.
.
It was quirky getting the Big Internet Company to finally decide whether they could or would even install internet here and then it took some time, after two weeks of dithering, to actually have internet installed, but it is done. I also had them install a phone with the package as it saved me a bit more than $120 dollars over a stand-alone internet installation fee over the period of the phone deal. Unfortunately, the phone is not quite as useful since during a power outage, it will go down as well being connected through a dual use modem. Whatever, at least I do now have a local phone number.
All utilities, save city water and garbage are now in my name and working. Internet is on, of course. Getting to town hall between 9:30 and 11:30 has been problematic to date. Today I simply could not wake up, though for a number of reasons which I will get to later. The house proper is coming together. The kitchen has been cleaned and about 1/2 of my kitchen is back together. I am washing everything as I unpack it as it has been in storage for a year. The rest of the unpacking is a bit slower, my main focus is on the kitchen. Still, some pieces, parts, clothes, and such are being roughly sorted, collected in groups of likes, with some of it coming out of the boxes and being put away more properly. For example, my camping, climbing, and reloading gear is going into what will most likely become my ammunition reloading area. All will probably fit nicely, along with the assembled reloading station and reloading components when I am finished. It is an odd little room which must have been something similar too a very old fashioned walk-in cloak room. It has a sliding door, shelving, a high enough ceiling for good use of the shelves, coat hooks all around, and hanger bars. Clothes, as they are being pulled out, are being washed and hung up properly as well. As I said though, these other things are secondary to the kitchen.
In the kitchen I ran into my first snag. The faucet was dripping. Well, I took particular umbrage at the faucet and decided to change it. Fine, a right proper response I think. Well, okay, so I attempted to turn the water off under the sink. I still do not have lefty loosey, righty tighty down when the valve is located oddly to a standard frontal position. I ended up turning the water at a higher rate and the rubber flex hose for the cold water sprang a leak! I was trying to do this late at night as I could not sleep so I thought I would make myself useful. Ugh. The faucet was cranky and I simply did not seem to be able to get it turned off. I ended up washing myself, under the sink, and right on down to the basement floor. I ran around like a chicken with one head less than usual and hopped from leg to leg, while scratching my head and making odd and sometimes threatening noises for a bit. Finally I decided to give the valve one more shot. Sure enough, this time I turned the water off. Ugh. I toweled myself, under the sink, and the floor of the kitchen off, letting the basement floor air dry, then called it a night.
I have since purchased a new faucet, new and better flex hose, and... punches and chisels. After looking around under the sink, I realized the old faucet is attached using those plastic 4 winged nuts. No tool I have or could think of would reach up into that narrow access to turn those, thus the punches and chisels. I have yet to try to undo those "nuts" yet, but it is on my list. I have not checked the flexible hoses either, though I am really hoping they are simply standard.
Beyond that, the shower nozzle in the second bathroom was springing a major leak when I tried to shower with it. I tried to tighten it only to realize the threading was so messed up the thing could not be repaired or tightened so as to work. I went to Wal-Mart and bought a flexible metal multi-hinged affair, similar to the shower head in the bathroom in the master bedroom. It, however, does not work. The hinges cannot be tightened well enough to hold the device up, so it keeps drooping. I was able to tighten it so that there were no leaks however! Ugh. So, I have to take it back. I would like to find another like it but I do not think I will buy it at Wal=Mart.
No garden has been installed. I simply have not had enough time, or the energy when I have had the time. I really hope to get it in soon, but I simply can make no promises. Digging out a 5 x 5, or better 5 x 7, area by hand through very thick dense grass is not as easy as it seems, and of course I still have physical problems.
I did have the stitches removed from my hand. I gave that hand about 4 days to heal, using it for almost nothing and using a sling to make sure it was not used. I then waited a couple of extra days before going in for the removal of the stitches in order to give the finger more time to heal after rather heavy usage that first week after it was cut. This seemed to work. I thought the hand and finger were about ready for use. While going through the boxes, I found the Dyno-Flex gyro exercise tool I used to use in Iowa. I thought I would use that to strengthen the hand a bit before really digging in. Not such a good plan, however, I think this was much better than if I had simply started ripping into work in that I was doing controlled amounts of finger and hand stress. It is surprising how weak a hand gets and how fast, by the way. After a few days of increasing usage, I realized the wound was opening again. It did not open enough for me to go back in, but it was enough to let me know I had to back off. So, another week of (only mostly, but definitely mostly) one handed work is in the offing. *sigh*
Further, I have been going to the chiropractor. He says there are no shortcuts and that this will be 3 times a week for 6 weeks, and then a re-evaluation. However, I have been feeling very rough. Last night I had to take a bunch of aspirin to get past the pain. All the pain and stiffness was in my neck, my back is doing better. But the headache, nausea, and general soreness were nearly on par with a migraine. The aspirin did the trick, but not until 3:00 or 4:00, after initially trying to sleep without taking anything at 22:00 and giving in to aspirin at 2:00 or so. I have felt very tough this way for 4 or 5 days now. Another week like this and I will simply stop going in for treatments. I will just tell him what I have told every other doctor who, when prescribing something that does not work, insists that what I really need is more of the same, just harder... "NO THANK YOU!".
Still, those are the bad things. The good things are: Having my own home; Being with a cat friend; Having a lot of projects that if complicated, annoying, expensive, and time consuming are real, have a personal impact, and are very satisfying once completed, both to mind and function(!) ; and, Being able to take care of things a bit at a time, over time, as I can, and still really getting somewhere with it all, even when it seems like I am completely stuck. When stuck, I just give it a few moments or days as may be needed, hit it again, and repeat if necessary or simply finally get that project nailed.
My mother suggests she will be coming out for a couple of weeks in July. I need to get her tickets, and with the internet up and running, that should not be a problem. Money is getting tight, and with each necessary project, I become a little more concerned. I still have to buy a lawn mower (and then use it, ugh), and probably a weed whip. A wheelbarrow would be very nice as well. The previous owners were a bit eccentric. They placed big rocks in odd places (and tried to grow evergreens on them?). Anyway, the wheelbarrow would be great for other projects as well, including creating a garden. And, I would like to get my herbs and spices going before long. But that means potting soil and some sort of planters (though yogurt cups work splendidly in the short run). Have you priced any of this stuff lately? My word, do they think we grow money? Even small pots, for example, at Wal=Mart, seem to be in the $5 and up range. Not bad unless you want 10 to 20 of them. Ugh. Ha!
But it is all good. Sorry for the length of this post, but I wanted to give you a chance to catch up as well as I could. It is not the same as if I had posted everyday. Then again, it is all meat, give or take. It might even be slightly whine lite? Ha. Tha... tha... that's all folks.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Hmm? I will try this.
.
.
I am trying to blog with my cell. I could not comment, ao I did not think I could post. Out of boredom, I gave it a shot.
I am alive and well, give or take. I am also very busy, behind MY* schedule, and running short of cash. Almost all utilities are
Now in my name. Internet will be hooked up Monday. More about all then.
Just saying "I am alive!", uhrm, because I am and I can. If this works, that is???
Good night!
.
I am trying to blog with my cell. I could not comment, ao I did not think I could post. Out of boredom, I gave it a shot.
I am alive and well, give or take. I am also very busy, behind MY* schedule, and running short of cash. Almost all utilities are
Now in my name. Internet will be hooked up Monday. More about all then.
Just saying "I am alive!", uhrm, because I am and I can. If this works, that is???
Good night!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
They do read.
.
.
I think I struck a nerve here, with the people I am staying with. My statement was not aimed at them at all, but at limousine liberals. They do sail, or have. My comment regarding something about not being able to sail, more of that last (or, shut the ____ up). Although it might have been the whole of the article. However, it is a rather cold night here. Not for my part, I really have no worries about differences. So, I am guessing they read here. They either took that as a personal attack or the whole thing as a slight.
I suspect others read here too. Behind enough systems, I cannot see them. I have noticed that others also have strange reactions, sometimes strangers (locals), sometimes people with whom I share an association. There were some other comments which lead me to believe they have read back quite a bit.
I am not sure if they, whoever reads here, realizes that some fact, some fiction, some thinking without connection, and other types of writing occur here, but it does. This is a journal, a fiction novel of sorts, and a place to let my mind roam and explore... possibilities. Some related to real life, some wholly imaginative scenarios.
I suppose reading here for absolute fact is like seeing a branch in calm wind and assuming that it is always straight and rigid, that it will always be attached to the tree, and probably some other suppositions which are not always or even fundamentally true. And I have a huge imaginative reservoir and many real and unreal to me and others questions for the world, myself, others, and God. Most people have such "straight" lives, they cannot imagine my life, thoughts, nor understand my writing. But then, I am not actually writing for others. I certainly do not advertise, make known, or otherwise invite. Those who are here are just that, and stay, comment, read, or go quite on their own. I suppose the rest have no clue I exist and no interest about me, here, or what I write, think, or believe. All good.
Anyway...
Neck is still a bit tweaky, the back feels better, the hand is still problematically cranky, and I may be getting a fever and some other stuff. I did, finally, start the antibiotics if perhaps a wee late. I will wash and freshly bandage the thing shortly.
I do not know when I will blog again though. They are letting me stay tonight, and tomorrow as I will not be able to sort out bedding while everything is being loaded over. But they want the machine out in the morning and me out Friday but a call to Comcast was unsuccessful in getting me set up there, or even having connection scheduled. The Indian I spoke with did not understand me well, I think, and said he could not find service in the area for me. But after speaking with the Post Office Mistess, I know Comcast serves the area (with cable internet, definitely high speed). Anyway, this is it for a bit.
Have a good life until then!
.
I think I struck a nerve here, with the people I am staying with. My statement was not aimed at them at all, but at limousine liberals. They do sail, or have. My comment regarding something about not being able to sail, more of that last (or, shut the ____ up). Although it might have been the whole of the article. However, it is a rather cold night here. Not for my part, I really have no worries about differences. So, I am guessing they read here. They either took that as a personal attack or the whole thing as a slight.
I suspect others read here too. Behind enough systems, I cannot see them. I have noticed that others also have strange reactions, sometimes strangers (locals), sometimes people with whom I share an association. There were some other comments which lead me to believe they have read back quite a bit.
I am not sure if they, whoever reads here, realizes that some fact, some fiction, some thinking without connection, and other types of writing occur here, but it does. This is a journal, a fiction novel of sorts, and a place to let my mind roam and explore... possibilities. Some related to real life, some wholly imaginative scenarios.
I suppose reading here for absolute fact is like seeing a branch in calm wind and assuming that it is always straight and rigid, that it will always be attached to the tree, and probably some other suppositions which are not always or even fundamentally true. And I have a huge imaginative reservoir and many real and unreal to me and others questions for the world, myself, others, and God. Most people have such "straight" lives, they cannot imagine my life, thoughts, nor understand my writing. But then, I am not actually writing for others. I certainly do not advertise, make known, or otherwise invite. Those who are here are just that, and stay, comment, read, or go quite on their own. I suppose the rest have no clue I exist and no interest about me, here, or what I write, think, or believe. All good.
Anyway...
Neck is still a bit tweaky, the back feels better, the hand is still problematically cranky, and I may be getting a fever and some other stuff. I did, finally, start the antibiotics if perhaps a wee late. I will wash and freshly bandage the thing shortly.
I do not know when I will blog again though. They are letting me stay tonight, and tomorrow as I will not be able to sort out bedding while everything is being loaded over. But they want the machine out in the morning and me out Friday but a call to Comcast was unsuccessful in getting me set up there, or even having connection scheduled. The Indian I spoke with did not understand me well, I think, and said he could not find service in the area for me. But after speaking with the Post Office Mistess, I know Comcast serves the area (with cable internet, definitely high speed). Anyway, this is it for a bit.
Have a good life until then!
A rough one.
.
.
Sleeping through the night was not possible. I think it is just that there are too many things happening for me to settle well. Well, the neck, back, and finger are not helping either. I woke around midnight or 1:00 and was finally able to sleep again around 4:00 or 5:00. My memory is not good without rest, and I was neither really awake or asleep all night anyway.
My appointment with the chiropractor today was the first thing on my list. I barely dragged my bones out of bed to shower and dress. A little late, but there was a great deal of paperwork to fill out first anyway. Next came testing and x-rays. I did surprise the doctor with my hand grip. It was 144 ft/lb (or whatever measure they use). I did not tell him I could squeeze harder even today or that today I was just not into doing stupid pet tricks... tired, sore, and distracted... Of course, if I had squeezed harder, I would have started to hurt my fingers. I am just not up for more pain right now, of any kind.
Just doing the minor things to check flexibility, I became nauseous. A bit of time on some relaxation table though, helped. Then some adjustments. He suggested that he usually does not do adjustments right away, but that he would be gone, to a conference, the following day. I am to go back Friday and then Monday. It seems a bit much, but then I do not count how many stitches or bandages or wipes a traditional doc uses, so I will go with it for now. My neck really is and was giving me fits and was not improving (or getting worse). My lower back is either a bit numb or throbs. Whatever. I figure that I will give this about 2 weeks and then recover as I may after that.
Sometimes I wonder about these things. Am I just being a big baby? Even with my finger, am I being too sensitive? Of course, then I bump it or stretch it too much doing something and the reality hits me. Same with the neck, I crane too far to do my usual head-on-a-swivel and ACKH! No, they are real. I suppose that goes back to my worry that I am not really "ill" in the other aspect. Too many shrinks and doctors who dither between coddling and blaming me, I suppose. And my natural proclivity to strive, succeed, work (and belief in work?), and whatever. I just cannot believe that I cannot somehow simply stand, walk, and go do whatever I want!
Ah well. I will try to stay awake the full day in order to sleep well tonight. Perhaps I will grab my friend and head to my home town, check on the cat, see about setting up cable, find out about utilities, and maybe let him go out shooting. Handguns and rifles do not sound fun to handle with a back, neck, and hand all out of whack. Still, I might just enjoy watching someone else put a few downwind. Yes, I might indeed.
I have nothing else actually slated for today. Those things listed above are optional, if they would be very nice. Tomorrow is the moving day. I will be meeting them at a parking area, we will consolidate, and then head to the storage facility. I really cannot help yet, and for more reasons than just the finger. Hmmm, you know, just in case, I ought to buy some smelling salts. Thanks for that, Jean! I knew I forgot something. And as c rickety and awful as I am feeling, it might come in handy sooner than later. Ugh... my new candy?
Bah, it's still all a gas! Have a good day.
.
Sleeping through the night was not possible. I think it is just that there are too many things happening for me to settle well. Well, the neck, back, and finger are not helping either. I woke around midnight or 1:00 and was finally able to sleep again around 4:00 or 5:00. My memory is not good without rest, and I was neither really awake or asleep all night anyway.
My appointment with the chiropractor today was the first thing on my list. I barely dragged my bones out of bed to shower and dress. A little late, but there was a great deal of paperwork to fill out first anyway. Next came testing and x-rays. I did surprise the doctor with my hand grip. It was 144 ft/lb (or whatever measure they use). I did not tell him I could squeeze harder even today or that today I was just not into doing stupid pet tricks... tired, sore, and distracted... Of course, if I had squeezed harder, I would have started to hurt my fingers. I am just not up for more pain right now, of any kind.
Just doing the minor things to check flexibility, I became nauseous. A bit of time on some relaxation table though, helped. Then some adjustments. He suggested that he usually does not do adjustments right away, but that he would be gone, to a conference, the following day. I am to go back Friday and then Monday. It seems a bit much, but then I do not count how many stitches or bandages or wipes a traditional doc uses, so I will go with it for now. My neck really is and was giving me fits and was not improving (or getting worse). My lower back is either a bit numb or throbs. Whatever. I figure that I will give this about 2 weeks and then recover as I may after that.
Sometimes I wonder about these things. Am I just being a big baby? Even with my finger, am I being too sensitive? Of course, then I bump it or stretch it too much doing something and the reality hits me. Same with the neck, I crane too far to do my usual head-on-a-swivel and ACKH! No, they are real. I suppose that goes back to my worry that I am not really "ill" in the other aspect. Too many shrinks and doctors who dither between coddling and blaming me, I suppose. And my natural proclivity to strive, succeed, work (and belief in work?), and whatever. I just cannot believe that I cannot somehow simply stand, walk, and go do whatever I want!
Ah well. I will try to stay awake the full day in order to sleep well tonight. Perhaps I will grab my friend and head to my home town, check on the cat, see about setting up cable, find out about utilities, and maybe let him go out shooting. Handguns and rifles do not sound fun to handle with a back, neck, and hand all out of whack. Still, I might just enjoy watching someone else put a few downwind. Yes, I might indeed.
I have nothing else actually slated for today. Those things listed above are optional, if they would be very nice. Tomorrow is the moving day. I will be meeting them at a parking area, we will consolidate, and then head to the storage facility. I really cannot help yet, and for more reasons than just the finger. Hmmm, you know, just in case, I ought to buy some smelling salts. Thanks for that, Jean! I knew I forgot something. And as c rickety and awful as I am feeling, it might come in handy sooner than later. Ugh... my new candy?
Bah, it's still all a gas! Have a good day.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
An interesting notion.
.
.
Having lived next door to a small but growing family in Iowa, I was allowed a little insight into children, their roles in the family, and some solid adult participation. With parents who do their best, and want the best, for their children, as really good role models. I am sure it was not perfect. I saw the parents weary, become flustered, and I saw them get through it. I watched the children go through everything from supplication to rebellion, and find their place in the end. And all things happening at the various levels of the participants, in cycles, as each grew. And, yes, it strengthened my notion about having a family.
Here, now, I live with a couple. They are quite attached to each other. They too have their highs and lows, good and bad, if these are more muted they certainly exist. They have come to compliment each other as if there was no other way they even know how to exist. Of course, sometimes they do their own things. But, and to my great surprise, these times are small and mostly merely by exterior need or happenstance and not by choice or the 'need' for space. It is a wonderful thing to observe. And, I do try to neither merely "observe" (or spy) nor intrude. Though sometimes I have questions, asked as tastefully as I may.
