a waste line.  I had to warm the house a bit, to get it to become flexible enough to use.  Then got it attached.  Finally, I opened the drain valve at the base of the tank and let it go out.  It is slowly filling the tub.  I ran the pump several times.  But it empties a lot faster than the tub fills.  A couple of runs, just to make sure everything was working.

It is.  So, now, I am giving it fifteen minutes to drain.  Watching isn't going to make it go any faster.  And, if it spills, it spills.  I have some worries that the tank won't empty enough.  I guess I'll just have to find out.  I am sure, in time, it will dump enough to be below the top element.  After that?  After that I may just have to close it up, remove the hose, and let the water flow into a drain basin down there, and use the pump from there.

Tired, sore, sleepy, and really wanting a hot shower.  A bath would be a dozen times better, but that is so much work.

So far, no major spills or leaks or splashes.  The house does not tighten well, so that connection is spraying.  But that is well contained in the tub.  It isn't even sprinkling out onto the floor.  And, yes, it is getting the water out to about the middle of the lawn.  It'll freeze, but, it's winter!  It does that.  It has been snowing, thawing, and freezing, for this last week, off and on.  So no worries there.

Even so, I'll just have to see if I can get to the electrical yet tonight, or even the elements.  I think so.  But It'll be a late night.  Not much I can do about it.  Work, work, work, work, work.  At least this time I can get to it.  And I have the resources to work around having few resources.  It'll sort out shortly.  Or... not.  I may have to delay some things, miss some things, or not.  Will know when I know.  But this sort of work is really getting to me.

Oh, and I did try the valve down there.  The shutoff valve?  It has a little side tester valve.  Then again, the water is off outside.  Still, it wasn't pressurized.  I don't know if it will hold back the water though.  I think it failed at that, to some degree.  Will find out when I turn the water on outside again, next time.  Hard to know.

Last I saw, early into the dark, it was 28 out there.  Hopefully it hasn't gotten much colder since.  I did close the lid on the water shutoff valve, the outside one.  Just in case.  Though it may get a bit sticky anyway.

Way early, but I want to check the water level, run the pump.  See if it is continuing to drain or is finished.  Live and learn.  Later.

A visitor and research.

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Marrying, shortly.  Stopped by to check on the water heater problem.  Got some of what I got him for their new place.  Nothing sexy, just basics.  Seems strange, but...  Paper towels, paper plates, facial tissue, 250 quart and gallon ziplocs, and in bulk all.  Most of those things last six to twelve months, as a single ogre.  And more.  Not all of it was in.  Got them a start.  Well, and a few used things, slightly used?  My big older vac, and bags... a Viking knife set?  And, I may have a instapot for them.

Get them started well, get them ahead.  Offered a freezer.  They don't have room for that yet, but when they do, if they move before long, it will be there for them.  It's good to be ahead of the game.  Even if just for a few moments, once in a while.  Like when I was in the 5 1/2 rapids?  Getting air, just once in a while, and deep breaths?  Was golden.  That's... all we get, moments.

Oh, and I do have the pump down, a hose hooked up (though not yet flowing), the outside water turned off.  I didn't use a seven gallon bucket.  I took the 64 quart (16 gallon) holds-all down, and will use that.  Have a cast iron pan to hold the hose down.  But I need another hose for the outlet.  Always something.  As well, the parts and tools are down there, ready weather tonight or tomorrow morning.

Sort of wearing out.  But... hoping.  A last fatted coffee.  And, if kefir seems ready, I'll reset that shortly.  So many things to do.  And really need a shower.  Bleh.  We'll see.  I am doing... well beyond my expectations.  There are times were I have gone without hot water for a week, two?  Couldn't... get to it.  A few days isn't great, but it has been much worse.

Now I need a break.  Something to eat, or at least drink.  Then to a few things yet tonight.  I don't want to take out the electronics until all waterworks has been done and is all sealed.  And, if need be, more drying time.  I'll be much more patient with that.  If things get sprayed tonight, there is no way I will risk resetting it tomorrow.  Ugh...  I'll be careful, but there are limits as to what caution will prevent.

