Gator Bait

I was the first one up. It was 8:45am. I made coffee and then quick work of my exercises. Bella and Jacob were up and downstairs too. It wasn’t long before Bella and I were walking Ykraps. It was noticeably cooler than the past several days, so Bella ended up underdressed for the occasion.

Upon our return we allowed Mindy to sleep. The kids played somewhat quietly. I coffee’d and surfed around the internet. Mindy got up around 10am. Afte checking my phone I saw that my Dad had called, presumably to go to breakfast with Glenn. I think Glenn forgot about making those loose plans on Thursday evening. Once awake, he eventually got a hold of dad and made arrangements for Dad to pick him up.

After Glenn left with Dad I readied for my run. Mindy made breakfast for her and I along with the kids. I checked the radar, it looked like the rain was well to our east and that it might end up clearing up after all. That made me happy. I ran along Trabue Rd. Raymond Golf course was as crowded as it has been since last fall. It was good to see so many golfers out. I had an enjoyable run under mostly sunny skies.

When I got home our breakfast was all but ready. The house smelt terrific! We all sat and ate our maple bacon and scrambled eggs together. Around 11:30 I insisted that I get busy on the year’s first ‘real’ yard work day. Jacob & Bella volunteered to help. I was happy to have their help. We began by raking all the fallen willow branches from around the shed and under the tree. There were more than plenty. We got out the 9x12 tarp to help drag them away.

About then I asked Mindy for some water and an anti-inflammatory mostly for preventive measures. At the same time I asked for her help. She soon joined us out back. Together we began raking the debris from the rear flower beds and under the deck and shrubs. While Mindy raked, I took the electric hedge trimmers to the ornamental grasses and shrubs surrounding the deck. Thirty minutes later we had two tarps full of yard debris to drag away. Just as were finished the raking the rains returned putting a kibosh on my afternoon plans. I really wanted to trim some more, rake out the front flower beds, and fertilize the lawn. I tried toughing it out for another 15-20 minutes but the rain came down even harder. By the time I went back inside it was pouring.

We were wondering just what in the heck we were going to do for the rest of the afternoon since our outdoor plans were dashed. But that wonderment didn't last. Around 1:30pm Ashley came to the door asking if Lil' Rocky could stay with us while her and Linzy went grocery shopping. We willingly agreed, but asked where the babies were. They were in the car. We asked them in, too. Soon we had all three grandchildren with us. Something about having all three of them around makes me feel whole. The only one missing was Kaileigh, who I miss dearly but was apparently out of town. We told the girls to go to the store without the kids. We'd happily watch all three. Landon slept the entire time and was no trouble at all. Rocky was so hungry he spent the better part of his time eating. Olivia needed a nap but was stil very precious. The girls weren't gone too long. They were back before I expected them to be. They visited for a spell then left for Kelly's. At my prompting, they left Rocky behind. I invited him to go grocery shopping with Bella and I. What in the hell was I thinking? I left for the grocery and Mindy left to pay her sister a visit.

Learning from Mindy, I laid out the rules before going into Wal-Mart. The kids were angels, at least compared to what could've been. We were there for almost an hour. After our shopping I dropped Lil' rocky off at ex-Kelly's along with a few grocery items for Lindsey. Bella and I headed home. We were home for another hour before the Buckeye game came on. During that time we grilled some brats and hot dogs. We had a nice little family dinner. During the Buckeye game I was cool as a cucumber, and don't let anyone tell you different. OK, maybe I got a little ansy from time to time. Bottom line the Buckeyes pulled off the magic. They defeated Georgetown 67-60. The kids went to bed after the game, although we allowed Jacob to watch the Florida vs. UCLA game from bed. He didn't last too long. Glenn arrived just after that second game started. We enjoyed a few beers & a couple of shots while watching the game. We did a shot of Goldschlager and then two buttery nipples. Mindy went to bed around 10:30pm. Glenn and tuned into Mad TV and then Saturday Night Live. And just like most any other night, that put me to sleep.

Simon Says

I was up before 5:40am. It was another absolutely gorgeous morning. We have been blessed with so much nice weather recently. Like always, I whipped out my exercises and then took Ykraps on his morning walk.

Today marked the beginning of Spring break for the kids, yet Mindy still had to go in to school to complete next year’s ordering. She dressed casually for the occasion.

Given that it was so nice I decided that I’d drive the BM’er to work. Besides, word had it that it might rain all day Saturday & Sunday. I packed tuna for the day’s lunch.

The drive into work was a pleasant one. The work day itself was painfully busy. We were fighting to stay afloat all day long. I left for my run around 12:45pm. And like many days the last couple of weeks, it was gorgeous. I could’ve run all afternoon. I returned to my office for an afternoon of fun. Mindy called mid afternoon to let me know that she was home and washing her mini-van (it really needs a bath, especially inside).

I left the office shortly after 5pm. I was eager to get home and have a weekend. Mindy was still in the driveway working on her van when I arrived home. I’m trained to think the worst when Mindy asked me how much I love her. And to day I was right. Apparently my brand new shop-vac stopped working while she was using it in her van. This didn’t please me much. I hadn’t even begun my weekend decompression process. After completing my walk with Ykraps I checked it out. She was right, it was broke – or so it seemed.

Mindy went up to nap after finishing up what she could do with her van. I spent some time digging for the owner’s manual and receipt. She got the shop-vac for my birthday, but I had only used it once over Xmas break. It still looks and smells brand new. After digging through my receipt basket, I found the manual and the receipt. Afterwards, at Jacob’s prompting, I joined him in the yard for some dodge ball. We had a blast.
After Mindy’s nap, she joined us outdoors too. Perhaps one of the funniest things I’ve seen in a long time, Bella became obsessed with chasing the geese from our back yard. Grabbing a switch form the weeping willow, anytime she see one of those rats with wings enter our yard she’d dash after it with reckless abandon. And to my surprise, they were terrified of her despite being roughly the same size. She must have done this about five times during our evening out back. I thought for sure that one of them would turn on her and flap its wings and hiss, but that never happened.

We made loose arrangements to go to Barley’s around 7:30pm. Glenn still hadn’t heard from Teresa. Ashley was already at the house to watch the kids for a couple of hours.
His plan was to join us if he didn’t hear from her. We all readied and left by 7:45pm.

Along our way to Barley’s Teresa called. Glenn convinced her to join us there. Mindy gave her directions. Barley’s had a decent crowd but about as sparsely populated as I’ve seen it on a Friday in quite some time. However, still lots of good people present. Thad & Monica, Steve, Rebecca, and Janet & lee were there. I had a firkin- Double Dog Dare IPA. Mindy had wine. Glenn waited for Teresa to arrive. Mindy called Bob Imber to let him know we were there and to come down. He eventually did after getting a hall pass from M.A. who was apparently tuckered from a day’s work. Later Rick & brother Tommy arrived. But sadly, I was just about spent. I was so tired, and so was Mindy. We left just after 10pm. Glenn made arrangements to get a ride from Teresa. Tommy was still there when we left, too, and so was Bob.