It seems as if God keeps showing me what possibilities there are, and how good and bad they can be. And yes, I can see around corners (through steel, concrete, wood, cloth, sinew, bone, and right to a soul, at times). I see the losses, I see the difficulties, I do not miss much. I do think the cost is well worth the gain. I do not want my friend's family or the Mr.'s Mrs. Not that they are bad, only that they could never be mine. But I think I would like to follow in their footsteps. I think they are all miles ahead. And I would like to think that I might be able to create my own little world with a wife, and then with children.
Yes, I think so. I do not know how to cross those rivers, climb those mountains, or get over into those paths. And I really do not think there is any one way. I think I simply have to head in that direction, work and maybe push myself and situations a bit, and between will and fate, I will find myself on the other bank of this river of life, not quite sure how I got there. It is as magical and yet as mundane as all that. God's will? Who can know. For me specifically? He knows, I do not. But, I think so, I do.
This came to me and I wanted to put it out or I would be mulling it ALL NIGHT!
Good night.
.
Having lived next door to a small but growing family in Iowa, I was allowed a little insight into children, their roles in the family, and some solid adult participation. With parents who do their best, and want the best, for their children, as really good role models. I am sure it was not perfect. I saw the parents weary, become flustered, and I saw them get through it. I watched the children go through everything from supplication to rebellion, and find their place in the end. And all things happening at the various levels of the participants, in cycles, as each grew. And, yes, it strengthened my notion about having a family.
Here, now, I live with a couple. They are quite attached to each other. They too have their highs and lows, good and bad, if these are more muted they certainly exist. They have come to compliment each other as if there was no other way they even know how to exist. Of course, sometimes they do their own things. But, and to my great surprise, these times are small and mostly merely by exterior need or happenstance and not by choice or the 'need' for space. It is a wonderful thing to observe. And, I do try to neither merely "observe" (or spy) nor intrude. Though sometimes I have questions, asked as tastefully as I may.
It seems as if God keeps showing me what possibilities there are, and how good and bad they can be. And yes, I can see around corners (through steel, concrete, wood, cloth, sinew, bone, and right to a soul, at times). I see the losses, I see the difficulties, I do not miss much. I do think the cost is well worth the gain. I do not want my friend's family or the Mr.'s Mrs. Not that they are bad, only that they could never be mine. But I think I would like to follow in their footsteps. I think they are all miles ahead. And I would like to think that I might be able to create my own little world with a wife, and then with children.
Yes, I think so. I do not know how to cross those rivers, climb those mountains, or get over into those paths. And I really do not think there is any one way. I think I simply have to head in that direction, work and maybe push myself and situations a bit, and between will and fate, I will find myself on the other bank of this river of life, not quite sure how I got there. It is as magical and yet as mundane as all that. God's will? Who can know. For me specifically? He knows, I do not. But, I think so, I do.
This came to me and I wanted to put it out or I would be mulling it ALL NIGHT!
Good night.
I stopped in to Lowe's.
.
.
Kitchen cabinets, several types of flooring, and a few other things to look at were on the list. They have so much and there is so much more in other places. But in looking I am informed that what looks like a complete sale is actually only part of the sale. Some things I had considered, some things had been overlooked. Sub-flooring for the tile, for example, had been on the list. That would be less than $300. The tiles could run from $200 to $600 (and up, but I am discussing what caught my eye). Cabinets were from $150 per linear foot, with some added benefits. However, I had not considered trim, kick plates, etc. for that. Hardwood flooring was more like $4 to $9 per square foot, plus much more complex installation. Thankfully I have less than 100 square foot, more like 60 I think, in the dining area off the kitchen. But it all adds up and fast.
One of the men I spoke with had really good information. I was, to say the least, impressed with the full range of his assistance. He, like me, is middle class, likes certain things, and figures out how to get them. I looked at some impressive marble tile. It is on sale at less than 1/3rd what that material generally costs. Marble? Me? Maybe... seriously. It is not 58 cents per square feet as the least expensive material is, more like 3 times that, but... Marble, and beautiful marble.
Okay, after coming out of candy land, my head is spinning. The second man I spoke with offered me a manual within which are instructions for measuring and diagramming the kitchen (and off room as well, or I am going too), so that their experts can look it over and optimize material use, considering measurements, a potential kitchen island, appliances, outlets, floor levels (so it is all flat, level, even), and some other considerations. Yes, my head is spinning.
Something else I am looking into... water rights and a possible well. That whole process, especially here, is nearly insane. I have heard that dealing with the office that deals with that is a good way to go loopy. Obtaining the services of a licensed water engineer is probably the way to go. Though, as with anything, there are no guarantees. Getting a license to drill means obtaining underground water rights. Those rights only offer, if done correctly, a permit to drill. It seems, from what I have seen, that these rights and the process to the license seem to be priced at about $4k. Drilling, from what I have heard, costs around $12 a foot, including good surface to water piping, though that seems too cheap? Of course, that does not include pump, wind/sun/other power source and hookups, or piping to the house and wherever else one would want the water. Nor does it guarantee the water drilled too, if found at all, would be usable, healthy, tasty, or anything.
Yes, projects. Yes, work, money, design, thought, and a lot of hope. But this is what I have. If I were not doing these things, and more (think re-roofing the chicken coop, cleaning out the stables (little ones, goat sized), rabbit cages or even possibly barrel warrens, and typical upkeep), what would I be doing with my time and money? Games? Blogging? I think I can still do those. College? We will see, but keeping busy in off (and even "on") times is important. So much to do. A world to rework!
Oh, and though it is my home and my acreage, it is not. I am merely a caretaker who has been given responsibility for this place. I cannot own it. If I did, when I die, I would take it with me would I not? So, as a man who has stepped up to the plate of responsibility, it behooves me to do my best. Ah, the trick is to do it reasonably, financially soundly, within my health limitations (with the hope that I can stretch the borders of that), and sanely... Ugh. But it is a joy. I see things, great and small, in my mind. I hope to see some of those things fruit.
Good night:)
.
Kitchen cabinets, several types of flooring, and a few other things to look at were on the list. They have so much and there is so much more in other places. But in looking I am informed that what looks like a complete sale is actually only part of the sale. Some things I had considered, some things had been overlooked. Sub-flooring for the tile, for example, had been on the list. That would be less than $300. The tiles could run from $200 to $600 (and up, but I am discussing what caught my eye). Cabinets were from $150 per linear foot, with some added benefits. However, I had not considered trim, kick plates, etc. for that. Hardwood flooring was more like $4 to $9 per square foot, plus much more complex installation. Thankfully I have less than 100 square foot, more like 60 I think, in the dining area off the kitchen. But it all adds up and fast.
One of the men I spoke with had really good information. I was, to say the least, impressed with the full range of his assistance. He, like me, is middle class, likes certain things, and figures out how to get them. I looked at some impressive marble tile. It is on sale at less than 1/3rd what that material generally costs. Marble? Me? Maybe... seriously. It is not 58 cents per square feet as the least expensive material is, more like 3 times that, but... Marble, and beautiful marble.
Okay, after coming out of candy land, my head is spinning. The second man I spoke with offered me a manual within which are instructions for measuring and diagramming the kitchen (and off room as well, or I am going too), so that their experts can look it over and optimize material use, considering measurements, a potential kitchen island, appliances, outlets, floor levels (so it is all flat, level, even), and some other considerations. Yes, my head is spinning.
Something else I am looking into... water rights and a possible well. That whole process, especially here, is nearly insane. I have heard that dealing with the office that deals with that is a good way to go loopy. Obtaining the services of a licensed water engineer is probably the way to go. Though, as with anything, there are no guarantees. Getting a license to drill means obtaining underground water rights. Those rights only offer, if done correctly, a permit to drill. It seems, from what I have seen, that these rights and the process to the license seem to be priced at about $4k. Drilling, from what I have heard, costs around $12 a foot, including good surface to water piping, though that seems too cheap? Of course, that does not include pump, wind/sun/other power source and hookups, or piping to the house and wherever else one would want the water. Nor does it guarantee the water drilled too, if found at all, would be usable, healthy, tasty, or anything.
Yes, projects. Yes, work, money, design, thought, and a lot of hope. But this is what I have. If I were not doing these things, and more (think re-roofing the chicken coop, cleaning out the stables (little ones, goat sized), rabbit cages or even possibly barrel warrens, and typical upkeep), what would I be doing with my time and money? Games? Blogging? I think I can still do those. College? We will see, but keeping busy in off (and even "on") times is important. So much to do. A world to rework!
Oh, and though it is my home and my acreage, it is not. I am merely a caretaker who has been given responsibility for this place. I cannot own it. If I did, when I die, I would take it with me would I not? So, as a man who has stepped up to the plate of responsibility, it behooves me to do my best. Ah, the trick is to do it reasonably, financially soundly, within my health limitations (with the hope that I can stretch the borders of that), and sanely... Ugh. But it is a joy. I see things, great and small, in my mind. I hope to see some of those things fruit.
Good night:)
Done, done, scheduled, done, much better, ongoing but wel...
.
.
So much to do! Everything, I think, has been hit on. Some things are completed, quite a number of events are scheduled, and my hand is in a much better way.
I received the quote for repairs today. I was a bit surprised at how low it was actually, coming in at slightly over $700. After some discussion, repairs are planned for Monday morning. An all day event it seems. All good by me. Next, I got the oil change and checkup done today, if I was 15 minutes late. While I was waiting, I strolled to a nearby bookstore, an event I used to do much more frequently.
With the queerification of book stores, and art in general, the dearth of good modern writing, and all the other jazz, I had lost interest. I saw, again, why I no longer go upon entering the place. Still, I looked around. Ignoring feminist vampires and queer super heroes, I headed to a section of books related to classic high art. Printed in China, the first book said. Moving on, I noticed a section about Utah. Something might be there. I first fingered and let my eyes discover some of a book about canoeing and kayaking on Utah flat waters, or was it broader to include even some whitewater? That is not my thing, or yet, still I lingered. Then I moved on. Some history of towns and areas in the state. Interesting to be sure. And in time, something to pursue as leisure time arrives. Maps, of course, took some of my attention. And then I found one, then another, book on my list.
The hitchhiker's guide to Utah! Well, not quite. The first book I saw was a hikers guide to Uintah area. That is not far off, so I scrolled over the cover and sipped some of the pages. Interesting, close, but too far for regular visits and too limited in scope. Perhaps there was some other book there, something more general and yet more specific in some ways. At first it looked like there were simply two of the books I was holding, but a second look identified the other tome to be missing Uintah and simply having Utah listed. A brief look let me know this was the book for me. The guide even indexed the various trails according to interest, such as canyons, flowers, geology, and more importantly experience and capacity of the hiker(s)! I now have a guide for, perhaps weekly?, excursions.
After this, a trip to my home town to set up my mail service. So much like where I was raised. The small little post office, the kindly lady behind the counter, and a friendly greeting. After some greeting, introductions, and some minor chatter, we got to work. She even found a box high enough that I do not need to bend at all. We set the thing up, filled out a change of address card mostly (I still need to complete that and turn it in), and ID and some signatures, a transfer of keys, and the deal is set. I still need to take in closing papers in order to verify my name to the given address. She made sure to let me know to have my mail addressed to the post box and NOT my street address. Having come from just such an arrangement growing up, I assured her I would do so. Though I suggested that there would still be material coming in from financiers and such to the street address as I had no address but that up to this point. Though, I also suggested I would ameliorate the situation as soon as possible. Uhrm, I did not use that term. I think she would have looked at me a bit askance, then started thinking of me as a "funny guy" sort... or worse. Ha!
After that, a mostly pleasant drive back to my current abode. I think I missed the call from the representative of the Knights of Columbus, but I still do not have the name and address of the storage unit. Being a little tired though, I decided instead to research chiropractic clinics. I found little of use online, so I went by when the doctor (clinician?) was licensed, preferring middle over old or young. Oh Noes! He's ageist! Pshah... Right! I have set up an appointment for 10:00 am in the morning.
Now, to get that address and the name of my storage company. I think I can do that online as well. I do not know the number, however. That is no problem as I know where it is in the complex and I will need to be with them as it is keypad restricted and I will not give that out. As well, it might simply be easier to meet somewhere where people can park, we can take just a few vehicles including the hauling truck, and proceed that way. A big lot, like one Wal-Mart has, far from the store, should do? Yes, I think so. There simply is not good parking at where I am staying or at the storage facility.
And finally, my hand... Oh my what a splint and good bandaging does to help and prevent extra pain! I may not be genius, but I can be practical. Though the pencils would have worked, these bamboo slats are perfect. They are strong and yet flexible, perfect for splints, and with an added natural curve that surrounds the finger as well. Of course, I have the Mr. here to thank for that particular stroke of genius. I have a top and bottom one. I think that was my problem yesterday. PAIN! I could not feel all of it but it was quietly digging into my life and psyche. PAIN! It was there, and is still here. But my head is now above the threshold, not down below in animal land.
Well, it is getting done. One job after the next, one project at a time, even on top of being incapacitated and disabled, it is going like clockwork, if not the timing and way I intended. I am off to, maybe?, feed my face... Oh, after finding the address to the storage shed. They will want that anyway, even if my meet and consolidate plan goes forward.
Have a great day!
.
So much to do! Everything, I think, has been hit on. Some things are completed, quite a number of events are scheduled, and my hand is in a much better way.
I received the quote for repairs today. I was a bit surprised at how low it was actually, coming in at slightly over $700. After some discussion, repairs are planned for Monday morning. An all day event it seems. All good by me. Next, I got the oil change and checkup done today, if I was 15 minutes late. While I was waiting, I strolled to a nearby bookstore, an event I used to do much more frequently.
With the queerification of book stores, and art in general, the dearth of good modern writing, and all the other jazz, I had lost interest. I saw, again, why I no longer go upon entering the place. Still, I looked around. Ignoring feminist vampires and queer super heroes, I headed to a section of books related to classic high art. Printed in China, the first book said. Moving on, I noticed a section about Utah. Something might be there. I first fingered and let my eyes discover some of a book about canoeing and kayaking on Utah flat waters, or was it broader to include even some whitewater? That is not my thing, or yet, still I lingered. Then I moved on. Some history of towns and areas in the state. Interesting to be sure. And in time, something to pursue as leisure time arrives. Maps, of course, took some of my attention. And then I found one, then another, book on my list.
The hitchhiker's guide to Utah! Well, not quite. The first book I saw was a hikers guide to Uintah area. That is not far off, so I scrolled over the cover and sipped some of the pages. Interesting, close, but too far for regular visits and too limited in scope. Perhaps there was some other book there, something more general and yet more specific in some ways. At first it looked like there were simply two of the books I was holding, but a second look identified the other tome to be missing Uintah and simply having Utah listed. A brief look let me know this was the book for me. The guide even indexed the various trails according to interest, such as canyons, flowers, geology, and more importantly experience and capacity of the hiker(s)! I now have a guide for, perhaps weekly?, excursions.
After this, a trip to my home town to set up my mail service. So much like where I was raised. The small little post office, the kindly lady behind the counter, and a friendly greeting. After some greeting, introductions, and some minor chatter, we got to work. She even found a box high enough that I do not need to bend at all. We set the thing up, filled out a change of address card mostly (I still need to complete that and turn it in), and ID and some signatures, a transfer of keys, and the deal is set. I still need to take in closing papers in order to verify my name to the given address. She made sure to let me know to have my mail addressed to the post box and NOT my street address. Having come from just such an arrangement growing up, I assured her I would do so. Though I suggested that there would still be material coming in from financiers and such to the street address as I had no address but that up to this point. Though, I also suggested I would ameliorate the situation as soon as possible. Uhrm, I did not use that term. I think she would have looked at me a bit askance, then started thinking of me as a "funny guy" sort... or worse. Ha!
After that, a mostly pleasant drive back to my current abode. I think I missed the call from the representative of the Knights of Columbus, but I still do not have the name and address of the storage unit. Being a little tired though, I decided instead to research chiropractic clinics. I found little of use online, so I went by when the doctor (clinician?) was licensed, preferring middle over old or young. Oh Noes! He's ageist! Pshah... Right! I have set up an appointment for 10:00 am in the morning.
Now, to get that address and the name of my storage company. I think I can do that online as well. I do not know the number, however. That is no problem as I know where it is in the complex and I will need to be with them as it is keypad restricted and I will not give that out. As well, it might simply be easier to meet somewhere where people can park, we can take just a few vehicles including the hauling truck, and proceed that way. A big lot, like one Wal-Mart has, far from the store, should do? Yes, I think so. There simply is not good parking at where I am staying or at the storage facility.
And finally, my hand... Oh my what a splint and good bandaging does to help and prevent extra pain! I may not be genius, but I can be practical. Though the pencils would have worked, these bamboo slats are perfect. They are strong and yet flexible, perfect for splints, and with an added natural curve that surrounds the finger as well. Of course, I have the Mr. here to thank for that particular stroke of genius. I have a top and bottom one. I think that was my problem yesterday. PAIN! I could not feel all of it but it was quietly digging into my life and psyche. PAIN! It was there, and is still here. But my head is now above the threshold, not down below in animal land.
Well, it is getting done. One job after the next, one project at a time, even on top of being incapacitated and disabled, it is going like clockwork, if not the timing and way I intended. I am off to, maybe?, feed my face... Oh, after finding the address to the storage shed. They will want that anyway, even if my meet and consolidate plan goes forward.
Have a great day!
Monday, June 7, 2010
Urhm, I do apologize.
.
.
The swearing and edited swearing is not how I want things to go. I will not edit out, I will live with my mistakes. Getting a little hot under the collar about a dozen things is not a reason. Physical trauma shock is a reason, but I do not think I am quite there, if I have hovered near there a time or two today. Packing the finger will help, though I do not think that was my problem. Then again, I am not sure what my problem was. I know it's been building and worsening for days though.
In any case, there it is. An apology for course language. I will do my best to mind my words better in the future. Sleep well.