Still?  I'll... keep trying, I hope.  I'd really like to get the water pumped out tonight, drain the thing... empty, to the bottom.  And, maybe, pull the elements.  Put in the new.  But electronics?  As mentioned, I don't want to mess with those unless the operation is dry near those things, and if I can be awake enough to tinker.  Maybe.

Ugh.  Later, or goodnight.

A call a bit more research and?

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Checked up on mom.  I do worry about here sometimes.  A part of a dream last night caused concern.  Only just now remembered it.  Not sure which of us will go first, but I want to tell her she is loved before one of us can't.

A bit more looking about the odd pipe size.  Nothing new found.  I did, also review the parts kit.  Measured the heating elements themselves, and looked at the list of probably compatibility.  My brand is on there, the size, again, is right.

Now to start the game up, check the kefir, turn off the water to the house, get some things downstairs and ready, then play a bit.  Later.

Well, we'll see.

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I bought the whole kit.  No reason not to do so.  It was less expensive, and is probably due.  At worst, I will have spares.  If, most likely, it will all be needed.  As well, I did purchase a pump.  It isn't what I had hoped it would be, but it will do.  I may run a short hose to a 7 gallon bucket, and put the pump down in that.

As to a main shutoff inside?  Even more difficult than anticipated.  While the pipe is galvanized, it is of a very irregular outside diameter... 7/8ths.  They don't carry anything in that size.  Which means, even if I can get the whole pipe off, getting fitting for it might... be difficult.

I don't want to mess with that unless I am ready, with a solid plan in hand, and parts bought, all ready to begin trying.  Or getting a plumber in.  Get a quote.  Let them know, up front, that the pipe is irregular of size.  It might not be an issue for a pro.  Or it might be just as difficult for them as for me.  If I have a plumber in, and get a few quotes, I will also see about getting a series of sediment filters.  With the r.o., I don't need other things filtered out.  But I would like from say thirty then down to half or one micron... through two or three filters.  Why?  For one, the reason I am back to doing dishes in the tub is because the kitchen faucet has clogged on the hot side, again.  No reason to hit that all over again, because it will just clog back up, until/unless the silt, dirt, else, gets filtered.

I wonder if...

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This is one type of valve.  But honestly I don't trust them.  I much prefer ball valves.  However, I really wonder if they have compression ball valves.  One more look before I get on to coffee and gaming, to wake.  I need a break from research.  My mind is... spinning.  I will see about compression ball valves as a last bit before a break.

A bit of research done.

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Will check a bit more, in a bit.  Can only focus for just so long.

It looks like a pressure washer just won't work.  In a term, head pressure... the height a pump can lift water.  On a flat, or nearly flat, surface?  Some pressure washers might work.  With a ten foot lift not so much.

The problem with most pumps, is that they are submersibles.  Which, is fine, if you don't mind flooding your floor.  I would rather not.  Perhaps I have found one which can work that way, and another way.  Have to look it over.  Not certain.  It would be good to have the submersible, for other sorts of problems, but for standard events, want one with more options.

I'll get some coffee in me, finally.  Then make a call.  If that fails, then move on to other forms of research.  Well, and I'd like to figure out... beyond the parts needed and the pump, perhaps how to set up shutoff valves, and maybe a faucet down there.  So I wouldn't have to go out to shut the water off and drain the water upstream of everything, mostly.  Always going to be some water in there.  Always something.

Still, getting there.  Just... I have limits.  Later.

Earlier than anticipated.

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Between this and that, I could not get down until 23:45 on the nose.  So tired, but had to relax into sleep.  Too tight until then.  On the other hand, I slept well, solid, and long enough.  Awake at 6:00, but couldn't keep it.  Awake, finally, very shortly after eight.

Up, bed made, pee jugs rinsed.  No hot water, but it will do for the moment.  Sassy fed, I'll check her litter when I go to make coffee.  A kefir down.  And plans.

