A day of rest.

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It took some time to decide.  I wanted to get out, be out, and get going.  So I really explored the notion.  I kept checking, looking for the energy, checking my general status, thinking, and... wanting.  Simply put, what is needed isn't there.  In some ways it is close to being there, in others it is miles away.  I even thought about a drive to the range.  But, honestly, not even that is there, not with a Saturday outing planned and with the given of what resources I have on hand.

Now, a day of rest in these times, is not actually a down day.  It merely means a day in which big things aren't done.  And, honestly though, little things need to be kept in check.  Too many little things leads to the sum total of a bit thing.  Pacing is key. 

As I am coming to some sort of life again, I am having to learn to evaluate projects.  I considered getting to my garage, and straightening that out.  While, to my mind, that seems like a little project, and is compared to SOME PEOPLE'S garages, it is no small task.  Oh, I could spend an half hour out there, at a time, but that isn't what my other mind had in mind.  No, it was thinking to dive in as if the task were a pool, and only surface when the task is done.  A fine notion if alone and to itself.  But not with many tasks, chores, and promises to keep all vying for time, space, money, and energy.  Still, an half hour out there, with allowances for an hour, might not be a bad thing.  I think the whole project, all at once, is probably too much for me at this point, truth be told.  Shifting, moving, sorting, making space for the bench, etc.  Tools, equipment, oil, sweeping, dusting, maybe even some real cleaning.  So much work for such a small space.  Yes, maybe an half hour to hour.  That will get me some fresh air, while I am at it.

Tomorrow might have to be a slower day too.  Then the shoot, a few days down perhaps, and then back to hiking, and maybe biking.  All I will be taking on the bike is water.  Several canteens, probably strapped to the bike if I can do it.  Squirt bottles don't quite cut it, at least at this point.  I wish there was an easier way to town, with the bike.  I get hot when bikers ride too far out.  And, since I try to be a man of my words, I won't ride unless I can keep tightly into the margins.  At this point, I will be honest with you, I know I can't.  I also, after these considerations, understand why others don't.  They aren't in shape enough to handle the extra effort riding on graveled roadsides affords.  Yes, I do understand.  About 23 miles, one way, would be a perfect eventual test of my bike-fu, and with a town in which to get a little food, perhaps a park in which to take a short nap, and maybe even small window shopping, or a small purchase, just to make the event more real.  Riding for riding's own sake, as even with hiking, is... difficult.  I think they call that "dry".

On to... something or other.  Later.

To bed a bit earlier and so up just a bit earlier.

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The sun is well up.  No clouds.  But it seems cool.  I slept well, and right.  All good.

She did come for me in my sleep.  Oh boy did she.  I expected her yesterday night, not tonight.  But... she probably knew that.  She had me dead to rights.  I honestly thought that was it.  How I escaped her charms I do not know.  But she ultimately failed.  Stirred, and shaken, but then left in the container.  I wish I could say it was purely my no-fu at work, but that wasn't all of it.  Prayers were being cast, but that wasn't it.  I had run out of options and lost, I just never surrendered.  More a technicality than a win, but a win it ended up being, and I'll take it.

I don't know if I will get to a hike today or not.  I just, essentially, woke.  So, actually, I am not awake quite yet.  How do I write while still asleep.  I don't.  I merely think while sitting at a keyboard, with everything turned on.  I am not writing, just reviewing thoughts and waking.  Medicine went down.  A bit of coffee is going down.  Other thoughts are peculating around, beside, and against what I write.  I'll figure out some sort of day before too long.  I may be a bit tired for a hike.  I'll know more later.

Thursday, is it?  Yeah, alright.  Today would be a good day to get out.  I could rest tomorrow for a Saturday outing.  Yes, that might work.  Though there simply aren't any guarantees.  And there is much I need to do here in the cave.  Of course, I could do everything on my immediate list and just create another list, a much more difficult list, a much more expansive list.  When you are fulling living, which I am not quite, the list never ends.  When you are dead, which isn't quite my thing either, there are no more lists.  I am somewhere between those two.  Someday, I suppose, I will get closer to the former than I am to the latter.  Or, maybe, it will always be a thing in flux.  You don't cross some lines and ever fully come back.  Reality changes.  Trust me.

Well... On to a bit o' reading and waking.  Later.

Life isn't making sense.

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No, I don't mean on my side of things.  That never will make sense!  I mean, things are... very strange out there.  Imagine, if you went traveling, and the way was made clear.  Gas prices were all unusually low, traffic made way for you inexplicably, and all ways that the world can somehow become set to the easy setting.  I would explain more, save that I won't.  I assure you, I have no way of affecting that which has changed.  But, yes, I see it.

It seems that the sewing machine I sent to my niece has been delivered.  The thread has arrived as well.  The extra bobbins and needles are on the way.  I'm not too worried, as her birthday is a bit off yet.  It should all, easily, be there well in time for... her parents to wrap it!  :p  I sent it as a gift, which was as much as I could do.  No wrapping was offered.

While I was doing bits of business tonight, I set up my account to pay off, pretty much, my phone bill this coming month, then set up automatic pay thereafter.  That should take care of it, but I best watch that until it looks to be on an even keel.  I don't mind paying my bills.  I do get a bit grumpy at the size of the bills, from time to time.  And I do fuss when things get out of kilter.  Especially in times when I don't have what it takes to fuss with it, or even make sense of it.  For the moment, I have what it takes.  Still, it's a fuss.  No real problem though.

I am financially ready for the burn trip, too.  I wasn't sure I would be.  With the presents to my nieces, I worried that I might... have to use the credit card for some of the gas.  Looks like I am good for that, and food, and else.  Not that I am rich, I'm just not as against it as I thought I might end up being.  All good.

I might be able to get to sleep in an hour or two.  I am going to try.  I called my friend this evening.  He thinks Saturday is the time to get out.  So, tomorrow, if I can get to it, I may try to simply hike out to the dam, solo, with pack and pistol, and put a few rounds down range and test the water filter.  It's a much longer hike than the other day, but completely flat.  And, if it's still cloudy, it should be just about the perfect weather for a little spin.  I must say, my skin is starting to change from the boiled lobster red to a little deeper sort of reddish-brown.  By the time I get to the burn I should almost be a foreigner!  A native foreigner?  Maybe.

Oh, and by the way...  I got the camera hooked up and I have explored the pictures I have on it.  It was quite easy.  The thing, now, will be to pick and choose.  I am not a good photographer, of course.  I realize, now, why I am not much of a camera guy.  When taking the pictures, it seems like they should just work.  But, quite often, they simply don't.  One bland version of another, no really story in them, not much to work with.  Blah.  I'll see what I can come up with though.  Hmm... I might have to read a bit on how to do a photographic spread that makes sense, before long.  It's difficult to create a... path, through photographs, that will lead others to an understanding.  Meh, I'll look into whether I can give that a shot, or not.  One less thing to take if it seems too daunting.

Later, or good night.  Hmm... hungry though.  Yeah, I think I have something ready to at least cook. 

Haiku Monday - Spring

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It looks like he is up.  It seems Karl has opened the contest, to be judged this coming Monday, the 21st.  All good by me.  Even if I am grimacing about this and that, the truth is this season is truly in my blood.  To get out, when I can, and often would be my guess.  The weather, as it comes, the scent of a new time for hereabouts, of growth and life, is upon me.  I am in a condition that should make spending heavily on enjoying it... a breeze.  A spring breeze at that.  So, I've produced a few poems right off the top of the hat and... you might even enjoy them.

sailing on warm breath

earth giving us a fine break

and a sunny smile

cool to warm - ready

rain and growth, green, blue, and grey

the world is calling

a step out the door

a spring in my step, a pack

on my back - go time!

Yeah, well.

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I didn't go down until... 6:00, or so?  Yep, something right in there.  And I slept until 15:00, I think.  I didn't check, after that first look.  And, when I first wake after going in hard I can really mess up what the time I think I see is compared to the real time.  Slept hard, and well.  No dreams haunted me.  I let the cats in to help maintain proper posture, and then did so.  My best run at absolute celibacy is somewhere at a month and a half and two.  I am going to try to best that.  The time for such notions is done.  No need to keep any potential.  Might as well make my life fully holy, as much as is possible.  Another form of death, I suppose.  But, so be it.  It will go well with the rest of my collection.

I do need to rest today.  Monday was a hard and heavy day.  And yesterday was at least a pretty good shot at it.  I might try to do a few things, but I do need a little bit of restfulness.  Thankfully, though, I am not crushed.  My sleep is off.  But, if what I am seeing is true, then a major push day nets me three to six hours of time change, so... if I push every few days, somehow, then I will see myself to days, again, then back to nights, in short order.  In other words, I will be tumbling through time until I gain some stamina and strength.  Rather than wasting energy fighting the clock, I will use energy doing what I can, and spitting out activities, tasks, chores, and such, and just let the clock deal with itself.

