.
.
I went to bed some time after midnight. I woke... ...sometime. It is now nearly noon but I have no idea how long I have been awake... an hour, three, no idea. I looked at the clock and my watch when waking, to sort things out, but short term memory, until now, has been short circuited to be only functional in the moment, zero retention was to be had.
Sore. I have been sore since the morning after the main burn of the Man. Ribs. It felt as if I had slightly bruised my ribs. The giblets in there feel awful, a bit, too. Hmm, that might have been part of what brought the dream to the places it went? Yes, maybe. I think, having run out of medicines, effectively, on Monday or Tuesday, and drinking lots of fluids to stay hydrated, I simply began to water bloat. I knew I wanted to get back on medicine when I got back, but was hoping a bit of rest would alleviate the pain, not initially realizing it wasn't from physically over-doing. So I was waiting for the pain to subside before, potentially, taking a nose dive restarting medicine. Last night it came to me, what the problem really is, so I started just the water pills, for the moment. I need to flush the fluid from my torso so that I can do a bit of work unpacking before taking the full hit of medicine and possibly going down for a week, two, or even a month or more.
Desert Cat probably wonders how I can say I am diminished, physically, after what I did getting to and from the events, and what I did there. But if he can equate his social to my physical, I think he can understand plainly. What I was able to do in these last weeks was more, combined, solo and group work, than I have done in decades. The intensity and timeliness of it might make it more than I have done, in that time, combined, especially when tossing in the heat stress and lack of sleep. A typical military op, if you ask me, but well beyond my capacity for most of my years.
Never mind. I will give the water pill one more day to work it's magic, then begin unpacking tomorrow. I might even get the roof pack unloaded and removed yet today, just to get the Xt'er out of the sun and into the garage to ease my unpacking efforts when they arrive. I will save doing anything until the evening hits though. The sun and myself are not on speaking terms until I figure out how to release some of that burn. *hiss*
Neither of us burned, actually. Which is rather amazing. Desert Cat seems... immune. He has truly become a child of the desert. He got a bit darker, but not much. Even covered, a bit, out there, is not often enough. Tough skin? Neither of us ended up using the sun block. Me because it got lost, or really because I was too exhausted to mess with it. He because he thinks it messes with his sweat processes. He stayed relatively light, I went the way of a medium roast coffee. It was odd seeing others burn. Remember, I have been hidden from the sun for decades.
Oh, and the noise levels? I was never bothered by them. Then again we were not right next to the louder areas. Still, it was music at almost all hours of the day and night. When they stopped at, Desert Cat suggests, 4:00 in the morning, and give or take on the day, he would wake. Sort of funny in a way, if it makes sense. Me? When I finally got to sleep in the cool, if God came for us He would have had to help me or leave an angel to guide me upon waking. *grins* *BaM* A-sleep. I slept quite well out there, when it got cool enough. Never needed anything on top of me, either, if I kept it handy just in case. My body will, in sleep, pull something over, if it wants/needs it... but only if it is easy to find. I slept, in my bag, like an open pea pod.
Well... on to... goofing until I can manage this bloat. Ribs, giblets, and lower back, actually, all in mild to strong pain... I am hoping it is merely water bloat. Then again, in those areas, there isn't much else it could be, like a ring around my lower abdomen. Yes, bloat. Later.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Friday, September 6, 2013
A dream.
.
.
A child, me really, or rather young man, is seen. A portrait of a typical boy or young man, is seen, in the opening of the showing. He seems asleep, but then wakes. He begins talking, in a friendly if vigorous manner. He speaks to any and all, even to the inanimate and primal, such as cats and other animals, trees, even the wind. He speaks with a glad heart, in a kindly manner, and often. He seems strangely animated, there is something different about him.
As the dream progresses it is easy to see that no matter how decently he presents himself or how soft his words, the people who speak with him are disturbed. They see something, if it isn't easily known what that is at first, that causes them distress. As the dream continues it becomes plain to see what their difficulty is. The view pans out so that the whole of this boy can be seen. He has a lance through him, clean through from the back center of him on out the front of his stomach area. It is a ripe wound, bleeding fresh blood from time to time. Behind him is a ghostly figure of a warrior, who holds the lance. One who also does not interact with the others at all. Armed and armored, the ghost warrior merely is there.
In time, one of the braver men seeks audience to ask about the troubles. He asks if the child is in pain. The child acknowledges the pain, but dismisses it as a requirement. The brave man asks if there is something to be done, either to allay the ghast or extricate the child. No, nothing to be done, it is explained. And it is not the spirit that is causing the harm, the child chose it. The ghost, you see, existed first, and alone. The ghost crafted the child from what he once was, in order to set that part of him free. But once created, the child realized he could not live without the ghost. So the child himself took the pike onto himself in order to remain real, at cost to the ghost... To the ghost, another blow to his humanity, one more damage to the world, one less hope that some aspect of himself could be free.
All is not as it seems, suggested the child... who had become animated and friendly again. It is not the warrior who cages me, but I him. I simply would not be without the pain, and attachment. And so I give my lord his dues by being present to all as he cannot be. In service, pain. In life, death. This is merely who we are.
Yeah, perhaps not so much a dream as some may think. Perhaps more an understanding. I know why those in Church, many in civil society, and those at Burning Man... hesitate. The blood flows to this day and so long as we remain alive.
.
A child, me really, or rather young man, is seen. A portrait of a typical boy or young man, is seen, in the opening of the showing. He seems asleep, but then wakes. He begins talking, in a friendly if vigorous manner. He speaks to any and all, even to the inanimate and primal, such as cats and other animals, trees, even the wind. He speaks with a glad heart, in a kindly manner, and often. He seems strangely animated, there is something different about him.
As the dream progresses it is easy to see that no matter how decently he presents himself or how soft his words, the people who speak with him are disturbed. They see something, if it isn't easily known what that is at first, that causes them distress. As the dream continues it becomes plain to see what their difficulty is. The view pans out so that the whole of this boy can be seen. He has a lance through him, clean through from the back center of him on out the front of his stomach area. It is a ripe wound, bleeding fresh blood from time to time. Behind him is a ghostly figure of a warrior, who holds the lance. One who also does not interact with the others at all. Armed and armored, the ghost warrior merely is there.
In time, one of the braver men seeks audience to ask about the troubles. He asks if the child is in pain. The child acknowledges the pain, but dismisses it as a requirement. The brave man asks if there is something to be done, either to allay the ghast or extricate the child. No, nothing to be done, it is explained. And it is not the spirit that is causing the harm, the child chose it. The ghost, you see, existed first, and alone. The ghost crafted the child from what he once was, in order to set that part of him free. But once created, the child realized he could not live without the ghost. So the child himself took the pike onto himself in order to remain real, at cost to the ghost... To the ghost, another blow to his humanity, one more damage to the world, one less hope that some aspect of himself could be free.
All is not as it seems, suggested the child... who had become animated and friendly again. It is not the warrior who cages me, but I him. I simply would not be without the pain, and attachment. And so I give my lord his dues by being present to all as he cannot be. In service, pain. In life, death. This is merely who we are.
Yeah, perhaps not so much a dream as some may think. Perhaps more an understanding. I know why those in Church, many in civil society, and those at Burning Man... hesitate. The blood flows to this day and so long as we remain alive.
So, what was it like, you ask?
.
.
Burning Man was quite an experience. Breaking it down a bit into it's components is necessary. There was the environment and the event itself. I'll start with the physical.
The weather channel suggests that the temperatures were in the 80's to mid 90's for highs, with lows in the 40's and 50's. I personally heard, then read myself from a thermometer there and before the high, a temperature reading of 97 in the shade, literally in the shade. One of my neighbors volunteered at the airport* and reported a reading of 107. I'm not sure where the weather channel gets it's data, all I can suggest is that, like here, their readings are lower than what I have seen. What I will say is that the heat was intense, for my part. Desert Cat thought the temps were fine, for the most part. Then again I think he has an ability to focus like a laser, a tolerance of heat that is nigh on amazing, or a bit of both. He was pumped to be there and to... try out being... more social? Which he did very well. He was more a burner than many burners! For my part? I still carry the heat from the event. It was punishing.
*Burning Man, Black Rock City, has it's own international airport while it is in session. It is only 1/2 mile from the main camp, so it wouldn't have a different temperature reading.
The other physical part was having to be mobile in the heat. As I saw things the heat never relented until well into the morning, somewhere around 4:00 or 5:00, then staying cool for only a few hours before heating back up around 8:00 or 9:00. Wherever you went you either had to walk or ride a bike. While they do have art cars, I never really saw them as available for transportation. My friend suggested some where available, at times, with a bit of effort, if I am not sure if he rode them either. The nearest bathroom was about a block and a bit more of a walk away. While a pee bottle came in handy, for me that was a one or two shot thing, at a gallon, so at best would only buy some time. Plus then you had to lug the thing in. Better to go to the port-a-potties unless you were spent by the day and only half awake at that. As I suggested, I still got out two or three mornings, evenings, and nights, taking a three to five hour stroll or bike ride around 'town', stopping from time to time for a drink, meal, chat, or to see art or other displays. It did wear me out, if with the somewhat cooler nights I did recover well enough for the next day.
Food prep was easy. The grill worked very well, if I may not be taking it next year. Simply it is a monster to haul and set up, more than I had thought it would be. It takes up vast amounts of cargo space. And yet the food off it was fantastic. With the cast iron pan for bacon, and for eggs if I had remembered them, it was quite a nice item to have this first time. Something smaller next time, such as this grill or this hibachi and maybe a portable solar oven. Dishes were easy enough. A set pan of soapy water and another for rinsing. The rest of the camp, once set, took care of itself. Although if I might recommend, policing dirty clothes every few days, tending to clutter in all areas about the same, and just trying to keep the world in order around the camp such as putting tools away and where they belong after use, really helps it all run much more smoothly. We both did fairly well at this, for my part. I heard no complaints from my friend so I think this was good. Best to do this earlier or later in the day. Midday is simply either a time to look for shade and people with whom to speak or to crawl away for an attempt at a nap.
On the social end of things... well... People are open and approachable. I seemed to give off a strange vibe, one which spooked others. And I did speak my mind if I was quite open to counters and discussion. Honestly, while I did find others who disagreed I didn't find that I was speaking with idiots or polemics of any persuasion, if I just repeated. The liberalism I expected to face simply wasn't there. Oh, I probably got under a few people's skin. Hmm, suggesting to a woman who suggested she was tempted to break her vegetarianism for a pork roast going on that I had saved my last lady friend from her vegetarianism, and explaining how I did it... put her off a bit. Her eyes got as big as saucers. I approached the subject more from the jovial side, and without judgment despite my honest notions. Shell-shocked... that was the look. There were others. But there were better, more surprising, discussions as well. Actually in the field of politics, from what I saw among those I discussed, was a movement away from political affiliations as we know them. Neither of our parties, from the chats I had, are satisfying to those I spoke with there. That... surprised me. There was plenty of middle ground. If there is an 'us versus them' mentality, it is no longer by political camps but according to... people versus the political classes and big movers.
I did sense a fear of me. People where generally still open, just a bit cautious. Desert Cat suggested I take that notion and wrap it up into a presentation next year. Rather than wait and work out a costume of some sort, I actually... played with the notion right there. A couple of open camps I entered, where I felt that fear, I opened with a bit of humor. I suggested something along the lines of, "Hello. I'm from the police. I'm placing me under arrest.". Yes, odd. But the tension could be so solid that the little drop line just broke the ice to waves of grins, chuckles, even a bit of laughter. That opened things up for me a bit. I guess I just have a law and order sort of vibe, which is fine to me to a degree. I'm not interested in exploring some areas.
As to what to do? There is much out there. Viewing art, discussing just about anything under the sun, meeting people, or just testing yourself against the environment. Some have great difficulty there, with the heat, the dust and in particular the alkali nature of the dust which can damage skin, mucus glands, eyes, whatever, and just the crush of people, activity, noise, and arid nature of the place. Combining it all is quite the thing. I can't really tell you what all I did. Much of it was wandering, meeting, and greeting. Looking here and there and just exploring. I suppose I should mention that there are no merchants, save for ice and coffee (both cash only) in the camp. Food was offered, gifts such as necklaces were offered, and drinks were made and put out for any and all. It was a unique place. But wandering the desert, even at such a place leaves little trace in the mind. Though, what all happened there is also just mine, mostly. You... really, truly, had to be there for it to make sense.
Would I go again? In a heartbeat. Well, okay, a year and a heartbeat. My friend suggests I was satisfactory. So if things work out on that end, another go at the thing may be possible. Though a next time will probably be a much simpler situation, if an RV is involved. No setting up and taking down of a large camp and shower and kitchen, no need for packing in tent and cot and such, and much of the water will be onboard. That leaves much more time for getting out and about, and perhaps a cooler place to retreat to in the heat of the day. Actually, I will probably still take my cot and such, for a "daybed" (probably a night bed), for the social tent, in case the RV is still a bit warm when I mean to sleep.
