.
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My days and nights have become unhappily mixed up. At least they are not twirling as well. By that, I mean my sleeping and waking hours are rather static. I go to sleep somewhere around 6:00 to 8:00 and wake somewhere between 13:00 and 14:30. It has pretty much been so since I got here, if I did initially overcome it to do finalizing business. And, as can be seen, I am not sleeping too much. If anything, I might be sleeping a little shy of what I need. Naps help with that, either those or simply resting before or after my sleep cycle. If I could just adjust that a bit I would be really happy. I am working on it. But the temperature really does dictate things, and that I cannot control well yet.
On to the main of the post. Since I cannot sleep at night, and often I cannot rest either, I try to do more than the minor Windows XP games, though they have their place as time eaters. I have been reviewing data regarding bows, black powder rifles, arrows, fishing, and such. These matters are rather more involved than one might think. Though too, at some point, one must just go do. With the natural limitation of money, time, and access, sometimes in combination, sometimes just the one thing or the other, I want to be sure about which project to tackle first, and that I have it covered as much as possible before doing. Fly fishing would probably be the least expensive, even with a fly tying kit, the fishing gear, some starter flies, and waders. Then would be a black powder rifle and kit, though it would be close between those two, price wise, while black powder shooting would take less time to learn well as much of my shooting skills and reloading knowledge (even as limited as that is at this point) would walk right in and fit right in with only a few differences to cover. Then bow hunting kit would be the most expensive, and to learn right it would be between fishing and black powder regarding their perspective learning curves. Actually, I think with waders, it would end up being black powder, fishing, then bow in expense from low to the high of archery. At least, that is how it looks to me, now.
So, I sit and study. I read here, look there, and try new search parameters for various topics within any of those fields. I stick with one of those areas at a time, and for hours until I have had enough. Utah's DNR has some information, as do many other online sources. I have a few offline sources as well. Some go so far, then ask for your credit card. Many, perhaps even most, are free. Sometimes I look into areas which might be a little off the track, as well. Tying flies is normal, but getting into lures is different and not really related to fly fishing, but I look. I often bookmark sites, even ones which might be a little obscure. Like a squirrel, hiding away my knowledge bundles, if too sometimes I have to sniff around should I wish to find them.
I had a cluster of subjects from Iowa, on the poison computer. Some of those I simply will not continue pursuing. Some, like photography, I need to get back to collecting. Many of those old sites were local, however, so I would have had to work with that anyway. Perhaps by Christmas, maybe Easter, I will have something going with that. I suspect I can, until I get my own place, simply have the pictures developed elsewhere and then scan them. I could always scan the color pictures to black and white to get you used to it. Ha! Technology! Retro when you want it.
I really need to get some laundry washed, finish cleaning, and return some stuff. Some of it I can do tonight, some of it must wait. Even the stuff I can do tonight might wait until tomorrow. Then again, I have been letting a number of things slide that I really should not. Nothing time sensitive, but some of the things are important none the less. On the good side, I have not just been sitting around either. If much of it has been fun stuff, I do not mind wearing myself out doing almost anything! It is so much better then sitting in a chair, in front of a computer, gathering dust and becoming older with nothing to show for it. So, I will get my butt in gear, do some things out of the apartment first and perhaps take a short drive, do a few tasks here when I get back, then see if I am still able to go fishing in the morning (and then try to stay up the day to reset my internal clock).
Oddly, this morning, in spite of the thermostats saying it is 76 F (my apartments extreme low but what I usually consider rather warm), I am cold, or at least rather cool. Weird.
Well, I have to go! Good night.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Today, a day like any other day recently.
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And, like any other day in the last month or so, today is a good one. Though I have not been out yet, I am getting ready to go. If I did not wake up until 14:00, I have been busy since that time. Besides, I only sleep about six hours here, with naps in the evening or late afternoon. My days and nights are mixed up, I am not sleeping long. And, quite often, I am doing something. I am becoming much more active and alive, interacting, deciding, thinking, wishing, hoping, and lots of actual doing of things. Action and decision making have been primary stumbling blocks, staying awake has been the actual biggest problem. Still somewhat tired, and often, but awake and going in spite of it.
Today I called and arranged the practicum aspect of the hunter safety course I must take. I then started the lessons. The rules state that we must take the quizzes, scoring 100%, print those out, and turn them in when we go for the shooting aspect of the class. They suggested 20 to 40 hours to be set asside to due the reading and quizzes. I must admit, it was slow going. It took me 3 hours. I have the quizzes printed and ready to go. I actually did need to read a bit about the bow section, the tree stand section, and something or other else. That is what was slow. Though I think I could have done the whole thing in another hour even with reading. I am not much of a hunter yet either, I guess I have just lived in places where all of this is discussed (and to a degree, joked about... such as when they say all firearms, bows, and other weapons should be separated from their perspective ammunition, each being locked). I knew that was the answer THEY wanted, I also know I sleep with a loaded .45 on my bed stand with one in the chamber of cours, a shotgun near my bed loaded with .00 buck again with one in the tube, and I will not change. I might unload the .22s, if I somehow forget to shoot all of a magazine or loaded a whole one and forgot to feed it. Oh well, things like that are chalked up to limp wristed bureaucrats and the feminists which have invaded God's country, a place really only for men. And, then it is laughed at as such. I suppose it, too, is the power hungry bureaucrats in brown hats and academia invasion too. Whatever, give them their answer and ignore. Just like with Mom, quite often.
Of course, that is a dangerous precedent to set. Asking for lies leads to no respect and a disbelief in the whole system. Something they should learn. From Santa Clause to the tooth fairy to unloading all guns, separating all guns from ammunition, and then locking everything in different and hidden containers. When people learn better, they become dubious of all tactics such as that. Hmm, that might be why I rarely eat vegetables. And it has not killed me yet.
I need to get shopping. More mini cds, at least enough to see if the camera is broken or if it really was the settings, stuff to clean the bathroom and a toilet brush, and take a few things back to some stores. No rest for the wicked and we are all wicked even at our best. So, right after a hefty 300 calorie dinner (how I long for the 3k beef meals!) and a shower, I must get going.
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And, like any other day in the last month or so, today is a good one. Though I have not been out yet, I am getting ready to go. If I did not wake up until 14:00, I have been busy since that time. Besides, I only sleep about six hours here, with naps in the evening or late afternoon. My days and nights are mixed up, I am not sleeping long. And, quite often, I am doing something. I am becoming much more active and alive, interacting, deciding, thinking, wishing, hoping, and lots of actual doing of things. Action and decision making have been primary stumbling blocks, staying awake has been the actual biggest problem. Still somewhat tired, and often, but awake and going in spite of it.
Today I called and arranged the practicum aspect of the hunter safety course I must take. I then started the lessons. The rules state that we must take the quizzes, scoring 100%, print those out, and turn them in when we go for the shooting aspect of the class. They suggested 20 to 40 hours to be set asside to due the reading and quizzes. I must admit, it was slow going. It took me 3 hours. I have the quizzes printed and ready to go. I actually did need to read a bit about the bow section, the tree stand section, and something or other else. That is what was slow. Though I think I could have done the whole thing in another hour even with reading. I am not much of a hunter yet either, I guess I have just lived in places where all of this is discussed (and to a degree, joked about... such as when they say all firearms, bows, and other weapons should be separated from their perspective ammunition, each being locked). I knew that was the answer THEY wanted, I also know I sleep with a loaded .45 on my bed stand with one in the chamber of cours, a shotgun near my bed loaded with .00 buck again with one in the tube, and I will not change. I might unload the .22s, if I somehow forget to shoot all of a magazine or loaded a whole one and forgot to feed it. Oh well, things like that are chalked up to limp wristed bureaucrats and the feminists which have invaded God's country, a place really only for men. And, then it is laughed at as such. I suppose it, too, is the power hungry bureaucrats in brown hats and academia invasion too. Whatever, give them their answer and ignore. Just like with Mom, quite often.
Of course, that is a dangerous precedent to set. Asking for lies leads to no respect and a disbelief in the whole system. Something they should learn. From Santa Clause to the tooth fairy to unloading all guns, separating all guns from ammunition, and then locking everything in different and hidden containers. When people learn better, they become dubious of all tactics such as that. Hmm, that might be why I rarely eat vegetables. And it has not killed me yet.
I need to get shopping. More mini cds, at least enough to see if the camera is broken or if it really was the settings, stuff to clean the bathroom and a toilet brush, and take a few things back to some stores. No rest for the wicked and we are all wicked even at our best. So, right after a hefty 300 calorie dinner (how I long for the 3k beef meals!) and a shower, I must get going.
The last of the photos which are good.
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I cannot sleep, it is night you know. Ackh! I went online to see about taking the hunter's safety course for Utah that way, but I must first sign up for the practical course (shooting, some more testing, and such), which I can only do during "office hours". Still, that will be more convenient than sitting in a class. And, I can do it at my pace. As I may have said, I have a hunter's certificate, which I believe would work here, but backtracking through my childhood to find the school where I obtained it, getting a copy, and such would take a good deal of time, effort, and might not work even then. This is the shortest and easiest way, plus my certificate turns into a hunting license (small game, which is fine by me, this year). No dice on that tonight though.
So, I started looking over the photographs I loaded onto this machine. There were two I had not put in that were goodd, and another of my Xterra. So, since I seem to have this picture to blog thing down, and I have gotten better and attempting to size the photographs, I thought I would put my hands to it and finish what I started. Here they are, if they probably end up above my typing! I will figure that out, too, in time. Perhaps.
The last picture is the view heading to the gravel pit, one of the shooting ranges we use. That mountain, or large hill depending on how you view things, reminds me of a headless sphinx or something. And though it is narrow, sort of, it is several miles long on the side view. I have learned to get out there easily and on my own. Actually, I had to get there on my own the second time I drove there. In spite of the numerous back roads and false ways, I made it flawlessly. Again, today, I got there without needing directions from my neighbor who went along. The next picture is of the mountain view coming back from that same shooting range, facing the opposite direction as I was when taking the first picture, and parallel to the long side of the first photograph. (that was just practice in describing position, scrub it from your mind if need be:P). And the first picture, of course, is of the little buggy that gets me where I am going. I have already done more off-roading, if it is still of the simpler variety, in a month here than I have since I purchased the first Xterra, 3 years ago. Nice:)
(sorry if I seem to get my pictures messed up a bit, Blogger adds them the opposite way in which I put them in. I am just learning, folks. Give the poor gimp some space!)
Well, that is it for pictures. If I can get more and the proper film, I will try to find more views to offer you all. If nothing else, you cannot say I am not trying, and doing more than I ever thought I could. This time without the little magic pills the doc likes to hand out. I still wonder, what would happen if I took the blue pill now? Then again, I might make more money selling plasma, and that might help more than the blue pill? Decisions, decisions, decisions.
*blink*
*poof*
Friday, July 31, 2009
Some pictures. More to come.
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I sorted the few pictures I took. Some good, a few bad. The "film" I purchased, though it looks identical to what I need, is not being accepted by my camera. Argh! I will have to take it back and look for what I need. Online is no problem, I think. But shop by shop, it could be an arduous task. Why oh why have they created so much selection that one cannot even buy what one is buying? How many exactly the same size and shape of a thing do we need (to confuse us)? And why, when they make something, do they then make it almost impossible to buy the parts and expendables for it only a few years after selling it? *sigh* And, of course, I support it to a degree. That is, as a fact, one of the strengths and weaknesses of capitalism. For good or bad, I am signed on. :p Oh, and technology and it's advances play their parts as well, which I have also signed on to, mostly.
Here they are:
Well, they were meant to be here, right here where I am typing. But no, Blogger has it's own ideas I guess. Sorry about the sizing, all I have to work with at the moment is Microsoft's Paint. I will try to work on that. But, all those mountains you see are just an idea of the area. I am ringed by that in all directions, with valleys, canyons, and passes leading in, out, or away. Many of those pictures were taken from near the center flat desert cum farmland of the mountain areas. I tried to show you, in the third picture, about where I live (with a large grain of salt, or give and take). If you can get the picture and enlarge it enough, you will see a red rounded rectangle around the area I am in. I am actually quite sure that is the area, I am just not sure how close or far I am from any red borders.
If anyone knows of a good photo editing program which is inexpensive or (even better) free, let me know. I did a quick search and found many. After having one machine bugged by a bad download, I am not interested in repeating that. Uploading the pictures, it turns out, was a breeze. Sizing and such, however, has been a harrowing experience. Uhrm, perhaps frustrating and impossible come to mind more than harrowing. But you got the point, right?
Oh, the top two are mountain ranges somewhere out my door, the next two are of Logan with the third one having the red rectangle and the fourth is just a general view of Logan from afar (a twin of the third minus the rectangle and more centered on the main mountain). Mountains, Gandolf, I want to see mountains! "...and I mean not to return"... or, something like that.
There it is, so far. I really have to learn my camera a bit better and find editing software. Ackh.
Good night, Gracey, wherever you are.
Hotter but not?
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Today was hotter, or so they say. It was the same place, same time, hotter temperature, and... cooler? I am not sure what gives, but that was the way of it. My neighbor is still tinkering with his pistol, getting parts, and trying to get the machine to work as he would like it. I bought some more .45 ammunition. I gave my neighbor a couple of boxes, shot a box, and bought two more for storage. I think I have 5oo or 6oo rounds now. My goal is 4k rounds. Back to the heat. At the end of the shoot, we were both a bit hot, tired, and thirsty, but not like the last time out.
After I ran through a couple of boxes of ammunition, I put my pistol away and was going to watch my neighbor shoot. He would have none of it, so he got out his .38/.357 and some ammunition he loaded and put it in my hand. Today we had some things to shoot at, so I could really tell both how I was shooting and how the revolver was shooting, within my capacity of course. Having never shot a revolver, let alone one with a 2" barrel (or less), I was not expecting much. I figured, at 30 yards, I would hit 1 in 5. I could not miss at that range, with any kind of aim. Even quick fire was quite accurate. I am chalking this up to the gun, if I am quite pleased. I would not have believed I could consistently hit a 3" or less target with such a gun. I thought people were fibbing. My XD, sure. My Ruger 22/45, of course. But a short barreled revolver?
Now, with careful aim, I can hit 50 yards and more with my Ruger. She is accurate and precise. I do have to raise the aim a bit, as she feeds standard .22 ammunition best. But, with a little practice, I can do amazing things with that pistol. When I get to go small game hunting, I will take both the .22 rifle and pistol. The .22 pistol for game within 40 yards, the rifle for anything beyond that. The .45 is merely self-defense and part of home defense, along with the shotgun loaded with double ought buckshot. For my other hunting needs, I will have to enlarge my armory. And, in time, I would sure enjoy a .38/.357, now that I have had some hands on. It would be a very compact, discreet, yet powerful carry arm, and a reliable home defense arm for me and even a wife's use, should a woman sneak up on me and tame me.