Tomorrow I plan on going shooting.  I don't know when I will be able to sleep, or wake though.  Still, I may call him tonight and see if he wants to go.  If not, or perhaps Saturday, either way, I may take a hike to the dam.  It's about three miles one way, but it's flatland.  I was trained to make, give or take, five mile an hour paces.  Not sure I am up to doing that for three miles straight, let alone six miles, if that was at the time geared for 20 mile runs.  Old, I am.  And ill.  The hike would give me a chance to test my water filter though too.  And, perhaps, get another box or two of ammunition down the pipe in order to keep improving my ability to hit more than the side of the barn.  Bleh.

A record, of sorts, yesterday.  Well, from 17:00, or so, last night, until now, I have had 170, plus, visitors.  What did they put in their soup?  Or... what did I write?  My record, before that, was a hundred visitors.  Now, usually, when I get a run, it is Russian.  This time it was Americans.  Russians, for the last month or two, have been visiting at three to four times their normal numbers.  Outpacing Americans.  But, yesterday?  Americans caught up.  No idea, really.  I can't tell what either the Russians, or these new American viewers, are looking at.  Well shielded.  Could be government, might be corporate or workers behind corporate.  Don't know.  I doubt if anyone cares that I got out hiking, I'm... pretty sure of that.  Most of the hits were between 19:00 and 21:00, about 103 of them, and it wasn't really a mass single, short, hit.  Lots and lots of little hits, one to three at a time.  Lots of them.

Well, on to... something.  Perhaps I can get the table cleared and arranged for honing.  And perhaps a load of laundry and a few dishes.  Dunno.  Won't be much though...  and, that, only after I wake a bit better.  Later.

Gah!

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I was down for three hours before I gave up the chase.  I hurt to sleep.  It just will not happen.

Yeah, a noon wake.

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We all know what that means.  Nothing will happen.  Too late to even get a good wakeup going.  And, probably, it means sluggishness.  Still, I thought I would at least act like I was going to go hiking.  I got everything set up, anyway.  I found the food, and put that in, did a quick check of the gear I wanted to take, filled the canteens, and all the rest.  I went on and got everything in the vehicle.  It seemed too late, so...  I went anyway.

It took a bit to find the canyon trailhead.  But not so much as a complete noob, on several fronts.  I've been there, once, about five years ago.  I did find it, if I went in a back way.  I wouldn't try that with even a 4x4 pickup, mind you.  The Xterra has a bit more... flexibility thataway.  I even remembered the camera, the camera that Desert Cat guided me to as a purchase and foam reminded me to take.  Poor Charley Brown, nobody leaves him alone.  :)

I made it, with the pack, a good 45 minutes hike up into the canyon.  I did have to rest ever so often.  And yet I was keeping well ahead of some hikers behind me.  Eventually I lost them.  Though they must not have been too serious, either, as they were gone on my return.  A few bikers were up there.  Seeing me on the path is probably not too unlike seeing a bear.  Big eyes said it all.  My pack and gear weighs in at about 25 pounds, if you were curious.  Next time I might leave the water filter, as the stream is dry.  But I will need to take the extra canteen.  Honestly though, the weight was not the problem, nor did it add to the difficulty.  Walking up a mountain path just takes some wind is all.  The weight never caused an ounce of wince.  The trip down only took 15 to 20 minutes, and I didn't need to stop, at all, for a break.  It was getting late, my one canteen was about half used, and I wasn't sure about weather and some other things.  I made it as far as reason dictated, and returned upon the same premise.  Knowing more, and how easy the return is, and timing and water use, I will try to make it a full couple of hours up in there the next time I go.  The goal, eventually, is to hike up in there with a couple of days stores and set up a base camp, and hike to and from that.

Yes, yes, I took some pictures.  I am not sure how well they came out, or if I can doctor them.  I haven't learned how to mess with them yet, or even how to load them to the computer.  Then I have to upload them somewhere else and learn how to port them.  Which... is why I don't mess with f'ing new things so much.  Something more, and problematic, and insecure, to deal with, at every step.  Still... I suppose I could look into it.  Maybe.  Bleh.  Now, if razors aren't your chat topic, perhaps *cough* pictures and computer handling and porting, are?  *cough* 

I'm not really all that tired.  I even, on the way back home, stopped and picked up some hose for slingshots and some hose I am hoping will work at adding a charcoal filter to the water filter.  I ought to sleep well tonight.  That is one of the hopes.  And, maybe, this will set me up for a full week, as I had hoped.  Mind you, a full week means two trips out hiking/biking and one or two trips to the range, some of those being double duty.  Anything else I can fit in there is fine, out there or at home, so long as it doesn't impinge upon those basics.

Later.

Son of a... gun.

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My doings yesterday were a bit more than I had thought.  Reminds me of when used ritalin, but without the awful feeling that particular medication brings.  Much was done, and at a solid pace.  I was, relatively, productive.  I tried to sleep at about 22:30 if I doubt if I slept until 0:00 or a bit later.  The horses were running.  I set the alarm for 7:00.  I heard it and had to change it.  I simply could not rise, or at the reset, or even at the third reset.  I don't remember the last alarm, only I do remember setting it.  Noon, boys and girls.  That is when I rose.  It simply wasn't a choice.  I tried, pushed, but there was nothing to push with, or even seemingly against.  It felt like what I must presume a pinned bug must sense.  Stuck.  When I could though, I did.

Fed the girls first thing.  And good thing too.  I sort of remember them being in attendance, at least when I was struggling, and usually failing, to wake, much as those at a wake... if more as vultures than mourning kin.  At least I know if I die, they won't go hungry.  And, I have given them permission, and told my mother to forgive them if she needs to, such is my will.  But NOT until I am dead.  Though, no worries, boys and girls.  I have seen Sassy, the youngest, twice now... as a crone girl cat.  I will outlive her, to much sadness.  Yes, I do see.  Don't always like what I see, but...

And yet, I think I am going to wake a bit then perhaps see about something yet today.  I'm not tired or sore, and it wouldn't matter.  Rain or shine, though it looks more like rain or at least cool and cloudy, I will just take what is offered.  As I suggested, and why I aimed for being ready for what is there and not some idyllic circumstances, I will go when the window is available, not when conditions are just so.  I do need a bit to wake up.  I have little choice there.

Sleep was very good.  Dreams.  Being aloft.  Whether of air or situation I cannot tell.  Staying above the muck and mud of life or land, all good.  Preparing the way, scouting, seeing.  The future, for good or ill, is the way of it.  I will never again be betrayed by my own eyes easily, and I will not betray Wisdom within the confines of what I see.  It is good to be a child of God.  I also realized something... interesting.  Some say, after heaven, on the new earth, we will no longer go armed, or with intent.  We will be pacifists.  I tell you this.  We will not be pacifists, but the grown children of God.  We will go forth as He has shown us.  And we will be armed with His will, after being finally perfected.  That is, we will do right and we will be armed with what is more powerful than any weapons we know today, the weapons of pure mind and will which make nuclear weapons literally insignificant in scope, range, power.  Not even the angels have a weapon like this.  Believe.  That it won't be used to kill one another is a thing not relevant.  Those who might be targeted will be protected from that by hell.

Hmm...  Don't know.  I best get to waking.  And maybe a trim using the electric trimmer for now.  The straight razor?  Oh, right, I will get to honing soon.  But I almost forgot.  I won't be using that until I get back from camping.  I don't want to go afield with a bunch of nicks and outright cuts on my face.  Oh, and if I get out today, I may stop and look for balloons with which to practice.  Boyo, those little slices sting and hurt.  Even my face is somewhat sensitive.  Later.

Well, you know, I think that is it.

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I brought a chair down, for when I go shooting.  I did a few other things, but nothing important.  I am thinking, to try and keep my day schedule in order that I'll start shutting down and going on to bed.  I'll set the alarm for eight hours, give or take.  And depending of if I can sleep well, easily, an fairly early rise.  That will give me some time to wake, and then plan, something for tomorrow.  I'm pretty much ready for a hike, a little target practice, a bike ride, but I'm not quite sure about trying to do double duty.  If I do target practice I will drive.  If I bike out there, I'll just use the water filter, take a bit of a break, then return.  K.I.S.S.  I gotta remember that, even should I get into shape.

I am pleased with what I did today.  I was doing double, or triple, duty, compared to the down days.  While it isn't the energy consumption level that a hike, bike, or even shoot will be, it is enough that I feel like I did something and actually got some things done.  It is more like what most people do on the weekend, at least folk who try.  But, for me, it was a lot.  And it was grand.  It feels like a crawl, but I do see progress, good solid progress.  Real things are arranged, fixed, done, moved, found, placed, set up, and such. 

As I get busier, blogging may suffer.  No problem, though.  It looks like my regular readers have taken flight.  But... this isn't for them anyway.  I just hope they have interesting things in life pulling them away.  If it is just anger, either they will have to deal with it, or bring it in for tending, or go away.  I don't have time for... some things.  And I am used to being alone, so...

A bit more music, then off to bed.  Good night.

Tools, well, and toys.

