.
.
I can work. I had a great deal of difficulty doing yardwork in Iowa. It was not just the heat and humidity. Though that did play a part. I was in pretty rough shape. I was able to work this evening almost without effort. I did some mowing and some weed whipping. A storm blew in though and that was pretty much it. Still, the sweet taste of success in knowing that I can work is great. Not only that, but I enjoyed it. Not like, say, a computer game. But knowing that my yard was becoming a real yard and not just a wild land, a feral lawn, was simply good.
Tomatoes are coming on in larger numbers. About the time my mother showed up, the plants really took off. Now I have a half dozen to a dozen tomatoes going and perhaps a half a dozen jalapenos. I realize now that what I had thought was green peppers is jalapenos. I will have some hot salsa soon! We took care of the east side and the front of the house. I have gone through 2 weed whip cords. I have 3 left, so those are on the list for tomorrow. Many more will be needed. Both the lawnmower and weed whip are doing all I could have hoped. Hopefully I will be able to find a wheelbarrow tomorrow for a few heavier jobs. Hmmm, I best get another shovel, the slim spade will not do for some of the dirt moving needed. So much is required just to do the standard work around a home!
Tomorrow cardboard will be taken in, breakfast will be eaten, shopping will be done, and then we will return home. A lunch of some sort, a nap very possibly, and then another evening on the yard. I am amazed at what is being done, by both of us. I have never understood my mother, and never could quite keep up (or even close) let alone keep up with normals. I am, finally, about a normal person. At least in capacity with some direction. I am learning many things from her. For example, some of the trees (evergreens in the well cooked front yard) are being watered. I was not sure whether to do that or not. There are many other things I have asked, and quite usually she knows.
No, a woman cannot claim to be equal. She can prove, however, that she is better... if in her ways. And, she is in this area. The good news is I have the time, opportunity, and interest in trying to catch up. Perhaps even surpass. There are things I can do she would need to hire out... potentially. A chainsaw, a ladder, and a little bit of thinking should see me clear to removing dead branches high in the trees. I even have some climbing gear and various rope for safety and controlled ascent of both myself and limbs. We will see though. But knowledge... for me to hope to catch up it will take... many many years. Yes, she may not be equal, but she may be superior. And, no, this is not a new thought... it is merely that no one who doubted asked the right question.
I must admit, I cannot feel the water as softer. I may not have it set to the right grains or perhaps it was not as hard as all that? I simply do not know. I can, however, taste it. The reverse osmosis water itself only tasted slightly different. The water, when softened, now tastes much better. I do not understand all that, but that is fine too.
Oh, after clearing the east side of the house, I realize I have a fine strip of land there for gardening. I will have to remove some smaller boulders and rocks, and I will be planting a tree over there as well which in time may limit that. But next year I have a great place to plant a ton of tobacco plants. I have two areas in the back lined up for various gardening needs. In one area I will plant things that are more or less static plants, in the other I will have more area demanding things, such as cucumbers, squash, or even pumpkins or watermelon. My mother suggests that I till the ground this fall, before frost hits, mixing in a general local fertilizer mix, in preparation for spring. She wants to visit about planting time to help me get going with that and, I think, to visit. As well, she enjoys having time apart from the world as she has known it for many years now. Both of her sons need her. And again, she is there. There is nothing more gratifying for a mother than to help her sons, one dealing with a severe disability and one trying and maybe succeeding in coming out of disability. Next time though, there will be no heavy work here. Just advising. I am different and getting better.
I have decided to contact whoever about medical training. First aid and then first responders. With that, I will volunteer locally. I would like to limit it to less severe things, but it does not work that way. I need these skills and want the equipment. There is no better of a way and reason to both gain and upgrade skills and equipment than to have a need to do so. And, so it will be. I flew this by my mother to good results. Yes, gearing up, learning, and helping. I am almost breathing again.
Well, good night. It is time to put the body down and rest well and deservedly. A long week it has been and more is yet to be done. Good night all.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Better late then never?
.
.
I set the alarm for 8:00. My mother knew though, that I would not be up at 8:00. I had watched a movie, Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. It ran longer than I remembered. Dude, blue-ray is okay. And I tinkered with sound and it is better, if not quite what I am hoping. Though if I sit in the exact right place, it is even better if still not as good as my old system. I need to figure out how to make the sound sweet spot bigger. Anyway... between staying up later and the work, I did not hear the alarm until 9:00. At which time my mother reminded me we had things to do. I asked for another hour, which she had no problem with. Hmm, I think it was 11:00 before I rolled out like a snail lump. She had a look on her face at that time that told me, "Fine, but I am not happy now." Heh And she was not. So, getting up seemed the gentlemanly (safe) thing to do.
We did little this morning, both of us were tired. So, a slow roll up to my appointment time, a shower, and to town I went. As I was about to leave, though, the cable guy showed up. Now we have regular television. Mum is happy. She is a news junky too, if not for any specific reason. And, of course for her, Oxygen "women's" channel. But, it is her thing. No shopping or other such tomfoolery was in the offing thankfully. So, after a quick appointment, I was back home. A little bit to eat while she watched "Bad Girls", or "Snapped", or something.
Since then I have pulled out the weed whip, oiled and gassed it, started it as a check, then did the same for the lawnmower. Everything has been sized and set up for use, but it is still a bit hot. As it cools this evening, I will be whipping some weeds. Everything worked well, started easily, and will do just fine. Another hour or so and I can start that. My mother has been breaking down boxes. Tomorrow we will start out early, drop off the boxes at a recycling center, have breakfast, then do some shopping she wishes to do.
I suggested we start making a list of things I can be doing over time. She suggested putting a steel door on the back porch area, rather than a new door and storm door. I will consider this, though I made no promises. As well, I need to get a motion light above the garage. I would also like to do the same to the front and side (main) entrances, though not on the porch entrance for now. I will have to look at the technologies available, as I want lights I can turn on and have them stay on, turn on so that they act as timed motion lights, or turn off. Some of them used to not have that much variability in them. A garage door opener, a locking knob handle for the garage as well, and maybe a new screen/storm door for the side entrance. I know new windows are on the list for the living room, "den" (for now), and two bedrooms downstairs. The rest of the house is good, though some of the windows need lacquer and the mechanisms could use a spot of oil. I have DW-40, which might work, though I want to be sure before using it. There are other things, but that is the general list, so far, that I can recall. There will be other things we find, and things I find on my own. I still have not gotten to the chicken coop, but that is a before fall thing. I simply do not want it to winter open again. perhaps painting the structures themselves as well. All money, time, and energy dependent, but all but money is improving. Frugality has a place, and this too I will have to learn.
Just a bit more insight into the life and times here. I need to put some computer games on the machine, games my mom likes, then watch a bit of tv while the outside world cools. And then weed whipping... finally! And, yes, actually, I am excited!
Later.
.
I set the alarm for 8:00. My mother knew though, that I would not be up at 8:00. I had watched a movie, Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. It ran longer than I remembered. Dude, blue-ray is okay. And I tinkered with sound and it is better, if not quite what I am hoping. Though if I sit in the exact right place, it is even better if still not as good as my old system. I need to figure out how to make the sound sweet spot bigger. Anyway... between staying up later and the work, I did not hear the alarm until 9:00. At which time my mother reminded me we had things to do. I asked for another hour, which she had no problem with. Hmm, I think it was 11:00 before I rolled out like a snail lump. She had a look on her face at that time that told me, "Fine, but I am not happy now." Heh And she was not. So, getting up seemed the gentlemanly (safe) thing to do.
We did little this morning, both of us were tired. So, a slow roll up to my appointment time, a shower, and to town I went. As I was about to leave, though, the cable guy showed up. Now we have regular television. Mum is happy. She is a news junky too, if not for any specific reason. And, of course for her, Oxygen "women's" channel. But, it is her thing. No shopping or other such tomfoolery was in the offing thankfully. So, after a quick appointment, I was back home. A little bit to eat while she watched "Bad Girls", or "Snapped", or something.
Since then I have pulled out the weed whip, oiled and gassed it, started it as a check, then did the same for the lawnmower. Everything has been sized and set up for use, but it is still a bit hot. As it cools this evening, I will be whipping some weeds. Everything worked well, started easily, and will do just fine. Another hour or so and I can start that. My mother has been breaking down boxes. Tomorrow we will start out early, drop off the boxes at a recycling center, have breakfast, then do some shopping she wishes to do.
I suggested we start making a list of things I can be doing over time. She suggested putting a steel door on the back porch area, rather than a new door and storm door. I will consider this, though I made no promises. As well, I need to get a motion light above the garage. I would also like to do the same to the front and side (main) entrances, though not on the porch entrance for now. I will have to look at the technologies available, as I want lights I can turn on and have them stay on, turn on so that they act as timed motion lights, or turn off. Some of them used to not have that much variability in them. A garage door opener, a locking knob handle for the garage as well, and maybe a new screen/storm door for the side entrance. I know new windows are on the list for the living room, "den" (for now), and two bedrooms downstairs. The rest of the house is good, though some of the windows need lacquer and the mechanisms could use a spot of oil. I have DW-40, which might work, though I want to be sure before using it. There are other things, but that is the general list, so far, that I can recall. There will be other things we find, and things I find on my own. I still have not gotten to the chicken coop, but that is a before fall thing. I simply do not want it to winter open again. perhaps painting the structures themselves as well. All money, time, and energy dependent, but all but money is improving. Frugality has a place, and this too I will have to learn.
Just a bit more insight into the life and times here. I need to put some computer games on the machine, games my mom likes, then watch a bit of tv while the outside world cools. And then weed whipping... finally! And, yes, actually, I am excited!
Later.
So much more.
.
.
For me, another long day in town. Here and there, and finally picking up the weed whip. It was very hot in town, traffic either runs very slow or very fast, and the sun just pounded me. Crowds in all the stores save Sears. Strangers, if not actually aggressive or even terribly ugly, are strangers still. If I saw no hatred, too, I saw no friends. In the ugly heat, that is more than a man wants to face all day. And yet, so much is done by it that it is worth the price.
My mother has continued to work. She is accomplishing what, to me, is miraculous. She has dug in and worked like few can. I have done my utmost to simply comply with her requests from me. I have had to ask for breathers from time to time, I simply cannot be doing something for hours on end. I do bodily overheat. As well, I weary in an odd way. I would not call it physical exhaustion so much as spiritual exhaustion. I simply can do no more. How she does it I do not know.
This house is truly becoming a home. And, with how I have been doing here, I should be able to keep it up rather well. We have more to do, and much will be done, but we are both needing some time off. However, not quite yet. Tomorrow morning I will be starting up the weed whip. After looking things over while using it, a plan will then be created for mowing. Though mowing will not be done tomorrow. If I can do the trim, perhaps even all of it, tomorrow, plus my appointment, I will be pleased. More than that, I cannot promise. I am... well over my limit.
We will see what we will see. Oh, I have viewed the television with the home theater. To be honest, I was a bit surprised by both. I thought the home theater would be a bit better and that blue-ray would be a dud. It seems just the opposite. I will tinker with the sound, though I am not sure what more I can pull out of it or add to it. The stand, it seems, is really bad. I may have to take it back and get something else. I do not wish to mount it on the wall or simply set it on something in the provided stand. One is too unsure (I do not trust stud finders' ability to actually find the center of the stud for supporting such a heavy item) and the stand is far to unstable. Who knows. On another matter, I purchased salt for the water softener today and loaded the first amount. I should have soft water in the morning. This will help with some things, such as stains and scale, as well as be better for washing body and clothing. It will extend the life of the reverse osmosis system as well.
We have decided to put off going to the Great Salt Lake until Monday. Friday we will do the last, probably, shopping trip. This time she will be going with me. She has things in her mind and wants to tend that. Only two or three shops are on the list. Perhaps we will also drive up Logan Canyon and on the way home I can drive on up to Idaho so she can say she has been there. Who knows what will happen though, plans change like the wind and sometimes with it.
Good night.
.
For me, another long day in town. Here and there, and finally picking up the weed whip. It was very hot in town, traffic either runs very slow or very fast, and the sun just pounded me. Crowds in all the stores save Sears. Strangers, if not actually aggressive or even terribly ugly, are strangers still. If I saw no hatred, too, I saw no friends. In the ugly heat, that is more than a man wants to face all day. And yet, so much is done by it that it is worth the price.
My mother has continued to work. She is accomplishing what, to me, is miraculous. She has dug in and worked like few can. I have done my utmost to simply comply with her requests from me. I have had to ask for breathers from time to time, I simply cannot be doing something for hours on end. I do bodily overheat. As well, I weary in an odd way. I would not call it physical exhaustion so much as spiritual exhaustion. I simply can do no more. How she does it I do not know.
This house is truly becoming a home. And, with how I have been doing here, I should be able to keep it up rather well. We have more to do, and much will be done, but we are both needing some time off. However, not quite yet. Tomorrow morning I will be starting up the weed whip. After looking things over while using it, a plan will then be created for mowing. Though mowing will not be done tomorrow. If I can do the trim, perhaps even all of it, tomorrow, plus my appointment, I will be pleased. More than that, I cannot promise. I am... well over my limit.
We will see what we will see. Oh, I have viewed the television with the home theater. To be honest, I was a bit surprised by both. I thought the home theater would be a bit better and that blue-ray would be a dud. It seems just the opposite. I will tinker with the sound, though I am not sure what more I can pull out of it or add to it. The stand, it seems, is really bad. I may have to take it back and get something else. I do not wish to mount it on the wall or simply set it on something in the provided stand. One is too unsure (I do not trust stud finders' ability to actually find the center of the stud for supporting such a heavy item) and the stand is far to unstable. Who knows. On another matter, I purchased salt for the water softener today and loaded the first amount. I should have soft water in the morning. This will help with some things, such as stains and scale, as well as be better for washing body and clothing. It will extend the life of the reverse osmosis system as well.