I have some ideas about a potential next time. I am considering how to present Christianity there. Not so much directly, though that will be available through discussion, but in forms of art, gifts, and such. As well, now that I know my libido is in check, I may explore a bit more some of the women who catch my attention. I will be trying to be out and about more in this next year anyway, with similar intent. Got to keep that honest though, wherever I do that. Much to consider, much still to do, and a few things to rethink...
As for the social and cultural aspect? As I had suspected, I was neither shocked nor surprised. I have seen, if smaller, events such as this. My friend, however, was... amazed? He has never seen such little touches of the world, places where rules are what they are. He has come to this, psychologically, socially, and politically from having his world upset by machinations and lawlessness. He seems to have had a rethink of what really is and what could or should be. And yet, to see it again, and see where that world, in this place, has gone, was... pleasing. I... approve. Oh, certainly, I don't condone everything. I don't here at home. I don't in my Church, or any church. But I think I get the gist and, generally, approve. Such places allow questions that aren't allowed in other places, if too they themselves have their own dogmas. I do not fit there, if I am comfortable since I fit nowhere. I make my place of flesh, it is never given. So be it. I will be back, for my part, should the opportunity present itself. Moist soitenly, wise guys.
.
Burning Man was quite an experience. Breaking it down a bit into it's components is necessary. There was the environment and the event itself. I'll start with the physical.
The weather channel suggests that the temperatures were in the 80's to mid 90's for highs, with lows in the 40's and 50's. I personally heard, then read myself from a thermometer there and before the high, a temperature reading of 97 in the shade, literally in the shade. One of my neighbors volunteered at the airport* and reported a reading of 107. I'm not sure where the weather channel gets it's data, all I can suggest is that, like here, their readings are lower than what I have seen. What I will say is that the heat was intense, for my part. Desert Cat thought the temps were fine, for the most part. Then again I think he has an ability to focus like a laser, a tolerance of heat that is nigh on amazing, or a bit of both. He was pumped to be there and to... try out being... more social? Which he did very well. He was more a burner than many burners! For my part? I still carry the heat from the event. It was punishing.
*Burning Man, Black Rock City, has it's own international airport while it is in session. It is only 1/2 mile from the main camp, so it wouldn't have a different temperature reading.
The other physical part was having to be mobile in the heat. As I saw things the heat never relented until well into the morning, somewhere around 4:00 or 5:00, then staying cool for only a few hours before heating back up around 8:00 or 9:00. Wherever you went you either had to walk or ride a bike. While they do have art cars, I never really saw them as available for transportation. My friend suggested some where available, at times, with a bit of effort, if I am not sure if he rode them either. The nearest bathroom was about a block and a bit more of a walk away. While a pee bottle came in handy, for me that was a one or two shot thing, at a gallon, so at best would only buy some time. Plus then you had to lug the thing in. Better to go to the port-a-potties unless you were spent by the day and only half awake at that. As I suggested, I still got out two or three mornings, evenings, and nights, taking a three to five hour stroll or bike ride around 'town', stopping from time to time for a drink, meal, chat, or to see art or other displays. It did wear me out, if with the somewhat cooler nights I did recover well enough for the next day.
Food prep was easy. The grill worked very well, if I may not be taking it next year. Simply it is a monster to haul and set up, more than I had thought it would be. It takes up vast amounts of cargo space. And yet the food off it was fantastic. With the cast iron pan for bacon, and for eggs if I had remembered them, it was quite a nice item to have this first time. Something smaller next time, such as this grill or this hibachi and maybe a portable solar oven. Dishes were easy enough. A set pan of soapy water and another for rinsing. The rest of the camp, once set, took care of itself. Although if I might recommend, policing dirty clothes every few days, tending to clutter in all areas about the same, and just trying to keep the world in order around the camp such as putting tools away and where they belong after use, really helps it all run much more smoothly. We both did fairly well at this, for my part. I heard no complaints from my friend so I think this was good. Best to do this earlier or later in the day. Midday is simply either a time to look for shade and people with whom to speak or to crawl away for an attempt at a nap.
On the social end of things... well... People are open and approachable. I seemed to give off a strange vibe, one which spooked others. And I did speak my mind if I was quite open to counters and discussion. Honestly, while I did find others who disagreed I didn't find that I was speaking with idiots or polemics of any persuasion, if I just repeated. The liberalism I expected to face simply wasn't there. Oh, I probably got under a few people's skin. Hmm, suggesting to a woman who suggested she was tempted to break her vegetarianism for a pork roast going on that I had saved my last lady friend from her vegetarianism, and explaining how I did it... put her off a bit. Her eyes got as big as saucers. I approached the subject more from the jovial side, and without judgment despite my honest notions. Shell-shocked... that was the look. There were others. But there were better, more surprising, discussions as well. Actually in the field of politics, from what I saw among those I discussed, was a movement away from political affiliations as we know them. Neither of our parties, from the chats I had, are satisfying to those I spoke with there. That... surprised me. There was plenty of middle ground. If there is an 'us versus them' mentality, it is no longer by political camps but according to... people versus the political classes and big movers.
I did sense a fear of me. People where generally still open, just a bit cautious. Desert Cat suggested I take that notion and wrap it up into a presentation next year. Rather than wait and work out a costume of some sort, I actually... played with the notion right there. A couple of open camps I entered, where I felt that fear, I opened with a bit of humor. I suggested something along the lines of, "Hello. I'm from the police. I'm placing me under arrest.". Yes, odd. But the tension could be so solid that the little drop line just broke the ice to waves of grins, chuckles, even a bit of laughter. That opened things up for me a bit. I guess I just have a law and order sort of vibe, which is fine to me to a degree. I'm not interested in exploring some areas.
As to what to do? There is much out there. Viewing art, discussing just about anything under the sun, meeting people, or just testing yourself against the environment. Some have great difficulty there, with the heat, the dust and in particular the alkali nature of the dust which can damage skin, mucus glands, eyes, whatever, and just the crush of people, activity, noise, and arid nature of the place. Combining it all is quite the thing. I can't really tell you what all I did. Much of it was wandering, meeting, and greeting. Looking here and there and just exploring. I suppose I should mention that there are no merchants, save for ice and coffee (both cash only) in the camp. Food was offered, gifts such as necklaces were offered, and drinks were made and put out for any and all. It was a unique place. But wandering the desert, even at such a place leaves little trace in the mind. Though, what all happened there is also just mine, mostly. You... really, truly, had to be there for it to make sense.
Would I go again? In a heartbeat. Well, okay, a year and a heartbeat. My friend suggests I was satisfactory. So if things work out on that end, another go at the thing may be possible. Though a next time will probably be a much simpler situation, if an RV is involved. No setting up and taking down of a large camp and shower and kitchen, no need for packing in tent and cot and such, and much of the water will be onboard. That leaves much more time for getting out and about, and perhaps a cooler place to retreat to in the heat of the day. Actually, I will probably still take my cot and such, for a "daybed" (probably a night bed), for the social tent, in case the RV is still a bit warm when I mean to sleep.
I have some ideas about a potential next time. I am considering how to present Christianity there. Not so much directly, though that will be available through discussion, but in forms of art, gifts, and such. As well, now that I know my libido is in check, I may explore a bit more some of the women who catch my attention. I will be trying to be out and about more in this next year anyway, with similar intent. Got to keep that honest though, wherever I do that. Much to consider, much still to do, and a few things to rethink...
As for the social and cultural aspect? As I had suspected, I was neither shocked nor surprised. I have seen, if smaller, events such as this. My friend, however, was... amazed? He has never seen such little touches of the world, places where rules are what they are. He has come to this, psychologically, socially, and politically from having his world upset by machinations and lawlessness. He seems to have had a rethink of what really is and what could or should be. And yet, to see it again, and see where that world, in this place, has gone, was... pleasing. I... approve. Oh, certainly, I don't condone everything. I don't here at home. I don't in my Church, or any church. But I think I get the gist and, generally, approve. Such places allow questions that aren't allowed in other places, if too they themselves have their own dogmas. I do not fit there, if I am comfortable since I fit nowhere. I make my place of flesh, it is never given. So be it. I will be back, for my part, should the opportunity present itself. Moist soitenly, wise guys.
Ah, right, a little promise.
.
.
I told my friend, after being to Burning Man, and listening to the music there, that I had... explored the realm of that sort of music... and had presented them here. I told him I would collect and put them up. Now, some might be more electronica. He got out into the various places and was more available to the music than I, he'll know. Some are definitely dubstep though, I think. Of course... with my branding, not what was usually found on the playa (pronounced pli-ya, not play-a, big difference in many ways). Anyway, after a bit of digging for one of them as I had accidentally wiped it without saving it's location, I have most of them together. One or two escapes me, I think, but... Just wanted to share out a bit of Doom style dubstep/electronica for review.
.
I told my friend, after being to Burning Man, and listening to the music there, that I had... explored the realm of that sort of music... and had presented them here. I told him I would collect and put them up. Now, some might be more electronica. He got out into the various places and was more available to the music than I, he'll know. Some are definitely dubstep though, I think. Of course... with my branding, not what was usually found on the playa (pronounced pli-ya, not play-a, big difference in many ways). Anyway, after a bit of digging for one of them as I had accidentally wiped it without saving it's location, I have most of them together. One or two escapes me, I think, but... Just wanted to share out a bit of Doom style dubstep/electronica for review.
Awake and home!
.
.
I wrote a bit last night. Under the darkness of weariness with the voice of strain. Having an air conditioned sleep for the first time since I left... no, hotels simply do not count, they have huge limits on how fast and cold their units work... I wake to a very new day. The burn of the event was still with me, and to a degree remains. Actually, I left the comfort of cool as soon as I left my home, traveling from desert to desert, some of them horribly humid to boot! Yes, a night of cool to begin taking the flame from my flesh... and tongue? Well, and rest.
Now, I wasn't meaning anything harsh about what I wrote. Merely observations, possibly right, potentially wrong, if at times with an air of disappointment. Further, you know that I am a doubter, a pessimist. Further, and I hope Desert Cat knows this personally now... though I doubt, if it sounds like a good plan I will let you know of my doubts I will set them aside and try at my full pace, strength, and wit, to prove me wrong. So... don't worry children. My doubts, paranoia, and personal foibles are what they are... trinkets from an era where they had been honed, necessary, and used so that I may write to this day.
The trip to and from Burning Man took me over the brim of the world. There were places where some flat driving was as high as 8k to almost 9k. Much of where I traveled was at least 5k. It was all desert, starting from here at home and moving on, perhaps more so on my incorrect trajectory last night. One would think boredom could come from driving through desert. And, stuck with the temps, dew points, and such, and stretched over many days, more weeks, and certainly months, that might become harshly true. Driving in what until less than a century ago became a common instrument for modern man, and with air conditioning to boot, and being able to see several of these various versions of the desert per day made the exploration much more profound... a study rather than a drudgery. I won't say I got it all but I did see some of the miracles of His will embodied into stone, flora, and fauna.
The trip to 'The Jug' was quite a thing on it's own. The last spit of road into the camp was quite rutted. Going in I kept it to 25-30 mph. There was no listed speed. The ruts made controlling the vehicle, even weighed down with kit and carcass, a bit of a trick. As I mentioned, four wheel drive is not a requirement. A slow pace will see you to a better experience. I never employed four wheel drive myself. I still can't get over the views. I did not go all that close to that edge. If I go again, however, I may take something to... anchor. Something I am more sure of, that has been tested otherwise, and get some pictures over the edge, vertigo or no. Alone, I will do that, I do believe. There are few I can be sure... won't do what the world of stone and men seem to mostly want.
I fret about Desert Cat, but the truth is he has one of the better possible responses. Whether I said it or not, his reactions were quite close to my friend, the physics graduate student. Both had, or have had, similar... troubles with women. Both have been, and have to be due to employment to a degree, open to things I have set aside. No kicks meant, just a ground place to start. I fluster both. Hmm, my other friend was an only child, so did not really create a tier. I was always the youngest. I can clearly see where Desert Cat fits in that part of life, and what, itself, could lead to problems. While age is only slightly different, this might be a large part of things. I frustrate people, in general though. I am only partly civilized. Then again, this is as close to it as I have ever been. I told my last lady that she would have truly, absolutely, without a doubt, hated me if she had met me when we were both younger. I also told her we still would have been to bed. I was much... harder... when younger. Rather than dealing with a great white, which often releases upon realizing a mistake, it would have been more like dealing with a bull shark. Physically, emotionally, mentally.
I don't know if that soothes anything. Not sure that is the point, either. I am not sure I can do such things. But the hope is that understandings, at a bit of a level so as to function, can be... expressed.
The girls are good. They were quite happy to see poppa. All I had for them was a bit of vocal greeting, some petting and scratching, and easily not being grumpy at their clamoring. My little ladies, for their part, were quite happy to see me. They weren't quite sure. Sam, the bold and friendly, had to look me over, listen for a bit, sniff around, and even then she approached with caution. Well, she probably knew right away. Like any woman, cat or know, feeling abandoned, she may have simply held a bit of reserve. Short lived, but she let me know I was bad?