I will call the replacement part number, see if there is anyone on that end still.  And research a pump that will work with garden hoses.  Hopefully one with one of several sets of features, so it doesn't burn out.  I'm thinking, perhaps, one that can take a short hose, from the water heater to the pump, the push the water out from there.  I have to drain the tank in order to replace the parts.  At the very least, to replace the heating element.  And the bottom one is shot.  Though, if I am replacing the bottom one, I will just replace both.  Curious what they will look like.

If the device is the age printed on it (and not just first produced then), it is ten years old.  We have rather hard water here.  The tank is fiberglass, so it won't be as much of a problem.  Probably.  But the heating elements might be toast, no matter what else?  Will find out.

As well, I'll need, again, to turn off the water to the whole house, and drain as much as possible before hand.  I'd really like to get a couple of shutoff valves, ball valves, in the house.  Upstream of everything.  I think there are some, but they don't work.  There is at least one.  I'd like to have two.  Ball valves probably won't fail, still, nice to have two.  As well, I'd like a faucet, in order to dump water before it hits the softener or heater.  This would be a good time to do it.  I have sweating torches, so should be able to get them in.  It's a matter of figuring out what is needed, and how to do it.  Are there ball valves which can be sweated in solid?  Or do I need to have at least one side arranged with a bolt in section?  I just am not sure.  Will... do a bit of research.  I don't mind sweating them in.  May have problems, make mistakes, but it will work, in time.  I will arrange the faucet on it's own branch, and usually shut off.  Because faucets fail too frequently.  Or find a ball valve that will work instead of a faucet?  Dunno... have to review some things.  Bleh.

A winter day out there.  Cloudy?  Foggy?  Or just... or was when I woke.  I checked, again.  It is 24, still a bit hazy if clearing slightly, but fully overcast and rather dark.  Still, not a bad day for winter.

Bed made, cat fed, a kefir down, coffee water heating.  Just to get more properly dressed, figure out what I need from town, and maybe where to get it... make a list and check it twice.  Then getting to it all.  First a bit of research.  To see if there is a pump, or something that might work as a pump.  I wonder if a pressure water system would work as a pump?  If so, it might get two birds with one stone?  And might not cost all that much more than some sump pumps.  Just thinking out loud.

Well... on to research.  Maybe a bit of gaming after, to wake better.  Some coffee would be good, as well.  Getting to things, and not doing too awfully terrible.  Sure, some would have kept at it, until it was done.  I have... limits.  Still, some things just couldn't be known until after some things were done.  And the store might have been closed by the time I realized some things.  Unless you have a truck full of spares, and have seen these things before?  It's... a process.  I think I am doing fairly well, given the givens.

Coffee!  Later.

Sweating it won't work.

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.

Now I remember why I didn't already replace the valve.  It is on galvanized piping.  All copper outdoors, but when it enters the house, it is galvanized.  Why?  Anyway.

After a bit of digging, more than what was already done, the notion is to go pex.  The minimum is a pex expander, and possibly parts or a parts kit if they have it.  Well, and valves.  The thing is, once that is in, any other work with it is very easy.  The expense may keep that from happening today, though.  Will... find out.

Essentially, just looking at a pump, and parts for the water heater.  I will look at pex, but probably not buy.  I want the expand, not crimp, sort.  I've just heard better things about the expander pex, in both the long run and regarding installation.  Ugh.  Oh, best make a call, see if they still have a line, and if they can tell me what parts are needed.  Otherwise, perhaps, two trips to town?  Bleh.  Later.

A rather keto meal?

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.

Cheese, salami, kefir, and a fatted coffee?  I think so.  And, yet, I feel a bit off.  Not sure if it was what I ate, or what I have been eating catching up to me.  Yes, fast food will sideswipe me.  Maybe not on the day, but soon after.  If I can get to town, I may well eat out again.  But, not the whole shebang.  Just a burger, or two, without the bun... so either Wendy's or In-N-Out.  There is a new burger joint in town, I have heard is good.  Not sure if they offer low carb forms, like lettuce wrapped burgers.

I'll see if I have carbonated water.  What is too bad is that they don't offer that, on the tap.  Then again, it would probably be through the tap, unfiltered.  I just don't prefer that either.  Drinking chlorinated water, directly, just isn't the best.  Bad for the gut.  Add in fluoride and you've doubled down.  Who knows what else is in there, from local, or things they just don't tell people about.  Lawful and not.  There are very good reasons not to trust the government.  If it is all you've got, then... that is the way of it.  Beats straight river water, I guess.