We have decided to put off going to the Great Salt Lake until Monday. Friday we will do the last, probably, shopping trip. This time she will be going with me. She has things in her mind and wants to tend that. Only two or three shops are on the list. Perhaps we will also drive up Logan Canyon and on the way home I can drive on up to Idaho so she can say she has been there. Who knows what will happen though, plans change like the wind and sometimes with it.
Good night.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
A long day.
.
.
I did help up until my appointment, and after waking up. There is not a lot I can do and I would complain about how she is doing things (perfectionism is a problem with unpacking, sorting, and such, for me) or she would do the same to me when tasked with doing things she wanted. We have totally different styles and approaches to many things. Still, being a general help and having her instruct me to do something in another room, or simply being a mechanical device relating to strength or height, and we do fine.
After my first trip into town to get cash for the installation, the installer for the water softener and reverse osmosis arrived. I asked that he install a water shutoff system with the softener and a cutoff valve for the r.o. system. That was installed while I was in town. I had no room for salt for the softener, so that is on the list for tomorrow.
She had thought I would finish with everything and be home in an hour or so. It takes me an half hour to get to town. My appointments can last an hour and a half. That does not include time for shopping or picking up items. She was not upset, just a little worried. After the appointment, I went shopping. She had a list and it will be the majority of what she wanted for home. The list was long and varied, included items for home and things she needed. Beyond that, I found items we had discussed or which would flush out some of the other purchases. Then I drove to Sears to pick up the television. The weed whip is in but I simply had no room for it, the television, and what I had shopped earlier. Tomorrow, most likely, will see me with that last device.
I was able to set the television and home theater up. I cannot tell if they run yet, as the receptacle behind them does not work. A little frustrated, I took a bit of time to do my internet stuff. While cooling down, I decided to try something. The receptacle next to the one I tried to use does work but of course the cords will not reach. However, the computer protective plug in unit might work. Some of the things I bought today were more rugs. My mother laid one in a place that should keep the cord safe, if it will reach.
Everything is coming together well. She has the kitchen and living room in prime order. I am not sure what she has planned tomorrow. But I think it involves me and lots of work all day long. Fine, fine, though I will make a request. That is, she give me whatever tasks and go do her own list. We do not work well together. When we get fussy about the task at hand, we both can take it out on each other. As I said, we do things so very differently that trying to help each other is a frustrating thing, even if we are both truly trying. When I say move something up... she invariably moves it down thinking that is what I meant. Neither of us are stupid, or even ignorant, we just run on different voltages and probably sources. She is more DC, I think. I am AC and at least three cycle (just because it seems that I am doing nothing does not mean I am not, though I might be doing nothing, Ha!).
I have to snack on something. Then try the tv and sound system, if the cord will reach. And then, hit it. It has, indeed, been a long day. So far though, the work really has not be a problem. A scheduled Friday off, to see the Salt Lake, will help us both to keep focus and move ahead I think, too. Without a known break, I cannot just go on and on. She, I think, can. Did I mention she is nearly 71? Yeah, and a Mack Truck powerhouse of a dame at that. *beep beep* She just helped my brother and his wife move in a few months ago. He has had back surgery and is still... not functional. His Mrs. is working full time, and then some perhaps. Along with some barely teen and nearing teen daughters... They needed help.
Well, good night. I will, as I always do, pray for those in need, those who need more than money can buy, those 'with' to do the right things, the Church and Her (and our) guides, the sick, the lame, dolts and snots, associates, friends, family, and then my enemies. So, you should be included in there, maybe several times in several ways. You are welcome. Again, good night.
.
I did help up until my appointment, and after waking up. There is not a lot I can do and I would complain about how she is doing things (perfectionism is a problem with unpacking, sorting, and such, for me) or she would do the same to me when tasked with doing things she wanted. We have totally different styles and approaches to many things. Still, being a general help and having her instruct me to do something in another room, or simply being a mechanical device relating to strength or height, and we do fine.
After my first trip into town to get cash for the installation, the installer for the water softener and reverse osmosis arrived. I asked that he install a water shutoff system with the softener and a cutoff valve for the r.o. system. That was installed while I was in town. I had no room for salt for the softener, so that is on the list for tomorrow.
She had thought I would finish with everything and be home in an hour or so. It takes me an half hour to get to town. My appointments can last an hour and a half. That does not include time for shopping or picking up items. She was not upset, just a little worried. After the appointment, I went shopping. She had a list and it will be the majority of what she wanted for home. The list was long and varied, included items for home and things she needed. Beyond that, I found items we had discussed or which would flush out some of the other purchases. Then I drove to Sears to pick up the television. The weed whip is in but I simply had no room for it, the television, and what I had shopped earlier. Tomorrow, most likely, will see me with that last device.
I was able to set the television and home theater up. I cannot tell if they run yet, as the receptacle behind them does not work. A little frustrated, I took a bit of time to do my internet stuff. While cooling down, I decided to try something. The receptacle next to the one I tried to use does work but of course the cords will not reach. However, the computer protective plug in unit might work. Some of the things I bought today were more rugs. My mother laid one in a place that should keep the cord safe, if it will reach.
Everything is coming together well. She has the kitchen and living room in prime order. I am not sure what she has planned tomorrow. But I think it involves me and lots of work all day long. Fine, fine, though I will make a request. That is, she give me whatever tasks and go do her own list. We do not work well together. When we get fussy about the task at hand, we both can take it out on each other. As I said, we do things so very differently that trying to help each other is a frustrating thing, even if we are both truly trying. When I say move something up... she invariably moves it down thinking that is what I meant. Neither of us are stupid, or even ignorant, we just run on different voltages and probably sources. She is more DC, I think. I am AC and at least three cycle (just because it seems that I am doing nothing does not mean I am not, though I might be doing nothing, Ha!).
I have to snack on something. Then try the tv and sound system, if the cord will reach. And then, hit it. It has, indeed, been a long day. So far though, the work really has not be a problem. A scheduled Friday off, to see the Salt Lake, will help us both to keep focus and move ahead I think, too. Without a known break, I cannot just go on and on. She, I think, can. Did I mention she is nearly 71? Yeah, and a Mack Truck powerhouse of a dame at that. *beep beep* She just helped my brother and his wife move in a few months ago. He has had back surgery and is still... not functional. His Mrs. is working full time, and then some perhaps. Along with some barely teen and nearing teen daughters... They needed help.
Well, good night. I will, as I always do, pray for those in need, those who need more than money can buy, those 'with' to do the right things, the Church and Her (and our) guides, the sick, the lame, dolts and snots, associates, friends, family, and then my enemies. So, you should be included in there, maybe several times in several ways. You are welcome. Again, good night.
A good night's sleep.
.
.
Up and well before the alarm, and finally awake. A 6-grain mix of cereal for breakfast and some waking up time will see me to town and back with some money so as to be back in town again in time for an appointment, picking up the television and weed whip (I hope), and a little shopping from a list my mom has created. I am still a bit under it from pushing hard and long, but that will pass.
She has been working non-stop. She has the kitchen pretty much done. I do not know how she does it. Beside having everything out of boxes, she has rearranged things by logic, function, and such. It is embarrassing how much she can do and does. The living room is next, so I am told. I have been handy for things that demand height or strength, but... that is pretty light really. I am, for the most part, trying to stay out of her way. She is formulating chores for me, but for now she is doing what I cannot or do not understand how to do on her own.
Oh, this house will be made into a very functional home shortly. Not up to her specs, she only has two weeks. But far beyond my specs to be sure. The yard will be put into some kind of shape. Curtains and other things will be arranged. I may not be fully sane at the end of it, but I will do my darnedest to keep up and do my share. She has been nice and easy on me so far, and I needed the time. But I think I see the tigress natural force she is about to... become a bit more demanding. Yes, yes, for my own good and toward my goals and all. So I will do my utmost to simply oblige to the length of my ability and then some.
Well, a shower, to town, and on to a glorious work-aholic two weeks. Later.
.
Up and well before the alarm, and finally awake. A 6-grain mix of cereal for breakfast and some waking up time will see me to town and back with some money so as to be back in town again in time for an appointment, picking up the television and weed whip (I hope), and a little shopping from a list my mom has created. I am still a bit under it from pushing hard and long, but that will pass.
She has been working non-stop. She has the kitchen pretty much done. I do not know how she does it. Beside having everything out of boxes, she has rearranged things by logic, function, and such. It is embarrassing how much she can do and does. The living room is next, so I am told. I have been handy for things that demand height or strength, but... that is pretty light really. I am, for the most part, trying to stay out of her way. She is formulating chores for me, but for now she is doing what I cannot or do not understand how to do on her own.
Oh, this house will be made into a very functional home shortly. Not up to her specs, she only has two weeks. But far beyond my specs to be sure. The yard will be put into some kind of shape. Curtains and other things will be arranged. I may not be fully sane at the end of it, but I will do my darnedest to keep up and do my share. She has been nice and easy on me so far, and I needed the time. But I think I see the tigress natural force she is about to... become a bit more demanding. Yes, yes, for my own good and toward my goals and all. So I will do my utmost to simply oblige to the length of my ability and then some.
Well, a shower, to town, and on to a glorious work-aholic two weeks. Later.
A few thoughts as my mind crashes.
.
.
You know, I realize I have it bad in a serious way. My body and mind do not function together or well on their own. Further, my conscious mind is like the good guy versus those two bad boys. My will is good, but it is not enough to overcome, lead, or otherwise change those things. So I live in a partially paralyzed reality. Crippled in a healthy and vigorous body and with a potentially powerful mind. This is harsh. It not only hurts, it annoys. It is real and though I work on it, I do not know if I will ever "walk" again. And yet, I have it so darn good. I read stories like this and... I realize just what I do have. You know, I do not think the man should be "helped", society has a way of crushing the spirit, drive, and other things with what it calls charity. But if I had an odd job or two, and as my schedule and finances and ability slow down some of the things I want and need done, guess what... I would let him help himself and me... and learn from him in numerous ways. Yes I would. Just saying.
The next topic is a bit controversial. This story has lead to a great flap from every side. Here too, initially, as well, if I may not have not have written so. A little more checking has caused me to reconsider my initial notion. Have you looked at the cities condition and financing? Seriously? I have to consider that, possibly, if public officials pay (not all of them, but the decision makers) was raised to a level to where financial improprieties, such as bribery, nepotism, and some of the other uglies were weeded out a bit, perhaps the streets might be cleaner, the sewers might be repaired by competent fairly vetted and priced workers, and a few other things would be better. Why? Several reasons. A highly paid public official has every incentive to keep his job by keeping a black balance. As well, he has every incentive to make sure stuff works so that people do not have a leg to stand on about his salary. Bribery simply is not worth risking nearly a million a year. And nepotism and some of the other soft corruptions are just too dangerous to that paycheck.
What is disastrous, however, are the pension plans. Those, for public sector, have to end as we know them. They are simply impossible to afford. Medical plans and other perks simply have to disappear as well. Further, public sector unions have to be ended. However, if well paid up front and allowed to seek their own best fit, we could easily make that workforce sector more clearly visible and more productive. Do I mind paying quality pay for quality work? No. Do I mind overpaying a bloated inefficient bureaucracy for a poor job and debt? Yes. It is that simple. Look at those public officials' wages, look at the city stats, look at the city stats for those cities around them, and you tell me. Look.
.
You know, I realize I have it bad in a serious way. My body and mind do not function together or well on their own. Further, my conscious mind is like the good guy versus those two bad boys. My will is good, but it is not enough to overcome, lead, or otherwise change those things. So I live in a partially paralyzed reality. Crippled in a healthy and vigorous body and with a potentially powerful mind. This is harsh. It not only hurts, it annoys. It is real and though I work on it, I do not know if I will ever "walk" again. And yet, I have it so darn good. I read stories like this and... I realize just what I do have. You know, I do not think the man should be "helped", society has a way of crushing the spirit, drive, and other things with what it calls charity. But if I had an odd job or two, and as my schedule and finances and ability slow down some of the things I want and need done, guess what... I would let him help himself and me... and learn from him in numerous ways. Yes I would. Just saying.
The next topic is a bit controversial. This story has lead to a great flap from every side. Here too, initially, as well, if I may not have not have written so. A little more checking has caused me to reconsider my initial notion. Have you looked at the cities condition and financing? Seriously? I have to consider that, possibly, if public officials pay (not all of them, but the decision makers) was raised to a level to where financial improprieties, such as bribery, nepotism, and some of the other uglies were weeded out a bit, perhaps the streets might be cleaner, the sewers might be repaired by competent fairly vetted and priced workers, and a few other things would be better. Why? Several reasons. A highly paid public official has every incentive to keep his job by keeping a black balance. As well, he has every incentive to make sure stuff works so that people do not have a leg to stand on about his salary. Bribery simply is not worth risking nearly a million a year. And nepotism and some of the other soft corruptions are just too dangerous to that paycheck.
What is disastrous, however, are the pension plans. Those, for public sector, have to end as we know them. They are simply impossible to afford. Medical plans and other perks simply have to disappear as well. Further, public sector unions have to be ended. However, if well paid up front and allowed to seek their own best fit, we could easily make that workforce sector more clearly visible and more productive. Do I mind paying quality pay for quality work? No. Do I mind overpaying a bloated inefficient bureaucracy for a poor job and debt? Yes. It is that simple. Look at those public officials' wages, look at the city stats, look at the city stats for those cities around them, and you tell me. Look.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Waking up is hard to do.