Once home I tried convincing Ashley to spend the night. She insisted on a ride home. After a couple minutes I agreed to take her home. I dropped Ashley around 10:35pm. By now the Trooper was running as poorly as it ever has. It was stalling at every stop and sputtering horribly. Great! Along my drive home it must have stalled four times. I was not pleased. To make matter worse, I had a cop behind me all the way down Hague Ave. I was more than fine having had only two beers all evening, but just the same, I was still nervous having him on my tail and my car running so poorly. I arrived home just before 11pm. Glenn was already back. Mindy was in bed. After a few minutes I found my way to bed too. As I said earlier, I was beat!

Steak Out - Honda Home

It was 5:40am before I even knew what hit me. It was time to head back to work. I felt rested and really needed to get back into my routine. I packed a lunch for Mindy and I after exercising and walking Ykraps. We squeezed in breakfast, too. Despite a forecast that called for weather less becoming than what we’d become accustom to, it ended up being yet another gorgeous day. It was a bit challenging getting caught up with everything at work but I gave it my best. Having another weekend right around the corner helped. It was warm enough to run in shorts. The temperature hovered in the mid 70’s all afternoon. Mindy picked up steaks on her way home from work. She dropped Glenn off at my place of work at 5pm. He was riding with me to pick-up Lindsey’s Honda. It was hard whipping out another $1150 for repairs but what’s a guy to do. Glenn drove the Honda to the closest gas station where I filled the tank since it was on empty. We arrived home by 5:45pm. Mindy had made arrangements with my dad to join us for dinner, too. He was slated to arrive around 6pm. He was on time. We grilled some porterhouse and ribeye. They ended up a bit over done but who’s counting? They were still mighty tasty. Glenn mentioned hearing back from Teresa, the girl he met at the funeral home. They arranged a date for Friday evening. We encouraged him to join us at Barley’s. Dad hung out until about 8pm. After Dad left & the kids were in bed, Mindy called it another early night. Glenn & I stayed up and watched Borat, again. I missed quite a lot of it on Tuesday. Unfortunately, I had a hard time staying awake yet again. I crashed around 10pm.

Good Bye

Mindy and I were up and moving by 7am to help facilitate the aggressive agenda planned for the day’s early hours. We had to be at the funeral home by 10am, but several other things had to take place ahead of time. First, Mindy had a planned meeting at school that she couldn’t miss. Then, after hurrying back home, she planned to get the kids to the sitter, pick-up Ashley & Olivia. Me, I had to run and then pick-up Lindsey from work.

I was back from my run by 8:25am, and Mindy was already back home hurrying the kids along. It was yet another beautiful sunny & warm morning. Mindy and the kids left around 8:45am. She would meet us at the funeral home around 10am.

Glenn was already up having coffee and readying for the day. Around 9am I got showered and dressed. We left the house at 9:25am. Lindsey works right around the corner. She was waiting for us in the parking lot. We arrived at the funeral home by 9:45am. Mindy was waiting in the foyer for us.

As expected, the mood was somber. The funeral service began promptly at the top of the hour. Reverend Haubrich performed the service, and he's fittingly familiar to family. He did Sheila’s father, Margie’s husband, Donnie, and Grandma Wright’s. He did a very nice job. Brother Bob delivered a touching eulogy, too. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. As the service concluded Bob, Shawn, Glennie, Jimmy, Tommy, and Charles were asked to act as pallbearers. We carried out our duty with the utmost dignity & respect.

The precession to Greenlawn Cemetery took about 15 minutes. It took us by Grandma Wright’s old home. Holding with tradition, Glenn and I honked our horn in tribute as we often do anytime we drive by the house. Gathered at the cemetery we once again performed our pallbearer duties. The graveside service was brief but emotional. We all paid our final respects. As a loving gesture, the funeral director passed out roses to those that requested. Everyone left for their cars and for a gathering at brother Bob’s. Glenn and I stayed back to witness the vault enveloping the casket and the subsequent lowering into the ground. They performed this task with precision and respect.

We left the sight with the intention of visiting Tiffany and perhaps Grandma Wright. We found mom, Charles, and Melissa already there paying their respects. We were there for about ten minutes. We left for home around noon.

Fittingly, as we drove west the sky clouded over and soon the warm sunny weather we experienced for the last five days was gone. Mindy called to tell me that Tommy was likely already at our house changing his clothes. He was. I changed clothes too. Soon, Mindy and the kids were home. We wasted little time getting ready for Bob’s. We left for Bob’s around 12:30pm.

At Bob’s we gathered for some food and family bonding. But because we were late, many were already leaving just as we were arriving. We hung out at Bob’s for about two hours. Courtney made a brief there too. We arrived home around 3:30pm. Jim picked the kids up for their usual Wednesday visit around 5pm. While they were gone we enjoyed some quiet time at home. Glenn downloaded numerous photos and made CD’s for brother Bob & I.

The rest of the evening was uneventful culminating in an early bedtime. We did watch the Idol vote off. Chris Sly said bye-bye.

Old Familiar Faces

I was up around 7:30am feeling surprisingly well for only getting about 5 hours of sleep. Again, Mindy was already up getting Jacob ready for school. By the time I began my exercises Jim was at the door to take Jacob to school. I left for my run around 8:45am. It was yet another absolutely gorgeous early spring morning. The expected high was 80 degrees! When I returned Glenn was up and Mindy was making breakfast – bacon and scrambled eggs. We enjoyed our breakfast and had a rather leisure time. But Mindy had some errands to run so our leisure time didn’t last. Mindy was headed back to the grocery for several things I had forgotten to get and that weren’t on the list. We were expecting a large gathering of family in between calling hours later this afternoon. Around noon time my mom unexpectedly showed up at the door with April – her adopted daughter of about 10 years. I was still going through house cleaning paces and Glenn I think was in the shower. We visited for a spell or until Mindy got home. After a couple minutes helping her carry everything in, I retreated to the shower. I emerged ready around 1pm and we left for the funeral home at 1:15pm. We arrived at 1:30pm after getting stopped at every possible light. Mindy was already there waiting for us, having driven separate vehicles and making most of the lights that I didn’t. As one might expect, the mood was rather somber, especially at first. We greeted as many folks as possible. Over the course of the next two hours or so several relatives, old family friends, and co-workers of Sheila’s arrived. My ex-mother-in-law even showed up. That was thoughtful, but I’ve come to expect that out of Rosemary. Despite our natural chasm, she’s a truly wonderful human being. Schoedinger’s did a pretty darn good job with Sheila. Given that she was so overcome by disease, I was very pleased - as were others. Around 3:30pm I ordered the pizzas just as I had been asked. They promised to have the 6 extra-large pies ready by 4:10pm, easily. Meanwhile, Mindy left to pick-up the kids at Grandma Sharon’s. Lindsey rode with Mindy, I think. The pies were ready when Glenn, Ashley and I arrived at Minelli’s. Everyone arrived fairly quickly at our home. Mindy had other hand to mouth foods available too, like mini-chocolate éclair’s and mini-cream puffs, along with a couple bowls of chips. The food went over well. Most folks flocked to the deck given the gorgeous afternoon weather. Time went fast. Soon it was time to head back to Schoedinger’s. This time the kids went with us. Glenn and I arrived around 6:15pm. There were several new visitors along with most of the visitors from earlier. We saw many of the Wright boy ex’s too. Tommy’s first wife, Cheryl, showed up as did Charles’ first, also named Cheryl. She didn’t dare come in, however, since the family doesn’t seem to want her around. She hung outdoors for a while. Geesh! Step-brother Shawn’s ex-wife, Cheryl, (kidding - her real name is Angie) stopped by, also. The calling hours ended somewhat fast. Soon everyone was leaving after paying their last respects. Glenn hung back and snapped a few pictures of the floral arrangements and of Sheila. We left about 8:10pm. We pulled into Kroger on our way home and purchased some Columbus Brewing Company beers – a six of their Pale Ale and the 90 Shilling Ale. At home we popped a couple of beers after I changed into my pajamas. Sometime just after Mindy went to bed Glenn and I watched Borat. It was funny, but I had an awfully hard time keeping my eyes opened. I slept through about half the movie drifting in and out. Finally about an hour and fifteen minutes into the flick I announced that I was retiring. It was only about 10:45pm.