Still, having a bit of a rough morning.  Not sure why I'm not feeling so great.  But, I'll see if I can get to it anyway, in just a bit.  I gamed for a bit.  A bit longer than I had hoped, due to not feeling the best.  Then again, I wasn't feeling great this morning.  In some ways it got worse.  The stomach upset.  But, in other ways, the aches and pains, it got better.  Bleh.

I will check the pipe outer diameter.  It should be 3/4", but you can never be absolutely certain.  I am dressed, just getting ready of mind as much as anything.  Hoping what is listed as being instore is actually in.  Will do what I can.  There wasn't much, of the bottled water I wanted.  Though there might be just a few more out back?

It's about time to get going... within an hour or two.  Later.

I did the check.

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.

Looks like the lower systems, both the power input and the rod are shot.  No problem.  I just have to sort out what I need for replacement.  The manual got soaked, not sure I can sort through it.  So may need to simply find the model and serial number, and go from there.

Done.

While at it, I looked at the fuse box.  Still looks good.  That could have blown too.  Though, if it had, it would show.  So, for now, it's just a matter of finding the components.  I have heard that the panels aren't that expensive to replace.  The only problem might be finding them.  It's from 2013?  Hard to know if parts are available.

A bit of a look and I'll know, I guess.  

Well?  I can't find an exact fit.  But there is a general repair kit.  I'm not sure about the length of the internal component.  Hmm.  Looks like I will have to turn off the water, again, tomorrow.  Then pull the heating element.  I may just do that before going into town to check?  The problem with that is, I may need another tool.  To remove the element.  Though, perhaps, I may have that tool.  I will look around tomorrow.  It would only be in one of a few places.  Bleh.

Still, I am getting there.  I couldn't get to it, until later.  Wearing myself out, doing this and that.  And a shower would be really good, but it sort of just isn't possible.  Oh... I'll go see if the manual can be delicately reviewed.  See if any data can be found in that.  

Okay.  The data is there, what is there.  There isn't enough, however, to be sure.  I am not sure I can drain the thing.  As is.  It is in the basement.  A hose won't do it, without a pump to pull, push, or whatnot.  Ugh.  There is a number, by which to order parts.  All that is required is the serial number and model number, which I plucked off the main panel while down there.

Yes, well... bit by bit I am closing in on whether this can be repaired or not.  The repair kit looks right, save possibly for the length of the heating elements.  A call may or may not provide that detail.  Even if the elements aren't the right length, I could buy those on the side, along with the rest of the kit, or purchase it all in component forms?  Maybe.  I think I did see individual parts and pieces while there.  But all of them?  I'll find out tomorrow.

Was getting confused.  Thought today was Wednesday, maybe Tuesday.  Monday?  Well... I'll... keep at it.  Goodnight.

Well... got it, then... lost it?

.

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I finally got it connected.  Taped everything.  Tightened it well.  As well as I could before testing.  Trying not to break anything.  Yes, Doom can break even solid metal, or do other... bad things.  

At first I thought I had wasted my money buying the open/closed box wrenches.  But, no, there were times where they really came in handy, made a few of the twists much easier.  So there is that.

After everything was as tight as I felt was safe, I wrapped the inlet of the extension, the new elbow in that area, and the connection to the water heater, since if those blew water, they would hit the fuse box, then went and turned the water on.  It was very difficult to turn the water back on.  I wondered if it had frozen.  I was just about to give up when it started giving and going.  A bit of a trial, but it turned on.

As I was coming in, to the back porch, I heard a lot of noise.  I... was almost sure the water couldn't be spouting out that much?  Of course, my ears were on alert the moment I stepped in.  No, as it turns out, my tightening was very good.  Not even a drop drip.

The sounds?  All of the faucets in the house were still on.  Not a bad thing.  Thankfully I got in before the bathroom sink overran, but the rest was good.  It must have rocketed through as soon as it could, and was running the whole time.  Plus, with five faucets open, full blast, the drains were a bit slow.  Still, no mess, no fuss.  Oh, and downstairs, the fan was still on.  What a relief.