.
.
A rough, slow, and late start. I had hoped to leave by noon. Well, I was UP by noon. I then planned on leaving by 13:00. Well, 13:30 saw me on my way, which is the exact time I would need to arrive at the airport at exactly 15:00. Then I realized my travel time calculation was based on... when I lived in Logan... a half hour closer to the airport. No! So, rather than whine, I do what I can with pedal, steering wheel, serious risk taking, and the luck of a survivor. As I pulled into the park and wait area, I just pull into a parking spot and begin scanning the flight board. Right then she called and asked where I was. Timing, my friends, timing and little luck.
I ended up waiting for her as the wheelchair attendant was trying to push her and another woman and the other woman had to use the facilities. She has "stolen" the chair and gone on before, but did not today for some reason. It is always good to see my mom. We have, a bit, already been sparring. That is just how it goes. I have to learn to catch and release on those. I can do that with almost any other woman I know, but not with my mom. So far. We will see.
The drive home was good. I warned her not to be too upset by what she is to see when we get there. On the way, we discuss short and long term goals. Grocery shopping is on the list, though while discussing it the list got so long we decided to put it off a day or two. Yet driving through Utah's fruit corridor, we saw a sign for fresh fruit and vegetables. She wanted to stop but I was too far past to slow down and turning around was not in the cards. I was sure there would be another, and there was. Apricots, peaches, tomatoes, cucumbers, and two types of squash were in the offing. Happy with our load, we headed on down the road. We both were in better spirits about the tasks, so we put Wal-Mart and the butcher shop back on the list. We did get to Wal-Mart, she picking up some of her essentials (she packed very light) and more food, and me picking up a couple of fans. I had no cash, oddly. She has purchased the food so far, and thinks she will get away with it. Ha! Boy does she forget her son when away for a while! Women!
Before parking at my house, I decided to show her the local dam. She approved and is looking forward to going there once or twice for a splash and cooling down time. She really cannot swim, sinks to the bottom like a rock. But she can wade and enjoy a little lake time, and does. I am also hoping to find time to take her to the Great Salt Lake. I have yet to go myself, a wonderful excuse to see one's own country is by having guests you know. Plus, I have it that even she cannot sink in this salty body of water. We will, carefully, investigate that claim. Anyway, after reviewing the dam and lake with it, we return to my home.
She took a few things in, more than I had wanted her to handle, but so it goes. I asked if she would figure out where to put things so that she would not try to carry more. She obliged. I showed her around, talked about some of my plans, and she put things where she wanted things. All good by me, really and truly anymore. She was actually a bit pleased. From my history, she knows what bad... really bad... can be. This was not it. Rough, sure. But no stink from 'ripe' dishes, no dirt (never really that even in my past), clutter but an organized form of it. I think she was a bit surprised, to the good. Maybe a lot surprised. She can be hard to read.
No rest for the wicked. She started in on things this evening. I did not tell her I had only slept a few hours last night nor that I have been working for days beyond myself, I just tried to be helpful. We got a few things done, sorted, and the kitchen neatened to her standards. She was hungry, so I fired up the grill. We had a nice chat outside. While I was cooking, Sam caught a mouse right by the driveway. We both like mousers, and it is fun to watch, so it was a bit of a treat. My mom thought the inside was cool enough, but I thought it was blazing hot. It was, too, comparatively. I had forgotten to close the kitchen windows and the heat of the day had invaded the house. Ugh!
She, finally exhausted herself, decided to go to bed. A few pillows and a blanket were procured, a fan was set up in her room, and it was good night. Though tired, I could not quite crawl into bed. I need time, quiet, alone, time to reset and unwind. And, blogging and news needed to be checked. The world is still out there, oh well. She knows I am, or was more so, a night owl. She said she will not wake me, but I realize I will have to get up early. The water softener and r.o. water treatment will be installed tomorrow, and I do not have the cash on hand to pay for it. I will have to go in before my appointment tomorrow and bring some cash back. Then go in for my appointment, then pick up the television and weed eater if they have arrived. I sure hope they are in.
This will be a busy two weeks. My mom is ready to tear into everything and all of it. Thankfully, though, she is not a night owl! I will have some breather time. Even her boyfriend, after hearing what she had said about this visit, exclaimed "Poor Doom!". (names have been changed to protect the guilty) Oh yes, poor poor Doom. But darn it, this place will be 10 times as homey as it is now. Yes it will.
In any case, I think I will be throwing the towel in and getting in a pillow fight with myself that I cannot win shortly. A few more braindead readings and maybe a comment or two if it does not hurt too much, then crash time.
Good night, Philip. I guess being Catholic is not all bad at all. I hope you still have the faith I saw in you then.
.
A rough, slow, and late start. I had hoped to leave by noon. Well, I was UP by noon. I then planned on leaving by 13:00. Well, 13:30 saw me on my way, which is the exact time I would need to arrive at the airport at exactly 15:00. Then I realized my travel time calculation was based on... when I lived in Logan... a half hour closer to the airport. No! So, rather than whine, I do what I can with pedal, steering wheel, serious risk taking, and the luck of a survivor. As I pulled into the park and wait area, I just pull into a parking spot and begin scanning the flight board. Right then she called and asked where I was. Timing, my friends, timing and little luck.
I ended up waiting for her as the wheelchair attendant was trying to push her and another woman and the other woman had to use the facilities. She has "stolen" the chair and gone on before, but did not today for some reason. It is always good to see my mom. We have, a bit, already been sparring. That is just how it goes. I have to learn to catch and release on those. I can do that with almost any other woman I know, but not with my mom. So far. We will see.
The drive home was good. I warned her not to be too upset by what she is to see when we get there. On the way, we discuss short and long term goals. Grocery shopping is on the list, though while discussing it the list got so long we decided to put it off a day or two. Yet driving through Utah's fruit corridor, we saw a sign for fresh fruit and vegetables. She wanted to stop but I was too far past to slow down and turning around was not in the cards. I was sure there would be another, and there was. Apricots, peaches, tomatoes, cucumbers, and two types of squash were in the offing. Happy with our load, we headed on down the road. We both were in better spirits about the tasks, so we put Wal-Mart and the butcher shop back on the list. We did get to Wal-Mart, she picking up some of her essentials (she packed very light) and more food, and me picking up a couple of fans. I had no cash, oddly. She has purchased the food so far, and thinks she will get away with it. Ha! Boy does she forget her son when away for a while! Women!
Before parking at my house, I decided to show her the local dam. She approved and is looking forward to going there once or twice for a splash and cooling down time. She really cannot swim, sinks to the bottom like a rock. But she can wade and enjoy a little lake time, and does. I am also hoping to find time to take her to the Great Salt Lake. I have yet to go myself, a wonderful excuse to see one's own country is by having guests you know. Plus, I have it that even she cannot sink in this salty body of water. We will, carefully, investigate that claim. Anyway, after reviewing the dam and lake with it, we return to my home.
She took a few things in, more than I had wanted her to handle, but so it goes. I asked if she would figure out where to put things so that she would not try to carry more. She obliged. I showed her around, talked about some of my plans, and she put things where she wanted things. All good by me, really and truly anymore. She was actually a bit pleased. From my history, she knows what bad... really bad... can be. This was not it. Rough, sure. But no stink from 'ripe' dishes, no dirt (never really that even in my past), clutter but an organized form of it. I think she was a bit surprised, to the good. Maybe a lot surprised. She can be hard to read.
No rest for the wicked. She started in on things this evening. I did not tell her I had only slept a few hours last night nor that I have been working for days beyond myself, I just tried to be helpful. We got a few things done, sorted, and the kitchen neatened to her standards. She was hungry, so I fired up the grill. We had a nice chat outside. While I was cooking, Sam caught a mouse right by the driveway. We both like mousers, and it is fun to watch, so it was a bit of a treat. My mom thought the inside was cool enough, but I thought it was blazing hot. It was, too, comparatively. I had forgotten to close the kitchen windows and the heat of the day had invaded the house. Ugh!
She, finally exhausted herself, decided to go to bed. A few pillows and a blanket were procured, a fan was set up in her room, and it was good night. Though tired, I could not quite crawl into bed. I need time, quiet, alone, time to reset and unwind. And, blogging and news needed to be checked. The world is still out there, oh well. She knows I am, or was more so, a night owl. She said she will not wake me, but I realize I will have to get up early. The water softener and r.o. water treatment will be installed tomorrow, and I do not have the cash on hand to pay for it. I will have to go in before my appointment tomorrow and bring some cash back. Then go in for my appointment, then pick up the television and weed eater if they have arrived. I sure hope they are in.
This will be a busy two weeks. My mom is ready to tear into everything and all of it. Thankfully, though, she is not a night owl! I will have some breather time. Even her boyfriend, after hearing what she had said about this visit, exclaimed "Poor Doom!". (names have been changed to protect the guilty) Oh yes, poor poor Doom. But darn it, this place will be 10 times as homey as it is now. Yes it will.
In any case, I think I will be throwing the towel in and getting in a pillow fight with myself that I cannot win shortly. A few more braindead readings and maybe a comment or two if it does not hurt too much, then crash time.
Good night, Philip. I guess being Catholic is not all bad at all. I hope you still have the faith I saw in you then.
A bit longer.
.
.
I got to much less than I had hoped. The bedding has been washed and put on the beds, the rest of the laundry is ongoing, dishes were set to soak but will probably not be completed tonight, and a few other odds and ends have been tucked in there. I am going to stay up two more hours to finish more laundry though. I can do little else in that time, my get up and go was run over, shot, and then lit on fire. The ashes are in the corner, licking wounds.
I am seeing ideas, politically, that I like. Republicans, in order to have a chance to do something positive, are going to have to hold to some lines. The only way that can happen is if we, the voters, have some sort of litmus testing or contracts. Essentially we have to believe that who will be voting for is who we think we are voting for. This piece offers one sample, among many, going forward. Beyond that, I am seeing proposals for a tax payers' bill of rights. There are items such as these in some states, moving this to a national level could be very good. Now, I will be the first to admit, these are band-aids on gaping wounds. These offers treatments for symptoms, not the disease directly. But at this time, the patient is far from the hospital and the choice is this or more wounds.
The sacrifices we will have to make going back far enough to begin going forward will be harsh. Either that or we will simply crash, financially. It may or may not already be too late. Time will tell. One way to look at it is this: As if the nation were a man, and that man broke his leg very badly some years back; He was never properly treated, and that poorly healed break is interfering with his ability to survive; the choices are grim, the cures available all uncertain, and this while he needs to try and fend for his life. Either we will break the leg again, and set it right this time, though there is no guarantee at this time. Or, by necessity to survive otherwise, an amputation might be necessary if the infections that go with it are becoming too strong or the recovery time would be shorter so that he can survive what else is coming externally. Social Security? Public Sector Pensions? K-doctorate? And add in all the little things, school lunches, the ever expanding highways, on into every sector the government has stuck an unwanted or demanded nose. All needs to be put on the block. Yes, even military spending.
On another subject, and while I know there are wrongs, I have to think the police are generally doing a good job. Perhaps the war on drugs is wrong. I do not agree with that assessment. As it stands, it is the law and the way. As such, from what I see in other countries, our legal system is much more function and fair than any other. Are there nations, anywhere, which allow common drug use? How are they working out? My guess, in the long term, minus the photo-op positives and political, msm, and other spin, their societies are in chaos at best. The drugs available today are simply too potent. Cocaine has become crack, speed has become meth, opium is old and just as bad as ever. No, this is not a beer, this is not even a whiskey, scotch, gin, or vodka. This stuff addicts in as little as one use. There is no going back to licit drugs. I thought we pretty much tried that, to an extent (and if not technically legal) in the 60's and 70's. How did that go? Anyway, when I see articles like this, I have no problem with our cops. Mistakes will happen, it is a war. Corruption will occur, it deals with a lot of money. But I have yet see the level of open corruption in the article. How many, by the way, of those killed were innocent, completely uninvolved? How many of those killed in Mexico by the gangs are uninvolved or advocating against them?
What I am saying is I both believe in the war and understand why the scale of violence has escalated. While I want a perfect police presence in action, that cannot happen. If people want to smoke their stuff, do their junk, mainline their goodies, there are places they can do that. If those places are places they would rather not live, why are they trying to bring the climate that junkies and the societies that allow them to the rest of us? Go, do your stuff in Mexico, or oversees, or wherever allows it. That will eliminate your and our problem. Come on, and if it is just pot you want to do... if you cannot figure that out, you really need help, not more pot. Live with the consequences, that is part of the price. It is not just the seller you might have to pay.
Well, back to... I do not know. Something stupid that kills time until the next two loads finish. Good night.
.
I got to much less than I had hoped. The bedding has been washed and put on the beds, the rest of the laundry is ongoing, dishes were set to soak but will probably not be completed tonight, and a few other odds and ends have been tucked in there. I am going to stay up two more hours to finish more laundry though. I can do little else in that time, my get up and go was run over, shot, and then lit on fire. The ashes are in the corner, licking wounds.
I am seeing ideas, politically, that I like. Republicans, in order to have a chance to do something positive, are going to have to hold to some lines. The only way that can happen is if we, the voters, have some sort of litmus testing or contracts. Essentially we have to believe that who will be voting for is who we think we are voting for. This piece offers one sample, among many, going forward. Beyond that, I am seeing proposals for a tax payers' bill of rights. There are items such as these in some states, moving this to a national level could be very good. Now, I will be the first to admit, these are band-aids on gaping wounds. These offers treatments for symptoms, not the disease directly. But at this time, the patient is far from the hospital and the choice is this or more wounds.