I still cannot believe that little Taurus .38/.357 though. I think my neighbor gives me the guns to shoot because he wants to see how well the gun does shoot. Shooting himself, I think he cannot always tell how well he or it is shooting. But watching someone shooting one of his pieces helps. I think too, he thinks I shoot well enough to bother watching. And, by the way, whether I was shooting two handed or off-hand, it didn't matter that much. The gun just would not miss! I have access to or own some very good guns. The stand did not work, again, today. I was going to glue certain parts of it, but brought the pvc glue into the cave for fear of strange reactions should it get to hot in the Xterra and then I forgot to take it with. As well, I have not bought softer wood yet either, so the staples do not hold all that well. Pop bottles, crushed cans, and the like were the target fodder. I really want to get the stand up so we can get the guns sighted in, right on the money, for sure. Seeing the spread, any high low left or right will help as well. Though, I think the .38/.357, my XD, my Ruger, and his 92 short Barretta are all right on the money already, leaving only his .45 to be understood that way. But, just for kicks, I would really like to see it and verify.
Okay, as per marching orders, I am going to try to get the few pictures I have onto this machine tonight. If I do so, and they are any good at all, I will post a few or at least try to figure that out. I purchased more CDs for the camera (it's version of film). So, there may be more pictures to come. If I can figure these intermediate steps out. Or I should say, when I figure these steps out. I know SOME people will not let me rest on my laurels (I did move, after all). I will get to that, you enjoy your evening, or morning, or... whatever. As Arnold, back when he was famous in a good way once said, "I'll be Bach!". I still do not understand that, he does not even talk well, how could he ever compose?
Hasta la vista, baby.
.
Today was hotter, or so they say. It was the same place, same time, hotter temperature, and... cooler? I am not sure what gives, but that was the way of it. My neighbor is still tinkering with his pistol, getting parts, and trying to get the machine to work as he would like it. I bought some more .45 ammunition. I gave my neighbor a couple of boxes, shot a box, and bought two more for storage. I think I have 5oo or 6oo rounds now. My goal is 4k rounds. Back to the heat. At the end of the shoot, we were both a bit hot, tired, and thirsty, but not like the last time out.
After I ran through a couple of boxes of ammunition, I put my pistol away and was going to watch my neighbor shoot. He would have none of it, so he got out his .38/.357 and some ammunition he loaded and put it in my hand. Today we had some things to shoot at, so I could really tell both how I was shooting and how the revolver was shooting, within my capacity of course. Having never shot a revolver, let alone one with a 2" barrel (or less), I was not expecting much. I figured, at 30 yards, I would hit 1 in 5. I could not miss at that range, with any kind of aim. Even quick fire was quite accurate. I am chalking this up to the gun, if I am quite pleased. I would not have believed I could consistently hit a 3" or less target with such a gun. I thought people were fibbing. My XD, sure. My Ruger 22/45, of course. But a short barreled revolver?
Now, with careful aim, I can hit 50 yards and more with my Ruger. She is accurate and precise. I do have to raise the aim a bit, as she feeds standard .22 ammunition best. But, with a little practice, I can do amazing things with that pistol. When I get to go small game hunting, I will take both the .22 rifle and pistol. The .22 pistol for game within 40 yards, the rifle for anything beyond that. The .45 is merely self-defense and part of home defense, along with the shotgun loaded with double ought buckshot. For my other hunting needs, I will have to enlarge my armory. And, in time, I would sure enjoy a .38/.357, now that I have had some hands on. It would be a very compact, discreet, yet powerful carry arm, and a reliable home defense arm for me and even a wife's use, should a woman sneak up on me and tame me.
I still cannot believe that little Taurus .38/.357 though. I think my neighbor gives me the guns to shoot because he wants to see how well the gun does shoot. Shooting himself, I think he cannot always tell how well he or it is shooting. But watching someone shooting one of his pieces helps. I think too, he thinks I shoot well enough to bother watching. And, by the way, whether I was shooting two handed or off-hand, it didn't matter that much. The gun just would not miss! I have access to or own some very good guns. The stand did not work, again, today. I was going to glue certain parts of it, but brought the pvc glue into the cave for fear of strange reactions should it get to hot in the Xterra and then I forgot to take it with. As well, I have not bought softer wood yet either, so the staples do not hold all that well. Pop bottles, crushed cans, and the like were the target fodder. I really want to get the stand up so we can get the guns sighted in, right on the money, for sure. Seeing the spread, any high low left or right will help as well. Though, I think the .38/.357, my XD, my Ruger, and his 92 short Barretta are all right on the money already, leaving only his .45 to be understood that way. But, just for kicks, I would really like to see it and verify.
Okay, as per marching orders, I am going to try to get the few pictures I have onto this machine tonight. If I do so, and they are any good at all, I will post a few or at least try to figure that out. I purchased more CDs for the camera (it's version of film). So, there may be more pictures to come. If I can figure these intermediate steps out. Or I should say, when I figure these steps out. I know SOME people will not let me rest on my laurels (I did move, after all). I will get to that, you enjoy your evening, or morning, or... whatever. As Arnold, back when he was famous in a good way once said, "I'll be Bach!". I still do not understand that, he does not even talk well, how could he ever compose?
Hasta la vista, baby.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Hot is hot.
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Even when I can get the apartment down to 76 F, the lowest I have been able to get it, it is simply too warm to allow me to sleep well. I could not get to sleep last night to save my soul. And I was tired. I finally found sleep at about 7:00 or 8:00, exhausted and beyond being bothered by the heat. My sleep is often fitfull, rolling around trying to find a cooler position. The A/C is coming and will be here between tomorrow and a week from tomorrow. It will be greatly appreciated. To be honest though, I doubt if I will keep the day time temps any cooler than 76 F. That seems to get me up and going, when I can be awake.
I had hoped to go fishing this morning. With the lack of sleep, that was not possible. I did go out shooting this afternoon. My neighbor tinkers with his pistol, his .45 anyway, trying to get the best out of it that he can. It was a whole bought gun but he has tuned it and has turned it into a kit gun. Only a few basic parts from the original remain, so far. It needs a little tuning yet, to accurize it, but it is coming along.
I bought the right staples today, for my target. The wood, however, is a little hard. With any wind, it wants to fall apart. I will get the glue on most of the parts, and with softer wood as well, I think it will work perfectly well. With the wind and hard wood, the stand kept falling apart today. I was finally able to get it to stand, when the wind relaxed a bit, and we were able to get use it for a while. My .22 pistol is a little darling. At 25 yards, I only missed the head (on a man target) about 4 out of 30 shots. Most were in the X-ring. The missed shots were in the speed shooting. When I take a second to aim, it simply does not miss. Bit by bit, my little schemes are falling into place. Next time I want to place it at 50 or 100 yards and see how my rifle does. I really need a spotting scope though, for that, and a tape measure.
No fishing was attempted today. It seemed quite hot, hotter than usual, today. The forecast is for hotter weather yet. I will have to start going in the early hours or in the later afternoon. It is just too hot to be out doing anything. My guess is the cooling trend for August will be a negative one. Or, to put it more directly, August will be blazing hot compared to this uncomfortable heat we have now.
I did take some pictures with my digital camera. I will see if they are any good, on this machine, when I figure out how to transfer them the easiest. If they are decent, I will put them up. I cannot wait to show you my new valley and the mountains around them. Though it is a big valley, 30 to 40 miles north to south, and probably 15 to 20 miles wide, it truly is ringed by mountains, as if some giant fish is about to take the shiny city lure, or several of them. One of the pictures will sort of show you how close I am to the mountains and Logan Valley and Green Canyon. Maybe that should be Logan Canyon too, I will figure it out.
Little else beside the shooting has happened today. Laundry needs washed, the cave needs a little more tidying, and though sorted mostly, a couple of items need to be bought in order to stash the last of the things I brought from the storage unit. Then I can go get more stuff to sort through, though little else will be staying here at the cave. There simply is no more room unless I become very creative. It could happen.
I did hear from a woman who was trying to have me house sit for her and her husband. I indicated that I am here for a year contract, but if the price is right, I would strongly consider figuring out a move. She even indicated that, should a small window of overlap between when her and her husband leave and when I am out of an apartment, we might be able to figure that out. Though this apartment is okay, I would much rather live in my own little place. Someplace cooler and more private and with a garage. I suppose I would just have to phone over to my new friend and pick him up for shooting, fishing, and to get him to the store from time to time. Or, he could stop by on his bike from time to time. Probably both. It is a bit longer of a walk to school, and church, but not that much further. I do not know the costs though. Until I do, I cannot be sure. But if she was going to have grad students stay if I could not, I do not think it would be too much, probably.
More decisions and complications every day. But that seems to be what an active, self-interested, money minded, and directed aspect of life is about. From people, to animals, to fish, everyone is looking for that little niche that they prefer, that they can afford, and which lifts their status that little bit. Though often one takes too much of a bite or pushes too far into the wrong territory without some thinking, sometimes in spite of thinking or even because of it. Life, it seems, is a game of chance in some areas.
I have been looking at a number of hunting devices. I know I want a rifle. Initially I just want a simple hunting rifle, chambered in the .308, along with a good scope. I would also like to have a .50 caliber black powder. And, in no particular order at this time for certain, I would like a bow. Why so many weapons? There are three seasons for deer, sometimes four. If you do not take a deer in one of them, you might have another chance or three. And, as a dedicated hunter, you are guaranteed a license for all three seasons, with the caveats involved with that particular license. As well, having those three to practice with will get me up and into the hunting and shooting community hereabouts in ways that only one or two of them could not. All must wait, however, until money begins trickling back in, old scores are settled, and newer expenses are dealt with. I cannot hunt this year, in any case, so there is no real rush as long as I get what of them I will try to use next year to practice with before I need to hunt. January might be when I get the first of them. Next will be a S & W .500 magnum. There are bears here, and 5 have already been shot for being aggressive.
Before I go too far into the woods, I want a gun I feel confident with and which will put down a bear or a bobcat. Though I think my .45 would do fine on the bobcats, I think it would just anger a bear. The bears around here are black bears, so not quite as wild and wicked as browns or polar bears. They are about my size to, weighing only about 50 pounds more. But they are all animal. Even if I could take one with a knife, I would pay a hefty price. After that, I will feel a little more sure about going off into the wild for bits at a time. I suppose it is the practicality of living wild.
Finally, I have cooled down a bit from the day. I will tinker with the camera and this machine. Tinker on some games if that gets done or I get frustrated, and then try to sleep. I really want to get out fishing early again, soon!
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Even when I can get the apartment down to 76 F, the lowest I have been able to get it, it is simply too warm to allow me to sleep well. I could not get to sleep last night to save my soul. And I was tired. I finally found sleep at about 7:00 or 8:00, exhausted and beyond being bothered by the heat. My sleep is often fitfull, rolling around trying to find a cooler position. The A/C is coming and will be here between tomorrow and a week from tomorrow. It will be greatly appreciated. To be honest though, I doubt if I will keep the day time temps any cooler than 76 F. That seems to get me up and going, when I can be awake.
I had hoped to go fishing this morning. With the lack of sleep, that was not possible. I did go out shooting this afternoon. My neighbor tinkers with his pistol, his .45 anyway, trying to get the best out of it that he can. It was a whole bought gun but he has tuned it and has turned it into a kit gun. Only a few basic parts from the original remain, so far. It needs a little tuning yet, to accurize it, but it is coming along.
I bought the right staples today, for my target. The wood, however, is a little hard. With any wind, it wants to fall apart. I will get the glue on most of the parts, and with softer wood as well, I think it will work perfectly well. With the wind and hard wood, the stand kept falling apart today. I was finally able to get it to stand, when the wind relaxed a bit, and we were able to get use it for a while. My .22 pistol is a little darling. At 25 yards, I only missed the head (on a man target) about 4 out of 30 shots. Most were in the X-ring. The missed shots were in the speed shooting. When I take a second to aim, it simply does not miss. Bit by bit, my little schemes are falling into place. Next time I want to place it at 50 or 100 yards and see how my rifle does. I really need a spotting scope though, for that, and a tape measure.
No fishing was attempted today. It seemed quite hot, hotter than usual, today. The forecast is for hotter weather yet. I will have to start going in the early hours or in the later afternoon. It is just too hot to be out doing anything. My guess is the cooling trend for August will be a negative one. Or, to put it more directly, August will be blazing hot compared to this uncomfortable heat we have now.
I did take some pictures with my digital camera. I will see if they are any good, on this machine, when I figure out how to transfer them the easiest. If they are decent, I will put them up. I cannot wait to show you my new valley and the mountains around them. Though it is a big valley, 30 to 40 miles north to south, and probably 15 to 20 miles wide, it truly is ringed by mountains, as if some giant fish is about to take the shiny city lure, or several of them. One of the pictures will sort of show you how close I am to the mountains and Logan Valley and Green Canyon. Maybe that should be Logan Canyon too, I will figure it out.
Little else beside the shooting has happened today. Laundry needs washed, the cave needs a little more tidying, and though sorted mostly, a couple of items need to be bought in order to stash the last of the things I brought from the storage unit. Then I can go get more stuff to sort through, though little else will be staying here at the cave. There simply is no more room unless I become very creative. It could happen.
I did hear from a woman who was trying to have me house sit for her and her husband. I indicated that I am here for a year contract, but if the price is right, I would strongly consider figuring out a move. She even indicated that, should a small window of overlap between when her and her husband leave and when I am out of an apartment, we might be able to figure that out. Though this apartment is okay, I would much rather live in my own little place. Someplace cooler and more private and with a garage. I suppose I would just have to phone over to my new friend and pick him up for shooting, fishing, and to get him to the store from time to time. Or, he could stop by on his bike from time to time. Probably both. It is a bit longer of a walk to school, and church, but not that much further. I do not know the costs though. Until I do, I cannot be sure. But if she was going to have grad students stay if I could not, I do not think it would be too much, probably.
More decisions and complications every day. But that seems to be what an active, self-interested, money minded, and directed aspect of life is about. From people, to animals, to fish, everyone is looking for that little niche that they prefer, that they can afford, and which lifts their status that little bit. Though often one takes too much of a bite or pushes too far into the wrong territory without some thinking, sometimes in spite of thinking or even because of it. Life, it seems, is a game of chance in some areas.