Today? I got the bike off, right away, thinking that would allow me to back into the garage. Not so much. Oh, no, the bike came off with no fuss. But the stuff on top has to come out of the carrier, then the carrier has to be removed before the Xt'er will fit the space. That would be my first move, should I move in that direction yet today. I do not know if that will happen. I honestly need a little time to adjust, to get back on medication, and to... figure out my life back and here in the cave. Aye, and I need a bit of rest. Have no doubt that I spent every penny of my accumulated life energy, and then some, in this endeavor. If you find another man who has the potential to be on the heart transplant list who can do these things I should very much like to meet him. A woman? More so, if she did this solo, not if she was dragged along or pampered. I do need... rest... coolness... sitting... something. The burn needs to be excised, though I may just push when most of my reset conditions are met and let that tend to itself over time.
No, I will try to push through with unloading the carrier today. I will then work on restoring order to my castle, in an ongoing set of small task groups, resting much, over the next few days. By Monday I hope to be in condition, along with the cave, to begin processing the load in the X. I did bother with the cooler already, not wanting things to go bad and smell bad. Yes, a plan. A true plan? I won't know until it is time. Hmm, a song... yes... a tune that was on my mind while in the heat and dust and sun. Later.
.
I wrote a bit last night. Under the darkness of weariness with the voice of strain. Having an air conditioned sleep for the first time since I left... no, hotels simply do not count, they have huge limits on how fast and cold their units work... I wake to a very new day. The burn of the event was still with me, and to a degree remains. Actually, I left the comfort of cool as soon as I left my home, traveling from desert to desert, some of them horribly humid to boot! Yes, a night of cool to begin taking the flame from my flesh... and tongue? Well, and rest.
Now, I wasn't meaning anything harsh about what I wrote. Merely observations, possibly right, potentially wrong, if at times with an air of disappointment. Further, you know that I am a doubter, a pessimist. Further, and I hope Desert Cat knows this personally now... though I doubt, if it sounds like a good plan I will let you know of my doubts I will set them aside and try at my full pace, strength, and wit, to prove me wrong. So... don't worry children. My doubts, paranoia, and personal foibles are what they are... trinkets from an era where they had been honed, necessary, and used so that I may write to this day.
The trip to and from Burning Man took me over the brim of the world. There were places where some flat driving was as high as 8k to almost 9k. Much of where I traveled was at least 5k. It was all desert, starting from here at home and moving on, perhaps more so on my incorrect trajectory last night. One would think boredom could come from driving through desert. And, stuck with the temps, dew points, and such, and stretched over many days, more weeks, and certainly months, that might become harshly true. Driving in what until less than a century ago became a common instrument for modern man, and with air conditioning to boot, and being able to see several of these various versions of the desert per day made the exploration much more profound... a study rather than a drudgery. I won't say I got it all but I did see some of the miracles of His will embodied into stone, flora, and fauna.
The trip to 'The Jug' was quite a thing on it's own. The last spit of road into the camp was quite rutted. Going in I kept it to 25-30 mph. There was no listed speed. The ruts made controlling the vehicle, even weighed down with kit and carcass, a bit of a trick. As I mentioned, four wheel drive is not a requirement. A slow pace will see you to a better experience. I never employed four wheel drive myself. I still can't get over the views. I did not go all that close to that edge. If I go again, however, I may take something to... anchor. Something I am more sure of, that has been tested otherwise, and get some pictures over the edge, vertigo or no. Alone, I will do that, I do believe. There are few I can be sure... won't do what the world of stone and men seem to mostly want.
I fret about Desert Cat, but the truth is he has one of the better possible responses. Whether I said it or not, his reactions were quite close to my friend, the physics graduate student. Both had, or have had, similar... troubles with women. Both have been, and have to be due to employment to a degree, open to things I have set aside. No kicks meant, just a ground place to start. I fluster both. Hmm, my other friend was an only child, so did not really create a tier. I was always the youngest. I can clearly see where Desert Cat fits in that part of life, and what, itself, could lead to problems. While age is only slightly different, this might be a large part of things. I frustrate people, in general though. I am only partly civilized. Then again, this is as close to it as I have ever been. I told my last lady that she would have truly, absolutely, without a doubt, hated me if she had met me when we were both younger. I also told her we still would have been to bed. I was much... harder... when younger. Rather than dealing with a great white, which often releases upon realizing a mistake, it would have been more like dealing with a bull shark. Physically, emotionally, mentally.
I don't know if that soothes anything. Not sure that is the point, either. I am not sure I can do such things. But the hope is that understandings, at a bit of a level so as to function, can be... expressed.
The girls are good. They were quite happy to see poppa. All I had for them was a bit of vocal greeting, some petting and scratching, and easily not being grumpy at their clamoring. My little ladies, for their part, were quite happy to see me. They weren't quite sure. Sam, the bold and friendly, had to look me over, listen for a bit, sniff around, and even then she approached with caution. Well, she probably knew right away. Like any woman, cat or know, feeling abandoned, she may have simply held a bit of reserve. Short lived, but she let me know I was bad?
Today? I got the bike off, right away, thinking that would allow me to back into the garage. Not so much. Oh, no, the bike came off with no fuss. But the stuff on top has to come out of the carrier, then the carrier has to be removed before the Xt'er will fit the space. That would be my first move, should I move in that direction yet today. I do not know if that will happen. I honestly need a little time to adjust, to get back on medication, and to... figure out my life back and here in the cave. Aye, and I need a bit of rest. Have no doubt that I spent every penny of my accumulated life energy, and then some, in this endeavor. If you find another man who has the potential to be on the heart transplant list who can do these things I should very much like to meet him. A woman? More so, if she did this solo, not if she was dragged along or pampered. I do need... rest... coolness... sitting... something. The burn needs to be excised, though I may just push when most of my reset conditions are met and let that tend to itself over time.
No, I will try to push through with unloading the carrier today. I will then work on restoring order to my castle, in an ongoing set of small task groups, resting much, over the next few days. By Monday I hope to be in condition, along with the cave, to begin processing the load in the X. I did bother with the cooler already, not wanting things to go bad and smell bad. Yes, a plan. A true plan? I won't know until it is time. Hmm, a song... yes... a tune that was on my mind while in the heat and dust and sun. Later.
Home.
.
.
I rolled in a bit before 1:30, even remembering to check my mail before ending the day. I woke at about 6:00 this morning. Shaving, showering, dressing, then off to breakfast. I was at 65 mph, leaving Flagstaff, before 7:30. I did stop at the proposed camp site, near the Grand Canyon National Park. It is open, easy enough to access even with an RV, assuming it hasn't rained to recently or heavily. That ate about three and a half to four hours. As well, I did not see the exit to Utah 9. By the time I realized my mistake I was low enough on gas that turning around, since there had been no gas stations for some very long time, was not possible. I ended up taking I-70 East over to Utah 6, then up to I-15 that way. Between those two things, a ten hour drive... was extended.
Tired to be sure. It wasn't just the drive. Of course.
Burning Man.
I survived. Actually, finding if I could was, for me, three quarters of the reason for going. Well, and to find out if I could survive if I could enjoy myself, at least a bit, in the interim. As it turned out I enjoyed myself quite a bit. It was easy to socialize, among other things. I had thought myself both able, and amenable to civil affairs. But with no real practice in... ages... I could not swear to it. For my part, I enjoyed that. When it wasn't too hot or I wasn't too tired. I would say that between those things, a third of the rest of the time was open for discussions and involvements. Ah, the other thing. Yes, I was able to stay celibate. Never to worry, I had... several opportunities. I was so focused on maintaining my convictions, however, that I passed on some potentially promising contacts. There were several decently attired, attractive, younger women who showed interest. I don't know if they might have fit the profile I have compiled, having not explored, let alone whether their interest was merely academic or if it was... actionable. However, from a number of things, I believe there is potential to find a woman even at such a place.
Oh, well, I enjoyed the interactions. I cannot say others, including my camping partner, did. I have discussed the possibility that I am immature, in a way. From a number of factors in my life to simply not being out in the world I have not been... potty-social trained. I say what I will. Then again, I do not think I would change that. While my friend was certainly more... diplomatic... he missed opportunities and had to be elusive, in my opinion. As well... that is so... delta? gamma? Something. I think he hates me, sort of, now. Though it might have been from advising him but holding a specific piece of my suspicions back, something he might have wanted to capitalize upon. Which *shoot me* is precisely why I withheld it. Can't be sure, suspect. I hope a few days, weeks, or even months from now, he will be over it. He has bigger worries though so I understand if he is too busy.
While I would like to go back, I am pretty sure I cannot do it alone. I am not sure he wishes to go again, with me. Further, he may not be able to go again. Complications. Time will tell.
Being rigged for minor camping though, I may begin to explore this area, for now. I survived, with help. Time to see if I can survive on my own. I won't be as fast setting up. I may or may not be all that active around camp. Though with higher elevations on my side, perhaps it will be cool enough to do even more, in the way of hiking, fishing, or... whatever else is available. Yet this year? I just don't know. I need a day, or two, or week, to decompress, clean, sort, and store my goods, gear, and self.
I will try to get the pictures and that story up soon. I told you, I write what I think. I may also have suggested I say just the same. No secrets, if perhaps some hurt feelings? That isn't the intent. I'll write a bit more tomorrow.
Good night.
.
I rolled in a bit before 1:30, even remembering to check my mail before ending the day. I woke at about 6:00 this morning. Shaving, showering, dressing, then off to breakfast. I was at 65 mph, leaving Flagstaff, before 7:30. I did stop at the proposed camp site, near the Grand Canyon National Park. It is open, easy enough to access even with an RV, assuming it hasn't rained to recently or heavily. That ate about three and a half to four hours. As well, I did not see the exit to Utah 9. By the time I realized my mistake I was low enough on gas that turning around, since there had been no gas stations for some very long time, was not possible. I ended up taking I-70 East over to Utah 6, then up to I-15 that way. Between those two things, a ten hour drive... was extended.
Tired to be sure. It wasn't just the drive. Of course.
Burning Man.
I survived. Actually, finding if I could was, for me, three quarters of the reason for going. Well, and to find out if I could survive if I could enjoy myself, at least a bit, in the interim. As it turned out I enjoyed myself quite a bit. It was easy to socialize, among other things. I had thought myself both able, and amenable to civil affairs. But with no real practice in... ages... I could not swear to it. For my part, I enjoyed that. When it wasn't too hot or I wasn't too tired. I would say that between those things, a third of the rest of the time was open for discussions and involvements. Ah, the other thing. Yes, I was able to stay celibate. Never to worry, I had... several opportunities. I was so focused on maintaining my convictions, however, that I passed on some potentially promising contacts. There were several decently attired, attractive, younger women who showed interest. I don't know if they might have fit the profile I have compiled, having not explored, let alone whether their interest was merely academic or if it was... actionable. However, from a number of things, I believe there is potential to find a woman even at such a place.
Oh, well, I enjoyed the interactions. I cannot say others, including my camping partner, did. I have discussed the possibility that I am immature, in a way. From a number of factors in my life to simply not being out in the world I have not been... potty-social trained. I say what I will. Then again, I do not think I would change that. While my friend was certainly more... diplomatic... he missed opportunities and had to be elusive, in my opinion. As well... that is so... delta? gamma? Something. I think he hates me, sort of, now. Though it might have been from advising him but holding a specific piece of my suspicions back, something he might have wanted to capitalize upon. Which *shoot me* is precisely why I withheld it. Can't be sure, suspect. I hope a few days, weeks, or even months from now, he will be over it. He has bigger worries though so I understand if he is too busy.
While I would like to go back, I am pretty sure I cannot do it alone. I am not sure he wishes to go again, with me. Further, he may not be able to go again. Complications. Time will tell.
Being rigged for minor camping though, I may begin to explore this area, for now. I survived, with help. Time to see if I can survive on my own. I won't be as fast setting up. I may or may not be all that active around camp. Though with higher elevations on my side, perhaps it will be cool enough to do even more, in the way of hiking, fishing, or... whatever else is available. Yet this year? I just don't know. I need a day, or two, or week, to decompress, clean, sort, and store my goods, gear, and self.
I will try to get the pictures and that story up soon. I told you, I write what I think. I may also have suggested I say just the same. No secrets, if perhaps some hurt feelings? That isn't the intent. I'll write a bit more tomorrow.
Good night.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Almost there.
.
.
In Fallon, Nevada, about a three hour drive from BMan. A stop at D.C.'s, then a stop between there and here. A night of sleep and out the door at about 3:00 should get us in in time to set up before the heat of the day. It is only 88 outside, here anyway. That seems to be the temp at BRC, where we are going, from what I have seen. Little things had been forgotten. And big things. Water has been tended, though it was better that we took care of that here rather than on the way. The weight of things was more than what was suspected and we are... at the vehicle and trailer capacity, nearly, before adding potable water. We did that just here at this stop. We also bought several chairs and he had a table or two.
The long days have finally gotten to me. But we have arrived early enough to sleep long and well. We will need it.