The sacrifices we will have to make going back far enough to begin going forward will be harsh. Either that or we will simply crash, financially. It may or may not already be too late. Time will tell. One way to look at it is this: As if the nation were a man, and that man broke his leg very badly some years back; He was never properly treated, and that poorly healed break is interfering with his ability to survive; the choices are grim, the cures available all uncertain, and this while he needs to try and fend for his life. Either we will break the leg again, and set it right this time, though there is no guarantee at this time. Or, by necessity to survive otherwise, an amputation might be necessary if the infections that go with it are becoming too strong or the recovery time would be shorter so that he can survive what else is coming externally. Social Security? Public Sector Pensions? K-doctorate? And add in all the little things, school lunches, the ever expanding highways, on into every sector the government has stuck an unwanted or demanded nose. All needs to be put on the block. Yes, even military spending.
On another subject, and while I know there are wrongs, I have to think the police are generally doing a good job. Perhaps the war on drugs is wrong. I do not agree with that assessment. As it stands, it is the law and the way. As such, from what I see in other countries, our legal system is much more function and fair than any other. Are there nations, anywhere, which allow common drug use? How are they working out? My guess, in the long term, minus the photo-op positives and political, msm, and other spin, their societies are in chaos at best. The drugs available today are simply too potent. Cocaine has become crack, speed has become meth, opium is old and just as bad as ever. No, this is not a beer, this is not even a whiskey, scotch, gin, or vodka. This stuff addicts in as little as one use. There is no going back to licit drugs. I thought we pretty much tried that, to an extent (and if not technically legal) in the 60's and 70's. How did that go? Anyway, when I see articles like this, I have no problem with our cops. Mistakes will happen, it is a war. Corruption will occur, it deals with a lot of money. But I have yet see the level of open corruption in the article. How many, by the way, of those killed were innocent, completely uninvolved? How many of those killed in Mexico by the gangs are uninvolved or advocating against them?
What I am saying is I both believe in the war and understand why the scale of violence has escalated. While I want a perfect police presence in action, that cannot happen. If people want to smoke their stuff, do their junk, mainline their goodies, there are places they can do that. If those places are places they would rather not live, why are they trying to bring the climate that junkies and the societies that allow them to the rest of us? Go, do your stuff in Mexico, or oversees, or wherever allows it. That will eliminate your and our problem. Come on, and if it is just pot you want to do... if you cannot figure that out, you really need help, not more pot. Live with the consequences, that is part of the price. It is not just the seller you might have to pay.
Well, back to... I do not know. Something stupid that kills time until the next two loads finish. Good night.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
No More!
.
.
I have been pushing too hard and doing too much. While I am pleased to have done what has been completed, I realize I have simply stretched too far. It is time to take a break. Even so, I will be tending some minor easy chores. Laundry which will include the sheets I have found, dishes just because I want that area clean both for presentation and function, the check to be mailed, and trash and recycling will be put out for pick-up tomorrow. As well, I have done a number of other jobs today. But I am at my end.
Tomorrow I will be meeting my mother at the airport. The only other thing I want to do tomorrow is grocery shopping. It is at this time I may join Sam's Club, if she feels like shopping that is. I will allow her a budget from which to work. Any cleaning supplies she prefers, recommends, or thinks I do not have but need will be available. As well, she may buy foods and other associated goods as she desires. She being a bit frugal though, I will do... quality checks on her purchases. I may not be a hounding top-brand guy, but I demand certain properties and qualities regarding food. I know she tries, as do I. We can make a good team.
Tuesday I have an appointment, the installer will be arriving for the reverse osmosis and water softener, bringing the devices on his way, and the television will be in. Sometime between now and then I need to set up the theater system as well. Still, I am hoping my mother allows me those two days to get my feet back on the ground.
To be honest, this place is still rather rough. Full boxes in this room and in the kitchen, not all the furniture is assembled and parts are here and there, and... It looks a lot like a bachelor lives here. It looks a thousand percent better, really, than before I started. And I have been working on form and function as well. But the improvements are... comparative. How much we can really improve even on that while she is here... I do not know. However, I do not want her working too hard either. And I simply cannot. I can try to do more, but my limits are real if expanding.
I finished off the beans and rice tonight, along with some hamburger I thawed the other day. A couple of slices of the near wheat bread with butter and a glass of milk finished the meal well. I do wish I had enough time to create another batch of that before she arrives, but with what I will do and the time left, that is not possible. With beans and rice cooked and ready, a meal is as close and fast as the microwave. I keep them separate as well, so rice can easily make a good breakfast with butter, salt and pepper or maple syrup or honey, or a little milk, and sugar or maple syrup or honey. Beans too, can be eaten alone or with sour cream for whole proteins, and as a solid or soup. I will be keeping those foods on hand from now on, both for their ease and the good nutrition they offer. I may be teaching my mom some new things about food. I really want to show her the sprouted wheat! She may not like it at all. But she may really like the deal too. Who knows.
I just wanted to bark at the moon and whine about the workload. It is all still good. A break from it, and a choice not to do too much more of the heavy stuff, and a little cool down from the chow, is what I needed. Wow, bm's are bricks. Yet they detach and splash just fine. Hmmm, if ever caught with my pants down in a life or death situation, I think I now have a to be verified lethal projectile at my feet. The poor sat upon toilets though, even the heavy flushers that they are they are balking at the loads. Wow, that is all else I have to say about that. Just wow!
.
I have been pushing too hard and doing too much. While I am pleased to have done what has been completed, I realize I have simply stretched too far. It is time to take a break. Even so, I will be tending some minor easy chores. Laundry which will include the sheets I have found, dishes just because I want that area clean both for presentation and function, the check to be mailed, and trash and recycling will be put out for pick-up tomorrow. As well, I have done a number of other jobs today. But I am at my end.
Tomorrow I will be meeting my mother at the airport. The only other thing I want to do tomorrow is grocery shopping. It is at this time I may join Sam's Club, if she feels like shopping that is. I will allow her a budget from which to work. Any cleaning supplies she prefers, recommends, or thinks I do not have but need will be available. As well, she may buy foods and other associated goods as she desires. She being a bit frugal though, I will do... quality checks on her purchases. I may not be a hounding top-brand guy, but I demand certain properties and qualities regarding food. I know she tries, as do I. We can make a good team.
Tuesday I have an appointment, the installer will be arriving for the reverse osmosis and water softener, bringing the devices on his way, and the television will be in. Sometime between now and then I need to set up the theater system as well. Still, I am hoping my mother allows me those two days to get my feet back on the ground.
To be honest, this place is still rather rough. Full boxes in this room and in the kitchen, not all the furniture is assembled and parts are here and there, and... It looks a lot like a bachelor lives here. It looks a thousand percent better, really, than before I started. And I have been working on form and function as well. But the improvements are... comparative. How much we can really improve even on that while she is here... I do not know. However, I do not want her working too hard either. And I simply cannot. I can try to do more, but my limits are real if expanding.
I finished off the beans and rice tonight, along with some hamburger I thawed the other day. A couple of slices of the near wheat bread with butter and a glass of milk finished the meal well. I do wish I had enough time to create another batch of that before she arrives, but with what I will do and the time left, that is not possible. With beans and rice cooked and ready, a meal is as close and fast as the microwave. I keep them separate as well, so rice can easily make a good breakfast with butter, salt and pepper or maple syrup or honey, or a little milk, and sugar or maple syrup or honey. Beans too, can be eaten alone or with sour cream for whole proteins, and as a solid or soup. I will be keeping those foods on hand from now on, both for their ease and the good nutrition they offer. I may be teaching my mom some new things about food. I really want to show her the sprouted wheat! She may not like it at all. But she may really like the deal too. Who knows.
I just wanted to bark at the moon and whine about the workload. It is all still good. A break from it, and a choice not to do too much more of the heavy stuff, and a little cool down from the chow, is what I needed. Wow, bm's are bricks. Yet they detach and splash just fine. Hmmm, if ever caught with my pants down in a life or death situation, I think I now have a to be verified lethal projectile at my feet. The poor sat upon toilets though, even the heavy flushers that they are they are balking at the loads. Wow, that is all else I have to say about that. Just wow!
Sunday thoughts.
.
.
Lots of thing crowd my mind as I read the blogs today. Christianity, and sanity even, under the legal gun; the wars in the Middle-East; the 'debate' on manmade climate "change"; questions about Christians who love sinners and all that goes with it; and of course my feeble attempts at living then hopefully dying in this world of flesh in which I am only minimally vested.
My mother called this morning. Well, I was not quite awake. I heard the phone but the neurons tasked with doing anything about it did not have complete pathway connections to actually answer the phone. I did sleep well last night and this morning though! When I finally stumbled to my still flimsy functioning form, I called her back. She was, it seems, waiting for a cow to... drop a load. No, really. She was judging some sort of local contest which either compares size of droppings or has something to do with the droppings once they visit the ground. Tossing? I cannot quite recall. Only that I really wanted to laugh, chuckle, chortle, or something but those neurons were not quite connected even by then.
She is really looking forward to the trip. As am I. She just wanted to keep me aware that tomorrow is the day to pick her up. And, to pray the cow finishes soon so that she may go home. Even if I have improved 10,000 percent if that is possible, I still have limits and foibles which make her call meaningful. Even should I get past my foibles of memory and correct my inability to schedule irregular events, history would vindicate her obsession. Waiting in an airport in a nearly foreign land with so many questionable strangers is not a fun thing. The thought of it impels her to keep reminding me.
Regarding the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, I have doubts. Getting out, staying for some reason... I would like to see a solid reassessment and choose more from there. The problem I have with a pull out of either or both rests with having no clear civil leadership which I trust to assess whether to pull out or restructure the wars let alone to pull out in such a manner that we do not undo any good we may have done in the regions. For those reasons, I want our troops kept in place until such a time as we have solid leadership and oversight in play. Beyond, I suspect keeping bases in one or both of those regions may be a good thing for shorter or longer terms. For me, in my little armchair world, planting a boot in Iraq was what this was about. Keeping it there goes with that. Rebuilding Iraq or Afghanistan? Meh. Oil? Are you stupid? Terrorism? Meh, to a degree, though planting a boot in the bad neighborhood sure deincentivizes state sponsorship, keeping it there is more of the same.
On another issue, one of my daily reads has been struggling with some things. A loss caused by someone who strayed from the Christian path (as I or she or we or whatever know and accept it). Something like that. When does sin not become a sin? I would guess when we accept that we have sin, when we feel sorrow and shame for the sin, then use the mechanisms we know to seek pardon for the sin, and then we go forth with an attempt to no longer sin. Failing? Yeah, okay, who does not fail? Christ and Mary, who was filled with grace, are the only two who might have a claim to that of all those I am aware. And yet, to live a life of sin? Further, what do we do with those people we love who live this life? Turning our backs is often cited as the means. And yet, to drop those we love while reaching out to those we do not know who do the same thing, seems... wrong too. All I know is that it is a tough world in which to be Christian. For me, I merely pray for guidance and do what I understand and believe to be right. The loss we feel when those people die is no less. And I am not sure it should be?
Here is an open reason why I disregard academia. Need more? How about this? Academia has always been hostile toward Christianity. Usually they do their dirty work in back room socialist style formats, hiding their hatred and bigotry. Now, they are open and upfront about it. It is not likely to improve. As I have said, I can see easily where I may be persecuted, to death, for my Christian faith in my lifetime in this country. On the good side, I have no problem doing that to a degree. It is sad to see a once great Christian nation giving in to this though.
Oh, and another interesting piece, albeit a European one and not technically regarding religion, is absolutely terrifying in the implications involved. Academia, again, at their collective political worst. (You will need to scroll up from the comments. I tried to get a page link to the actual article but was not able to do so.) That in spite of the actual realities of the notion of what that "protection" is legislated to defend.
Just some Sunday Ramblings. I have work to do. Dishes to be 'updated', bedding to be sorted, laundry to be done, and perhaps the home stereo will be put together. And then, empty boxes and other packing material to be handled, plus some more unpacking in the kitchen. I have been doing very well, very well indeed, in this little localized work tsunami. Oh, and that bill. I should write the check, put it in the envelope, fill that out, put a stamp on it, and in one of my breaks, walk it to the post office. I did miss out on the events of this weekend here in town, a great opportunity to have met and be seen, but I had no choice. Soon, or next year.
.
Lots of thing crowd my mind as I read the blogs today. Christianity, and sanity even, under the legal gun; the wars in the Middle-East; the 'debate' on manmade climate "change"; questions about Christians who love sinners and all that goes with it; and of course my feeble attempts at living then hopefully dying in this world of flesh in which I am only minimally vested.
My mother called this morning. Well, I was not quite awake. I heard the phone but the neurons tasked with doing anything about it did not have complete pathway connections to actually answer the phone. I did sleep well last night and this morning though! When I finally stumbled to my still flimsy functioning form, I called her back. She was, it seems, waiting for a cow to... drop a load. No, really. She was judging some sort of local contest which either compares size of droppings or has something to do with the droppings once they visit the ground. Tossing? I cannot quite recall. Only that I really wanted to laugh, chuckle, chortle, or something but those neurons were not quite connected even by then.
She is really looking forward to the trip. As am I. She just wanted to keep me aware that tomorrow is the day to pick her up. And, to pray the cow finishes soon so that she may go home. Even if I have improved 10,000 percent if that is possible, I still have limits and foibles which make her call meaningful. Even should I get past my foibles of memory and correct my inability to schedule irregular events, history would vindicate her obsession. Waiting in an airport in a nearly foreign land with so many questionable strangers is not a fun thing. The thought of it impels her to keep reminding me.