I have been looking at a number of hunting devices. I know I want a rifle. Initially I just want a simple hunting rifle, chambered in the .308, along with a good scope. I would also like to have a .50 caliber black powder. And, in no particular order at this time for certain, I would like a bow. Why so many weapons? There are three seasons for deer, sometimes four. If you do not take a deer in one of them, you might have another chance or three. And, as a dedicated hunter, you are guaranteed a license for all three seasons, with the caveats involved with that particular license. As well, having those three to practice with will get me up and into the hunting and shooting community hereabouts in ways that only one or two of them could not. All must wait, however, until money begins trickling back in, old scores are settled, and newer expenses are dealt with. I cannot hunt this year, in any case, so there is no real rush as long as I get what of them I will try to use next year to practice with before I need to hunt. January might be when I get the first of them. Next will be a S & W .500 magnum. There are bears here, and 5 have already been shot for being aggressive.
Before I go too far into the woods, I want a gun I feel confident with and which will put down a bear or a bobcat. Though I think my .45 would do fine on the bobcats, I think it would just anger a bear. The bears around here are black bears, so not quite as wild and wicked as browns or polar bears. They are about my size to, weighing only about 50 pounds more. But they are all animal. Even if I could take one with a knife, I would pay a hefty price. After that, I will feel a little more sure about going off into the wild for bits at a time. I suppose it is the practicality of living wild.
Finally, I have cooled down a bit from the day. I will tinker with the camera and this machine. Tinker on some games if that gets done or I get frustrated, and then try to sleep. I really want to get out fishing early again, soon!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A slow day.
.
.
I did not go to bed until 4:00. I slept well. I finally woke at a little past 14:00 I think. The neighbor was ringing the doorbell incessantly, just like my lady friend used to do, and with both, for good reason. I can be difficult to roust. A single bell, every few seconds, over even an extended period may not move me to awaken. I have, when I can, the sleep of the dead. I am a ghost, after all. In any case, I spoke a bit with him at the door, still in what passes for my pajamas. It was getting later, he reminded me, and he hoped I could get ready to drive him to the store soon.
Sure enough, I was up and at it... in 45 minutes, or was it an hour and a half. Who knows. I am still not quite awake. I have been pushing it, given the heat and my conditions. And, most likely, I will continue to do so. However, once in a while I will need a slow, closed, quiet day to reflect, rest up, and take stock. Today is as close to one of those days as I will get for a while, or have had in a while. Even so, it is not a complete shut down day. I started sorting some of the things I brought back from the storage unit, and today I will finish that. As well, I need to tidy up the place. And, I did go to the store, buying some things I needed while taking my neighbor for his shopping.
But it will be good to, for the most part, stay inside for the day. I like my cave, even when it is hot. Snails have their shells, slugs too, crayfish carry theirs. Every creature out their knows they need a little spot to be quiet and alone, and they can learn to love these places. I am no different. It is just that in excess, being alone, being in solitude, being quiet, that these things are death. Beyond the need for the social, there is a need for fresh air, green things in their natural setting, and sunshine. Yes, I said it. Even vampires, us real ones, need a little sun.
My body is becoming stronger, if it is yet a bit weak. My skin needs less moisturizing. My skin is becoming stronger, and browner, to handle all the sunshine it has been getting. If truth be told, I brown in a tenth the time, seemingly, that a normal person will. I am, to say the least, light sensitive. My ability to do things in duration has taken a mult-fold multiple increase because of the move as well. But just being out shooting, standing and walking, hold the gun for hours, and in the heat, has developed some stamina. If it is weak on the normality scale, it is nearing normalcy and could surpass it. Standing is brutal, for long periods, even an hour or two, at this point. Part of that, a large part maybe, is my weight. The other part is that my feet are odd, hammer toes and such. I am changing, in all manner of ways. All for the good. But I do need some rest.
It is my hope that I will wake early and go fishing again tomorrow morning. I will not swear to it, I just have a feeling. As well, tomorrow afternoon I will probably go out with my neighbor and shoot and fish a bit more, if not I may go myself. I think he is getting stronger too. He is very thin, though, so I do not know how much he will be able to take. With me as a neighbor, however, he will not stay thin for long. I doubt if he will get fat, exactly, but I have a tendency to put meat on bones just by my proximity and my willingness to share food as a grace I extend to even those I do not necessarily like, so long as they are civil. Good food is just something I think that is too special to horde. Let them eat cake (and roast, chops, bacon, steak, stew, breads, juices, milk, beer, and... let me see, what else do I have in my larder...). I hate people who are skinny by accident or sad fate, but if they really want to be skinny, they ought to stay away from me at meal time. I will story tell them into an extra ten pounds. Then again, as the economy is going, that extra ten pounds on smaller people will make for better fixins if it comes to cannibalism. *grins*
I had two credit cards when I started my move. The big one, the one I put the U-haul truck and gas on, has rescinded my credit line. Thankfully after I got those bills on it. It was a Chase card. They picked a really rotten time to do that. From some of things I am hearing, they are in such wretched financial shape, they really ought to be careful with that. They make much better money from their credit cards then they can afford to lose. I will never do business with them again for this betrayal. A month from now, I would not have cared as much. But right when I need it for a few things, and without notice in part because I was in the MIDDLE OF A MOVE it is definitely viewed as a betrayal of trust. They had to know I was moving, considering that I had a one way high tag U-haul listed and changed my address. A rotten company and bad business practices. I hope they go bankrupt and fire everyone, and without golden parachutes. Well, I can hope.
I am treated very will in this town, by the way. If too, people stand back a bit. I am not sure if they know how to take me. Maybe it is just my size, but I do not think so. This small town gets to know new people, very quickly, inside and out. It is, often, the part of small towns I despise. But here, I think I like it. This is one town I would rather be know in, and to have a little spot in. And, unlike Iowa City or Coralville, I will change my habits to fit in more than I will ever try to change the town. Well, except for the liberal aspects here.
The city just tried to over-ride state laws on handguns. The state has made it clear that the state, not cities, has the final say on all gun measures. This city, being a clown college town, has sent something up to the state asking for power. I hope and pray the state hammers this town without mercy on that. One can, in this state and city, even carry concealed (with a permit of course) on campus! I have some notion that there will never be 38 people shot here by one gunman, no matter how many guns he has. It is not just the guns, it is that these people are not just targets. Even without guns they would fight back, at least the ones from around here. As humble and hardworking as they are, they are not cowards. They will not just sit back and accept evil unto their deaths. Good people here. I hope to become one of them.
Enough. I have things to do, if no place to go (by choice, today). Have a good day.
.
I did not go to bed until 4:00. I slept well. I finally woke at a little past 14:00 I think. The neighbor was ringing the doorbell incessantly, just like my lady friend used to do, and with both, for good reason. I can be difficult to roust. A single bell, every few seconds, over even an extended period may not move me to awaken. I have, when I can, the sleep of the dead. I am a ghost, after all. In any case, I spoke a bit with him at the door, still in what passes for my pajamas. It was getting later, he reminded me, and he hoped I could get ready to drive him to the store soon.
Sure enough, I was up and at it... in 45 minutes, or was it an hour and a half. Who knows. I am still not quite awake. I have been pushing it, given the heat and my conditions. And, most likely, I will continue to do so. However, once in a while I will need a slow, closed, quiet day to reflect, rest up, and take stock. Today is as close to one of those days as I will get for a while, or have had in a while. Even so, it is not a complete shut down day. I started sorting some of the things I brought back from the storage unit, and today I will finish that. As well, I need to tidy up the place. And, I did go to the store, buying some things I needed while taking my neighbor for his shopping.
But it will be good to, for the most part, stay inside for the day. I like my cave, even when it is hot. Snails have their shells, slugs too, crayfish carry theirs. Every creature out their knows they need a little spot to be quiet and alone, and they can learn to love these places. I am no different. It is just that in excess, being alone, being in solitude, being quiet, that these things are death. Beyond the need for the social, there is a need for fresh air, green things in their natural setting, and sunshine. Yes, I said it. Even vampires, us real ones, need a little sun.
My body is becoming stronger, if it is yet a bit weak. My skin needs less moisturizing. My skin is becoming stronger, and browner, to handle all the sunshine it has been getting. If truth be told, I brown in a tenth the time, seemingly, that a normal person will. I am, to say the least, light sensitive. My ability to do things in duration has taken a mult-fold multiple increase because of the move as well. But just being out shooting, standing and walking, hold the gun for hours, and in the heat, has developed some stamina. If it is weak on the normality scale, it is nearing normalcy and could surpass it. Standing is brutal, for long periods, even an hour or two, at this point. Part of that, a large part maybe, is my weight. The other part is that my feet are odd, hammer toes and such. I am changing, in all manner of ways. All for the good. But I do need some rest.
It is my hope that I will wake early and go fishing again tomorrow morning. I will not swear to it, I just have a feeling. As well, tomorrow afternoon I will probably go out with my neighbor and shoot and fish a bit more, if not I may go myself. I think he is getting stronger too. He is very thin, though, so I do not know how much he will be able to take. With me as a neighbor, however, he will not stay thin for long. I doubt if he will get fat, exactly, but I have a tendency to put meat on bones just by my proximity and my willingness to share food as a grace I extend to even those I do not necessarily like, so long as they are civil. Good food is just something I think that is too special to horde. Let them eat cake (and roast, chops, bacon, steak, stew, breads, juices, milk, beer, and... let me see, what else do I have in my larder...). I hate people who are skinny by accident or sad fate, but if they really want to be skinny, they ought to stay away from me at meal time. I will story tell them into an extra ten pounds. Then again, as the economy is going, that extra ten pounds on smaller people will make for better fixins if it comes to cannibalism. *grins*
I had two credit cards when I started my move. The big one, the one I put the U-haul truck and gas on, has rescinded my credit line. Thankfully after I got those bills on it. It was a Chase card. They picked a really rotten time to do that. From some of things I am hearing, they are in such wretched financial shape, they really ought to be careful with that. They make much better money from their credit cards then they can afford to lose. I will never do business with them again for this betrayal. A month from now, I would not have cared as much. But right when I need it for a few things, and without notice in part because I was in the MIDDLE OF A MOVE it is definitely viewed as a betrayal of trust. They had to know I was moving, considering that I had a one way high tag U-haul listed and changed my address. A rotten company and bad business practices. I hope they go bankrupt and fire everyone, and without golden parachutes. Well, I can hope.
I am treated very will in this town, by the way. If too, people stand back a bit. I am not sure if they know how to take me. Maybe it is just my size, but I do not think so. This small town gets to know new people, very quickly, inside and out. It is, often, the part of small towns I despise. But here, I think I like it. This is one town I would rather be know in, and to have a little spot in. And, unlike Iowa City or Coralville, I will change my habits to fit in more than I will ever try to change the town. Well, except for the liberal aspects here.
The city just tried to over-ride state laws on handguns. The state has made it clear that the state, not cities, has the final say on all gun measures. This city, being a clown college town, has sent something up to the state asking for power. I hope and pray the state hammers this town without mercy on that. One can, in this state and city, even carry concealed (with a permit of course) on campus! I have some notion that there will never be 38 people shot here by one gunman, no matter how many guns he has. It is not just the guns, it is that these people are not just targets. Even without guns they would fight back, at least the ones from around here. As humble and hardworking as they are, they are not cowards. They will not just sit back and accept evil unto their deaths. Good people here. I hope to become one of them.
Enough. I have things to do, if no place to go (by choice, today). Have a good day.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A well needed nap, then on with the rest of the day.
.
.
As I said, I had a nice nap. I actually rested well for about 2 hours, slept some of it. Then I got up, woke up a bit, then went to see what my neighbor was doing. He was rather ready to go. He took his two pistols, and I took my .22's. First though, I stopped at a hardware store and bought what I needed for the target stand. I got everything right, except the right sized staples. Well, next time. I have not yet glued the pvc piping together, I want to do that in such a way that I can easily haul it. It will fit, full size, in my Xterra but it may not always be going in my Xterra. And, if I have two, it might get crowded even in my Xterra, or within my standards anyway.
So we plinked instead of getting the pistols and rifle targeted. We saw a few ground squirrels, but with his 9mm and his .45, and given the distance, all we did was dust them. One of them sat there staring at us for the longest time. It must have thought we were lighting firecrackers and a dust fairy was nearby! He finally got bored and left. Doh!
We checked the various fishing holes on the way back. All of them were quite full. We did finally stop at the last one. In spite of all the fishers, I decided to toss a few out. My neighbor was tired, so he merely watched, suggesting a change of lure from time to time, but otherwise just enjoying being out of doors. I did get an albino trout to follow one of my lures almost to the bank but, and again, no bite. They were curious that once, then not. The waters right here are so over-fished that the fish are onto it. Who knows how many times they have been caught and released. I would guess though, that two or three days of light fishing, and they might be more eager for another chance at catch and release. If they are small enough, they will get their way.
I do not know if I will make it up this coming morning. But if I do wake up in the early hours, I might head back out again. Seeing the sun come up, feeling the cool of the night mountain air, and being alone with my pole, a granola bar as an eventual breakfast, a number of lures to choose from (and bait and bobber if I remember the bait some time soon!), while knowing I might have a chance at a fine lunch will keep me going.
I had a long and productive day, if I did need a nap. Given the heat, I really am doing quite well. If I can extend this, I really have a chance. If I can lose 20 more pounds, I will be well on my way to solving some of my health issues and getting back into shape. A piece at a time. It really is beginning to click for me. Oh, as a gift to myself should I lose 20 more pounds, I will buy a bike and begin using that for my local travel. The roads here are luxuriously wide, with the only busy road to cross being Main Street. The rest of the streets are like something from a idyllic little town, with rare cars, lots of other bikers, pedestrians, and such. I can see how Logan made the top 5 national list as being one of the most relaxing cities to live in. It is idyllic.
I do not know how to relax. I either go until I fall down or I simply fall down. I am hoping I can bridge that gap, find a medium between those for full time activation, and learn to live a more modest life. Busy always but never in such a rush I do not know what I am doing. I believe that is as much state of mind as it is a state of flesh. Both are required, and I am beginning to believe I can read it. I really am beginning to think I can find that. No, never will I find perfection, here or anywhere. But I think I can get closer here than there, there, or over there.
I will have to get some "film" for my camera and get some shots online. I charged it enough to take pictures of fish, should I have been successful, but now I am fully charging it. The "film" I need are those mini-CD's. A handful of those and I will be able to begin showing you the valleys and mountains within which my cave is nestled. Perhaps I will be able to show some fish too. Then there are the little things I am doing or making, like my target stand and such of which I can take a picture. Who knows, maybe some of the things I am doing or trying to do might help you out. Crazier things have happened.