White Castles Greetings

Diametrically opposed to our usual roles, Mindy was up before me prepping coffee and readying herself & the kids for work. I got up around 7:00am even though I didn’t really need to. Like always, I exercised and walked Ykraps. It was yet another spectacular morning. The expected high was to reach the mid 70’s. Judging by the morning, that was well within reach.

Jacob asked if he could stay with me just as they were leaving for the day. And even though I had a busy day planned (grocery, picking out a floral arrangement, & going to Home Depot), I agreed. However, he, in turn, rescinded the request. He left with Mindy.

I left for my run soon after she departed. It was a beautiful morning for a run. I was back by 8:30am. I spent the next hour searching for a sympathy arrangement online. Later, Mindy convinced me to drive to Hilltop Florists. That is what I did. Before leaving I contacted my brothers to see if they were interested in doing a combined arrangement. They were.

I left around 11am and stopped at Hilltop Florist first. They were kind and interested in serving my needs. I bought what looked like a very nice arrangement. From there I drove to Home Depot where I bought the year’s first application of fertilizer. I looked at all sorts of stuff, though. After that I drove up to Wal-Mart – Hilliard. Before starting my grocery shopping I went in the optical department and asked if they could fix my frames. They couldn’t but offered up a means of doing it myself. The young lady working there asked my last name thinking perhaps that I looked familiar. I think she thought that I was a famous movie star. J When I shared she recalled knowing Glenn from our childhood and the pool. Her name was Crystal Nelson.

I completed the grocery shopping in about an hour. I am out of practice having sacrificed this chore to Mindy. I kinda miss doing it. Just before heading home with our haul, I stopped in at Westpointe Video to look for a couple DVD’s. I bought The Departed & Borat. They have great prices – always have. Still only $14.99 each.

By the time that I unloaded the groceries and relaxed a little Mindy was home form school. The kids were with their father for their usual Manken Monday. Mindy and I used the time to clean the playroom which has been a disaster for about a month but even more so after having all the kids over yesterday. We had it sparkling after about 45 minutes. By 7pm the kids were home and we quickly switched gears. We spent a short time together before readying the kids for bed. Mindy and I hung out for a while before attempting another rather early bedtime, although I had to get up and leave for the airport around 11pm. Mindy fell asleep but I couldn’t. I got up and played on the PC for a couple of hours leading up to my departure time.

Glenn’s flight was knowingly delayed by 45 minutes out of Vegas. His arrival time changed from 11:10pm to 11:52pm. I left the house at 11:15pm. Traffic being light, I arrived at the airport baggage claim #3 at 11:42pm. Seeing that his flight had yet to land I went up to the security check point and back down to baggage claim a couple of times. I was tired and bored. On my third trip up to security I saw Glenn coming towards the area. I wasn’t long before we were on our way home.

We were both hungry so we agreed to stop at White Castle. It was almost 1am by the time we got our burgers and made it home. I let Mindy know that we were home just as she had asked. I was surprised that she got up and came downstairs. Glenn & I cracked a couple beers each. He drank a couple of the Little Kings I bought for him over Xmas. Sometime after 2am I finally gave in and went to bed. Glenn was right behind me taking the finely appointed guest room.

Surrounded by Family

I had a little trouble sleeping as many things were whirling around in my mind. I woke around 6am and checked my email in part to see if Glenn found any flight deals via Priceline. The fare that Priceline quoted was a $100 more than Expedia. Still without confirmed arrangements, it made little sense to book. I went back to bed for another couple hours.

It was quite lovely when I got up for good. It was even warmer than it was Saturday. I made quick work of my exercises and soon was outdoors walking with Ykraps. I just couldn’t believe how awesome the weather was. As one might expect, my thoughts turned to Sheila and the fact that here suffering was over. Too, I thought about my dad and how his life will be changing so dramatically over the next few months.

Back home I made & enjoyed some coffee. I called my dad to see if he had any specifics relative to the funeral services. He didn’t, but said he was expecting a call from Schoedinger’s anytime. I told him I'd check with him later & asked if he needed me to do anything. He declined.

Mindy soon was up. We enjoyed the remainder of our morning together. We talked with Ashley who decided she and Olivia wanted to come over. We left the house around noon to pick her up. We stopped by my dad’s along the way. He still didn’t have details but did have a 2:00pm appointment and assumed the funeral would be Wednesday with calling hours on Tuesday. We relayed the information to Glenn on our trek to Ashley’s.

Back home with Olivia and Ash we enjoyed their company. Mindy and Ashley decided to go shopping and asked me to stay with Olivia. I was more than happy to.
They were gone about 2 hours and arrived shortly after the kids returned from their weekend with Jim. By 3:30pm we were all playing in the back yard as the sun really heated things up. It was well into the 70’s. While I chipped golf balls out back brother Charles, Melissa, and kids showed up for an unexpected visit. They reported Tommy coming our way, too. And while we had planned on doing dinner at Mindy’s mom’s, Mindy soon called her mother to report our absence. In kind, Mindy planned a mini-cookout on the fly. We began prepping burgers, brats, chicken and hot dogs along with pasta salad.

Tommy showed up with Heather and Matthew (aka Wally) sometime around 5pm. We ate around 6pm. My dad showed up after he finished making funeral arrangements. We had a house full. Also, Glenn went ahead and made travel arrangements for home staying Monday to Monday.

We had house guests until about 8pm when everyone finally left. Mindy and I were both exhausted from the day’s events. I sent out electronic communication to my team and my boss indicating that I would be out of pocket for a few days. We hung out for a little while but soon went to bed.

Range of Emotions

I was eager to begin the weekend. The weather gods promised very good things. I could see the sun trying to break the thin veil of clouds still lingerng above. By 8:30am I completed my exercises and had our coffee brewing. Ykraps and I hit the streets. It was getting lovlier by the minute. By our return the sun busted out making a warm spring morning even better. I enjoyed a hot cup of coffee & got caught up on the headlines. Eventually I made my way out to the deck for some guitar and coffee - more of a summer ritual.

I woke Mindy around 10:00am telling her how beautiful it was outside. She soon joined me. We spent some time together on the deck soaking up the early sunshine. We didn't have all day, however. I had to run and Mindy had to ready for her 'fun' day. She had a massage scheduled at 11:30am at Penzone's and then lunch with her friend Teri. While I ran, Mindy whipped up some bacon and scrambled eggs. I am always amazed at how she can calmly apporach a deadline. I returned from my run by 10:50am. Mindy ate pretty fast since she hadn't yet made herself presentable for her massage. She left at 11:10am.