The overhead shade structure weighs 250 itself. Putting it up immediately is the priority. Then the tents. I figure if we work together, go slow enough, and drink water, we should be fine. Probably an early one tomorrow then on to... figuring out what this is all about. This may be my last post? until I am home, or on the way home.
Be well.
.
In Fallon, Nevada, about a three hour drive from BMan. A stop at D.C.'s, then a stop between there and here. A night of sleep and out the door at about 3:00 should get us in in time to set up before the heat of the day. It is only 88 outside, here anyway. That seems to be the temp at BRC, where we are going, from what I have seen. Little things had been forgotten. And big things. Water has been tended, though it was better that we took care of that here rather than on the way. The weight of things was more than what was suspected and we are... at the vehicle and trailer capacity, nearly, before adding potable water. We did that just here at this stop. We also bought several chairs and he had a table or two.
The long days have finally gotten to me. But we have arrived early enough to sleep long and well. We will need it.
The overhead shade structure weighs 250 itself. Putting it up immediately is the priority. Then the tents. I figure if we work together, go slow enough, and drink water, we should be fine. Probably an early one tomorrow then on to... figuring out what this is all about. This may be my last post? until I am home, or on the way home.
Be well.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Yeah, well, almost.
.
.
It just, well, takes longer. Always. As well, between being a poor packer and taking too much, I am left with a harsh choice. Miss my hotel or... skip the water jugs. No other choices as I would have to completely repack. Not going to happen. I will just have to hope we can get jugs on the way, and fill them with potable. After getting most everything in, I had to take a break. But rather than wasting it, this time, I decided to begin writing out the driving instructions... Printer was ooc last I checked, if that was back when the machine was totally corrupted. I haven't tried it since, but had little time and money to fuss with it in any case, so... *scribble* I took over an hour to write it out. I redid a page or two because I couldn't read them. Ugh. Got in a hurry.
Boots, tp, table and chairs, what I can get in, then... I hit the road. Ugh...
.
It just, well, takes longer. Always. As well, between being a poor packer and taking too much, I am left with a harsh choice. Miss my hotel or... skip the water jugs. No other choices as I would have to completely repack. Not going to happen. I will just have to hope we can get jugs on the way, and fill them with potable. After getting most everything in, I had to take a break. But rather than wasting it, this time, I decided to begin writing out the driving instructions... Printer was ooc last I checked, if that was back when the machine was totally corrupted. I haven't tried it since, but had little time and money to fuss with it in any case, so... *scribble* I took over an hour to write it out. I redid a page or two because I couldn't read them. Ugh. Got in a hurry.
Boots, tp, table and chairs, what I can get in, then... I hit the road. Ugh...
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Ugh!
.
.
I honestly thought I had it all whipped. Just put everything in, right? Well, in theory. The problem with theory, immediately, is the grill. I thought taking it apart, from what I remembered about putting it together, would be a snap. Well, for two people, perhaps. But solo it was a bear. I think it still works, it just has a little cosmetic damage. I spared it a hard hit but couldn't keep it from hitting altogether. Physics cannot be undone, at some angles no amount of strength can arrest an event once it is in motion.
I don't even have the water in and I am out of space. I will simply have to put some of the stuff up on the roof, lighter bulkier things. Ugh! The good thing about and Xterra is that the cargo bay is extremely accessible. There is nothing you can't reach from either door and the back, so you really do have three points of access, for whichever is convenient or works with what you are trying to move. Wrestling the grill into the cabin, solo, was also a treat. More treats like that and I'll get a bloody hernia! It wasn't the weight, it was trying to be gentle with that weight AND the environment with maybe an eighth of an inch clearance. No, I didn't even come close to herniating, just... the idea seemed appropriate.
I still have a few more things to pack, but 80% to 90% of it is in, 75% of what needs to be packed is packed, or more really. Remember, some 1/3rd of what I am taking doesn't need packing, and much of what needed packing is in. Just... didn't want you to go all gerbil on me. *squeak, squeak* I've got to take a break though. Not wearing down, and when it is in I am going, it's just I can only handle just so much exertion at a time. I'm old and lame. The nice thing about this is, much of it will not be coming back. Food, water, and other consumables. After we find a place to unload trash, and recycle if someone insists, and even before, we will be light as a feather just from water usage, and comparably. Even just half of the water gone will be big. What food I don't use will, hopefully, be gifted. The only food I will bring back otherwise are any remaining MREs. The heat will have killed their shelf life, but I can use them here at home for the first week or so, if need be, to get back on my feet more easily.
Ugh! I am pushing but... I think I am doing fine. So far. Yeah, a break and then back to it. The roof pack will go on, lighter but bulky will go in that, then the water will go in. That should leave enough room for everything and rather comfortably... I hope. I couldn't do this often. There just... isn't that much of me to split out. And, honestly? I am... surprised I made it. I simply am. Even if I was sure I could. Oh, that check list is finally coming in handy. Extra key and fob, for example, but other things both not yet packed and already in. Yeah, okay, the list was worth scribbling out. Yes, mother, medicines are in and I have them where I know they are and can be taken into the hotel with me. Hmm, gotta get the insulin in, yet, though. Ugh!
Later. Much later. See you in a week or two.
.
I honestly thought I had it all whipped. Just put everything in, right? Well, in theory. The problem with theory, immediately, is the grill. I thought taking it apart, from what I remembered about putting it together, would be a snap. Well, for two people, perhaps. But solo it was a bear. I think it still works, it just has a little cosmetic damage. I spared it a hard hit but couldn't keep it from hitting altogether. Physics cannot be undone, at some angles no amount of strength can arrest an event once it is in motion.
I don't even have the water in and I am out of space. I will simply have to put some of the stuff up on the roof, lighter bulkier things. Ugh! The good thing about and Xterra is that the cargo bay is extremely accessible. There is nothing you can't reach from either door and the back, so you really do have three points of access, for whichever is convenient or works with what you are trying to move. Wrestling the grill into the cabin, solo, was also a treat. More treats like that and I'll get a bloody hernia! It wasn't the weight, it was trying to be gentle with that weight AND the environment with maybe an eighth of an inch clearance. No, I didn't even come close to herniating, just... the idea seemed appropriate.
I still have a few more things to pack, but 80% to 90% of it is in, 75% of what needs to be packed is packed, or more really. Remember, some 1/3rd of what I am taking doesn't need packing, and much of what needed packing is in. Just... didn't want you to go all gerbil on me. *squeak, squeak* I've got to take a break though. Not wearing down, and when it is in I am going, it's just I can only handle just so much exertion at a time. I'm old and lame. The nice thing about this is, much of it will not be coming back. Food, water, and other consumables. After we find a place to unload trash, and recycle if someone insists, and even before, we will be light as a feather just from water usage, and comparably. Even just half of the water gone will be big. What food I don't use will, hopefully, be gifted. The only food I will bring back otherwise are any remaining MREs. The heat will have killed their shelf life, but I can use them here at home for the first week or so, if need be, to get back on my feet more easily.
Ugh! I am pushing but... I think I am doing fine. So far. Yeah, a break and then back to it. The roof pack will go on, lighter but bulky will go in that, then the water will go in. That should leave enough room for everything and rather comfortably... I hope. I couldn't do this often. There just... isn't that much of me to split out. And, honestly? I am... surprised I made it. I simply am. Even if I was sure I could. Oh, that check list is finally coming in handy. Extra key and fob, for example, but other things both not yet packed and already in. Yeah, okay, the list was worth scribbling out. Yes, mother, medicines are in and I have them where I know they are and can be taken into the hotel with me. Hmm, gotta get the insulin in, yet, though. Ugh!
Later. Much later. See you in a week or two.
Well, that was quick as a slug on a five foot stick!
.
.
Cardboard, I thought. That will be easy. And, really, effort wise, it was. The thing is I need to cut it to size. And, that was a little tricky. I am hoping one layer is enough, as well. Hmm, nothing on the bottom but food but that works too. I did make a top for it though, cardboard top. It took about an hour of fiddling... I was thinking more along the lines of five to ten minutes. And, no, I wasn't super particular nor particularly slow. It just takes time.
Into town. Forgot batteries, dang it! I have some but... They will simply have to do or I will go without. If I or we stop somewhere for something in the travels I may pick some up. I stopped for a late lunch first, didn't want the ice and dry ice in the heat of the day and vehicle while I ate. Hotter there than here by far. I had no idea what to expect. They do sell dry ice, but the girl at the register goes and gets it. As I said, I put the meats in the bottom (almost forgot bacon, but two slabs are in there now. I didn't layer it with the meat, at all... Not being at the register with jackwagons pushing up behind. Open registers on either side, one or two items each, and open self check lanes, but they decide my lane is better. Asswagons. Never the who.
Oh, yeah, I did stop at the post office. The ice bandana was in! Excellent. I am glad I went ahead and froze the extra packs for it, even believing they wouldn't make it. Oh, and boy do I have a surprise for D.C. It arrived today. No! Wait! Until BMan, and a little into it. No peaking, no hints. I am just hoping you like it! Gosh, now I am getting lots of nice toys. I guess you just have to live long enough?
I had this... odd moment... while waiting in line. In a bit of a sour mood, hot, bothered, and pressed as I was. A woman, quite elderly, was two people ahead. She was writing a check, the old way, and taking her time. I had the faintest notion that some of it was staged. It was her time, and it brought attention. Initially I was perturbed. I kept it inside, I've been too grumpy lately so I have been working at *calm*. And it worked. While I was doing that I... looked at her more closely. Wrinkles, she had. No, not just age, but great, perhaps amazing age. Those wrinkles softened my heart somehow, and I became undone. What I had mentioned about the dream, having a miracle before one's eyes and being unhappy by wanting more. Yes. That opened my eyes to those around me, other women and girls. I couldn't see their lives, as is sometimes the case, or their thoughts, but I could see the reason for their being, I could see somethings else. Words wouldn't quite explain it but I lived for a moment as I haven't in ages. Just a moment, like when a someone who stutters sings without stuttering. A trick, perhaps. Can't explain it fully. But I certainly enjoyed it, and needed it. After my expression changed, the woman ahead of me offered to let me go. She had many items, I only had a few. I suggested I needed dry ice as well, which is complicated, so declined her offer, but with many thanks for the notion.
Oh, an hour to chill a bit. I did pack the tent and sleeping gear out, got the shower down and stowed. I have a bit more packing and a lot of loading. Ugh! I did find three rugs to take along, one small, one more of a runner, and one a bit bigger but shabby on one edge. It's what I can do. Gosh, I hope I don't forget too much. Woot! Today is the day!
.
Cardboard, I thought. That will be easy. And, really, effort wise, it was. The thing is I need to cut it to size. And, that was a little tricky. I am hoping one layer is enough, as well. Hmm, nothing on the bottom but food but that works too. I did make a top for it though, cardboard top. It took about an hour of fiddling... I was thinking more along the lines of five to ten minutes. And, no, I wasn't super particular nor particularly slow. It just takes time.
Into town. Forgot batteries, dang it! I have some but... They will simply have to do or I will go without. If I or we stop somewhere for something in the travels I may pick some up. I stopped for a late lunch first, didn't want the ice and dry ice in the heat of the day and vehicle while I ate. Hotter there than here by far. I had no idea what to expect. They do sell dry ice, but the girl at the register goes and gets it. As I said, I put the meats in the bottom (almost forgot bacon, but two slabs are in there now. I didn't layer it with the meat, at all... Not being at the register with jackwagons pushing up behind. Open registers on either side, one or two items each, and open self check lanes, but they decide my lane is better. Asswagons. Never the who.
Oh, yeah, I did stop at the post office. The ice bandana was in! Excellent. I am glad I went ahead and froze the extra packs for it, even believing they wouldn't make it. Oh, and boy do I have a surprise for D.C. It arrived today. No! Wait! Until BMan, and a little into it. No peaking, no hints. I am just hoping you like it! Gosh, now I am getting lots of nice toys. I guess you just have to live long enough?
I had this... odd moment... while waiting in line. In a bit of a sour mood, hot, bothered, and pressed as I was. A woman, quite elderly, was two people ahead. She was writing a check, the old way, and taking her time. I had the faintest notion that some of it was staged. It was her time, and it brought attention. Initially I was perturbed. I kept it inside, I've been too grumpy lately so I have been working at *calm*. And it worked. While I was doing that I... looked at her more closely. Wrinkles, she had. No, not just age, but great, perhaps amazing age. Those wrinkles softened my heart somehow, and I became undone. What I had mentioned about the dream, having a miracle before one's eyes and being unhappy by wanting more. Yes. That opened my eyes to those around me, other women and girls. I couldn't see their lives, as is sometimes the case, or their thoughts, but I could see the reason for their being, I could see somethings else. Words wouldn't quite explain it but I lived for a moment as I haven't in ages. Just a moment, like when a someone who stutters sings without stuttering. A trick, perhaps. Can't explain it fully. But I certainly enjoyed it, and needed it. After my expression changed, the woman ahead of me offered to let me go. She had many items, I only had a few. I suggested I needed dry ice as well, which is complicated, so declined her offer, but with many thanks for the notion.