It has been a long day. Up at 6:00, doing the wake up thing, a couple of hours at the storage unit sorting and restacking, a quick nap, then about 7 hours out in the boonies shooting and fishing. I will stay up a few more hours in order to come down off the high. Tomorrow I will be giving my neighbor a lift to the store. He usually takes his bike, but I think I have finally started wearing him out. So, he asked for a ride to pick up some of the bigger items which give him trouble with his bike and bus system. I then need to figure out what all I have from the storage unit and how to manage it, use the vacuum and otherwise tidy up the cave, and then later in the week I will go back for boxes which I want to sort and repack. Not bad for almost having slipped into lethargy again and so recently.
Good night.
.
As I said, I had a nice nap. I actually rested well for about 2 hours, slept some of it. Then I got up, woke up a bit, then went to see what my neighbor was doing. He was rather ready to go. He took his two pistols, and I took my .22's. First though, I stopped at a hardware store and bought what I needed for the target stand. I got everything right, except the right sized staples. Well, next time. I have not yet glued the pvc piping together, I want to do that in such a way that I can easily haul it. It will fit, full size, in my Xterra but it may not always be going in my Xterra. And, if I have two, it might get crowded even in my Xterra, or within my standards anyway.
So we plinked instead of getting the pistols and rifle targeted. We saw a few ground squirrels, but with his 9mm and his .45, and given the distance, all we did was dust them. One of them sat there staring at us for the longest time. It must have thought we were lighting firecrackers and a dust fairy was nearby! He finally got bored and left. Doh!
We checked the various fishing holes on the way back. All of them were quite full. We did finally stop at the last one. In spite of all the fishers, I decided to toss a few out. My neighbor was tired, so he merely watched, suggesting a change of lure from time to time, but otherwise just enjoying being out of doors. I did get an albino trout to follow one of my lures almost to the bank but, and again, no bite. They were curious that once, then not. The waters right here are so over-fished that the fish are onto it. Who knows how many times they have been caught and released. I would guess though, that two or three days of light fishing, and they might be more eager for another chance at catch and release. If they are small enough, they will get their way.
I do not know if I will make it up this coming morning. But if I do wake up in the early hours, I might head back out again. Seeing the sun come up, feeling the cool of the night mountain air, and being alone with my pole, a granola bar as an eventual breakfast, a number of lures to choose from (and bait and bobber if I remember the bait some time soon!), while knowing I might have a chance at a fine lunch will keep me going.
I had a long and productive day, if I did need a nap. Given the heat, I really am doing quite well. If I can extend this, I really have a chance. If I can lose 20 more pounds, I will be well on my way to solving some of my health issues and getting back into shape. A piece at a time. It really is beginning to click for me. Oh, as a gift to myself should I lose 20 more pounds, I will buy a bike and begin using that for my local travel. The roads here are luxuriously wide, with the only busy road to cross being Main Street. The rest of the streets are like something from a idyllic little town, with rare cars, lots of other bikers, pedestrians, and such. I can see how Logan made the top 5 national list as being one of the most relaxing cities to live in. It is idyllic.
I do not know how to relax. I either go until I fall down or I simply fall down. I am hoping I can bridge that gap, find a medium between those for full time activation, and learn to live a more modest life. Busy always but never in such a rush I do not know what I am doing. I believe that is as much state of mind as it is a state of flesh. Both are required, and I am beginning to believe I can read it. I really am beginning to think I can find that. No, never will I find perfection, here or anywhere. But I think I can get closer here than there, there, or over there.
I will have to get some "film" for my camera and get some shots online. I charged it enough to take pictures of fish, should I have been successful, but now I am fully charging it. The "film" I need are those mini-CD's. A handful of those and I will be able to begin showing you the valleys and mountains within which my cave is nestled. Perhaps I will be able to show some fish too. Then there are the little things I am doing or making, like my target stand and such of which I can take a picture. Who knows, maybe some of the things I am doing or trying to do might help you out. Crazier things have happened.
It has been a long day. Up at 6:00, doing the wake up thing, a couple of hours at the storage unit sorting and restacking, a quick nap, then about 7 hours out in the boonies shooting and fishing. I will stay up a few more hours in order to come down off the high. Tomorrow I will be giving my neighbor a lift to the store. He usually takes his bike, but I think I have finally started wearing him out. So, he asked for a ride to pick up some of the bigger items which give him trouble with his bike and bus system. I then need to figure out what all I have from the storage unit and how to manage it, use the vacuum and otherwise tidy up the cave, and then later in the week I will go back for boxes which I want to sort and repack. Not bad for almost having slipped into lethargy again and so recently.
Good night.
Another decent day, so far.
.
.
The day will only get better. I did not get to the storage unit last night. I would have had to take a shower, get dressed, and in a bit of a hurry. Plus, after the move, boxes sound as interesting as, well, more boxes! Though very hot again last night, it was a cool night (outside) and got down to 57 F. The apartment stayed well over 90 and the A/C simply would not do a thing and the fans brought nothing of the outside cool in. I am suspicious that some dolts in these apartments ignorantly have their heaters on or something. Either that or the apartment is sitting on a geothermal mess. In any case, I did get to the storage this morning.
I found my cast iron pans, my camera, my calculus and physics study materials, and some other things. It was about 77 F when I headed to the place. I not only found most of what I needed and wanted, I was able to sort out the couch so that I can close the storage unit door without having to use a tactical approach. And, I am sorting a bit too. Some of the things I may want sooner than not have been moved up front, book boxes are being separated, and fragile and kitchen boxes are getting arranged together. In time, I should have most of that arranged. Instead of getting boxes to go through this time, I grabbed boxes of material I want here at the apartment. Some of it I will need to figure out how to store, some of it already has a place. Once I arrange this stuff, I will go back, sort some more, and bring back boxes to go through and rearrange. Finally, I am getting to this. And, yeah, it feels good to be doing what I said I would do and need to do.
When I first moved here, I lost at least 20 pounds. I think I was 305 when last weighed in Iowa and 282.5 after about a week and a half, a week here on the ground. Then I gained a few pounds, as I was eating out until I was finished with the main immediate things here, and about a week later, gaining to 284.5. After two weeks or so of finally having my feet on the ground, a fridge and microwave, and learning to eat less due to the heat, I weighed in today at 280 even. I suspect I can keep that level of weight loss as long as the heat prevails, for sure. So, about 8 to 10 more weeks of it. Hopefully, after that, I can become more active when it is cooler to make up for the lack of heat and it's subsequent calorie burning and appetite suppression. So, 20 more pounds off, hopefully, taking me to 260. Then the rest will be up to me. Fair enough.
I was working out a bit, but really had to give that up in the heat. It just was not practical to be pumping iron in 80 to 90 F. Not yet anyway, though I suspect if that is the coolest one can get, it will not ever work well. Perhaps after I install the A/C, a real one, I can get to it. It looks me in the eye every day and I would like to get to it.
I will take a short nap, then my neighbor and myself will make a quick trip to the hardware store. I saw a nifty gig for target practice. Four 1' and three 1 1/2' lengths of pvc piping, a couple of elbows, a couple of t-intersects, and some end caps, plus a few 1x2s, along with some pvc (or is it pvp) glue, and you have an excellent, light, and portable paper stand. I ought to buy a front release stapler as well, along with a 30 or 50 yard measuring tape. Yeah, yeah, that ought to work. But with that, fishing poles, pistols, and rifles, we should have a good day out in the boonies. If I catch a fish, I will be able to show it, if I can figure out how to upload it somewhere somehow. I will figure it out. I might also take some pictures of the surrounds. It is about time I got around to some of the blog promises I made. Perhaps I am not all talk after all.
That reminds me, I best check the camera and make sure it is charged. Would that not be the thing to arrive on sight, catch a lunker, go to take a picture, and... nada. It is only a digital, I never did get that standard camera and the lenses. But it will do for now and is probably easier to work with, computer and blog-wise. I was not going to be able to have a dark room anyway, and money and such became a little scarce as the move approached. I hope it will do.
Nap time!
.
The day will only get better. I did not get to the storage unit last night. I would have had to take a shower, get dressed, and in a bit of a hurry. Plus, after the move, boxes sound as interesting as, well, more boxes! Though very hot again last night, it was a cool night (outside) and got down to 57 F. The apartment stayed well over 90 and the A/C simply would not do a thing and the fans brought nothing of the outside cool in. I am suspicious that some dolts in these apartments ignorantly have their heaters on or something. Either that or the apartment is sitting on a geothermal mess. In any case, I did get to the storage this morning.
I found my cast iron pans, my camera, my calculus and physics study materials, and some other things. It was about 77 F when I headed to the place. I not only found most of what I needed and wanted, I was able to sort out the couch so that I can close the storage unit door without having to use a tactical approach. And, I am sorting a bit too. Some of the things I may want sooner than not have been moved up front, book boxes are being separated, and fragile and kitchen boxes are getting arranged together. In time, I should have most of that arranged. Instead of getting boxes to go through this time, I grabbed boxes of material I want here at the apartment. Some of it I will need to figure out how to store, some of it already has a place. Once I arrange this stuff, I will go back, sort some more, and bring back boxes to go through and rearrange. Finally, I am getting to this. And, yeah, it feels good to be doing what I said I would do and need to do.
When I first moved here, I lost at least 20 pounds. I think I was 305 when last weighed in Iowa and 282.5 after about a week and a half, a week here on the ground. Then I gained a few pounds, as I was eating out until I was finished with the main immediate things here, and about a week later, gaining to 284.5. After two weeks or so of finally having my feet on the ground, a fridge and microwave, and learning to eat less due to the heat, I weighed in today at 280 even. I suspect I can keep that level of weight loss as long as the heat prevails, for sure. So, about 8 to 10 more weeks of it. Hopefully, after that, I can become more active when it is cooler to make up for the lack of heat and it's subsequent calorie burning and appetite suppression. So, 20 more pounds off, hopefully, taking me to 260. Then the rest will be up to me. Fair enough.
I was working out a bit, but really had to give that up in the heat. It just was not practical to be pumping iron in 80 to 90 F. Not yet anyway, though I suspect if that is the coolest one can get, it will not ever work well. Perhaps after I install the A/C, a real one, I can get to it. It looks me in the eye every day and I would like to get to it.
I will take a short nap, then my neighbor and myself will make a quick trip to the hardware store. I saw a nifty gig for target practice. Four 1' and three 1 1/2' lengths of pvc piping, a couple of elbows, a couple of t-intersects, and some end caps, plus a few 1x2s, along with some pvc (or is it pvp) glue, and you have an excellent, light, and portable paper stand. I ought to buy a front release stapler as well, along with a 30 or 50 yard measuring tape. Yeah, yeah, that ought to work. But with that, fishing poles, pistols, and rifles, we should have a good day out in the boonies. If I catch a fish, I will be able to show it, if I can figure out how to upload it somewhere somehow. I will figure it out. I might also take some pictures of the surrounds. It is about time I got around to some of the blog promises I made. Perhaps I am not all talk after all.
That reminds me, I best check the camera and make sure it is charged. Would that not be the thing to arrive on sight, catch a lunker, go to take a picture, and... nada. It is only a digital, I never did get that standard camera and the lenses. But it will do for now and is probably easier to work with, computer and blog-wise. I was not going to be able to have a dark room anyway, and money and such became a little scarce as the move approached. I hope it will do.
Nap time!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Fishing!
.
.
I went out early to go fishing, but it took quite some time to do that last bit of shopping and then drive to just the right spot. It ended up being a good thing as the place I went was only open from early to late and I arrived just at the right time. My first lure brought a fish in after it, but it did not bite. That was the last fish I saw, or even heard. They had been feeding as I arrived. After that first fish followed in (a trout, to be sure), the roiling waters and jumping pretty much ceased. It was not me, it was just the time.
I did see two other fishermen out. One, the one who arrived about a half of an hour after me, was using gear similar to mine. The next, about an hour later, was fly fishing. I did not see a fish caught, nor even a bite. We must all be noobs. *grins* It was quite nice to be out, fishing, and early in the cool. It even rained a bit but the trees would not allow me to get a drop, sadly, at least in this case. I did have a rain coat along in case it rained more.
I am well set for fishing now. Next time I will take bait though, now that I have figured that part of these waters out. And, just upstream from where I was, should I get more sure of my fishing, is a blue-ribbon fishing river. That is the part that requires artificial lures or flies and has a two fish limit. I do not think there is a time to fish and not fish on that, but being a river of some strength, a little care might be advised for fishing there.
I asked my neighbor if he would like to go out fishing today. He suggested that tomorrow would be better. I think he wearies quickly, and three days a week out trouncing around is his limit. He does pretty well though. The heat is not so much of an issue for him and being out for hours driving or shooting is well within his limit. It is good to have company on my outings, but too it will be good to get out on my own. I only fished for an hour and a half this morning. I stuck with it in the hopes of catching something. I may end up fishing one hole, then going to another stream, and heading over to some other lake or river should those first not produce. Before long, I ought to have some things down.
As well, being out and about will do wonders for my health, perhaps it will allow me to learn to handle longer hours up and active, and it could not hurt my soul a bit either. That it may end up delighting my tongue and filling my stomach seems more like a side effect, but one which I would enjoy dearly. I long for a couple of trout, three or four perhaps, like no one's business. It has been years and I am very hungry.
I could just go fishing again this afternoon, but I think I will get to the storage unit instead. There are about a half a dozen things I need to get from there, some of them I can find easily. Frying pans, camera, and a few other things, on top of beginning my sorting process and repacking the storage unit itself. A little tonight, perhaps more in the morning when I have more time, and then through time. I seem to have broken through the lethargy curse. The shooting kept me from falling all the way, the neighbor's visits, and now fishing may end up curbing the fall and then reversing it altogether. That, if you remember, was half of the plan involved with coming out here. It may be working.
Oh, the V.A. in Ogden called today to set up an appointment for the second week of August. I will be seeing a nurse practitioner. I prefer those and physician assistants the most, so that sounds good. The node near my privates is gone. Perhaps it truly was a diabetic thing, or one of those other things Jean or D.C. indicated. Though I will tell her, and so I suspect I will be in a humble position soon. Gack, as good as medics can be, I hate that part of it. I will ask for a return to Ritalin, barring that I need nothing else except for a consult to the eye and dental clinics. I do not expect to get my wish, but it is worth a shot. I will not take other medications, which is what they will tie it, most likely.
I best get going. The storage facility closes at 22:00. That gives me just a few hours to sort a bit. Have a great evening. Or, morning for some of you? Blogging, time zones, and all that can make one's eyes cross.
.