With everything seeming quite dry, the fan having run all day and through the night, I thought it would be good.  I turned the fuse panel to on, and was about to reach in to reset the top heating element, then would have gone to the bottom one.  Before I could reach into the top one, the bottom one snapped, crackled, popped, and smoked!  I took a goodly step back, then turned off the fuse panel.

I don't know if... that is that.  If that was just a temporary thing.  Will find out later, tomorrow.  I have it remaining open, of course.  And the fan continuing.  I should look for my multimeter as well.  Hopefully, if something popped, it was just one of the elements or the sub-board down there.  No, I haven't looked, still a bit unnerved, jumpy.  But, I did look something up.

Getting there.

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I did get the water shut off, disconnected, and ready.  Dumped as much water as possible before disconnecting the water heater.  And, learned something about the shutoff valve, to the whole house.  I thought it was a ball valve.  There is a stem, on top.  I thought, when it was crosswise to the pipe, that meant it was fully closed.

Nope.  I had to take it another third past the crosswise seeming indication.  Very strange.  Still, I did, finally, get the water all shut down, off, whatever.  Emptied, detached, and ready.

I bought an extra flexible pipe.  Just... because.  I found the elbows.  I bought tape, since I had forgotten to look for it, and just to make sure I had it.  As well, I bought standard wrenches large enough to manage this process, a set of them for this and other work.  Good to have, if rarely used?  That gives me three tools which can be used on these sizes of nuts, bolts, and whathaveyous.

The pipe wrench will, if anything can, open just about anything.  The crescent wrench is pretty good, but doesn't quite have that much pull and push capacity.  And the standard wrenches will be good for just burning it down, once opened.  Though it might work at simply opening.  I like having options.  

I shouldn't have gotten a fast food meal.  I've been eating pretty poorly lately.  But, While working, I can't cook.  I get choices.  And, yet, I need food.  So... so there.

I have to take a bit of a break.  This much work is getting to me.  Still, will try to get it together shortly.  Check to see if it needs more drying time, after the water spillage from detaching the flex hoses.  I was careful.  But care only helps just so much.  I am hoping to have it all attached in a few hours.  Hmm... painpills might help.  Pinched neck, sore biceps and triceps, nearing knots in my leg muscles, a bit of a tension headache.  Nothing too much, just enough singularly though certainly in unison, to beg a bit of tending.

Quite happy with how things are going.  I suspect I might be able to have things ready for a shower either this evening, or by noon tomorrow.  I love doing this kind of work.  Don't like doing it on a rushed schedule, but that... gets it done more swiftly.  It is a difficult world.  Men do better when things are difficult.  Actually, I suspect women do better in a difficult world too.  

On to resting just a bit.  Good day.

Back up.

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It was a bit of a struggle to get back up.  I finally rousted around ten.  Having a bite to eat.  Planning on a trip to town.  If an elbow won't do it, what else might, on it's own or with the elbow?  Perhaps a few short lengths of straight pipe?  Maybe.  Can always return them, if the cost justifies it.  I will be seeing about pipe tape.  Would prefer pipe dope, but as mentioned, I never end up using enough of it.

As well, I will fill a few jugs extra of water, refill Sassy's water container, then shut off the main water, and disconnect the hoses after draining as much water as possible otherwise... keeping a towel handy.  The crescent wrench, massive as it is, is much easier to use than the even more massive pipe wrench.  Still, it'll be a chore.

I do need to wake a bit, first.  But then will get to it.  thankfully, currently, I do have a store card, so am not digging into my scarce resources this month.  Will just pay it off next month.  Not as expensive, so far, as I thought they would be.  Last time I purchased the flexible hose connects, they were twenty to thirty dollars.  Down to ~$14 or a little less now?  Strange.  