I had the rest of the morning and pretty much the whole afternoon all to myself. I chose to take care of lots of small things. I reestablished several lawn ornaments that were leaning a bit after their winter slumber, tuned and cleaned my weed wacker, swept out the garage, tinkered with the Trooper - looking for a loose vacuum hose (never found one), swept the kitchen the floor, sprayed for ants, and shopped online for garage cabinets. Mindy called to let me know that she worked out details for dinner with Pat & Lisa. They'd be meeting us at our house around 7pm - after the Buckeye game.

Mindy returned home sometime around 4pm. She shared stories from her day of fun. She got a great massage, had fun with Teri, visited old neighbors, and shopped. After sharing her stories it was time for the Buckeye game. We watched the entire first half. I swore at the TV a couple of times. The Buckeyes are good but often hard to watch because they leave a lot of points on the floor. On the other hand, unless the opposition is hitting three-pointers from long range, their defense is consistently stellar. We were up at the half, but not by much.

During the second half I became frustrated after watching us build then squander a nine point lead. Soon we were trailing by 5 with just under 12 minutes to go. I could take no more. I figured it no longer good for my health or sanity. I decided to shower for our dinner out. I did everything I could to keep the noise level to a point where I could not hear the game. I didn't want to know. After I was showered and dressed I took Ykraps on his evening walk making sure once again to drown out any sound from the TV. By the time we returned from our evening walk Mindy was down stairs talking with the kids via her cell. I decided it was time to check the score. Just as I focused on the TV they flashed the score and game highlights. The Buckeyes won by 16 points! Holy Crap! They must have got hot. It was just after 7pm and the second game was about to begin.

We were all ready to go. Now we were just waiting on Pat & Lisa to show up. I decided to pick-up my phone and call my dad to check on Sheila. The news wasn't good. Shawn answered the phone in tears. My fears were confirmed, Sheila had passed away minutes prior to my call. There was obvious struggle in his voice through our short conversation. I told him that I loved him and that I would hang up so that he/they could carry on with whatever needed to be done, but to tell my dad to call when he could. I told Mindy but she already knew. We had a quiet moment and both said a short prayer just as Pat & Lisa arrived.

We had a quick drink before heading to Courtney and Jeremy's. On our way there my dad called. Mindy talked with him while I drove. Mindy expressed our sorrow and told him that we'd be over sometime early on Sunday. Bob & M.A. were already at C & J's. We were a few minutes behind. We chatted briefly and visited with everyone. Mindy shared the news about Sheila. Just then my cell rang. It was brother Glenn calling from Washington state. I shared the news with him too. I told him to look for flights but that I had no other details on the arrangements. Shortly after our call, we all departed for Mitchell's.

Because there were eight of us, we took two vehicles. Pat & Lisa rode with us. C & J rode with Bob & M.A. After one pass around Mitchell's we decided to valet park. It was a lot easier. Our reservation was ready. It was surprisingly crowded for 8:30pm. Because we had eight in our party we had to sit at two tables, although side to side. There was an isle in between the two tables so we were in effect cut off from one another. However, we made the best of it and had a fabulous time dining together. And just like always, the steaks were terrific.

It must have been after 11:00pm when we finally left Mitchell's. We tipped the valet dude after the Trooper was hand delivered and parted ways with half of our dinner guests (Bob, M.A. & Jeremy & Courtney). Pat & Lisa rode with us. We bidded the Schultz's a farewell in the dirveway. They were as tired as us, I am sure.

Before going to bed we contacted Glenn to see what his intentions were relative to Sheila's funeral. I told him that I would check airline rates too. I called Northwest & asked about the bereavement policy/rates. Sadly, the rates we were able to find online were cheaper than their stated bereavement rates. The young lady apologized stating that with it being spring break there just weren't many options.

I went to bed after asking Glenn to shop for flights on Priceline.com. We agreed that he wouldn't purchase the flight until we had firmed the funeral arrangements. I crawled in bed around 12:30am but couldn't sleep so I got back up for an hour. Finally, come 1:30am I was tired enough to sleep.

Slathering

Blessed with gorgeous weather since the first day of spring, Friday was no exception. It was warm enough during the predawn hours to walk Ykraps without a jacket, but I wore one anyhow.

I did the morning coffee thing before beginning food prep, and just like always, we ate our breakfast together. Mindy and the kids were out the door around 7:20am.

I left for work around 7:55am very excited that it was Friday. As I would've expected, the day was very busy. We're always busy on Friday's. I called my auto repair guy around 9:15am with every intention of telling him to bag the repair. In fact, I was prepared to ask him if he wanted to buy it for a $1000. I figured I was throwing good money at bad. But I had three things I wanted to ask/clarify first. I asked him to clarify exactly what he'd be fixing and what would be new versus old. I asked what he would do if it were his. He made a convincing argument for keeping the car figuring that any car we'd buy in that price range would be susceptible to similar troubles, but at least with this one we know we'll have a new transmission and a new upper engine (valves and cam). And besides, it's spend $1100 on this repair, or that plus more for another car. The fact that this is a Honda with just over 100,000 miles is another good reason to keep it. While talking it became clear to me that the best thing to do was to do the repair. I told him to get started. I felt a sense of relief for making a decision, and I also felt it a sound one given my other options.

I shared my decision with Mindy a short time later. She supported my decision. We also exchanged loving emails since today was our one month wedding anniversary. We decided that we'd book our trip to Riviera Maya today too. She reminded me to call Pat and Lisa to follow-up on Saturday evening dinner plans. I decided to call after lunch.

I left for my run around 11:45am since I was planning on lunching with my friend Jay P. who just started back with us on Wednesday. I was partly cloudy & warm when I left. Today I didn't wear a jacket, but I did wear long pants and a long sleeved shirt. And just like it did each day since Tuesday, the sun busted out during my run heating it a bit. I had to laugh at the coincidence. It was a great run!

I was showered and back by 1pm. Jay stopped by my office right on queue. We left for Chipotle's, his favorite restaurant in the world, right away. We went to the new Chipotle's at Mill Run. It was crowded and crazy loud. I hadn't had one of their burritos in over a year. We ate fairly quickly and left after about 40 minutes. We talked about all sorts of stuff, most notably his eagerness to return to work with us.

The afternoon went fast, too. While working a number of issues, I squeezed in a call to the Shultz's home. Lisa answered. She only works 'til noon on Friday's. Hey, that's a gig I want! She thought it best for me to nail down our plans with Pat. I called Pat on his cell a few minutes later. I told him that we already had added them to our reservations at Mitchell's. He promised to check with Lisa and call us back later.
I talked with Mindy again around 4pm where we discussed visiting Sheila tonight on our way out to Barley's.

I wrapped up the many things I was working on and left the office about ten minutes early since I needed to stop at Kroger and Advanced Auto Parts. Kroger was not as crowded as it generally is after work. It might have been the leaving ten minutes early thing. I bought Mindy a dozen pink roses mixed with a bunch of add-ins. Advanced Auto Parts is directly across the lot. I stopped there next. I asked the gentleman working their if it were a fact that they will run a free computer diagnostic check on cars. It was and he did. He printed out the report and told me it appeared that my oxygen sensor might be bad, but that I should have my mechanic check it further. Homeward.