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Not all tools are just toys.  Not all toys are just toys, either.  While considering side, one off, hunting gear, I was looking at pellet guns.  After a very short evaluation, I decided that the humble slingshot offers just about everything a pellet gun offers, and at a vast discount.  Sure, you could spend $1,600 on a pellet gun that will take deer sized game.  But a bow, or even a standard rifle, even in smaller calibers, would do just as well.  A simple .22 pistol, the right one, might actually do the same thing.  Not impressed.  A good quality air gun, of any type, will set you back $500, starting, no frills.  A slingshot will set you back an hour of your time and some 1/4" tubing.  While it won't take a deer, neither will a $500 air gun.  You have to get north of $1k for that.  Not going to happen.  I don't have money to throw away.

So, a little digging into just what it takes to build a slingshot.  Not much, as it turns out.  If you use fresh wood, you can even microwave the moisture out!  Or, so it is said.  And, yes, that particular author used that process, and learned how to, and not to, do that.  Hint: don't wrap the branch in a towel, set the microwave on high for 10 minutes, then go off to do something almost as silly.  Something about FIRE was mentioned.  Oh I bet the mrs. was pleased as a wet cat!  The suggest was 30 second intervals, wrapped in a towel, until the hissing stops (the wood hisses as it dries).  Then, just a bit of work with various things, and you have a homemade slingshot.  Seems... possible.

But while I was considering that, I thought about a particular tool that has been on my mind.  Whether it is needed for this project, or not, is irrelevant.  It came to mind, so I started doing a bit of research.  Oh, a hand drill, non-electric.  Or two, if the price was right.  The first two I found, one at Amazon, and one at Ace,  were plastic.  Now, that might be fine if access remained viable, especially at the price.  Just grab several, test them out, and if they hold up, keep them in stock.  But, that's not how I prep.  I prep as if what I buy is all that I will have.  So I looked a bit further.  Lehman's still offers, what looks like, an all metal hand drill.  At between 4 and 10 times the price of the others, that is the price of something that will last, that you can depend on... if it pans out.  But, now I have a name.  And, there is the notion of gimlets, not a bad set to get for a travel tool kit, backup, or even as a starter kit.  They don't look fun to tinker with, but if you have to do it and don't have other options, they would do the job in a pinch.

Yes, as I wake, I tend to want to... get to my lists.  I am surprised how easily one thing leads to another, then another, and memory comes flooding back.  But to organize the thoughts, make lists, then prioritize.  That I don't have yet, but I am working on even that part of it.  If I can just stay awake long enough to get the lists made and prioritized, then if I need crash, and hit it when I wake up again.  So many things to do, so many things planned, limits even in good times...  *breath*  Yeah, okay... working on it.  These last few years are the first in decades, though, that I have been living to live, not die.  While the world seems to be suggesting otherwise.  Right here, in my country.

By the way, I think I am going to have to see if anyone has formed an information circle regarding the Bundy ranch.  I couldn't go this time, budget, time, other events and plans.  Next time, if I can, I will want to go.  Or, if another event occurs.  I don't think the feds and BLM understand just what they touched off, but it's bigger than they have any imagining would be my guess.  If you are going to shoot, shoot, don't talk about it first.  Although, for their sakes, it's probably a very good thing they didn't go in shooting.  Still, they have just dried up local, on a national level, good will and willingness to compliance.  They are, essentially, on their own now.  At best.  I hope other leo's take a good hard look at what just happened and start thinking about whether they really want to murder civilians for a few dollars more and very questionable "legal" persuasion.  If nothing else, it is becoming very dangerous.  Got to think about... self... home... hearth.  Choices... time... tick-tock, tick-tock. 

Later.

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UPDATE:  My small search for information regarding the Bundy ranch situation lead me to the Bundy ranch blog.  I have added this to my sidebar, and will look for other sources of information, as this blog is an easy target.  I don't know if there are any remote cameras keeping an eye on things, or other folks watching and updating, but I will be looking for those, and will be passing those on as I can.  I may even, if I get several feeds, create a special sidebar.  I don't believe this is over.  I want to keep an eye on things and be able, at least, to pass on information, if I can't make it.

Ah, right.

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I was wondering what the struggle with getting going this morning was.  Last night I must have turned the furnace down, in the dark.  Now, on off days, that is sort of okay.  Days where nothing but needed rest and little activity really is necessary.  But when I am trying to stir, 66 is just a bit low.  I've turned it up but it'll take a bit to warm the house, then myself.

Not much is happening in the world.  Or, I should say, everything is at a tipping or boiling point, but most of it, for now, is just sitting there.  The, not our, for we are our, government, thinks that by backing off, for a little bit, that it will come back in when people forget.  This time, however, we aren't forgetting, or forgiving.  Russia is on the border, threatening to consume the first of many small nations.  South America has a number of things, in various stages of what is happening.  Even Europe is beginning to splinter, with groups advocating everything from leaving the EU to splitting from their own countries.  It's beautiful.  Of course, those "in power" are cracking down.  It's funny, they never learn from those they themselves took that batons away from.  There are too few of those "in power", and governance is only an allowance, and ends when violence becomes the method to madness.  You can rule poorly, you can be corrupt, you can be filthy, as a ruler, but you pull out the whip, and use it on free men, you will lose everything.  Beautiful.

When I warm up?  Dunno.  A shower, just in case I can get out and just because.  A bit of straightening in the kitchen.  A little more tinkering with my pack, and doing a breaking in of the water filter.  Maybe figuring out something to eat.  Who knows.  Hmm...  Oh, and I would like to get the bike up to specs.  Check the tires for air and probably put a bit in.  For my trip, I might ride out, or drive, to the gravel pit and put a few rounds downrange.  I can use my lumbar pack for ammunition, a snack, and one jug of water.  Perhaps even taking the water filter to test at the damn, and refresh my water.  Who knows, really, though.  But... a little heat is definitely needed to get me going.  Oh, and light.  I'll open the curtains while I... sort my day.  I ought to call my friend, but I might wait until mid-week for him.  I think I tuckered him out last week, with two outings and whatever else he had going on.

Later.

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I got up to do something?  A cup of coffee?  Gah!  Where is my coffee...  I'll get it shortly.  I did make it.  But a funny thing happened on the way back to my seat.  Something about something, and tools, then... I found myself upstairs, packing my camping kit.  The sleeping bag can be a bear.  But it seemed rather easy this time.  Then the sleeping mat.  These aren't your father's camping gear, by the way.  Both the bag, pad, and cot are made 3' x 7', give or take a half a foot, if more on the give side.  And the mat is 3"-4" thick.  So, it was more of a wrestling match.  As I said, the sleeping bag went down without a whimper, same with the mat.  The cot was easy enough, but "somehow" (don't look at me) a screw and bolt had fallen out.  The screw was three feet away and the nut was where it dropped.  That isn't even possible, but...  I ended up having to go down and get a screwdriver and the socket set.  After getting that back together, I folded and scrunched that together, and into it's own carry bag.  Finally, the tent.  Wow.  Now that is what I call wrestling.  I had to work it over several times, trying to get more and more air out, and figure out how to get the fly to fit in there, and compress, compress, compress.  Oh, I finally got it together, and in there.  But I knew I had worked.  Well, for a short bit.

That was on my list, and I am not close to being done.  I am still moving a bit slowly.  Oh, right, COFFEE!  Yeah.  I am not sure I will get out today, though it is possible.  Barring that, I have a ton of leftover projects from the weekend.  And, since it isn't the weekend, and the rest period is over, I may push it a bit harder.  Not like a casual observer might know, but I will.  Push, pull, plunge, drag, sort, fix, store, go, go, go!  Oh, right, I think I'll set up the water filter when I get my coffee, then take just a short rest before... whatever is next.  I sort of have to hurry.  While I do have the rest of my life, I only have until I am too tired to move as well.  And, hopefully, I can keep it going until Thursday, maybe Friday.

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Well, yes, I did head out to find my coffee.  Which I found, but then remembered something else, and... promptly lost.  It's a 26 ounce, urhm, cup.  Glass.  Not petite.  But... with gear here, the rain protection sleeves for the pack out and drying there (there are two, one black and one standard forest camo), and my mind trying to figure out how to do or find a dozen or more things all at once, you might be surprised at what can go missing.  Ah, but what I remembered was where the charger for some walky-talkys was.  I knew the general area.  After a bit of searching I did find them, but they are for the wrong devices.  As I was coming back to sit for a bit, I espied the water filter, and knew that had to be readied.  Running half a liter of definitely good water through it works.  But, then you have to dry it out.  While the ceramic filter is silver impregnated, it is just best to use caution.  So, I figured out how to set it up, ran the water through it, and now it is drying.  I went to sit down but finally remembered my coffee.  A quick search and here I am.

Really, bit by bit, it is coming together.  I just have to remember to check the temps in the morning.  It must have dipped pretty low outside last night and 66 wasn't enough to get me going.  Turning the thermostat down at night is the only way I can really let the girls sleep with me, or the heat wafts in.  Even at 70 it can be a little difficult for me to sleep.  At least I figured out the problem and solved it, before I lost a day.  Not bad.  For me.  More to do.  Always more.  Now I have to figure out where the battery charger for the walky-talkys are, on top of clearing space for honing, doing a few remaining dishes, and perhaps knocking another load of laundry through, or two.  It's mostly the specialty stuff remaining, wools, synthetics, whites, and a hodgepodge of remnants.