No, I bought them back when I put the new water heater in... four to six years ago, so not during the covid price gouging... some of which is still happening.  Price gouging of some other era, I guess.  I suppose, if you pee on the back of peasants, for some odd reason they tend to not come back.  There are things I would like to do, but with lumber prices so high, I can't.  Won't even do little projects.  Is low volume bringing prices down?  I avoid the place, and most other places, these days, for a dozen reasons.  Am beginning to avoid spending as much as possible, altogether.  Cash might be becoming worthless, but overpriced commodities are worse.

Later.

Back to bed for a bit?

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.

Yes, I think so.  Cooled off enough to sleep?  Something.  Still warm, but cool enough.

Sassy has been begging for food, but... no.  Too early.  I won't even open the back door, so she can get dry food.  It's just not time.  I did have kefir, but only because I was going to refill the big jars and there wasn't space.  But... I... just can't get to it.  And, I'll probably have to consume another glass, but am full.  Had two glasses, that's all I can do for now.

Bleh.  On back to bed.  Good morning, or night, or day.  Later.

Up at 2:00?

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Yea.  And it sucks, actually.  Too warm?  Oddly, yes, as well.  I went to bed at or just before 19:30.  I think I was pretty much asleep before I hit the sack.  possibly before I even went up the steps?  Who knows.  Though I think so.

A bit sore from yesterday's doings.  All good though.  Swinging those various wrenches around will do that, at odd angles, and above even my shoulders.  Though some of it is mechanical exhaustion, like from having to keep the water shut-off tool on the valve.  I think they got one that is too big, and has to be oddly situated to work.  While it doesn't take a lot of energy, it takes concentrated energy.  The combination is really what got to me.

After I get any water usage out of the way, for the morning, I'll turn off the water to the house until the elbows are put in.  I may get on to town, after the shops are open, to see about elbows... if I haven't hear anything.  As well, I will drain the water, then undo the flex pipes, on the sides which will be attached to the elbows.  As well, tighten up those where they connect to the water heater.  Be all ready.  As well, I will look around for pipe tape.  I would like pipe dope, but don't use that often enough to entertain buying it.  It always ends up mostly unused and dried up.

--------

Cold.

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.

Between the work, the shower, getting out, tinkering even outside to get the water off then back on, I am finally feeling cold.  It's more from exhaustion than anything.  I am surprised I was able to be so warm while drenched, to be honest.  Even had to go out and turn the water off, after getting soaked.  And being out at other times while still wet.

I suppose adrenalin, from the event, helped me stay warm?  Well, and using that massive pipe wrench.  I think the thing weighs seven to ten pounds.  Plus, trying to manage to get it into areas where it really didn't fit, and above shoulder height, while wet.  I did well.  I am satisfied.  Will be much happier if the the water heater works.

I'm about to go down and check it.  But I doubt if it will be dry yet.  And... I think I am going on to bed.  It's only 18:00, but I... I need to rest, sleep.

No, not dry.  And, there are minor leaks from two of the fittings.  Talking a drop an hour or such.  When I add elbows, I'll tighten those.  At the angle they currently sit, tightening them is difficult.  Might... cause a crack, or just break the nipple on the water heater.  Don't want to go there.

Turned the electric blanket on.  But I need to get a few pee jugs emptied and reset.  Yea, always something.  Far better to do that than to have to tumble down the stairs, three or four times a night, through the cold and dark.  No thank you.  No bathroom upstairs.  One of the only downsides to being up there.  I am almost sure there is a way to get a loo up there.  A sink would be nice too, but that would be a lot more work, if hot water was wanted as part of it.

I will game a bit, just to let the blanket heat the bed a touch first.  I really am pleased with my efforts.  Not perfect, not done, but... a good enough start so that I can sleep with a clear conscience, and with plans and outlines about how to finish the job.  All good.  So tired.  Which is how it should be.  Goodnight.

Looks like I did get the water shut off.

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.

Well, I mean, I got the connectors connected tight enough to stop water flow.  The pan, where the electrical connections went down to?  Was full of water.  That is where I saw smoke, or steam.  Good thing I didn't tinker with that until I got the power off, which to do safely I had to turn the water off.