Mindy was home and the kids were already gone with Jim when I arrived. I presented her with the roses and a card. I think we walked Ykraps together but I can't be sure. We called my dad around 6:30pm to let him know that we were coming by around 7pm. He was OK with that but cautioned that she was not doing so well. We tidied up and left for dad's around 7:05pm.

Dad greeted us as we entered the house as he always does. He lead us to Sheila's room where we went in to see her by ourselves. Nothing could have prepared me for how bad she looked. I thought she looked bad Monday but today she looked really bad. It was gut wrenching. I would be surprised if she weighed 80 lbs, and she looked gone. We spent a good twenty minutes with her holding her, talking with her, and telling her that we loved her. A few different times she opened her otherwise rolled back eyes to acknowledge our presence. She could only hold that focus for a few seconds and then she'd drift off again. I felt the end was near. As she was, there seemed to be no hope of turning the proverbial corner any longer. Now, I just wanted her to be pain free and at peace. She deserves it.

We said our goodbyes one more time as we left the room. We both kissed her on her head before leaving. We went to talk with dad before heading out. He shared some of his most recent conversations he had with her along with a few others. We left around 8:00pm. We didn't need to say much to one another. We both knew as we drove away that we'd likely seen her alive for the last time. I felt a sense of peace, but I had many things to ponder.

We arrived at Barley's just after 8pm. Bob & Mary Ann were already there sitting with Courtney and Jeremy. The six of us hadn't been at Barley's together since before Xmas 2006. We had a really nice time catching up - laughing and sharing. We ordered food. I had Gates of Hell Wings and sauerkraut balls. Mindy had pulled pork and veggies. Over the course of the evening I had three beers. Josh stopped in and reminded all of us that he was playing at Mickey's Old Time on 5th avenue. We agreed to stop there before going home to check out his new band, Slather. We left Barley's around 11pm.

We arrived at Mickey's five minutes later. Josh's band was well underway. We probably stayed long enough to hear six or seven songs with a break nestled in-between. We left Mickey's around midnight. Everyone was tired, plus we had a big night planned for Saturday. Bob & M.A. headed towards home and so did we. We traveled the back streets of Grandview twisting and turning down the winding streets making our way towards Grandview Ave. Just as Mindy mentioned that I was going a little fast, and I guess I was, one of Grandview's finest pulled us over. He asked for license and registration. I was ready save for handing him last year's registration (I keep them all in a zip-loc baggie). He asked if I knew how fast I was going. I told him that I did not. He asked if I realized I was doing 38mph. I told that I didn't. He retreated to his car for a brief moment then quickly returned. He handed me my license, told me to watch my speed, and to drive safely.

We headed home with the Trooper running about as poorly as it has all week. It was stalling or wanting to stall at each light. Once home, we stayed up long enough to secure the home but pretty much went right to bed. It was long exhausting day.

Megacyllene

I slept until 5:45am and woke with a stuffy nose. My hope was that it was more fallout from sleeping with the window open and the fan on rather than the beginning of a cold. I wasted little time fooling around and got down to my morning business. I exercised, walked Ykraps, coffee’d, and got the food chain moving all before 6:45am.

Mindy asked me to leave the nuts and pineapple out of her lunch since she’s trying to further reduce her carb intake. I obliged. I made tuna salad for lunch, and made a bacon and Monterey cheese omelet for breakfast.

Mindy and the kids left around 7:20am. I went up to the shower. I left for work around 7:55am. The Trooper ran very poorly and stalled a number of times in transit. The symptoms are similar to those of two years ago when I had to have the intake manifold gasket replaced. Crap! I limped it into work. I was not in the best of moods given the status of Lindsey’s car and now mine.

I wasn’t in my office long before Dave, my auto repair guy called about the Honda. He said that given my frustration level he tried a couple things to save me big bucks last evening but netted poor results. And upon digging into it further could see that timing belt & water pump had previously been replaced and chalked that workmanship as the likely cause of the failure. He discovered that one of the valves was bent causing a loss of compression. If I wanted it fixed, this would have to be replaced. The estimate is now $1100. He understood when I told him I would have to think about it.

I talked with a buddy of mine at work that had lots of knowledge relative to auto repairs. He cautioned me against throwing good money at bad. I agreed – mostly. The trouble, of course, is what to do about Lindsey having a car. That somehow is still my problem! L

I grieved over that and my car issue all afternoon. Sure, it’s the money but more than that it’s the idea of what I’d rather do with that money. Lindsey’s still got her hands deep in the family pocket.

Run time came quickly. It was 1pm when I left. Again today it was partly cloudy & about 58 degrees when I left for my run, so I wore a jacket not wanting to be the slightest bit chilly. And once gain, the sun busted out during my run causing the temperature to soar ever higher making me sweat more than I’m comfortable with. I was hot!

After my run I enjoyed my packed tuna. Meanwhile, I continued to stew over the car dilemma. What to do-What to do? Today – nothing! I decided to sleep on the Lindsey car thing and talk to my dear wife about it once at home. The rest of the work day went as expected. I left around 5:15pm. My Trooper ran better than it did on the way in. I stopped at Advanced Auto Parts to buy some fuel treatment. I bought the best. Reading the directions carefully it says to allow tank to be close to empty before putting it in – then refuel. I have a full tank of gas. Damn! I’ll have to wait.

I arrived home around 5:45pm. Mindy and the kids weren’t home yet. Mindy stopped after school and kid puck-up to get a hair cut. I was able to get most of my chores done before they arrived home minutes later.

I forgot to mention these two bugs I saw in the house both yesterday and this morning. In addition to the cars, this was “bugging” me, too. Seeing one of anything is never a big deal but when you see two, you suspect a possible infestation. The bugs are about ¾” long. Look like a cross between a beetle and roach, but they are colored and stripped like a bee. Where in the hell did these things come from? They looked frightening! I love the internet. I simply Googled on “yellow striped beetle” and was returned a description & link to a picture. That’s it! It’s a Megacyllene, or more commonly called a locust borer or a wood beetle. They’re disguised as a bee to help ward off birds. They’re often hiding in dead wood piles, which would explain why it came from by the fireplace. Good bet they were in my load of firewood. The link went on to say that there’s little need to worry of an infestation.

Mindy warmed lasagna for me and made a couple hot dogs for herself. After that she went down to do her elliptical machine. When I finished eating I went down to play a little basketball with Jacoby. We had fun but had limited space with Bella playing on the floor and Mindy exercising. I didn't play for too long. When Mindy finished exercising she headed the kids upstairs to get a bath and ready for bed. I updated my blog. I joined in for the read & tuck. Still feeling a tad sniffly, stressed, and tired, I pulled up a few pillows and blankets in the middle of the family room floor and took a nap. I woke up around 8:30pm. After hanging out taking about our options with the Lindsey's car for an hour, it was 9:30pm. Mindy was ready for bed. I stayed up because I was now wide awake after my little nap. Besides, I wanted to catch the Buckeye basketball game which began at 10:19pm EDT. However, truth is, I had forgotten about it until Mindy reminded me. I tuned in to the early game after she went off to bed. The Buckeyes came on at 10:19pm. Right out of the shoot the Buckeyes fell behind by eleven, and pretty much by not fault of their own. Tennessee was shooting lights out three-pointers. After ten minutes of that I decided to go to bed. I was in bed by 10:45pm.