Tomorrow though?  I will get out.  Bike, in the vehicle then on foot?  I don't know that!  I just don't know.  But that won't be all.  I have plenty else to do and prep, for short, mid, and long term projects.  Finally, I am busy.  Able to be and enjoying it.  But, oh yeah, I will try to remember to check and probably fill the tires for the bike tonight, and maybe oil the chain, sprocket, and whatever else looks dusty, then run those things through their paces while I am at it.  Hmm, sometime this week or next I need to get an oil change and tire rotation.  I might, eventually, learn to do those things myself, and get the kit needed, but for now it is much more convenient to take it in.  It wouldn't save much, probably... nothing on the tires since free rotation comes with the purchase.  But for convenience, and just doing it when it is ready, and learning to check the oil, for sure, and know... myself.  Plus... it's manly!  Bleh.  Like I care or that even means anything.  Hype.  But... it has it's reasons.

 A bit more music, then... on to something else.  Later

-------

Had to chuckle.

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Someone suggested that there is nothing new under the sun, so you should know history.  Well, that wasn't funny.  And maybe not to you, but I saw that answer and had to chuckle for my purposes.  The following is an abbreviated, but absolutely accurate, single word version of history.

Today?

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Good question.  I've spent the weekend prepping for "the week".  And, while I didn't get to everything I did give it a hardy effort, did much, did a few things that weren't on the list, and kept up a nice calm pace.  I am pretty much ready to hit a trail, go shooting, perhaps do some business.  I've also been waking a bit later, staying up too late as well.  Last night, actually, I didn't get down until about 2:00.  But, having rested, and just having worked so hard on getting my days straight, I decided to set the alarm for 8:00 and just push it a bit, with the goal of stabilizing my day, wakeup, through the week, at about 6:00.  That gives me a few hours to tinker and wake before the sun, or even get out and do a few things, should I feel the need, in the cool of the morning.  To that end, I may open the curtains and setting the slats just right so sun, but not eyes, can enter my bedroom in the mornings.

My neighbor suggested Green Canyon, for hiking.  The other paths still have snow.  Snoeshoes, it was suggested, might work on others, if the particular path isn't too steep.  I am not quite ready for snowshoeing yet.  As I suggested, I wish to take very simple paths, and small areas, first.  I want to become familiar with them in flatter areas to boot.  I have done Green Canyon, that is the path my last lady friend and I traversed, unwisely, as noob "crosscountry" skiers.  [hint: don't pick a mountain pass as your first (for me) or second (for her) crosscountry skiing trip]  We went up and over and back in to the yurt they have set up back in there.  Basically, a half day trek.  Only then we returned.  Without skins or other sort of options on our skis to make the trek "possible".  Heh.  So, I have a pretty good idea of what the path is like.  Flat, back to a green gate, then up-up-up!  Lots of bends, some decent views, trees, plenty of space usually to take a rest, and a stream/river off to the side.  And I don't have to go all of the way to the yurt.  Still, if it isn't snowed in, or too muddy, a nice little hour in, and back, would not be a bad thing, all give or take.

I am just not sure if today is the day.  The sun seems to be out, and well.  And while I didn't wake exactly at 8:00, resetting the alarm for 9:00.  Waking more like at 8:24 or something, as while I couldn't wake exactly at 8:00, and beside hating the alarm, I really wanted to push waking as early as I could.  Not a lot of sleep, and pushing it a bit this morning, so...  Just not sure if today is the day.  I need to get to bed just a wee earlier, 22:00 if I can swing it, perhaps even 20:00 if I can pull that off.  I may just finish my tinkering and cleaning and honing, today, with the goals of going to bed earlier, and waking earlier, tomorrow.  And, should that fail, getting out hiking, one way or the other, Tuesday, earlier in the day, and seeing if that won't help me rearrange my sleep.  If not?  Do it again, only harder, longer, and such.

While Einstein, for what it is worth, suggested that doing the same thing, expecting different results, is insanity, or some such, I understand a few things.  First, what I have tried, that is waiting until my body is ready, absolutely will never work.  Second, that while hiking may not help initially, one shot is not enough.  Like antibiotics, sometimes it takes a series of the medicine to work.  So... there is that.  I am excited.  I am pretty much ready.  Oh, I found my shoe polish last night.  It might be good to treat my boots before I head out.  A little extra water resistance, and a bit of a shine, would all be good things. 

Good day and later.

Impressed.

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No, not by anything I have done.  By the one who has mapped well enough to direct others.

Oh but the plans are moving forward and coming together.

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I'm still just a bit bodily rough from all the rocking and rolling last week, but it isn't interfering with my plans.  I actually think, when I am doing better, these aches and pains help.  These non-health pains tend to get me to look forward to more, and better, pains.  Yum!  Of course, any sympathy I can milk them with is just icing on the cake.  :)

I am still moving a bit slowly.  Which is fine.  So far today I have put a load through, folded that, and put it up, with another load in the washer and dryer.  There would have been even another load through, but I wanted to wash the moldy stuff again.  I'm not going to fuss with it anymore.  I have put that load in the dryer and am washing my big pack and a camp pillow.  I also put my pack together.  Mostly.  I need to figure out what to do with the water filter before it's first use, square a few more items away in there, made a decision on a few pieces, and grab an MRE, maybe two.  But it's... pretty much ready.  I didn't think I liked that little pack much.  But then I have never really used it more than as a holding device.  Packing it for the trail, I am finding that it is a well made smaller day pack, with easy but secure access to various pockets and a few other additional more open areas.  It will do very well for it's intended purpose.  I also have a waste pack that might go along for more intermediate trips, just to add a few more things, such as a tarp, maps, extra food, and just a few other items.  I could always use the bigger bag, modulated down.  The big pack has three main "packs", a huge center bag along with two, what they call rockets, that can either attach to the main bag, be used individually, or used as a pair.  It offers a lot of flexibility.  The main pack even has a rain cover for it that is big enough to cover the "rockets", if they are also attached.  You can live out of that for weeks, with a little caution as to packing.

Resting, now.  After the next load of laundry is dealt with, I may refresh the rinse on the dishes to be done after the next load of laundry and rest cycle, but clean off the kitchen table and prep for some honing.  I certainly have a lot going on, especially for a resting weekend.  But, to be honest, I think I am at a point where this will be more the normal.  As I get better, I see things I can, and want, to do.  I have much prepared to be done.  I have many interests, needs, and wants.  And, while still rather crippled up, I'm not dead yet either.  I honestly don't know how long this will last, or how well I can stay on track are regards health, but no one ever does know.  You could be hit by a bus tomorrow, you could have an x-ray for a different thing pop cancer into your life, there is no guarantee.  All I know is that while I can, I will.  It's all I've got like you will never ever know.  And I'll take it.  Yes sir, I'll take it and run with it as fast as I can.

This coming week?  Trailhead finding and exploring, a bit more shooting, perhaps even a ride out to the range on my bike.  Well, and checking to see if the tires need some air.  One trip will be with my friend, if he wants to get out.  Shooting, a drive, a trip downtown shopping, whatever he wants.  I will need to stock up on ammo a bit.  Simply put, getting my shooting back into good order is going to take bullets, and I don't wish to be caught flatfooted, as I have been, on too many things, these last years.  I just hope .22 ammunition comes back before long.  Once I get ranged and practiced, that is absolutely the cheapest way to keep it up, when prices run as they should.  While I do believe there are more shooters, and they are learning and practicing with the .22, I do lay most of the scarcity on the government, one way or the other.  Don't listen to the paid talking heads out there.  They are either ignorant or stooges.

Well... On to seeing what you all are up to, perhaps a review of the news' (like a' = a not).  It's not what they write, it's what they don't, things that slip through, and other such I review, not the news' that they present.  Later.

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Another load through, folded, and put up.  I moved the pack to the dryer.  Since I only ever use fluff, I don't really mind drying it that way.  Because of pockets, folds, and areas of thicker material, it may still need to be air dried to finish it.  The load that I took out of the dryer was the previously moldy clothing.  After five washes, two spins in the dryer, and some time to air out, there is no mold scent left.  I did find the pack shovel, and put it in a pocket that holds it perfectly, and is set aside for just that purpose.  So many little and big things yet to do, even today.  Cleaning off the table, honing then cleaning that off, setting up the water filter and getting that packed, figuring out whether the big pack and "rockets" will need airing out.  And, if I can get to it, I may pack my sleeping bag, tend, and such, and have those ready to go.  They have been airing out since burning man. :p

I found my motorola talkabouts.  The batteries are dead, rechargeables, so I will need to find the charger.  I never did figure them out.  But it seems that, to use certain channels, and really any channel on high power, one has to have some licenses.  I think they are easy, considering it is the government, to obtain those.  But, really?  Two licenses, or forms anyway, for a walky-talky?  More than annoying.  Even Canada doesn't require that.  More make work, and problems, bureaucracy.  I sure we take our country back from those useless shats, soon.

A shower went in.  When I can, I do.  And, I can.  Every other day, every third day in rest periods if I'm not up to it, every day if I need to do business and associate with folk.  I thought about shaving, but I'd like to have some whiskers when I start using the straight razor.  I'm not sure when that will be, could be as early as Tuesday, maybe tomorrow though I doubt it.  Hmm... I might use the trimmer to knock the bush back a bit though.  Yeah... 