Regarding the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, I have doubts. Getting out, staying for some reason... I would like to see a solid reassessment and choose more from there. The problem I have with a pull out of either or both rests with having no clear civil leadership which I trust to assess whether to pull out or restructure the wars let alone to pull out in such a manner that we do not undo any good we may have done in the regions. For those reasons, I want our troops kept in place until such a time as we have solid leadership and oversight in play. Beyond, I suspect keeping bases in one or both of those regions may be a good thing for shorter or longer terms. For me, in my little armchair world, planting a boot in Iraq was what this was about. Keeping it there goes with that. Rebuilding Iraq or Afghanistan? Meh. Oil? Are you stupid? Terrorism? Meh, to a degree, though planting a boot in the bad neighborhood sure deincentivizes state sponsorship, keeping it there is more of the same.
On another issue, one of my daily reads has been struggling with some things. A loss caused by someone who strayed from the Christian path (as I or she or we or whatever know and accept it). Something like that. When does sin not become a sin? I would guess when we accept that we have sin, when we feel sorrow and shame for the sin, then use the mechanisms we know to seek pardon for the sin, and then we go forth with an attempt to no longer sin. Failing? Yeah, okay, who does not fail? Christ and Mary, who was filled with grace, are the only two who might have a claim to that of all those I am aware. And yet, to live a life of sin? Further, what do we do with those people we love who live this life? Turning our backs is often cited as the means. And yet, to drop those we love while reaching out to those we do not know who do the same thing, seems... wrong too. All I know is that it is a tough world in which to be Christian. For me, I merely pray for guidance and do what I understand and believe to be right. The loss we feel when those people die is no less. And I am not sure it should be?
Here is an open reason why I disregard academia. Need more? How about this? Academia has always been hostile toward Christianity. Usually they do their dirty work in back room socialist style formats, hiding their hatred and bigotry. Now, they are open and upfront about it. It is not likely to improve. As I have said, I can see easily where I may be persecuted, to death, for my Christian faith in my lifetime in this country. On the good side, I have no problem doing that to a degree. It is sad to see a once great Christian nation giving in to this though.
Oh, and another interesting piece, albeit a European one and not technically regarding religion, is absolutely terrifying in the implications involved. Academia, again, at their collective political worst. (You will need to scroll up from the comments. I tried to get a page link to the actual article but was not able to do so.) That in spite of the actual realities of the notion of what that "protection" is legislated to defend.
Just some Sunday Ramblings. I have work to do. Dishes to be 'updated', bedding to be sorted, laundry to be done, and perhaps the home stereo will be put together. And then, empty boxes and other packing material to be handled, plus some more unpacking in the kitchen. I have been doing very well, very well indeed, in this little localized work tsunami. Oh, and that bill. I should write the check, put it in the envelope, fill that out, put a stamp on it, and in one of my breaks, walk it to the post office. I did miss out on the events of this weekend here in town, a great opportunity to have met and be seen, but I had no choice. Soon, or next year.
One out of two.
.
.
The tv stand is together, but there is no time for the home stereo. Ouch, that lack of sleep is beginning to bite. I dragged around before finally getting to it but I refused to leave the work half done, so... here I sit at 3:00, looking like something Sam dragged in. Well, there was the little problem with the instructions. The stand can be set up 3 different ways. I had it pretty much put together once, but for the wrong configuration. I am surprised though, how well it went together, both times. I do not think I even thought I might swear if I did get a little huffy at myself for the first and wrong attempt. Aspirin and bed. Good night all.
.
The tv stand is together, but there is no time for the home stereo. Ouch, that lack of sleep is beginning to bite. I dragged around before finally getting to it but I refused to leave the work half done, so... here I sit at 3:00, looking like something Sam dragged in. Well, there was the little problem with the instructions. The stand can be set up 3 different ways. I had it pretty much put together once, but for the wrong configuration. I am surprised though, how well it went together, both times. I do not think I even thought I might swear if I did get a little huffy at myself for the first and wrong attempt. Aspirin and bed. Good night all.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Is survival outfitting still game?
.
.
You know it is. I may be spending money on some things that bring doubt to my mission, and that is fine. I will choose some things which are not survival based. I will probably be buying some type of air conditioning and fans soon too. That changes nothing regarding my plans to become more sustainable or stocked.
I must admit to being a bit tripped up. There are so many things to do, so many products to buy, so many skills to gain, and an unknown timeframe within which to work. Money, as always, is tight. Stretching it in the wrong way may be luxurious foolishness. Or it may simply be seen as enabling other work to go forward in a carrot and stick manner. Back to the topic. I was stumbling through what to do. Many of the things I thought I had investigated well, it turns out, I had only scratched the surface regarding. Long term storage items, I now find, can be bought in bulk (25 or 30 pounds depending) which can then be parsed into either 5 gallon buckets or #10 cans, both can be sealed with moisture control devices. I have no idea how much to buy of any one, how much of one compared to the other, or how to solve that mathematical problem logically. As well, finding several of the items on the short term food storage list is proving very problematic. Some things simply are not available. Neither of those problems is insurmountable, it is just with 10,000 other things going on right now getting to them is proving... difficult.
In my reading of SurvivalBlog, I find many articles which either reinforce my notions or teach. This article gives me a very good idea of how to go forward in a more logical manner. Part of the confusion goes beyond what and how much, but where to start. This systemic thematic process discussed and practiced by the author is a hugely helpful article. I would say, in the most recent offerings, it is one of the finest pieces for my particular situation. I put it here both to show and hopefully remember.
At this point, there is not a lot I can do. My mother will be here and though she might like some of the notions, she is not here for that and probably not a great fan of the reason for the notion. As an older single woman these subjects are very frightening to her. Oh, sure, she is a big girl. But she has learned, over time, that everybody is limited and women much more so than men. So, though I will give her a rough outlay of what I would really like to do, show her some of the things I have done, and let her know she has a place so long as a total collapse can be foreseen enough to travel that far, I will not go too much further. Our work is simply about setting up the house in such a way that she will feel satisfied that her son can sort of muddle his way through a normative life a bit easier and with some comforts provided by a woman's mind and hands.
Then again, some things will be of benefit to us both. A clothes line will most likely go up. Air conditioning will probably go in, along with a few more fans. Food and devices, both survival and other, will be better stored in order to take stock and lay hands upon as needs require. Some of that which is dual use will be intentional, some of it not so much so. But for the next month, due to money being put into my home in these ways, and maybe a month after until I can regain control of my finances, I simply will be more cautious about spending too much in any way. One thing I am strongly considering, when she arrives, is becoming a member of Sam's Club. As a frugal to the bone woman, this will satisfy some of her worries and potentially some of my short term supplies. A case of tuna, a case of this, a case of that, things I will use and store.
After that, I will begin making better plans. Though I had really hoped to begin with rabbits this summer or fall, the thematic system seems to argue against that. Still, all plans are somewhat individualized, so I may go ahead with that. However, home security weighs strongly on my mind. This home, in no way, at this time, is secure. Dogs would have no problem gaining entrance, people might actually be entering as is. Then again, I have thought that before. Forgetful? Perhaps. But how I got out of a locked door, since I only lock the deadbolt when I leave and not the handle, I am still unsure. Never mind, just that I would like to secure this place a good deal better than it is currently. Short term and long term, including finding plants which would make entering ground level windows more than a bit problematic... the problem there? nothing seems to grow on the north side of the house, and of course the generic problem of finding a plant or plants which fit the clime. As well, I will be tracking down and pricing local medical training opportunities. Some may be free? I would like both the skills and practice involved, so some volunteer work may be in order. Getting past my... dread of medical... We will see. I have gotten over my dread of heat, so who knows.
So, just because I am currently adrift on the survival ocean, without seeming heading or bearing, while I am spending crazy money on non-involved issues, while my head is shoved into a workaholic pace on other things, I am very much alive and well in planning and assessing things... at least academically. That is no help in keeping unwanted critters out of my home nor will it feed me if the food system fails, but it is what I have. Further, I have been folding pieces of these plans into my other affairs... a bit at a time, like always.
.
You know it is. I may be spending money on some things that bring doubt to my mission, and that is fine. I will choose some things which are not survival based. I will probably be buying some type of air conditioning and fans soon too. That changes nothing regarding my plans to become more sustainable or stocked.
I must admit to being a bit tripped up. There are so many things to do, so many products to buy, so many skills to gain, and an unknown timeframe within which to work. Money, as always, is tight. Stretching it in the wrong way may be luxurious foolishness. Or it may simply be seen as enabling other work to go forward in a carrot and stick manner. Back to the topic. I was stumbling through what to do. Many of the things I thought I had investigated well, it turns out, I had only scratched the surface regarding. Long term storage items, I now find, can be bought in bulk (25 or 30 pounds depending) which can then be parsed into either 5 gallon buckets or #10 cans, both can be sealed with moisture control devices. I have no idea how much to buy of any one, how much of one compared to the other, or how to solve that mathematical problem logically. As well, finding several of the items on the short term food storage list is proving very problematic. Some things simply are not available. Neither of those problems is insurmountable, it is just with 10,000 other things going on right now getting to them is proving... difficult.
In my reading of SurvivalBlog, I find many articles which either reinforce my notions or teach. This article gives me a very good idea of how to go forward in a more logical manner. Part of the confusion goes beyond what and how much, but where to start. This systemic thematic process discussed and practiced by the author is a hugely helpful article. I would say, in the most recent offerings, it is one of the finest pieces for my particular situation. I put it here both to show and hopefully remember.
At this point, there is not a lot I can do. My mother will be here and though she might like some of the notions, she is not here for that and probably not a great fan of the reason for the notion. As an older single woman these subjects are very frightening to her. Oh, sure, she is a big girl. But she has learned, over time, that everybody is limited and women much more so than men. So, though I will give her a rough outlay of what I would really like to do, show her some of the things I have done, and let her know she has a place so long as a total collapse can be foreseen enough to travel that far, I will not go too much further. Our work is simply about setting up the house in such a way that she will feel satisfied that her son can sort of muddle his way through a normative life a bit easier and with some comforts provided by a woman's mind and hands.
Then again, some things will be of benefit to us both. A clothes line will most likely go up. Air conditioning will probably go in, along with a few more fans. Food and devices, both survival and other, will be better stored in order to take stock and lay hands upon as needs require. Some of that which is dual use will be intentional, some of it not so much so. But for the next month, due to money being put into my home in these ways, and maybe a month after until I can regain control of my finances, I simply will be more cautious about spending too much in any way. One thing I am strongly considering, when she arrives, is becoming a member of Sam's Club. As a frugal to the bone woman, this will satisfy some of her worries and potentially some of my short term supplies. A case of tuna, a case of this, a case of that, things I will use and store.
After that, I will begin making better plans. Though I had really hoped to begin with rabbits this summer or fall, the thematic system seems to argue against that. Still, all plans are somewhat individualized, so I may go ahead with that. However, home security weighs strongly on my mind. This home, in no way, at this time, is secure. Dogs would have no problem gaining entrance, people might actually be entering as is. Then again, I have thought that before. Forgetful? Perhaps. But how I got out of a locked door, since I only lock the deadbolt when I leave and not the handle, I am still unsure. Never mind, just that I would like to secure this place a good deal better than it is currently. Short term and long term, including finding plants which would make entering ground level windows more than a bit problematic... the problem there? nothing seems to grow on the north side of the house, and of course the generic problem of finding a plant or plants which fit the clime. As well, I will be tracking down and pricing local medical training opportunities. Some may be free? I would like both the skills and practice involved, so some volunteer work may be in order. Getting past my... dread of medical... We will see. I have gotten over my dread of heat, so who knows.
So, just because I am currently adrift on the survival ocean, without seeming heading or bearing, while I am spending crazy money on non-involved issues, while my head is shoved into a workaholic pace on other things, I am very much alive and well in planning and assessing things... at least academically. That is no help in keeping unwanted critters out of my home nor will it feed me if the food system fails, but it is what I have. Further, I have been folding pieces of these plans into my other affairs... a bit at a time, like always.
Well, close.
.
.
It only took 8 hours, give or take, to get something arranged. In spite of my efforts, the tv itself will not arrive until Tuesday. I suppose my mother can have one night of no television. The rest of the components are here, now. I just arrived home from my travels, ate a bit, and will rest for a short bit. I do hope to have the stand and home entertainment system together by bedtime. What a day.
I called my friend before I drove to town. He thought running around sounded fun. We had lunch at a sandwich shop. Oddly, they charge more for less meat. They do add provolone cheese. It is odd though, more meat for less? Then a trip to Wal-Mart to look at the television and such, a credit card issue, a drive home to check on that online and by phone, further complications. Then some decision making, a trip back into town to Sears to buy a television. I washed the Xterra, filled the gas tank, dropped my friend off, went to Wal-Mart for components, and finally home again.
I am not sure how much I will get done in the kitchen or anything else, but I am still going. Having not been able to sleep seems to be no problem whatsoever. Weird, but I will take it. I still have this evening and a home bound day tomorrow to do some odds and ends. Let me think this through... Laundry needs doing, probably 2 to 3 loads, light loads from the looks of things. I should sort bedding first, and throw that in. I am not sure how much that will add to the laundry? Cleaning pieces and parts of kitchen gear and placing it on the table, which needs to be well washed and dried first, just from general use though so no real work. And of course, putting the rest of the television subsystems together.
The only thing, I think, that I have not done is to get that final bill sent in the mail. I need to do that very soon. I can always walk it down to the post office even yet this weekend. It will not go out until Monday, but that should be fine.