.
The swearing and edited swearing is not how I want things to go. I will not edit out, I will live with my mistakes. Getting a little hot under the collar about a dozen things is not a reason. Physical trauma shock is a reason, but I do not think I am quite there, if I have hovered near there a time or two today. Packing the finger will help, though I do not think that was my problem. Then again, I am not sure what my problem was. I know it's been building and worsening for days though.
In any case, there it is. An apology for course language. I will do my best to mind my words better in the future. Sleep well.
Go figure.
.
.
The bandaid will not work. I am going to need to go to Walgreen and ask what might help. My finger needs more support, like it or not, for some time. That or I am going to have to get used to pain every time I move quickly, use the other three fingers on that hand, or handle just about anything. I will simply have to see what they have and what they recommend. I will not say I nearly severed the finger, I will say I nearly severed the flesh on the bottom half of it and that the doctor finished the job making sure I had not cut nerves or tendons (though rightly I think).
I got busy and forgot I was writing this. Back!
Oh, one other thing, they did not even clean the wound. So, I bought hydrogen peroxide, and like the dressing, will do it myself. Thanks, doc. Give my regards to the V.A.! Anyway... Walgreens had finger splints, but for normal sized people. They all came right about exactly to the wound site. The man who was helping me look suggested popsicle sticks. Not knowing where I would get such a thing, I just bought a package of pencils.
I then drove to my home and checked on Sam. Sam, it seems, is the name of my cat. She is about 7 years old. I took food for myself, but will not eat in front of her for now. I did need to add food to her feeder but the water delivery is still good. Oddly, though I was sure I shut all the doors to bedrooms and the back room, specifically so she would not enter those areas, they were all wide open. I have closed them again and will know soon if someone has been in there. That will have to stop. And trust me, it will.
I took the auto in and an appraisal will be forthcoming in the morning. I also contacted someone at the Church who passed my information on to a member of the Knights (of Columbus), who then contacted me. I gave him what information I could and he suggested he will try to line up a group of gents to move sometime this week. I suggested that I would feel much better if I could offer a decent feed and offer some money, to the organization or church, and that I hoped he could consider what I could do. It is not payment, or pay, at all. It is merely being allowed to give at least a token thanks.
Tomorrow I have to take the Xterra into the garage for a (long overdue by the way) oil change and checkup. I could change the oil, but I really cannot do a checkup. And, with dealing with the spent oil, messing with the machine, and other things, this is simply easier. I have some doubts about how much I would save doing it myself either. If I were a competent grease monkey, maybe. I am not. Or yet. As well, I need to call some insurance agent (of some sort) back tomorrow. Though I spoke to mine today, and this other one is out of Des Moines, Iowa, so... Who knows, maybe the company's left and right hands are getting crossed. I also ran out of time to check on a chiropractor today. Another thing to do, of course.
I swear, I am doing more work not moving in than I would have if I had hauled everything... on a bicycle! So be it.
Oh, when I returned to where I am staying, I asked the Mr. if he happened to have a tool by which I could adjust the length of the pencils. Something for him to do and think about! He is a thinker and tinkerer too. Atheist, Catholic, Evangelical... it simply does not matter when it comes to devising, more so on the male side? Yeah. Anyway, he dropped the sitcom, set the book aside, and headed to the garage. I could see the wheels spinning. Pencils? He asked. Hmm, do think this would be... No, this! Bamboo, he said. And from their place in Hawaii. I looked. Strips about 3/4 of an inch to an inch wide and plenty long enough to cut for perfect fits. Nice! We did sight measurements, he cut, and then even sandpapered them to ensure they were safe. I suggested I had some pencils for sale, cheap! Then suggested even if he took the pencils, I probably owed him for the bamboo. Ha.
So, with the gauze, bandage material, hydrogen peroxide, self sticking tape, and these, I should be in good shape. I am more than a little disappointed in the hospital and the poor treatment I got there over some other, non-related health issue, one I was not even there about, though. Zealots really piss me off, especially when through their zealousness they fail to do their fundamental f%c)ing job! Ugh!
.
The bandaid will not work. I am going to need to go to Walgreen and ask what might help. My finger needs more support, like it or not, for some time. That or I am going to have to get used to pain every time I move quickly, use the other three fingers on that hand, or handle just about anything. I will simply have to see what they have and what they recommend. I will not say I nearly severed the finger, I will say I nearly severed the flesh on the bottom half of it and that the doctor finished the job making sure I had not cut nerves or tendons (though rightly I think).
I got busy and forgot I was writing this. Back!
Oh, one other thing, they did not even clean the wound. So, I bought hydrogen peroxide, and like the dressing, will do it myself. Thanks, doc. Give my regards to the V.A.! Anyway... Walgreens had finger splints, but for normal sized people. They all came right about exactly to the wound site. The man who was helping me look suggested popsicle sticks. Not knowing where I would get such a thing, I just bought a package of pencils.
I then drove to my home and checked on Sam. Sam, it seems, is the name of my cat. She is about 7 years old. I took food for myself, but will not eat in front of her for now. I did need to add food to her feeder but the water delivery is still good. Oddly, though I was sure I shut all the doors to bedrooms and the back room, specifically so she would not enter those areas, they were all wide open. I have closed them again and will know soon if someone has been in there. That will have to stop. And trust me, it will.
I took the auto in and an appraisal will be forthcoming in the morning. I also contacted someone at the Church who passed my information on to a member of the Knights (of Columbus), who then contacted me. I gave him what information I could and he suggested he will try to line up a group of gents to move sometime this week. I suggested that I would feel much better if I could offer a decent feed and offer some money, to the organization or church, and that I hoped he could consider what I could do. It is not payment, or pay, at all. It is merely being allowed to give at least a token thanks.
Tomorrow I have to take the Xterra into the garage for a (long overdue by the way) oil change and checkup. I could change the oil, but I really cannot do a checkup. And, with dealing with the spent oil, messing with the machine, and other things, this is simply easier. I have some doubts about how much I would save doing it myself either. If I were a competent grease monkey, maybe. I am not. Or yet. As well, I need to call some insurance agent (of some sort) back tomorrow. Though I spoke to mine today, and this other one is out of Des Moines, Iowa, so... Who knows, maybe the company's left and right hands are getting crossed. I also ran out of time to check on a chiropractor today. Another thing to do, of course.
I swear, I am doing more work not moving in than I would have if I had hauled everything... on a bicycle! So be it.
Oh, when I returned to where I am staying, I asked the Mr. if he happened to have a tool by which I could adjust the length of the pencils. Something for him to do and think about! He is a thinker and tinkerer too. Atheist, Catholic, Evangelical... it simply does not matter when it comes to devising, more so on the male side? Yeah. Anyway, he dropped the sitcom, set the book aside, and headed to the garage. I could see the wheels spinning. Pencils? He asked. Hmm, do think this would be... No, this! Bamboo, he said. And from their place in Hawaii. I looked. Strips about 3/4 of an inch to an inch wide and plenty long enough to cut for perfect fits. Nice! We did sight measurements, he cut, and then even sandpapered them to ensure they were safe. I suggested I had some pencils for sale, cheap! Then suggested even if he took the pencils, I probably owed him for the bamboo. Ha.
So, with the gauze, bandage material, hydrogen peroxide, self sticking tape, and these, I should be in good shape. I am more than a little disappointed in the hospital and the poor treatment I got there over some other, non-related health issue, one I was not even there about, though. Zealots really piss me off, especially when through their zealousness they fail to do their fundamental f%c)ing job! Ugh!
Oil, doom, and gloom.
.
.
Please, knock off the nonsense.
Is what is happening bad? Sure enough, and on many levels. And? First of all, about the only way to efficiently end the global need for energy is to kill about one third to ninety percent of the population. Which, of course, is on the menu. But abortion seems to be too little too late for many, so Bill Gates suggests that through "vaccines and medical care" he hopes to REDUCE the world population by 10% to 15%. That is, by the way, pretty close to a quote. Secondly, from what I have seen in the world, shit happens! Really, really. On a personal level and on up to a global level. Man made, act of nature, unknown... shit simply happens. And finally, from what I have seen, the worse the shit the better the outcome in the long run.
No, I do not recommend blowing another well. Neither do I suggest shutting down all rigs and closing drilling permit processes. What I recommend is doing what we can and simply understanding accidents happen. And blame? Best look in the mirror. Whoever you are, wherever you live, you are a party to this. It was your demand, acted upon by a third party, which caused this. You who are against drilling in relatively safe areas on land, where this would not be an issue, are even MORE guilty. You have forced companies to attempt to drill a MILE UNDER AN UNSTABLE BODY OF WATER. What the hell were you thinking? Or, were you simply not thinking, just following your own, if shared, teleprompter?
You want to go agrarian? Me too, but I am doing something about it. And, I am not trying to force the rest of the world to die off in order that those who remain can survive on the LESS EFFICIENT means of food and other production. You guys drive me nuts. Do what you want to do, then tune out the rest. Most of the "big" people, like Al Gore, live on a grotesque diet of your stupidity. Go get a clue.
The oil will eventually be stopped, the damage done will be managed, the government will claim a success it had nothing to do with (this particular rig received an Obama award last year, by the way), and even sea life will come back just fine, probably better than ever.
If you live on that coast, work in the fisheries there, or otherwise this is a very personal heartache, go ahead and vent. I can bite into that, sympathize, and try to understand. If this is not your livelihood or hometown, shut the hell up already. And really, if this merely puts yachting out for you, more of the same of that last.
Of course, to all you squeaker lefties, I do have some good news. Most of Britain's government retirement (and plush they are) funds are tied to BP, heavily. You, if you keep up your protests, lawsuits, and boycotts will more quickly destroy a socialist model. So, keep up the good work. Purely by accident of your own ignorance you are doing a world of good. You were not called useful idiots by accident. It is about time you get something right, if for the (as always regardless of the outcome) wrong reasons. Cheers.
.
Please, knock off the nonsense.
Is what is happening bad? Sure enough, and on many levels. And? First of all, about the only way to efficiently end the global need for energy is to kill about one third to ninety percent of the population. Which, of course, is on the menu. But abortion seems to be too little too late for many, so Bill Gates suggests that through "vaccines and medical care" he hopes to REDUCE the world population by 10% to 15%. That is, by the way, pretty close to a quote. Secondly, from what I have seen in the world, shit happens! Really, really. On a personal level and on up to a global level. Man made, act of nature, unknown... shit simply happens. And finally, from what I have seen, the worse the shit the better the outcome in the long run.
No, I do not recommend blowing another well. Neither do I suggest shutting down all rigs and closing drilling permit processes. What I recommend is doing what we can and simply understanding accidents happen. And blame? Best look in the mirror. Whoever you are, wherever you live, you are a party to this. It was your demand, acted upon by a third party, which caused this. You who are against drilling in relatively safe areas on land, where this would not be an issue, are even MORE guilty. You have forced companies to attempt to drill a MILE UNDER AN UNSTABLE BODY OF WATER. What the hell were you thinking? Or, were you simply not thinking, just following your own, if shared, teleprompter?
You want to go agrarian? Me too, but I am doing something about it. And, I am not trying to force the rest of the world to die off in order that those who remain can survive on the LESS EFFICIENT means of food and other production. You guys drive me nuts. Do what you want to do, then tune out the rest. Most of the "big" people, like Al Gore, live on a grotesque diet of your stupidity. Go get a clue.
The oil will eventually be stopped, the damage done will be managed, the government will claim a success it had nothing to do with (this particular rig received an Obama award last year, by the way), and even sea life will come back just fine, probably better than ever.
If you live on that coast, work in the fisheries there, or otherwise this is a very personal heartache, go ahead and vent. I can bite into that, sympathize, and try to understand. If this is not your livelihood or hometown, shut the hell up already. And really, if this merely puts yachting out for you, more of the same of that last.
Of course, to all you squeaker lefties, I do have some good news. Most of Britain's government retirement (and plush they are) funds are tied to BP, heavily. You, if you keep up your protests, lawsuits, and boycotts will more quickly destroy a socialist model. So, keep up the good work. Purely by accident of your own ignorance you are doing a world of good. You were not called useful idiots by accident. It is about time you get something right, if for the (as always regardless of the outcome) wrong reasons. Cheers.
Yeah? Whatever.
.
.
An unsuccessful call to the church, my local dealership, and return call to an insurance agent, a successful call to one auto shop (on the insurance company's list), a stop at the hospital for a finger checkup and bandage removal, then lunch. Now, more calls and perhaps some travel if necessary.
The hand does hurt worse. The bandage kept the finger rather static. Still, it is good to have the packing gone as it made any use of my left hand complicated. I just have to remember not to jam my hand in my pocket in a wild search for something. While the doctor was looking at this, he gave me a long lecture about my blood pressure. I gave him a "put up or shut up speech" back. He shut up, but had to let one more comment fly on his cowardly way out. That is the, yeah, whatever... Whatever. I was there for my finger, not some high falooting opinion based on an economy to which I am not privy. Why did he not just tell me to spend a million on a house in Hawaii while he was at it? And HE certainly would not treat it or deal with the issue. Scoot.
I have one definite visit this afternoon and would like to have another. I also need to call my landlord from Iowa for a letter indicating that I have not resided at that address since last July. I am hoping to contact the Church today as well, if I can get through. Oh, and I best start the antibiotics. I did get bandages, the ones they suggested, and triple antibiotic cream. Who knows, though, what will get done when. I really hate being a prisoner to conditions. I would have been moved in by now if I had not sliced my finger or been rear ended. The first may have lead to the rush that caused the second... or not. Who knows about even that?
Well, back to it. Good day.
Update: Oh, the hospital was so busy worrying about my high blood pressure they released me without re-bandaging my hand. I wondered about that, but who am I? I just got a message saying if I wanted to come back in I could, since it is SUCH A DEEP WOUND, or just follow some very non-descript instructions on my release papers. Thanks but no thanks... a bandaid will do, and a little triple anti-b ointment. I think I will handle my own stitch removal too, thank you just the same. And anyone wonders why I question medicine??? Thanks for the laughs folks...
.
An unsuccessful call to the church, my local dealership, and return call to an insurance agent, a successful call to one auto shop (on the insurance company's list), a stop at the hospital for a finger checkup and bandage removal, then lunch. Now, more calls and perhaps some travel if necessary.
The hand does hurt worse. The bandage kept the finger rather static. Still, it is good to have the packing gone as it made any use of my left hand complicated. I just have to remember not to jam my hand in my pocket in a wild search for something. While the doctor was looking at this, he gave me a long lecture about my blood pressure. I gave him a "put up or shut up speech" back. He shut up, but had to let one more comment fly on his cowardly way out. That is the, yeah, whatever... Whatever. I was there for my finger, not some high falooting opinion based on an economy to which I am not privy. Why did he not just tell me to spend a million on a house in Hawaii while he was at it? And HE certainly would not treat it or deal with the issue. Scoot.
I have one definite visit this afternoon and would like to have another. I also need to call my landlord from Iowa for a letter indicating that I have not resided at that address since last July. I am hoping to contact the Church today as well, if I can get through. Oh, and I best start the antibiotics. I did get bandages, the ones they suggested, and triple antibiotic cream. Who knows, though, what will get done when. I really hate being a prisoner to conditions. I would have been moved in by now if I had not sliced my finger or been rear ended. The first may have lead to the rush that caused the second... or not. Who knows about even that?
Well, back to it. Good day.
Update: Oh, the hospital was so busy worrying about my high blood pressure they released me without re-bandaging my hand. I wondered about that, but who am I? I just got a message saying if I wanted to come back in I could, since it is SUCH A DEEP WOUND, or just follow some very non-descript instructions on my release papers. Thanks but no thanks... a bandaid will do, and a little triple anti-b ointment. I think I will handle my own stitch removal too, thank you just the same. And anyone wonders why I question medicine??? Thanks for the laughs folks...
Doctors, bandages, and calls.
.
.
There is so much to do today that I am not sure where to start. I think I will go to the hospital first. The bandage on my hand makes doing much else complicated. Still, with another 9 to 11 days before I should be using it... Oh well. Then a call to several places about my auto. A call and maybe a little internet searching for a chiropractor. And then at least one call regarding getting moved. If I have time, I will also try to get some boxes for any little bits still here.
After the calls, of course, I then will have to go places and wait for service, estimates, and whatnot. I suppose I am going to be happy if I actually get one or two things done and have the rest of the projects on a sure schedule to be done. Life and work simply does not happen quickly.
I found my script yesterday and went to the pharmacy. At $4 dollars, I decided that was well within my range and purchased the antibiotics. I did decide to take another painkiller last night and slept well for it. I realized, however, that I had already taken two. I must have taken another the night before without remembering having done so. Oh well. At least they have not given me a grungy sensation, that weird out-of-focus sense that painkillers often give. Then again, I am sleeping through the effects so I am not sure.
The cut actually hurts more this morning than it has so far. Since I do not need to sleep though, and I can handle it, I will go without painkillers. Then again, and in truth, the pain is quite mild... just noticeable (and enough that I would not be able to sleep well, if at all, with the pain). I will, however, begin the antibiotics (which I left in the auto last night and was too tired to retrieve when I realized it at bedtime. I think 4 doses of 500mg per day for 7 days... I think I can, I think I can. I do harp about taking the complete dose and for the full duration and so I will follow my own advice... as I am able. Ugh...
Calling the Church is giving me belly butterflies. I hate asking, let alone begging. When buying a home, money is not quite what it was. I cannot just spend more and wait for the reserves to fill up, it simply does not work that way. And yet I am so nervous about the church after having watched a pro-O "Catholic" threaten to hit one who did not vote for the most pro-abortion pResident on record. Also making him the greatest Uncle Tom in history. And they call ME racist!
Anyway, that must be done. I suppose, like the cat, fate is intervening. I will have a chance to speak with some of the congregants and get some idea about this church. Or maybe they cannot help and I will just figure out how to pay. Life is a trap, it seems. There is no "out". Then again, that is why we have a brain, and a heart and soul? Yeah, okay. Got it.