Oh, Sam says hello.  She is just doing chin rests on my arm as I try to type.  She owns my arms, and lap, and any food I might have, for her or me.  Hey, nothing personal, she suggests, but...  MINE!  Later.

Alright, I'm going to have to fix that.

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Sleep has been rolling over.  Midnight is, really, a bit late to be going to bed.  Last night, if because I was tinkering with laundry, it rolled around past 1:00, and pretty close to 2:00, maybe.  Which means a late start.  No sir, no siree.  I'm simply going to have to push that back.

Now, on the good side, I have done fairly well this weekend.  Two loads of laundry through, and another about to be dried.  Dishes were washed, mostly.  I did find the last item I need for shaving, if I haven't completely cleared a space for honing on the kitchen table, but I do have today.  All the gear wanted for the hiking pack has been found and gathered.  I am washing one of the covers for one of the canteens.  Other than that, and cleaning the water purifier as per first use instructions, I'll be packing that up today.  Actually, that will be my generic vehicle b.o.b.  The only thing I want to add to that are some gel inserts.  Until my feet get used to putting some miles on them, I want to have something as an insurance that I can continue.  Or, if I somehow end up having to walk many miles, and am not really prepped for it, these will give me a very slight boost.  Generally speaking, I won't use those.  Or, that is the intent up front.

I have been opening the curtains.  I am almost getting used to that bright shiny burning thing in the sky.  My eyes aren't have so sensitive.  And, from being out often, my skin is actually getting used to the sky broiler.  It's not enough, if it never is.  But last week was a hardy start to a summer of, for me, work.  Many of you would call what I am preparing to do a lazy man's extended summer vacation.  Just remember, I am a dead man.  Dead men don't dance, so me giving it a whirl is no small feat.  It's taken decades, if mostly because they weren't treating the health issue.  Idiots.  I would say that I am lucky to be alive, but neither was it fortuitous as torturous as it was, nor do I believe luck had a thing to do with it.  But, now that I am here, and getting my feet back on the ground, I'll just move forward as hard, fast, and strong as I may.  I... have things to do.

Lovely day here.  A mix of sun and clouds.  I just enjoy that because anything could happen, or nothing.  Today is a mystery day, but I get to see the sun right up front.  If it goes away, I don't mind.  If it goes and then shines through, off and on all day, all good.  And if the sun and wind chase off the clouds, even that is alright.  But a quick sip of sun, first thing, on this particular day anyway, sees me off to a good start.  Have a great day yourselves.  Now get off my damned porch.  Sunday?  Oh, and go to church, or at least read the passages for the day and pray for your sinful soul, and mine, you heathen.

Just bits, here, there, home, and away.

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Not sure why I fuss.  Not knowing.  Still, I suppose it all looks sort of interesting.

A bit at a time.

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The dishes were kicked out, and are simply soaking in a hot tub.  It's the way I do things.  A load of laundry was put in, when I started the dishes, but it won't be done for another 15 minutes.  Yeah, I'm watching.  When the laundry is done, I'll change loads through, finish the dishes, and begin making a meal.  After that, a bit of a break to digest, then maybe later one more load and a couple of scouting trips through various of my caches in order to try to locate the goods.  I figure I can have the dishes and laundry done, be as geared as I can be, and have the kitchen read for a bit of honing by Monday, perhaps by tomorrow afternoon.  Finding a couple of items is turning into a real pain.  Then again, I was able to find many items from a rather long and disparate list, looking here, there, and everywhere else.  There is some hope.

The weather is putting a dampener on things.  While the clouds are high, they are thick.  It isn't extremely dark, the day just lacks that "umph" that the sun gives it.  And yet, for a day of ease, it is a good thing.  Further, I need to be prepared for that.  Rain or shine, I may get out and take strolls in whatever comes my way.  I simply refuse to be a delicate flower.  Beyond that, I actually prefer cooler days to begin getting in shape.  I have never minded rain or snow, if because of the limits of my one outdoor friend, and my own up to now, there has been little incentive to get out in inclement weather.  I'm actually hoping that at least one, but more two, of my days out this coming week, will be during suspect weather conditions.  I'm suspect, it should be too!  I just need one day of shine, or moderate warmth anyway, to help get my friend out.  He's not a baby, just coddled by the limits of his conditions, at this point.

Beside being a day of rest, and that I am enjoying the cool that comes with the clouds, the view is still fantastic.  Snow covered mountains afar, green grass and growing things near, and... life is good.  Hmm... laundry should about be ready.  I always set the time long, because sometimes the machine takes it's time, and the "time suggestion" on the machine is always short.  And I like beating alarms.  Later.

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I decided to put the musty load through, the one that had been left in the washing machine.  It's smelling just a bit better.  Still, I did a prewash and extra rinse, something else, using as hot of water as allowed, adding vinegar to every rinse and wash.  Lots of vinegar.  After that I will wash it again, depending on how it smells, at least one more time.  Whatever.  The last wash will be just soap, though an extra rinse will be added.  I could smell the must, but I could even smell the old vinegar, from the first wash, on it.  Not exactly a good pairing, by the way.  Nothing like having something (vinegar) singe your nose, waking it up to what otherwise might have been easy to notice then stop smelling.  Once singed by the vinegar, the musty scent then invades.

I also did a bit more digging and found one of my shaving brushes, the travel kit one.  I had remembered it as being smaller.  It is in excellent condition, as it is in a brass travel tube.  There is a very small air hole, which actually probably allowed it to stay in better condition.  I would still like to find my other brush.  A couple of brushes allows a day to air out and dry well, maybe even several brushes would be better.  But, for now, I just need one.  I still can't find the water purifier.  I'll just keep at it, looking in what seems like a new spot, or three, every time I get up to check the laundry, do a spot of kitchen work, or what have you.  I'm... on it.  Worst case I will simply have to go without it.

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Finally!  I found the water purifier.  Though I am probably going to look online for an inline charcoal filter addition.  It just... it's one more layer.  I hope my ability to handle bad things stays with me as I try this thing out.  Who really knows how good it actually is at getting bad stuff out.  Sure, there are tests, and averages, and this, and that.  But when it comes right down to it, even if it removes 99% of bad things, lets just say all bad things, that means every sip is a risk.  River or lake water, a spring, it just doesn't matter.  Some of those are as toxic as any poison you can drink, naturally.  You can't even always tell by the flora or fauna in or near it, as they may have adapted or learned so leave it along, leaving no trace.  Never mind, it is multiple layers of surety, just not complete.  I understand this.  I also found my drybag, for clothes.  That is just another sort of layer of protection.  Even my rain pants will go in there.  I'm not sure how good the poncho is.  It's one of those cloth seeming ones.  So I might take a rain jacket as well, at least until I know if the poncho will hold.

Laundry should be about ready to check.  It took a very long time, since I hit every pre and post option, three in total, plus cranked everything up to wash extra long that the machine allowed.  A sniff test, to see if the odor is gone.  If not, another long wash, adding baking soda to the mix.  But then that will be it.  After that it will get soap, and an extra long run, pre-wash, and extra rinse.  Then it goes into the drier and that is that.  I simply won't fuss with it anymore.  Since I haven't done this in five, actually more like nine, years, I'm chalking it up as a freak accident.  My health was pretty nasty this winter, and dosing up seemed to worsen things before it brought improvements.  So I'm not going to worry about it the more.

Supper was made.  Beef, cream of mushroom, cream, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and noodles.  It was pretty tasty.  I had to add all the extra fats because when I bought the mushroom mix, I didn't see that it was half the fat!  Fixed it!  Fuckers.  Keep that damned artificial stuff off the damned shelves.  I don't want fake stuff.  God only knows what they put in it to make it halfway edible, but I doubt if He would approve.  Evil morons trying to run the world, and us into the grave, is what all that is about.  And I'll truck none of it.

Later.

The feds had their first Custer moment.

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A brief headcount, a little polling, the leak of information behind the real reason for the raid, and the corrupt government has backed down.  Oh, don't think Mr. Bundy is out of the woods yet.  No worries about a "legal battle", from what I am gathering, they lost that long ago.  Even going so far as to refuse money he sent them, despite that neither his family, nor he himself, ever sold that land.  The government just claimed it.  These are the people who raided the home of a little boy, in body armor with machine guns, in order to force him, against his will, back to a communist country... where he was institutionalized, several times, until they tortured the notion of free will out of him.  No, the threat will remain until Reid is removed, until congressmen can no longer use insider trading to enrich themselves, and probably not until we get rid of congressmen who will enrich themselves to the gain of our economic and military enemies through selling out American people and businessmen.  Keep an eye on that.  Oh, but it sounds like they are releasing the cattle they stole.  I'm not sure what "release" means, when dealing with the feds and BLM.  It could be from a transport airplane at 30,000 feet for all I know.  Lots of double talk in there.