I went out early to go fishing, but it took quite some time to do that last bit of shopping and then drive to just the right spot. It ended up being a good thing as the place I went was only open from early to late and I arrived just at the right time. My first lure brought a fish in after it, but it did not bite. That was the last fish I saw, or even heard. They had been feeding as I arrived. After that first fish followed in (a trout, to be sure), the roiling waters and jumping pretty much ceased. It was not me, it was just the time.
I did see two other fishermen out. One, the one who arrived about a half of an hour after me, was using gear similar to mine. The next, about an hour later, was fly fishing. I did not see a fish caught, nor even a bite. We must all be noobs. *grins* It was quite nice to be out, fishing, and early in the cool. It even rained a bit but the trees would not allow me to get a drop, sadly, at least in this case. I did have a rain coat along in case it rained more.
I am well set for fishing now. Next time I will take bait though, now that I have figured that part of these waters out. And, just upstream from where I was, should I get more sure of my fishing, is a blue-ribbon fishing river. That is the part that requires artificial lures or flies and has a two fish limit. I do not think there is a time to fish and not fish on that, but being a river of some strength, a little care might be advised for fishing there.
I asked my neighbor if he would like to go out fishing today. He suggested that tomorrow would be better. I think he wearies quickly, and three days a week out trouncing around is his limit. He does pretty well though. The heat is not so much of an issue for him and being out for hours driving or shooting is well within his limit. It is good to have company on my outings, but too it will be good to get out on my own. I only fished for an hour and a half this morning. I stuck with it in the hopes of catching something. I may end up fishing one hole, then going to another stream, and heading over to some other lake or river should those first not produce. Before long, I ought to have some things down.
As well, being out and about will do wonders for my health, perhaps it will allow me to learn to handle longer hours up and active, and it could not hurt my soul a bit either. That it may end up delighting my tongue and filling my stomach seems more like a side effect, but one which I would enjoy dearly. I long for a couple of trout, three or four perhaps, like no one's business. It has been years and I am very hungry.
I could just go fishing again this afternoon, but I think I will get to the storage unit instead. There are about a half a dozen things I need to get from there, some of them I can find easily. Frying pans, camera, and a few other things, on top of beginning my sorting process and repacking the storage unit itself. A little tonight, perhaps more in the morning when I have more time, and then through time. I seem to have broken through the lethargy curse. The shooting kept me from falling all the way, the neighbor's visits, and now fishing may end up curbing the fall and then reversing it altogether. That, if you remember, was half of the plan involved with coming out here. It may be working.
Oh, the V.A. in Ogden called today to set up an appointment for the second week of August. I will be seeing a nurse practitioner. I prefer those and physician assistants the most, so that sounds good. The node near my privates is gone. Perhaps it truly was a diabetic thing, or one of those other things Jean or D.C. indicated. Though I will tell her, and so I suspect I will be in a humble position soon. Gack, as good as medics can be, I hate that part of it. I will ask for a return to Ritalin, barring that I need nothing else except for a consult to the eye and dental clinics. I do not expect to get my wish, but it is worth a shot. I will not take other medications, which is what they will tie it, most likely.
I best get going. The storage facility closes at 22:00. That gives me just a few hours to sort a bit. Have a great evening. Or, morning for some of you? Blogging, time zones, and all that can make one's eyes cross.
Fishing on my mind, little sleep to be had, so...
.
.
I am off. The clouds have obscured the quarter moon, which itself was not lending much light to the night, so, I do believe I will stop and purchase a lantern. I have straightened my fishing gear, organizing the lots for this and that, and in a fairly decent manner, I should thing. My fishing poles, the two lighter ones which I will be taking, have been rigged and are ready. While picking up a lantern, I might grab one more rod, a light action rod and reel set, of the inexpensive simple type. The two reels I have are, problematic shall we say. That or I have never learned to use them properly. They both tend to tangle at the drop of the hat, despite my research on the right fishing line, the correct weight of lures, and lots of trial and error. I thought I had them down, to a degree. But that has been some time, so I want a back up reel. I guess I really do not need another rod.
I sat here, working with my gear, wondering if I would ever get to sleep, and finally agreeing that it would be better to be fishing than sitting here wondering if I would get to sleep. However, after the gear was set, and while tinkering on the machine, I did decide to do a little more research. I was thinking that the places I will be going fishing had a 2 fish limit, and only lures and flies could be used. Yet two locals were telling me that I could keep four fish and that I could use bait. After re-re-re-reading the fishing guide, going on line and trying to find a map of the parameters discussed in the book, and then looking up common water fishing rules, I think I finally understand. But it was a tussle.
I can have four fish, use bait, flies, or lures (nothing scented, I think that is pretty much universal Utah fishing law, at least for rivers, maybe?). Re-re-re-re-reading suggests that 'flavored' artificial baits are fine, as long as they are digestible. Doh! Lawyers ought to be shot, hung, drawn, and quartered. Hrm, that may not have been politically correct. Oh well. Oh, and lit on fire.
I best get going if I want to fish in peace, for a bit, hopefully. Maybe I will even get a hit or two on my first day. Who knows.
*Gone Fishing*
*poof!*
.
I am off. The clouds have obscured the quarter moon, which itself was not lending much light to the night, so, I do believe I will stop and purchase a lantern. I have straightened my fishing gear, organizing the lots for this and that, and in a fairly decent manner, I should thing. My fishing poles, the two lighter ones which I will be taking, have been rigged and are ready. While picking up a lantern, I might grab one more rod, a light action rod and reel set, of the inexpensive simple type. The two reels I have are, problematic shall we say. That or I have never learned to use them properly. They both tend to tangle at the drop of the hat, despite my research on the right fishing line, the correct weight of lures, and lots of trial and error. I thought I had them down, to a degree. But that has been some time, so I want a back up reel. I guess I really do not need another rod.
I sat here, working with my gear, wondering if I would ever get to sleep, and finally agreeing that it would be better to be fishing than sitting here wondering if I would get to sleep. However, after the gear was set, and while tinkering on the machine, I did decide to do a little more research. I was thinking that the places I will be going fishing had a 2 fish limit, and only lures and flies could be used. Yet two locals were telling me that I could keep four fish and that I could use bait. After re-re-re-reading the fishing guide, going on line and trying to find a map of the parameters discussed in the book, and then looking up common water fishing rules, I think I finally understand. But it was a tussle.
I can have four fish, use bait, flies, or lures (nothing scented, I think that is pretty much universal Utah fishing law, at least for rivers, maybe?). Re-re-re-re-reading suggests that 'flavored' artificial baits are fine, as long as they are digestible. Doh! Lawyers ought to be shot, hung, drawn, and quartered. Hrm, that may not have been politically correct. Oh well. Oh, and lit on fire.
I best get going if I want to fish in peace, for a bit, hopefully. Maybe I will even get a hit or two on my first day. Who knows.
*Gone Fishing*
*poof!*
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Almost ready.
.
.
I spoke with my neighbor earlier. I had not seen him out, so I knocked on his door. He had just been about ready to go out on the 'porch', as I call it, so he finished up a bit then came out. I had already showered, so I was ready to go but I knew he might want to shower as well. Nothing like looking spiffy for the ladies. *laughs* Well, we can hope it is the thought that counts, at least I hope for myself. He thought he might be interested in going, but he might need a shower. After a short talk, he headed in to get ready and I came in to wait. A bit later, he rang my doorbell and asked if I was sure I wanted to go tonight. He had thought, somehow, that I had meant tomorrow. Nope, I said, I am going tonight. Well, he thought about it and decided to go as well. *grins* I am glad he did. I think he steered me rightly a couple of times, and once or twice I took his advice in spite of my intuition.
I ended up with a small but expensive packet of gear. Needle nose pliers was the only equipment I needed. I have pliers but I hate taking my real working pliers and they are not needle nosed anyway, not the ones I have here at the apartment. Then I bought three variants of Panther Martin's spinners, two variants of Rooster Tail's spinners, three Dareevle spoons, a six pack of Mepps' spinners, ten flies and float oil, five cheaper but traditional red and white bobbers, and a packet of round split shot (which of all the types of sinkers and weights I have, I was defunct in these). I forgot to get a lantern. If I end up going fishing early tomorrow, or some other early hour on whatever day, I will stop by Wal-Mart and grab something.
The lures cost a little more than the fishing license. I suspect I will really have to reel them in to make my money back! The truth is, if they get me out of the house and on the river, even if I catch no fish I will be ahead, as I see things. I have some doubts about my ability to fish, in any case. Being the doubting pessimist that I am, that is the way of it. If I end up catching 10 keeper sized fish, I will believe a good fisherman should have caught 20, if I catch zero I will know it is my skill, no matter, I have become hard to please in some ways. But the truth is, I am usually happy with whatever happens. That is why, truth be told, I should keep my mouth shut.
But, knowing me as some of you do, that will not happen. I talk, and write, much like a songbird might. Good or ill, right or wrong, sun or rain, I will prattle. Mindlessly, heedlessly, thoughtfullessly, recklessly, and such, I will speak what is on my mind, what is in my mind, and sometimes just what comes to me. And, as with some of my former readers who I dearly enjoy who have left, I am sure I will regret it. But, that is the way of it. Such is life, my nature, your nature, and all.
I believe I have some leaders, snaps, extra line, and several rods and reels ready to go. I hope the line is still good, though it should be. I can almost smell and feel the breeze, hear the gurgling water, and taste the fish. If not today, or tomorrow, the time will come. I am ready in all but flesh right now. It will happen. I really need to get into my storage and sort through some things. My cast iron frying pan, cast iron grill, and big frying pan (the one with waffles in it). Though that last is not cast, it cooks steaks, so I am sure fish, of larger sizes, like nothing else out there. And, I would like to get my camera out and going. Proof, as they say, is in the picture, or was that pudding? Bah, fish pudding sounds terrible. I will stick with picture. Hopefully pictures. Plural is better if you believe the song about "One", it being the loneliest number.
Why does nobody tell me when I am babbling? Must be the heat, the time, that I am tired, and the excitement of being all but ready to fish. I will let you off the hook and do something mild to quiet my mind for rest. I hope I dream of fishing! Maybe you will even dream of fishing, cold waters, and a fine aquatically originate meal. From my hook to your mouth, or maybe even from your hook? No, my blog, my hook. Good night.
.
I spoke with my neighbor earlier. I had not seen him out, so I knocked on his door. He had just been about ready to go out on the 'porch', as I call it, so he finished up a bit then came out. I had already showered, so I was ready to go but I knew he might want to shower as well. Nothing like looking spiffy for the ladies. *laughs* Well, we can hope it is the thought that counts, at least I hope for myself. He thought he might be interested in going, but he might need a shower. After a short talk, he headed in to get ready and I came in to wait. A bit later, he rang my doorbell and asked if I was sure I wanted to go tonight. He had thought, somehow, that I had meant tomorrow. Nope, I said, I am going tonight. Well, he thought about it and decided to go as well. *grins* I am glad he did. I think he steered me rightly a couple of times, and once or twice I took his advice in spite of my intuition.
I ended up with a small but expensive packet of gear. Needle nose pliers was the only equipment I needed. I have pliers but I hate taking my real working pliers and they are not needle nosed anyway, not the ones I have here at the apartment. Then I bought three variants of Panther Martin's spinners, two variants of Rooster Tail's spinners, three Dareevle spoons, a six pack of Mepps' spinners, ten flies and float oil, five cheaper but traditional red and white bobbers, and a packet of round split shot (which of all the types of sinkers and weights I have, I was defunct in these). I forgot to get a lantern. If I end up going fishing early tomorrow, or some other early hour on whatever day, I will stop by Wal-Mart and grab something.
The lures cost a little more than the fishing license. I suspect I will really have to reel them in to make my money back! The truth is, if they get me out of the house and on the river, even if I catch no fish I will be ahead, as I see things. I have some doubts about my ability to fish, in any case. Being the doubting pessimist that I am, that is the way of it. If I end up catching 10 keeper sized fish, I will believe a good fisherman should have caught 20, if I catch zero I will know it is my skill, no matter, I have become hard to please in some ways. But the truth is, I am usually happy with whatever happens. That is why, truth be told, I should keep my mouth shut.
But, knowing me as some of you do, that will not happen. I talk, and write, much like a songbird might. Good or ill, right or wrong, sun or rain, I will prattle. Mindlessly, heedlessly, thoughtfullessly, recklessly, and such, I will speak what is on my mind, what is in my mind, and sometimes just what comes to me. And, as with some of my former readers who I dearly enjoy who have left, I am sure I will regret it. But, that is the way of it. Such is life, my nature, your nature, and all.
I believe I have some leaders, snaps, extra line, and several rods and reels ready to go. I hope the line is still good, though it should be. I can almost smell and feel the breeze, hear the gurgling water, and taste the fish. If not today, or tomorrow, the time will come. I am ready in all but flesh right now. It will happen. I really need to get into my storage and sort through some things. My cast iron frying pan, cast iron grill, and big frying pan (the one with waffles in it). Though that last is not cast, it cooks steaks, so I am sure fish, of larger sizes, like nothing else out there. And, I would like to get my camera out and going. Proof, as they say, is in the picture, or was that pudding? Bah, fish pudding sounds terrible. I will stick with picture. Hopefully pictures. Plural is better if you believe the song about "One", it being the loneliest number.
Why does nobody tell me when I am babbling? Must be the heat, the time, that I am tired, and the excitement of being all but ready to fish. I will let you off the hook and do something mild to quiet my mind for rest. I hope I dream of fishing! Maybe you will even dream of fishing, cold waters, and a fine aquatically originate meal. From my hook to your mouth, or maybe even from your hook? No, my blog, my hook. Good night.
While I should be at Church...
.
.
I find myself looking at lures. Of course, I have fallen a bit. Many of you know how I can fall and stay down a bit, or a long bit. I know I pushed things pretty hard, pretty far, and for an extended period of time. So it really should not come as a shock that I have shut down a bit. I might even have just collapsed were it not for my neighbor. Beyond pushing to go shooting and driving, when he walks by outside my window, I can see him. And, once in a while, I will take the bait and go out and talk for an hour or so, several times a day.
I am doing more in my fallen condition than I ever have. And, with the fishing license, I will probably extend beyond even that. Once I get lures, in any case. The closest fishing spot requires artificial lures (no scented ones) or flies. And since getting a fly fishing rig and those pieces together would cost a lot more, on top of the license, I think I will stick to artificial lures and the rods and reals I have. The other spots allow for bait, and I have hooks and sinkers if need be. So, while I should be in Church, I am reviewing which lures to buy.