Well, a shower, shave, and a new day. Have a good day.
.
There is so much to do today that I am not sure where to start. I think I will go to the hospital first. The bandage on my hand makes doing much else complicated. Still, with another 9 to 11 days before I should be using it... Oh well. Then a call to several places about my auto. A call and maybe a little internet searching for a chiropractor. And then at least one call regarding getting moved. If I have time, I will also try to get some boxes for any little bits still here.
After the calls, of course, I then will have to go places and wait for service, estimates, and whatnot. I suppose I am going to be happy if I actually get one or two things done and have the rest of the projects on a sure schedule to be done. Life and work simply does not happen quickly.
I found my script yesterday and went to the pharmacy. At $4 dollars, I decided that was well within my range and purchased the antibiotics. I did decide to take another painkiller last night and slept well for it. I realized, however, that I had already taken two. I must have taken another the night before without remembering having done so. Oh well. At least they have not given me a grungy sensation, that weird out-of-focus sense that painkillers often give. Then again, I am sleeping through the effects so I am not sure.
The cut actually hurts more this morning than it has so far. Since I do not need to sleep though, and I can handle it, I will go without painkillers. Then again, and in truth, the pain is quite mild... just noticeable (and enough that I would not be able to sleep well, if at all, with the pain). I will, however, begin the antibiotics (which I left in the auto last night and was too tired to retrieve when I realized it at bedtime. I think 4 doses of 500mg per day for 7 days... I think I can, I think I can. I do harp about taking the complete dose and for the full duration and so I will follow my own advice... as I am able. Ugh...
Calling the Church is giving me belly butterflies. I hate asking, let alone begging. When buying a home, money is not quite what it was. I cannot just spend more and wait for the reserves to fill up, it simply does not work that way. And yet I am so nervous about the church after having watched a pro-O "Catholic" threaten to hit one who did not vote for the most pro-abortion pResident on record. Also making him the greatest Uncle Tom in history. And they call ME racist!
Anyway, that must be done. I suppose, like the cat, fate is intervening. I will have a chance to speak with some of the congregants and get some idea about this church. Or maybe they cannot help and I will just figure out how to pay. Life is a trap, it seems. There is no "out". Then again, that is why we have a brain, and a heart and soul? Yeah, okay. Got it.
Well, a shower, shave, and a new day. Have a good day.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Pain.
.
.
Yes indeed... sort of.
Last night I could not sleep well. Initially I could not sleep at all. Though when I went to bed I still had no feeling in my finger, and to some degree a goodly part of my hand, something was happening. Those parts were about to wake up and I think I knew it. I did rest a bit. I dozed quite lightly off and on. But sleep was not going to be had. At about 1:00 it came. I could only feel some of it, but I think it was far worse than I could consciously sense. I went into physical shock. I became extremely chilled, a bit nauseous, and had some other sensations I attribute to shock, having only a few weeks back gone through it while fully awake.
I had not taken a pain killer up to that point. First, I hate medicine. Second, I wanted to get a good handle on what type of pain I would encounter and so have a better raw sense of how to handle it. There were a few other minor reasons as well but these given should suffice toward an explanation. By 1:30 I decided to take one of the tabs. I am, by instructions, allowed up to 2 of those pills every 4 hours. I did not want to fully dose in case I needed more. Having an extra step, I think, helps psychologically.
As I said, as well, I do not think I can fully sense pain. What I did feel and the sensation of slipping into shock did allow me to go ahead and do a half dose, that one pill. The bones in my hand hurt and there was pain sensation coming from various parts of my finger. Even the tourniquet area was sore. Weird, perhaps, but I know there was a lot more pain than what I could feel.
After that I slept well. I did have to cover up, bundling very tightly and layering heavily. I shook for a good 15 minutes to a half hour, then warmed enough to sleep. I would guess a few hours later I woke enough to realize I was too warm and kicked my feet out and loosened the cocoon I had created, then slept like a baby the rest of the night. Some pain is sensed this morning, though so mildly that I am not going to take aspirin. I would guess last night was it, minus a major bump or something. The swelling, is down a great deal. It is my guess that as the swelling reduced last night, the nerve became reactivated. Not only did I then become able to sense the pain from the cut and still somewhat swollen area, I also had the pain from the area "waking up", like when you have sat on a leg wrongly for too long and the pins and needles type sensation occurs as that part gets blood back.
The point of the post? I realize I do not sense pain accurately or well. I am desensitized to pain. I fear pain, have no doubt. I fear it far more than I feel it in truth. This is something I need to be aware of in order that I not stretch beyond myself into more serious injury.
I watched Fight Club just now. I had seen it before. I realize that, the movie anyway, talks about certain aspects of my life and persona. I realize I have some of the condition of the main character. I used to think I had that down fully. But watching it this time I realized... my lady friend probably knows more than she has ever said. So have all my women. But I think they understand it far less than even I do. They just have the same 'hiss' and 'screech' reaction as the main female in the show... and a similar very deep love hate relationship with me from what I am. And I have never understood that, so much, until this second viewing of the show. Interesting... to me if no one else.
Well, I'm off to get a shower, go buy some chicken and a six pack, and maybe stop over at my friend's house to check on him. I had let that last bit slide, that of checking on him, for a bit as the house became more pressing. I might have to get him into gardening a bit, just to get him out of his apartment, give him something to do of use (which I think he wants, just needs a reason and some direction), and then to offer him fresh tomatoes and such later. We can always go shooting afterward.
Have a good day.
.
Yes indeed... sort of.
Last night I could not sleep well. Initially I could not sleep at all. Though when I went to bed I still had no feeling in my finger, and to some degree a goodly part of my hand, something was happening. Those parts were about to wake up and I think I knew it. I did rest a bit. I dozed quite lightly off and on. But sleep was not going to be had. At about 1:00 it came. I could only feel some of it, but I think it was far worse than I could consciously sense. I went into physical shock. I became extremely chilled, a bit nauseous, and had some other sensations I attribute to shock, having only a few weeks back gone through it while fully awake.
I had not taken a pain killer up to that point. First, I hate medicine. Second, I wanted to get a good handle on what type of pain I would encounter and so have a better raw sense of how to handle it. There were a few other minor reasons as well but these given should suffice toward an explanation. By 1:30 I decided to take one of the tabs. I am, by instructions, allowed up to 2 of those pills every 4 hours. I did not want to fully dose in case I needed more. Having an extra step, I think, helps psychologically.
As I said, as well, I do not think I can fully sense pain. What I did feel and the sensation of slipping into shock did allow me to go ahead and do a half dose, that one pill. The bones in my hand hurt and there was pain sensation coming from various parts of my finger. Even the tourniquet area was sore. Weird, perhaps, but I know there was a lot more pain than what I could feel.
After that I slept well. I did have to cover up, bundling very tightly and layering heavily. I shook for a good 15 minutes to a half hour, then warmed enough to sleep. I would guess a few hours later I woke enough to realize I was too warm and kicked my feet out and loosened the cocoon I had created, then slept like a baby the rest of the night. Some pain is sensed this morning, though so mildly that I am not going to take aspirin. I would guess last night was it, minus a major bump or something. The swelling, is down a great deal. It is my guess that as the swelling reduced last night, the nerve became reactivated. Not only did I then become able to sense the pain from the cut and still somewhat swollen area, I also had the pain from the area "waking up", like when you have sat on a leg wrongly for too long and the pins and needles type sensation occurs as that part gets blood back.
The point of the post? I realize I do not sense pain accurately or well. I am desensitized to pain. I fear pain, have no doubt. I fear it far more than I feel it in truth. This is something I need to be aware of in order that I not stretch beyond myself into more serious injury.
I watched Fight Club just now. I had seen it before. I realize that, the movie anyway, talks about certain aspects of my life and persona. I realize I have some of the condition of the main character. I used to think I had that down fully. But watching it this time I realized... my lady friend probably knows more than she has ever said. So have all my women. But I think they understand it far less than even I do. They just have the same 'hiss' and 'screech' reaction as the main female in the show... and a similar very deep love hate relationship with me from what I am. And I have never understood that, so much, until this second viewing of the show. Interesting... to me if no one else.
Well, I'm off to get a shower, go buy some chicken and a six pack, and maybe stop over at my friend's house to check on him. I had let that last bit slide, that of checking on him, for a bit as the house became more pressing. I might have to get him into gardening a bit, just to get him out of his apartment, give him something to do of use (which I think he wants, just needs a reason and some direction), and then to offer him fresh tomatoes and such later. We can always go shooting afterward.
Have a good day.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
What else I asked.
.
.
And, of course there is an answer. More stitches. A block from picking up the trailer, I stopped for gas. While I was filling up, I decided to install the ball mount, and the lock. The ball mount went in fine, but the lock was held in place with plastic ties. The first cut relatively well. The second would not give and would not give and then held zero resistance. I finished cutting it and the blade sliced nearly to the bone, at an angle from the stem of my finger to about half way to the knuckle. Did I mention that I have long fingers?
I decided to go home and simply try to stop the bleeding, assuming that when it stopped I would reassess the situation. An hour passed and the bleeding had not stopped. I then called the V.A. The first "nurse" I spoke with kept asking for information, which at this time had to be right in front of her. After five minutes, I gave up and hung up on her. What I had been using to attempt to stem the blood flow had given out and I was getting drenched. I then called the local hospital. All I wanted to know, at this point, was what else I could do. They suggested I simply come in to the emergency room. Still, after last time, I wanted something from the V.A. So I called the main hospital and asked to speak to an E.R. nurse.
We spoke for a bit. She did not suggest I go in, and could not offer any clearance. Though she thought it would be nifty if I drove 2 1/2 hours at interstate speeds, having bleed for two hours already though. Yeah. So, I called my Mom. She TOLD me to go in, told me to worry about any costs later, and told me to call her when it was done.
So, in I go... again. Good thing too. I nicked vein, could have cut nerve or tendon, and this thing would not have stopped bleeding. They, in part because they were very busy, tried to get it to stop as well for another hour. After that came partial numbing and an attempt to look. Far too much blood was flowing. Finally, they right properly numbed the hand, for more serious work. A tourniquet was applied to my wrist to staunch the flow, which only mostly worked due to my high blood pressure. Good enough though. They found the bleeder, stitched and or cauterized it, looked around a bit, and thought it looked good, so closed up the major part.
I have to go back Monday. They prescribed antibiotics, which I do not know if I can afford to fill and gave me painkillers, should I need them. My hand is out of commission for 12 to 14 days. So, I will have to try to find help in getting moved. I am not even supposed to type! No worries, using one hand hunt and peck. This IS taking forever to write though. My brevity certainly helps! :)
The reason I worry about the antibiotic cost is... I will now have to find some bodies, for pay, to do the heavy lifting. I simply cannot be here any longer. This might actually make the move faster... but much, much, more expensive. My mother suggested I contact the Church. She is right, if I feel wrong about asking favors not having been participating. Still... And it would offer me more incentive to go and some contacts within the Church. Hmm, something about fools and pride and fall? Check. Humble pie time methinks.
Well... Later.
.
And, of course there is an answer. More stitches. A block from picking up the trailer, I stopped for gas. While I was filling up, I decided to install the ball mount, and the lock. The ball mount went in fine, but the lock was held in place with plastic ties. The first cut relatively well. The second would not give and would not give and then held zero resistance. I finished cutting it and the blade sliced nearly to the bone, at an angle from the stem of my finger to about half way to the knuckle. Did I mention that I have long fingers?
I decided to go home and simply try to stop the bleeding, assuming that when it stopped I would reassess the situation. An hour passed and the bleeding had not stopped. I then called the V.A. The first "nurse" I spoke with kept asking for information, which at this time had to be right in front of her. After five minutes, I gave up and hung up on her. What I had been using to attempt to stem the blood flow had given out and I was getting drenched. I then called the local hospital. All I wanted to know, at this point, was what else I could do. They suggested I simply come in to the emergency room. Still, after last time, I wanted something from the V.A. So I called the main hospital and asked to speak to an E.R. nurse.
We spoke for a bit. She did not suggest I go in, and could not offer any clearance. Though she thought it would be nifty if I drove 2 1/2 hours at interstate speeds, having bleed for two hours already though. Yeah. So, I called my Mom. She TOLD me to go in, told me to worry about any costs later, and told me to call her when it was done.
So, in I go... again. Good thing too. I nicked vein, could have cut nerve or tendon, and this thing would not have stopped bleeding. They, in part because they were very busy, tried to get it to stop as well for another hour. After that came partial numbing and an attempt to look. Far too much blood was flowing. Finally, they right properly numbed the hand, for more serious work. A tourniquet was applied to my wrist to staunch the flow, which only mostly worked due to my high blood pressure. Good enough though. They found the bleeder, stitched and or cauterized it, looked around a bit, and thought it looked good, so closed up the major part.
I have to go back Monday. They prescribed antibiotics, which I do not know if I can afford to fill and gave me painkillers, should I need them. My hand is out of commission for 12 to 14 days. So, I will have to try to find help in getting moved. I am not even supposed to type! No worries, using one hand hunt and peck. This IS taking forever to write though. My brevity certainly helps! :)
The reason I worry about the antibiotic cost is... I will now have to find some bodies, for pay, to do the heavy lifting. I simply cannot be here any longer. This might actually make the move faster... but much, much, more expensive. My mother suggested I contact the Church. She is right, if I feel wrong about asking favors not having been participating. Still... And it would offer me more incentive to go and some contacts within the Church. Hmm, something about fools and pride and fall? Check. Humble pie time methinks.
Well... Later.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Coming down to earth.
.
.
A peaceful ending to a hectic day. I am feeling a little more human, though I can see where I need to watch myself a bit. I am likely to snap, not in the hard way like the taxi cab driver or something. Still, I might say something that need not be said. I am likely to overreact as well. I am still running on adrenaline. That is slowly leaving my system, as I suggested. Perhaps I will find some good sleep tonight.
I was able to do about half of what I wanted. The fax was received, signed, and sent. A ball hitch and lock where purchased. I also bought a couple of cat toys and an automatic watering dish (low tech so we will see on that last, but I have a mop and bucket). I also took the soundboard back. Of course, I was directed to returns, where it was suggested that I look for another card. They had no other cards, beside the brand I had just found out does not support what the box says it supports, so I left without going back to returns. After all of my other tasks where completed, and I had just purchased food, I realized my oversight. Thankfully that ended up being no difficulty and I was refunded in full.
The promised headache has been, so far, managed by the aspirin. I plan on taking another similar dose before going to bed. My back, on the other hand, does hurt a good bit. If I lean or bend, I am reminded that something is wrong. Depending on how I feel in the morning, someone may be consulted. I am torn about whether to go to the emergency room as the woman from the insurance company suggested or whether to go to a chiropractor as others have suggested. I do not, necessarily, trust either. One, traditional medicine, will say nothing is wrong, the pain you are feeling is your fault. The other, the chiropractor, will say "Oh my God, you are dying! Come in, come in, this will only take two years, 4 times a month, to fix". Well, that is how it seems. It would be nice to have medicine, one way or another, that I could trust.
The insurance company wants me to go to their collision centers for estimates and repairs. I suggested that this would not work, though I took down some names and numbers. I will also seek independent quotes regarding the damage and repair as well. Why in the world would I trust the people, or the business in general, which is going to have to pay for the accident? That sounds a lot like simply asking the guy who hit me how much he would like to pay, right? No, no way. While I was talking to the woman from the insurance company, she was taking notes about "what to expect from me, and my general attitude..." for the claims agent who would be dealing with me. She actually told me this. Why, I do not even care. I can see it now... "He is not a sheeple. He actually expects legitimate repairs. He will not merely take whatever we are willing to scrape together as settlement." I do not want more than is due, but I want legitimate repairs and proper cosmetic fixes. I did not buy a newer vehicle to "scrape by". Hmph!
That is it for tonight. A bit of tinkering and a little virtual window shopping maybe, then bed. I cannot buy as my address in my home town is not valid, the post office is too small to deliver in town, so I have to set up a post box before I can begin getting mail. One thing after another, it seems. Soon, within the week I hope, I will be moved in and marginally set up to begin doing some of the things that need to be done. I will, probably, at that point take a few days off, buy a twelve pack, and see how many I can smoothly and simply consume in a day period and then take the second day to rest off the charge, before digging into what needs to be done. Yes, I do believe so.
Good night.
.
A peaceful ending to a hectic day. I am feeling a little more human, though I can see where I need to watch myself a bit. I am likely to snap, not in the hard way like the taxi cab driver or something. Still, I might say something that need not be said. I am likely to overreact as well. I am still running on adrenaline. That is slowly leaving my system, as I suggested. Perhaps I will find some good sleep tonight.
I was able to do about half of what I wanted. The fax was received, signed, and sent. A ball hitch and lock where purchased. I also bought a couple of cat toys and an automatic watering dish (low tech so we will see on that last, but I have a mop and bucket). I also took the soundboard back. Of course, I was directed to returns, where it was suggested that I look for another card. They had no other cards, beside the brand I had just found out does not support what the box says it supports, so I left without going back to returns. After all of my other tasks where completed, and I had just purchased food, I realized my oversight. Thankfully that ended up being no difficulty and I was refunded in full.
The promised headache has been, so far, managed by the aspirin. I plan on taking another similar dose before going to bed. My back, on the other hand, does hurt a good bit. If I lean or bend, I am reminded that something is wrong. Depending on how I feel in the morning, someone may be consulted. I am torn about whether to go to the emergency room as the woman from the insurance company suggested or whether to go to a chiropractor as others have suggested. I do not, necessarily, trust either. One, traditional medicine, will say nothing is wrong, the pain you are feeling is your fault. The other, the chiropractor, will say "Oh my God, you are dying! Come in, come in, this will only take two years, 4 times a month, to fix". Well, that is how it seems. It would be nice to have medicine, one way or another, that I could trust.