It's not just our government that is hitting resistance, and heavy resistance.  The Chinese are just coming into a time where people are losing their fear.  The fear of God is greater than the fear of death, for right Christians.  Russia, against an, essentially, unarmed minor state, is checking it's quads and shaking.  Sure, Ukraine is nervous, and should be.  They aren't sure just how alone they are.  I think they realized raping foreign nations is no longer simply accepted.  And every nation they butchered after the last war realizes... they may be next.  There is no placating a tyrant.  They have built up their forces on the border, but today?  With the internet, open access satellite imagery, and a strong disinterest in tyranny that is only growing, and world wide?  They aren't even secure in their homeland, nor in complete agreement.  The old order isn't sure a mass charge into machine guns, with enemies at home aplenty already, is quite the way to go.

Ah, but there is some good news.  It seems, while the BLM here in Utah has been claiming poverty about doing it's damned job, and culling excess animals, a county is stepping up, and recruiting BLM officials, along with their own, to get the job done so that ranchers can do what they are paying to do, feed their animals.  No, I give no credit to BLM.  They are only doing it because they aren't being given a choice.  BLM, in Utah or Nevada, are not worth a nickle as to what they are supposed to do.  Fire them and get non-partisans in, men who understand how things are, abide the rule of law, and are there to legitimately enforce rules of use and such.  I'm tired of God damned atheisistic un-American goverment officials.  They simply have to go.  I hope the Mormon church wakes up to Reid, as the Catholic church woke up to Pelosi et. al.  Gotta cull the goats, especially when they oppress what they say is their own.  Churches, groups, people, have two choices.

I am pleased to see what I saw, but it...  It's trying to dig out from a very deep hole.  We aren't up to our ankles, we are up to our necks in government.  They are trying to use psychology to take away our rights.  They are trying to use environmental issues to quash our rights.  They have taken away our right to own land, at their whim.  Everything they do is wrong, and it is being enforced more and more.  Changing politicians isn't enough.  We have to get rid of most government workers, who, for the most part, have been weaponized against us, either with arms or as informants.  A lot of damned work to do, and some of it may have to get real ugly.  I don't think there is a choice.  But if you don't stand your ground, they will take it.  They might anyway, but your sacrifice will be the alert for others.  And, besides, once they have taken what they want from you, do you honestly think, then, that they are just going to let you walk?  Yeah, it's that bad.

Still, it looks like the little dragons are sharpening their claws and doing more than just puffing a bit o' smoke.  Yeah... Custer didn't see that coming either.  At least with Custer, he was doing what he was supposed to be doing.  His end is the only part that is similar to modern politicians, feds, wrongful leos, and such.  But... it's... good enough.  The rest of it will be just the opposite.

Just Saturday? Goody.

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I was thinking it was already Sunday.  Two more days of low and slow, gearing up, and sorting the cave is much better than one.  All I can really say about that.  I think, that my "week" out ended Thursday allowed me to count Thursday as Friday.  No harm, though, this time.  Just something to chuckle about.  Despite what you may presume, I chuckle often, laugh when I can, and usually rather easily.  Even at myself, or right after getting angry.

Today will be back to looking for a few items.  Fewer items are being sought today than yesterday though.  My pack kit, that which has been located anyway, is all in one spot and will be sorted when I find, pretty much, the last piece... the purifier.  The shaving brushes... I don't even know where to start.  I must have missed them, as they should have been somewhere near the razors and shaving soap, or I would think.  I do believe I had them relatively rounded up, so will start in my bathroom.  Dishes and laundry will just be done in fits and starts, while searching and yet while trying to keep the pace more leisurely.  I do have tomorrow to search, and clean, but I'd rather knock more out today so that I might find new things to do tomorrow.

I've been watching the thing in the next state over.  Beside the corrupt politician and doing favors for enemies, I do believe this was also created to change focus from Crimea to more local create problems.  Oh, it's a problem.  And more likely than not people are going to die.  But it was created as a distraction.  No, politicians honestly don't care.  They are too busy lining their pockets, and figuring out how to do that more smoothy, to worry about, pretty much, anyone else.  Between returning favors, scratching backs, and getting rich, they really don't have time to think about much else other than covering their trails.  Which, obviously, they aren't very good at.

I heard that it was F.E.M.A. appreciation day, or month, or something.  Oh, go play with them as you like.  Just understand, whatever the government does, at this point, it's real focus is on collecting data... on you.  If you want to figure out how to prep for a short term incident, don't go to the government.  They are not there to help you.  Find civilian sources.  There are many out there.  Figure out how much you would need for a week, then stock that.  Water bottles aren't that expensive, but they don't exactly give them away either.  Figure a gallon and a half a day, which in a static situation should be enough for drinking, bathing (if you are judicious), and food prep.  If you live in a desert, whether it looks like it or not, add a bit more water.  When the ac goes off it gets a little tight.  Actually, add a bit more for winter as well.  Stay off the government radar and do not trust them.  For all you know, if they know you have extra food they will label you a hoarder and come get it.  You really can't tell what this government might do, and do you really even trust the people who work for the government?  Really?  It's up to you.

Dishes have been set up for washing within the next hour.  I'll put a load in when I go out to wash them.  As I am washing, or when I finish, I will clear off the kitchen table.  The table isn't dirty, just cluttered.  That should be simple enough.  And, after a load or two through, I might make something to eat.  Hamburger, cream of mushroom, and macaroni shells, maybe with cheese melted on top?  Something like that.  And, sometime after that, a renewed search for the missing items.  Well... it's a plan.  And it's a good plan.  Time will tell.  Oh... sounds like the coffee is ready.  Yum!  Later.

Tools, again.

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Oh, sure, my shop isn't even set up.  And, yes, I will usually be using electric tools, at least... once I redo the electric distribution to, and in, the garage.  Sure, there is that.  However, in being a practical thinker, and realizing some things, I understand that pursuing quality hand tools along the way is neither a waste of time or money.  And more, learning to use them, alongside the electrical tools, is the only way to go.  Even if electricity never goes out, a possibility, sometimes I like to do things by hand, and without so much noise.  One of the types of tools I have a great interest in collecting, to a point, are planes.

You have no idea how much research I have done on the topic.  Until recently, however, my research was more along the lines of that of a fanboy of some sports club or other.  The reality eluded me.  The costs were prohibitive.  And I didn't have the potential for a shop, or was too busy settling in.  Now that I am settling in, costs are coming under control, things are being figured out, I decided it was time to review these tools again.  As it turned out, I bumped into a sweet article.  It starts out below, the whole quotation will link you over to the site.

While hand planes are alluring to many woodworkers, getting started can be confusing since there are so many options. If you ask 100 hand plane enthusiasts which planes to start with, you might receive as many answers. Based upon my 15 year love affair with hand planes, the following is my suggested approach to help you get started.

From what I read, past research, and some other things, I believe this author offers a very good, solidly laid out, roadmap to a starter set for a beginner with this particular type of hand tool.  Now, there are other tools, eventually, along this line, that I would like to get.  A shave, a various mallets, several hand drills (non-electric, I mean), a larger selection of both wood and metal files.  I do have chisels, various hand saws, and some other things.  I actually have a decent selection of tools, but it's never really enough.  Although it can become a bit too much.  And you can keep gold filigree, special editions, and antique unusable items.  If it doesn't work, or I wouldn't use it due to fear of ruin, I don't want it anywhere near my shop.

Just a Friday night f.y.i.  Now, please, enjoy your relaxation, perhaps a sip of something soft or hard, bubbly or smooth, and perhaps think about what tomorrow brings.  Find something about which to look forward to tomorrow.  I have a few minor plans.  And for Sunday too.  No promises, just a... notion or three.

Putting it together.

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Many things are coming together.  Things have come together before, only to see me lose track, patience, or windows of opportunity.  And, that will continue to happen.  Beyond my realities, there are the simple facts of life.  Still, while it is going, I will be running with it.

The final honing stone arrived today.  It is a 12k grit stone.  I'm not even positive that it is necessary.  And yet, that one extra notch of sharpness might be worth the cost.  In any case, it will probably end up finding some use or other.  I yet need a lapping stone.  There are several types and notions regarding them that I would like to nail down before pulling the trigger.  And being that it will take some time, just honing four razors, before I will need to consider lapping, I am in no great hurry.  I would like to get it before it is needed, however.  My guess is that it won't be needed for years.  Still...  It's on the more sure, shorter, list, just no where close to the top.

I have been looking through my kit and clothes for what to add to my pack.  I don't think I will be adding extra jeans, but I may go with waterproof pants, and the poncho.  Generally I will be hiking in jeans, or cotton cargo pants.  Perhaps shorts if those work better, though my cargos are convertible, being pants or shorts so will probably be used a bit more often.  I have a pile of items and garb I am considering.  Some of it, like one of the knives, will be worn on the belt.  And yet it is good to have an extra in the pack.  A bandana, a small very weak, medical kit, hats will be taken as I go out the door, with a few in the auto usually anyway, if I otherwise forget.  I did grab an emergency ration, and will grab an MRE in a bit.  I can't find my water purifier.  Danged expensive, that last, so I always worry.  Bit by bit it will come together.