Oh, an hour to chill a bit. I did pack the tent and sleeping gear out, got the shower down and stowed. I have a bit more packing and a lot of loading. Ugh! I did find three rugs to take along, one small, one more of a runner, and one a bit bigger but shabby on one edge. It's what I can do. Gosh, I hope I don't forget too much. Woot! Today is the day!
I love waking before the alarm.
.
.
Much to do. I have to go to town for dry ice. I am glad not to be packed for this reason alone. Batteries and some butter are also on the list. Instead of buying paper for grill fodder and dry ice sublimation packing I will be taking four or five rolls of paper towels. Lunch in town I do believe. When I get back it is all about packing. I still have to take the shower down and take the grill legs off. Then... everything goes in. Boxes are more convenient for many things. Odd sizes, bulky but light to small but heavy to large and either of those, and it all has to go in somehow. I've done as well as I can, now I just have to settle for what I have, go with it, and figure how to stow it.
A quick shower, then to check the mail in case what has arrived needs a signature, then on to town. Only one package here, so far? To the ends of buying dry ice I put that particular ice chest in the freezer, with a bag of ice in it, last night before I went to bed. I will take the extra cooler, to accept the ice, in the parking lot. I think I am going to put my food right in before I go to town as well, so I can stack it as I want it in the store. Hmm, with the food in, I might not need the ice? Yeah, I'll keep the ice. Decisions, decisions, even know. Dithering but quickly final. I am simply going with cardboard to protect the sides and bottom of the cooler. It is supposed to work well enough(?) and I have that in large quantities plus I have no time to be tinkering in stores looking for "better?" protection. *tick-tock tick-tock*
It is hotter in BRC today by a degree, but cooler here at night by 8 degrees. Still, 88 isn't all that bad there.
Oh... once packed, if I am not feeling all that tired? I may just head out later tonight. I might be able to take a nap on the road during the night if need be. Personally I just fear that the drive will be a lot longer than what the drive time suggests. I really couldn't add in the alternate route, so that may slow me down. Hopefully, being high summer, there will be fewer visitors to the desert demesne of the great crack. I count, and can count, on nothing... without the experience of personal knowledge and only a menial or more tumultuous romance with luck.
You know, I was thinking, because of one of the poems... A mother is sort of on the spot with children, boy children especially, as we mature. To be honest, no matter what mothers think, we stop being able to hear mothers... variably but as by as young as our early teens, as in my case. All I could get from my mother was her emotions. I had two mothers in those time frames, and it was the same with both. Her words no longer make sense. And really? Those are sort of lost years, at least for me. The impulse to find a female, seeing mother as an impediment and... censor to that... well, and knowing she is female but not the one. Ugly, odd, mixed, troubling, the knot of becoming a man binds our ears and lets loose the wild stallion that allows us the strength and fearless recklessness to leave the nest. Thankfully, in spite of lots of other problems, I always understood that I was loved. Not always liked, if usually that as well. I suppose each boy, though, goes through things differently. Having a father as a solid, and opposite, pole though, I think, helps a bit. I didn't always have that. It worked out fine, give or take, though.
An oddity. I brought my ipod shuffle in to check the charge before heading out. Well, and I knew where it was, but in the hustle and bustle of the last two days, knowing was not enough. It ended up... going through the washer. And then it went through the dryer. Toast, had to be. Still... I'm... always curious. So, since it was dry after the dryer, but more surely this morning, I decided to plug it in. Now, Apple wanted to update and then got stuck. I had to turn my computer off to unstick it. When I plugged in the ipod, though it didn't show, the little tiny light in it was on. Some room for hope, but that might be a separate circuit, and powered by the connection. After restarting the machine and going through everything, it looks like Apple had updated, just got stuck before actually telling me so and shutting that op down. I reconnect it all, and... The ipod doesn't show. Apple is slow about showing, and doesn't always pop well anyway. So, I start the diagnostic and before it is done... Pop! I still have my ipod. Yum! An idiot but a yummy idiot? :) Oh, and... it was fully charged! I have used it for the last three days to week, off and on. Hmm, now I know how to recharge it without all the hassle? *grins*
Oh my word! It is actually here, about to finish the packing, and... really? About to head out? When did this all happen? It seems like about two weeks ago I was sitting here wondering how it would all happen and then... well... then I am here. Which means it will be over before I know it. Doh! Slow down, Doom... There is a lot to do before it starts and after it begins, and even it ends, before I get to pout.
I should simply enjoy the miracle this all means. I had a dream I was speaking to someone who thought I should look more muscular. I suggested that I hand them the miracle of me still being alive and even that isn't good enough for them? So it is with all that is happening, no matter how fast it may or may not fly by. Even if it isn't as billed, and is more like the sea horses than the little family of critters and builds underwater houses? :p Oh, I don't fall for things these days. If it is there it is there if it is not it is not, this is just a shark biting something that looks interesting. It's the second or third bite that could be telling.
Oh, right. Later.
.
Much to do. I have to go to town for dry ice. I am glad not to be packed for this reason alone. Batteries and some butter are also on the list. Instead of buying paper for grill fodder and dry ice sublimation packing I will be taking four or five rolls of paper towels. Lunch in town I do believe. When I get back it is all about packing. I still have to take the shower down and take the grill legs off. Then... everything goes in. Boxes are more convenient for many things. Odd sizes, bulky but light to small but heavy to large and either of those, and it all has to go in somehow. I've done as well as I can, now I just have to settle for what I have, go with it, and figure how to stow it.
A quick shower, then to check the mail in case what has arrived needs a signature, then on to town. Only one package here, so far? To the ends of buying dry ice I put that particular ice chest in the freezer, with a bag of ice in it, last night before I went to bed. I will take the extra cooler, to accept the ice, in the parking lot. I think I am going to put my food right in before I go to town as well, so I can stack it as I want it in the store. Hmm, with the food in, I might not need the ice? Yeah, I'll keep the ice. Decisions, decisions, even know. Dithering but quickly final. I am simply going with cardboard to protect the sides and bottom of the cooler. It is supposed to work well enough(?) and I have that in large quantities plus I have no time to be tinkering in stores looking for "better?" protection. *tick-tock tick-tock*
It is hotter in BRC today by a degree, but cooler here at night by 8 degrees. Still, 88 isn't all that bad there.
Oh... once packed, if I am not feeling all that tired? I may just head out later tonight. I might be able to take a nap on the road during the night if need be. Personally I just fear that the drive will be a lot longer than what the drive time suggests. I really couldn't add in the alternate route, so that may slow me down. Hopefully, being high summer, there will be fewer visitors to the desert demesne of the great crack. I count, and can count, on nothing... without the experience of personal knowledge and only a menial or more tumultuous romance with luck.
You know, I was thinking, because of one of the poems... A mother is sort of on the spot with children, boy children especially, as we mature. To be honest, no matter what mothers think, we stop being able to hear mothers... variably but as by as young as our early teens, as in my case. All I could get from my mother was her emotions. I had two mothers in those time frames, and it was the same with both. Her words no longer make sense. And really? Those are sort of lost years, at least for me. The impulse to find a female, seeing mother as an impediment and... censor to that... well, and knowing she is female but not the one. Ugly, odd, mixed, troubling, the knot of becoming a man binds our ears and lets loose the wild stallion that allows us the strength and fearless recklessness to leave the nest. Thankfully, in spite of lots of other problems, I always understood that I was loved. Not always liked, if usually that as well. I suppose each boy, though, goes through things differently. Having a father as a solid, and opposite, pole though, I think, helps a bit. I didn't always have that. It worked out fine, give or take, though.
An oddity. I brought my ipod shuffle in to check the charge before heading out. Well, and I knew where it was, but in the hustle and bustle of the last two days, knowing was not enough. It ended up... going through the washer. And then it went through the dryer. Toast, had to be. Still... I'm... always curious. So, since it was dry after the dryer, but more surely this morning, I decided to plug it in. Now, Apple wanted to update and then got stuck. I had to turn my computer off to unstick it. When I plugged in the ipod, though it didn't show, the little tiny light in it was on. Some room for hope, but that might be a separate circuit, and powered by the connection. After restarting the machine and going through everything, it looks like Apple had updated, just got stuck before actually telling me so and shutting that op down. I reconnect it all, and... The ipod doesn't show. Apple is slow about showing, and doesn't always pop well anyway. So, I start the diagnostic and before it is done... Pop! I still have my ipod. Yum! An idiot but a yummy idiot? :) Oh, and... it was fully charged! I have used it for the last three days to week, off and on. Hmm, now I know how to recharge it without all the hassle? *grins*
Oh my word! It is actually here, about to finish the packing, and... really? About to head out? When did this all happen? It seems like about two weeks ago I was sitting here wondering how it would all happen and then... well... then I am here. Which means it will be over before I know it. Doh! Slow down, Doom... There is a lot to do before it starts and after it begins, and even it ends, before I get to pout.
I should simply enjoy the miracle this all means. I had a dream I was speaking to someone who thought I should look more muscular. I suggested that I hand them the miracle of me still being alive and even that isn't good enough for them? So it is with all that is happening, no matter how fast it may or may not fly by. Even if it isn't as billed, and is more like the sea horses than the little family of critters and builds underwater houses? :p Oh, I don't fall for things these days. If it is there it is there if it is not it is not, this is just a shark biting something that looks interesting. It's the second or third bite that could be telling.
Oh, right. Later.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Huh? Oh, right. Gahhhhhhh!
.
.
A checklist was created, if it only has a portion of what I am taking and not in great detail at that. Shoes and boots have been rounded up. The cot is down and bagged, the pad is rolled, the sleeping bag is about to be put away, and the rainfly is down with the rest of the tent soon to follow. Main camp clothes are bagged and ready. The day pack is ready. Most of my gear, tools, and other kit is "right there". I just saw something yesterday that I am looking for to put in the day pack, as an extra. I have two of them in there somewhere. But... Gahhhhhh!
I am cooking a few bergers tonight, not much more. It will do. I am glad I decided to use the grill. It needs cleaned, cooking on it will allow me to burn some of that off, making it easier to clean. I have a lot to do, but at least I have a list and containers and bags and ideas. Ugh... Still, it's sort of fun. Hmm, dinner might be ready. Later!
---------
Just a little break after supper. The burgers were great. A little catchup, a little mustard, and a fork. I'm so easy sometimes. Too busy for much else. An hour, then I have to get to it. Ugh! Yum-ugh?
---------
The tent went down pretty easily. Unfortunately I forgot about the sleeping bag and other bags inside. No real problem. The tasks just weren't as clean as I had planned. I forgot to empty the shower bladder the other day. The second one goes untested. I drained that but left the shower up. I'll get it tomorrow. Hopefully the bladder will be dry enough tomorrow evening to put up. Or not, either way it goes. As for exercise, stuffing the tent into it's bag is about equivalent to a minor workout. Getting the sleeping bag in is about equal to straight weights. Done, done, done, and done.
With my list in hand, I believe I will begin cataloging. Just checking that I have everything on the list plus those extras I will be taking. As for the clothes? I am not sure they will really fit in the backpack. They just may be put in on their own. Since I had, sort of, forgotten about the table and chairs, I may end up needing the roof rack pack after all. I don't exactly know quite yet. Figuring out how to store everything and try to keep trim, plus hold everything in place... I am glad I got that cargo net. Some use it over the rack pack, but I think I have hooks and such inside that will allow me to place it over the goods, or some of them. Should be interesting. I am keeping the front passenger side up and usable, if I plan more to keep my travel and essential goods in there. This is the first time I have packed for an expedition without lots of help, lists, and all the gear I would need either in my kit or handed to me on the way out.
Hmm... lots of work. I'm sort of beat but I can't quit yet tonight. I best take a break though. As I said, pacing. If all else fails I can probably just shove everything in and drive, and hope. That is tempting. But part of the fun, both literally and sarcastically, is trying to beat the game by being ahead of it. So... I'll keep struggling along. At least I know, worst case scenario, I could just cut and run and be in pretty darn good shape. Pesky little details....
I should also note... a year ago, or two when I was at my last true prime, I could not have done this. This, level of involvement? This is new. This is still subpar, but better than I have known for over two decades. It's beating the dog snot out of me but I am able to get back up, when I can if usually right away, and get back to it, and quickly. No weeks of outages, a few days leading up, a few weeks a month ago. What is also different is I was pretty sure I could do it. Sure enough to have someone else depend on me for transportation and help. That is absolutely new to me. Eureka, seriously, it's just dawning on me how... well I am doing.
Never mind all that, I have things to do. An hour break and then to the last bits of clothes, some organizing and list checking, a bit more packing, and contemplation of how it is all going to fit. Yes, I will try to work until about 4:00. I still have to go to town tomorrow afternoon as well. Topping off the tank... hmm, no, I did that yesterday... But dry ice, and maybe some more batteries, just in case. A few D, C, AA, AAA, and a half dozen of two types of button batteries. Just in case the solar chargers are far too slow or aren't effective enough. That will be that.