Then again, being in 90 to 100 F weather while only being able to cool the place to 76 for a few hours during the day might have something to do with my inability to function as I would like. Even young ones have some difficulty with this if they do not have a place to cool off. Given my condition, my disability, and the weather, I suppose it is somewhat fair that I am not able to schedule well. Church, too, is more than a simple task. What to wear, what is appropriate, keeping several sets of clothes or more available for that in my cramped quarters, and just being ready. I will get there, in time.
I have picked about 20 lures. I was reading an "Field & Stream" online article, titled 'The 50 Greatest Lures of All Time' and picked about 20 from there, of which I will only initially buy a handful, some in duplicate, some in triplicate. I will take my neighbor shopping when I go, and use his experience with my intuition as well. I do not take orders, but I might just listen from time to time. Ha! As well, I keep going over the fish guidebook for Utah fishing. I am trying to get the rules down. They are many, varied, and sometimes complicated. They vary from water to water, and are seemingly non-specific at all in some cases. I do not wish to lose my license, cause trouble, or even do the wrong thing whether caught at it or not. But one almost needs an encyclopedic memory or law degree to get the rules and regulations down pat.
I think if I can talk him into it, I might go and see who is open and what they offer in the way of lures and perhaps bait. I should also grab a few bobbers for where bait is allowed. Even if I do go shopping, and even with the research I am doing, I am not getting much done. Still, it is much better than my usual lows. I am actually consciously thinking and planning. Not just about this, but about my lady friend's visit and a few other things. Bits and pieces, one thing at a time, and doing what I can and when I can. Even if lost, I am winning.
I suppose I am saying, even if you cannot, do not quit. Get back in the saddle. If that is not possible, then begin planning how else to do it or how to get those legs back in. If you need to sit, fine. But be thinking. If it hurts, figure that out and figure how you can get to where you need. If you must crawl, do so. If you can walk, fine. But when it is time again, the saddle must be a priority. It is the fastest way, that is, in the saddle, on a beast which loves to do the leg work. The saddle and horse beats by speed and energy doing that work on our own. Hiiiii-Yaahhhhh! Giddie-up!
.
I find myself looking at lures. Of course, I have fallen a bit. Many of you know how I can fall and stay down a bit, or a long bit. I know I pushed things pretty hard, pretty far, and for an extended period of time. So it really should not come as a shock that I have shut down a bit. I might even have just collapsed were it not for my neighbor. Beyond pushing to go shooting and driving, when he walks by outside my window, I can see him. And, once in a while, I will take the bait and go out and talk for an hour or so, several times a day.
I am doing more in my fallen condition than I ever have. And, with the fishing license, I will probably extend beyond even that. Once I get lures, in any case. The closest fishing spot requires artificial lures (no scented ones) or flies. And since getting a fly fishing rig and those pieces together would cost a lot more, on top of the license, I think I will stick to artificial lures and the rods and reals I have. The other spots allow for bait, and I have hooks and sinkers if need be. So, while I should be in Church, I am reviewing which lures to buy.
Then again, being in 90 to 100 F weather while only being able to cool the place to 76 for a few hours during the day might have something to do with my inability to function as I would like. Even young ones have some difficulty with this if they do not have a place to cool off. Given my condition, my disability, and the weather, I suppose it is somewhat fair that I am not able to schedule well. Church, too, is more than a simple task. What to wear, what is appropriate, keeping several sets of clothes or more available for that in my cramped quarters, and just being ready. I will get there, in time.
I have picked about 20 lures. I was reading an "Field & Stream" online article, titled 'The 50 Greatest Lures of All Time' and picked about 20 from there, of which I will only initially buy a handful, some in duplicate, some in triplicate. I will take my neighbor shopping when I go, and use his experience with my intuition as well. I do not take orders, but I might just listen from time to time. Ha! As well, I keep going over the fish guidebook for Utah fishing. I am trying to get the rules down. They are many, varied, and sometimes complicated. They vary from water to water, and are seemingly non-specific at all in some cases. I do not wish to lose my license, cause trouble, or even do the wrong thing whether caught at it or not. But one almost needs an encyclopedic memory or law degree to get the rules and regulations down pat.
I think if I can talk him into it, I might go and see who is open and what they offer in the way of lures and perhaps bait. I should also grab a few bobbers for where bait is allowed. Even if I do go shopping, and even with the research I am doing, I am not getting much done. Still, it is much better than my usual lows. I am actually consciously thinking and planning. Not just about this, but about my lady friend's visit and a few other things. Bits and pieces, one thing at a time, and doing what I can and when I can. Even if lost, I am winning.
I suppose I am saying, even if you cannot, do not quit. Get back in the saddle. If that is not possible, then begin planning how else to do it or how to get those legs back in. If you need to sit, fine. But be thinking. If it hurts, figure that out and figure how you can get to where you need. If you must crawl, do so. If you can walk, fine. But when it is time again, the saddle must be a priority. It is the fastest way, that is, in the saddle, on a beast which loves to do the leg work. The saddle and horse beats by speed and energy doing that work on our own. Hiiiii-Yaahhhhh! Giddie-up!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Trying to be cheap. Still trying.
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Today was the fourth time I have been out and about in the woods, valleys, mountains, passes, and such. Shooting, again and as usual. The Xterra was tested in a small way, down a cutback switch of a single lane wash that passes for a road. Thankfully, the only thing we met were a few atvs of the smaller variety. Though I believe other vehicles could have been negotiated just as easily. At the bottom of that road was a nice little stream. We stopped by it to see what, if anything, might be stirring. I would guess almost two dozen shadows flitted away under that water. Few were large, but there were some decent pan sized shadows to be sure.
We continued on until we found a rather large ground squirrel area and decided to see if a few would stand still long enough for us to shoot. No luck today. The sage brush is high and thick, the squirrels were fast and wary, if numerous. We did get a few shots off, and perhaps one or two needed to change their shorts, but no kill shots. He was using his rifle and I was using my pistol, both .22 caliber.
The road was quite rough, steep, rocky, and occasionally seriously rutted. I had to navigate, keeping speed in check, and looking closely for various potential problems. The Xterra did fine, and I was satisfied with my driving as well. There were areas I shifted into low (the Xterra has drive, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st gears, plus 4x4 hi, 4x4 lo, and electrically locking rear differentials). At the right speed, the trip if bumpy was fine. Having 9 1/2" of real total clearance helps a great deal. I think my passenger was fine with my driving as well. I cannot get him to use his seat belt on the highway, and he chose not to use it even on the rough road. I am not going to force him if too I will not pay any ticket he might get.
On the way back, after seeing the fish in the creek, I decided today was the day. I have been holding off, trying to get all financial matters back in hand, and avoiding spending as much as possible. But today was indeed the day. I finally have my fishing license. At $70 dollars, probably plus tax and other b.s., I had best get to wringing the dollars back out of it in fish. Though I will continue to take my neighbor for shooting a few times a week, I think I will need to go on my own some too. Simply put, where I want to fish, hike, and maybe even shoot, I am not sure he is able to go. And, I might want to shoot, fish, or even swim longer or shorter than what he would like to do. I did buy my swimming trunks, by the way, now targets too.
I checked the Wal-Mart stores last not, but to no avail. They did not have the A/C at either store. It looks like it will take a week or two to get here, and I am not sure it will fit. Gack, I hate not being sure. Still, if it does not fit, I can still make some revisions. Revisions I would have to do for any other A/C in any case. Plus, I think the 8k would be perfect for my place. It could turn it into an ice box if I needed, or just idle and keep it in good stead too.
But, right now, I am trying to live on the cheap. Until money comes in, refunds arrive, and banking is normalized, I am living on luck and debt. Oh well. You have to do what you have to do. I ought to dig out my digital camera, at least, to try and get some pictures. I never did end up buying a film camera, time and money all became too tight too quickly. But the digital should make sharing easier.
Update: The a/c is on it's way. I did not order the one D.C. suggested. After a few careful (ha!) measurements, I decided I would have to build something no matter, so I went with the regular one (which I think will accordion out a bit more). I would have had to work with both sides and top on the other, but also had to mess with both top and narrower side issues. These slide windows are taller than full size and equal to or wider than some standard windows. It will be a week or more before it arrives, so I should have plywood cut, screws, and such by the time it arrives. Cheap is fine but I need cool.
.
Today was the fourth time I have been out and about in the woods, valleys, mountains, passes, and such. Shooting, again and as usual. The Xterra was tested in a small way, down a cutback switch of a single lane wash that passes for a road. Thankfully, the only thing we met were a few atvs of the smaller variety. Though I believe other vehicles could have been negotiated just as easily. At the bottom of that road was a nice little stream. We stopped by it to see what, if anything, might be stirring. I would guess almost two dozen shadows flitted away under that water. Few were large, but there were some decent pan sized shadows to be sure.
We continued on until we found a rather large ground squirrel area and decided to see if a few would stand still long enough for us to shoot. No luck today. The sage brush is high and thick, the squirrels were fast and wary, if numerous. We did get a few shots off, and perhaps one or two needed to change their shorts, but no kill shots. He was using his rifle and I was using my pistol, both .22 caliber.
The road was quite rough, steep, rocky, and occasionally seriously rutted. I had to navigate, keeping speed in check, and looking closely for various potential problems. The Xterra did fine, and I was satisfied with my driving as well. There were areas I shifted into low (the Xterra has drive, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st gears, plus 4x4 hi, 4x4 lo, and electrically locking rear differentials). At the right speed, the trip if bumpy was fine. Having 9 1/2" of real total clearance helps a great deal. I think my passenger was fine with my driving as well. I cannot get him to use his seat belt on the highway, and he chose not to use it even on the rough road. I am not going to force him if too I will not pay any ticket he might get.
On the way back, after seeing the fish in the creek, I decided today was the day. I have been holding off, trying to get all financial matters back in hand, and avoiding spending as much as possible. But today was indeed the day. I finally have my fishing license. At $70 dollars, probably plus tax and other b.s., I had best get to wringing the dollars back out of it in fish. Though I will continue to take my neighbor for shooting a few times a week, I think I will need to go on my own some too. Simply put, where I want to fish, hike, and maybe even shoot, I am not sure he is able to go. And, I might want to shoot, fish, or even swim longer or shorter than what he would like to do. I did buy my swimming trunks, by the way, now targets too.
I checked the Wal-Mart stores last not, but to no avail. They did not have the A/C at either store. It looks like it will take a week or two to get here, and I am not sure it will fit. Gack, I hate not being sure. Still, if it does not fit, I can still make some revisions. Revisions I would have to do for any other A/C in any case. Plus, I think the 8k would be perfect for my place. It could turn it into an ice box if I needed, or just idle and keep it in good stead too.
But, right now, I am trying to live on the cheap. Until money comes in, refunds arrive, and banking is normalized, I am living on luck and debt. Oh well. You have to do what you have to do. I ought to dig out my digital camera, at least, to try and get some pictures. I never did end up buying a film camera, time and money all became too tight too quickly. But the digital should make sharing easier.
Update: The a/c is on it's way. I did not order the one D.C. suggested. After a few careful (ha!) measurements, I decided I would have to build something no matter, so I went with the regular one (which I think will accordion out a bit more). I would have had to work with both sides and top on the other, but also had to mess with both top and narrower side issues. These slide windows are taller than full size and equal to or wider than some standard windows. It will be a week or more before it arrives, so I should have plywood cut, screws, and such by the time it arrives. Cheap is fine but I need cool.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Christmas vacation.
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.
After some serious searching I finally found all that I need to arrange the Christmas vacation. It looks like a cabin is open and there are flights that match the needs of my lady friend. I have one final thing, or set of things, to check with here. The flights at the times she wants or needs each have an additional stop and the cabins require us to ski to them! It sounds exciting to me, even if the rout is almost four miles in. We will have to bring some gear with us, as well, so it will be a 'working vacation'. For me, I am all in for it. I will need to send her a checklist of things she will need to bring, some of which if she does not have I will help with. Though I think she has most of it or will get it herself. Who knows. We will mess with those details as the time draws nigh.
Though this will short my credit a bit now, it should all be paid for when the time comes. By then, I should not only have this paid for, I would guess I will have my credit cards zeroed again, and some money in the bank. I must admit, at this point though, the prospect of buying the tickets and making reservations is a bit nerve tingling in the bad way. Sticker shock works like that. But having it done and over, in time, will be reassuring. I suppose it goes along with 'having your cake and eating it to'. All things have their price and their pleasure, but only one of those at a time, as the saying suggests. I think it is better to pay the price first, then lounge in the pleasure. Yes, I know, it does not quite fit, nag, nag, nag. :p
I am excited about the deal. It will be interesting to see if skiing and lodging a bit in the boonies is as good for her as is canoeing and kayaking. If so, we might have to make this a regular event. I know I am quite interested. If nothing else, I might have to find other friends who like such things or simply go on my own. We (by we, I mean I) will even have to chip off my own wood for the pot belly stove. She will, I am sure, be happy that the cabin I have chosen is not, itself, in avalanche territory. Nor is the approach to it in avalanche threat. If, like all the other cabins avalable, much of the area around the chosen cabin is in avalanche area. All of the other cabins and some of the approaches to the other cabins are in avalanche lanes. *laughs* I guess that is how the nether regions are, in the mountains anyway.
It feels good to finally have that settled. Though I best get on reservations and such quickly. Tomorrow is a state holiday, so I cannot hold the cabin. And I will not make flight reservations until a cabin can be reserved. Though I can call her and leave a message to call me concerning the details. The bother, but it would be nice to see Tiger Lily again.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Pieces and parts.
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.
After being here for three weeks, and having my internet active for a week, one would think everything would have been transitioned to my new account long ago. Not so. Just today was I able to get the primary business and blog stuff rolled over. My email account on my new system did not work like it was supposed to work. I had to play with it over a number of days for things to click. Then, to activate my account with the ISP to smooth out some final details, I needed (though did not know it) another code which ended up getting to me only a day or two ago. After figuring out which code went where, how this and that should be configured or at least figuring out how to configure it so that it does what I need, I finally do have most of that done.
My place needs a little tlc, but really, is still in pretty good shape. Taking out the trash, actually, is all that is needed. The trash and the recycling need to go out, to be more precise. Most of my systems are up and running, though a real air conditioner is being considered. Bit by bit, my bathroom and toiletries, a plunger, the computers, internet, and all are being arranged, plugged in, and getting going. Life here, on a personal basis, is nearly back to Iowa standards.
Money is becoming short, as I might have expected. I have plenty of credit, and actually plenty of cash, if it is split between two accounts, some of it in reserve for account requirements. I have a single bill left and several refunds ranging from $500 to $700 coming back. But being down to, seemingly, my last spendable nickles is always weird. Especially when I could use an A/C. I have plenty for food and small purchases, but $300 plus tax makes me grimace. August, and even September to a degree, are the hotter months. As such, I may just get the A/C now. As despicable as debt is, it has it's benefits too. Besides, I have more coming in than what I will be spending, apart, of course, from moving expenses.