We opened things up, dried things off, got a fan down there, and... yea.  Waiting for it to dry.  Will check later tonight, or tomorrow.  Wanted to go to bed early.  At around 18:00.  But... no.  Then again, I'll only stay up to 20:00, then go on to bed.  With the bed already made, should be easy enough.

Not bad, for a cripple.  But, yes, I am exhausted.  My shoulders hurt from using those big tools, and possibly from doing so while taking a cold shower.  Still?  Pleased.  I... actually can... do some things.

He thinks he might have an idea, a fix.  So I don't have to buy two more flex hoses and connectors.  He thinks a 90 curve would work.  And, yes, I think it would.  As is they go straight down.  Worse is they go a bit far.  It puts a kink in the hoses, though not enough to stop the water.  If, over time, it would break through.  Yea.  If he has them, he'll be by tomorrow.  If not, I'll make another trip to town.  I would have tonight, but I just can't.

All good.  I put a fan going down there.  Surprising how little water is down there, for as much as was gushing out.  It must have just started spraying out as I was going down stairs to check on it.  I had just tried the water, and found it to be cold, but had let it run for a bit.  That must have just been too much pressure, at the cold water, so it snapped.  Otherwise there would be at least a puddle down there.  Weird, but a thing to be thankful regarding.

Hmm?  A sandwich?  I think that might be dandy.  And some kefir.  I'll also check the kefir, see if that can be turned over yet.  I am hoping it will be ready sometime yet today.  No telling though.  Later.

Well?

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I got the pipes connected, and tightened.  Turned the water back on.  And?  Reminded me to the training, in the Navy.  Were we had to shut valves, or patch pipes, while being flooded from a dozen places.  The trick was to work fast, hit the bigger pipes first, and just... enjoy the suck.

All the pipes and connectors were the same size, but some were spraying worse than others.  That water is cold, people!  Still, on I went.  I got three of them tightened down, but the third one was in a corner, between bends, and folds, of pipe, just too difficult for the big pipe wrench I was using.  I thought I had a massive crescent wrench somewhere.  It has a more sleek jaw, so should fit in there.  And, once I found it, it did get the job done.

Absolutely exhausted for it, but I think it is done.  Another neighbor visited.  An event coming up in a few days.  I wasn't sure I'd be able to get to it, for the lack of hot water, so no shower.  He had things to do, but will stop back in a bit.  I wanted to try to get it done, before he returns, and have done what I might.

I'll have him look over the connections, see if I got them tight enough.  Perhaps tighten a few if needs be.  Then I'll just let it dry for a while.  I will open the panel... with it off.  And I will open the front panels on the heater itself, pull the insulation, let them air dry for a day, or two.  Then try... perhaps tomorrow night.  I'll have to go without hot water between now and then.

The dishes are clean.  Just need rinsed.  I could heat water in a kettle, or just in the tea pot.  Nothing fancy, and not much at a time, but... it might work to get me through.  And, maybe, I could do a sitz bath if all else failed, assuming I can do that.  It's sort of a heavy effort.  And I've spent my effort for the week.  Month?  Bleh.

If it weren't so annoying, I would count that as fun.  If it works out, I... will count it among my fond memories.  Actually, for sure, it's more a matter of how much time needs to pass.

At least the house water is back on.  And I think I have the nuts tightened enough that there isn't a drip.  I may need to get two more, and splitter, or connector piece... of the flex hoses.  These are just too short.  They didn't have anything more than twenty four inches.  Though even thirty six inches might have been tight.  So, two, plus a connecting piece, might do.  Three if not, though two most likely.  But, for now, I just want this set up.

If nothing else, I... did get water back on, and any drips to a very tiny minimum.  Though, when I go in for more, I will see about a standard wrench, which fits these connectors, possibly buy two.  That makes like a LOT easier.  Adjustables are good, for some things.  But fixed sizes have their place too.  Ugh.

Now to dry out.  The good side?  Even soaking wet, I am warm enough from the effort that it isn't a problem.  I've become a clothes dryer!  Later.

More troubles.

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.

The water wasn't hot, when I went to rinse the dishes.  Nothing but cold.  Very cold.  So, I headed downstairs.  I thought I heard something I really didn't want to hear.  Was hoping it was... just... something running... like the water softener cycling one thing or another.  But, no.  It was running water, a leak.