Deer Me

Today was the first full day of spring and the weather fabulous.

I woke around 5:45am and just like any other day, I brushed my teeth, peed, checked the coffee, choked down a One-A-Day, and began my exercises.

Ykraps and I were out the door just after 6am.We walked by Duke’s house instead of to the west like normal. I usually let Ykraps dictate which way we go. Duke’s rarely out this early anyhow. The weather was nice & warm - just as expected. There were stars visible, too. And just as one might expect, the birds were going crazy yet still in darkness.

Back at home I threw Ykraps his morning treat before making our coffee. Mindy didn’t want to get up but did as I placed her coffee on the night stand. I headed back downstairs to begin making our lunch and breakfast. Mindy requested no nuts and no pineapple in her fruit. I pretty much packed her the same type of salad I always pack for myself (celery, cucumber, broccoli, cauliflower, tomato). Time was moving by fast. I made fried eggs for breakfast, in part to save time.

As the sun rose it looked more and more like it was going to be another beautiful day. The day before (Tuesday) ended up about ten degrees warmer than planned. I hoped the same for today. I gave some thought to driving the BM’er but the slight threat of rain detoured such thinking.

The Trooper ran great on the way to work. I was hopeful that the new full tank of gas cleared whatever was choking the engine and causing the 'check engine' light to come on two days earlier. I arrived at the office by 8:15am. We were very busy. I didn’t hear from my car guy all morning. I told myself that I’d call after my run if he didn’t call me first.

I got very bust around run time, but managed to leave around 1pm. It was very nice, but still only about 60 degrees and partly cloudy. Half way into my run the skies cleared completely driving the temperature up even more. Suddenly, I wasburning up running in a long sleeve shirt, jacket, and with ear covers. It was 71 degrees by the time I got back to my office.

I had a voice mail from Dave my auto repair guy on both my cell and desk phone. The message was simple. Jim, please give Dave a call about the ’93 Honda. Uh-oh! I called him back right away. Turns out it wasn’t the timing belt. Instead, he said the cam shaft was broke at the pulley and missing this key thing, and the trouble was that it had worn a square hole round making it wobble. He said it could get even worse if one or more of the cylinders are bent, which often happens when the timing belt slips. He said he might be able to do it for around a $1000 dollars, but also wanted to know who had worked on this car recently replacing the water pump. He had it confused with Lindsey’s other ‘93 Honda that looked almost identical. Crap! Here we go!

I went about the rest of my afternoon like any other day. Mindy was picking Lindsey up at Grandma Sharon’s since her car’s in the shop and taking her to the bank to create her checking account. We both agreed not to share the news of the car’s prognosis until later. After all, we still wanted her to get this monumental task done.

I left work shortly after 5pm for home. Mindy and I talked as she was dropping Lindsey off at Kelly’s. Kaileigh was there, too, with her daddy so I asked Mindy to see if we can have her over next weekend to color Easter eggs. Mindy said she’d call me back once everyone was dropped off. I arrived home before Mindy. We made plans to visit El Vaquero for dinner, but only after walking Ykraps. It was a beautiful spring evening with the temperature now around 73 degrees. We left for the Vaq at 5:55pm.

We asked to be seated in the enclosed patio. I ordered something different – some pork dish. Mindy had a margarita and her usual seafood thing. We both enjoyed our meal and the atmosphere. It was a quick dinner. We left for home around 6:40pm.

We arrived home just before 6:50pm and the kids pulled up with their daddy just as we were walking in. By 7:05pm Jim was gone and the kids were enjoying a treat. It wasn’t long before Mindy urged the kids upstairs for bed. While they readied for bed I worked on my blog some more. I stopped and joined in for the tuck around 7:30pm. For the next hour I did more blog related stuff. I correlated all posted pix from my blog onto Picasso, a web based photo album, and updated my blog profile, which until today still reflected my singleness and was 1-1/2 years outdated. Mindy headed to bed between 8-8:30pm. She was even too tired to stay up and watch Idol.

I played online a while before watching Idol. I read a story on the Star Tribune's webpage about a Wisconsin guy that was placed on probation for having "sexual contact" with a dead deer. And reading on, I learned that this wasn't his first offense. His first was two years ago when he shot and killed a horse with the intention of havng sex with it. You have to wonder what this fella was thinking. Could he really have a penchant for these four legged beasts? Do you suppose he's thinking, "hey, looky there. I think she likes me. She's looking at me, too. I kinda like the way she holds her mouth. Daggone, I just can't get over her. I guess I'll shoot her first,though, so she doesn't put up a fight."
http://www.startribune.com/462/story/1070525.html

Idol results are in: Stephanie, I think, was the young lady who was eliminated tonight. After Idol I sat on the sofa and watched the follow-up comedy show, 'Til Death. It was surprisingly funny. I got sleepy come 10pm but had a hard time mustering the energy to go to bed. At about 10:40pm I did it!

Spring 2007

Tuesday was the first day of spring and the weather responded accordingly. Sunny skies and warming temps – right on queue. I was out of bed late by design but not enough to rock my routine.

I did what I usually do each morning, nothing out of the ordinary. Mindy & the kids departed at 7:20am like always and I hit the shower. I left for work around 7:45am. My Trooper was running much better today. The Engine light went out on its own.

Work was fine. I left for my run a little later than usual. It was 1pm by the time I hit the gym. It was about 50 degrees when I left for my run. And while spring didn’t officially arrive until 7pm, I celebrated with the sun Tuesday afternoon. I took notice of its position well overhead and the ever increasing warmth from its more direct rays.

I anticipated a call from my auto mechanic regarding Lindsey’s Honda but never did hear from him. He did, however say that it might take until Wednesday. And from my perspective, no call meant no new unforeseen troubles. I decided not to chase him down.

I left for home late. I was at work until about 5:30pm. Mindy made hot wings for dinner. This seemed like an unusual evening in that we had no extra curricular duties planned. Instead, for the first time in a long while, we had a normal family dinner night.

After dinner I updated my blog and spent a good hour or two messing with the new customization tools available for Blogger. I also took notice of a couple recent comments from a reader. I typically don’t pay attention to comments since they’re more often than not spam. After fooling with my blog we watched pieces and parts of American Idol. As usual, it was entertaining. Went to bed at 10pm.

Pinch Me

Wahoo! The final full day of winter has arrived. And like many days over the past couple of weeks, I slept past 6am. I didn’t wake until 6:10am. Even still, I chose not to rush for loathing the very idea of it. Besides, I recognize ‘time’ for what it is – an approximation – a gauge of sorts to keep us inbetween the lines, and as far as I could tell, I was in line! So, instead of rushing and worrying I just got busy with my routine.

Soon Ykraps and I were walking the streets contemplating the coming of spring. Today, unfortunately, promised to be a raw, rainy day with afternoon temperatures struggling to clear the mid 30’s, although the forecast calls for a slight warming late afternoon/evening. Mindy was already up and in the shower when we returned from our walk. It was after 6:30am. I delivered her coffee and placed it on her lingerie dresser. I checked email and read the Daily OM before getting started with breakfast and lunch.