---------
Fifteen minutes and the laundry will go in the dryer. I will probably mess with the last set of dishes then as well. I have much of my kit together, and two thirds(?) of it packed. Organization? I'm doing my best. The two packs of camp clothes did go into the big pack. I am sort of creating two day packs, one for day, one for night. Some things will have to be switched when I arrive and by use. Some things I considered taking are not making the cut. For some things I am simply going with boxes. I saved several other boxes but I think my eyes were too big. Perhaps for lighter stuff, but that depends on what is left! As to the lists? Well... I will just have to hope. Taking much more than is recommended means the list became more of a headache then help. I have everything on the list, though I need to remember vinegar and a spray bottle for it and water... helps with the sand. Hmm, and best bring my lotion.
I don't know. I am sure I am well on track. I had hoped to have this done by Tuesday. Oh well.
Beside batteries and dry ice, I want to get some butter. Real butter just can't be beat, for cooking or just slathering on things. Sour cream as well, for potatoes, but I have some. Ugh... And I hope I remember a placket of bacon, maybe two. It's thin, so... So very many details. No one else to check, double check. Of course that also means I don't have anyone getting under foot or getting tired and wanting to quit, potentially dragging me down. It's a mixed bag that way. Well, not bad though. I won't complain. I did find one of the two things I was looking for, but one of those items remains hidden. It was my favored one. Bleh. It might still show up but the odds are that it was packed or has been put in the "don't take" pile, or is simply under something that isn't going. I'll know when I get there, most likely.
I think I am just going to goof until the laundry and dishes are up. Good night otherwise.
.
A checklist was created, if it only has a portion of what I am taking and not in great detail at that. Shoes and boots have been rounded up. The cot is down and bagged, the pad is rolled, the sleeping bag is about to be put away, and the rainfly is down with the rest of the tent soon to follow. Main camp clothes are bagged and ready. The day pack is ready. Most of my gear, tools, and other kit is "right there". I just saw something yesterday that I am looking for to put in the day pack, as an extra. I have two of them in there somewhere. But... Gahhhhhh!
I am cooking a few bergers tonight, not much more. It will do. I am glad I decided to use the grill. It needs cleaned, cooking on it will allow me to burn some of that off, making it easier to clean. I have a lot to do, but at least I have a list and containers and bags and ideas. Ugh... Still, it's sort of fun. Hmm, dinner might be ready. Later!
---------
Just a little break after supper. The burgers were great. A little catchup, a little mustard, and a fork. I'm so easy sometimes. Too busy for much else. An hour, then I have to get to it. Ugh! Yum-ugh?
---------
The tent went down pretty easily. Unfortunately I forgot about the sleeping bag and other bags inside. No real problem. The tasks just weren't as clean as I had planned. I forgot to empty the shower bladder the other day. The second one goes untested. I drained that but left the shower up. I'll get it tomorrow. Hopefully the bladder will be dry enough tomorrow evening to put up. Or not, either way it goes. As for exercise, stuffing the tent into it's bag is about equivalent to a minor workout. Getting the sleeping bag in is about equal to straight weights. Done, done, done, and done.
With my list in hand, I believe I will begin cataloging. Just checking that I have everything on the list plus those extras I will be taking. As for the clothes? I am not sure they will really fit in the backpack. They just may be put in on their own. Since I had, sort of, forgotten about the table and chairs, I may end up needing the roof rack pack after all. I don't exactly know quite yet. Figuring out how to store everything and try to keep trim, plus hold everything in place... I am glad I got that cargo net. Some use it over the rack pack, but I think I have hooks and such inside that will allow me to place it over the goods, or some of them. Should be interesting. I am keeping the front passenger side up and usable, if I plan more to keep my travel and essential goods in there. This is the first time I have packed for an expedition without lots of help, lists, and all the gear I would need either in my kit or handed to me on the way out.
Hmm... lots of work. I'm sort of beat but I can't quit yet tonight. I best take a break though. As I said, pacing. If all else fails I can probably just shove everything in and drive, and hope. That is tempting. But part of the fun, both literally and sarcastically, is trying to beat the game by being ahead of it. So... I'll keep struggling along. At least I know, worst case scenario, I could just cut and run and be in pretty darn good shape. Pesky little details....
I should also note... a year ago, or two when I was at my last true prime, I could not have done this. This, level of involvement? This is new. This is still subpar, but better than I have known for over two decades. It's beating the dog snot out of me but I am able to get back up, when I can if usually right away, and get back to it, and quickly. No weeks of outages, a few days leading up, a few weeks a month ago. What is also different is I was pretty sure I could do it. Sure enough to have someone else depend on me for transportation and help. That is absolutely new to me. Eureka, seriously, it's just dawning on me how... well I am doing.
Never mind all that, I have things to do. An hour break and then to the last bits of clothes, some organizing and list checking, a bit more packing, and contemplation of how it is all going to fit. Yes, I will try to work until about 4:00. I still have to go to town tomorrow afternoon as well. Topping off the tank... hmm, no, I did that yesterday... But dry ice, and maybe some more batteries, just in case. A few D, C, AA, AAA, and a half dozen of two types of button batteries. Just in case the solar chargers are far too slow or aren't effective enough. That will be that.
---------
Fifteen minutes and the laundry will go in the dryer. I will probably mess with the last set of dishes then as well. I have much of my kit together, and two thirds(?) of it packed. Organization? I'm doing my best. The two packs of camp clothes did go into the big pack. I am sort of creating two day packs, one for day, one for night. Some things will have to be switched when I arrive and by use. Some things I considered taking are not making the cut. For some things I am simply going with boxes. I saved several other boxes but I think my eyes were too big. Perhaps for lighter stuff, but that depends on what is left! As to the lists? Well... I will just have to hope. Taking much more than is recommended means the list became more of a headache then help. I have everything on the list, though I need to remember vinegar and a spray bottle for it and water... helps with the sand. Hmm, and best bring my lotion.
I don't know. I am sure I am well on track. I had hoped to have this done by Tuesday. Oh well.
Beside batteries and dry ice, I want to get some butter. Real butter just can't be beat, for cooking or just slathering on things. Sour cream as well, for potatoes, but I have some. Ugh... And I hope I remember a placket of bacon, maybe two. It's thin, so... So very many details. No one else to check, double check. Of course that also means I don't have anyone getting under foot or getting tired and wanting to quit, potentially dragging me down. It's a mixed bag that way. Well, not bad though. I won't complain. I did find one of the two things I was looking for, but one of those items remains hidden. It was my favored one. Bleh. It might still show up but the odds are that it was packed or has been put in the "don't take" pile, or is simply under something that isn't going. I'll know when I get there, most likely.
I think I am just going to goof until the laundry and dishes are up. Good night otherwise.
I had to take a little down time.
.
.
No, I'm still in the game. I didn't drop it all and go hide, or just shut down, or break. I just couldn't do more. Last night I did set up the Xt'er for hauling when I got home, but that was about it. I didn't get to bed until late, which is fine as my angle of approach for the long drive will... be better suited to a later schedule, and maybe the drive will reset my schedule back. Odd how those things work out. With bedtime being late, I didn't rise until noon or so. And I took the time during the heat of the day off, just to... chill. I did a few things, like tracked some packages, or tried. I also made a few arrangements. I keep calling my friends' sister, but she hasn't answered once. I am starting to think she is definitely avoiding me, whether she knows why I am calling or not. I... have a workaround in mind. I might get to that shortly, maybe before I go.
I am even working on some bills. I almost forgot to mess with my new mortgage! I got the bill but in the hubbub, well... it almost got lost. Rather than mess with automatic payments through companies, who seem just as likely to drop your payments to overcharge you, I go right through my bank. Further, I can set the payments up when I like, not when some company wants, or how their policy is arranged. I will have to tinker with it later as it is due on the 1st, but the 1st is a holiday. Even with the notion of having a week or two of grace period to pay, I prefer to be on time. Thankfully when the 1st falls on a holiday I get my check the business day before bank closures, so I set it to pay out on that day. That won't work most months. I will have to change the day and make sure the new day sticks. Ugh but tech can be stupid, irritating, and insist on remaining wrong. This month I am going with the reduced bill through the loan, because I don't have time to fuss with trying to talk to someone to make sure the overage goes against principle, and no they aren't fair, wise, or automatic that way. Most companies choose what they want, not what I want. Ugh! Oh, I might do one other thing with billing before I head out. Get that highly overpaid utility bill into automatic billing, that one will have to be through the company to make sure... never mind. I'll see if I can trust them, or I will just have to track the bill more closely, somehow. I will save that extra money, to be put against principle, along with the rest of the return minus teeth for my friend money that had been figured for a wheat grinder. Yeah... yeah, that is how it will work. So... much... thinking...
The vest arrived. Ugh, too small. I ordered one size larger than the shirts I wear. Yes, I looked at sizing. Too small. Oh well. Still, I will merely return it for the next size up. If it doesn't work this year, maybe next. The idea is sound and there is more than just BMan where it could be used. The garden, hiking, even shooting, perhaps even on those hot days in town, depending on how it performs and what you can wear over it. I'm just not a summer or heat guy. At least they did get it here on time, after the kerfuffle. No complaints on the fix, just on the initial effort. Fair enough and it happens.
Okay, so what work do I have to do today? Well, I have to look at the recommended lists, check things off as I can, figure out where things will go, what things to put together, and get going hard on that. In there I will be doing laundry for travel days, and stowing that, with medicine and personal care. I will finish the dishes, setting aside the coffee grinder and French press. I need to dissassemble the tent, take down and stow the shower, fill four of the six water jugs, and get tools and bike bits in arranged to go. Then I need to start filling the vehicle. Oh, best not forget some number of chairs, the table, and such. I really want to get the kilt done here, though I might save it and do it on the road. I will have a lot of time in the hotel rooms on the way, and can... arrange the furniture even if it is bolted down. Hmm, might be a good time to mess with the bike, too, since I will be bringing it into my room, at least the first night with it merely being strapped to the Xt'er. Ugh... Double ugh. Still, I am on schedule and doing fine, as far as I am concerned. It's just that there is a lot of work, finicky, detailed, yucky. On the good side, right, wrong, everything, or missing stuff, the deal will be done by tomorrow evening and that will be that no matter how well I do this. Yum!
Hmm, and something else. My phone had been acting up. The thing with emails, which I wrongly blamed on Gmail's new format... It turns out, as I was looking through my bills, that I am somehow $700 in arrears on my phone bill. Hmm? I auto pay well over the amount of the billing, so... I will be finding more about that when I get back. My phone was beginning to have all sorts of connection issues, and of the course email and internet were dead. Then, for no reason I can explain, they... have come back. My bill, for this month, says I owe $56 or something. My automatic payment is set to $180. I have no idea why I am "behind", but I WILL be finding out when I return. Just a bit... hot about that, actually.
Hey, yeah, I think I best get some things going. Later.
.
No, I'm still in the game. I didn't drop it all and go hide, or just shut down, or break. I just couldn't do more. Last night I did set up the Xt'er for hauling when I got home, but that was about it. I didn't get to bed until late, which is fine as my angle of approach for the long drive will... be better suited to a later schedule, and maybe the drive will reset my schedule back. Odd how those things work out. With bedtime being late, I didn't rise until noon or so. And I took the time during the heat of the day off, just to... chill. I did a few things, like tracked some packages, or tried. I also made a few arrangements. I keep calling my friends' sister, but she hasn't answered once. I am starting to think she is definitely avoiding me, whether she knows why I am calling or not. I... have a workaround in mind. I might get to that shortly, maybe before I go.
I am even working on some bills. I almost forgot to mess with my new mortgage! I got the bill but in the hubbub, well... it almost got lost. Rather than mess with automatic payments through companies, who seem just as likely to drop your payments to overcharge you, I go right through my bank. Further, I can set the payments up when I like, not when some company wants, or how their policy is arranged. I will have to tinker with it later as it is due on the 1st, but the 1st is a holiday. Even with the notion of having a week or two of grace period to pay, I prefer to be on time. Thankfully when the 1st falls on a holiday I get my check the business day before bank closures, so I set it to pay out on that day. That won't work most months. I will have to change the day and make sure the new day sticks. Ugh but tech can be stupid, irritating, and insist on remaining wrong. This month I am going with the reduced bill through the loan, because I don't have time to fuss with trying to talk to someone to make sure the overage goes against principle, and no they aren't fair, wise, or automatic that way. Most companies choose what they want, not what I want. Ugh! Oh, I might do one other thing with billing before I head out. Get that highly overpaid utility bill into automatic billing, that one will have to be through the company to make sure... never mind. I'll see if I can trust them, or I will just have to track the bill more closely, somehow. I will save that extra money, to be put against principle, along with the rest of the return minus teeth for my friend money that had been figured for a wheat grinder. Yeah... yeah, that is how it will work. So... much... thinking...
The vest arrived. Ugh, too small. I ordered one size larger than the shirts I wear. Yes, I looked at sizing. Too small. Oh well. Still, I will merely return it for the next size up. If it doesn't work this year, maybe next. The idea is sound and there is more than just BMan where it could be used. The garden, hiking, even shooting, perhaps even on those hot days in town, depending on how it performs and what you can wear over it. I'm just not a summer or heat guy. At least they did get it here on time, after the kerfuffle. No complaints on the fix, just on the initial effort. Fair enough and it happens.