The pack I am starting with isn't that big.  So space, and really weight, initially, will be limited.  A good thing, as it will take some time to work my way up to even the ten to fifteen pounds, plus knife, pistol, and extra mags.  I have a modular pack, which can be smaller than this bag all the way up to being about big enough to handle a base camp, and a mobile camp, in modern terms, with judicious planning and tight packing... and the strength and stamina to get to the base camp.  The loverly thing about that pack is that, once I open up a base camp, I can modulate the pack down and repack it for trekking.  A one-shot wonder.

After, or while, I am finishing off my pack, I am hoping to clear a space on the table to begin honing a couple of the blades.  The cheapo didn't get sent, the order was canceled, so I don't have a potentially disposable unit to work.  I have sharpened with stones before, just not at this level of fineness.  I will use one, to start, and check my work as some have suggested and I tend to trust, then strop, then shave.  When I can find my brushes, either one will do.  I will hone one razor though, and have it ready, or at least ready to test.  So much is going on I worry about losing track.  So far so good, so I'll keep going.  

My friend scrunched his face when he saw my left pinky, the one I deep friend six, or more like seven time, in a row mostly, over seven or eight days.  It does look rough.  But if you had done that, even once, you wouldn't have skin on your fingers to look rough.  I am not fireproof, but I am rather resistant.  Yeah, tongs.  In a few weeks to months you will never even know I cooked that finger.  But right now it is rather gnarly looking.  Yeah, I felt it.  It's not like I can't feel.  It's just... it didn't hurt all that bad.  Doctors seem amazed at how sensitive I am, foot to finger.  It's just that pain doesn't mean all that much.  Still, don't test it.  You probably are much more sensitive to pain.

On to... something.  Later.

Went in hard.

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I couldn't close up shop until midnight, again.  Too much had been activated, over a period of time, to quickly or easily end the day.  I see, now, that overstimulation is part of my problem, as I've noted to a degree before.  What I realize now is that it is cumulative, pretty stout to deal with, and I'm not quite sure how to counter it.  Shutting down earlier in the day, less caffeine especially later in the day, all these tricks that work for most folk won't, or I should say, don't, and probably can't, help.  I jest about this, tease about that, but my body truly is feral.  Sick?  Sure, but that could be worse if I didn't have the mind that I do, and faith.  A feral body has so much more going on.  It isn't an order of magnitude more going on, it is exponentially more.  I know many refuse to believe.  It simply doesn't matter.  I refused to believe for a very long time myself.  It was easier to disbelieve, dismiss, when I lived in a fog all of the time that allowed me to forget... in just a few... one, two, five, ten... seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks.  Now I don't have that luxury.  Never mind, I am hoping that, as I work up, and find to work hard enough and often enough, this will take care of itself.  The thing is, I may not be physically healthy enough to dig out of that particular sand trap.  I'll just move forward in faith anyway.

Sleep?  Not, actually, like a log.  It was a rather good sleep.  While I am sore, as if I had slept too hard, that is from actually having been busy this week.  This, that, the other thing.  It has all added up to a slightly sore body.  I slept long, but really, I needed it.  I set the alarm for an eight hour sleep, reset it for a ninth hour, shutting it off after that.  I ended up waking right at eleven hours of sleep.  My back feels like a pro worked it right to the breaking point without leaving it vulnerable.  I have muscle groups that I didn't know existed screaming something about "it HURTS!".  My lungs have a bit of a burn in them.  My ribs are something on the other side of grumpy.  Some of my joints feel like they have been massaged by my massive cleaver, but dulled so it wouldn't actually cut.  But... all good.  This is how I need to feel.  It means I am heading in the right direction.  Especially since I know I rolled well and moved in my sleep, so it's all just deserts from my efforts.  Yum!

More?  This is just the start.  By summers end, I hope to have felt like this, and much worse, scores of times.  And I will have to work right through it sometimes.  I'm not a delicate flower, boys and girls.  I don't mind pain, and actually enjoy it when I get to earn it.  It is not a matter of fear, it is a matter of capacity to be able to work myself like this.  It didn't take much.  Three days out, none of them full days, only two of them on my feet all that much, and here I am.  I can only imagine what a couple of hikes and bit of biking on a third day will do.  But I am looking forward to it, if I can just hold onto this momentum.

As I said, I'll be putting my pack together today.  Tomorrow?  If I get the pack done, and some laundry, I'll hit my boots with a spit polish, finish the dishes, and maybe start painting the rifle again.  I won't be moving fast.  There is a time to push and there is a time to rest.  I need a bit of rest.  But I think I can do some little things in there too.  I don't know what the Lord put into my soup, but I am liking it.  :)

Later.

Pretty done in.

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It doesn't seem like much to most, but three days out and about, in one week, is a record of epic proportions in these parts.  Especially the last six to nine months.  That much travel is about my max per month until now.  I am not as done in as on any of those previous one day trips, either.  Still, I am ready for some well earned, by my standards, sleep.

I did stop at the post office.  The strop dressing compound was in, along with the diamond grit.  The medicines I ordered were also in.  Oddly enough, even through it all, I had been paying attention to that.  If the medicine wasn't in by Friday I was going to call and leave a gentle reminder.  I can't stay on them if I don't have them.  Losartan is okay, if it only lowers my bp by a touch.  But the water pill is vital.  A few days off that and I puff up like a blowfish, until I get used to it, mostly.  Then water retention comes and goes as it will.  No making heads or tails of what food, or drink, will do regarding that.  *puff*

Tomorrow?  As I said, I am hoping to put together a pack for travel.  I may be taking my water purifier along, as well as two liters of water.  I need lots of water, at least at first, when I begin pushing.  That evens out over time.  I do need to time water stops, but even when I was in highschool sports, I realized I needed more water, early in the season, than even two or three other guys.  Guys my size, so it isn't a size thing.  Then, later in the season I was able to cut water, and needed to, or I would get cramps.  But early in the season I could drink almost as much as I wanted, and it helped a great deal.  That hasn't changed.  I guess I will find out how well my water purifier actually works.  If I am going to start using it, I ought to get a replacement filter for it.  They say it's good for 50k liters (1300 gallons), but... you know advertisers.  I think there is an inline charcoal filter, as well.  I may look into that.  It's sort of slow, at a liter per minute, and I have doubts about even that speed, but I will be needing a rest, frequently, so that isn't as much of an issue for me.

What to take though?  Rain gear of some sort, probably just a simple poncho.  A warmer, synthetic, shirt, spare socks and underwear, and some other clothes.  All clothes in a dry-bag.  I'd love an extra pair of boots but that just won't go, unless I'm packing in heavy.  And maybe camp shoes, something a little lighter, but again, only if I am camping out and going in heavy.  A bit of food, an MRE and then some extra long term survival eats.  None of that is exactly tasty, but hunger provides a wonderful spice.  Water, of course.  Probably a pistol, as the shotgun would be a bit much up front.  An axe, or at least a decent knife, perhaps two, would be wise.  That will, pretty much, be it.  If I start taking longer trips, I might bring a tarp, for setting up a minor shade tent.  Oh, probably ought to take a thermal wrap.  Ah, and some minor fire-starting kit.  When I start going in deeper, and longer, I'll have to get maps, add in a compass, and take a book on orienteering.  Learning on the fly, again, I suppose.  I expect lots of things to go wrong.  I just hope I cover enough bases that... it isn't too much of a problem.  When I plan to be out longer, I will let some folks know.

There is much I could take.  Signal mirror, flashlight (though I always have a couple on me anymore, if just minor ones, a hat, bandana, and such.  I have a whole collection of functional tools, expendables, and clothes that might fit in.  I just don't know what is truly needed, minimally.  I don't know what extras might be good, or fun, to take.  I will simply have to get out and figure things out.  Eventually I am hoping to have a book on local flora, of the edible type.  No, as I suggested, I won't be munching my way up the mountain.  I will simply be espying possible food sources, testing them however I may, and learning.  I'll save eating for some rarefied necessity, even then with great caution and judicious consideration.  I would like to find both what is edible and what is definitely not edible, and start figuring out the differences, now.  Who knows, if some of it will grow around the house, that might not be all bad, if transplanting is possible.

The goal?  By the end of the summer, I hope to have traveled enough minor trails that I can hump the big one.  It's only, on a shorter run, seven to nine miles.  But that is a long haul for an old sick ogre.  There is no place, at the top, to camp.  It's pretty much a push on through, and it is quite a thing.  If I can do that, and can then get out during the winter to keep up some strength and more, stamina, snowshoeing, then next year, perhaps, I can take longer hikes along some of the more serious mountain trails, further into the interior.  But this trail that is my goal is about as serious of an incline and descent as anything I would face.  It is the test, but a shorter one.  Winter camping, and tracking, is actually the ultimate goal.  It's... why I moved here.  Dreams of winter camping.  But I have to be ready.  There is such a small margin of error in the mountains in the winter.  But... winter wind blowing on my face, snow everywhere, the scent of evergreens... a dream I can't leave as just that.

Good night.  

Haiku Monday - Trouble

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A newcomer is up with the contest.  The Lovely One, as she goes by, is up here.  I was in no condition, this weekend, to try to get going on that, but it is being held over.  Which means that I will be submitting.