You know, I really am doing better. Over lack of sleep, a slump day, and no cessation to the complications, I have stuck with things. Last hour hauling, multi-store shopping, heat, and whatever else have not stopped my progress. No, it is not good. A real champ would have had this in hand and done weeks ago. Well, with the wound? Maybe it is okay. Still, I think I have been... lazy too. I do not know for sure anymore. I am pleased though, with this last round of efforts and their fruit, even if it could or should have been done earlier. It is okay.
.
It only took 8 hours, give or take, to get something arranged. In spite of my efforts, the tv itself will not arrive until Tuesday. I suppose my mother can have one night of no television. The rest of the components are here, now. I just arrived home from my travels, ate a bit, and will rest for a short bit. I do hope to have the stand and home entertainment system together by bedtime. What a day.
I called my friend before I drove to town. He thought running around sounded fun. We had lunch at a sandwich shop. Oddly, they charge more for less meat. They do add provolone cheese. It is odd though, more meat for less? Then a trip to Wal-Mart to look at the television and such, a credit card issue, a drive home to check on that online and by phone, further complications. Then some decision making, a trip back into town to Sears to buy a television. I washed the Xterra, filled the gas tank, dropped my friend off, went to Wal-Mart for components, and finally home again.
I am not sure how much I will get done in the kitchen or anything else, but I am still going. Having not been able to sleep seems to be no problem whatsoever. Weird, but I will take it. I still have this evening and a home bound day tomorrow to do some odds and ends. Let me think this through... Laundry needs doing, probably 2 to 3 loads, light loads from the looks of things. I should sort bedding first, and throw that in. I am not sure how much that will add to the laundry? Cleaning pieces and parts of kitchen gear and placing it on the table, which needs to be well washed and dried first, just from general use though so no real work. And of course, putting the rest of the television subsystems together.
The only thing, I think, that I have not done is to get that final bill sent in the mail. I need to do that very soon. I can always walk it down to the post office even yet this weekend. It will not go out until Monday, but that should be fine.
You know, I really am doing better. Over lack of sleep, a slump day, and no cessation to the complications, I have stuck with things. Last hour hauling, multi-store shopping, heat, and whatever else have not stopped my progress. No, it is not good. A real champ would have had this in hand and done weeks ago. Well, with the wound? Maybe it is okay. Still, I think I have been... lazy too. I do not know for sure anymore. I am pleased though, with this last round of efforts and their fruit, even if it could or should have been done earlier. It is okay.
Not much sleep.
.
.
Just a bit of sleep this morning. I tried to sleep a bit between 3:00 and 9:00, but it was not going to happen. I think I dozed for a few minutes, off and on, and very lightly, between 9:00 and 11:00 or so, getting an advance call around 11:00 that the bed was arriving. It is weird how much work I did to prep for such a short little job to be done. They were in, had it set up, and out in 10 minutes maximum from the time they rolled up to the doorway. It is a beautiful thing though. The bed is like a crown jewel on a crafted band, in a way.
I am trying to find the credit card that will work. I have, if I can find that, decided I will go with the Vizio Wal-Mart sells, and instore, for the moment. If I really do not like it, I will take it back and try the 240 hz refresh rated television (which has to be ordered) or even some other brand. The rest of the stuff I can get right now, at the store. If I can fit it in the vehicle and handle the television in the box solo, I can set the thing up myself. I finally took several hours each day over the last three days trying to interpret television lingo. What I got was that many features are simply fiction. The difference between 60, 120, 240, and even 600 Hz refresh rates, to most people, is... nil. Even experts are hard pressed and may only roughly 'sense' a difference. I get all these great tips on buyer traps and seller tricks and... they turn around and fall for every single one them in their suggested top picks. Oh, no, that is too funny right there.
To sum up several such sites' advice... "No, don't buy for this, or this, or this, ignore prices, just get this, this, and this. Now, when you actually want to buy, don't bother with anything but the $best, start with this $2,500 model with all these wonderful features. Though if you really want that cheap set we just told you would be wise to buy, go ahead. But it isn't as much an $Apple in our kickback eye."
I have worked on much more complex systems, in very tight areas, and have since set others up. I do not always like the work. It certainly is not fun to have a single little wire mock you into near tears of fury, it is hot, it is thankless (everyone KNEW you could do it... how hard could it be? is it done yet?). I do not care, but it is fun to point out the dubious nature of the gratitude for men's talents. They only miss that when it is gone (and they have to pay to get it done). Ha, I have two hands (unlike Gore?), can handle the stench of dishes for... well, a good while actually, and have zero fear of dust or even the larger deadlier dust bunnies. So there.
Well, I am showered, dressed, ugly, and happy. I will start looking for the other other credit card and go to town if I can find it... in more ways then one. Today seems to be good, in spite of no sleep, so I am going to roll with it. If I can, I will clear out more empty boxes as that pile keeps building often simply from consolidation, unpack, wash, dry, and sort of collect more kitchen stuff, do some laundry, and sort bedding. I think I might get much of that done today. Oh, if I do find the card and get into town, I will get that last bill in the mail. How is that for a zinger? Oh, not enough? If, again, if, I make it into town, I will see if my friend wishes to go for something to eat. No shooting, no cruising, though perhaps to Wal-Mart if he wants to go, and a meal. We will see.
Later.
.
Just a bit of sleep this morning. I tried to sleep a bit between 3:00 and 9:00, but it was not going to happen. I think I dozed for a few minutes, off and on, and very lightly, between 9:00 and 11:00 or so, getting an advance call around 11:00 that the bed was arriving. It is weird how much work I did to prep for such a short little job to be done. They were in, had it set up, and out in 10 minutes maximum from the time they rolled up to the doorway. It is a beautiful thing though. The bed is like a crown jewel on a crafted band, in a way.
I am trying to find the credit card that will work. I have, if I can find that, decided I will go with the Vizio Wal-Mart sells, and instore, for the moment. If I really do not like it, I will take it back and try the 240 hz refresh rated television (which has to be ordered) or even some other brand. The rest of the stuff I can get right now, at the store. If I can fit it in the vehicle and handle the television in the box solo, I can set the thing up myself. I finally took several hours each day over the last three days trying to interpret television lingo. What I got was that many features are simply fiction. The difference between 60, 120, 240, and even 600 Hz refresh rates, to most people, is... nil. Even experts are hard pressed and may only roughly 'sense' a difference. I get all these great tips on buyer traps and seller tricks and... they turn around and fall for every single one them in their suggested top picks. Oh, no, that is too funny right there.
To sum up several such sites' advice... "No, don't buy for this, or this, or this, ignore prices, just get this, this, and this. Now, when you actually want to buy, don't bother with anything but the $best, start with this $2,500 model with all these wonderful features. Though if you really want that cheap set we just told you would be wise to buy, go ahead. But it isn't as much an $Apple in our kickback eye."
I have worked on much more complex systems, in very tight areas, and have since set others up. I do not always like the work. It certainly is not fun to have a single little wire mock you into near tears of fury, it is hot, it is thankless (everyone KNEW you could do it... how hard could it be? is it done yet?). I do not care, but it is fun to point out the dubious nature of the gratitude for men's talents. They only miss that when it is gone (and they have to pay to get it done). Ha, I have two hands (unlike Gore?), can handle the stench of dishes for... well, a good while actually, and have zero fear of dust or even the larger deadlier dust bunnies. So there.
Well, I am showered, dressed, ugly, and happy. I will start looking for the other other credit card and go to town if I can find it... in more ways then one. Today seems to be good, in spite of no sleep, so I am going to roll with it. If I can, I will clear out more empty boxes as that pile keeps building often simply from consolidation, unpack, wash, dry, and sort of collect more kitchen stuff, do some laundry, and sort bedding. I think I might get much of that done today. Oh, if I do find the card and get into town, I will get that last bill in the mail. How is that for a zinger? Oh, not enough? If, again, if, I make it into town, I will see if my friend wishes to go for something to eat. No shooting, no cruising, though perhaps to Wal-Mart if he wants to go, and a meal. We will see.
Later.
No sleep.
.
.
I suppose I will be very tired when they get here. Actually, I am very tired now. I simply cannot get the engine to kick down to idle. With just enough of a headache to add to my inability to sleep, which I have medicated, and the lack of sleep itself, my mind has been wandering.
I keep seeing where alphas are supposed to be sexual experts. I have to admit, I am not a master of the bedroom. Further, after 5 or 6 years, I am not sure I would be able to find the entrance! Well, maybe not quite that bad. However, sex for me has been a simply pleasurable event. Back before anything too serious along religious lines became a consideration, sex was like eating in that I did not eat the same thing all the time, I did not eat even the same things necessarily the same way every time, and I certainly never became an expert if I can chew steak with the rest of them. I enjoyed sex much the way I enjoy eating, some of each event being better than others, and yet even a little snack can set me up well in a pinch or not.
It bothers me a bit that people worry so much about how good they are. To be honest, when I have tried the smooth operator mode, it has always been a chilling thing. Oh, sure, the process would go forward. But if you have half a brain, you learn the queues, the right ones. Now, perhaps too, being a smooth operator just is not my thing and not the thing women I have dealt with were into me for or into themselves. Cool, and yet a bit odd. Still, if I have not always chosen the right type of women to marry, I have usually chosen women who I liked to be with. Real women, natural women, women who became comfortable in their skin with me. Well, the ones who I was with long enough to remember. Or, I should like to remember it that way which is probably in the majority true.
I guess I doubt the sexual expertise of guys and dolls who play that game at least as much as I have concerns, now, about my own situations. To be sure, sexuality is often a play thing, as much acting and rehearsed lines or impromptu but defined works as anything. Flash in the pan one liners and near assaults on a woman's defenses only works, if at all, in the beginning. If you are out to bed and then shed a stable of lassies, it would be the way. I was always looking for a girlfriend, so my approach was different (despite, as is obvious, the poor results (in one sense) that I achieved as a current bachelor, and unattached at that). What I am saying is I do not believe in Johnny "has it in the pants" Getemall or his so-called technique except while playing with barbydolls, and all doing it more for appearances and flash than even the sex itself. Enough about that, for now.
The next thing that has been on my mind is computer security. While I think this machine I am on has been hopelessly compromised (and I think I know who did it, or at least caused the majority of the problems), I do what I can to limit that and to prevent others from adding to the problem or, as they easily might, making the problem(s) much worse. Of course, there are commercial security suites. Which, I suppose, do help. But they are easy pray to such a large group of people who want to hack, steal, eavesdrop, or just hassle. Just assume anything you write or store on your machine is compromised if it is connected to the internet in any way, even for short periods of time. If you do work that is actually worth security measures, simply do not use a computer which accesses the internet upon which to store it unless you have an IT manager who knows his stuff. What percentage of bugs can be found, so blocked or eliminated from a computer by a commercial security suite (and buying does seem to be better)? I have heard it is in the range of 60 to 65 percent. That is a lot of misses, not including the new stuff coming out every day.
There are other things you can do. I stay away from IE, for one thing. I use FireFox. I may even try to hook up their email program, I am not using one currently. Anything that has a very large percentage of users is at risk, then adding Microsoft's refusal to deal nicely, fairly, or openly with 3rd party vendors, and some say their paying customers, and you get what we get every day. On top of FireFox, I use a small group of add-ons. No-Script allows me to choose what, on any particular site I visit, I wish to allow. I literally do not allow advertisement of almost any sort. This may frustrate some who use the internet as an income vehicle, but I am simply tired of that... and the risks that come with it. I also use Adblock Plus as a backup and BetterPrivacy to bolster the others. I would guess all browsers have these type of add-on apps. They are easy to install and mine work very well. Just make sure you go through the browser's own area for these, making sure you are on a legitimate download site, and then look over the add-ons carefully. Choose add-ons that are being maintained, have a pedigree greater than others, but those which seem to have many downloads and good reports. Avoid add-ons, in my opinion, that look too complicated for you to use but you will have to learn a lot no matter what so choose wisely here (do you have an half hour a day to tinker or bits of time while otherwise surfing?), avoid apps that promise the sky and the moon too on odd Thursdays (they will not deliver), or that are new and fad like (they probably are).
I do what I can, but I know my machine is compromised. Perhaps the steps I have taken make it impossible, or even more complicated or painful for the abusers, or maybe nothing but complicate new hackers. I do not know. Not for certain. But I am doing what I can since, like immigration and a host of other things, the government will do nothing. And you wonder why I am a 'gun clinger'? Oh, and for that matter, why I stick with the bible too. What is the choice, the tax code or the bible? Badabing... That is all I am saying. Badabing...
.
I suppose I will be very tired when they get here. Actually, I am very tired now. I simply cannot get the engine to kick down to idle. With just enough of a headache to add to my inability to sleep, which I have medicated, and the lack of sleep itself, my mind has been wandering.
I keep seeing where alphas are supposed to be sexual experts. I have to admit, I am not a master of the bedroom. Further, after 5 or 6 years, I am not sure I would be able to find the entrance! Well, maybe not quite that bad. However, sex for me has been a simply pleasurable event. Back before anything too serious along religious lines became a consideration, sex was like eating in that I did not eat the same thing all the time, I did not eat even the same things necessarily the same way every time, and I certainly never became an expert if I can chew steak with the rest of them. I enjoyed sex much the way I enjoy eating, some of each event being better than others, and yet even a little snack can set me up well in a pinch or not.
It bothers me a bit that people worry so much about how good they are. To be honest, when I have tried the smooth operator mode, it has always been a chilling thing. Oh, sure, the process would go forward. But if you have half a brain, you learn the queues, the right ones. Now, perhaps too, being a smooth operator just is not my thing and not the thing women I have dealt with were into me for or into themselves. Cool, and yet a bit odd. Still, if I have not always chosen the right type of women to marry, I have usually chosen women who I liked to be with. Real women, natural women, women who became comfortable in their skin with me. Well, the ones who I was with long enough to remember. Or, I should like to remember it that way which is probably in the majority true.