Mindy asked that I only pack her fruit and nuts. I honored her wish. It was after 7:10am by the time I had breakfast ready for our consumption. We ate quickly before Mindy whisked the kids off to school & the sitter’s. I headed for the shower.

I was all ready to leave for work by 8:00am. It began to rain during the last half hour making an already gray day even uglier. I arrived to work by 8:20am. It was raw and windy walking in from the Trooper. I guess my Trooper would enjoy only one day of shinola. Oh well!

Work wasn’t too bad, especially for a Monday. I monitored the weather. It began raining heavily mid-morning and the temperature was stuck around 33 degrees. Lucky for me, the rain let up just a little as I readied for a run, but it never fully stopped. I ran in the rain. I was well prepared for the elements and was quite comfortable.

The afternoon brought with it brightening skies and slightly warmer temps. I was busy all afternoon. Where’d the time go? I got a VM from my auto repair guy stating that they picked up the Honda from Kelly’s and that the trouble appeared to be the timing belt. To do the timing belt required several other tasks too and the estimate was $950 with tax. OUCH! I told him to get started and that I was certain Lindsey would come up with the money. :)

Also, my boss approved my vacation request and I successfully traded an on-call, so it now seems that our trip to Riviera Maya is a go! Should be nice - nice!

Mindy and I talked late afternoon. We made arrangements to visit my step mom after work. Jim would bring the kids home at 6:45pm-ish.
Mindy walked Ykraps so that we could leave as soon as I pulled up. I tooted the horn and she came a runnin’! We were at my dad’s in minutes. Sheila and my dad were both sleeping. We visited first with Aunt Margie, Dodie, Shawn, and Kelly, who were all gathered in the living room. After a few minutes we went on in to see Sheila. Her breathing was noticeably shallow 7 she remained sound asleep. My dad, reportedly, has pretty much stayed with her every second of the day wanting to be there for her regardless.

On a lighter note, Dodie put in a VHS tape of her son Travis doing an Elvis impression at a school talent show. It was very entertaining and brought joy to all. We didn’t stay too long. We left for home by 6:25pm.

As soon as we arrived home Mindy got out the leftover lasagna and warmed two pieces. It was again very delicious. Jim dropped the kids between 645 & 700pm. We were just finishing dinner clean-up. After chatting a bit with the kids Mindy urged them upstairs to ready for bed. I updated my blog or at least got started. I went up & joined the kids and Mindy for the read and tuck. Jacob read us an entire story only getting stuck on one or two “big boy’ words. It’s truly amazing how well he’s reading after such a short amount of time (September to March).

After the tuck we returned downstairs where I finished updating my blog and posting pictures from the weekend. Mindy was in the living room talking with me at the same time. We discussed the logistics of our call to Lindsey and how we might use repairing her car as leverage to finally get her to use online banking and bill pay. Mindy made the call. She’s much more patient than I. After that call we called my mom to discuss her doctor’s appointment from this afternoon. She met with a surgeon to discuss options in dealing with a bulging and herniated disc. I sent about eight questions with brother Tommy in hopes of getting some meaningful answers since my mom never seems to have any ‘real’ information after her appointments. The plan is to do therapy for 3-4 weeks and then schedule the surgery unless it miraculously resolves her pain. Mom and Tommy visited Sheila after her appointment. I was happy to learn that she did so.

Mindy went to bed around 9pm. I stayed up reading until 1030pm. I finished my book, The Intention Experiment.

Wash the Car & Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nudged by a ring from my Blackberry, I was up a little after 7am dealing with work related issues. And even though I laid back down for a spell, I used that as my queue to get up and get moving. As I left the room, Mindy asked that I wake her by 9am. I was happy to see a dapple of sunshine out the window as I made my way downstairs. Sunshine always makes my morning brighter! :)

I felt pretty darn good as I got cracking on making coffee & exercising. Bella, uncharacteristically, joined me downstairs through my exercises and decided to walk Ykraps with me. Despite it being sunny, there was a brisk chill in the morning air, but we were bundled well.

After our return I made a cup of coffee, checked email and began dealing with work. I stayed at it until everything was under control. Mindy was up a little after 9am and decided to forego church for the kids sake. Instead, we’d use the day for their recuperation.

In preparing for my run, I decided to wear an older running shirt that doesn’t hold so tightly around my neckline to avoid irritating my rash. Too, I wondered if I had somehow gotten fiberglass insulation particles in my clothes when doing the shelf project last week, which would explain the rash around my neckline. Thinking back, that’s when it started.

I ran along Trabue again today and took special note of the vehicles at my dad’s as I passed by. As I turned back into the subdivision brother Shawn drove by and abruptly stopped when he realized it was me running along the road. We chatted briefly. He gave me the latest update on Sheila’s condition. She apparently had a rough night but was dramatically better this AM. We both went our own way after our brief encounter.

Back home Mindy was heating up the breakfast burrito makings and asked if I wanted her to prep one for me. I opted out. I’d do my own. After we finished breakfast I spent another hour or so addressing work related issues. Some time around 11am Lindsey phoned telling me about the perils of her Honda. Apparently it is broken down at a friend’s and needs towed. Her mother recommended that she call me. J I told her to call me back with the address so that I could go and look at it. A friend told her it seemed to be the alternator but that didn’t sound right to me. As the day closed in on noon I showered and readied myself for a trip to Lowes. Lindsey never did call me back. On the way I decided to wash the Trooper at the do-it-yourself carwash. I hadn’t given her a bath all winter. The wheels were really dirty, so I took the time to use the foamy scrub brush. Ten minutes & $3 later I had her squeaky clean.

I returned home before heading on to Lowes because I forgot to take the empty propane cylinder. I didn’t bother going in the house. I simply grabbed the empty propane tank form the deck and departed.

I exchanged my propane tank first then took my time walking most of the aisles at Lowes. I enjoy strolling along tinkering with various project ideas. I looked at retractable screen doors but for now decided that the kids would tear one of those up in short order. I checked out attic ladders (stairs), too. That’s a good option for additional storage space in our garage. I’d have to put down plywood, install the ladder and a light. It looks like about a $200 project. Hmmm? A place to put the rest of Mindy’s Xmas decorations!

I closed out my tour of Lowes by checking out new patio furniture. Between gas grills and patio sets, it’s getting a little out of control. One can easily spend more on a gas grill and patio set than one spends on a kitchen table and stove. They have $600 grills & $1200 patio sets. That’s ridiculous! I left Lowes for home.

Home around 1pm I installed the propane tank before even going in the house. Mindy and the kids were upstairs and didn’t seem to realize that I was home. I tested the grill. It lit and burned fine. Mindy finally came down all showered and dressed. We discussed the plan for getting the lasagna to my dad’s. We agreed that Mindy would take it, and I would stay home with the kids. Mindy left sometime before 2pm.

While Mindy was away the kids and I played around the house. Jacob was markedly better than he’s been for the last week. He’s back to his irritating ways! We chased and shot the geese in our back yard a number of times. Bella’s trained to alert us anytime she sees the filthy critters milling about in our yard. Also, Bella and I made a batch of chocolate chip cookies together. I allowed her to take a very active role in the process. That's not always an easy thing for me. It went well and Bella was a good listener and an excellent co-baker.