The insurance company wants me to go to their collision centers for estimates and repairs. I suggested that this would not work, though I took down some names and numbers. I will also seek independent quotes regarding the damage and repair as well. Why in the world would I trust the people, or the business in general, which is going to have to pay for the accident? That sounds a lot like simply asking the guy who hit me how much he would like to pay, right? No, no way. While I was talking to the woman from the insurance company, she was taking notes about "what to expect from me, and my general attitude..." for the claims agent who would be dealing with me. She actually told me this. Why, I do not even care. I can see it now... "He is not a sheeple. He actually expects legitimate repairs. He will not merely take whatever we are willing to scrape together as settlement." I do not want more than is due, but I want legitimate repairs and proper cosmetic fixes. I did not buy a newer vehicle to "scrape by". Hmph!
That is it for tonight. A bit of tinkering and a little virtual window shopping maybe, then bed. I cannot buy as my address in my home town is not valid, the post office is too small to deliver in town, so I have to set up a post box before I can begin getting mail. One thing after another, it seems. Soon, within the week I hope, I will be moved in and marginally set up to begin doing some of the things that need to be done. I will, probably, at that point take a few days off, buy a twelve pack, and see how many I can smoothly and simply consume in a day period and then take the second day to rest off the charge, before digging into what needs to be done. Yes, I do believe so.
Good night.
Not an easy day.
.
.
Raining again today, so I thought I would grab a load or two just in the Xterra. I loaded up, headed out, and... bam! Driving along main street at about 35 miles an hour when traffic came to an immediate stop. I stopped, barely, but solidly. The '87 F-250 behind me did not. So, we drove out of traffic, into a lot. I couldn't find the police phone number in the phone book I had in the vehicle, so I went into the Chinese restaurant to ask. Uhrm, they did not know what I was asking. They did not know what the term police, phone number, or phone book meant, they certainly could not put it all together (or would not, more on that if you are interested). So, I went over to the pizza joint next door. By the time I called, the driver that bumped me had already called someone, or a dozen people, I think, one of whom then called the police.
A good half of an hour of waiting, or it seemed like it, and the policeman arrived. Information was gathered and he did his work. Of course, I was a bit discombobulated. I really thought I handled these things well, and I suppose I do in fact, but inside I was all messed up. In any case, a report was filed and everyone went their merry way. Good policing by the way, and yeah, it is nice when it works well.
Of course, nothing is so lacking in complications for me lately. I actually have two policies currently active on the vehicle, though one is about to be retro-deactivated. Which was which I could not be certain. The officer was fine with that and gave me his card, wrote a number that made reaching him easier, and just asked that I call back soon in order to fill the form out fully and correctly. I suppose it is better to have two policies active than none... still. As well, my renters insurance from Iowa is still active, ugh. I was sure I had asked to end that. Anyway, as long as I can get the owner of that property to verify that I am no longer renting there, they will rebate me back to when I moved... last July. Hmm, more money? Nice.
I finished unloading what I had. I am not listening to music at this point, in case I need to hear something wrong with the vehicle. It makes driving a bit annoying, and nervewracking, but so be it. The cat was fine, friendly as ever. I fed her a bit of milk, which she certainly does like! I also let her out, by leaving the door open for her, as much as she wanted while I was there. She comes in just fine, especially if I am going to be inside with her too. I found the paperwork from my insurance company (which was going to my new address before I had moved in, which they had to have known... Akch!).
I think I have cleared up almost everything with my insurance and the police. I have to get to FedEx Office and sign a fax, then fax that fax back, in order to rescind my other other auto policy shortly. I also need to contact my landlord from Iowa. I had planned to call him anyway, and let him know I was buying a home and to thank them for having been conscientious, kindly, and fair landlords. Hey, him and his wife were good people and landlords, what can I say. And I am considering a stop at the hospital. My neck is extremely tight, I have some nausea, and I can tell a headache is on the way. I just took 1500 mg of aspirin mixed with caffeine, since I could not find my Tylenol... which I think is in some box or other over at my home... probably.
ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! How much more can happen? Do not even dare answer that! I knew I would be busy getting in and setting up, but everything is slowing me down. The weather, an accident, 30 calls it seems just today, back and forth, over and under each other. And then, of course, my phone is dying for lack of battery. I shut the damn thing off and plugged it in. Oh, and I have to take a sound board back today, grab a few disposable cameras, consider a stop at the hospital, feed my face sometime, go to FedEx Office, get a ball mount for the trailer (I do not think the tow package was damaged?), and... and... some other stuff.
To say I am not a bit out of my depth would be to lie. I am under water, late, and in a hurry to do what cannot be done with any kind of speed. To say I can, will, or would quit is not true either. I guess I will do what I can with what I have in the time I have and hope for the best. And the headache is beginning. Buggers it all.
On the good side, I have a cat that loves me anyway. I think she would love anyone, but that is not the point. I need to get a comfy chair over there soon, so I can spend a more relaxed time with my new owner. Ugh... Ha! It ain't all bad. Oh, and I will be becoming friends with my slave driver in a home, my home. Yeah. Like one of my favored chiefs said, from Navy days... It's not a good day without at least one big thing and several small things to complain about. It is, indeed, a good day. No, no, it's a GREAT DAY!
Well, I best get to it. Laterz!
.
Raining again today, so I thought I would grab a load or two just in the Xterra. I loaded up, headed out, and... bam! Driving along main street at about 35 miles an hour when traffic came to an immediate stop. I stopped, barely, but solidly. The '87 F-250 behind me did not. So, we drove out of traffic, into a lot. I couldn't find the police phone number in the phone book I had in the vehicle, so I went into the Chinese restaurant to ask. Uhrm, they did not know what I was asking. They did not know what the term police, phone number, or phone book meant, they certainly could not put it all together (or would not, more on that if you are interested). So, I went over to the pizza joint next door. By the time I called, the driver that bumped me had already called someone, or a dozen people, I think, one of whom then called the police.
A good half of an hour of waiting, or it seemed like it, and the policeman arrived. Information was gathered and he did his work. Of course, I was a bit discombobulated. I really thought I handled these things well, and I suppose I do in fact, but inside I was all messed up. In any case, a report was filed and everyone went their merry way. Good policing by the way, and yeah, it is nice when it works well.
Of course, nothing is so lacking in complications for me lately. I actually have two policies currently active on the vehicle, though one is about to be retro-deactivated. Which was which I could not be certain. The officer was fine with that and gave me his card, wrote a number that made reaching him easier, and just asked that I call back soon in order to fill the form out fully and correctly. I suppose it is better to have two policies active than none... still. As well, my renters insurance from Iowa is still active, ugh. I was sure I had asked to end that. Anyway, as long as I can get the owner of that property to verify that I am no longer renting there, they will rebate me back to when I moved... last July. Hmm, more money? Nice.
I finished unloading what I had. I am not listening to music at this point, in case I need to hear something wrong with the vehicle. It makes driving a bit annoying, and nervewracking, but so be it. The cat was fine, friendly as ever. I fed her a bit of milk, which she certainly does like! I also let her out, by leaving the door open for her, as much as she wanted while I was there. She comes in just fine, especially if I am going to be inside with her too. I found the paperwork from my insurance company (which was going to my new address before I had moved in, which they had to have known... Akch!).
I think I have cleared up almost everything with my insurance and the police. I have to get to FedEx Office and sign a fax, then fax that fax back, in order to rescind my other other auto policy shortly. I also need to contact my landlord from Iowa. I had planned to call him anyway, and let him know I was buying a home and to thank them for having been conscientious, kindly, and fair landlords. Hey, him and his wife were good people and landlords, what can I say. And I am considering a stop at the hospital. My neck is extremely tight, I have some nausea, and I can tell a headache is on the way. I just took 1500 mg of aspirin mixed with caffeine, since I could not find my Tylenol... which I think is in some box or other over at my home... probably.
ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! How much more can happen? Do not even dare answer that! I knew I would be busy getting in and setting up, but everything is slowing me down. The weather, an accident, 30 calls it seems just today, back and forth, over and under each other. And then, of course, my phone is dying for lack of battery. I shut the damn thing off and plugged it in. Oh, and I have to take a sound board back today, grab a few disposable cameras, consider a stop at the hospital, feed my face sometime, go to FedEx Office, get a ball mount for the trailer (I do not think the tow package was damaged?), and... and... some other stuff.
To say I am not a bit out of my depth would be to lie. I am under water, late, and in a hurry to do what cannot be done with any kind of speed. To say I can, will, or would quit is not true either. I guess I will do what I can with what I have in the time I have and hope for the best. And the headache is beginning. Buggers it all.
On the good side, I have a cat that loves me anyway. I think she would love anyone, but that is not the point. I need to get a comfy chair over there soon, so I can spend a more relaxed time with my new owner. Ugh... Ha! It ain't all bad. Oh, and I will be becoming friends with my slave driver in a home, my home. Yeah. Like one of my favored chiefs said, from Navy days... It's not a good day without at least one big thing and several small things to complain about. It is, indeed, a good day. No, no, it's a GREAT DAY!
Well, I best get to it. Laterz!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The keys are...
.
.
Guess where the keys are? Oh fie, they are... A call midafternoon, right around 13:30 I would guess, let me know that the deal has recorded. The keys, ask I. In the house, it is unlocked. My broker wishes to bring a gift, so I wait for him. Wanting to go get the keys, check the place over, take a minor load with me, and make sure everything is tight, as it looks like it is going to rain... storm. After greetings and the gifts, which I will review shortly, I grab some food at McDonalds and nearly speed to my place.
I do not think anything would be amiss, not here. Or at least that is a minor concern. Rain is dominant, as for safety and security. Well, except that the looseness of how this, and everything about this deal, has been played touches something primal in me. I really do expect professionalism. And, for the most part, I offer it. In any case, all was well. Though there was one final surprise. A cat.
As I had said, every time I drove by the place leading up to the sale, I saw a cat in the window. I did not see her in the window this time. However, upon entering the residence, there was an unmistakable odor and then a cautious "meow?". Never to worry, though I did not know if this was an oversight or intended situation, or whether she was where she would have to be. I found a note indicating that the owners had tried to find her a home but had failed. There was almost a plea to take her in, an indication that she is a good mouser, and a bit more saying that if I did not want her, they would come and pick her up. I suspect her fate would not be good should that last occur. No, she has a home. In time she may even get a little sister, I prefer female cats. She is a splendid creature as well. I hope she is as pleased as I am?
Arriving back in Logan, I realize moving this afternoon would be difficult. It will most certainly rain, probably sooner than not, and rather heavily if the looks of things are to be believed. I spoke with my host and hostess, and they are not worried at all. The Mrs. would like me to make way in the refrigerator, first thing, should I have a working refrigerator, which I do. So, that will be first on my list tomorrow. Then I will pick up the trailer, which I must call and cancel for the today. The Mr. suggested he has a sturdy, industrial by the sound of it, dolly. So I will not need to buy one. And, he has suggested he will help with some of the larger items. The only thing that is heavy at all is the dresser. Though the queen sized bed and a few other pieces would be clumsy to do solo.
But the boxes are mine. I wish to move everything out of here first, then load boxes over, saving the heavier pieces and maybe some filler boxes to spare my help's back and time. It may take two days to get moved in. That is as far ahead as I can think, at the moment. At least I do not immediately need a refrigerator, washer, and dryer as I had thought I might. That saves time, money, effort, and scheduling difficulties. Ugh, but utilities, internet, mail... So much so fast, too much. It will get done. Ugh...
.
Guess where the keys are? Oh fie, they are... A call midafternoon, right around 13:30 I would guess, let me know that the deal has recorded. The keys, ask I. In the house, it is unlocked. My broker wishes to bring a gift, so I wait for him. Wanting to go get the keys, check the place over, take a minor load with me, and make sure everything is tight, as it looks like it is going to rain... storm. After greetings and the gifts, which I will review shortly, I grab some food at McDonalds and nearly speed to my place.
I do not think anything would be amiss, not here. Or at least that is a minor concern. Rain is dominant, as for safety and security. Well, except that the looseness of how this, and everything about this deal, has been played touches something primal in me. I really do expect professionalism. And, for the most part, I offer it. In any case, all was well. Though there was one final surprise. A cat.
As I had said, every time I drove by the place leading up to the sale, I saw a cat in the window. I did not see her in the window this time. However, upon entering the residence, there was an unmistakable odor and then a cautious "meow?". Never to worry, though I did not know if this was an oversight or intended situation, or whether she was where she would have to be. I found a note indicating that the owners had tried to find her a home but had failed. There was almost a plea to take her in, an indication that she is a good mouser, and a bit more saying that if I did not want her, they would come and pick her up. I suspect her fate would not be good should that last occur. No, she has a home. In time she may even get a little sister, I prefer female cats. She is a splendid creature as well. I hope she is as pleased as I am?
Arriving back in Logan, I realize moving this afternoon would be difficult. It will most certainly rain, probably sooner than not, and rather heavily if the looks of things are to be believed. I spoke with my host and hostess, and they are not worried at all. The Mrs. would like me to make way in the refrigerator, first thing, should I have a working refrigerator, which I do. So, that will be first on my list tomorrow. Then I will pick up the trailer, which I must call and cancel for the today. The Mr. suggested he has a sturdy, industrial by the sound of it, dolly. So I will not need to buy one. And, he has suggested he will help with some of the larger items. The only thing that is heavy at all is the dresser. Though the queen sized bed and a few other pieces would be clumsy to do solo.
But the boxes are mine. I wish to move everything out of here first, then load boxes over, saving the heavier pieces and maybe some filler boxes to spare my help's back and time. It may take two days to get moved in. That is as far ahead as I can think, at the moment. At least I do not immediately need a refrigerator, washer, and dryer as I had thought I might. That saves time, money, effort, and scheduling difficulties. Ugh, but utilities, internet, mail... So much so fast, too much. It will get done. Ugh...
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Sleep will be difficult.
.
.
I am hungry anyway, so a drive somewhere, for almost anything, might take my mind of the sale. Food, as well, rolling around in there causing my stomach some small joy, could help settle things a bit. Nothing like taking blood off the brain to help settle down.
Hmm, best keep the phone right near me, ready for that anticipated call tomorrow. Ugh. It's all good, and a gas too, right?
Good night.
.
I am hungry anyway, so a drive somewhere, for almost anything, might take my mind of the sale. Food, as well, rolling around in there causing my stomach some small joy, could help settle things a bit. Nothing like taking blood off the brain to help settle down.
Hmm, best keep the phone right near me, ready for that anticipated call tomorrow. Ugh. It's all good, and a gas too, right?
Good night.
The deal has been signed.
.
.
It took longer than I suspected and seemed shorter than I would have thought, somehow. The gentleman directing the event covered a number of areas, costs, balance sheets regarding closing, and such. Along with that I asked several questions. There is no water rights with this land. How the crops are watered, I do not know. There was one very large surprise, and not a happy one.
Fifteen minutes before I had chosen to leave, so as to arrive early, while reviewing my phone messages, I heard that I needed to have some money, in the form of a cashier's check, for the closing. I called my broker about this. I needed a little over a thousand dollars, quickly. To say I was a little terse would be about right, or that is how I may have sounded. That was the tip of the iceberg. I certainly did not say what I wanted to say. It turns out this money is the interest on the loan until payments begin in August. And, as I was driving to my bank to pick up the check, I calmed and just told myself that this is the last thing and almost has to be the last negative surprise I will need to handle. I think, pray, hope that I am correct. I honestly do not think they can change anything else, no one involved, at this point.
The sellers, however, have not signed. The owner, the Mr., was not in town. He, or the Mr. and Mrs., will be signing tomorrow. I suppose they could refuse to sell. I doubt that, at this point, but who knows on this deal. When the keys are safely in my hand I will be less dubious. When I arrive at the property, unlock the door, go in and put my first load down, I will know.
I tried to give my hosts a bit but they thought that was an awfully lot, so asked for less. I know my frequent hot showers and computer are no light demands. Their austerity seems to work in all manner of how they live. Live and learn, and to some degree, so I shall. As a thank you to my broker and the brokerage, I plan on something. I am not sure what... a cake, a minor catered snack for the office, something. And a number of thank you cards, once I am firmly in place. You know, a thank you card some time after the event means more than almost any reasonable monetary gift. People do not necessarily want to do work of the nature they are doing in helping, they are doing it for you... or me in this case. I know, no one had to help, some had financial inducements, others had this or that, but... they did help.
Oh, I do not think the problem with the loan was what I thought it was. After speaking to my broker, I heard the shavings of some suggestions. And, should I ever contemplate moving up or out a bit I will certainly be speaking to him or his office first. I think they could lead me to a much cleaner and quicker sale. Live and learn, again.
So be it. I will rest easier this night. I am fairly sure of tomorrow. After that the world of home ownership, my finances, and my imagination (plus some practical physics, biology, engineering, and such) are the limits to what I can do. I will be taking pictures of the place for my mother. Depending on how my computer handles this now, or not, I may have to purchase a disposable camera and simply work that way. Once done, whichever way works, I will try to put a few pictures up. The good and the bad, what needs to be done and what has been (and beautifully) done. The garden as I create or develop it will be included. Well, what appears here will be dependent upon on how any particular picture succeeds.
Good day:)
.
It took longer than I suspected and seemed shorter than I would have thought, somehow. The gentleman directing the event covered a number of areas, costs, balance sheets regarding closing, and such. Along with that I asked several questions. There is no water rights with this land. How the crops are watered, I do not know. There was one very large surprise, and not a happy one.
Fifteen minutes before I had chosen to leave, so as to arrive early, while reviewing my phone messages, I heard that I needed to have some money, in the form of a cashier's check, for the closing. I called my broker about this. I needed a little over a thousand dollars, quickly. To say I was a little terse would be about right, or that is how I may have sounded. That was the tip of the iceberg. I certainly did not say what I wanted to say. It turns out this money is the interest on the loan until payments begin in August. And, as I was driving to my bank to pick up the check, I calmed and just told myself that this is the last thing and almost has to be the last negative surprise I will need to handle. I think, pray, hope that I am correct. I honestly do not think they can change anything else, no one involved, at this point.