I guess I doubt the sexual expertise of guys and dolls who play that game at least as much as I have concerns, now, about my own situations. To be sure, sexuality is often a play thing, as much acting and rehearsed lines or impromptu but defined works as anything. Flash in the pan one liners and near assaults on a woman's defenses only works, if at all, in the beginning. If you are out to bed and then shed a stable of lassies, it would be the way. I was always looking for a girlfriend, so my approach was different (despite, as is obvious, the poor results (in one sense) that I achieved as a current bachelor, and unattached at that). What I am saying is I do not believe in Johnny "has it in the pants" Getemall or his so-called technique except while playing with barbydolls, and all doing it more for appearances and flash than even the sex itself. Enough about that, for now.
The next thing that has been on my mind is computer security. While I think this machine I am on has been hopelessly compromised (and I think I know who did it, or at least caused the majority of the problems), I do what I can to limit that and to prevent others from adding to the problem or, as they easily might, making the problem(s) much worse. Of course, there are commercial security suites. Which, I suppose, do help. But they are easy pray to such a large group of people who want to hack, steal, eavesdrop, or just hassle. Just assume anything you write or store on your machine is compromised if it is connected to the internet in any way, even for short periods of time. If you do work that is actually worth security measures, simply do not use a computer which accesses the internet upon which to store it unless you have an IT manager who knows his stuff. What percentage of bugs can be found, so blocked or eliminated from a computer by a commercial security suite (and buying does seem to be better)? I have heard it is in the range of 60 to 65 percent. That is a lot of misses, not including the new stuff coming out every day.
There are other things you can do. I stay away from IE, for one thing. I use FireFox. I may even try to hook up their email program, I am not using one currently. Anything that has a very large percentage of users is at risk, then adding Microsoft's refusal to deal nicely, fairly, or openly with 3rd party vendors, and some say their paying customers, and you get what we get every day. On top of FireFox, I use a small group of add-ons. No-Script allows me to choose what, on any particular site I visit, I wish to allow. I literally do not allow advertisement of almost any sort. This may frustrate some who use the internet as an income vehicle, but I am simply tired of that... and the risks that come with it. I also use Adblock Plus as a backup and BetterPrivacy to bolster the others. I would guess all browsers have these type of add-on apps. They are easy to install and mine work very well. Just make sure you go through the browser's own area for these, making sure you are on a legitimate download site, and then look over the add-ons carefully. Choose add-ons that are being maintained, have a pedigree greater than others, but those which seem to have many downloads and good reports. Avoid add-ons, in my opinion, that look too complicated for you to use but you will have to learn a lot no matter what so choose wisely here (do you have an half hour a day to tinker or bits of time while otherwise surfing?), avoid apps that promise the sky and the moon too on odd Thursdays (they will not deliver), or that are new and fad like (they probably are).
I do what I can, but I know my machine is compromised. Perhaps the steps I have taken make it impossible, or even more complicated or painful for the abusers, or maybe nothing but complicate new hackers. I do not know. Not for certain. But I am doing what I can since, like immigration and a host of other things, the government will do nothing. And you wonder why I am a 'gun clinger'? Oh, and for that matter, why I stick with the bible too. What is the choice, the tax code or the bible? Badabing... That is all I am saying. Badabing...
As done as it gets.
.
.
The spare bedroom has been emptied. I am leaving two things in there though, cheapo plastic dressers. Either my mother or I will or may need or want those. For now, that is what I have. I purchased them as portable dressers, not wanting to pull my good one out or tow it around. The living room has been cleared, if it could still use a little more. And it is arranged for when I get a television. This computer room has had a good half of the items removed, but where I am storing this type of stuff is full. And I just do not have it in me to rearrange that to stack more in. So, it is a done deal, if not perfect.
Neck is letting me know I pushed. It is not that the work was great, but today is an off day. Not just because I did a bit more yesterday, but because it is for reasons all by itself. Still, I pushed past that and got to some things. Late, sure, but just as well as I would have if I had been on an good day. What, precisely, will it cost in the near future, I cannot say. Hopefully I have gotten past that enough that I can sneak an extra work day in. Time will tell.
On a very positive upside, the living room will be much more enjoyable from now on. As well, with the kitchen table set up and the proper chairs around it, the bed set up, and the kitchen together enough to use roughly, I am almost home. I really want to get more done, before my mother arrives. I do not want her working physically. I want her to merely work on trim, neatness, lady things. And, I want to enjoy time with her. Just time spent remembering, playing, and talking. It is better to have had and lost than to have never lost. The more terrible the loss the greater the life. One of us may not have a lot of time left. Especially if one of us does not get on the ball.
I am doing well. I am over my head and... learning to swim? Learning to breath water more like! Ah, perhaps a bit of both. I still have far more to do just moving in than what I had hoped and yet I could not have done what I have done a year ago, certainly not with one hand. I feel the pull to go back to sleep and just duck it all, but I feel a stronger need to arrange for my survival in a rough future. It is a real pull, if too I am using it as a crutch to keep on some track. For me, starting with the basics is good, vital, not optional. Perhaps I will figure things out from there. Sam, by having needs only I can fill, has been a part of that. Rabbits are next, though perhaps not as quickly as I had hoped?
Yes, a good off day. Some prospects for a good tomorrow. And perhaps my mother can come into a little tidier mess:) As well, perhaps she can find some peace in her 'trouble' child's new ways and means. To lift some of that worry from her aging shoulders would be a blessing for me. One more piece of history tended and well, an often dark and tumultuous one. This could be good.
Good night, Mom. See ya soon.
.
The spare bedroom has been emptied. I am leaving two things in there though, cheapo plastic dressers. Either my mother or I will or may need or want those. For now, that is what I have. I purchased them as portable dressers, not wanting to pull my good one out or tow it around. The living room has been cleared, if it could still use a little more. And it is arranged for when I get a television. This computer room has had a good half of the items removed, but where I am storing this type of stuff is full. And I just do not have it in me to rearrange that to stack more in. So, it is a done deal, if not perfect.
Neck is letting me know I pushed. It is not that the work was great, but today is an off day. Not just because I did a bit more yesterday, but because it is for reasons all by itself. Still, I pushed past that and got to some things. Late, sure, but just as well as I would have if I had been on an good day. What, precisely, will it cost in the near future, I cannot say. Hopefully I have gotten past that enough that I can sneak an extra work day in. Time will tell.
On a very positive upside, the living room will be much more enjoyable from now on. As well, with the kitchen table set up and the proper chairs around it, the bed set up, and the kitchen together enough to use roughly, I am almost home. I really want to get more done, before my mother arrives. I do not want her working physically. I want her to merely work on trim, neatness, lady things. And, I want to enjoy time with her. Just time spent remembering, playing, and talking. It is better to have had and lost than to have never lost. The more terrible the loss the greater the life. One of us may not have a lot of time left. Especially if one of us does not get on the ball.
I am doing well. I am over my head and... learning to swim? Learning to breath water more like! Ah, perhaps a bit of both. I still have far more to do just moving in than what I had hoped and yet I could not have done what I have done a year ago, certainly not with one hand. I feel the pull to go back to sleep and just duck it all, but I feel a stronger need to arrange for my survival in a rough future. It is a real pull, if too I am using it as a crutch to keep on some track. For me, starting with the basics is good, vital, not optional. Perhaps I will figure things out from there. Sam, by having needs only I can fill, has been a part of that. Rabbits are next, though perhaps not as quickly as I had hoped?
Yes, a good off day. Some prospects for a good tomorrow. And perhaps my mother can come into a little tidier mess:) As well, perhaps she can find some peace in her 'trouble' child's new ways and means. To lift some of that worry from her aging shoulders would be a blessing for me. One more piece of history tended and well, an often dark and tumultuous one. This could be good.
Good night, Mom. See ya soon.
Procrastination?
.
.
Of course. It is my middle name, though some say it should be or even is my real first name. I am thinking about that myself. The heavy lifting part of the schedule has been held off until, I had a nap, I had another nap, until it was cool, until... well, right before bedtime. It is indeed right before bedtime. In spite of my naps, I am still exhausted. Never mind all that, I have almost completed even that part. Sam is helping, off and on, by running up and down the stairs, making sure no mice pull a sneak attack and just in case I forget where to go next. What a champ!
A little water as I cool down. Then a steak dinner. Another half hour or hour after that and I will try to expand on the work I am doing, while I am at it. Sleep is just not going to be in the cards until a good deal later, though I think it will be a restful sleep. I am hoping to have the the spare bedroom empty (I am sorting as I go a bit, too), the living room empty save for furniture and have that sorted into a real living space configuration, and this computer room empty. I have done 70 percent of the spare bedroom. I swear, someone was putting boxes in while I was taking them out! I have about 70 percent of the living room sorted, but this, the computer room, will need a good half hour to hour by itself, depending on how complex sorting and space for that is by then. Let us not discuss the kitchen.
You know, for one grumpy old bachelor, I have a lot of stuff. Most of it good or better, or... it used to be. While unpacking I will find out what has weathered heat and an arid climate. Though I suspect it will be in good shape still. Well, dinner is on! I might indicate what I was able to get done as I cool down after a shower and before bed. Or, I might become a lump somewhere and forget my name by the time I am done. I like being a lump sometimes. Later or good night, Pam.
.
Of course. It is my middle name, though some say it should be or even is my real first name. I am thinking about that myself. The heavy lifting part of the schedule has been held off until, I had a nap, I had another nap, until it was cool, until... well, right before bedtime. It is indeed right before bedtime. In spite of my naps, I am still exhausted. Never mind all that, I have almost completed even that part. Sam is helping, off and on, by running up and down the stairs, making sure no mice pull a sneak attack and just in case I forget where to go next. What a champ!
A little water as I cool down. Then a steak dinner. Another half hour or hour after that and I will try to expand on the work I am doing, while I am at it. Sleep is just not going to be in the cards until a good deal later, though I think it will be a restful sleep. I am hoping to have the the spare bedroom empty (I am sorting as I go a bit, too), the living room empty save for furniture and have that sorted into a real living space configuration, and this computer room empty. I have done 70 percent of the spare bedroom. I swear, someone was putting boxes in while I was taking them out! I have about 70 percent of the living room sorted, but this, the computer room, will need a good half hour to hour by itself, depending on how complex sorting and space for that is by then. Let us not discuss the kitchen.
You know, for one grumpy old bachelor, I have a lot of stuff. Most of it good or better, or... it used to be. While unpacking I will find out what has weathered heat and an arid climate. Though I suspect it will be in good shape still. Well, dinner is on! I might indicate what I was able to get done as I cool down after a shower and before bed. Or, I might become a lump somewhere and forget my name by the time I am done. I like being a lump sometimes. Later or good night, Pam.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Yeah, okay, no tv yet.
.
.
I have been... holding back regarding ordering a television. Why? Who knows how long it would take to actually arrive, how much more it would cost, and some other things. I have some options. If I do not like them, they are better in the short and long run. I have been hanging on that all day, and exhaustion. I have been fighting that along with the uncertainty regarding a tv. I have had to take two naps. I have done other things though. I am down to one bill left. And that only because I did not go into town today.
As the day cools, I will be back in moving mode. The bed arrives tomorrow, there is no more time. It will be done, and more. It is all good. Today would usually be an off day. I feel like it is worse than usual though I think it only feels that way as I have so much I want to do. A normal off day is frustrating, but I have learned to accept it for now (trying to get beyond it as a next step). On those days I have to do things on my off day though, it is a horrid impediment. It does go to show me that this 'failing' probably is biomechanical, biochemical, or something. In other words, I am not just lazy. I need to be reminded some times if I also need to be reminded that I can be lazy. *poke* *poke*
Okies, some more links. I like these linky dinky things. More and more, as it turns out. They add content, shorten my post at point of contact, and provide lots of fun. Plus, I can comment on these in a place where it makes sense. Some sites have 50 to 300 comments... Yeah, not going to bother usually. Fire and forget is as good as that gets. But here I can swim.
I have been trying to go without ac here. And, as a fact, I do not have anything but a ceiling fan. This will change. For now, it is what I have and I have been too busy to mess with more. I can, actually, live without it. At least if I am willing to set aside normal business scheduling and model my life around the cool, sort of. Most cannot do that. Simply put though, I do not wish to do so. However, what I do or do not do should have nothing to do with others. And it certainly should be of no import to some city twit who knows nothing but hate for those who are conservative, live in hot locals, or want to be functional as a nation, world super power, or industrially progressive center. What do you think has allowed him to become what he is? Well, actually, that is the only argument for what he suggests, and the one argument against AC he does not offer. Go figure. If he likes no AC, might I suggest one of many fine S. American nations. He will find why sloth of heat is not such a great thing. May he enjoy the mosquitoes and diseases from impure water while he is at it!
Ah, the religion of peace. Between their benevolence to their own, their open mind to the human conditions and all the frailties wrought thereabouts, and the wonderful legal system it provides, is a little article which might seem quite insignificant compared to what others provide their viewers. It is in the seeming insignificance that I find the heart of the matter. One of my favorites, from the real side is... what you do to the least of these, you do also to me.
Oh, I do not always like my comments. Often they are fire and forget. At sites where there are reasonable numbers of other responses and occasional feedback, I will go back and look. Every once in a while, I look and say, "I did that!". Well, this is one of them. I do not know if a weird muse attacks my neural network and takes over, if I go through a tickled pink moment, or what, but it happens. Short and sweet, to me. Like it or not, damn you. I do. I cannot remember if I like Chuck or not, though I know he shoots it as he sees it. That left my fingers and the enter button was hit before I knew what I was doing.