Mindy returned after about an hour. She said there was a full house at my dad’s, and that Sheila was doing much better today. She reportedly even tried our lasagna!

Mindy was once again on the move. She chose to visit her mother and deliver the soda she’d bought for her the day before. She decided to take our wedding photos too. Last minute the kids asked to go along. She asked if I wanted to go too, but I declined thinking instead that I would catch a nap and stay on top of a couple work related issues I was roped into.

They were gone about an hour and returned just before 5pm. It turns out, I worked the entire time. To Mindy’s surprise, they were having Sunday dinner after all, although according to Mindy, it was an abbreviated event with many family members absent. Meanwhile, Mindy got dinner started at our home. We were having leftover lasagna, which I was more than happy to have. It always tastes better on day two. After dinner I mustered the courage to call Lindsey back. She told me that her mother had the car towed to her house and that it was now diagnosed with a bad timing belt. Great! I decided to drive over to Kelly’s to take a look and see for myself since I’d most likely be the one arranging and possibly even paying for the repair.


There I tried starting the car. Instead of engaging the engine like normal, the starter just wined like an airplane engine. To be sure, I tried jumper cables but that netted similar results. There was no engine compression whatsoever. The timing belt was likely the cause. Ashley came out with Olivia only briefly. I gave both a hug and kiss before leaving for home.

I found myself involved with work related matters until 9:30pm. However, it wasn’t like I was glued to my laptop 100% of the time. Mindy and I enjoyed some quiet time after the kids were asleep, too. We went to bed together but I eventually got up to do some reading after finding it difficult to fall asleep when I wasn’t really tired.

Lepper - icon

st patty's day

Both Mindy and I took a couple Advil around 8:30am. I stayed in bed until almost 9:00am. Mindy chose to sleep even longer. I was careful not to wake Ash & Olivia, who I heard up a couple of times through the night. I did my exercises in the living room. When I went for my weights I saw that Ashley was already awake. Before checking in with work I finished all of my morning routine stuff – exercise, vitamin, coffee making, walking Ykraps, and running. I did check my Blackberry, however. Things seemed quiet.

Mindy got up around 10am. Just before I left for a run she decided to make breakfast burritos with Chirizo sausage. I took the Trabue Rd route and initially battled a stiff cold breeze out of the north. Traffic was light – as expected – and posed little trouble. I returned home feeling fantastic after what was an invigorating run.

My timing was perfect. The breakfast burritos were all but ready. I stripped out of my running clothes and once again my running shirt seemed to aggravate the rash on my neck. It now appeared like a giant welt and itched like crazy. I looked like a lepper. We ate burritos & enjoyed more coffee.

After breakfast I called my dads at Mindy’s prompting to arrange our visit. Ashley wanted to visit too. Aunt Margie answered the phone and told me that my dad would have to call back since he was busy talking with the nurse. An hour passed and we hadn’t heard back. Ashley wanted to go home if we weren’t going to visit Sheila. I called back. My dad said I was interrupting but explained the goings on and welcomed us over. He explained that a minister was coming over to baptize Sheila at her request and they welcomed the entire family. We hurried to get ready and Mindy and I headed over. Ashley stayed back with the kids. She’d go back later with Mindy.

We arrived before the minister and quickly went in to visit with Sheila. We were alone with her for about five minutes. It was very difficult, especially at first seeing her in such condition. I tried to be strong. The nurse came in and explained some things to us. She said that she was “going through the initial processes of dying”. I wasn’t so sure. Still, she looked pretty bad. Mindy, the minister and I prayed with Sheila.

After our visit we chatted with brother Bobby and dad. Marie and Brenda spent time with Sheila. We were all a little disappointed with the sisters when they came out of the room and asked the nurse if they could allow Sheila cigarette. The nurse, I could tell, was appalled at even the thought. She explained that it would literally kill her. I was embarrassed that they even asked. They said Sheila requested as much.

We hung until the minister arrived and for some reason, they chose the ceremony to be a private one. Mindy and I left after about an hour to go home. Soon, Ashley and Mindy would return to visit with Olivia. I’d be staying home with the kids.

In fear of scaring Ashley away, we didn’t give her much information about Sheila’s condition. I wanted her to visit. Word has it that she was a bit taken back, but stoic in her presence. Sheila acknowledged her being there and even mustered a smile for Olivia. The kids and I played. Jacob was showing major signs of recuperating form his week long illness. Hat figures, just after contacting brother Craig for an antibiotic. He’s shown signs of getting better a couple of times this week, however. So, probably still a good idea to pump him full of the meds.

The Buckeye game was on the tube. Jacob and I watched the second half together in disgust. They looked pathetic at times and were down by 9 with under three minutes remaining. A couple lucky breaks later the Buckeyes had the ball with 4 seconds left while launching a long three pointer to tie. Goal! The game went to overtime where the Buckeyes dominated play and won by seven. Unbelievable!

Mindy dropped Ashley & Olivia at home and returned to pick-up the peanut to go grocery shopping. They were gone two hours running other errands, too. Jacob and I stayed home and watched basketball and stuff. We were planning to make lasagna for dinner, although our dinner guest, Rene, called earlier and cancelled her plans to join us. It would be just Mindy and I. Mindy & Bella were home by 5:15pm. Mindy reported that Bella was a “pill” in the store throwing a little fit over not getting certain treats. Can you say beating!!!

I had just started the lasagna when they arrived. Mindy put all the groceries away while I did the initial prep. Some time around 6 pm we called Tommy after remembering him saying that he’d either meet us at Sheila’s or stop over after. It turns out that he was at dad’s when we called. Apparently Shawn, Charles, and others were there, too. He said that Sheila wasn’t doing well and in extreme pain. Enough pain that they had to page a nurse to come in and assist. Tommy, Heather and baby Matthew (aka Wally) would be over later for dinner.

We decided to make two trays of lasagna – one for us and another for dad and company. We figured they could use some good food. Mindy bought double the makings. We had one in the oven by 6:30 and the other right after that one came out. Tommy and Heather arrived around 7:00pm.We hadn’t seen Wally since the day he was born. He’s cute. I guess I can see a little of Tommy in him. And he’s definitely got the “Tommy” eye thing going on (see pic). Tommy and Mindy enjoyed a glass of wine. I enjoyed a few Honey Raspberry Ales. We did a shot of Goldschlager, too. Heather, of course, didn’t drink. She’s nursing. Tommy & Heather stayed until almost 10:30pm.

Once T & H were gone I chemicaled the hot tub. A good soaking, I surmised, would feel awesome and help heal the rash on my neck. We weren't in the hot tub but about two minutes when we both heard a very loud Bella scream for her momma. It was an awful scream! Mindy leaped naked from the tub in pursuit of her youngest. While Mindy tended to the crying children, I continued tubbing. Eventually, Mindy came to the door and told me she was staying in. Apparently Jacob, thinking we had left him, called his daddy and was crying profusely. They were both terrified! After the kids were calm, Mindy and I went to bed. We were both tired and fell asleep somewhat quickly.