The sellers, however, have not signed. The owner, the Mr., was not in town. He, or the Mr. and Mrs., will be signing tomorrow. I suppose they could refuse to sell. I doubt that, at this point, but who knows on this deal. When the keys are safely in my hand I will be less dubious. When I arrive at the property, unlock the door, go in and put my first load down, I will know.
I tried to give my hosts a bit but they thought that was an awfully lot, so asked for less. I know my frequent hot showers and computer are no light demands. Their austerity seems to work in all manner of how they live. Live and learn, and to some degree, so I shall. As a thank you to my broker and the brokerage, I plan on something. I am not sure what... a cake, a minor catered snack for the office, something. And a number of thank you cards, once I am firmly in place. You know, a thank you card some time after the event means more than almost any reasonable monetary gift. People do not necessarily want to do work of the nature they are doing in helping, they are doing it for you... or me in this case. I know, no one had to help, some had financial inducements, others had this or that, but... they did help.
Oh, I do not think the problem with the loan was what I thought it was. After speaking to my broker, I heard the shavings of some suggestions. And, should I ever contemplate moving up or out a bit I will certainly be speaking to him or his office first. I think they could lead me to a much cleaner and quicker sale. Live and learn, again.
So be it. I will rest easier this night. I am fairly sure of tomorrow. After that the world of home ownership, my finances, and my imagination (plus some practical physics, biology, engineering, and such) are the limits to what I can do. I will be taking pictures of the place for my mother. Depending on how my computer handles this now, or not, I may have to purchase a disposable camera and simply work that way. Once done, whichever way works, I will try to put a few pictures up. The good and the bad, what needs to be done and what has been (and beautifully) done. The garden as I create or develop it will be included. Well, what appears here will be dependent upon on how any particular picture succeeds.
Good day:)
The signing.
.
.
At 3:00 pm, or so I have been told. I was to receive an email with instructions Friday. I have not received that. I will call and obtain instructions one way or the other. I like having something to read and take down some notes myself, in my good time. It is another rainy day, or looks to be so. I have not yet ventured outdoors. Hmm, no, the porch was quite wet so it is or has been raining, and heavily. Rain or shine, snow or sleet, I will be at that signing barring death or some sort of major accident.
Fear creeps in as the time approaches. I have too large of a list of things I want to do with the house and grounds. I do have a rough priority, and yet I understand that some things may prioritize self selectively as I come upon them. I may have little choice in what is to be done and when, at times. First things, of course, relate to powering up and moving in. Beyond prioritizing is the notion that I have no idea how long some, many, of the things I have on the list will take to complete. This is a whole new world I am entering. It is a new, very busy, demanding, stage in my life. I honestly do not know that I am up to it.
As I said, one of the good things about the delay in the purchase was that I have been able to scrape together a few more nickles for the process. Squeezing nickles, even pennies, will by needs be a project all it's own. Luxury is not key here, though neither is abject privation. A balance will need to be found and a budget will have to be implemented. This particular piece of the puzzle will actually add a boost to my intentions to become much more self reliant in regard to food and possibly other personal needs.
I viewed several articles regarding raising rabbits. That does seem like something I can do. There is a lot of free information available, I am honestly surprised more people do not do that. For homeowners, gardening would seem to be a common sense thing as well, which would lead to canning and freezing the crops for extra penny pinching. The upfront costs and the learning curve are barriers, but seen in good light, they are quite minor obstacles. I suppose though, if both are working 40 plus hours a week, in the daylight hours, pushing that little bit more and over even small obstacles, it must be just too much. My personal problem has been access to land and my own foibles which may be problematic still. I will not know if I can do what is needed until I am well under way. Rabbits are probably my best bet, as they are not quite as dependent or troublesome as larger livestock. A small garden will give me a taste of what is needed in the way of work without a large loss should I fail. That fear is there. Failure is a strong possibility, initially, whether I do what is required or not. Can I overcome even that to final success, whatever final success really means? It is, certainly, time to find out.
A phone call, a few hours of kicking about on a path to being more awake for the signing, the signing itself, and hopefully being informed about when I will take possession of the property, and then... waiting for that time. Ugh, hurry and wait is just as much a civilian thing as it was a military thing, if not quite as often or as harsh if my memory serves.
Have a great day.
.
At 3:00 pm, or so I have been told. I was to receive an email with instructions Friday. I have not received that. I will call and obtain instructions one way or the other. I like having something to read and take down some notes myself, in my good time. It is another rainy day, or looks to be so. I have not yet ventured outdoors. Hmm, no, the porch was quite wet so it is or has been raining, and heavily. Rain or shine, snow or sleet, I will be at that signing barring death or some sort of major accident.
Fear creeps in as the time approaches. I have too large of a list of things I want to do with the house and grounds. I do have a rough priority, and yet I understand that some things may prioritize self selectively as I come upon them. I may have little choice in what is to be done and when, at times. First things, of course, relate to powering up and moving in. Beyond prioritizing is the notion that I have no idea how long some, many, of the things I have on the list will take to complete. This is a whole new world I am entering. It is a new, very busy, demanding, stage in my life. I honestly do not know that I am up to it.
As I said, one of the good things about the delay in the purchase was that I have been able to scrape together a few more nickles for the process. Squeezing nickles, even pennies, will by needs be a project all it's own. Luxury is not key here, though neither is abject privation. A balance will need to be found and a budget will have to be implemented. This particular piece of the puzzle will actually add a boost to my intentions to become much more self reliant in regard to food and possibly other personal needs.
I viewed several articles regarding raising rabbits. That does seem like something I can do. There is a lot of free information available, I am honestly surprised more people do not do that. For homeowners, gardening would seem to be a common sense thing as well, which would lead to canning and freezing the crops for extra penny pinching. The upfront costs and the learning curve are barriers, but seen in good light, they are quite minor obstacles. I suppose though, if both are working 40 plus hours a week, in the daylight hours, pushing that little bit more and over even small obstacles, it must be just too much. My personal problem has been access to land and my own foibles which may be problematic still. I will not know if I can do what is needed until I am well under way. Rabbits are probably my best bet, as they are not quite as dependent or troublesome as larger livestock. A small garden will give me a taste of what is needed in the way of work without a large loss should I fail. That fear is there. Failure is a strong possibility, initially, whether I do what is required or not. Can I overcome even that to final success, whatever final success really means? It is, certainly, time to find out.
A phone call, a few hours of kicking about on a path to being more awake for the signing, the signing itself, and hopefully being informed about when I will take possession of the property, and then... waiting for that time. Ugh, hurry and wait is just as much a civilian thing as it was a military thing, if not quite as often or as harsh if my memory serves.
Have a great day.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Good dreams as recompense?
.
.
Wow, what a wonderful night of dreams. Beautiful women everywhere. Hugs, kisses, promises of more... as close as earth gets to heaven I should think. I woke fresh in more ways then one, but in the best of ways. I do not know if it is connected to a recent real life phenomenon but it could be. Since I found that the house was going through for certain, women have been becoming super attractive to me. I ought to be careful, in my current weakened state. I think though, for whatever reason, I have been holding off on a serious wife search until I have a nest within which to thrive with her. Oh, but those dreams will drive me.
Yesterday, after waking and beginning to function from the terrible dreams, my hosts invited me for a bicycle ride. I initially suspected I had not ridden a bike for 20 years, though upon a more exacting consideration, I realized it had been 29 or 30 years since I had ridden such a contraption. Still, I did well enough. I did not ride nearly as far as they did, however I suspect I pedaled a good half of a mile. I needed a rest half way through and suggested they go on as they were riding for pleasure and with some purposeful travel intentions as well. After I returned, sore in odd spots, with a minor scrape on one leg from a pedal mishap, and tired as well, I decided social was good.
At that point I took a minor rest, then called my friend and suggested we do something. We ended up driving up the canyon and shooting for a bit. Cans were what was available for targets. It was a good day to be out, though shooting was hampered a bit due to the holiday weekend hordes. Still, we got enough downrange to say we shot some, enjoyed the fresh and still slightly brisk mountain air, and had a pleasant drive.
After this, my hosts entertained at what is becoming a ritual Sunday dinner. To add to the event, a chocolate cake with sour cream frosting decorated to celebrate the upcoming closing event was the desert! Conversations are usually interesting. People do get teased about past and present situations. And the food is always good. From a rough start to a very good day, much better this way than the reverse.
I am quite tired today. No doubt I pushed things a bit yesterday. Still, in the days to come, I will probably have to push much harder. Getting things moved in, on my own. Setting up the bed, arranging furniture, arranging utilities and hookups, payments and whatever else... Life will see to it that there is little rest for this wicked one for some time to come. And gardening... I do want to put tomatoes, cucumbers, and something else in, even if only a small patch is worked or by needs created, but before time slips too far along into summer heat. Ugh... It is time to wake up and get to work.
Have a great day.
.
Wow, what a wonderful night of dreams. Beautiful women everywhere. Hugs, kisses, promises of more... as close as earth gets to heaven I should think. I woke fresh in more ways then one, but in the best of ways. I do not know if it is connected to a recent real life phenomenon but it could be. Since I found that the house was going through for certain, women have been becoming super attractive to me. I ought to be careful, in my current weakened state. I think though, for whatever reason, I have been holding off on a serious wife search until I have a nest within which to thrive with her. Oh, but those dreams will drive me.
Yesterday, after waking and beginning to function from the terrible dreams, my hosts invited me for a bicycle ride. I initially suspected I had not ridden a bike for 20 years, though upon a more exacting consideration, I realized it had been 29 or 30 years since I had ridden such a contraption. Still, I did well enough. I did not ride nearly as far as they did, however I suspect I pedaled a good half of a mile. I needed a rest half way through and suggested they go on as they were riding for pleasure and with some purposeful travel intentions as well. After I returned, sore in odd spots, with a minor scrape on one leg from a pedal mishap, and tired as well, I decided social was good.
At that point I took a minor rest, then called my friend and suggested we do something. We ended up driving up the canyon and shooting for a bit. Cans were what was available for targets. It was a good day to be out, though shooting was hampered a bit due to the holiday weekend hordes. Still, we got enough downrange to say we shot some, enjoyed the fresh and still slightly brisk mountain air, and had a pleasant drive.
After this, my hosts entertained at what is becoming a ritual Sunday dinner. To add to the event, a chocolate cake with sour cream frosting decorated to celebrate the upcoming closing event was the desert! Conversations are usually interesting. People do get teased about past and present situations. And the food is always good. From a rough start to a very good day, much better this way than the reverse.
I am quite tired today. No doubt I pushed things a bit yesterday. Still, in the days to come, I will probably have to push much harder. Getting things moved in, on my own. Setting up the bed, arranging furniture, arranging utilities and hookups, payments and whatever else... Life will see to it that there is little rest for this wicked one for some time to come. And gardening... I do want to put tomatoes, cucumbers, and something else in, even if only a small patch is worked or by needs created, but before time slips too far along into summer heat. Ugh... It is time to wake up and get to work.
Have a great day.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Dreaming.
.
.
Sometimes my dreams are fantastic things. Any more, if I remember them, they were interesting, pleasant, or even pleasantly frightening in the vein of an enjoyed scary movie. But some, the ones I no longer remember, are no joy. I know I had them, if I am now spared the full memory of the events in them. These I have been dreaming of late. I usually do not realize I dreamed these dreams until having been awake for a bit, or at least until I am more fully awake which on some days is quicker. The last few days have been rough and today is the worst of the lot.
I know, pretty much, what the dreams were about. I dreamed, again, of war. It is a retched business, war. The views, scents, textures... the emotions... Terrible. I could describe them but you would really have had to 'be there' in order to understand. The things I see there would cause many to vomit. It simply is not a pleasant world. I have no idea, to this day, what to do with the feelings that remain, like a poison, disturbing my mind and body until I can shake the thing.
I suppose I will try to find my way out of the house, into the sun, and take a book of some sort. I am not prepared for Church, on a number of levels, today. People are both the victims and perpetrators of the horrors I witness, sharing time with them is difficult at this point. I know what lives under that gentle or terse smile, that firm handshake or pat on the back. I know the frailties of the flesh and bone I meet, I know it has stringent limitations. In spite of knowing that flesh is but an aspect of our learning here, I believe it to be a temple as well. A bloody mental and physical orange julius for me to consume in tears, terror, horror, and nausea. Ah, so be it. These have become rare, not weekly or even daily for weeks on end. They are not even three times a month anymore, or even monthly anymore. I suppose that is good. As well, I no longer need to view the material, running the memory of it, like a tongue, over the shattered teeth of my psyche.
So, a shower, a bit to eat which oddly tends to settle the stomach, and a quiet drive perhaps. Probably some tears. I hate those and cannot see how tears help, but I cannot always stop them.
.
Sometimes my dreams are fantastic things. Any more, if I remember them, they were interesting, pleasant, or even pleasantly frightening in the vein of an enjoyed scary movie. But some, the ones I no longer remember, are no joy. I know I had them, if I am now spared the full memory of the events in them. These I have been dreaming of late. I usually do not realize I dreamed these dreams until having been awake for a bit, or at least until I am more fully awake which on some days is quicker. The last few days have been rough and today is the worst of the lot.
I know, pretty much, what the dreams were about. I dreamed, again, of war. It is a retched business, war. The views, scents, textures... the emotions... Terrible. I could describe them but you would really have had to 'be there' in order to understand. The things I see there would cause many to vomit. It simply is not a pleasant world. I have no idea, to this day, what to do with the feelings that remain, like a poison, disturbing my mind and body until I can shake the thing.
I suppose I will try to find my way out of the house, into the sun, and take a book of some sort. I am not prepared for Church, on a number of levels, today. People are both the victims and perpetrators of the horrors I witness, sharing time with them is difficult at this point. I know what lives under that gentle or terse smile, that firm handshake or pat on the back. I know the frailties of the flesh and bone I meet, I know it has stringent limitations. In spite of knowing that flesh is but an aspect of our learning here, I believe it to be a temple as well. A bloody mental and physical orange julius for me to consume in tears, terror, horror, and nausea. Ah, so be it. These have become rare, not weekly or even daily for weeks on end. They are not even three times a month anymore, or even monthly anymore. I suppose that is good. As well, I no longer need to view the material, running the memory of it, like a tongue, over the shattered teeth of my psyche.
So, a shower, a bit to eat which oddly tends to settle the stomach, and a quiet drive perhaps. Probably some tears. I hate those and cannot see how tears help, but I cannot always stop them.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Cold and lonely with out you...
.
.
"Don't know if I can make it through..." Or so one of my songs go. Bah, I can make it on my own, but it is cold. It has been a cold wet spring. I have enjoyed it, to an extent, but it is time for some heat. Around here though, when the sun turns on the heat, it does not know it's own strength and we cook. I will see how thick rock walls and good insulation in the rest of the place works as per cooling. I am guessing a short stop to a better system will be a window air conditioner in the bedroom, maybe another room as required. But there is a nice swimming hole not more than 3 miles away too. For now though, cold... and maybe a bit lonely.
I need to figure out the last of the packing. I have, for the most part, only clothes left. Well, clothes and toiletries. I am out of room in the storage compartment, but I do have room in the auto. I did get most of what I had wanted to complete finished the other day. I actually did get two loads into storage, and another minor load into the vehicle. The computer and such will simply have to go when I do, along with most of the clothes, guns, ammo, reloading supplies, and... me. I think that is all I have left.
I will be giving my hosts a decent spot of cash for utilities and convenience. They have not required rent, so that will be easy. The way they shop for food and clothes makes gift certificates sort of difficult, so simple cash will work. A bit for coverage and a bit extra in gratitude. How much, I cannot be sure, though $150 I am thinking. They would not accept more and are probably expecting less, basing my guess on how they live and what I have see from their expectations, I can see where this would be good.
Hungry! Lunch! Something warm I should think. A quick prep, then hot, locally made, soup and bread is what I have a hankering to eat. I want meat, but cannot get enough of that at the moment, so will go light until I can buy and cook my own meats. No one, save Maddox, does steak or beef generally the way I like it. And really thin cuts, often, at the places here in town. Uhrm, though I have not tried the high end places, to be honest. One clue, to the cooks out there, do not salt the thing to death. Too much salt does not make up for poorer cuts of beef. Anywhile, have a good day.
.
"Don't know if I can make it through..." Or so one of my songs go. Bah, I can make it on my own, but it is cold. It has been a cold wet spring. I have enjoyed it, to an extent, but it is time for some heat. Around here though, when the sun turns on the heat, it does not know it's own strength and we cook. I will see how thick rock walls and good insulation in the rest of the place works as per cooling. I am guessing a short stop to a better system will be a window air conditioner in the bedroom, maybe another room as required. But there is a nice swimming hole not more than 3 miles away too. For now though, cold... and maybe a bit lonely.
I need to figure out the last of the packing. I have, for the most part, only clothes left. Well, clothes and toiletries. I am out of room in the storage compartment, but I do have room in the auto. I did get most of what I had wanted to complete finished the other day. I actually did get two loads into storage, and another minor load into the vehicle. The computer and such will simply have to go when I do, along with most of the clothes, guns, ammo, reloading supplies, and... me. I think that is all I have left.
I will be giving my hosts a decent spot of cash for utilities and convenience. They have not required rent, so that will be easy. The way they shop for food and clothes makes gift certificates sort of difficult, so simple cash will work. A bit for coverage and a bit extra in gratitude. How much, I cannot be sure, though $150 I am thinking. They would not accept more and are probably expecting less, basing my guess on how they live and what I have see from their expectations, I can see where this would be good.
Hungry! Lunch! Something warm I should think. A quick prep, then hot, locally made, soup and bread is what I have a hankering to eat. I want meat, but cannot get enough of that at the moment, so will go light until I can buy and cook my own meats. No one, save Maddox, does steak or beef generally the way I like it. And really thin cuts, often, at the places here in town. Uhrm, though I have not tried the high end places, to be honest. One clue, to the cooks out there, do not salt the thing to death. Too much salt does not make up for poorer cuts of beef. Anywhile, have a good day.