Now, thankfully, it hadn't been leaking for long.  My first impulse was to turn the water off outdoors.  But... no.  I had to find the leak first.  It was odd.  Could see it coming from the pipes, but was hitting the ceiling, needed more light.

I went up, dressed well enough to go out if required, or even to town really.  Then I grabbed a light source.  Then headed back down.  It took a bit.  No reason to panic, if I wanted to find the leak so I could then turn the water off asap.  It was leaking from the flex hose which was replaced recently.  Strange, but okay.

I got out, turned the water off, and got in to town in order to get a replacement hose.  I bought two, while at it.  A slightly different sort than the replacement, or what I had originally installed.  All about the same price.  I am simply looking for one which might last longer?  Bleh.

Back home, I took one off.  Had to use a huge pipewrench on the nut.  It was on too tightly to get off with just a regular wrench or even a massive lockjaw.  I did get one flex pipe clean off, then one side and part of the other side for the next one.  It... was wearing me out.  Had to take a break.  And, yes, I did turn the fuse panel to the off position.

I have to take a bit of a break.  Just getting to town was... exhausting.  Add in wrestling with the water shutoff, getting upstairs and dressed in a hurry, getting to town on a dark tired day, and then wrestling with those connections, I... have to take a bit of a time-out.

Still, I will get it going, before long.  Might be an hour away, but I will get back to it.  I did text the neighbor.  What would "H" do.  Mostly just let him know what was going on, and what I was doing.  He has two or three or four jobs, a wedding coming up, don't expect much.  And, for at least the first six months to year of marriage, until she is... well... too busy with else to manage things, he will be lost in a wonderland.  Still, if he can advise, I'll listen.  No comment back, but... that... isn't a surprise.  Don't think I don't know.  I just don't have another resource.

I'll get to it.  After the pipes are set up, I will leave it as is, to dry out, for a few days.  Then attempt a reset.  The thing may simply have shorted, due to water hitting the electronics.  So... yea.  Hook it up, open it up, dry it with what is available (of course before turning the panel back on).  Then letting it air dry for a while... might even take a fan down there to add air movement.  Then, say, Tuesday night, or Wednesday sometime, get in and turn it on... assuming no leaks.

As well, I will run the water through the lines.  But maybe not until the day before starting the electronics, just to make sure it isn't dripping.  Have to check on it, after that, even so.  Hmm... I may turn the water on right away, then just check for leaks?  As soon as the flex pipes are replaced?  Yea.  I think so.  I will want water, for this and that, between now and then.

Well?  At least I... got to it.  Successfully?  Time will tell.  Later.

Difficult to wake.

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.

Granted, I couldn't get to bed until 21:30ish.  Still, a twelve hour sleep, pretty much to the minute.  I couldn't wake, either.  I did roll, check the clock, starting at around 7:30.  Every hour to half hour after, I'd... sort of try to work my way out.  No chance.  Even waking at 9:30 was chore.

I will try to be to bed earlier tonight.  Maybe even 18:00.  I made the bed this morning.  Then again, the only reason it wasn't done yesterday is that someone was waiting on me.  Still can't believe I am sleeping so late!  We are hitting deeper winter.  I suppose that is it.  Maybe the snow has something to do with it?  Don't quite know, for certain.

Still, up, and... a bit done.  Sassy was fed, her litter cleared.  Then I had a few kefirs while filtering the fermented kefir, resetting that.  I do enjoy kefir.  Usually I have it plain, sometimes I will add sweetener.  I honestly, mostly, like it plain.  I guess I just need a little variety.

A bite to eat, a cold-cut sandwich.  Nearly a dagwood?  No, not nearly enough fillings.  Salami, ham, swiss, and fresh onion, with mayo.  Not fancy, but I sure like it from time to time.  Can't have it too often, but will have it from time to time.  Thought about heating the other half of the squash, but will save that.  Hoping to get a pork roast cooked in a bit.  Will heat the squash up for that as a side.

Well, on with my day.  Good morning, day, and later.