Sometimes I just can't, especially on short notice.  The old mule and the bridge scenario.  But it is never what it seems.  If a mule won't go somewhere, it is because it believes it can't.  And no matter what you throw at it, that is less than the risk it sees.  And, so, I sat.  But I did let her know, and she has allowed me a path around, so I am about to take it.  She is suggesting to judge this weekend, but I will try to get her to, if she needs to judge this weekend, to not put it up until Monday, so as to restart next weeks contest back in date-stamp proper form.  Noobs!  Then again, I pretty fair well messed up my first contest better than she did!  Yum!  Grumpy, traditionalist old cusses, us haiku'ers tend to be, I tell ya.

Only two for judging, so...  But you know me.  I let them flow and pick later.  Three, four, five, nine, I never know.  Three, usually, just to get the juices flowing.  Though sometimes I bite my tongue at three or five.  If I can play.  Some themes, sometimes, just hit me in the quads.  Not to the left, not to the the right, but right in the middle.  Not this time.  Urhm, or in that way.  It's an unusual, foreign, topic, again.  But I will try.

Gun Safety Rules

she kissed me, twice

said something about love, respect-

it's ALWAYS loaded

Move Faster

the sun, and temp, down

out and about regardless

iced - no choice left

Shaving

straight razor shift

changing ways comes with a price

cheaper requires skill

A day of sun, run, and gun.

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All good though.  My cellphone bill was past due, so I fixed that, mostly.  I knew that was coming, but had to check on things.  I don't do business over the phone with someone I wouldn't talk to in person... or as a general rule.  Not when a better option is in the path of where I am going.  That tended, a few extra bullets were purchased.  Enough for the shoot today, and a few to stock.  I like to keep a couple of k rounds for handguns, four to six k for long guns.  No, I'm not there, in either case.  But I am working on things.

Shooting was much better today.  I was hitting, about, 40-50% at 30 yards, cans.  Woefully wretched, yet, but much better than just last time.  I doubt if I was hitting 10-20%.  Gosh that was ugly.  Another shoot, with my friend, next week.  And perhaps another just by myself, as I am out searching for trailheads and taking some preliminary, short, hikes.  When I do well, or as well as I do, I can hit in the 90% mark at that distance, and really on out to 40, and 50 yards.  At least with a .45.  I suspect I might be able to do just a bit better with a 9 mm.  And probably better still with a .22, to be quite honest.  I'm not all that bad of a shot, if not exemplary either.  Just... good enough.  As I said, my friend is better.  Gah!  Still, it's actually better, if not on the ego, to shoot with a better shot.  I actually think it drives me to improve.  And... through osmosis if nothing else... I think I do improve.

A meal was had, before heading out to the range.  Usually that would have really set me back.  Not today.  And, I was willing to let him shoot as long as he wished.  I did have to go take a seat in the rig.  I need to remember to take one of the heavier duty camp chairs I bought last year.  I'm simply not up to standing for hours.  I can walk, more easily, for longer than I can just stand.  And yet I like to stand for as long as I can, just sitting now and again.  My height and knees have always made just standing a bit of a pain, as with running.  Walking and swimming are just fine though.  I burned just a bit more today, but then I need to get sun ready.

I was impressed with what all I did get done, and how well I did it.  Satisfied.  I believe my friend was just a wee surprised that I actually showed up today.  This whole winter has been a bit rough, as far as promises have gone.  Simply, often, no matter what I had said, I could not deliver.  And, maybe, tomorrow generally, I will fall again.  But for now I am ready to do much more.  Not sure my home will be in better order, but I will get out more.  I need to hook up with some folk, along with this friend, who can handle colder weather, I think.

Tomorrow will be an off day.  Still, in the next few days I am hoping to pull a pack together, and get ready for hiking.  I won't go far off the trails, at least until I get outfitted with maps.  And, really, the way things are, I need a bigger map of the whole valley, then specific maps for little regions, then learn orientation and beginning learning the various peaks, at various angles, and get a general feel.  That won't come easily, cheaply, or without some hard lessons.  On the good side, where I am learning, mistakes are not catastrophic so long as mobility is not hampered.  And, when I begin going out for days, I will let someone know where I am headed, and possibly see about getting a ride, if need be, at the end of longer runs.  I might be dying, but I'm not going to just let it happen.  But... don't suggest what I am doing is healthy, or for my health, either.  Most of that talk is garbage.  Do something because you want to, or have an interest, not for these pseudo-pshycho-health things.  Shut it.  Don't go there.  Or I will remind you why you should have listened to those who warned you about trying to tinker with my train.  Shut it.

Later. 

Rescheduled.

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Okay, I had to reschedule the appointment.  No, no, I was up, ready to go, and would have been there on time, easily.  It's that something came up.  On top of that, I haven't been checking what they want checked.  I've finally gotten to the point where I have been actually taking the medicines, but not taking stats.  And, that being the whole reason for this appointment, and with what has come up, I decided to reschedule.  I had hoped to do it in a couple of weeks, but I couldn't remember when my trip is.  Yeah, yeah...  So it's a long reschedule.  It's all I can do, for now.  But at least, now, when I am going to miss, I call in.  That isn't optimal, in their view, just... better.  Much better.  No more red marks, just yellow, or green, in my file.  Or whatever.

It's cloudy today.  I am not sure my friend will want to go out.  I will call in half an hour.  I'll just tinker, like when you got ready for school, then class was called off for the morning hours due to weather?  Yeah, free time!  And, really?  I am pleased.  I got up, got ready, and made the decision and the call.  I was even looking forward to the trip.  But I don't want to waste that prep, and I do have something that came up.  If my friend doesn't want to get out today, I might fill my travel pack and go find a trail.  I could take the pistol and a box of ammunition and get some target practice in as well.  Maybe two boxes.  Hmm... I best stop at the store and pick up some ammunition.  It is plentiful now, but I have to keep up on my stocks, which for this caliber is rather low as is.  So... maybe a few extra boxes, on top of what I shoot.  Bleh.

The girls have been fed, twice already.  I thought I would be going.  And, actually, I will be, one way or the other.  What came up, while not minor, isn't going to take much time.  But it does demand attention.  I'm not exactly sure when I will be back to feed them, but they will get three feeds today, on top of the hard food.  I am just waiting on UPS, at least until about noon.  If the strop dressing arrives, I'll use it.  I may look for a lapping stone in town.  Thankfully, that doesn't have to be very high grit, so will be cheaper.  Probably.

Yep, something good is happening.  I'm still, mostly, living a null life.  Most of my time is spent... sitting.  The hope is that, as I get out, more of my time will be spent... walking.  I suppose that is an upgrade, though it does confuse me a bit.  If too, that isn't the final goal.  Being productive, even just hereabouts, if there is the hope for even a bit more.

Ah, my friend was proactive.  He called and, yep, he wants to get out.  I'll bring a box of .45 for his pistol, and get some 9 mm as well.  I'll be shooting as close as it takes to hit regularly, practice there until it's simple again, then move it on out.  Bleh...  Way out of practice.  When I get back I'll put my pack together for next week, today or tomorrow.  Still waiting on UPS, or noon, whichever comes first.  Later.

Slept like I earned it.

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While yesterday was a nothing day, it was designed as such by needs.  And, I have been a very good boy, of late.  Out and about, up and at it, doing what I can, then some, and planning more.  I didn't get to sleep until after midnight.  I was a bit nervous, but set the alarm for 8:00, with the notion that I could kick the alarm over to 9:00 if need be.  As is I woke, tenatively, at a half then quarter to 8:00 but decided 8:00 was a bit early.  So I just proactively reset the alarm to 9:00.  Woke just slightly after 8:00 anyway.  I was finished with sleep.

Browsing "the news" and blogs, first thing.  Leaving a comment here, chuckling there, a grimace or three to round it out, and finally a post.  A shower sounds good, in a moment or two.  The girls were fed first thing.  And I will take my medicines.  I forgot, for the first time since I willfully cracked down, medicine yesterday morning.  I didn't notice until bedtime, but I simply wasn't willing to take a double dose.  So I took bedtime medicines and grumbled all the way home... or some such.

So much going on, lots left to do, but I am slowing crawling out of the cave and getting to more.  I'm almost feeling it, spring.  It's creeping in.  Well, and a return of some health.  The combination is slightly titillating, like spring wine or that look a woman gets when she is suggesting what she was taught not to, usually without realizing it.  That, my friends, is a Freudian slip I can live with.  Never mind.

On to... something.  I suppose I've got just a bit more time to tinker.  I did get a notice that the sewing machine is definitely on it's way.  All good.  If the s-i-l doesn't teach, or find teachers for the girls, my mom will do that when she gets there.  I went with a sewing machine to give the girls something practical for their lives.  Women aren't taught... anything practical these days.  Do they even take cooking classes in school anymore?  If so, is it all boxed?  Bleh.  Most don't even know how to clean.  Messy little things, of little value to a husband and family all too often.  Just one skill, something they could even use to earn money on the side, legitimately.  Though, as most women, they will probably be relegated to the stacks of sheng nu, old maids, single secretaries, cat women, whatever the world is calling the growing numbers of useless women these days, wherever they are.  Still, I can try to give them some value.  VAT, value added talents.

Later.

Sometimes, I suppose.

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Hmm?

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Just... thinking.