Friday, May 28, 2010
A call was placed and answered.
.
.
Tuesday, so I am told. I am to be at a specific place at 3:00 pm Tuesday afternoon, here in town. I am not sure if it is a dress affair, though I shall endeavor to be moderately well presented. At that time in that place I will be signing the closing papers for the house, my new, first, and hopefully long time to come residents.
My initial closing date, after a month of working on the purchase, was April 23rd. We filed... I am not sure of the actual number, but... many extensions, five if them if I were to venture a guess and at least. So, about 2 and a half months of work and worry, signatures and pressure, doubts and fears. Inspections from hell, working like men, and with the faith of saints, the angles have come through. And, no, not literally save that it is hoped that this is God's will.
Hmm, 75 days to buy a house. But given the times, financial insecurity locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally... that it went through at all is a minor miracle. People, both at the brokerage and in my circle of family and friends are elated and quite surprised. I have told the people who are 'hosting' me, my lady friend, and my mother so far. I have yet to tell my gentleman friend here in town, but I will be visiting him shortly to see how he is doing and to take a movie to watch, and perhaps some food being shared around if he has none.
Unbelievable but true. I was certain this deal was dead. Sometimes being wrong is a good thing. Now to get everything even more prepared. The leaving is less fear inducing and more in elation, which does help in preparing. I will not begin work on the garden right away, though I may start talking to people about what to add and when. My hosts know the places to go for such information, seed, plants, and such as may be needed. As well, the Mr. knows a few things about home repair and such. I am in a good way in an ever better way to begin working out the things that are on my list.
Well, just wanted to get this out there. I have... things to do!!! Cheers and have a great day! Hmm... beer, you know, is sounding quite fine right about now... Hmm... Cheers!
.
Tuesday, so I am told. I am to be at a specific place at 3:00 pm Tuesday afternoon, here in town. I am not sure if it is a dress affair, though I shall endeavor to be moderately well presented. At that time in that place I will be signing the closing papers for the house, my new, first, and hopefully long time to come residents.
My initial closing date, after a month of working on the purchase, was April 23rd. We filed... I am not sure of the actual number, but... many extensions, five if them if I were to venture a guess and at least. So, about 2 and a half months of work and worry, signatures and pressure, doubts and fears. Inspections from hell, working like men, and with the faith of saints, the angles have come through. And, no, not literally save that it is hoped that this is God's will.
Hmm, 75 days to buy a house. But given the times, financial insecurity locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally... that it went through at all is a minor miracle. People, both at the brokerage and in my circle of family and friends are elated and quite surprised. I have told the people who are 'hosting' me, my lady friend, and my mother so far. I have yet to tell my gentleman friend here in town, but I will be visiting him shortly to see how he is doing and to take a movie to watch, and perhaps some food being shared around if he has none.
Unbelievable but true. I was certain this deal was dead. Sometimes being wrong is a good thing. Now to get everything even more prepared. The leaving is less fear inducing and more in elation, which does help in preparing. I will not begin work on the garden right away, though I may start talking to people about what to add and when. My hosts know the places to go for such information, seed, plants, and such as may be needed. As well, the Mr. knows a few things about home repair and such. I am in a good way in an ever better way to begin working out the things that are on my list.
Well, just wanted to get this out there. I have... things to do!!! Cheers and have a great day! Hmm... beer, you know, is sounding quite fine right about now... Hmm... Cheers!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
To the hospital again.
.
.
Not for myself. I was visiting my friend, and he seemed to want to go out, get out of the house. He was not hungry nor feeling well enough to go shooting, but a drive up the canyon seemed to be the thing. He seemed tired at first, but this condition worsened. About halfway through the canyon, he stopped being able to finish sentences or even make any kind of sense in what he was saying or trying to say. I turned around and headed to the hospital. I really feared he had had a stroke.
In spite of the expense, the medical care there is good. Really good I think. Medical people are an odd lot, I certainly do not fit in there at all. But they were kind, and some were very nice. The same man who sewed up my hand worked on my friend. Some of the nurses were the same. It was funny, if odd. Odd, I keep saying that, and meaning it, somehow. If you are sick, I would recommend this place, or wounded. But odd. Ha!
He was not interested in going into the hospital. I brought a wheelchair down but he would not get out. So, into the emergency room I went. I explained the situation. The young lady at the front desk arranged to have several people come out to help. A young lady and a middle aged woman arrived to help, and between the three of us we cajoled him out of the vehicle and into a wheelchair. Quite a task, actually.
Initially I was not sure what to do. I was not sure if they knew what to do. They suggested, since I knew him, his history to a degree, and was a familiar face, that I go on in and inform the medical staff and stay with him, after they changed him into their version of a nightshirt and had him in a treatment room bed. And so I did. I was able to fill them in on what I knew, and fairly accurately as it turns out. From what I told them, they ran a number of tests.
It turns out he was low on blood. He had had a severe nose bleed this morning, he had told me, and I guess he had indeed. They initially hooked him up to a larger bag of saline solution. His blood pressure was sitting at about 91/34. The saline drip helped a bit, but he still looked quite pale and could not always talk yet. And, he was still in the "No!" mode. They ended up putting three units (pints?) of blood in him, along with another 3 similar sized to the blood units of saline as well, on top of three quarters of that initial and large bag of saline. When all was said and done, his color had returned, he became hungry, and he could speak and walk as well as ever before. Absolutely amazing. Though I suspect he needs iron, now, more than ever. He is supposed to call his regular doctor for a visit in the next few days, as might be possible with his doctor's schedule of course.
So, that took me from late morning or early afternoon until just about 20:30. It never bothered me to be there. I did not get bored. I had no worries other than that he get what he needed. They did not keep him, so I took him home. Now, I was getting tired toward the end. I have been up since 3:30 or so this morning. Still, that will just make sleep the sweeter. And, I actually and literally saved someone's life today. More, it was someone I like, even love (in a manly way, mind you). He could not have taken care to go in and he would have died if not treated. His blood pressure alone would have done him in as it would have dropped further.
No, it was a good day. I will be checking on him a bit more closely for a bit, making sure he gets in to see his doctor (and recommend to him and to his doctor that he receive iron shots). Once he is on his feet I am going to take him out for a steak (or whatever he likes). I will get him up to speed on health and eating before too long.
Well, have a good night. I am very tired, this is probably rambling. But, so be it. And again, good night.
.
Not for myself. I was visiting my friend, and he seemed to want to go out, get out of the house. He was not hungry nor feeling well enough to go shooting, but a drive up the canyon seemed to be the thing. He seemed tired at first, but this condition worsened. About halfway through the canyon, he stopped being able to finish sentences or even make any kind of sense in what he was saying or trying to say. I turned around and headed to the hospital. I really feared he had had a stroke.
In spite of the expense, the medical care there is good. Really good I think. Medical people are an odd lot, I certainly do not fit in there at all. But they were kind, and some were very nice. The same man who sewed up my hand worked on my friend. Some of the nurses were the same. It was funny, if odd. Odd, I keep saying that, and meaning it, somehow. If you are sick, I would recommend this place, or wounded. But odd. Ha!
He was not interested in going into the hospital. I brought a wheelchair down but he would not get out. So, into the emergency room I went. I explained the situation. The young lady at the front desk arranged to have several people come out to help. A young lady and a middle aged woman arrived to help, and between the three of us we cajoled him out of the vehicle and into a wheelchair. Quite a task, actually.
Initially I was not sure what to do. I was not sure if they knew what to do. They suggested, since I knew him, his history to a degree, and was a familiar face, that I go on in and inform the medical staff and stay with him, after they changed him into their version of a nightshirt and had him in a treatment room bed. And so I did. I was able to fill them in on what I knew, and fairly accurately as it turns out. From what I told them, they ran a number of tests.
It turns out he was low on blood. He had had a severe nose bleed this morning, he had told me, and I guess he had indeed. They initially hooked him up to a larger bag of saline solution. His blood pressure was sitting at about 91/34. The saline drip helped a bit, but he still looked quite pale and could not always talk yet. And, he was still in the "No!" mode. They ended up putting three units (pints?) of blood in him, along with another 3 similar sized to the blood units of saline as well, on top of three quarters of that initial and large bag of saline. When all was said and done, his color had returned, he became hungry, and he could speak and walk as well as ever before. Absolutely amazing. Though I suspect he needs iron, now, more than ever. He is supposed to call his regular doctor for a visit in the next few days, as might be possible with his doctor's schedule of course.
So, that took me from late morning or early afternoon until just about 20:30. It never bothered me to be there. I did not get bored. I had no worries other than that he get what he needed. They did not keep him, so I took him home. Now, I was getting tired toward the end. I have been up since 3:30 or so this morning. Still, that will just make sleep the sweeter. And, I actually and literally saved someone's life today. More, it was someone I like, even love (in a manly way, mind you). He could not have taken care to go in and he would have died if not treated. His blood pressure alone would have done him in as it would have dropped further.
No, it was a good day. I will be checking on him a bit more closely for a bit, making sure he gets in to see his doctor (and recommend to him and to his doctor that he receive iron shots). Once he is on his feet I am going to take him out for a steak (or whatever he likes). I will get him up to speed on health and eating before too long.
Well, have a good night. I am very tired, this is probably rambling. But, so be it. And again, good night.
A work day.
.
.
Much to do regardless of the deal breaking or making it. Packing, my bane and bother for the moment. I need to be ready to move yesterday, as it were. I have bits and pieces strewn around a bit, though that circle has been closing. The Mrs. is seeing to that, and thankfully. I have no mind for it. I know she would prefer me to be a self starter, as would I. But hints of this nature do not go unheeded. She has been married many years now, and is patient. I think she is used to how men are and knows how to handle men in the fashion a wife does. She uses these skills effectively, and patiently, and is pretty sure I will take the hint, get the message, and go do. And, she is right. See, in spite of my notions of women that can be negative, this is a good one. It can, at times, seem too good. Ha!
So, today I will take those hints and do as much work as I am able to do. The sorting is the thing that slows or even stops me in my tracks. Moving this, carrying that, even laundry, are no difficulties. Figuring out where this piece goes, how to fit those in there, and finding everything, as I said, has, can, and will in the future, bind my actions, slowing or stopping my work. But today I will push and pull past my limits as I am able. A few loads of laundry to break the binding nature of the other work, and a few loads hauled to storage will also help.
One way or another, I will be as prepared as I am able by tomorrow, to move. It is my goal to be able to pack a suitcase (or more, put the few clothes not already there in it) and walk out by noon tomorrow. Then live like that until the first of the month. Even if I think the deal will definitely go through, I will get a motel/hotel for the time it takes, more on the weekly rate if there is some other hiccup. During that time I will begin finding my camping gear in case the deal becomes even more protracted. Though, to be honest, I do not think the sellers will wait much longer. I did not see the date given on this last agreement to buy, though I am thinking it is no more than a week and a half from my having signed it some several days ago.
So, to begin. Ugh... Help me... Hold me? Bah, scoot. I have work to do.
Have a great day.
.
Much to do regardless of the deal breaking or making it. Packing, my bane and bother for the moment. I need to be ready to move yesterday, as it were. I have bits and pieces strewn around a bit, though that circle has been closing. The Mrs. is seeing to that, and thankfully. I have no mind for it. I know she would prefer me to be a self starter, as would I. But hints of this nature do not go unheeded. She has been married many years now, and is patient. I think she is used to how men are and knows how to handle men in the fashion a wife does. She uses these skills effectively, and patiently, and is pretty sure I will take the hint, get the message, and go do. And, she is right. See, in spite of my notions of women that can be negative, this is a good one. It can, at times, seem too good. Ha!
So, today I will take those hints and do as much work as I am able to do. The sorting is the thing that slows or even stops me in my tracks. Moving this, carrying that, even laundry, are no difficulties. Figuring out where this piece goes, how to fit those in there, and finding everything, as I said, has, can, and will in the future, bind my actions, slowing or stopping my work. But today I will push and pull past my limits as I am able. A few loads of laundry to break the binding nature of the other work, and a few loads hauled to storage will also help.
One way or another, I will be as prepared as I am able by tomorrow, to move. It is my goal to be able to pack a suitcase (or more, put the few clothes not already there in it) and walk out by noon tomorrow. Then live like that until the first of the month. Even if I think the deal will definitely go through, I will get a motel/hotel for the time it takes, more on the weekly rate if there is some other hiccup. During that time I will begin finding my camping gear in case the deal becomes even more protracted. Though, to be honest, I do not think the sellers will wait much longer. I did not see the date given on this last agreement to buy, though I am thinking it is no more than a week and a half from my having signed it some several days ago.
So, to begin. Ugh... Help me... Hold me? Bah, scoot. I have work to do.
Have a great day.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Going through?
.
.
I received a call from my broker today. There was a failure to upload, yesterday. The inspection report did not reach the V.A. lender. Calls have been made but nothing has been heard about whether the report has again been sent or whether the lender has received. Neither the inspector nor the loan agents are easy to find, unless of course they need something. I have another paper to sign, merely an extension to the agreement to buy. Is this the third, fourth, maybe fifth extension? I can not keep it all clear.
He did mention that a large part of the problem was working with the right, or in this case wrong, people. I have a very good idea who the wrong person was, but feel I should not say a whole lot at this point. I will say that walking into a house that is 150 years old, give or take, and expecting it to be brand new, is probably not a really good plan. Being anal retentive is neither good for one's health nor good for business. It all has to come out in the end, pun may or may not have been intended. However, one can always hope for appropriate measures which seem to occur naturally, no? I have it, the scoop as one might say, that the deal will go through as quickly as this Friday or be delayed as long as next Wednesday, depending on the financiers' speed in deciding.
I must admit, at this point, I am torn. Do I really want this? Is this the right thing at the right time? I am 70 percent in favor, 30 percent against, roughly. In the dead of night, or in times of doubt, it seems much closer, or even the reverse of the percentages given. But I know that is merely fear leaking out and spilling shadow on my thinking. Owning a home, the upkeep, the work that does need doing, the gardening I am planning, and all the rest is a huge responsibility. Oh, and keeping up the yard, the house generally, and appearances generally.
Am I ready? Of course not. No one is truly prepared to take command when it is there time. Can I become a good landowner and minor lord of the small plot being purchased? That is where fear creeps in. I think I can do a good deal of the work, organically or natively. But the details, the more protracted and complex tasks (like rebuilding the kitchen from floor to cupboards), and maintaining the yard (like planting trees to ready for replacement when the older trees begin dying), and such... I simply do not know. A wife, I can tell you, would help... and hurt. I would be able to do less directly but more in the reality of the coupling. Ackh!
So be it, what will be will be. I will simply do what I can and live with the consequences. There are no direct and right answers to these types of questions. There is only probability and speculation, doubt and fear, some joys and work. And so it goes, as do I, into the nether of thought. Silly, perhaps, but true.
Have a great day!
Additional thoughts:
If this does actually go through, though, I will be quite thankful to that ol' stick in the mud. So, never mind my terse words. Well, not completely... And, of course, conditionally. Bah!
.
I received a call from my broker today. There was a failure to upload, yesterday. The inspection report did not reach the V.A. lender. Calls have been made but nothing has been heard about whether the report has again been sent or whether the lender has received. Neither the inspector nor the loan agents are easy to find, unless of course they need something. I have another paper to sign, merely an extension to the agreement to buy. Is this the third, fourth, maybe fifth extension? I can not keep it all clear.
He did mention that a large part of the problem was working with the right, or in this case wrong, people. I have a very good idea who the wrong person was, but feel I should not say a whole lot at this point. I will say that walking into a house that is 150 years old, give or take, and expecting it to be brand new, is probably not a really good plan. Being anal retentive is neither good for one's health nor good for business. It all has to come out in the end, pun may or may not have been intended. However, one can always hope for appropriate measures which seem to occur naturally, no? I have it, the scoop as one might say, that the deal will go through as quickly as this Friday or be delayed as long as next Wednesday, depending on the financiers' speed in deciding.
I must admit, at this point, I am torn. Do I really want this? Is this the right thing at the right time? I am 70 percent in favor, 30 percent against, roughly. In the dead of night, or in times of doubt, it seems much closer, or even the reverse of the percentages given. But I know that is merely fear leaking out and spilling shadow on my thinking. Owning a home, the upkeep, the work that does need doing, the gardening I am planning, and all the rest is a huge responsibility. Oh, and keeping up the yard, the house generally, and appearances generally.
Am I ready? Of course not. No one is truly prepared to take command when it is there time. Can I become a good landowner and minor lord of the small plot being purchased? That is where fear creeps in. I think I can do a good deal of the work, organically or natively. But the details, the more protracted and complex tasks (like rebuilding the kitchen from floor to cupboards), and maintaining the yard (like planting trees to ready for replacement when the older trees begin dying), and such... I simply do not know. A wife, I can tell you, would help... and hurt. I would be able to do less directly but more in the reality of the coupling. Ackh!
So be it, what will be will be. I will simply do what I can and live with the consequences. There are no direct and right answers to these types of questions. There is only probability and speculation, doubt and fear, some joys and work. And so it goes, as do I, into the nether of thought. Silly, perhaps, but true.
Have a great day!
Additional thoughts:
If this does actually go through, though, I will be quite thankful to that ol' stick in the mud. So, never mind my terse words. Well, not completely... And, of course, conditionally. Bah!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Medical update.
.
.
After half a dozen calls, some disconnects, ignorant operators, being passed around like a cheap bottle of wine by hobos, and a few people who had some kind of clue, I may have solved the $406 at time of billing a week ago as per the bill, but is now $550 dollar bill according to the woman I spoke to today, regarding the emergency visit. Uhrm, this was for 5, count them 5, stitches.
The V.A., who I called after having called the hospital's service line initially and been turned away from their automated system because neither my social security number nor the assigned account number were found in their system, sent me from office to office three times, dumping me at a message center which gave the number I was to call too quickly for me to catch. So, I called back and went through a myriad of phone centers to reach the office I had been told I was being connected with before the far too brief message was received and then being promptly disconnected. This time I spoke with a human. I asked her what the number was that I needed to call in my predicament. She gave it, then said I was already speaking with someone in that office. Okay.