This article, by Vox, has me scratching my head. I do see the potential for gains in the midterm, though I am dubious about an actual changing of the guard. I do not see Republicans of any stripe taking back Congress, the Senate is way out I think. But this lends to some hope. I cannot remember how well Vox predictions weather fact. I do remain dubious. And, further, doubt if much would change even so. Republicans, and really all politicians, are weak kneed populists who read the news papers for popular opinion (and praise, which they crave). I would love to be proven wrong on both scores, but I am not holding my breath.
My name, Doom, is not just this or that, but it is a way of life in a way. When I walk outside at night, I do not become lost in the night, I become the night or even absorb it. And yet that darkness is not a thing of shame or harm or depression, necessarily. I just see things from perspectives others often cannot or will not. I do not pout about it or shout about it. If I shout, it is about someone's absolute refusal to see the dark of night clearly before them. *grins*
Anyway, that is it for now. Time for more boxes.
.
I have been... holding back regarding ordering a television. Why? Who knows how long it would take to actually arrive, how much more it would cost, and some other things. I have some options. If I do not like them, they are better in the short and long run. I have been hanging on that all day, and exhaustion. I have been fighting that along with the uncertainty regarding a tv. I have had to take two naps. I have done other things though. I am down to one bill left. And that only because I did not go into town today.
As the day cools, I will be back in moving mode. The bed arrives tomorrow, there is no more time. It will be done, and more. It is all good. Today would usually be an off day. I feel like it is worse than usual though I think it only feels that way as I have so much I want to do. A normal off day is frustrating, but I have learned to accept it for now (trying to get beyond it as a next step). On those days I have to do things on my off day though, it is a horrid impediment. It does go to show me that this 'failing' probably is biomechanical, biochemical, or something. In other words, I am not just lazy. I need to be reminded some times if I also need to be reminded that I can be lazy. *poke* *poke*
Okies, some more links. I like these linky dinky things. More and more, as it turns out. They add content, shorten my post at point of contact, and provide lots of fun. Plus, I can comment on these in a place where it makes sense. Some sites have 50 to 300 comments... Yeah, not going to bother usually. Fire and forget is as good as that gets. But here I can swim.
I have been trying to go without ac here. And, as a fact, I do not have anything but a ceiling fan. This will change. For now, it is what I have and I have been too busy to mess with more. I can, actually, live without it. At least if I am willing to set aside normal business scheduling and model my life around the cool, sort of. Most cannot do that. Simply put though, I do not wish to do so. However, what I do or do not do should have nothing to do with others. And it certainly should be of no import to some city twit who knows nothing but hate for those who are conservative, live in hot locals, or want to be functional as a nation, world super power, or industrially progressive center. What do you think has allowed him to become what he is? Well, actually, that is the only argument for what he suggests, and the one argument against AC he does not offer. Go figure. If he likes no AC, might I suggest one of many fine S. American nations. He will find why sloth of heat is not such a great thing. May he enjoy the mosquitoes and diseases from impure water while he is at it!
Ah, the religion of peace. Between their benevolence to their own, their open mind to the human conditions and all the frailties wrought thereabouts, and the wonderful legal system it provides, is a little article which might seem quite insignificant compared to what others provide their viewers. It is in the seeming insignificance that I find the heart of the matter. One of my favorites, from the real side is... what you do to the least of these, you do also to me.
Oh, I do not always like my comments. Often they are fire and forget. At sites where there are reasonable numbers of other responses and occasional feedback, I will go back and look. Every once in a while, I look and say, "I did that!". Well, this is one of them. I do not know if a weird muse attacks my neural network and takes over, if I go through a tickled pink moment, or what, but it happens. Short and sweet, to me. Like it or not, damn you. I do. I cannot remember if I like Chuck or not, though I know he shoots it as he sees it. That left my fingers and the enter button was hit before I knew what I was doing.
This article, by Vox, has me scratching my head. I do see the potential for gains in the midterm, though I am dubious about an actual changing of the guard. I do not see Republicans of any stripe taking back Congress, the Senate is way out I think. But this lends to some hope. I cannot remember how well Vox predictions weather fact. I do remain dubious. And, further, doubt if much would change even so. Republicans, and really all politicians, are weak kneed populists who read the news papers for popular opinion (and praise, which they crave). I would love to be proven wrong on both scores, but I am not holding my breath.
My name, Doom, is not just this or that, but it is a way of life in a way. When I walk outside at night, I do not become lost in the night, I become the night or even absorb it. And yet that darkness is not a thing of shame or harm or depression, necessarily. I just see things from perspectives others often cannot or will not. I do not pout about it or shout about it. If I shout, it is about someone's absolute refusal to see the dark of night clearly before them. *grins*
Anyway, that is it for now. Time for more boxes.
Slow and low.
.
.
Not getting as much done as fast as I would like. But I am tracking better than I might have hoped. Getting out of bed and going has been a struggle today. Still, a trip to town to check on the tv and such, do a bit more shopping, then be back in time to finish the bedroom box move should still work. I might get more than that done, I might get less. But I absolutely have to clear the bedroom of boxes. Tomorrow the new bed arrives. I have paid for 3 out of the 5 bills this morning too, setting one up for automatic pay. I am having trouble getting online or anyone on the phone for another utility bill, but I was able to pay it. Hmm, might send one through the mail today while in town. Leaving only one to figure out. So, some things done.
Looking through the news, while trying to get things going, I often see things I want to post, offering some comments. I rarely do that, but today is one of those days.
College kids, the intellectual hope of any nation? Yeah, well, not all of them. I think this story puts things in perspective. Way to go Skyler! Keep taking those pictures. Your future is brighter than some of your subjects.
Okay, this next set regards wildlife and the options we have. In this case, I can only imagine the waste and expense involved. Handling wildlife IS our responsibility, but when become so forward that we become backward... to the point of massive slaughter, I have to think something is very wrong. In this next case, I do not think there is an option if the end is disappointing. So far, other than perhaps in California, there are no such thing as animal psychiatrists. Though I would dearly love to see a self-proclaimed one give it a whack... in a locked cage, unarmed, mind you. Well, heck, I would let any who wanted to feel the animals pain go on in. Call me sentimental. While not always an option, some animals are too old or big for this to work, I had to chuckle at this story. I hope it works in the long term too. Something about teaching them while they are young. I really did not think the story could be true. Still chuckling.
Oh, fine. I am about to shower and ship out.
.
Not getting as much done as fast as I would like. But I am tracking better than I might have hoped. Getting out of bed and going has been a struggle today. Still, a trip to town to check on the tv and such, do a bit more shopping, then be back in time to finish the bedroom box move should still work. I might get more than that done, I might get less. But I absolutely have to clear the bedroom of boxes. Tomorrow the new bed arrives. I have paid for 3 out of the 5 bills this morning too, setting one up for automatic pay. I am having trouble getting online or anyone on the phone for another utility bill, but I was able to pay it. Hmm, might send one through the mail today while in town. Leaving only one to figure out. So, some things done.
Looking through the news, while trying to get things going, I often see things I want to post, offering some comments. I rarely do that, but today is one of those days.
College kids, the intellectual hope of any nation? Yeah, well, not all of them. I think this story puts things in perspective. Way to go Skyler! Keep taking those pictures. Your future is brighter than some of your subjects.
Okay, this next set regards wildlife and the options we have. In this case, I can only imagine the waste and expense involved. Handling wildlife IS our responsibility, but when become so forward that we become backward... to the point of massive slaughter, I have to think something is very wrong. In this next case, I do not think there is an option if the end is disappointing. So far, other than perhaps in California, there are no such thing as animal psychiatrists. Though I would dearly love to see a self-proclaimed one give it a whack... in a locked cage, unarmed, mind you. Well, heck, I would let any who wanted to feel the animals pain go on in. Call me sentimental. While not always an option, some animals are too old or big for this to work, I had to chuckle at this story. I hope it works in the long term too. Something about teaching them while they are young. I really did not think the story could be true. Still chuckling.
Oh, fine. I am about to shower and ship out.
Okay, I think I found it.
.
.
After all that time spent looking for an LG device, I realize I was on a bit of a wild goose chase. LG does indeed have a system that offers wireless connection, but only to the rear speakers and bass. And, at a much steeper price. However, another company says this piece will do that job just as well. Now, if you follow that page around and look at what else they offer, you might come to a similar conclusion. That is, this site will offer electronic cancer cures, if they could just get by the FDA. I am not sure about this ad or offer or company. I am sure there are other companies out there, with similar good or bad offerings. Knowing which to pick would be tricky. I would guess an expensive trial and error phase would need to be employed. Expensive because I am almost guessing if the device arrives, and does sort of work, but the sound is horrid, or actually quite possibly even if the thing does not work, getting your money back might be as dubious as many of the claims therein. Must I remind you? Okay, fine... X-ray glasses ring a bell? Spy camera, knife, compass all in one sound familiar? Or, how about water monkey families? I learned more from comic books than anyone would have guessed.
I am not sure about this whole tv thing. I do despise the stuff. Local news, however, would be good. Some access to national news is also good from time to time. The rest of the stuff is just not my thing. The lives of actors, the Hollywood way even to directors and whoever else, the sheer stupidity of most comedy, the political and religious vile nature of it all, and... commercials along with that. If I were a dog, asking if I like television would be like asking me if I liked tics... the kind that not only have the normal affect, but then double the effects through costing me some of my food and pleasure to boot. Still, it is a social device. And, there are movies I do enjoy. I have a small collection of them as is. I actually pray about these matters, and cannot always find... peace in that.
Oh, I have one conspiracy theory to shoot down. I had heard this and that, but had never truly investigated. Now, even if this is shot down, I still believe both psychotropics and psychiatry/psychology is all, or minimally based upon, mind control. I have some belief that all data collected, on willing subjects, is being analyzed for... other uses. Whether the "doctors" know or not matters not a bit. I will not target all such 'theories', some of them are favored. I like the idea that Kennedy got it coming AND going, or is it the reverse, for example. I am over bigfoot though. There are others I like, if aliens (of any kind) need not apply.
While checking the garden, I noticed a tomato coming on, several small jalapeños, but the bell peppers do not seem to be getting bigger if they are burning. *sigh* As well, I have been changing how and what gets watered, to good effect. No extra crop, but the plants look healthier after only a day and a half. The tomatoes and others have been being watered the same. It seems that only the tomatoes need (or want) that much water. So, I have switched things around. I still do not know if I will actually get anything, but it is a first jab at the notion. Years of practice, is my guess, on many or all of the produce I wish to grow and eat.
I best get to moving boxes. The computer room is next. I am not sure I will get any more boxes out of the spare bedroom on top of that, but it could happen. A late supper, a quick shower, and then to bed. Who knows. My plans might actually work out.
.
After all that time spent looking for an LG device, I realize I was on a bit of a wild goose chase. LG does indeed have a system that offers wireless connection, but only to the rear speakers and bass. And, at a much steeper price. However, another company says this piece will do that job just as well. Now, if you follow that page around and look at what else they offer, you might come to a similar conclusion. That is, this site will offer electronic cancer cures, if they could just get by the FDA. I am not sure about this ad or offer or company. I am sure there are other companies out there, with similar good or bad offerings. Knowing which to pick would be tricky. I would guess an expensive trial and error phase would need to be employed. Expensive because I am almost guessing if the device arrives, and does sort of work, but the sound is horrid, or actually quite possibly even if the thing does not work, getting your money back might be as dubious as many of the claims therein. Must I remind you? Okay, fine... X-ray glasses ring a bell? Spy camera, knife, compass all in one sound familiar? Or, how about water monkey families? I learned more from comic books than anyone would have guessed.
I am not sure about this whole tv thing. I do despise the stuff. Local news, however, would be good. Some access to national news is also good from time to time. The rest of the stuff is just not my thing. The lives of actors, the Hollywood way even to directors and whoever else, the sheer stupidity of most comedy, the political and religious vile nature of it all, and... commercials along with that. If I were a dog, asking if I like television would be like asking me if I liked tics... the kind that not only have the normal affect, but then double the effects through costing me some of my food and pleasure to boot. Still, it is a social device. And, there are movies I do enjoy. I have a small collection of them as is. I actually pray about these matters, and cannot always find... peace in that.
Oh, I have one conspiracy theory to shoot down. I had heard this and that, but had never truly investigated. Now, even if this is shot down, I still believe both psychotropics and psychiatry/psychology is all, or minimally based upon, mind control. I have some belief that all data collected, on willing subjects, is being analyzed for... other uses. Whether the "doctors" know or not matters not a bit. I will not target all such 'theories', some of them are favored. I like the idea that Kennedy got it coming AND going, or is it the reverse, for example. I am over bigfoot though. There are others I like, if aliens (of any kind) need not apply.
While checking the garden, I noticed a tomato coming on, several small jalapeños, but the bell peppers do not seem to be getting bigger if they are burning. *sigh* As well, I have been changing how and what gets watered, to good effect. No extra crop, but the plants look healthier after only a day and a half. The tomatoes and others have been being watered the same. It seems that only the tomatoes need (or want) that much water. So, I have switched things around. I still do not know if I will actually get anything, but it is a first jab at the notion. Years of practice, is my guess, on many or all of the produce I wish to grow and eat.
I best get to moving boxes. The computer room is next. I am not sure I will get any more boxes out of the spare bedroom on top of that, but it could happen. A late supper, a quick shower, and then to bed. Who knows. My plans might actually work out.
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