Okay, so what work do I have to do today? Well, I have to look at the recommended lists, check things off as I can, figure out where things will go, what things to put together, and get going hard on that. In there I will be doing laundry for travel days, and stowing that, with medicine and personal care. I will finish the dishes, setting aside the coffee grinder and French press. I need to dissassemble the tent, take down and stow the shower, fill four of the six water jugs, and get tools and bike bits in arranged to go. Then I need to start filling the vehicle. Oh, best not forget some number of chairs, the table, and such. I really want to get the kilt done here, though I might save it and do it on the road. I will have a lot of time in the hotel rooms on the way, and can... arrange the furniture even if it is bolted down. Hmm, might be a good time to mess with the bike, too, since I will be bringing it into my room, at least the first night with it merely being strapped to the Xt'er. Ugh... Double ugh. Still, I am on schedule and doing fine, as far as I am concerned. It's just that there is a lot of work, finicky, detailed, yucky. On the good side, right, wrong, everything, or missing stuff, the deal will be done by tomorrow evening and that will be that no matter how well I do this. Yum!
Hmm, and something else. My phone had been acting up. The thing with emails, which I wrongly blamed on Gmail's new format... It turns out, as I was looking through my bills, that I am somehow $700 in arrears on my phone bill. Hmm? I auto pay well over the amount of the billing, so... I will be finding more about that when I get back. My phone was beginning to have all sorts of connection issues, and of the course email and internet were dead. Then, for no reason I can explain, they... have come back. My bill, for this month, says I owe $56 or something. My automatic payment is set to $180. I have no idea why I am "behind", but I WILL be finding out when I return. Just a bit... hot about that, actually.
Hey, yeah, I think I best get some things going. Later.
Haiku Monday - Quiet
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.
Grumpy Granny is up with this week's contest. The theme as noted, the rules are at her place. I am entering but not actually competing, as I will be gone. It is a fine theme. As usual, I have some darker takes on it, right away. To, though, I have a mild one. Go play, I love to see what folks do with their mind. And I love trying to wrap some of them around my tongue, mind, or both. Hie!
.
Grumpy Granny is up with this week's contest. The theme as noted, the rules are at her place. I am entering but not actually competing, as I will be gone. It is a fine theme. As usual, I have some darker takes on it, right away. To, though, I have a mild one. Go play, I love to see what folks do with their mind. And I love trying to wrap some of them around my tongue, mind, or both. Hie!
Whispered to No One
siliquous of dumb
no one told, no one knows, shut-
screams of discontent
no one told, no one knows, shut-
screams of discontent
--------------------------------
The Roar of the Ethereal
in my ears, nothing-
the world shakes, rattles, and grinds
I hear with spirit
the world shakes, rattles, and grinds
I hear with spirit
--------------------------------
Transcendental
nothing and no one
No touch, no smell, no sound ~ shh!
peace ascends thought
No touch, no smell, no sound ~ shh!
peace ascends thought
--------------------------------
A Moment?
simplicity of
soul ~ the cool touch of nothing
auditory nil
--------------------------------
A Cup of Shutthehellup
Solitude of sound
All I ask. Request denied.
Tweak soul through the eyes.
--------------------------------
Oh, eh?
.
.
Well, yes. Stolen shamelessly from AoSHQ, but... well, if I hadn't stolen it there I would have stolen it elsewhere. Yeah. Oh, just started chuckling after a couple of things I read. Hmm, I think I will steal something else that might have you shipping your pants, laughing and enjoying the whole process. And why stop with pants?
It seems the McDouble, pound for pound, is offering one of the best, least expensive, nutritionally sound, items people with mean means can obtain. I can see why those who wish for people to be peasants, and stuck on the government dole, don't like McDonalds though. You don't have to like it but, being true, you do have to lump it.
And stolen shamelessly from Dum Vivimus, Vivamus, the following.
Don't hate on me. I'm just... the messenger!
Later.
.
Well, yes. Stolen shamelessly from AoSHQ, but... well, if I hadn't stolen it there I would have stolen it elsewhere. Yeah. Oh, just started chuckling after a couple of things I read. Hmm, I think I will steal something else that might have you shipping your pants, laughing and enjoying the whole process. And why stop with pants?
It seems the McDouble, pound for pound, is offering one of the best, least expensive, nutritionally sound, items people with mean means can obtain. I can see why those who wish for people to be peasants, and stuck on the government dole, don't like McDonalds though. You don't have to like it but, being true, you do have to lump it.
And stolen shamelessly from Dum Vivimus, Vivamus, the following.
Don't hate on me. I'm just... the messenger!
Later.
Oh, what a hangover.
.
.
This is worse than the last one. No, not a drop last night. I've just been pushing. Well, I got to where I was going and it bit back is all. Well, and I may not have been drinking as much as I need to drink, so I'll up the hydration schedule a bit. From when I went to bed I woke before the alarm went off, if I set it to give me a little extra rest. I have been pushing my days far too long. That sleep will eventually have to be made up. On top of it my waking hours are seeing a lot of work, for me, every day, creating another deficit. Throw in dehydration, and... I am trying to pace, and my body forces me into some sort of limits, but...
As I said, I was thinking yesterday was today, so that makes a huge deal. Today is all about packing, checking lists, then loading. I may toss a couple of outfits in the wash for the trip up and back and finish those last dishes and put those away between other things. I hope to have another item or three arrive today, and maybe tomorrow. Ugh... I am sure some things aren't going to make it. If it were the things I took a risk with, by ordering late, I wouldn't be quite so perturbed. On the other hand, some things that had no right to be here are here. And I would say what arrived in a superior timely manner far outweighed the sluggards. Doesn't absolved the sluggards, at all, in any way, just... the suggesting, in a non-religious manner, that the fates, on balance were more much more kind than cruel.
I best be getting to some things. Medicines, I'd love some breakfast, but... I have to wake a bit before I can get to much. Argh! Just said that because. I should be more positive. I started out with nothing and I still have some of it. Later.
.
This is worse than the last one. No, not a drop last night. I've just been pushing. Well, I got to where I was going and it bit back is all. Well, and I may not have been drinking as much as I need to drink, so I'll up the hydration schedule a bit. From when I went to bed I woke before the alarm went off, if I set it to give me a little extra rest. I have been pushing my days far too long. That sleep will eventually have to be made up. On top of it my waking hours are seeing a lot of work, for me, every day, creating another deficit. Throw in dehydration, and... I am trying to pace, and my body forces me into some sort of limits, but...
As I said, I was thinking yesterday was today, so that makes a huge deal. Today is all about packing, checking lists, then loading. I may toss a couple of outfits in the wash for the trip up and back and finish those last dishes and put those away between other things. I hope to have another item or three arrive today, and maybe tomorrow. Ugh... I am sure some things aren't going to make it. If it were the things I took a risk with, by ordering late, I wouldn't be quite so perturbed. On the other hand, some things that had no right to be here are here. And I would say what arrived in a superior timely manner far outweighed the sluggards. Doesn't absolved the sluggards, at all, in any way, just... the suggesting, in a non-religious manner, that the fates, on balance were more much more kind than cruel.
I best be getting to some things. Medicines, I'd love some breakfast, but... I have to wake a bit before I can get to much. Argh! Just said that because. I should be more positive. I started out with nothing and I still have some of it. Later.
The good and the bad, no real ugly tongiht.
.
.
The good is I got some things done in town, albeit a bit late. If I could just get Church to... wait? :p Seriously, I... almost always miss the time. Sometimes I can tripfuck the system and make it. Usually, though, no matter my intent, I am an half hour to three hours late... if I even make it. Anyway... But getting home, after the late night and then running hot today I just couldn't get to much. I did set the Xt'er for hauling. I also checked to make sure the hex screw driver was in the kit, and it was. I honestly don't think I will end up taking the roof hauler, though that notion might change. The instructions for that indicate a small lock will work, using the two zippers as the latch. Not great, but... something. That is it. I just couldn't keep my focus. I am about to try to crash. That I only got some of my plan done is the bad. The good is I kept thinking it was Tuesday, meaning I only had one day left. I have tomorrow and Wednesday to pack.
I keep looking over the checklist and my eyes about cross. Yeah, I was just too tired tonight. And while the checklist is cool, unless you know where things are it will simply be difficult to find things. Actually I assume that will be a bit of the case. Then again, in my tent, I plan to have things out. Since the tent is more of a cot protector than a living space, with plenty of space to either side and under the cot, with even a decent number of mesh compartments above and on the sides, that shouldn't be too bad. It's getting the list filled in an orderly fashion, then making sure that all goes in somewhere, and neatly, that is the trick.
I tried to call about my friends teeth again tonight. No answer again. It was a bit later than I had intended, but... Perhaps she know who I am, and why I am calling, so don't want to answer? I may have to ask my friend for his brother's phone number. I can only help, I can't do this solo. It needs to be done.
Good night.
.
The good is I got some things done in town, albeit a bit late. If I could just get Church to... wait? :p Seriously, I... almost always miss the time. Sometimes I can tripfuck the system and make it. Usually, though, no matter my intent, I am an half hour to three hours late... if I even make it. Anyway... But getting home, after the late night and then running hot today I just couldn't get to much. I did set the Xt'er for hauling. I also checked to make sure the hex screw driver was in the kit, and it was. I honestly don't think I will end up taking the roof hauler, though that notion might change. The instructions for that indicate a small lock will work, using the two zippers as the latch. Not great, but... something. That is it. I just couldn't keep my focus. I am about to try to crash. That I only got some of my plan done is the bad. The good is I kept thinking it was Tuesday, meaning I only had one day left. I have tomorrow and Wednesday to pack.
I keep looking over the checklist and my eyes about cross. Yeah, I was just too tired tonight. And while the checklist is cool, unless you know where things are it will simply be difficult to find things. Actually I assume that will be a bit of the case. Then again, in my tent, I plan to have things out. Since the tent is more of a cot protector than a living space, with plenty of space to either side and under the cot, with even a decent number of mesh compartments above and on the sides, that shouldn't be too bad. It's getting the list filled in an orderly fashion, then making sure that all goes in somewhere, and neatly, that is the trick.
I tried to call about my friends teeth again tonight. No answer again. It was a bit later than I had intended, but... Perhaps she know who I am, and why I am calling, so don't want to answer? I may have to ask my friend for his brother's phone number. I can only help, I can't do this solo. It needs to be done.
Good night.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Sexist men make better fathers?
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.
One of the blogs I read used some such as a title. He threw in a few specious scientific studies, to produce a minor metastudy. As far as it goes and for what they are worth, the studies seem to indicate what he suggests. The thing is, as even he noted, the science is junk. Possibly correct, from little of it I saw, but junk nonetheless. Just because the science behind something is worthless does not mean there isn't some truth to be sussed from the notion. Actually, if I had to guess, the truth was ferreted into the supposed work. Like a horrid study on the sun rising in the east, true but not for the reasons a study might indicate, for example, or a solid study to start, but based on known, observable fact.
Now, the first thing that has to be clarified is sexism. What exactly is sexism? I believe for modern academia, and legal if not civil society, it is the notion that men and women are different, not equal. That is what passes for sexism. More, that this is a bad thing to believe, despite the preponderance of evidence quashing any other notion. No, they suggest, men and women are perfectly equal AND interchangeable. Essentially it is a lie we are supposed to believe because the truth is too uncomfortable for too many people, because the family hurts con-men politicians' chances and destroy the hedonist notions and availabilities, and for a host of negative other reasons right on to having something to do with God, a Truth that terrifies liars. Oddly, it isn't, for the most part, women (most women), who are the problem. Politicians who try to force the belief in equality are merely the type of people who would try to force you to believe, or at least say, that two plus two equals three. No, they don't believe either. That isn't their point.
Sexism, for my part, is knowing there is a difference, but using that to bash women, or abuse them. It doesn't matter which of several methods of sexism are used, and there are many, including claiming there is no difference (especially while mandating a false equality through the use of the force of law, i.e. at gunpoint). When I was much more libertine, I was quite happy to let "women be equal". It made it much easier to have shallow relationships with them that were, at the time and given my understandings, much more advantageous to me. I, how to put it, didn't even need to rent the cow, I simply got milk when it was ready and went on my way when it was dry. Although that didn't just abuse women, that was an abuse of myself. As a sexist, however, I believe man is more culpable. He is supposed to be responsible in these matters. I, honestly, don't expect women to make good deals with their hearts or bodies. They aren't completely incapable, but they aren't very good at it. Others abuse women by cutting them out of the opportunity for a family by imposing an impossible equality on them. That, in truth, is sexism. That last mentioned form is more disgusting than pornography. In one at least the woman gets compensated for the usury relationship. While money is morally thin, it does at least feed and clothe. Yes, whores are more beloved, if not admired, than feminists. There is hope for a whore.