So, I explain the situation and I am told that I have to report non-V.A. medical treatments immediately. But she listens as I explain that I did not know this and add the fact that the incident happened on weekend. She informs me that immediate means within 72 hours. Fine, now I know. I best keep that number on me, well, no, I will just leave it to the hospital to figure out, whatever. She looks through my file and can find no billing request from the hospital. She suggests I call them and have them submit the bill, which will be reviewed (at least paired, perhaps not accepted) by a nurse. Things did become more friendly when I said I was 100%, her files showed no previous billings like this, and her records showed something else... I heard a slight... change in her voice and her presentation to me after something specific but unmentioned, certainly after those things in total. She lightened and softened her voice and manner a good deal. Whatever.
So, I call the local hospital at which I was seen, this time I call the hospital itself and ask for billing. They do not have my social security number, they have the case filed as workman's compensation (in spite of it being a recreational firearm accident), they have nothing about a V.A. claim, they do not even have me listed as a veteran or with any connection to the V.A. in spite of my having filled out copious amounts of paperwork, them having taken photo copies of my V.A. disability card and driver's license, and having had to tell an initial interviewer secretary (guy, yuck), an initial medical screener, a second screaner, a man who did the work (a physician's assistant), an anesthesiologist, and the final reviewer of the work (a doctor I think), about my billing data and V.A. status. I guess incompetence is the new medical mode of the day.
In any case, it is between them to figure out at this point. I would be curious to know how it ends up, however I doubt I will ever be informed. My guess is the hospital is trying to stack the bill since it is the deep pockets of the government it is trying to pick, and the government in this case is already socialized medicine and so will decline the padding and probably some of the meat and give them an offer they cannot refuse... that of little or nothing. Call me a humble to entertain critter and leave off there. Let the monsters enjoy each others' throat and blood. I have popcorn and no skin in this game anymore otherwise. Oh, and the beauty, to me, to add, is that this medical network, as well, has socialized to some degree. Ha, state versus federal vampires. hahaha
.
After half a dozen calls, some disconnects, ignorant operators, being passed around like a cheap bottle of wine by hobos, and a few people who had some kind of clue, I may have solved the $406 at time of billing a week ago as per the bill, but is now $550 dollar bill according to the woman I spoke to today, regarding the emergency visit. Uhrm, this was for 5, count them 5, stitches.
The V.A., who I called after having called the hospital's service line initially and been turned away from their automated system because neither my social security number nor the assigned account number were found in their system, sent me from office to office three times, dumping me at a message center which gave the number I was to call too quickly for me to catch. So, I called back and went through a myriad of phone centers to reach the office I had been told I was being connected with before the far too brief message was received and then being promptly disconnected. This time I spoke with a human. I asked her what the number was that I needed to call in my predicament. She gave it, then said I was already speaking with someone in that office. Okay.
So, I explain the situation and I am told that I have to report non-V.A. medical treatments immediately. But she listens as I explain that I did not know this and add the fact that the incident happened on weekend. She informs me that immediate means within 72 hours. Fine, now I know. I best keep that number on me, well, no, I will just leave it to the hospital to figure out, whatever. She looks through my file and can find no billing request from the hospital. She suggests I call them and have them submit the bill, which will be reviewed (at least paired, perhaps not accepted) by a nurse. Things did become more friendly when I said I was 100%, her files showed no previous billings like this, and her records showed something else... I heard a slight... change in her voice and her presentation to me after something specific but unmentioned, certainly after those things in total. She lightened and softened her voice and manner a good deal. Whatever.
So, I call the local hospital at which I was seen, this time I call the hospital itself and ask for billing. They do not have my social security number, they have the case filed as workman's compensation (in spite of it being a recreational firearm accident), they have nothing about a V.A. claim, they do not even have me listed as a veteran or with any connection to the V.A. in spite of my having filled out copious amounts of paperwork, them having taken photo copies of my V.A. disability card and driver's license, and having had to tell an initial interviewer secretary (guy, yuck), an initial medical screener, a second screaner, a man who did the work (a physician's assistant), an anesthesiologist, and the final reviewer of the work (a doctor I think), about my billing data and V.A. status. I guess incompetence is the new medical mode of the day.
In any case, it is between them to figure out at this point. I would be curious to know how it ends up, however I doubt I will ever be informed. My guess is the hospital is trying to stack the bill since it is the deep pockets of the government it is trying to pick, and the government in this case is already socialized medicine and so will decline the padding and probably some of the meat and give them an offer they cannot refuse... that of little or nothing. Call me a humble to entertain critter and leave off there. Let the monsters enjoy each others' throat and blood. I have popcorn and no skin in this game anymore otherwise. Oh, and the beauty, to me, to add, is that this medical network, as well, has socialized to some degree. Ha, state versus federal vampires. hahaha
No news, still.
.
.
I called my broker yesterday afternoon. Nothing to report. I am never quite sure about what he says regarding inspections though. He said that the place had been inspected, and that to his knowledge, the inspection was successful. This having been a familiar and incorrect notice before, I initially took the thing with a grain of salt. Then he suggested that some sort of work remained, or had been done, though this too was not clear. When I started asking what, when, how, money, why... He said his brokerage and the seller's broker agreed to pay to have it done out of their pockets. Well, interesting, but... So I am not sure if this is done, if it is whether it has been inspected. If it is not completed, I know it will have to be inspected, so have they arranged for an inspection as soon after the work is done as possible or are they waiting for the work to be completed to call for an inspection?
Today is the day I am supposed to begin searching for an apartment! I have no choice but to go forward with that. I have two options here. First, I can simply find the least expensive place I can and crawl away to horde money. Though to be honest, I do not think it will matter. My guess is that if the finance companies and banks are in such trouble, and doubting the Federal government through the V.A. loan process, next year will not be good either. Once houses have dropped to a certain level, and they remain unsold, they are simply removed from the market through one financial mechanism or another in order to "create" value once again. As well, though many see deflationary flags, to my mind hyper-inflation is the beast to watch (though in truth, watching either one and ignoring the other would be a disaster in spite of the fact that once policies are in play for one, switching them over to protect the other would be so slow and clumsy as to more likely do more damage, fiscally, than doing nothing would be... although here the terms of the disaster may be mitigated over time if the initial damage might be greater in the short to mid-term of the thing). Well, that is my thinking anyway. My other apartment option is to hold out for a rent by the month place, usually dives, plan on taking this over again in the fall, and work it that way. Or, to go "camping" for the summer.
So, what I am saying is, I am not sure houses, loan packages, or any such thing will necessarily be available even by next year (let alone favorable ones, if the uncertainty that exists today passes for that). Further, after having done this much work with the V.A. mortgage center, I am not sure I ever want to work with them again. I really think they have been working to kill what they cannot legally deny since the whole operation began. I get this mental picture of drunken U.S.S.R. bureaucrats, who drink because they have a miserable job, doing harm which is technically illegal in spite of having been hired to do good, developing reason after reason, demand after demand, knowing in the end people have only so much time to pause their lives in pursuit of what was promised and which they swore to do. Beyond, they know that should the politburo change the course it is on, they could be tried for their unofficial ordered actions. What they are currently doing could land them in jail, or worse, bureaucracies being highly populist as they are. High crimes, high times... for another round of Vodka! The grind goes on.
I have been packing bits at a time, doing laundry, and feeling like a cat too far out on too thin a branch, far to high off the ground for any kind of safe landing. No worries, unlike a cat, I do not panic. Worse comes to worse, I will merely become homeless. And, to some degree, I am considering this anyway. I am not sure I will have time to close this deal before my allotted time here is done. So, if I cannot find a rent by month place in a reasonable fee bracket, I am strongly considering being homeless. Heck, if I like it, I may just keep it. I do have a tent and some minor gear. My auto can work as a temporary safe place for gear, if a weak one. Not a fun life, but preferable to year (and sometimes 2 year) contracts, missing out on a house, or some of the other options. So goes it.
Well, that is all for today. Or, now at least. I will tinker, hope the day warms enough that I may begin a bit of work, and begin looking for a place while hoping for a call. No, no, there is one more bit of information. It seems the V.A. is not paying, or has not paid for, my emergency room visit. I received a bill from the hospital yesterday. I will call them sometime today and let them know that this is between them and the V.A. If they razz me about it again, I will raise a stink or ignore them, at my leisure. If they try and damage my credit, I will sue.
Have a good one.
.
I called my broker yesterday afternoon. Nothing to report. I am never quite sure about what he says regarding inspections though. He said that the place had been inspected, and that to his knowledge, the inspection was successful. This having been a familiar and incorrect notice before, I initially took the thing with a grain of salt. Then he suggested that some sort of work remained, or had been done, though this too was not clear. When I started asking what, when, how, money, why... He said his brokerage and the seller's broker agreed to pay to have it done out of their pockets. Well, interesting, but... So I am not sure if this is done, if it is whether it has been inspected. If it is not completed, I know it will have to be inspected, so have they arranged for an inspection as soon after the work is done as possible or are they waiting for the work to be completed to call for an inspection?
Today is the day I am supposed to begin searching for an apartment! I have no choice but to go forward with that. I have two options here. First, I can simply find the least expensive place I can and crawl away to horde money. Though to be honest, I do not think it will matter. My guess is that if the finance companies and banks are in such trouble, and doubting the Federal government through the V.A. loan process, next year will not be good either. Once houses have dropped to a certain level, and they remain unsold, they are simply removed from the market through one financial mechanism or another in order to "create" value once again. As well, though many see deflationary flags, to my mind hyper-inflation is the beast to watch (though in truth, watching either one and ignoring the other would be a disaster in spite of the fact that once policies are in play for one, switching them over to protect the other would be so slow and clumsy as to more likely do more damage, fiscally, than doing nothing would be... although here the terms of the disaster may be mitigated over time if the initial damage might be greater in the short to mid-term of the thing). Well, that is my thinking anyway. My other apartment option is to hold out for a rent by the month place, usually dives, plan on taking this over again in the fall, and work it that way. Or, to go "camping" for the summer.
So, what I am saying is, I am not sure houses, loan packages, or any such thing will necessarily be available even by next year (let alone favorable ones, if the uncertainty that exists today passes for that). Further, after having done this much work with the V.A. mortgage center, I am not sure I ever want to work with them again. I really think they have been working to kill what they cannot legally deny since the whole operation began. I get this mental picture of drunken U.S.S.R. bureaucrats, who drink because they have a miserable job, doing harm which is technically illegal in spite of having been hired to do good, developing reason after reason, demand after demand, knowing in the end people have only so much time to pause their lives in pursuit of what was promised and which they swore to do. Beyond, they know that should the politburo change the course it is on, they could be tried for their unofficial ordered actions. What they are currently doing could land them in jail, or worse, bureaucracies being highly populist as they are. High crimes, high times... for another round of Vodka! The grind goes on.
I have been packing bits at a time, doing laundry, and feeling like a cat too far out on too thin a branch, far to high off the ground for any kind of safe landing. No worries, unlike a cat, I do not panic. Worse comes to worse, I will merely become homeless. And, to some degree, I am considering this anyway. I am not sure I will have time to close this deal before my allotted time here is done. So, if I cannot find a rent by month place in a reasonable fee bracket, I am strongly considering being homeless. Heck, if I like it, I may just keep it. I do have a tent and some minor gear. My auto can work as a temporary safe place for gear, if a weak one. Not a fun life, but preferable to year (and sometimes 2 year) contracts, missing out on a house, or some of the other options. So goes it.
Well, that is all for today. Or, now at least. I will tinker, hope the day warms enough that I may begin a bit of work, and begin looking for a place while hoping for a call. No, no, there is one more bit of information. It seems the V.A. is not paying, or has not paid for, my emergency room visit. I received a bill from the hospital yesterday. I will call them sometime today and let them know that this is between them and the V.A. If they razz me about it again, I will raise a stink or ignore them, at my leisure. If they try and damage my credit, I will sue.
Have a good one.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Hello, hello!
.
.
A fine Sunday morning to you all. I hope you find some time to visit your house of worship, or should you not be of such an inclination through a variety of reasons, that you find time to enjoy this day in a pleasing, restful, kind way. This day was set aside by God, not just or even mostly for Him, but for us. Most of His rules and regulations, seen rightly, are much the same. In any case, I do hope you find some rest and a bit of peace this day.
As I said, next Sunday is my goal to be to church. Shoes need polished, a minor wardrobe needs set aside and prepared, and nerves need to be adjusted. And, of course but not of the lesser of important things, confession is to be performed. I do not fear as I used to, though make you no mistake, I do fear. The closer to the time, the more the fear. I do not fear God's rejection, only my complete understanding of my wayward manners. In there my sins become exposed to the light of day, of the light of Christ, and it is an ugly thing. But the release, the cleansing as it might or perhaps is called, is of such beauty. It is always difficult to see through that initial dark tunnel to the light though. It is a heavy chore. It just so happens to have such a beautiful ending that I believe in it.
My host and hostess are, indeed, kind people. We disagree on much, agree from time to time, and simply do not understand each other well enough to agree or disagree on some things. To my mind, however, we enjoy a quite friendly relationship. I certainly grant an honest respect for who they are, what they believe and understand, and that they have come to abide a world in the ways they feel necessary. Though they have some things tended, they have done so by diligence and care. They have tended their finances and lives so as to attend some greater hopes, and have done so quite well. And yet I find them, perhaps especially in their happy situation, to be merely (no slight here intended in even the most minor way) salt of the earth people. I hope that I continue to be a party to their dinner invitations for so long as they have them, and perhaps have them to my place or even out to dinner from time to time should the house I am hoping for not come through.
I have finished the novel I was reading. The ending, it is said, was a poor ending. To my mind, however, it was a good ending. I must admit I had, at times, hoped him to be arrested. Fie, but my anger, at times quite justified, lead me to the devil's hope. In any case, though I disagree thoroughly with almost every aspect of that book, I must admit that the writing is of exquisite form. Though it is not simple reading, it does not leave one confused in the least. I am torn as to whether read a few more of the author's earlier works or whether to read "The Idiot", by another Russian dissident type. Or, to be honest, to turn these anarchist manuals over to some library where some librarians can drool over them and find works more suitable to my mind and station. Bother but for the complications and considerations one must face in life!
Well, back to tinkering. I am rebuilding my browser bookmarks. I had quite a collection of places, faces, names and such. But the wiping of the memory has left me unsure what I had, where to go, what to get. Much of what I had was developed while need was more current. Others are business connections for paying bills and such. Others were purely personal. Thankfully, merely finding my blog has reunited me with most of my blog sites.
Bit by bit, as always, the tasks I pursue will find their place and time and be done or will drift away on a sea of empty promises. There is, after all, only so much a man can do, no matter how great or small he is. Sometimes I wonder that the littler man can do more as he is not defined or confined by the realities of "great men". Which, uhrm, leaves me wide open! *smiles*
Peace be with you.
.
A fine Sunday morning to you all. I hope you find some time to visit your house of worship, or should you not be of such an inclination through a variety of reasons, that you find time to enjoy this day in a pleasing, restful, kind way. This day was set aside by God, not just or even mostly for Him, but for us. Most of His rules and regulations, seen rightly, are much the same. In any case, I do hope you find some rest and a bit of peace this day.
As I said, next Sunday is my goal to be to church. Shoes need polished, a minor wardrobe needs set aside and prepared, and nerves need to be adjusted. And, of course but not of the lesser of important things, confession is to be performed. I do not fear as I used to, though make you no mistake, I do fear. The closer to the time, the more the fear. I do not fear God's rejection, only my complete understanding of my wayward manners. In there my sins become exposed to the light of day, of the light of Christ, and it is an ugly thing. But the release, the cleansing as it might or perhaps is called, is of such beauty. It is always difficult to see through that initial dark tunnel to the light though. It is a heavy chore. It just so happens to have such a beautiful ending that I believe in it.
My host and hostess are, indeed, kind people. We disagree on much, agree from time to time, and simply do not understand each other well enough to agree or disagree on some things. To my mind, however, we enjoy a quite friendly relationship. I certainly grant an honest respect for who they are, what they believe and understand, and that they have come to abide a world in the ways they feel necessary. Though they have some things tended, they have done so by diligence and care. They have tended their finances and lives so as to attend some greater hopes, and have done so quite well. And yet I find them, perhaps especially in their happy situation, to be merely (no slight here intended in even the most minor way) salt of the earth people. I hope that I continue to be a party to their dinner invitations for so long as they have them, and perhaps have them to my place or even out to dinner from time to time should the house I am hoping for not come through.
I have finished the novel I was reading. The ending, it is said, was a poor ending. To my mind, however, it was a good ending. I must admit I had, at times, hoped him to be arrested. Fie, but my anger, at times quite justified, lead me to the devil's hope. In any case, though I disagree thoroughly with almost every aspect of that book, I must admit that the writing is of exquisite form. Though it is not simple reading, it does not leave one confused in the least. I am torn as to whether read a few more of the author's earlier works or whether to read "The Idiot", by another Russian dissident type. Or, to be honest, to turn these anarchist manuals over to some library where some librarians can drool over them and find works more suitable to my mind and station. Bother but for the complications and considerations one must face in life!
Well, back to tinkering. I am rebuilding my browser bookmarks. I had quite a collection of places, faces, names and such. But the wiping of the memory has left me unsure what I had, where to go, what to get. Much of what I had was developed while need was more current. Others are business connections for paying bills and such. Others were purely personal. Thankfully, merely finding my blog has reunited me with most of my blog sites.
Bit by bit, as always, the tasks I pursue will find their place and time and be done or will drift away on a sea of empty promises. There is, after all, only so much a man can do, no matter how great or small he is. Sometimes I wonder that the littler man can do more as he is not defined or confined by the realities of "great men". Which, uhrm, leaves me wide open! *smiles*
Peace be with you.
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