Oh, and after negotiating times, dates, accommodations, and such, I do believe my lady friend and I have landed upon when she will visit. It will be good, for both of us, to have someone familiar to be with for Christmas. She had best not expect more than stocking stuffings for gifts, though. I do expect to throw in ski rentals, cross-country, for both of us though. Which means I will need to learn and then practice. The place for our stay is in prime cross-country area. It seems she has already learned and been going skiing there in Iowa, with other friends, this last winter. It should be a nice vacation for both of us. And of course, weather dependent, I might be able to show her around a little bit out here. Oddly, she has visited more of the parks in Utah than I have heard of in my preliminary searches. Still, I will nearly be native by the time she gets here. I do have a small Christmas present in mind for her, if I can find it.
My mother is safely on the ground and helping my brother recover from his emergency back surgery. She says he is doing very well, all things considered. He must have some of that resiliency that both Mom and I have. And the stubborn streak, or it would not have been an emergency surgery. I do think, that being brought to his knees in pain and the humbling nature of incapacity has lent to his understanding of not only who, but what, Mom is. I have been there and done that. And though at times I struggle with it, I have learned and try to back off, unless she encroaches too far, then I help her remember who, and what, I am. It is all good.
That is my life in a nutshell. I have things half done, things to do, and much done as well. I think with a proper cooling system in here, life might smooth out a bit more and more might get done more quickly. But it is working here, and well. Time will tell, but it is looking good. The future is so bright, I have to wear shades. Well, sort of.
.
After being here for three weeks, and having my internet active for a week, one would think everything would have been transitioned to my new account long ago. Not so. Just today was I able to get the primary business and blog stuff rolled over. My email account on my new system did not work like it was supposed to work. I had to play with it over a number of days for things to click. Then, to activate my account with the ISP to smooth out some final details, I needed (though did not know it) another code which ended up getting to me only a day or two ago. After figuring out which code went where, how this and that should be configured or at least figuring out how to configure it so that it does what I need, I finally do have most of that done.
My place needs a little tlc, but really, is still in pretty good shape. Taking out the trash, actually, is all that is needed. The trash and the recycling need to go out, to be more precise. Most of my systems are up and running, though a real air conditioner is being considered. Bit by bit, my bathroom and toiletries, a plunger, the computers, internet, and all are being arranged, plugged in, and getting going. Life here, on a personal basis, is nearly back to Iowa standards.
Money is becoming short, as I might have expected. I have plenty of credit, and actually plenty of cash, if it is split between two accounts, some of it in reserve for account requirements. I have a single bill left and several refunds ranging from $500 to $700 coming back. But being down to, seemingly, my last spendable nickles is always weird. Especially when I could use an A/C. I have plenty for food and small purchases, but $300 plus tax makes me grimace. August, and even September to a degree, are the hotter months. As such, I may just get the A/C now. As despicable as debt is, it has it's benefits too. Besides, I have more coming in than what I will be spending, apart, of course, from moving expenses.
Oh, and after negotiating times, dates, accommodations, and such, I do believe my lady friend and I have landed upon when she will visit. It will be good, for both of us, to have someone familiar to be with for Christmas. She had best not expect more than stocking stuffings for gifts, though. I do expect to throw in ski rentals, cross-country, for both of us though. Which means I will need to learn and then practice. The place for our stay is in prime cross-country area. It seems she has already learned and been going skiing there in Iowa, with other friends, this last winter. It should be a nice vacation for both of us. And of course, weather dependent, I might be able to show her around a little bit out here. Oddly, she has visited more of the parks in Utah than I have heard of in my preliminary searches. Still, I will nearly be native by the time she gets here. I do have a small Christmas present in mind for her, if I can find it.
My mother is safely on the ground and helping my brother recover from his emergency back surgery. She says he is doing very well, all things considered. He must have some of that resiliency that both Mom and I have. And the stubborn streak, or it would not have been an emergency surgery. I do think, that being brought to his knees in pain and the humbling nature of incapacity has lent to his understanding of not only who, but what, Mom is. I have been there and done that. And though at times I struggle with it, I have learned and try to back off, unless she encroaches too far, then I help her remember who, and what, I am. It is all good.
That is my life in a nutshell. I have things half done, things to do, and much done as well. I think with a proper cooling system in here, life might smooth out a bit more and more might get done more quickly. But it is working here, and well. Time will tell, but it is looking good. The future is so bright, I have to wear shades. Well, sort of.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Out and about.
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.
I have not had but one day here at the cave, to myself, in a while now. But I am not complaining. I have been out target practicing three times recently, business took a few days, and the auto needed an oil change and a minor recall taken care of today. Tomorrow I plan on going shooting again. But this time I am going to buy a target paper holder and target paper. I know the guns are doing well, finally, but I need to know how well, what changes I can make, and then get going on making the final adjustments. As well, I will be taking swimming trunks. Near the place I shoot in Logan Valley, there happens to be a stream. It is not a tiny little thing and it is not a full out river either. There are areas beavers or something have dammed it which provide handy little wading pools. Though it is not as cold as spring, it should provide enough cooling for my needs. I have been eying the little water greedily lately, and know I must take the plunge.
As well, and in spite of the cost for us out-of-staters, I really have to get a fishing license. I am so hungry for fish and the water looks good. I may have to get some water footwear too, as half of my last pair went away in the white-water event of '08. I can handle the cold, especially now. But some of my gear is still in storage. I do have my fishing gear out, but I could use some other things from storage. I will have to make that more of a priority. I need several things, from clothes, to gear, to books now.
I am getting more comfortable with the temps and dryness hereabouts. I need to moisturize much less often, and the heat is bearable if I can get out of it from time to time. I suspect that by the time it cools off, I will be ready for summer. The good thing is, I think winter here will be a breeze. I fully intend to figure out cross-country skiing this year. Maybe by December, when my lady friend suggests she will visit, I will be competent enough to take her out for that a time or two. Who knows though, she is a kook.
I really need to begin going through my stuff. I would like to get calculus under my belt again. I can do that in a few weeks if I push it. Then I can keep it sort of on top with a half a dozen hours of study a week. Physics needs to be studied as well. I would like to go over differential equations before too long, as well, but I do not have a good study pack for that, yet. I have not tried to make contact at the school yet, I suspect everyone is gone. Maybe in a week or two though, I will call and see if an adviser or professor or two is available and would be interested in discussing school.
I saw that I had not updated for the last few days. Though there really is not too much going on, I decided to do a minor post. Sorry, but heat and such make excitement a bit scarce.
.
I have not had but one day here at the cave, to myself, in a while now. But I am not complaining. I have been out target practicing three times recently, business took a few days, and the auto needed an oil change and a minor recall taken care of today. Tomorrow I plan on going shooting again. But this time I am going to buy a target paper holder and target paper. I know the guns are doing well, finally, but I need to know how well, what changes I can make, and then get going on making the final adjustments. As well, I will be taking swimming trunks. Near the place I shoot in Logan Valley, there happens to be a stream. It is not a tiny little thing and it is not a full out river either. There are areas beavers or something have dammed it which provide handy little wading pools. Though it is not as cold as spring, it should provide enough cooling for my needs. I have been eying the little water greedily lately, and know I must take the plunge.
As well, and in spite of the cost for us out-of-staters, I really have to get a fishing license. I am so hungry for fish and the water looks good. I may have to get some water footwear too, as half of my last pair went away in the white-water event of '08. I can handle the cold, especially now. But some of my gear is still in storage. I do have my fishing gear out, but I could use some other things from storage. I will have to make that more of a priority. I need several things, from clothes, to gear, to books now.
I am getting more comfortable with the temps and dryness hereabouts. I need to moisturize much less often, and the heat is bearable if I can get out of it from time to time. I suspect that by the time it cools off, I will be ready for summer. The good thing is, I think winter here will be a breeze. I fully intend to figure out cross-country skiing this year. Maybe by December, when my lady friend suggests she will visit, I will be competent enough to take her out for that a time or two. Who knows though, she is a kook.
I really need to begin going through my stuff. I would like to get calculus under my belt again. I can do that in a few weeks if I push it. Then I can keep it sort of on top with a half a dozen hours of study a week. Physics needs to be studied as well. I would like to go over differential equations before too long, as well, but I do not have a good study pack for that, yet. I have not tried to make contact at the school yet, I suspect everyone is gone. Maybe in a week or two though, I will call and see if an adviser or professor or two is available and would be interested in discussing school.
I saw that I had not updated for the last few days. Though there really is not too much going on, I decided to do a minor post. Sorry, but heat and such make excitement a bit scarce.
Monday, July 20, 2009
At it again.
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.
I have become used to it being 82 F in my apartment, and even going out and doing things on 90 to 100 F days. It has been a struggle. Drinking many types of fluid. Taking a breather when need be. Whatever. And I have become used to the arid nature of this new state. Moisturizer, and again water, plus a little closer attention to clues my body is giving off. Salt, too, in many forms, has become my friend. What I cannot yet do, well, or really at all, is to sleep when it is over 76 F. So, here I sit.
Now that the A/C has been off for a while, and as the night has gone on and the outside temps have dropped a bit, perhaps it will work well enough so that I may get some sleep. I have a few things to do tomorrow though I need not be awake too early to get to them. And yet I would like to work my schedule around so that I am up by 7:00 or 8:00. That requires getting to sleep around 21:00 to 22:00.
I will figure it out. At least I have nothing demanding that I be up early, so far. I suppose I just like to struggle. And struggle I do. Good night.
.
I have become used to it being 82 F in my apartment, and even going out and doing things on 90 to 100 F days. It has been a struggle. Drinking many types of fluid. Taking a breather when need be. Whatever. And I have become used to the arid nature of this new state. Moisturizer, and again water, plus a little closer attention to clues my body is giving off. Salt, too, in many forms, has become my friend. What I cannot yet do, well, or really at all, is to sleep when it is over 76 F. So, here I sit.
Now that the A/C has been off for a while, and as the night has gone on and the outside temps have dropped a bit, perhaps it will work well enough so that I may get some sleep. I have a few things to do tomorrow though I need not be awake too early to get to them. And yet I would like to work my schedule around so that I am up by 7:00 or 8:00. That requires getting to sleep around 21:00 to 22:00.
I will figure it out. At least I have nothing demanding that I be up early, so far. I suppose I just like to struggle. And struggle I do. Good night.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Target shooting and sightseeing.
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.
I should have gone to church today, but I really want to scope out the places during the weekday when it is easier to get in and out. I have finally found the church, the second church that is, if I had not mentioned it. So, today, instead, my neighbor and myself went around the valley. He has lived here most of his life and all of his childhood and young adult years, so he knows a thing or two. He cannot drive currently, and has not been able to for some time. We end up making a pretty good team, as such. He knows where to go, I can and will drive. It might end up a daily thing. The only thing bad for him, I do not allow smoking in my vehicle. But we take breaks often enough for him I think.
Today we went south. In trying to find a place to shoot near a dam and it's reservoir, if unsuccessfully due to the weekend crowds, he showed me some good places to fish. We also happened to drive by the Osmond's farmstead, hunting lodge, or second (third, fourth?) house out in the boonies a bit. I saw a lot of good country. As well, I know more surely where I would like to live. As well, and just by happenstance, the old road we ended up upon heading south is a shortcut to Ogden. If it has a lower allowed speed, it is half the length and a lot more scenic. I will probably take that rout as it will cut my gas usage in half, perhaps quarter it with the lower speeds. As I told him, I have more time then money and I prefer the quieter roads. It might be tricky in the winter, I will just have to find out.
It amazes me that I can drive from city to real country in such a short distance. I think the reason so much of the Southern area has stayed countrified is due to the lack of real space to expand. Builders want vast tracts they can exploit, not dinky areas they have to hedge around mountain, water, and other large problems. Yes, south of Logan is where I want to be. In 15 minutes I can drive from there to college or town. The roads are good and look to be kept well winter and summer. I would much rather have a farmer friend or 5 a half mile away than a city slicker of unknown nature 20 to 50 feet away any day. Fresh hay, horse and cattle smells, alfalfa, a meandering stream, that feels like home.
Since it is Sunday, and though I have written a bit, I thought I would write about another Christian topic. Being a good man.
I was talking with a young man, a pseudo atheist, about being good. I call him a pseudo atheist because, though raised in a Christian home, he really did not believe, or even seem to understand Christianity, or what the big fuss is about. I was not really interested in evangelizing and he was not interested in being converted, but we did hit upon a topic that was of interest to both of us. That topic regarding being good and what being a good man really meant.
He initialized it by saying that since he tried to do the right things and believed in good things, that he was indeed a good man. I sort of chuckled at this and though he did initially become a bit angry and defensive, I calmed him down enough to engage him. I suggested that I was not really laughing at him, just the simplistic notions that are being developed in the young by the school systems today.
To be a good man, for one, is very simplistic. In the secular world, it means, well, nothing other than feeling good about yourself. There are no rules to it. There is no means of measuring it, unless you say that committing a crime is a bad thing. But that carries little weight, as colleges love to hire high profile "ex"-terrorists, their mouthpieces, and such. So, really, being good in secular terms is completely fiction. You cannot be good and secular. You can only feel good and be secular, if in a very shallow way.
Being good, in my understanding, is actually impossible on one's own. The closest we, in my circle, can ever get is to do good deeds and abstain from doing things that are sinful. Doing a good deed requires several things. The first thing is that the deed be intentional and willfully aimed at being a good deed. The next is that the deed must be carried out with that same intention until it is completed (the means, in other words, must also be good). Finally, the deed must truly end up in a beneficent result (the ends must be successful and good). Barring any of those three things, no good deed, no matter how well intentioned, carried out, or the result, is actually a good deed. He looked a little baffled and asked some silly (yes, there are silly questions) questions. So, I went a little further.
I suggested that he imagine that developing then producing a good apple was a good deed. I suggested that the secular world would laud him for just the notion. But I said, that is not the same thing. To do the good apple, one must do a lot of work. First, one must research apples, people's tastes, growing seasons, soils, and locations, and then begin forming an idea about which apples to try to combine to make a certain taste, consistency, texture, and such. Then, one must find a place where all of those apple types may be grown, which apple tree type to be the main and which to splice, and then figure out all of the splicing needed. Then, after years, or more like decades, of work, he might produce a good apple.