Now, as to sexist men being better fathers? I actually think that is true. Sexist men, using the "modern" (not my) version, see women as having a different role, and needing to be supported in that role, namely that of mothers and wives, preferably at home. They see women as needing to be protected, even to a degree from themselves. Whatever a father says, to keep peace in his home, he knows who runs the show, ultimately. Who is guilty if there are problems that leech into long term problems or bigger problems? Who is looked at if something, almost anything, goes wrong, whether to fix it or for blame? He who takes the blame must take the wheel and plot the course.
Oh, I've seen relationships that are supposed to be equality based. Been in them. They don't work. Whether empty, short term, or barren, they fail. They can't work. A woman can't be an equal. Tell me, which of these areas are women better at than men (as groups), math?, physics?, sports?, theology?, self control?, stability?, justice?, just, exactly, where are women equal? What a woman brings, for a man who wants children, there is no equal. But it is different. Raising children, handling nutrition, being a partner, making a house a home, filling our hearts so we can keep on going, being our lover, confidant. What women are superior at is passive, often in the background, and irreplaceable. And it is wasted on, and in, a world that declares them equal.
Besides all that, as I have *cough* changed my ways, I have noted something peculiar. The women I am more interested in being around these days, good women, have zero problems with my notions. Actually, what I say, and unapologetically, is precisely what they have been waiting to hear. They have been looking for a guy who won't bandy words like a witless fool looking for a little leg. I have had women either nearly finish my sentence in their exuberance, nodding in agreement profusely, or just be gushing with pleasure. Oh, you can tell when a woman is... satisfied, pleased, with what you say. Those who disagree vehemently? Might ask a question or two, if feeling brave, but generally they just go cold then go away. Those are the types I used to date, I would know. Different song, as I say, different bird. And I like the birds I have been attracting.
.
One of the blogs I read used some such as a title. He threw in a few specious scientific studies, to produce a minor metastudy. As far as it goes and for what they are worth, the studies seem to indicate what he suggests. The thing is, as even he noted, the science is junk. Possibly correct, from little of it I saw, but junk nonetheless. Just because the science behind something is worthless does not mean there isn't some truth to be sussed from the notion. Actually, if I had to guess, the truth was ferreted into the supposed work. Like a horrid study on the sun rising in the east, true but not for the reasons a study might indicate, for example, or a solid study to start, but based on known, observable fact.
Now, the first thing that has to be clarified is sexism. What exactly is sexism? I believe for modern academia, and legal if not civil society, it is the notion that men and women are different, not equal. That is what passes for sexism. More, that this is a bad thing to believe, despite the preponderance of evidence quashing any other notion. No, they suggest, men and women are perfectly equal AND interchangeable. Essentially it is a lie we are supposed to believe because the truth is too uncomfortable for too many people, because the family hurts con-men politicians' chances and destroy the hedonist notions and availabilities, and for a host of negative other reasons right on to having something to do with God, a Truth that terrifies liars. Oddly, it isn't, for the most part, women (most women), who are the problem. Politicians who try to force the belief in equality are merely the type of people who would try to force you to believe, or at least say, that two plus two equals three. No, they don't believe either. That isn't their point.
Sexism, for my part, is knowing there is a difference, but using that to bash women, or abuse them. It doesn't matter which of several methods of sexism are used, and there are many, including claiming there is no difference (especially while mandating a false equality through the use of the force of law, i.e. at gunpoint). When I was much more libertine, I was quite happy to let "women be equal". It made it much easier to have shallow relationships with them that were, at the time and given my understandings, much more advantageous to me. I, how to put it, didn't even need to rent the cow, I simply got milk when it was ready and went on my way when it was dry. Although that didn't just abuse women, that was an abuse of myself. As a sexist, however, I believe man is more culpable. He is supposed to be responsible in these matters. I, honestly, don't expect women to make good deals with their hearts or bodies. They aren't completely incapable, but they aren't very good at it. Others abuse women by cutting them out of the opportunity for a family by imposing an impossible equality on them. That, in truth, is sexism. That last mentioned form is more disgusting than pornography. In one at least the woman gets compensated for the usury relationship. While money is morally thin, it does at least feed and clothe. Yes, whores are more beloved, if not admired, than feminists. There is hope for a whore.
Now, as to sexist men being better fathers? I actually think that is true. Sexist men, using the "modern" (not my) version, see women as having a different role, and needing to be supported in that role, namely that of mothers and wives, preferably at home. They see women as needing to be protected, even to a degree from themselves. Whatever a father says, to keep peace in his home, he knows who runs the show, ultimately. Who is guilty if there are problems that leech into long term problems or bigger problems? Who is looked at if something, almost anything, goes wrong, whether to fix it or for blame? He who takes the blame must take the wheel and plot the course.
Oh, I've seen relationships that are supposed to be equality based. Been in them. They don't work. Whether empty, short term, or barren, they fail. They can't work. A woman can't be an equal. Tell me, which of these areas are women better at than men (as groups), math?, physics?, sports?, theology?, self control?, stability?, justice?, just, exactly, where are women equal? What a woman brings, for a man who wants children, there is no equal. But it is different. Raising children, handling nutrition, being a partner, making a house a home, filling our hearts so we can keep on going, being our lover, confidant. What women are superior at is passive, often in the background, and irreplaceable. And it is wasted on, and in, a world that declares them equal.
Besides all that, as I have *cough* changed my ways, I have noted something peculiar. The women I am more interested in being around these days, good women, have zero problems with my notions. Actually, what I say, and unapologetically, is precisely what they have been waiting to hear. They have been looking for a guy who won't bandy words like a witless fool looking for a little leg. I have had women either nearly finish my sentence in their exuberance, nodding in agreement profusely, or just be gushing with pleasure. Oh, you can tell when a woman is... satisfied, pleased, with what you say. Those who disagree vehemently? Might ask a question or two, if feeling brave, but generally they just go cold then go away. Those are the types I used to date, I would know. Different song, as I say, different bird. And I like the birds I have been attracting.
Cooked, like a goose.
.
.
Oh, aye, running late, as usual. I had set it up so that I could be late and still be on time, sort of. And as it turned out that was vital. Still, if my friend hadn't called I would have been in trouble. Usually he calls earlier, it must have slipped his mind as well. In to the shop. My friend was able to get in, I was scheduled and on time. All good. I forgot to take my camera, but set up an appointment for the end of September I think. Will have to look. Oh, she, apparently, told her fiance, and they looked it up on-line, and think it sounds quite fun. Then she told me she will be marrying the 30th. I had to chuckle. And she thinks I am going on an interesting trip? Hehehe. A Caribbean cruise for a honeymoon... Yeah. Well, and I want to swap war stories. :p
After, I took him to DMV. They said his I.D. had been printed and shipped at least a month ago. Hmm. They are not going to make him redo all the paperwork, they simply flagged it for a second run. Sounds like funny business, like someone 'borrowed' that I.D., to me. A lot of that is happening these days and this government supports fraud, theft, and abuse and is infecting states with it. Then again, bureaucracies are what they are, unionized the more. Then to lunch. I bid him a good two weeks, he might have implicated something about keeping my scalp. Hmm, I still want to try to talk to his sister on the phone. I lost track later yesterday but will set a timer or something for this mid evening.
The young man who mows was here today. His face beat red, he had just finished most of the lawn, but wasn't sure about the tent. He looked as uncomfortable as I felt, so I suggested he just wait on the back yard. A can of sprite and a bit of cooling down. I showed him some of my new or different gear and the boots that arrived today. Yes, they will do, zipper and all. I showed him how to turn on the massage chair, if he is here for a bit since he liked the notion, I told him to drink a sprite if he wishes, and showed him how to have fun giving Sassy treats. On the wood floor, she will chase, slide, and then tackle those bits. You can waste a hole afternoon doing that, if she would balloon out if I did so I just toss a half dozen for her eating and playing pleasure. Cat pan a few times a week, water a high priority, and food. All set up. Oh, and I will remind them to look for packages, if anything isn't here by then. Some things just get delayed.
I did stop at the post office on my way home. A bit more was in, and more here at the house. Two more days for packages and I still don't have that vest. Ah well, if there is still hope. I ordered those boots... Thursday? I ordered the MREs Wednesday? What in the world is going on with getting a vest here in a month and a half? Really? Bleh.
I am still in good shape if I absolutely need to strip down, put on shorts, and a t-shirt. I have the air on, and a glass of cool non-sugar drink going down. I do need to cool off a bit. It was long, it was hot, I haven't slept so was quite cross... Hmm, yeah, my very bad but... Yeah, cool down, chill, do what I can, but get some sleep in tonight. I should be quite ready to do the rest of my list this evening though. Definitely after the sun starts setting and I have had a chance to cool off. Fuggetabout it right now.
Later.
.
Oh, aye, running late, as usual. I had set it up so that I could be late and still be on time, sort of. And as it turned out that was vital. Still, if my friend hadn't called I would have been in trouble. Usually he calls earlier, it must have slipped his mind as well. In to the shop. My friend was able to get in, I was scheduled and on time. All good. I forgot to take my camera, but set up an appointment for the end of September I think. Will have to look. Oh, she, apparently, told her fiance, and they looked it up on-line, and think it sounds quite fun. Then she told me she will be marrying the 30th. I had to chuckle. And she thinks I am going on an interesting trip? Hehehe. A Caribbean cruise for a honeymoon... Yeah. Well, and I want to swap war stories. :p
After, I took him to DMV. They said his I.D. had been printed and shipped at least a month ago. Hmm. They are not going to make him redo all the paperwork, they simply flagged it for a second run. Sounds like funny business, like someone 'borrowed' that I.D., to me. A lot of that is happening these days and this government supports fraud, theft, and abuse and is infecting states with it. Then again, bureaucracies are what they are, unionized the more. Then to lunch. I bid him a good two weeks, he might have implicated something about keeping my scalp. Hmm, I still want to try to talk to his sister on the phone. I lost track later yesterday but will set a timer or something for this mid evening.
The young man who mows was here today. His face beat red, he had just finished most of the lawn, but wasn't sure about the tent. He looked as uncomfortable as I felt, so I suggested he just wait on the back yard. A can of sprite and a bit of cooling down. I showed him some of my new or different gear and the boots that arrived today. Yes, they will do, zipper and all. I showed him how to turn on the massage chair, if he is here for a bit since he liked the notion, I told him to drink a sprite if he wishes, and showed him how to have fun giving Sassy treats. On the wood floor, she will chase, slide, and then tackle those bits. You can waste a hole afternoon doing that, if she would balloon out if I did so I just toss a half dozen for her eating and playing pleasure. Cat pan a few times a week, water a high priority, and food. All set up. Oh, and I will remind them to look for packages, if anything isn't here by then. Some things just get delayed.
I did stop at the post office on my way home. A bit more was in, and more here at the house. Two more days for packages and I still don't have that vest. Ah well, if there is still hope. I ordered those boots... Thursday? I ordered the MREs Wednesday? What in the world is going on with getting a vest here in a month and a half? Really? Bleh.
I am still in good shape if I absolutely need to strip down, put on shorts, and a t-shirt. I have the air on, and a glass of cool non-sugar drink going down. I do need to cool off a bit. It was long, it was hot, I haven't slept so was quite cross... Hmm, yeah, my very bad but... Yeah, cool down, chill, do what I can, but get some sleep in tonight. I should be quite ready to do the rest of my list this evening though. Definitely after the sun starts setting and I have had a chance to cool off. Fuggetabout it right now.
Later.
Way late and well wide of the target.
.
.
Oh, I did, eventually, finally, get the trash collected and out. Doing a minor cleaning of the refrigerator while I was at it. Yes, I found the French press, which needed washed, so went in with the coffee grinder with the rest of that which is soaking... the dishes I have dirtied since finishing the last load. I just couldn't sleep.
Today is going to be rough. Oh well. When I return I will do a bit more packing, look over some lists, and probably try to set the kilt up. A longer, perhaps full width of the cloth, but only cut the long length. I think it will look great with either the hiking or engineer boots. Just wool socks though, I'm not going with hose and such. Hmm, and as a last thing I may gear my vehicle for hauling, which means laying the back passenger seats down as flat as they will go. It's not tricky or difficult. Yeah, it will be a light day. Wednesday, probably, will be the day to get everything in. I dunno, I might just push it today, then take the next few days off.
First though, I best get some sleep! Good night.
.
Oh, I did, eventually, finally, get the trash collected and out. Doing a minor cleaning of the refrigerator while I was at it. Yes, I found the French press, which needed washed, so went in with the coffee grinder with the rest of that which is soaking... the dishes I have dirtied since finishing the last load. I just couldn't sleep.
Today is going to be rough. Oh well. When I return I will do a bit more packing, look over some lists, and probably try to set the kilt up. A longer, perhaps full width of the cloth, but only cut the long length. I think it will look great with either the hiking or engineer boots. Just wool socks though, I'm not going with hose and such. Hmm, and as a last thing I may gear my vehicle for hauling, which means laying the back passenger seats down as flat as they will go. It's not tricky or difficult. Yeah, it will be a light day. Wednesday, probably, will be the day to get everything in. I dunno, I might just push it today, then take the next few days off.
First though, I best get some sleep! Good night.
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