Further, however, is this. Even if he happens to produce a wondrous apple, will everyone like it? Well, no. Some people simply do not like apples. Some people are allergic to apples. Other people who do like apples will not like that particular apple. So, even this good deed is limited in scope. Much as good deeds may truly be.
My remedy may be simple, but it is this. First, accept that you cannot be good to perfection or even close. Second, decide what to do about it. But understand, just because you feel good about yourself or your deeds, really look at those and see if that is deserved. Good deeds are a lot of work. As for myself, I try to keep my attempts at good deeds small. Little things done well, and lots of them, do more for the world than medium or large deeds, especially should they go astray. I do not have, as yet, the tools to do the right thing on any kind of scale. So a little time spent with someone I know needs it, setting aside my dragons breath, scales, an claws here, asking if others need help and then helping if so there, and other small things. I still fail. I fail to spend the time, to ask, and sometimes simply to do anything.
I do not know if this meant a thing to him, in the end. I think it sounded a bit complicated. But too, I think it bothered him that his teacher's belief that he was a great guy just because he was a guy and they were in school together might be wrong. I planted a little seed. I only hope it grows. I cannot even say that it was a good deed, it was not technically forethought. Though, it could be argued, I think about these things and try to implement that thought when encountering contrary thought. Then again, perhaps my initial laugh was in poor form, therefore nixing the thing. I cannot say for sure, but I can hope, for him and me.
Good night.
.
I should have gone to church today, but I really want to scope out the places during the weekday when it is easier to get in and out. I have finally found the church, the second church that is, if I had not mentioned it. So, today, instead, my neighbor and myself went around the valley. He has lived here most of his life and all of his childhood and young adult years, so he knows a thing or two. He cannot drive currently, and has not been able to for some time. We end up making a pretty good team, as such. He knows where to go, I can and will drive. It might end up a daily thing. The only thing bad for him, I do not allow smoking in my vehicle. But we take breaks often enough for him I think.
Today we went south. In trying to find a place to shoot near a dam and it's reservoir, if unsuccessfully due to the weekend crowds, he showed me some good places to fish. We also happened to drive by the Osmond's farmstead, hunting lodge, or second (third, fourth?) house out in the boonies a bit. I saw a lot of good country. As well, I know more surely where I would like to live. As well, and just by happenstance, the old road we ended up upon heading south is a shortcut to Ogden. If it has a lower allowed speed, it is half the length and a lot more scenic. I will probably take that rout as it will cut my gas usage in half, perhaps quarter it with the lower speeds. As I told him, I have more time then money and I prefer the quieter roads. It might be tricky in the winter, I will just have to find out.
It amazes me that I can drive from city to real country in such a short distance. I think the reason so much of the Southern area has stayed countrified is due to the lack of real space to expand. Builders want vast tracts they can exploit, not dinky areas they have to hedge around mountain, water, and other large problems. Yes, south of Logan is where I want to be. In 15 minutes I can drive from there to college or town. The roads are good and look to be kept well winter and summer. I would much rather have a farmer friend or 5 a half mile away than a city slicker of unknown nature 20 to 50 feet away any day. Fresh hay, horse and cattle smells, alfalfa, a meandering stream, that feels like home.
Since it is Sunday, and though I have written a bit, I thought I would write about another Christian topic. Being a good man.
I was talking with a young man, a pseudo atheist, about being good. I call him a pseudo atheist because, though raised in a Christian home, he really did not believe, or even seem to understand Christianity, or what the big fuss is about. I was not really interested in evangelizing and he was not interested in being converted, but we did hit upon a topic that was of interest to both of us. That topic regarding being good and what being a good man really meant.
He initialized it by saying that since he tried to do the right things and believed in good things, that he was indeed a good man. I sort of chuckled at this and though he did initially become a bit angry and defensive, I calmed him down enough to engage him. I suggested that I was not really laughing at him, just the simplistic notions that are being developed in the young by the school systems today.
To be a good man, for one, is very simplistic. In the secular world, it means, well, nothing other than feeling good about yourself. There are no rules to it. There is no means of measuring it, unless you say that committing a crime is a bad thing. But that carries little weight, as colleges love to hire high profile "ex"-terrorists, their mouthpieces, and such. So, really, being good in secular terms is completely fiction. You cannot be good and secular. You can only feel good and be secular, if in a very shallow way.
Being good, in my understanding, is actually impossible on one's own. The closest we, in my circle, can ever get is to do good deeds and abstain from doing things that are sinful. Doing a good deed requires several things. The first thing is that the deed be intentional and willfully aimed at being a good deed. The next is that the deed must be carried out with that same intention until it is completed (the means, in other words, must also be good). Finally, the deed must truly end up in a beneficent result (the ends must be successful and good). Barring any of those three things, no good deed, no matter how well intentioned, carried out, or the result, is actually a good deed. He looked a little baffled and asked some silly (yes, there are silly questions) questions. So, I went a little further.
I suggested that he imagine that developing then producing a good apple was a good deed. I suggested that the secular world would laud him for just the notion. But I said, that is not the same thing. To do the good apple, one must do a lot of work. First, one must research apples, people's tastes, growing seasons, soils, and locations, and then begin forming an idea about which apples to try to combine to make a certain taste, consistency, texture, and such. Then, one must find a place where all of those apple types may be grown, which apple tree type to be the main and which to splice, and then figure out all of the splicing needed. Then, after years, or more like decades, of work, he might produce a good apple.
Further, however, is this. Even if he happens to produce a wondrous apple, will everyone like it? Well, no. Some people simply do not like apples. Some people are allergic to apples. Other people who do like apples will not like that particular apple. So, even this good deed is limited in scope. Much as good deeds may truly be.
My remedy may be simple, but it is this. First, accept that you cannot be good to perfection or even close. Second, decide what to do about it. But understand, just because you feel good about yourself or your deeds, really look at those and see if that is deserved. Good deeds are a lot of work. As for myself, I try to keep my attempts at good deeds small. Little things done well, and lots of them, do more for the world than medium or large deeds, especially should they go astray. I do not have, as yet, the tools to do the right thing on any kind of scale. So a little time spent with someone I know needs it, setting aside my dragons breath, scales, an claws here, asking if others need help and then helping if so there, and other small things. I still fail. I fail to spend the time, to ask, and sometimes simply to do anything.
I do not know if this meant a thing to him, in the end. I think it sounded a bit complicated. But too, I think it bothered him that his teacher's belief that he was a great guy just because he was a guy and they were in school together might be wrong. I planted a little seed. I only hope it grows. I cannot even say that it was a good deed, it was not technically forethought. Though, it could be argued, I think about these things and try to implement that thought when encountering contrary thought. Then again, perhaps my initial laugh was in poor form, therefore nixing the thing. I cannot say for sure, but I can hope, for him and me.
Good night.
God, the world, and all.
.
.
327.235, I think.
Well, maybe not. Unless you believe scientists have it, then it might as well be the answer.
Reading at Vox has been entertaining this way lately. It is interesting watching people with no faith trying to explain why they have no faith or prove that having no faith is correct. It is much like watching a kitten with a ball of yarn. If it was not so prevalent, it would be cute. But those kittens grow up to be monsters, and those monsters are the ones "ruling" this nation, and most others, currently. Not much to do about it other than to revolt, burn down the Ivory Towers, and exile those in power to the nations that currently exhibit their brand of death culture. Or, as is more likely, become persecuted to near extinction. Obama would fit right in in North Korea. His logic "works" there.
As for the ongoing 'debate', though. Vox does well with his arguments. I see no reason to add. Though often his debate style is more formal, so I decided to try my hand at it here, using methods that I prefer. I suppose the reason I am not an apologist is because my ways are based within faith and I am not interested in arguing the matters. I simply state why and that is all.
As for the world, and physical reality, and God, here is my go. While it is true that God is not all (animism, is what that would be), the way God can know all and be everywhere (though and again, not be everything), is that God made the world (henceforth world will mean everything physical). He designed the laws that govern what is, He knew what would happen if he did not just make it happen. In so doing, the world is within God, not the other way around. Time, space, the physical laws, and reality itself are sort of like a program a perfect programmer might write. More complex than any human writer could possibly imagine, and it works more flawlessly and seamlessly then seems possible, but it is the way of it.
As such, God does is neither defined by His creation nor is He in particular control of it (free will), at least where man is concerned. And yet, by defining or programming reality, His will is yet completely present and His definitions are paramount. What He has set forth will follow in their times, as he set forth, if not at a particular time. If something fails this time, because His chosen fails to do His will via free will, it will come around again with another chosen until it does happen. Programmers know this logic.
Why God is not subject to the program is much like why a programmer's life has little to do with his program. The programmer's life is centered around his values, his family, his boss, his interests, and such. The program he wrote does a specific task, once set in play, which impacts the programmer's life not a bit. The program functions as intended, if done rightly, on a little electronic device (or in this case the world), and probably at the behest of those who requested the work (in this case, God is both the writer and the client). God, too, lives outside of the program. Beyond, should He want, he has the capacity to rewrite the program as He might choose. My belief, however, is that he has no need to rewrite the program. All miracles, Christ's life, death, and resurrection, and other things that seem outside of what we know of the program, were all programmed in. It is our ignorance of the program, not some odd revision to the program, which surprises and astounds us.
Though in dark times, it might seem that God has abandoned us to dark people. It may seem God has turned his back on us. But if a closer view is taken, it is easy to note that it was not God who turned his back on us and left us to die. It is we who have turned our back on God and chosen evil instead of good. And, we will pay for it. It has always been this way, and it will be this way until none of us stand.
In spite of Vox's arguments, or mine, I believe the man he is arguing with and his ilk, now "rule". They will not be dissuaded, they cannot be debated, and they have no interest in the means, only in the ends. As I said, a kitten and a ball of yarn, only they have indeed grown, grown in numbers and power. It is the new boomer generation. And, they are murderous for their new faith (in science, government, socialism, a mix, or whatever). I worry about it, though too, I hand this worry to God. After all, it is His ball of yarn with which they play. Their claws, now long and bloody, are His too. They are within Him, not the other way around, despite any debate they might put forth.
As is obvious, they do not even realize that, even in the darkness they bring, they are His tools. They will do His bidding. They will serve those who have called them to power with the justice of God as they so richly deserve. Honestly, though, I think they know. I think they despise that there is something out there beyond them, I know they would love to flush God from man even as they believe in their own corrupted way, but even they know the most draconian of their governances have been unable to do so. Now, too, I would suggest the Christian lites of the world leave the Church. Go be humanists or whatever. If your names are on the roll, having voted for Obama will not save you. Leave the Church and become the dark tools that you are at a safe distance.
Well, I will stop there. I erased some of it, but nothing more than extra rant. Maybe I should have stopped with the programming theme. Who knows.
Have a great Sunday.
.
327.235, I think.
Well, maybe not. Unless you believe scientists have it, then it might as well be the answer.
Reading at Vox has been entertaining this way lately. It is interesting watching people with no faith trying to explain why they have no faith or prove that having no faith is correct. It is much like watching a kitten with a ball of yarn. If it was not so prevalent, it would be cute. But those kittens grow up to be monsters, and those monsters are the ones "ruling" this nation, and most others, currently. Not much to do about it other than to revolt, burn down the Ivory Towers, and exile those in power to the nations that currently exhibit their brand of death culture. Or, as is more likely, become persecuted to near extinction. Obama would fit right in in North Korea. His logic "works" there.
As for the ongoing 'debate', though. Vox does well with his arguments. I see no reason to add. Though often his debate style is more formal, so I decided to try my hand at it here, using methods that I prefer. I suppose the reason I am not an apologist is because my ways are based within faith and I am not interested in arguing the matters. I simply state why and that is all.
As for the world, and physical reality, and God, here is my go. While it is true that God is not all (animism, is what that would be), the way God can know all and be everywhere (though and again, not be everything), is that God made the world (henceforth world will mean everything physical). He designed the laws that govern what is, He knew what would happen if he did not just make it happen. In so doing, the world is within God, not the other way around. Time, space, the physical laws, and reality itself are sort of like a program a perfect programmer might write. More complex than any human writer could possibly imagine, and it works more flawlessly and seamlessly then seems possible, but it is the way of it.
As such, God does is neither defined by His creation nor is He in particular control of it (free will), at least where man is concerned. And yet, by defining or programming reality, His will is yet completely present and His definitions are paramount. What He has set forth will follow in their times, as he set forth, if not at a particular time. If something fails this time, because His chosen fails to do His will via free will, it will come around again with another chosen until it does happen. Programmers know this logic.
Why God is not subject to the program is much like why a programmer's life has little to do with his program. The programmer's life is centered around his values, his family, his boss, his interests, and such. The program he wrote does a specific task, once set in play, which impacts the programmer's life not a bit. The program functions as intended, if done rightly, on a little electronic device (or in this case the world), and probably at the behest of those who requested the work (in this case, God is both the writer and the client). God, too, lives outside of the program. Beyond, should He want, he has the capacity to rewrite the program as He might choose. My belief, however, is that he has no need to rewrite the program. All miracles, Christ's life, death, and resurrection, and other things that seem outside of what we know of the program, were all programmed in. It is our ignorance of the program, not some odd revision to the program, which surprises and astounds us.
Though in dark times, it might seem that God has abandoned us to dark people. It may seem God has turned his back on us. But if a closer view is taken, it is easy to note that it was not God who turned his back on us and left us to die. It is we who have turned our back on God and chosen evil instead of good. And, we will pay for it. It has always been this way, and it will be this way until none of us stand.
In spite of Vox's arguments, or mine, I believe the man he is arguing with and his ilk, now "rule". They will not be dissuaded, they cannot be debated, and they have no interest in the means, only in the ends. As I said, a kitten and a ball of yarn, only they have indeed grown, grown in numbers and power. It is the new boomer generation. And, they are murderous for their new faith (in science, government, socialism, a mix, or whatever). I worry about it, though too, I hand this worry to God. After all, it is His ball of yarn with which they play. Their claws, now long and bloody, are His too. They are within Him, not the other way around, despite any debate they might put forth.
As is obvious, they do not even realize that, even in the darkness they bring, they are His tools. They will do His bidding. They will serve those who have called them to power with the justice of God as they so richly deserve. Honestly, though, I think they know. I think they despise that there is something out there beyond them, I know they would love to flush God from man even as they believe in their own corrupted way, but even they know the most draconian of their governances have been unable to do so. Now, too, I would suggest the Christian lites of the world leave the Church. Go be humanists or whatever. If your names are on the roll, having voted for Obama will not save you. Leave the Church and become the dark tools that you are at a safe distance.
Well, I will stop there. I erased some of it, but nothing more than extra rant. Maybe I should have stopped with the programming theme. Who knows.
Have a great Sunday.
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